Page 68 of Hooked on a Demon
“What part do you find fun?”
“All of it?” Everest questions. “Why do I feel like you’re judging me and what I, no, whatwe, do?” His voice takes on a more agitated edge.
“I’m not judging. You can do what you want, as long as you’re still enjoying it and people aren’t getting hurt. But I’ve been feeling at sea with the whole playboy life as of late, and I think it’s time I grow up.” Immediately, he knows the words are wrong.
“Grow up? Really Declan? I’m not the one with rumors swirling around town that he fucks ‘em and leaves ‘em before they even wake up. I at least have the decency to spend the night with the women, so they don’t end up feeling completely used.”
Fucking Hades.
“That’s not what I meant, and you know it. I think it’s something I’m not interested in anymore. I’ve been enjoying the quieter nights, the less stress, less booze, and overall, less.”
“Well then, I guess tomorrow night will be right up your alley. A quiet night with the family.” Everest tosses the now-empty popcorn bag into the trash as he walks to the open bay door. Fuck, he hopes no clients heard their conversation. “See you at the theater,” Everest says sarcastically as he walks out.
“Fucking hell,” Declan groans to himself, running his hands over his face before locking them behind his head as he looks up at the ceiling.
Pulling out his phone, he opens his ongoing chat with Eliana.
Declan
Just a heads up
Ev was at the shop. He’s upset that me and him haven’t been hanging out as much.
It didn’t go well.
We need to tell him about us.
A response comes quickly.
Eliana
I know. I’m sorry it was a shitshow.
I told my parents about Sam today. I want to talk to Ev about it and about us after the showcase.
I’m proud of you
Do you want to talk to him together?
I don’t know.
I feel like he’ll take it better from me?
Maybe.
Whatever you want to do, I’ll support.
Can I see you tonight?
Do you even need to ask?
silly me.
My place - 8:30?
Can’t wait
Sliding his phone back in his pocket, he’s overcome with a sense of dread. There’s no way Everest is going to take this well. Especially not when he realizes that Declan’s been lying to him to spend time with his sister.
