[Tate breathes in slow, steady and deep. He feels like this is another extension of their pinky-swear but somehow more genuine. More them. He's showing Derek he trusts him and he's opening himself up to his scrutiny. Derek will know in a heartbeat, literally, if he's lying or trying to hide something. He'll know how Tate feels, for better and worse. It's a connection, maybe the closest they can have until he really does take the bite.

He blinks up at Derek, and lifts his hand into the air; resting his fingertips against Derek's hand and holding lightly to it.]

I was lonely. I've always been lonely. More than anything, I just wanted someone to want me. Need me the way I need them.