It takes a moment before Levi can force himself to speak. His hand drops to the back of Shane's neck, resting there, and Levi hopes almost fervently that Shane won't pull away.

"The party last night," Levi begins, taking a deep breath. "I wasn't thinking straight, I'd been alone for a month... It is absolutely no excuse for my actions, but..."

Levi keeps his gaze on Shane, ready to punish himself by watching Shane's face at the news. "I kissed someone else at midnight."