beta
such an excellent chapter. Brett revealing his hand to Hayden in many ways and how strategic and calculating he is (love a smart pretty boy); people are quick to say that Brett is manipulative = bad. But I think that's a disservice to the story (which isn't about one character being "bad" one character being "good"). Brett has goals, he sets out to accomplish them. He's open about enjoying Hayden's company and wanting to be close to him, and HONEST to Hayden about how he goes out of his way to "earn" Hayden's company and to make HIMSELF seem desirable to Hayden. Brett wants to be "fair" and to provide value to Hayden in exchange. Yes, things are transactional to Brett, but it's also bc Brett can't conceive of being UNCONDITIONALLY desirable to Hayden (like he needs to give reasons to Hayden to want to spend time with him)
But instead of seeing Brett's efforts to spend time with him, Hayden feels manipulated and tries to establish his agency and control (ie. I CHOSE to be here, it wasn't just you; Brett: ??? ok???). It's because Hayden views "sincerity" and "feelings" as something that is uncontrolled and not strategic - like for him, you don't plan these things out; things happen spontaneously and impulsively. This is all tied again to how Hayden feels especially out of control over his sexuality whereas Brett seems to handle his own - and that of others - with ease. It definitely doesn't help that Hayden still ended up hiccuping (ie. his instincts are still out of his control, and within Brett's predictions/control).
I think both perspectives make sense! They're both such different ppl who are miscommunicating and missing each other's cues. Brett continues to feel like things fall predictably within his control; and Hayden feels entirely out of control at all times. Just great character writing I seriously adore this so much.