John's smile warms as Martin's ears redden, and it's only the novelty of their current configuration that keeps him from dipping his head for a few illustrative little kisses to the freckles he's already so favored. His caution might be a bit overblown — Martin doesn't seem uncomfortable, and he isn't sure what, if anything, might qualify as 'too much' under the circumstances — but it doesn't seem right to carry on as if nothing is different.

"In fairness, I never thought you were holding out on me," he replies, leaning back a little to better admire Martin's back. "But these are a lot of freckles to have neglected for so long." He tsks softly, as if it's a terrible shame, then lets his fingers trace down Martin's spine, slow and careful.

"Is this okay?" he asks, stilling his hand but not yet lifting it away. He hopes so; he's always enjoyed how soft Martin is, and his back is no exception. Granted, if it was a big issue, he imagines Martin would've said something by now. But he also knows Martin likes to indulge him, and he doesn't want to take advantage. Especially with this all being a bit new.