[ it’s overwhelming, hearing the ocean and feeling like they’re drifting on the sea, lost together. koby is warm and solid against his chest, the scent of his shampoo and soap musky and soft, a smell as familiar to him as wax and wood and salt. he yearns for the sea in a way that makes his heart ache miserably, but the simple joy of feeling it all soothes the ache.

he presses his lips against his hair, breathing him in and laughing a little, throat thick with emotion. ]

It feels like home, yeah.

[ he listens on his own for a long moment, eyes closed and arms wrapped tightly around the slight frame in his lap. and then, after a beat: ]

Can we listen together? Or do I need these things to hear?

[ he takes the headphones off with one hand, the sound faint but present echoing in the quiet between them. there's a little noise out by the shore, some people sunbathing or chattering. but this far out he can feel nothing but the cool breeze and the gentle rock of the boat. ]

I want to hear it with you, even if you're just a marine. [ a smile against his hair, his voice soft, fingers petting his side where he holds him, gentle and nearly possessive. protective, even, wanting him close and calm, wanting koby to share the sea with him. ]

If not, we'll have to find a way. I want to feel the sun on my back, hear the waves and hold you here a little while longer. If you don't mind.

[ he huffs a little, emotional still. ] Thank you, Koby. For this gift.