[Essek brushes some of the loose hair that hang heavy in his face to the side, his gaze traveling to Caleb for but a moment before he averts it once more. But in that moment, he sees something in Caleb's face-- perhaps the way he jerks his gaze away from Essek seems terse, but he sees more in it. He sees the blown pupils and the self firmness of his shifted gaze.. as if holding himself back.

Perhaps.. even if he was no longer romantically interested in Essek, he was still physically attracted. They had kissed a couple times now, Caleb had even initiated--

It didn't mean there was any hope romantically, he would not fool himself since Caleb had quite clearly rejected him, but.. while he hates to think of Bren the man's notion of a contract of convenience might be plausible if Caleb is attracted to him. While it was a new and altogether overwhelming sensation, Essek is very attracted to Caleb-- romantically and sexually -- so it would be possible.. It would benefit them both and Essek could perhaps work this attraction out of his system. (Or doom himself further.)

No, he was thinking too deeply on something from a simple look and a couple stolen kisses. He can feel the shame of his assumptions flush heavy on his neck. Just because there was attraction did not necessarily denote a desire to act on it.]

I feared as much.. in fact I did not partake in any of the refreshments for that very reason. [That and the graduation cake got to him the night before.] I cannot help but speculate that.. ah, this is a ploy to generate significant thumos after the last month.

[People were punished for making Thumos, so many people did not.]