Chapter 36

“Lyle,” Randy flailed until each hand found Lyle’s wrists. “What the fuck—”

Lyle’s eyes widened. He eased the pressure of his grip immediately. “Mr. Connor…Randy…” He let go completely and began to pat Randy’s coat flat with one hand, then reached around Randy’s head with the other. “I’m so sorry!”

Randy nudged Lyle back and took a long breath. “Jesus Christ, Lyle.”

The flush that had been on Lyle’s cheeks grew from mere warmth to embarrassment. “Did I hurt you? Are you all right? Do you need to sit?” Though Lyle waved toward the bench, he didn’t move away.

“Pfft.” Randy swatted Lyle’s hands away, trying for coolness and not at all convinced he was pulling it off. His fingers shook and the back of his skull thumped. He rubbed his head and then pulled his hand back to check for blood. “You a wee bit tense or what?”

“Let me see.” Though Lyle’s voice was soft and calm, the way Lyle pulled Randy’s shoulders to force him to turn left no doubts as to whether or not Lyle would insist.