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I’m trying to post things a bit more freely, even when it’s not a big illustration or anything like that…!

And I really wanted to share this panel haha.

A little anecdote: I did notice that the top panel I had already shared on Instagram got a lot of attention, because people thought Tera and the Boy’s foreheads were touching, which actually wasn’t my intention at all hahaha. But I really liked that interpretation, so I kind of leaned into it 😬😊 It does make the moment feel very intimate and connected.

Personally, I was mostly focused on the Boy’s hand running along Tera’s neck and jaw in that scene, which is already a lot in my opinion. You’ll notice it when you read the next pages.

So this sudden closeness is actually completely unexpected and improvised, but I like it a lot haha.

THE INTENSITY -

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Comments

Cola De Zorro

OMG I CAN'T 😭😭😭😭💜💜💜

darkqueen

OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG

moose

Och it punches me right in the heart (T.T)b Beautiful!

The Movie Buff

Better than legoshi and haru yep I said it

Elanor

I don't think I've ever opened a notification so quickly, I swear, I woke up like cats do when they hear kibble. I don't know if I can make it to the end of the month. Of course, sharing these pictures knowing we'll have to wait another TWO WEEKS...you're cruel..There's too much

logan

I so didn't notice the forheads touching ar first I was too locked into the boys expression and his hand on tears throat. My heart feels fit to burst.

Soso

I love it! How sweet! 🥰 I did think their foreheads were touching; the way the boy’s hand touches his neck is, I’d say, lovely. The next few pages are going to be even more intense and I can’t wait !! I think it’s great that you’re posting more often; even if you think they’re just little things, it’s always a real treat for your followers (yes, I’m speaking on behalf of all of us 😂) You mentioned in one of your previous posts that Tera was going to do something poetic but true to his character; I can’t wait to see what it is 🤗👀

Elanor

Of course, Tera is a real softie.💙

Elanor

this chapter will beat the stars chapter hands down

Claire

They've been getting so much closer lately, that was my first thought when I saw that illustration, before I even read your text! I love it, the tenderness, the slow building of their relationship, whatever form it might take. Aaaaah 💝🤌

Happine

🫠🫠🫠

Sofija Leron

This has me melting like ice cream on a hot summers day 🥰

Elanor

Ferb, I know what we're doing today. We'll reread everything. Again.

Mellowcat

Foreheads, fingertips, necks and jaws... a blush and soft chuckle... What a promise. I never got that little prank-snippet of yours for april fools joke out of my head ... you know... from way back then, where Tera was behind the Boy, going for the back of his neck. That already left an impression, but this... this will be so much more. This IS already so much more, after all what they have been through and what they became to each other. This is a way of communication and language of its' own, delicate. There are certain images/artworks that directly relate to the gut and heart. This is one of them, stirring very unruly butterflies, running wild and rampant, making it hard to catch a breath.

Elanor

I think if Joris saw them now, he'd have a stroke. I imagine them lying in bed and the boy taking a selfie and sending it to Jo. I think they'd hear him screaming all over Paris.😂

Elanor

I can hear their hearts beating like drums from here

Ava

Honestly it looks like they're about to kiss 🥹 but maybe it's more of like a mental/emotional kiss...?

Jelimel

please tell me I'm not the only one whose brain went straight into "imagine how it must be weird for the Boy to feel the heat radiating from Tera's neck and the cold from the mask touching his forehead" lol but, my oh my, the intensity, the tenderness ♡

Sandriuss

My stomach did the thing when I saw this 😭😭😍

evi

Such a sweet scene... It hit a nerve when I saw the panels on Insta, but the 2nd panel here makes it even more intense. Funny that you mention the Boy touching Tera's jaw. Well, techically, he doesn't - it's the Wolf's jaw he touches. I so very much like how you play with anonymity vs. closeness.

