Page 15 of Step Daddy

“You promise it’s nothing illegal?”

Gareth smiled. “One thousand percent, I promise. And I also promise to tell you at some point, when I think you’re ready to hear it.”

Kit frowned. “Why wouldn’t I be ready? I’m not twelve anymore, you know.”

Gareth chuckled. “Point taken. But you’re still young and you’ve been raised by the King of Judgmental Prudes. Plus, and I don’t want you to take this the wrong way, you’re straight. Not that straight people don’t…” Gareth let his head fall back then gave it a shake before turning to Kit again. “That came out wrong and I’m being way too cryptic. I’m sure it’s annoying. Let’s just leave it at this isn’t something gay specific, but more along the lines of it being specific to me personally.”

“It’s a sex thing, right?”

Gareth rubbed his eyes the way he had earlier. “Kit…”

“That’s okay. I meant it when I said it isn’t my business. But…”

Kit chewed on his lower lip. Gareth was his brother, at least in name. Weren’t older brothers supposed to help out their younger siblings when it came to important life questions?

“But what?”

Kit lowered his head. He couldn’t look at Gareth to answer. “I mean, uh, what if I’m not sure I’m totally straight?”

When Gareth didn’t respond, Kit lifted his gaze. He was met with Gareth’s stunned expression, his eyes slightly rounded and jaw slack.

“Oh.” He cleared his throat. “I apologize, Kit. I didn’t mean to make assumptions. I take it you’re questioning?”

Kit nodded and swallowed hard. “Yeah. I don’t know why I’m making such a big deal about it in my head. But I can’t stop thinking about whether I’m, you know, gay. Or bisexual. Or…I don’t know.”

Gareth sighed. “Jesus, Kit. You’re not making a big deal out of anything. You feel how you feel. And if you’re comfortable enough with me at some point, or need me to be a sounding board, I’m here for you.” Gareth gave him a soft smile. “I know we’re still essentially strangers right now, but my hope is that will change sooner rather than later.”

Kit smiled back. “Me too.” He wrung his hands as he took a leap into the unknown. “And I’m comfortable right now. What I mean is that I’d appreciate… Can we? Talk about it?”

“Of course, kid. Whatever you need.” Gareth grabbed the check and the twenty Dev had left behind. “But let’s get outta here. This isn’t the spot for any soul-searching conversations. We’ve got a few hours before we meet with the attorney, so how about we go enjoy the outdoors? If you’re up for it there’s Red Rock Canyon. Lots of places to wander around out there, get some peace and quiet. How does that sound?”

Kit grinned, a measure of relief filling him. For the first time since they’d left the condo, he felt like they were back on track together.

“Sounds cool. I’ve never been to Vegas or this area before and I love the outdoors.”

Gareth arched his eyebrows. “Yeah? Good to know.” He slid out of the booth. “Come on. I’ll take you to my favorite spot.”

Kit trailed behind Gareth to the register, back to battling his ever-present nerves. Would he truly have the courage to bare all with Gareth? Kit chewed on his thumbnail.

Maybe it would be best to leave out the part where he wished he and Gareth could be together—but not like brothers.

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