Atticus held his breath for a moment then let it go softly, seeking calm. Finding peace enough to voice his desire, his request, seemed so much harder than anything he had done in the past.<br/><br/>When he felt he could talk without rushing it all out, he said, “You know I have been celibate these past months, all the time since you acquired me...?” He was unsure Master Ryan was aware of it, though the man had an uncanny ability of knowing all that happened under the roof of the Teahouse.<br/><br/>“...But recently I have been... ah,<em>suffering</em>. And I do not believe quenching that hunger would be the chore it once was.”<br/><br/>He returned his gaze to Master Ryan. “I desire,” he whispered. It was so alien to him, he wasn’t sure what to do.<br/>