"You needn't pay me back the compliment," he manages, still breathing heavily. He's gifted in that his mind returns to him quickly, even though his body is struggling to keep up. He sighs softly, relaxing easily under Watson's touch in his hair. Wrapping his arm over Watson's chest, he draws close, doing nothing short of snuggling against him.

"I love you, my dear John," he murmurs softly. Feeling safe and comfortable and close to Watson leads to him trying out Watson's Christian name. He can't imagine that it wouldn't be received well, but it's thrilling nonetheless.