Page 49 of Bad to the Bone
“Come with me,” Ricky Lee urged. “We can both kick the dust of this shit town off our feet.”
Alex shook his head, not sure whether to laugh or cry. “Just like that? It’s so easy for you, Ricky Lee, isn’t it? Just make up your mind to do something and it’s done. I’m not like that. I can’t just decide something on impulse. I need time to think it through, to be sure I’m making the right choice.”
“You don’t think our being together is right?”
The pain in Alex’s chest doubled. “It’s not that.” How could he explain it in a way Ricky Lee would understand? “My life might not be as successful as yours, but it’s here. What would I do if I came with you to Portland?”
“Whatever you want to do. Help me figure out what has to be done to restore your library building. Hell, we could really piss the town off and expand it to include an LGBTQ youth center. Polynomial Software sets aside twenty percent of all profits to help fund new startups. You could help me administer that program. You could go back to school or whatever you want.”
“I’m not saying no, Ricky Lee. But I can’t give you an answer this minute. You have to give me some time to make a decision this big.”
“I’ll give you some time, but don’t take too long. I’m serious about getting out of here as soon as I can.” He ran a hand down Alex’s side. “Do you want to think about it inside?”
Alex drew a breath. “You could probably seduce me into saying yes, but I need to make this decision with a clear mind.”
Ricky Lee looked as if he’d like to throw Alex over his shoulder and carry him into the hotel, but he shook his head. “Then thanks for the ride.” He got out of the truck, tucked his hands into his jeans pockets, and walked away.
