Page 22 of Slippery When Wet

“Mmm. That sounds wonderful.”

They held each other in silence and Calvin’s gaze drifted to the changing table next to the dresser and closet. They hadn’t made it to that side of the room yet. He was sure Ellery had seen the adult-sized piece of furniture, along with the stacks of diapers in different colors and designs next to the baby powder and other changing accessories. Maybe Ellery wasn’t quite ready for that step yet.

“Do you want to take out your toys and play for a while? Or would you like to change into a onesie or some pj’s first?”

Ellery pulled back and peered up at him. “Don’t you want to show me the diaper area first?”

Calvin was proud of how much easier than before it had been for Ellery to bring up the subject of the diapers, but he didn’t miss the blush that stained his cheeks. Ellery’s comment didn’t necessarily mean he was going towearthe diapers, but at least he was expressing interest in them.

“Only if you’re ready.”

Ellery held his gaze. “I’m ready.”

Calvin gifted him with another soft kiss. “Then let’s take a peek.”

This time, Calvin was the one to lead the way by pulling on Ellery’s hand. However, he was met with no resistance. Ellery seemed to be as enthusiastic about the idea as Calvin was.

When they reached the table, also done in a deep blue but with fluffy white clouds instead of an ocean theme, Ellery let go of his hand. Calvin silently observed as he ran his fingers along the edges of the changing table. Then, he continued his exploration of touch by trailing his fingertips down the stacks of diapers carefully put away on shelves next to the table. He licked his lips then squatted in front of the table, examining the powder, oil and lotion, along with the wipes and…

Bingo.

Ellery had spotted the clamshell shaped tray that held three, new adult-sized binkies. His hand hovered over them as if they might bite if he got too close. Then his fingers wiggled, and Calvin couldn’t stand it anymore.

“You can touch them if you like, sweetheart. And they’re only there in case you’re interested, there are no expectations on my part.”

Ellery glanced up at him. “Can I use one now?” He gave a small shrug. “I bite my nails and I’ve tried everything to stop. Maybe this will help?”

Calvin smiled. “Maybe.” He offered Ellery his hand. “Pick out which one you want, then how about we take a peek at your new clothes?”

Ellery accepted his help and rose to his feet, and Calvin noted it was the yellow bunny paci that Ellery had chosen. He still hadn’t put it in his mouth, but Calvin didn’t want to push. Ellery should come to it in his own way.

“I feel so spoiled.” Ellery glanced down at the binkie sitting in his palm. “I wish I could do more to thank you.” His eyes widened. “Oh! I forgot! I made you something.”

Calvin grinned. “You did? How sweet of you.”

Ellery ducked his head. “It’s not much, not like all the cool stuff you’ve done for me.”

Calvin wrapped his fingers around Ellery’s nape. “Stop it. You didn’t have to do a thing, and I think it’s very thoughtful of you.”

“Can I show you after I change?”

Calvin’s breathing hitched. Ellery didn’t only want to see the clothes—he was going to wear them. He cleared his throat.

“Absolutely, baby.”

“Awesome.” Ellery broke into a grin then stood on his toes and gave Calvin a quick kiss. “This is fun.”

A relieved chuckle burst out of Calvin. In some ways, he’d been waiting for the other shoe to drop ever since he’d picked Ellery up. Terrified that some trigger would send Ellery running and begging to be taken back to the city. He should’ve trusted his instincts more, listened to what his heart had been telling him all along. Ellery had a Little buried inside him who was eager to come out and play.

Calvin favored Ellery with a wide smile. “I’m so glad to hear that. Did you want to try a onesie? Or stick with pajamas? I have both regular style and footie—although the footie ones might be too warm for this time of year.”

Ellery let out a small gasp, his eyes widening a tad. Calvin wasn’t quite sure how to read his reaction, so he repeated what he’d said in his mind.

“Oh.” Calvin let out a shaky laugh. “I mean if you…if we’re…”

Damn. Had he gone too far? It wasn’t even summer yet. The footie pajamas were clearly meant for fall and winter. That made it sound as if Calvin planned on them still being together by then. He shifted on his feet. Something about Ellery had unraveled him, had made his typically self-assured demeanor unsteady.

Ellery gently took Calvin’s hand. “I think there’s a good chance for us. At least from my point of view.”

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