“I disagree.”
“You don’t pay attention well, do you?”
“I’m just incredibly stubborn in my belief that accidents are accidents.”
“I once fell over the barrier and into the Puget Sound.”
“There are places you can swim in the—”
“Where the boats come in.”
I … have no words for that. “I didn’t even know that was possible.”
“With me, anything is possible.” And I know he means it in a self-deprecating way, but I’m inclined to believe him.
“I can only hope so.” I offer him my hand. “Want to go and get those burgers?”
Surprise takes over his features, and he stares at my hand for long enough that I think he’s going to accept. “Nah, I think I’m going to order an Uber and head home.”
I do my best not to look disappointed. “At least let me drive you.”
And just when I think he’s going to disagree, he nods. I’m clearly terrible at reading him.
“Okay. Yeah, thanks. But, umm …” He holds out his arms and looks down at himself. “I’m a fucking mess.”
“Good thing I have leather seats. Though I wouldn’t be opposed to you stripping off if you’re worried.”
Finally, I get a real grin. “So eager to get me naked.”
“I’m a red-blooded gay man, and you’re incredibly gorgeous.” I eye him shamelessly. “Figured I’d try my luck and see what happens.”
The cheeky bastard throws me a wink and heads in the direction of the parking lot. “Then let’s see what happens.”
Well,hello.I follow Christian around the corner and take the lead when it’s clear he has no idea what direction to head in. Pity. I’d been enjoying the view of his ass. I can only imagine that all that dancing and rehearsal and whatever else his job requires, keeps him fit, because the way his pants mold over those plump cheeks is criminal. The thought of being able to unwrap the entire package? Button after button? Want slithers through my bloodstream, and I tap the button on my keys to distract myself from picturing him naked.
“Thisis your car?” he asks, hands suspended over the hood as he rounds it, like he wants to touch, but is too scared. “An E-class?”
Bribe gift from the parents to stay in town, not that I’m going to say that. “Management pays well.”
“Very well.” He lets out a long whistle. “Now I really am considering getting naked.”
“If you want me to get you home safely, you won’t distract me like that. Come on, get in. A little frosting never hurt anyone.”
He mutters something as he pulls open the passenger door and climbs into the car. I watch the way he pinches the seat belt between his fingers and tries uselessly to plug it in without touching anything.
“One day you’ll listen to me when I speak.” I pretend to sigh, before reaching over and clipping him in. This close, I can seethe dark ring around his blue irises, even in the shitty light from outside.
“I don’t know how to take you,” he admits.
“I told you I wouldn’t lie.”
“Yeah, but most people who say that still do it to spare people’s feelings.”
If there’s one thing today has taught me, it’s that I’d never want to hurt this gorgeous man. “I don’t think it’s possible for me to hurt your feelings when you do it enough on your own.”
Another small smile. Beautiful. “So maybe I have some confidence shit to work on.”
“Which is wild to think about considering you’re a performer.”