[Chapter 12](https://www.reddit.com/r/eroticliterature/comments/q8y79n/behind_the_mask_chapter_12_fm_incest_cousincousin/)
I was spacing out and watching Artemis slither to and fro in her tank when August came in. I probably wasn’t a sight for sore eyes; wrapped in the ugliest cardigan I owned and a grossly oversized t-shirt that acted as a lazy dress. Without a word, he steadily approached and seated himself in front of my desk. I couldn’t muster up the strength to engage him at all, let alone keep my mask on. He simply sat and waited for me, watching me carefully, eventually joining me in watching my snake. It was a rare thing to find somebody who gave you a moment without rushing you, especially a guy.
“Thanks for coming,” I mumbled, eyes not wavering from the enclosure.
“You said you needed me. Of course I came,” he replied. “And I know what you’re gonna say. ‘Wow, you guys really don’t do shit at SWAT, huh?’” Despite myself, I giggled, and he smiled. “Yeah, turns out we’re not raiding *every day.* Crazy, huh?”
“Crazy,” I agreed, then sighed as I reentered my rut. I tried to collect my thoughts before continuing. “I’m sorry to yank you around like this. I just… I don’t have anybody to talk to anymore.”