He wasn't so sure what was shocking about being flattered that someone he respected and had been friends with happened to like him beyond friendship. It seemed the ultimate compliment, though he supposed that most people would be weirded out about it. He wasn't and that was all that mattered to him. In some ways, he admitted curiosity because he was now thinking about it. Steve had the way of changing his perceptions, challenging his ideas of the world and how people dealt with other people.

"Because I'm obviously attractive enough to grab your attention that way," he said as he shifted his arms and folded them behind his head, looking utterly relaxed even about the topic. Cool and calm had always been his mantra. "It's a great compliment, Steve."

Well, as long as Steve realized that people didn't consider the attraction of two men normal, he was fine. He would protect that as much as he liked to think he kept Steve at least a little out of trouble. "You can trust me with anything," he said firmly, the teasing nature dropping away utterly. "Nothing you say will turn me against you. We're to the end, my friend."