+estesmindead+

Pray for my aching soul to rest in peace 💀💓💝❤️‍🔥

valentina

Argghh when will the mask come off 😭 Boy needs to know there is a handsome face attached to that BIG heart

Mellowcat

I so adore the fact, that the Boy didn't fall for Tera's physical appearance (well, Jo did!) but for the things Tera showed him. For how he acted. His reaction and what he revealed of himself to the Boy, not even using words. This isn't about being "attractive" or "just his type". It's about the "whole" of a person and things you can't see, just feel, (like the Boy told Lee, not feeling judged by Tera, but feeling seen). How can you not fall in love with that?! Not "your regular tinder date" at all, (to quote Tera). It must be very new for him, too. Not having this routine of a purely physical base, but having feelings attached all of a sudden.

Elanor

THIS is what love really is to me. Not (just) how a person is physically (Tera complimented the boy a couple of times) but above all how he makes you feel. The boy feels safe with Tera, even though he knows he's a criminal, and Tera feels safe with the boy, even though he's half his size and definitely not as strong as him. It's an emotional security, he has a hole in his stomach and it's late but still he goes to visit him instead of going to his house for treatment. This situation must be strange for Tera too (we don't know if he's straight or bi) but being interested in a boy, someone might find it strange and terrifying, while he seems to accept this change in him and doesn't hold back. Feeling safe to be yourself with someone... is one of the rarest things there is. And they feel accepted.

Mo

Je parie que Tera doit commencer à être vraiment frustré avec son masque. Boy est trop cute, hâte de voir al scène !!

yusai

This soft and intimate moment is so sweet that it’s killing meeee 😭 I love them so much

Ladybug

I can see the sparks fly. You got the room guys, so now kisssss!

Mellowcat

I resent "labels", even though I understand it's partly necessary to set boundaries and coordinate and sort through things... but I'm not very fond of it, especially when it comes to "love". (Pico did comment, that Tera is straight, because that was a topic of speculation and discussion in the comment section a few years back). In my opinion, this word, filled with emotions, means something different to each person uttering it. If the one who hears it understands it in a similar way as the one uttering it... good. If not... "Love language" is different for each person. Those two... seem to be on the very same page. The Boy is not a project to Tera, not some kind of remedy. Not a cure for boredom or simple distraction. I do believe he cares (a lot!), and so does the Boy (by now). The Boy really grew to accept Tera and acknowledge him. He sees him now. When it comes to flirting... like Tera commenting on the Boy's belly or making him blush otherwise... come on, that's a "power play" (a good-natured one, mind you). This satisfaction when you manage to make someone blush... that's a physical reaction to something said or done. And Tera is very good with those things, hands-down! He's clearly enjoying it, until he wasn't in control of that any longer, because he felt the "need" to be close to the Boy, not having much of a choice (subconscious reaching for the Boy in that Starcups, while preparing to rob the place by taking the safe). Showing up time and again. Not just out of worry, but because in some way... he is seeking that presence. Some substance for the void within. Mind you, Tera is a very physical guy, he knows very well how to work his obvious advantages, intimidating and installing fear. Provoking reactions, people averting their gaze, making way when he walks past them. And he is also capable of extreme violence, like it's nothing. Just a method, a tool. A well-known way of handling things and establish order in the world Tera lives in. Yet, no matter the circumstances... I can absolutely not picture Tera using the same measure to "solve a problem" with the Boy, to fix a situation with the Boy (different from involving the Boy, like Tera did with Muta at the gas station, when he almost totally lost it, if not for the Boy's interference). I cannot picture Tera using physical violence - something he knows very well, either way - to handle a situation. Even though it IS part of him and his life. Even though it comes easy to him, in the most intimate and cruel ways (burning someone alive, strangulation, slicing a throat open, stabbing, crushing bones...) just to name a few... I can't picture Tera being the "I'm so sorry babe, I swear, that won't happen again"- type. (Sorry, this went pretty dark, but... that's simply something that's part of their relationship too, no matter how much Tera wants to keep it away from the Boy). Remember - Tera only apologized to the Boy that he "had to see this" - not that he actually was about to strangle Muta at the gas station. It's motivation-driven and rational... Tera doesn't HAVE to do it. He's the one in control, not the other way round. I love how complex this is... it's amazing.

Elanor

I agree. And precisely in a world like Tera's, filled with violence and loneliness, having someone who "sees" him despite knowing (more or less, the boy doesn't know everything he does) what he does is new to him. And he doesn't care if this someone is male or female, it's a light in his darkness. A warmth, an affection, and a kindness he's never felt before. Now they've both found someone they can breathe with, seeking each other out and being together becomes a physical need to feel good.

