Page 57 of Beyond the Summer

I laughed, slapping his ass.“It would, brat.”

The crisp autumn air nipped at my skin as we rounded the corner and the camp’s lodge came into view.It was lively for this time of year.Instead of standing empty, like it often did in the off-season, the sound of laughter and chatter was spilling out onto the path, ready for the wedding of two of my close friends: Aiden and Jay.

Sutton looked around, his nerves momentarily forgotten.“We should talk to Matt about this.The camp property could be used beyond the summer.Think of the additional revenue stream.”

I smirked.“I’m glad you are enjoying the internship.”

“Working with Matt and your stepdad is really enjoyable.The project really means a lot to me, and I don’t know what Matt said to my dad, but he’s been leaving me alone.And even Elliot has been fun to reconnect with.”

“In a non-romantic way, though,” I said firmly.

Sutton had the grace to look appalled.“Of course it’s not romantic!I belong to you.”

He stopped a few steps outside the lodge, and I followed his gaze to see he’d spotted Parker and Ravi.

“Do you want me to pull them aside and explain everything to them?I think they’ll love you once they understand,” I said quietly.

“No.”He tucked his chin in, staring at the ground.“No, this is Jay and Aiden’s big day.I just want to risk a confrontation.”

“Baby, you can’t always avoid confrontation.”

He smirked at me.“I can try.”

"Ben!"Parker exclaimed, abandoning the group to pull me into a bear hug."Dude, it's been too long."

I returned the embrace, chuckling."Good to see you, man."Releasing him, I turned to Ravi, who greeted me with a warm smile and a firm handshake.

"It's wonderful that you could both make it," I said.

Ravi’s gaze flickered briefly to Sutton, who hovered a step behind me, and he raised an eyebrow, but before he could ask, the music paused, and Matt came on the loudspeaker and made an announcement that the ceremony was about to begin.

Parker shot us a curious look as everyone found their seats, and I was a little glad that Sutton and I were on Jay’s side, while Parker Ravi were on Aiden’s.Sutton slid in close to me, our thighs pressing together, but didn’t do anything to show affection outright.Even here, he seemed to fear that his father’s people might be watching.I felt a surge of protectiveness as he sought my touch, and I folded his hand between two of mine, holding him steadily as we both watched for the two grooms.

The lodge was transformed into a vision of rustic elegance.Strings of twinkling lights illuminated the rough-hewn beams, casting a warm glow over the gathered guests.A beautifully decorated archway stood at the front, where Aiden and Jay would soon exchange their vows.Soft, melodic music filled the air, setting the tone for the intimate celebration.

As the ceremony started, I watched Sutton's body slowly unwind, his shoulders relaxing as he took in the tender scene unfolding before us.Aiden and Jay stood facing each other, their eyes shining with love and adoration.Their vows, spoken from the heart, were a beautiful testament to their unwavering commitment.

As my friends exchanged rings, I stole glances at Sutton, marveling at the way his expression softened, the tension melting from his features.He sat transfixed, his gaze fixed on the couple as they pledged their love.I noticed his grip tightening on my hand, and I responded by lacing our fingers together.

"Someday, that could be us up there," I murmured.

Sutton's eyes widened, and I saw the corners of his mouth turn up.“I’d be sexy as hell in a tux,” he whispered, and I bit my lip to stifle a laugh.

“This is why I wanted you to come,” I whispered.“I wanted you to see this, to see everyone supporting these two men who love each other.It’s worth the awkwardness, isn’t it?”

He didn’t answer, but his fingers tightened around mine.As the ceremony ended and the crowd erupted in applause, the intimate spell was broken.Sutton and I reluctantly pulled apart, and I watched as he put on a brave face, his walls going back up.

I gave his hand a gentle squeeze, silently letting him know I was there for him, no matter what.Then, I turned my attention to the rest of our friends, eager to celebrate Aiden and Jay's union.

"Congratulations, you two!"I exclaimed, pulling Aiden into a warm hug."That was such a beautiful ceremony."

Aiden beamed, his eyes shining with happiness."Thanks, man.We're just so grateful to have you all here to share this day with us."

I hugged Jay, giving him a sincere smile before turning back to Aiden."You're a lucky guy.Jay is one in a million."

"Don't I know it," Aiden replied, his arm snaking around Jay’s waist possessively.Both of them eyed Sutton, as if waiting for me to explain things, but when I said nothing, they moved on.One day soon, our relationship would be out in the open, and I’d be able to share the happy news, and introduce them all to the real Sutton.

As the reception kicked into full swing, Sutton stayed a few steps behind me.It was odd to see my usually outgoing boyfriend trying to blend into the background.Sutton loved nothing more than to be the center of attention.But here, he hovered on the fringes of the group, his eyes darting around nervously.

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