He leaned in for another kiss, his lips tasting of mint and something undeniably intoxicating.
The soft melody of a slow song filled the room. Standing, I offered my hand. “May I have this dance?”
His eyes lit up. “I’d love to, my beast.”
As we swayed to the music, I held him close, savoring the feel of his body against mine. “I never thought I’d find someone like you,” I whispered.
His grip tightened as he whispers into my chest, “Me neither, Darke.”
My heart beat against his head, as we dance. I’m his beast, and he’s my little prince.
25
BOBBY
Resting my head on Darke’s chest, I savor the steady rhythm of his heart and the gentle rise and fall of his breath. His scent, a captivating blend of soap and cologne, envelops me in a comforting warmth.
Lost in the music, I hold him tightly, my arms wrapped securely around his strong frame. He pulls me closer, his embrace both protective and passionate. In this moment, I feel utterly at home, cherished and adored.
The soft caress of his shirt against my cheek invites me to nuzzle deeper into the warmth of his skin. His fingers trace gentle patterns through my hair, a soothing rhythm that lulls me into a state of pure contentment.
As the music fades, Darke’s husky whisper sends a shiver down my spine. “You’re breathtaking, Bobby. I can’t wait for later.” My heart swells with love for this extraordinary man. My beast, and my protector.
26
DARKE
We eat dinner, having an easy conversation. Then I had to tell him something serious.
“My parents didn’t accept me as gay either when I came out,” I say, my voice serious.
Bobby puts his fork down. “You too, beast?”
His eyes lock onto mine, filled with surprise and curiosity. I nod, taking a sip of my beer before continuing. “Yeah, it was tough. They’re traditional, old-school. They wanted me to marry a woman, have kids, the whole nine yards.”
I put my bottle down, my gaze drifting off for a moment as memories flood back. “But I couldn’t pretend to be someone I’m not. I had to be true to myself, even if it meant losing their approval.”
Bobby’s expression softens, and he reaches out, placing his hand on mine. “I’m sorry, Darke. That must have been really hard for you.”
I turn my hand over, intertwining our fingers. “It was, but I’m past it now. I’ve got you, and that’s all that matters.”
Bobby smiles, his eyes shining with emotion. “I’m glad you have me, beast. I’m not going anywhere.”
* * *
We finished our meal in companionable silence. Fully satisfied, I leaned back.
“That was incredible, Darke,” Bobby complimented.
I chuckled, a contented burp escaping my lips. “Glad you enjoyed it, little prince.”
Bobby rolled his eyes playfully. “Such class, beast,” he teased, grinning.
We shared a comfortable silence for a moment before I suggested, “Want to watch a movie? I have a few options.”
Bobby nodded eagerly. “Sounds good. What do you have in mind?”
I stood up and started browsing my streaming services. “How about a rom-com? I’ve got ‘The Proposal’ or ‘Crazy Rich Asians’.”