Page 13 of Bear Creek Christmas
Knox kissed the top of Levi’s head and stepped back, hoping his erection wasn’t terribly obvious. They resumed shopping, and Levi restarted the conversation, eager to change the subject.
“So, based on what I see in the cart, you must like to cook.”
Food was one of Knox’s favorite subjects.
“I do. Bears love to eat, and this time of year, we tend to pack on some extra weight. I’m going to cook you a meal soon—what are some of your favorites?”
Levi liked the idea, though he wasn’t sure when they’d have time.
“I’m not too picky, but I prefer chicken over red meat, fresh produce, and simple meals. Aside from my new addiction to Aiden’s candies, I tend to avoid a lot of sugar. And, like most teachers, it takes two cups of coffee to get me started in the morning.”
“Ah, good to know.”
By this time, they’d reached the dairy section and found more similarities on their shopping lists. Knox noted Levi’s choices for future reference and then continued their chat by asking about something more personal.
“I know you can’t be as young as you look, so how old are you? When is your birthday?”
Levi had intended to ask the same thing and so didn’t mind answering.
“Almost no one guesses right, but I’m twenty-seven. My birthday is the twelfth of May. What about you?”
“May, huh? Gives me lots of time to plan your party. I’ll be thirty-two on January sixteenth. Is it a problem that I’m older?”
Levi shrugged.
“Not at all. I kind of like it.”
Knox rumbled deep in his chest but didn’t say anything. With the shopping complete, the conversation paused while they paid for their purchases and hauled them outside. It pleased Knox to find a certain red jeep parked next to his truck, and he helped Levi stow his things in the back. Unfortunately, their few minutes of stolen time were up, both having other places to be on a busy Saturday.
Without asking, Knox pulled a willing Levi in for another hug. This time Levi responded by wrapping his arms as far around the big man as he could reach. Knox buried his nose in the blond man’s neck for a deep scenting, boldly licking below his left ear. Levi gasped and shuddered but made no attempt to pull away. Thoroughly aroused, Knox released him and leaned back to ask a question.
“I enjoyed this. When can I see you again?”
Levi’s heart hammered away, and he wanted desperately to kiss Knox—though not in the middle of a busy parking lot.
“Thanks for joining me. I don’t know exactly when, but we’ll figure out something. Thingshaveto settle down sooner or later.”
####
Things did not, ashoped, settle down. The next week proved to be even more hectic for Levi, and Knox’s schedule filled up with emergency repair calls and a list of other jobs. They kept in touch daily, hoping to arrange an “accidental” meet-up on the weekend when they might have more time. Knox’s bear kept pushing for more, leaving him with a relentless case of blue balls. The physical relationship would have to wait until Levi was ready, promising an explosive and satisfying coupling—hopefully soon.
Meanwhile, Knox spoiled Levi with little reminders of his affection. First came the bag of fresh bear claws from the local bakery, shared with a grateful staff. Then, a couple of days later, he found a romantic greeting card tucked under the windshield wiper of his jeep, signed with Xs and O’s. Initially, only Eden knew about the two of them, but it soon became apparent that Tri-Center’s new music teacher had capturedsomeone’sattention. Staff and students alike tried to figure out the identity of the mysterious suitor, and those who knew refused to say anything.
On Friday morning, a small box arrived at the school’s main office. Principal Langtree handed it to Levi with a wink, saying “a handsome man with a wide smile” dropped it off. He wasn’t exactly sure what to make of the comment but chose not to open the package until returning to his own office. Wrapped in white tissue paper, Levi found a beautiful wood paperweight carved in the shape of a quarter note. The enclosed note read, “You make my heart sing”. Levi almost cried. Eden squealed in delight when she saw it, pleased to see confirmation of their budding relationship.
“What did I tell you? Knox McCoy is special, and he has his sights set onyou. I take it you don’t object?”
Levi’s cheeks reddened. Eden didn’t know the half of it.
“No, I don’t mind. Knox is the opposite of Daniel, but it still scares me how fast things are moving between us. You know, once burned and all that.”
Eden patted him on the shoulder.
“I understand, but don’t let your fear get in the way. Knox may not show it, but he’s probably having a difficult time holding back. I speak from experience—the faster you run, the sooner he’ll catch you!”
####
By Friday evening,Knox couldn’t take the separation any longer and called Levi before it got too late. He answered on the fifth ring, right before Knox gave up. Levi sounded breathless.
