Page 16 of The Texas Sterling Collection
“Did you enjoy the concert?” I glanced at Wyl. The dashboard lights gave his face a soft glow.
“Yes, but the way you explained things helped.” Wyl shifted in his seat to turn in my direction. “I’m glad you said something about the concert in class.”
“I'm happy you decided to go. Hearing a live concert helps you appreciate music, which is the point of the course.” I kept my eyes on the road, but the corner of my eye caught Wyl’s gaze on me.
“I enjoy the course,” Wyl said. “Your way of presenting material makes learning both meaningful and enjoyable. From a student perspective, I understand why students rate you so high.”
“Oh? And how did you find the ratings?”
“Your evaluations are on the college website. You’re the highest rated of my three professors this semester.”
“I hope you have the same impression after taking my course.” Getting compliments from students always pumped me up a bit, but from this student, the praise meant more. Wyl not only liked me; he admired me. The urge to reach for his hand almost overcame common sense, but I kept both hands on the wheel. Wyl’s deep voice interrupted my thoughts.
“So, what do you do when you’re not teaching? A guy like you must have a busy social life. I bet you enjoy an interesting hobby like gardening or novel writing.”
“Pfft…social life?” I shook my head. “Since I moved back to Blackfield, socializing is not high on my list. Small towns and gays don’t mix well. I run early in the morning, but that’s about it for hobbies. I have a bucket list of things I want to do. Skydiving is one. Horseback riding is another.”
“I can relate.”
Wyl turned to me every time he spoke. Although it impressed me, I wondered if his gaze meant more. I found his attention flattering, but didn't want another relationship. The pain of Patrick's betrayal stayed with me, and I vowed to avoid a repeat.
“Did you skydive while in the Marines?” I asked.
“Jump out of a plane? Nope. Not something I ever wanted to do. Plus, my job kept me in front of a computer screen. But Walt and I can do something about the horseback riding idea. Horses are a critical part of the ranch, and we enjoy them.” Wyl leaned his elbow on the console. “Why don’t you come out to the ranch? Bring your guitar. We’ll grill steaks. And I’ll introduce you to Walt and to the horses. A fall and temperatures cool down, I’ll put you in the saddle.”
“Are you kidding me? You would let me ride a horse?” My own high-pitched voice made my face heat. “I camped out as a Boy Scout and always dreamed of riding a horse. Aside from a ride on a rent-a-horse while in college, the thrill of being on a fine steed is a far-off dream.”
Wyl barked out a laugh. “A rent-a-horse is no way to enjoy horseback riding. Those horses are aggressive and in a hurry to return to the stable. Our stable includes a gentle horse you’ll enjoy riding, and he’ll respond to your commands. We can camp out one night if you like.”
I grinned until my cheeks hurt. “Man, you’re pushing all the right buttons. You tell me when, and I’ll be by your side.” Plastered to your side, nuzzling your neck, licking your skin.Whoa…wait a minute. What happened to the vow of friends only?
We chatted for the rest of the drive back to Blackfield. Time passed faster than I wanted. We arrived at the campus parking area at 10:30.
Wyl turned and leaned in my direction to unbuckle his seat belt. “Night, Rod. Thanks for the evening. I learned a lot.”
My heart sped up at the thought of Wyl leaning over to kiss me. Both disappointment and relief flooded me when he didn’t. “Take care, Wyl. I enjoyed your company and can't wait for horseback riding.”
“I’ll make a horseman out of you.” Wyl closed the door and waved as he strolled back to his truck.
As I drove home, I pondered the magical evening. Wyl mentioned having no friends and wanting to avoid blind dates. Walt and he lived alone in the family home, so common sense said no wife. And he displayed no qualms about whispering in my ear at the concert. Plus, he talked about gay rodeo, and although he came up with a logical explanation, I sensed more to the story. If I can only figure out how to ask.
Chapter Twelve
WYL
I sat in the Fine Arts building lobby early Monday morning, eager for Rod’s arrival. Sharing coffee with him became the highlight of my Monday and Wednesday mornings. I didn't realize I missed having a friend in my life. In high school, Stewy and I were inseparable. Not in a physical way, but we played football and studied together. Our families played cards together, so we studied together a lot. During my stint in the Marines, I didn’t bother with anything more than have-a-beer buddies or an occasional flag football game. After basic training, the military transferred me at a moment's notice, so I avoided developing deeper connections.
The outer door at the end of the hallway opened, and in walked the man himself. “Morning, Rod.” I stood, a grin lighting up my face, and offered my hand.
Rod smiled and shook my hand. “Morning, Wyl.” He thumbed toward his office and motioned for me to follow. “You’re here early.”
“Before-class coffee with my favorite professor is at the top of my list.” The pleasant sensation flowing up my arm when we touched stayed with me.
Rod paused to unlock his office. “Let’s put our things in here.” He reached in to turn on the light.
“Thanks.” I sidled past Rod, and brushed against him as I edged into the office. He stayed in his spot in the doorway…hmmm…on purpose? I placed my satchel and hat on one of the guest chairs. He followed me in and put his things on his desk.
In the break room, I gazed at Rod while he made coffee. Plenty of fine-looking men all over the world caught my eye, but only as eye candy. The Corps is full of handsome guys. But none of them did to me what Rod did. I must keep reminding myself our friendship can be nothing else. He is out of my league in many ways, plus the college policy manual includes a section detailing the penalties for student/teacher relationships. Rod caught me gazing at him, so I focused on my fingernails. “What kind of coffee have you been serving? It’s delicious.”
