Page 88 of Back to You

“You don’t think it’s too soon?”

“Too soon? It’s been months since you broke up, I don’t think that’s too soon,” Lake said. “If anything, it’s too slow.” Nia whacked him on the leg. “But I know you’ve needed this time apart,” he finished hastily, eyeing Nia warily.

“Anyway, how did it go? Was it weird?” Nia asked.

“No, it was … perfect. Like it was at the beginning.”

“Then why do you seem so awkward about it?”

“Because his friend Max walked in and I basically ran away,” Ethan said, cringing.

“Oh, honey …” Nia and Lake said sadly at the same time. They really had been spending too much time together.

“Why did you run away?” Lake cried.

“Because I felt weird being there in front of Max. He’s the guy I though Brandon was on a date with that time, and he makes me feel awkward.”

“Why? Brandon clearly isn’t interested in him.”

“I know, but it’s like he’s the representation of every other guy Brandon could have instead of me with all my issues.”

“Look at my baby, getting so in touch with his feelings,” Nia cooed, patting his cheek. “But Brandon doesn’t want any other guy. He wants you, issues and all. What were you even doing there?”

He explained about Sarah’s idea to have Brandon join one of his sessions, and Brandon’s agreement.

“He said he’d do anything to help me,” Ethan said.

“I love Brandon. He loves you so much,” Lake sighed.

“That is a good man right there, Ethan,” Nia said. “You hang on to him.”

***

Ethan paced the waiting room, Chauncey pacing right along beside him. He’d arrived a bit early to make sure he was there when Brandon arrived. The dog seemed to sense his nerves today, because he’d been glued to Ethan’s side.

He heard the door open and turned to see Brandon walk in.

“Hey,” he said softly, walking over.

“Hey,” Brandon said. They met eyes for the first time since their kiss days ago. All Ethan wanted to do was kiss him again.

As if sensing his longing for Brandon, Chauncey gave a soft woof. Brandon startled and turned his attention to the dog. “Well hello.”

“Brandon, this is Chauncey. Apparently he’s hanging out with us today.”

“Cool. He’s pretty, isn’t he?” Brandon went to one knee to make friends.

“Ethan?” Sarah said. “Oh, we have a full house here today!”

“Yeah, Sarah, this is Brandon.”

“Nice to meet you, Brandon, I’ve heard a lot about you. You guys can come on back.”

They settled on the couch in Sarah’s office, Chauncey darting in to sit with them. Interestingly, he set his face on Brandon’s knee today. Brandon petted him absently.

Sarah started out explaining the things she and Ethan had been working on and the progress they’d made. Brandon turned and smiled proudly at Ethan, which warmed him all over.

“So, Brandon, I’m sure you’re wondering what you’re doing here,” Sarah said.

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