Chapter 19

He pressed his lips against Dennis’ wet, soft mouth. Dennis’ hands came up to grasp Luca’s upper arms, as if to push him away as his lips opened in protest. For a short moment Luca tasted the tantalizing heat inside the sweet mouth, still hot from the tea. Then Dennis had turned his head away, pushing against Luca’s arms in a futile attempt to create space between them.

Luca stepped back, breathing deeply to calm himself. Dennis’ pajamas tented with an erection, and he blushed when he saw that Luca noticed. He lowered his hand as if to cover himself, then pulled his shoulders back and said, “No, Luca, just no. Not yet, okay?” With that he turned and left the kitchen.

Luca remained standing until he heard Dennis’ door close with a firm click. He spoke softly to himself, “Fuck, how could I be so stupid?” and slammed his fist on the counter. He knew how proud Dennis was, how he hung on to every vestige of his pride. And he of all people should understand pride.