I've read this chapter with an increasingly big smile on my face
![Very Happy :D](./images/smilies/icon_e_biggrin.gif)
The playfulness splashes off the screen, and also shows how different Nick can be around different people. With Brad or Shawn around, he would probably have reacted in a way more aggressive and dominant way, while now he showed more of his playful side. I like this Nick better I think, with the occasional authoritative mood sprinkled over. Looking forwards to what the night still has in store for Steven and Jeremy!
The Nick/Zack-tag team with the swift handcuff action was great! You've made the scenes on this contained, static environment of the boat really dynamic, and this scene gave me the feeling Nick and Steven are really developing a healthy relationship, going from personal loss to difficult conversations, disappointment, to very active sex and now these mellow, relaxing trip culminating in a playful moment. Steven found a way to find an appropriate way to signal his wants and needs to Nick which fit the scene, Nick picked up on those and everyone got something out of it. I'm curious to see if they can also do this without Zack and Jeremy around, in their home and daily life. I hope so, but we'll see.