Chapter 12

“Make what worse? I don’t understand.”

Gary fought to get free, but Neil’s superior strength held him firm.

“What the fuck’s wrong?” He pressed Gary’s now shivering naked body to his bare chest. The warmth did little to take away Gary’s sudden chill. “Why’re you shivering?”

“I need to leave. You’re going out to dinner, you and Danny.”

“And you, too. You’re coming with us.”

Gary shook his head. “I can’t. Neil, I’m in love with you and I know I can’t have you. I understand that and I accept it. But I can’t go out and eat with you and pretend that you’re just Danny’s dad. I can’t…I can’t.” He was close to losing it.

“No. You don’t understand.” Neil kissed the top of Gary’s head and rubbed circles on his back. The gesture, meant to provide comfort, only served to show Gary more of what he couldn’t have.

Gary fought to get free.

“Stop it! For God’s sake, listen to me.”