Page 81 of Embers Glow After the Fire

Phoenix trots over to the DJ, waving at Matthew and Brendon entering the doors along the way.

“He’s here…” He cups his hand to his cheek so his voice can be heard.

The DJ nods and starts tapping on his laptop.

Phoenix weaves through the crowd, ignoring the smacks and pinches on his ass, and readies himself next to the entrance with a big smile. He’s not used to feeling nervous but Perry deserves a brilliant bash for all he’s given him and he’ll be sure this night is perfect. There’s even a rent boy on stand-by in case Salvador didn’t make it, but word is he has.

A synth-pop mix begins.

Robbie and Dennis enter ahead of Perry holding Salvador’s hand.

The club roars with cheers that morph into guests syncing with the lyrics. Everyone wants to hear it for the boy.

Perry glows with pride, reaching for Phoenix’s hand and tugging him along their parade through the crowd.

A chiseled go-go boy with oil-sheen brown skin in tiny black-lit glowing briefs appears, carrying a jeweled gold crown and purple velvet cape with leopard fur trim. He adorns the guest of honor with a kiss on the cheek and presents his ass, demanding a spank before strutting back to his pedestal.

Perry pulls Phoenix into a hug and whispers in his ear. “Thank you, babe.”

Phoenix beams as Perry is dragged away to a velvet-roped booth by two more oily go-go boys in glowing speedos.

***

The party simmered in the early morning hours and the guests slowly trickled out. Perry, Salvador, Dennis, Robbie, Matthew, and Brendon stuck around to accompany Phoenix and Quin: the hot young chef, to a 24-hour diner around the corner.

“Eli tells us you boys will be roommates in Chicago?” Robbie asks.

“Yes. He’s going to culinary school and I’m going to teach yoga in a studio his cousin Logan has connections to. His husband Garrett is an investor, we’ve already spoken. There’s a great training program with a guru I’ve followed online for years. I’m excited.” Phoenix drapes off Quin’s shoulder, swimming in the boozy come-down after a successful bash. “It’ll be a fun change of scenery.” He grins at his date.

The hot young chef is another Greek statue, come to life, with dark curls, bronze skin, and a body built by protein shakes and gym memberships.

“You guys be careful out there.” Dennis winks.

“Yes, Daddy.” Phoenix teases.

“Keep an eye on Eli. He’s a whole new man since you corrupt him.” Robbie laughs.

“That boy is gifted.” Phoenix bites his lip.

”TMI,” Robbie cringes.

Quin quirks a brow.

“We’re just friends.” Phoenix traces his forearm with a finger.

“Tonight was amazing.” Perry sips his coffee. “Thank you. I’m going to miss you scheduling my life.” His eyes gloss over.

“Aw, Per!” Phoenix scrambles around the table and wraps both arms around his former boss’s neck. “I love you.” He kisses his cheek.

“Love you too kid.” He clears his throat and shakes away the vulnerability. “Damn vodka.” He laughs.

Salvador squeezes his shoulder.

"How long is everyone staying in town for?" Perry asks the table.

"Dennis and I are here through the weekend," Robbie answers. "Some of us will be around a lot more." He winks at Brendon.

Matthew pulls blushing Brendon into his chest and kisses his cheek.

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