Stella

😍 I'm going to go feral when they finally kiss each other

Chiro

It’s hard to read Tera’s feelings with the mask hiding his expressions, but the way you position his body says a lot. I especially notice his neck and how he tilts his head. In this panel he almost stretches toward the boy and exposes his neck in a vulnerable way. Little details like the veins or muscle tension feel really expressive I might be over-analyzing though! 🙈😆 Also it kind of looks like the boy wants to lift his mask…but I guess it’s too soon! haha.

SpaceBug

I really needed to see this today🥰🤭

zpico

Haha no, actually you’re right! I’m surprised you picked up on all that without the rest of the scene! It’s true, Tera is kind of allowing himself to lean on the Boy here, letting his guard down (you’ll understand why!) Good job Chiro! You know them well haha

Lumen

I could stare at this panel for hours! So intense and sweet. I love the chemistry between these two so much! I got a lot of butterflys in my stomach. I think I found a new Screensaver.

Abeille Femelle

You are a master at showing deep emotional connection

Chiro

Aaa exciting 🙈

Call me by sash

Je vais pleurer d’émotion je crois 🥹😭

zpico

Damn, wrote my answer before reading Mel’s haha! I do think labels don’t make much sense between them! But no big deals tbh! Haha I love yall comments so much!! They’re so accurate and touching. I’m really happy that this story makes you feel things that are so real and meaningful. It’s such a strange feeling to see people put into words all the intentions (very personal and intimate ones sometimes) that I pour into these characters. Thank you for sharing all of that with me 💖 “This situation must be strange for Tera.” Haha I’m not sure how to phrase my answer damn! But honestly, not that much! I’ve always tried to make things feel as natural as possible between them. That’s actually the exact moment where I chose to add the Boy’s line about Tera’s slow heartbeat (the text I shared on Instagram). It was meant to reinforce the idea that Tera and the Boy have found each other. That for Tera, he’s exactly where he belongs. He’s home. Tera is someone who feels things much more than he explains or analyzes them. Here it shows through the slow rhythm of his heartbeat and how calm he becomes 😊 I know it probably breaks a few stereotypes. Usually when someone is near their love interest their heart is racing haha. But this felt right to me. That’s the whole point: there’s something so honest and true between them that neither of them even questions where their sexuality fits within their relationship. And it’s actually to contrast with that natural chemistry that I sometimes give Joris a more openly gay attitude, which Tera tends to reject haha. The Boy is his exception 😌 But I dunno why I’m saying all this, you’ve gotten so good at reading my characters 💖💖💖💖

zpico

Wait you know what, actually the answer is a bit more complicated. In a way, yes, the situation is strange and new for him, because he’s not used to that kind of affection and attention!

zpico

Oh you just said it. See, you know them lol 😂

Salem

omggg ive been waiting for this for a long time brooo. the boy is finally realizing those FEELINGS!!! I feeel like Tera has been pining for him for a long time.

Mellowcat

The racing heart... that's because of a certain... fear? Insecurity! That's the word. Insecurity. "Does he like me? Like I do like him? Am I enough? Is this right? Does he see my flaws? Will it repel him? I'm scared to be rejected. I'm scared. I let my guard down, I'm vulnerable." Things like that make your heart race... But if you don't worry about things like that, because you feel ... safe. Seen and understood. And if there is enough ... trust. There comes the calm. The... home. Your place. Safe space. Without a doubt. Mutual. You're neither lonely nor alone anymore. It's a time, when you actually believe in "as long as I live". You don't even think about an end, because it feels timeless. The significant other might not be a perfect fit for just anybody - but those edges fit perfectly (in)to yours... puzzle pieces that just... click. You're rather restless without the other, than with them (though, there is still plenty that will make your heart race, of course... but for different reasons). 😉

Elanor

I wrote that the situation must be strange for Tera because he's been straight and attracted to women his whole life, and feeling a certain kind of interest and affection for a guy must be strange. At least, I think someone else might question it or be scared by it and reject it, but he doesn't seem to care; he just wants to be happy and at peace. And I imagine the boy who might have doubts like, "You've always been with girls, what if you don't like being with me? What if you can't do certain things with me because I'm a guy?" Having feelings is one thing, but getting physical and intimate with someone is another. I understand what you mean when you say the heart rate slows down instead of speeding up. When I was with my ex, I felt so good and relaxed that I felt sleepy being with him, as if I could delicately let go and let my guard down because there was someone "watching over" me.

zpico

Yeah that makes a lot of sense, I agree!

