Page 53 of Better to Believe
“Paul Bunyan probably doesn’t have a PhD.” Coury winked and picked up his drink. “He still your type?”
Liam bumped his shoulder to Coury’s. “He never was.”
* * *
Coury
Snapping the book shut, Coury yawned. Again. It had taken longer to get caught up after a week away from Liam.
Part of it was how close they sat. They used the basement just like always, but Liam had moved closer . . . close enough that Coury smelled the fresh scent of Liam’s expensive “calming” shampoo. It was hard to think when he was hard.
“I’m sorry we went so late.” He pushed the textbook into his bag. “I’ll get out of your way.”
He didn’t want to go, but he should.
“It’s late. You should stay here tonight.”
“I’m fine.”
Liam shifted to face him. “Didn’t we do this already?”
“Yes, but this time is different.” Liam wasn’t asking just because it was late.
“Yes, if anything the roads are icier now than the last time.”
Coury shook his head. “Liam. It’s a bad idea.”
“Why?” Liam’s voice shook a tiny bit. “We’re both adults.”
“I know what you’re asking, and I want that, too. More than I’ve let you know. But if I pitch like I know I can for that scout, I’m leaving for Podunkville USA in June.”
“I know.”
Coury wasn’t sure Liam really understood. “I’m afraid if we go any further, you’re going to be hurt when I leave.”
“I’ve liked you since I was twelve. These last few weeks . . .” He shrugged. “When you go, it’s going to hurt no matter what. I know what I’m asking.”
“Liam . . .” Beckett’s voice rang in his head.Don’t hurt him.
“If you don’t like me this way, then say no.” Liam was shaking.
Coury instinctively reached out. “I like you the way you think,” he whispered.
“Then stay.” He looked up, his eyes pleading. “Please?”
No matter what he did, he was going to hurt the person he only wanted to make happy. He tried to stick to reason but staring at Liam, his brain retreated.
“Are you sure?”
Lifting his head, Liam pressed his lip’s to Coury’s. It was soft and gentle. When he pulled back, he grabbed Coury’s hand and led him toward the stairs.
* * *
Liam
His body shook as he and Coury left the basement. The house was eerily quiet; they tried not to make noise.
Still holding Coury’s hand, he led the way to his bedroom. Every fantasy he’d had about Coury was about to be erased, replaced by memories. He ignored the voice screaming it was a mistake. Of course it was. Totally. But he didn’t care.
