Page 72 of Embers Glow After the Fire

She runs past the arched door between the salon floor and reception and disappears around the bend.

When he reaches the threshold he sees her wriggling butt hopping about at a client’s feet.

“I’m so sorry—“ he pauses at the sight of Brendon, folding over to greet Honey with a massive bouquet of wildflowers in his hand. His dark waves are grown in from the buzz cut and he’s dressed in a fitted white button down with jeans and black slip-ons.

“Hey you. It’s nice to meet you Honey Darling.” He looks up at Matthew through those dense dark lashes and his smile lights the world.

“Hey.” Matthew beams. “What are you doing here?” are the words that fall past his goofy grin.

“I’m your next appointment.” Brendon steps forward with Honey bouncing around his feet and pawing his knees. He proudly passes Matthew the bouquet, boasting his chest at attention and linking his hands behind his back.

Matthew wraps around him, squeezing until Brendon whimpers before he loosens his grip.

Brendon lays his head on Matthew’s shoulder and his lips brush the side of his neck. His arms slip under Matthew’s and hook around his waist.

Matthew’s fingers tangle in Brendon’s thick mop at the nape of his neck. Goosebumps carry down his arms. “I’m so happy you’re here,” he whispers in his ear.

Brendon leans back. “I’ve got lots to tell you.” His mossy eyes sparkle.

Matthew remembers Margo is waiting for him. “Hang out for a bit. I’ve got to finish up a client and then I’m all yours.” He waves an arm toward the seating area. “Daevon will take care of you. C’mon Honey, back to the office with you.”

“Leave her right here with me.” Brendon scoops the wiggly pup off the floor. “She and I need to get acquainted.”

Matthew sniffs the floral arrangement and he feels light again. “You’re in for it. She’s a handful.” Matthew giggles. He hands the flowers off to Daevon. “Can you put these in water for me?”

“Of course.” Daevon beams. “Would you like anything to drink?” he asks, turning to Brendon.

“No thank you.” Brendon chuckles, settling on the sofa with Honey lapping at his chin with furious excitement.

Matthew floats back to his station. “The usual trim?” He tousles Margo’s wet hair.

“Who’s that?” she whispers with a curious grin.

“That is Brendon.” He peers back out to see the boisterous pair getting along beautifully in the waiting area. His chest just might explode with joy.

Chapter 29

The Garden

”Where are we going?” Matthew climbs into the back of the SUV ahead of Brendon.

Aaron shuts the door and scurries around to the driver’s seat.

“On a date.” Brendon smirks.

They had stopped by Matthew’s condo so he could change out of his hair clipping covered clothes and freshen up.

Brendon walked Honey around the block to tire her out and let her potty before settling her in at home, alone for a few hours.

Matthew smells of apples and spice, like a pie. Delicious. His apricot waves are neatly coifed and his sharply pressed floral-print button down pairs nicely with dark denim and camel pointed-toe loafers.

The SUV whizzes down the street and maneuvers through the city until they reach their destination. Aaron scurries around the vehicle and opens the door. He passes the valet staff a business card from his coat pocket, so they can call on him when the passengers are ready to be collected.

Brendon slinks onto the sidewalk and helps his stunning date climb out, inhaling that sweet apple and cinnamon scent wafting out behind them.

Matthew squints up the dark glass tower, shimmering in the Georgia sun and recognizes their location. “Brendon—what are we doing here?” He bites his lip, looking tentatively at the building in front of them.

“We’re having dinner.” Brendon takes his hand.

---