Page 38 of Check Me Out

“Just come with us, sir,” Seth said seriously. “It’s all been arranged.”

He paused, considering, then sighed. “I have a feeling I’m going to regret this.” But he let Dakota steer him through the EMPLOYEE ONLY doors. At the doorway to the breakroom, he stopped and stared. Dakota did, too.

Seth had transformed the space. Candles glowed from every surface. Michael sat at the break table in his suit. He looked pale and gripped the table edge so hard his knuckles were white, but he stayed where he was. He locked eyes with Mr. Diaz. After a moment, he cleared his throat.

“It’s been a long time, Juan. Can we talk?”

“God, yes.” Mr. Diaz turned to Dakota and mouthed, “Thank you,” then crossed the room in two steps and sat across from Michael.

“It’s taken me too long, I know.” He took one of Mr. Diaz’s hands in his. “I’m really sorry for everything. I’ve missed you.”

Seth took Dakota’s hand and led him back into the corridor. “I made him role play that speech. I think he did a good job with it.”

Dakota wrapped his arms around Seth and looked up into his gorgeous green eyes. “You made it special for them.”

Seth smiled. “That’s my favorite room in the store. Although, since it’s taken, maybe I can convince you to join me in the walk-in?”

“Hmm. Tempting. But I’d rather wait until they’re finished with the breakroom and enjoy the ambiance. I can’t believe you got Michael to agree to this.”

Seth ran a finger down Dakota’s jaw. “I told him that if he was looking for love, the Pick and Grab was the place to go.”

“Where love blossoms amidst the baked goods,” Dakota murmured.

“Or surrounded by suggestive sausages. I lovegaynineties night.” Seth leaned down and kissed the crook of Dakota’s neck, making him shiver.

And I love you.Dakota thought. But he didn’t say it. Not yet. Not tonight. But soon. Because love was what gay nineties night was all about. Dakota was a lucky man because he didn’t have to wait until he was retired. He got to fall in love with Seth right here and right now. And the best was yet to come.

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