Page 52 of Without You

Releasing my hold on her face, I shove my hands deep into my pockets. “I guess that raises a few flags, doesn’t it?”

“I don’t know, does it raise yours?”

My body doubles over in laughter, her quick wit unapologetically refreshing.

“Line up, gentlemen, this one is a catch,” I call out, when I’ve caught my breath. “She’s gorgeous and she’s got jokes.”

“It’s a pity you’re hooked on your friend. I would’ve shown you a good time.”

I almost want to drag her to the bathroom and fuck her. Fuck the idea that I’m passing up a sexy woman for Julian right out of my system.

“I’m not hooked on Julian,” I lie. “He’s my dead brother’s boyfriend. It’s complicated.” I admit to a stranger. “We’re trying to be friends.”

“And how’s it working for you?”

“It’s fine,” I say a little too enthusiastically. “We’re out tonight and having a good time.”

“Does he know you’ve got a thing for him?” she continues. “Because he has a thing for you. He’s looked over here no less than a hundred times. Maybe I can play matchmaker,” she squeals excitedly.

“How about we walk to the bar and get some water,” I suggest, hoping to move her away from Julian and the possibility of him catching on to our conversation. Standing, she threads her arm through mine, getting ready to walk.

“Did someone say water?” Ray says, waltzing up to Keri and I.

“Does this place offer table service now?” I joke.

“I’m off soon and just wanted to see if you guys needed anything before I leave.”

“You don’t need to wait around for us,” I say. “We were going to the bar anyway.”

“It’s all good.” He turns to catch Julian’s attention. “Do you guys want anything to drink before I sign off?”

Pete pipes in, answering Ray. “We’re just about to kick these guys’ asses so some celebratory shots on me is a must.” He raises his hand for Julian to high five. “Sorry, Keri, but I’ve found a new doubles partner. You’re officially out.”

Keri nudges me in the ribs. “Seems like you may have yourself a little competition.”

I tilt my head down to look at her and ask her something I know I shouldn’t. “Is he gay?”

“Pete? No.”

I look at her questioningly, but she just smirks. “But neither are you. Remember?”

12

Julian

“We’ll come with you to get the drinks,” Deacon says to Ray, tugging Keri to the bar with him.

She’s smiling while he’s rolling his eyes at her. They seem to be hitting it off, and I’m almost regretting this whole pool game idea.

Not completely though, because for the first time in forever, I had fun. It could most definitely be the buzz of the alcohol, but I don’t care.

I had fun being me.

I wasn’t the guy who lost his best friend. Not the guy who’s in a permanent state of mourning. And not the guy who was finding himself more and more attracted to his boyfriend’s straight brother.

Right now, I’m the guy with no past and no future.

I’m the guy living in the moment.

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