Elanor

I think for Tera, having someone so close that he can touch them is like having an enemy so close that they can hurt him. I don't know if I explained myself... in his world, he MUST keep people away or he risks being killed, and letting the boy be so close, touching him, and so close to his mask must be terrifying in his subconscious. But the moment the boy touches him, he realizes he can let go. Tera is like a wild, stray dog who WANTS to trust but always remembers the pain he's received, but the moment he realizes he can trust, he becomes the most faithful and loyal dog (sorry Tera for the dog😅).Ironically, the boy seems more "courageous" than him. He may be a suspicious and distrustful cat, but the moment someone compliments his ears and keeps him dry from the rain, he starts purring.😅(Jocking)

elysiriyu

i fainted, woke up and fainted again

Elanor

It has nothing to do with it, but after this, I expect the boy to be at school texting Tera that he's bored, and Tera responds with "why? Do you miss me?😏😉" and the boy "...maybe..." and half an hour later Tera texts him "I'll wait for you in the bathroom"

zpico

Hey the bathroom is a good idea!!!! Hahaha

Elanor

Tera, very calm, climbs the front of the school in broad daylight to wait for him in the bathroom. They kind of lock themselves in a stall to talk, but some of the boy's classmates come in and comment on the way he dresses, and he covers Tera's ears because he doesn't want him to hear. And Tera says, "I can scare them if you want. Just a little😉" (I don't know if the boy is being bullied for the way he dresses, but I guess he doesn't care that much.)

Mary Beh

I wonder if the first time Tera takes his mask off if it’ll be reminiscent of Eros and Psyche.

zpico

Aw thank you so much 😭💖

Chiro

This might be a technical question, but do you ever struggle with anatomy? I’m always curious what parts feel challenging and how you work through them. Your anatomy is so beautiful I had to ask! 🙈 And you probably get this a lot, so no worries if you don’t feel like answering xD

Donna Devans

The way the boy blushes and touches Tera’s mask, the eyes, the body language, the closeness, it’s simply exquisit… You just can feel it too! Pico you are genius in so many ways, cause it can be very challenging to express emotions through drawing and you definitely nailed it!! You just could show the whole scene without any dialogue and we’d still get it all. Love it!! ♡ ♡ ♡

Elanor

I LOVE how he draws hands

Chiro

Awhh yh! Hands and eyes are always a beautiful way to tell a story without words 💕

Elanor

For me, hands are one of the most difficult things to draw. And his are pure art. The same goes for eyes, being able to put expressiveness into them is not something everyone can do (like Tera's, which are all alone without the rest of the face).

Elanor

I'd like to know what ethnicity the boy is instead. I assume he's half Asian, but specifically?

zpico

Hey Chiro!! Oh yeah, every day. I cry about it a lot 😐💀 Hahaha nah honestly, there are always tons of situations that make me struggle. I’d say there’s a kind of randomness to it? sometimes it suddenly works right away, and sometimes I can struggle with a single panel for an entire day. Sometimes it’s really hard to understand what exactly isn’t working in the final result 😭 That’s also why I’m always a bit hesitant regarding their clothes, because I know it completely affects the way I balanced their silhouettes and articulated the different parts of their bodies. I could technically use the 3D models available in CSP, but they take too long to pose and it annoys me lol (but do it if you feel comfortable with it!) If I’m really struggling, I’ll just act out the pose myself And for hands, especially in close-ups, I also rely on photos!

