Page 35 of Slippery When Wet

Calvin rubbed his chin, trying to work out what brought on Ellery’s question and what his concern might be. He hated to see him so anxious. “Tell me what’s bothering you and I’m sure we can work it out.”

“I’m not complaining, I promise.” He lowered his eyes. “I just started thinking about your cook and anyone else working here who might look at me funny.”

Calvin arched his eyebrows. “Oh. I see. Is it the nature of our relationship that’s your main concern, or that we’re having any relationship at all? They do realize I’m gay, you know. And I once had another boy living here, although…” He cleared his throat. “Well, I shared that with you.”

Ellery laced his fingers with Calvin. “I’m sorry you had your heart broken. It sucks when people aren’t honest about who they are.”

Calvin placed a kiss on Ellery’s forehead. “You’re such a sweetheart. I think Tony tried, but you either are a Little or you’re not. It’s not something that can be forced.”

Ellery gazed up at him. “See? This is why you’re amazing. You’re so understanding and accepting.”

Calvin leaned down, sharing a soft kiss with his boy. After reveling in the moment, he broke the connection, his heart filled with his love for Ellery. He didn’t want to get pushy, but perhaps Ellery would be open to packing up his things when they went back to the city?

“Let me reassure you of a few things. My lovely cook of fifteen years has a gay son and has never been anything other than wonderful towards me and—when he lived here—Tony. I’m certain that you and Sarah will get along swimmingly.” Calvin carded his fingers through Ellery’s hair. “The rest of the staff consists of a groundskeeper who has the weekends off the way Sarah does, and a cleaning service that comes in once a week. On Thursdays, to be exact.”

Ellery rubbed the back of his neck, still not appearing as relieved as Calvin had hoped.

“What about, you know, the nursery? Won’t the staff be…” Ellery covered his face with both hands. “I want that so badly, but I don’t think I’m ready for anyone to know. Especially strangers who’ll be judging me.”

Calvin’s gut clenched. Maybe hehadpushed Ellery too fast, had expected too much of him as a Little. He encircled Ellery’s wrists, gently encouraging him to drop his hands from his eyes.

“Baby, listen to me. I wouldneverallow anyone, no matter how long they’ve worked here, to disrespect you or I by being judgmental or condescending. As far as the nursery goes, that’s always been a private, locked room. I also keep my study locked for business reasons.” Calvin enfolded Ellery in an embrace. “But if you’re too uncomfortable to stay here when there’s staff present…” He swallowed hard. “Then we can limit our relationship to the weekends. I’ll figure out another solution to the situation with your apartment.”

Ellery clutched Calvin’s shirt, his fingers digging into the fabric. “No, Daddy. I don’t want us to only be together on weekends. I’d hate that.” He peered up at Calvin. “I guess I’m still working through everything in my mind.” Ellery smiled. “But now that you’ve explained the schedule and your viewpoint, it’s a big weight off my shoulders.”

“I hope so. But if you need to pull back on certain aspects of our Daddy/boy relationship, I’ll understand. Always share your worries with me.” Calvin pressed a kiss to Ellery’s forehead. “That’s what I’m here for.”

Ellery’s features brightened and Calvin gave an inward sigh of relief. He knew it would take time to settle in as a couple, but it would besoworth it.

“Thanks, Daddy.” A light blush bloomed on his cheeks. “I guess it slammed into me when you told me to put on my jeans. I had a flash of wishing I could go outside in my new clothes, then one thought led to another…”

“And you pictured being spied by someone who works here wearing a onesie with your binkie attached to the shoulder by a clip?”

Ellery snorted. “Yeah, that’sexactlywhat I was thinking.” He gave Calvin another squeeze. “But I’m totally okay now. I guess I just needed that clarification.”

Calvin rubbed Ellery’s back. “Of course, baby. And excellent job of sharing your feelings. Daddy’s very proud of you.”

Ellery’s blush deepened. “Thanks.” He cleared his throat. “So…since the groundskeeper, cook and cleaning staff aren’t around on the weekends…” He gave a one-shouldered shrug. “Maybe I could just wear my onesie outside today?”

Calvin cursed the cool weather. Oh, how he wished he could give in to Ellery’s request.

“Not today, baby boy. It’s still too chilly outside. I’d also like you to put on the hoodie I got for you.”

Ellery’s eyes widened. “Ooh, I didn’t see one in the closet. Where is it?”

“In the hall closet, with all the coats and jackets.” He tousled Ellery’s hair. “I know you have one already, but not like this. Go take a peek.” Calvin winked. He couldn’t for him to see the officialFinding Nemojacket he’d had delivered earlier in the week.

Like a shot, Ellery raced off with Calvin calling after him, “Inside feet, please!”

Ellery’s response came from the front of the house, echoing throughout the living room, “Yes, Daddy!”

* * * *

Ellery sucked in a big lungful of clear, crisp air as he gazed around, absorbing the magnificent surroundings. Tall, vine-covered stone walls lent a castle-like atmosphere to their picnic. It also gave them plenty of privacy.

The patch of grass they’d claimed for their lunch was under a red oak tree in one corner of the massive rose garden. At the center of the square section, a large stone fountain commanded attention with a group of four cupids, each facing a corner of the garden as they poured water from urns. Pathways—also of stone—dissected the grass in outward angles between the colorful, budding roses.

If he didn’t know better, he’d think they were on a European vacation.

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