The Name's Datta

"I can't leave your side ever. So I would have to follow you if you went anywhere alone."

"...I don't think we can ever be friends," said Benoit honestly.

Charlie smiled.

"But we're partners, and that's what counts."

"...I really should ask for a replacement," he said thoughtfully, frowning. "This isn't going to work--it's not fair to either of us."

Charlie gave him a rather menacing look.

"No. It will work."

He shook his head.

"No, no...I like to keep to myself too much, and you want someone far more gregarious and prone to closeness. I'm not your man, Charlie."

"But I've already bonded to you."

"You're not an animal--I'm sure you'll manage."

He looked heartbroken once more. Except, it was more genuine this time.

"...I don't want to leave you."

Benoit sighed.

"But you want more than I'm willing to put into this relationship."

"It's fine, really. You don't have to do anything."

"If you're sure," he said, shrugging. "But I know what I expect from you, and that is a certain amount of space--are we understood?"

"Is it okay if I'm watching while you don't know?"

"No. That is absolutely not okay and I will call the police if I ever discover it happening." He crossed his arms firmly.

"Then you'll never find out." He replied cheerily.

"How about you just promise it won't happen?"

He sighed.

"Yes, okay."

"Good. Now, if that's all, I bid you goodnight," he said, heading for the stairs. "Wake me up if you need anything, I suppose."

"Nighty-night! Sleep well!" He called happily.

"...You too," he called back after some hesitation.

-x-

The next morning, Benoit sleepily rolled over in bed to turn off his alarm; he didn't want to get up. His bed was so warm and comfy this morning...

Mainly because, as promised, Charlie had come and snuggled with him during the night. He had told himself he wasn't going to, but he couldn't resist.

Still half asleep, Benoit snuggled back underneath the blankets, scooting closer toward the source of the warm.

He gave Benoit a warm squeeze in return.

His eyes opened wide as he quickly backtracked through all the events of the night before in his mind; none of them had involved a successful date with a lady friend.

He yanked away the blankets, revealing Charlie.

"What the devil are you doing?!!"

Charlie refused to let go of him. He yawned sleepily, still snuggled against his warm chest.

"Did you sleep well~?"