It was almost as though Rancor were trying to make the situation worse, as though he wanted to leave Mojave confused and uncertain. Because he what? Mojave was bewildered internally, but expressed it as little as he could manage. He didn't need to make things any more awkward than he'd already made them, lest he make the negative emotions within him mutual ones. Mojave merely did as he was told; unable to suppress a small look of surprise when Rancor suddenly jerked away. Nonetheless, Mojave laid his paws into him now, working at the knots and tense muscles.

Oh goodness. This proximity, this contact, none of it was helping Mojave out as he leaned on Rancor. His thoughts were running wild again, and the aching in his heart grew worse. Oh, he'd fallen for the worst guy, a feeling of regret crawling down his spine now. Until, of course, the swimmer had to go and open his mouth again- at first, Mojave just listened, rubbing firm circles into Rancor's shoulders where he felt tension. It was when Rancor said that it was him who'd gotten him to swim away that he hesitated slightly, both internally and in his massage. So... Rancor did value him? Even if a little bit? Even if he now-

Right. Rancor was waiting. Mojave blinked a few times, nodding quietly and moving down with his paws. The motions resumed, and his silence continued, allowing Rancor to speak. He had asked him to talk about himself earlier, after all. In his pause, Mojave began to reply, secretly hoping that this meant something, It just sounded intense, rigid. I couldn't see you wanting to do something wild, I just.. you seemed a little lost in tradition. I had to follow you around to get you to even talk at all, and... Mojave trailed off, putting a little more force behind his paws as he did. What a slippery slope it was for him to rant; He had definitely been about to say something stupid again. Something dumb about their connection or Rancor's face or how nice it felt to be so close to him.

Of course, the rollercoaster was still far from over. Mojave paused again, staring at Rancor. What? Didn't you just- when I said-? Mojave didn't stop in his actions for long, but damn, he was losing his grip mentally.
I don't think it's... gay to say you took my advice... You're right, it's probably just the fire. Uhm. But if it weren't...? Mojave asked hesitantly, still putting work into Rancor's back. E-either way, something's wrong, I think I'll follow you for a bit.. if you don't mind. Mojave glanced to the fire again, himself. Whatever was in there was definitely suspicious...