Hannibal would likewise prefer that they had the time to enjoy this closeness, this beginning of their deeper relationship, yet he knows that in the interest of continuing the relationship...or, at least their ability to be together, to speak and touch without glass between them...they need to surrender that time. But not yet. They can allow themselves this, if just for a moment. He's aware that his hand trailing along his lover's side is as arousing as it is soothing, and it is part suggestion and part promise. Their sexual experience, the touch says, will not be limited to the one encounter.

Will's gentle touch is sweet, and Hannibal's hand leaves Will's side to brush against it. "I will be a professor of classics on sabbatical. You may be a colleague or a student, as you prefer. I had thought student, but while the Parisians are typically of a live and let live philosophy, and a relationship between two men may in fact for that reason grant us some additional privacy, the relationship may attract negative attention if it is between a teacher and pupil. "