I can feel you swallowing, [says Atem, who, honestly, is taking all of this in like dry, cracked soil takes in the first few drops of rain. The sight, sound, feel of it disappears into Atem's mind and memory, pulled into him with attention that passes beyond attentiveness and into greed.] And your pulse. I can't hear it, like I can as a vampire...but I don't need to, as long as you let me touch you, right?

[Atem holds them there for a moment, feeling the fluttering heartbeat. He doesn't really like the idea of using Komaeda as a thing and not a person, but he good as has his answer...maybe he'll dig into it later. For now, though, he has to respect the rules....]

Okay. You're right -- it's your turn!

[His hand moves to let go, but not in any hurry; Atem's fingers trail down Komaeda's throat and collarbone before they finally break contact.]