Work Text:
Bojack was the most beautiful man Herb had ever met. Every time they hung out, Herb was seized by the desire to hold him, and found himself drifting closer, closer to him. Herb never did end up holding him—he’d always end up settling for merely putting an arm around him. But to simply touch him was great in-of itself.
Every night, he longed to have Bojack snuggled up against him. And, after some nights of drinking, they actually did. Herb didn’t remember the actual cuddling—except for a hazy recollection of warmth and rightness—but he remembered the mornings after, of waking up next to him.
On one such memorable occasion, once he woke up enough to realize where he was and who he was next to, he found himself nearly entering cardiac arrest. But he held himself stock still, afraid to awaken him. After a moment, once he knew Bojack was sound asleep, he let himself relax just a bit, and decided to give into temptation. He reached out and gently, ever so gently, began caressing his mane. His mane was the softest and most wonderful thing Herb had ever felt. Part of him wished Bojack was awake, so Herb could see what expressions and little noises Bojack would make, but he knew he’d never have the courage to do so if Bojack had been. He wished he could stay like that forever… but he didn’t let himself. He didn’t know what Bojack would think about it if he woke up. The moment was over far too soon, but at least he got to experience lying next to him for a bit longer.
On another, Herb woke up to find Bojack staring at him. Bojack quickly flushed and denied it the moment he felt Herb’s eyes on him, but Herb knew better. Herb felt his pulse race with the knowledge, and couldn’t stop blushing, so he quickly excused himself and ran to the bathroom.
Once he’d calmed down, Herb came out and decided to pretend the whole thing never happened, ignoring Bojack’s stuttered apologies in favor of asking Bojack what he’d like for breakfast. He’d treasure that flustered look on Bojack’s face for many years to come.