Astonishment ran through Mojave's face, jaw going slack for a moment as almost comical surprise overtook his expression. He could feel his heartbeat in his ears, searching Rancor for some sign of insincerity or sarcasm- this sudden shift from his forceful rejection of Mojave to an indirect confession had taken him completely off guard. To be honest, Mojave couldn't get any more surprised than he was now; the snow could evaporate around them instantly, and Mojave wouldn't bat an eye.

Coughing, Mojave forced himself to swallow, not taking his eyes off his Rancor. He was being serious!? That's, ah, Still standing where they'd been together moments prior, Mojave sat down, swallowing again. A lot to take in. You came back to... propose to... me? His brows were raised, his tone as uncertain as Rancor's energy was. You just- just got done calling me a 'freak of nature,' What would have been confused anger instead became butterflies in his stomach, the fire putting in all the effort of saving this interaction. But... are you saying you feel the same way? A smidge of hope dared make its way back into his voice, tail starting to wag behind him.

I don't think you ruined my life at all, Mojave continued after a long pause. I didn't think you... Mojave hesitantly put a paw forward, not quite shifting his weight onto it or leaning forward so as not to scare Rancor off. He had to stop again, trying to figure out the best way to word it.

A half-lie, perhaps. It doesn't necessarily make you GAY, Mojave said, watching for a reaction. If it's me you're talking about, those are the same sentiments I wanted to tell you. It... wasn't the fire talking, at least, not fully. Mojave glanced over at it as he spoke, feeling warm all over, like he could melt into the floor and be happy there. Rancor did care about him..! Even if it was in his weird, stuck-up, Rancor way.

I'm sorry if I freaked you out. Mojave forced himself to pull his paw back. Maybe I was coming onto you too suddenly. I think, if you don't mind me saying, an ear flicked as he tried to keep his composure despite the conflicting mess he'd become internally. This is another part of your past you should let go. You know how you said I made you rethink being with your pack? And the life it entailed? I do think this... um, hate, of yours, is a part of that.

Mojave gave Rancor his space fully, quieting down and forcing his attention elsewhere, turning to look back into the fire. Mentally, though, he was cheering. Rancor wanted to PROPOSE? To HIM? Wanted to KISS HIM? Was this just internalized hate? He couldn't stop the excited wagging of his tail now, and his expression was cracking a little.