Elanor

I can't wait to see what the covers will look like when it's in paperback.👀

Chiro

My friend is an animator and their phone is full of the most random pose photos of themselves lol. References can get so funny even if you don’t end up using them 😂 Also what you said about outfits is interesting. They can look great, but I can imagine they can be challenging in some “golden” shots because it’s harder to balance the shilouette (idk if I’m describing it right in English). And btw, thanks for taking the time to reply! I can’t imagine how busy you are. ◉﹃◉

zpico

Nah it’s okay I’m done working for the day, I’m tryna decide if I should ghost a guy who never makes me a priority but still reaches out to me every day Any thoughts? 💀🤣🤣🤣 This is so random im dead

Elanor

🚩🚩🚩My darling, I was with a guy for 6 years who never put me first. Then he found a girl and after 6 months they got together and put SHE firts(we lived together). (It's complicated.) If you're not a priority now, you never will be. Trust someone who's been there (three times).

Chiro

This is wild. Why does he reach out every day then? He likes talking to you daily but still doesn’t make you a priority? Hmmm, I mean youre chatty so idk why not Idk how much you’re comfy with sharing loool

Chiro

I might be bad at describing it, but if your gut and instincts are screaming about something, I’d probably listen to them 😭 Without context sadly I’m lost lool😭

Elanor

I think you know WHAT he wants. Never a second choice, never a secret. You deserve a guy like Tera (if you find him, ask if he has a brother)

zpico

Hahaha 🤣😭

Elanor

May i ask you how old are you? Pico and Chiro

Elanor

in Italy we say "mandalo a fare in culo"

Chiro

Idk what the “ghosting” situation is, but, I think you deserve someone who listens you no matter what, even if it’s “boring”. What do they message you about everyday that you enjoy? What’s your goal in a relationship etc. I do the same for the closest ppl to me, especially partner. You know what I mean? Maybe I’m daft 😭😭

Chiro

Srr I’m tired, it’s been a looong day, I probably gave a shi*y answer lol….

Elanor

Seriously, you create a character like Tera who CLIMBS A BUILDING WITH A HOLE IN THE BELLY without knowing if his lover is awake, and you go after someone who doesn't treat you like a priority? Come on, you deserve good mornings and goodnights, flowers, and love songs, you deserve "I saw this and thought of you, so I got it" and "I have 10 minutes free, can we meet?" You deserve someone who will even drive an hour to see you and be with you. you're wasting your time with a Joris..

zpico

Awwww haha, that is so sweet Elanor 💖

Elanor

I'm telling you this because I've never had it in 30 years. Now block this asshole, put on your best outfit, and go out and have some fun.

Mellowcat

Does it feel like something you want and - more importantly - need in your life? Does it make you smile, just because? Does it make you feel good? Happy? No? There you go. What would you advice to someone dear to you when you would be asked? See?! Make yourself your priority and cut off things you don't want and can't change. Invest your energy in finding something/someone that makes you happy instead.

Elanor

Hi Mel, take your cup of tea. 🙋🏼☕

Elanor

the mere fact that you're thinking about it gives you the answer.

zpico

Update: I blocked him 😌

bun

do we ever learn the boys name or is it intentional that we don't know?

zpico

Hey bun!!! Haha naaah it’s intentional! A big part of this story revolves around the idea that the characters aren’t entirely themselves, or are carrying another identity. Tera hides behind a mask, and earlier in the comic, the Boy hints that after the fire he had to change his identity for his own safety, even if he doesn’t fully understand it that way. It’s ultimately a way of asking, ‘who am I, really?

Chiro

You deserve peace now without him wasting your time 😌 damn was he that bad?! I was going to say maybe he was shy, but I guess it wasn’t the case 😭 I’m sure you’ll meet someone 10x better asap🤞🏻

Elanor

👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 now go out and have some fun🥂

Elanor

So....wich asian Is he?👀

Julie

😍

Gwen

J'adore les WIP et les posts spontanés comme ça, j'ai l'impression d'encore plus la sensation extra d'assister à la construction de ces petits tourtereaux ! ♥ Et vos notifs sont celles que j'attends le PLUS dans le mois !!

darkqueen

I guess that's the preferred way for Tera to expressed his sorry and to comfort the Boy by laying his forehead onto Boy's to take away his pain, and his shoulder to reassured everything was fine.