Page 126 of Haunted

“You mean, like being vers, but kinkier?” Teague widened his eyes. “So it’s not like you choose a role and stick with it? It’s not a permanent thing?”

Robert laughed. “No. Well, it is for some. But that’s like saying just because you liked women when you were younger, you can’t fuck guys later on, or vice versa. People are more fluid than that. And BDSM is pretty fluid too. It’s whatever you and your partner—or partners—make of it. As long as there’s consent, you’re golden. Everyone who comes to BDSM is different. That’s one of the best things about it.”

Teague chuckled. “Every time I talk with either you or Toby, I learn something new.”

“Plus, we’ve got a single guy staying too.”

“Make that two single guys,” Toby announced as he joined them on the porch. He greeted Teague with a nod before helping himself to a beer. “We just got another one.” He beamed. “I guess Sol couldn’t stay away after all.”

“Sol’s coming back?” Then Teague’s frown returned. “Wait a sec—Sol’s into this too?” Toby nodded, and he let out a long whistle. “He’s a dark horse.”

“Could you do me a favor? Sol meant to give Butch his phone number before he left, but I guess it slipped his mind. I was going to come down later and give it to him, but seeing as you’re here…” Toby reached into the back pocket of his jeans and removed a piece of paper. “Here you go.”

Teague took it and stuffed it into his jeans. “I’ll be sure to pass this on. Theyshouldstay in touch. Butch could use another friend.”

“And can you remind everyone about Monday? Matt’s got everything in hand.” Robert chuckled. “I think he’s planning on feeding half of Bozeman too, by the look of the grocery list.”

“I’ll do that too. Not sure how many of ’em have gone into town tonight. The festivities have already started.” He gave Robert a smile. “Thanks for the beer.” He stood.

“You’re welcome.”

Teague tipped his hat to Toby, then headed for the path.

Toby watched him go, grinning.

“What’s tickled you?”

He inclined his head in the direction Teague had taken. “He hasnoidea.” He flopped into the chair beside Robert.

“AndIhave no idea what you’re talking about, so that makes two of us.” He drank some more. “You finally wore Sol down, huh?”

Toby stared at him with widened eyes. “Hey, I didn’t do a thing. I haven’t been in contact with him since he left last week.”

Robert chuckled. “My, how restrained. Then you must’ve been pretty persuasive when you asked him to consider staying.”

Toby’s smile was definitely smug. “I don’t think him coming back has anything to do with me. I think it’sallabout Butch.”

Robert gave him a puzzled glance. “Something I don’t know?”

Toby shrugged. “My little push must’ve worked, that’s all.”

Something clicked into place. “You mentioned something about giving Sol and Butch a push a while back. What did you do?”

Silence.

Robert stared at him. “Toby? What did you do?”

Toby’s cheeks flushed. “I was going to tell you about it, actually.”

“Fine. Then tell me now.” The words came out with a little more weight than he’d intended.

“Wasn’t much. I…”

Robert didn’t think he’d ever seen Toby flustered. It was a revelation.

“Toby Merrow. What. Did. You. Do?”

“I just got Paul to pretend he was ill, that’s all.”

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