Page 20 of Baby Boy

Avery nodded vigorously.

“It’s perfectly acceptable to tell me no if you aren’t comfortable with something,” Jace added. “But I want you to try to let me take control and make you happy.”

“Please.”

“Let’s go to my car,” Jace ordered. He kept his arm around Avery’s shoulder as he led him to the SUV. Avery didn’t have to think. Jace opened the door, helped him out of his backpack and inside, even buckled the safety belt around him. Then placed his backpack between his legs. “I’m going to put on some nice quiet music and you’re going to relax on the drive, okay?”

“Yes.” Avery even nodded.

“Good boy.” Jace kissed his forehead then closed the door.

Avery laid his head back and closed his eyes. He didn’t even look over when Jace climbed behind the wheel. The vehicle was started then the soft sound of jazz music filled the space. He relaxed even further. Knowing that nothing was expected of him for the moment helped him gather his thoughts.

The problems of the night had been his fault. The nerves had gotten the better of him and Avery hadn’t been able to control his reactions.Back to acting like a spaz.But even if he was out of control, Jace still wanted him.

It felt good knowing there would be no demands of him for the next few hours. He let himself drift as Jace remained silent while driving them.

Before he knew it, they were slowing down before turning into a driveway. Avery lifted his head to peer out through the front windshield. The cute gray house with white shutters and manicured lawn fit Avery’s idea of a home.

“This is it,” Jace said quietly.

“It’s nice,” Avery told him.

“Thank you.” He turned off the engine. “Now would you like to hear my plan for the night?”

Avery nodded.

“You can say no at any time. If you don’t want to do something or need to ask questions, you can.”

He swallowed.

“We’re going to go inside and I’m going to take you upstairs and get you changed.”

“Changed?”

Jace smiled. “I think you will be more comfortable in some lounge clothes. It will also help you get into the right head space.”

“But not diapers?” He just wanted to make sure.

“Not tonight,” Jace answered. “After you’re comfortable, we’ll go down to the kitchen and you can sit at the table while I finish up dinner.”

“Okay.” It didn’t sound bad to him.

“While I finish dinner, I’m going to get you a drink and let you color at the table.”

They’d discussed that already. “Okay.”

“Then we’ll have dinner. Afterward we’ll see about the rest of the evening.”

“Sounds good.”

“Alright,” Jace said. “Stay right there until I help you out.”

“Sure.” He wanted to addDaddybut would it sound weird? Would it be too soon? It felt like Jace was already taking care of him. He lost his chance when Jace opened his door and headed around the SUV to Avery’s side.

“Come on, boy.” Jace unbuckled him before taking his hand to help him out. He grabbed Avery’s backpack for him and carried it as well. He didn’t release Avery’ hand as they walked up the walkway.

Avery looked around, trying to take everything in. He hadn’t ever lived in a house like Jace had but it was a dream of his; to have a yard, with a dog—a place that would be his forever. Jace unlocked the front door and ushered him in.

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