Page 52 of A Hard Sell

“Sounds great.”

A bubble of happiness welled up in his chest.Imagine this every day, deciding what we want for dinner as we head home after work. To our home. The idea was so warming that when Luka caught a glimpse of Morgan watching them from the reception desk, face in a scowl, he didn’t care one fucking bit.

* * * *

Part two of the trilogy went just as well as part one, but now that he could relax knowing Thomas liked them, he was much more distracted by the thick, solid presence at the other end of the couch. After a bathroom break, he swore Thomas was sitting a little closer to him.

When Thomas grunted approvingly at a fun plot reveal, Luka reached over and squeezed his arm without even thinking about it. His forearm was like a small tree trunk. He got a whiff of Thomas’ cologne as he pulled his hand away, which never failed to send his stomach whirling.

When the movie was over, they cleaned up their dishes and tidied the kitchen together, settling into their usual easy rhythm. When they went back to the living room, Thomas eyed Luka’s guitar propped on its stand. “I remember you mentioning a while ago that you write down songs sometimes when they come to you.”

“Uh.” Luka’s heart skipped a beat. “Yes. But I don’t—I haven’t played them for anyone.”

“Oh. Well, if you feel comfortable, I’d love to hear one.”

Thomas was studying him like he was something special. Like he deserved to be listened to. He swallowed hard and remembered how it felt to sing to Thomas on Thanksgiving, warm in front of the fireplace with his friends. The way Thomas had looked at him that night. He wanted that again.

“I guess I could.” Luka picked up his guitar and settled on the couch, heart pounding. “There’s this. It’s calledCould I.” It was his latest song. He cleared his throat and strummed a chord or two.Deep breath. Then he began.

“Could I be here

With you?

Could I have you

For a day

Could I touch you

Hold your hand

Could I smile at you

Is there a way?

Is there a way

For us to be…

Could I love you?

Kiss you, hold you

What will it take

For you to say…

Is there a way

For us to be…

Be the one

Be your love

Be forever yours

Be the one

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