Page 72 of Waiting for a Prince
Too long, in fact, but whenever he called to speak to her, his dad answered.
“I should have called before now.” There was a pause. “I heard what your dad said to you this morning.”
His stomach clenched. “I don’t really want to be reminded of it, to be honest.”
Another pause. “So what you told him was true? You’re gay?”
“Yes, Mum.”
“But what about Rebecca? How can you have a girlfriend if you’re gay?”
He took a moment before answering. “It’s a long story, and I’m not going to get into it now, but… she was never really my girlfriend.”
He caught her huff. “Good. Because I never liked her, no matter how suitable your dad said she was.”
Sam had to stifle his gasp. “Mum?”
“Well, if you’re not going out with her, I can say what I like, can’t I? Is this going to make things awkward between your dad and Jack? Those two can be thick as thieves.”
“Not once I’ve spoken with Jack.” A conversation Sam wasn’t looking forward to.
Mum sighed. “Okay. Here’s what you need to know. Your dad is who he is, and I think we both know he isn’t going to change—unless he has some kind of Biblical moment, and I don’t think that’s likely, do you? But whatever he says, however he rants… it won’t change the way I feel. I love you, Sam.”
“I love you too,” Sam croaked. “Mum? There’s someone I want you to meet. His name’s Mark—and heismy boyfriend.”
Mum caught her breath. “Oh, that’s great. I’dloveto meet him. Actually, I’d love to visit.”
“Whoa, slow down.” Sam laughed. “Sure, we’ll work something out. Mum… thanks. I really needed to hear this. We’ll talk soon, okay?”
“Yes, sweetheart.” They said goodbye, and Sam ended the call. He turned to face Mark, beaming. “That was amazing.” He relayed Mum’s words, and Mark let out a huge sigh of relief.
“Oh, that’s great. At least you’re not cut off from your family entirely. Does she think your dad will come around?”
Sam shrugged. “To be honest, I’d be surprised if he did. He’s not one to change his mind once he’d made it up. Knowing that Mum’s in my corner makes it more bearable, though.” He stepped closer to Mark. “But having you by my side?” Sam reached out his hand and cupped Mark’s cheek tenderly, and Mark leaned into his touch. “That makes my life perfect.”
Before Mark could say a word, Sam drew Mark to him and kissed him. Mark closed his eyes and melted into the kiss, dimly aware of noises from the people around, soft gasps and murmurs of surprise. He couldn’t have cared less. Sam was kissing him, not holding back as he deepened the kiss, and the rest of the world simply faded into the background.
Until he heard Sonia’s heartfelt exclamation. “Oh my God, that’s sobeautiful.”
Mark let out a low murmur as Sam pulled away, a sheepish grin on his face. “I think we’re creating a scene,” Sam whispered, “so maybe it’s time I got out of here.”
Mark felt a stab of disappointment. “Do you have to go?” The last thing he wanted to do right now was work. Even as he said the words, however, he knew he was being unreasonable.
Sam chuckled. “Er… yes? I have to start looking for a new job, for one thing. And then start looking for a new place for us.” He leaned in and kissed Mark once more, his lips warm and soft. “I have a favour to ask.”
“Name it.” Mark was in such a good mood, he’d agree to anything right now.
“Would it be all right if I moved in with you ’til then? I don’t want to waste another second being apart from you.” Those breathtaking eyes pleaded with him.
Mark beamed. “Oh God, yes.” The thought of Sam moving in filled him with elation.
And then he had an idea.
He reached into his jeans pocket and pulled out his keyring. He fiddled with the ring for a moment as he worked two door keys off it. Mark opened Sam’s palm and pressed the keys into it. “Key to the main door. Key to my flat. There’s a spare set at home.”
There was no mistaking the look of joy on Sam’s face. His hand tightened around the keys. “Thank you.” He leaned in and kissed Mark lightly on the lips. “In which case, I’ll be waiting for you when you get home.” He smiled. “So hurry home to me, okay? I’ll have dinner waiting.” He leaned closer to whisper in Mark’s ear. “And after dinner, I have something special planned.”
Mark’s pulse raced as he considered what that might be. Sam’s gaze was smoking hot, leaving him in no doubt that whatever he had in mind, Mark was going to enjoy every minute of it. Sam’s eyes glittered and Mark’s cock hardened.
