Chapter 78

“No. I don’t think so.” Ryan flipped through the pages. “I have enough to do what I want to, for Miss Gina.”

“Then let’s get some coffee and head home.”

As they crossed the street, Ryan glanced at him. “Why are you so good to me?”

“I like you,” Shaun replied. “I like the man I saw a few minutes ago, when you were drawing those kids. I want to see him more often. The man who is dedicated to his craft and loves what he does.”

“I came so close to losing it,” Ryan said, almost under his breath.

“I know, but it’s coming back.” He opened the door to the coffee shop, “I’m going to stick around and watch it happen.”

Ryan stopped where he was, saying, “I hope so. I really do.”

“Count on it.” Because, against my better judgment, since I know you’ll never feel the same, I’m beginning to see you, to think of you, as a man I want in my life as more than a friend. 23

“I have something for you,” Ryan said, coming into Miss Gina’s office Sunday afternoon.