A bit of humor doesn't quite fix the mood — playfulness wasn't really what Martin seemed to be going for — but it makes it easier to settle back into it, equilibrium reestablished. John's smile softens as Martin unbuttons his shirt, his movements gentle but efficient as he slides the garment off his shoulders and plunks it into their hamper.
Then he retrieves John's joggers, and John barely has enough time to assume that he'll be handling that part on his own before Martin is crouching before him, as if... well, any obvious comparisons evade him. He doesn't feel patronized, like he's a child receiving necessary assistance. But Martin's attitude isn't what John would call deferential, either. He is offering help because he wants to, a little playful, but insistent.
John's blush deepens, but his smile widens as he obediently steps into his pajamas, setting a hand on Martin's shoulder to steady himself. "Thank you," he murmurs.
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Then he retrieves John's joggers, and John barely has enough time to assume that he'll be handling that part on his own before Martin is crouching before him, as if... well, any obvious comparisons evade him. He doesn't feel patronized, like he's a child receiving necessary assistance. But Martin's attitude isn't what John would call deferential, either. He is offering help because he wants to, a little playful, but insistent.
John's blush deepens, but his smile widens as he obediently steps into his pajamas, setting a hand on Martin's shoulder to steady himself. "Thank you," he murmurs.