[Vrenille's not going to pretend for a minute that he doesn't appreciate that sound Zoro makes, subtle though it might be. And he doesn't mind letting that be known either, because here's the thing: with anything sexual, as soon as a second person is involved, an element of risk is introduced.

It's a craps shoot, ultimately, especially on a first encounter. One can maximise their odds in any number of ways, but no matter who's topping or bottoming or domming or subbing, it's always impossible to be sure in advance whether your partner will satisfy or disappoint (or frustrate, or embarrass, or hurt you). And some guys don't like that. Everyone has their own appetite for risk with sex just like anything.

So that watchful look Zoro is giving him? Vrenille's not phased; he's not even particularly surprised. What he is is very well practiced at handling sexual risk. And what experience has taught him is that there's a lot of value in taking the step to make himself vulnerable first.

He does it now simply by letting his teeth tug the edge of his lower lip, letting the expression in his eyes shift a degree closer to want, and handing Zoro the power to turn him down, shut him down, rebuff the advance.]

You ever do it with someone? Matching each other. Leading each other. Finding a rhythm, and telling 'em when to wait, when to go?