Page 6 of Sebastian

“That’s two nos.” I raise an eyebrow and give him a mischievous grin. “I’m just spreading the holiday cheer. After all, ‘tis the season, right?”

Paolo shakes his head in resignation, realizing my approach tonight is set in stone.

“I’m going to go find her. It’s madness out there, and it already took a lot of convincing for her to come in the first place,” Taylor explains, primarily to Paolo and glaring at me while he gives me a murderous look. “I just hope she isn’t outside calling for a car.”

Taylor slips away, leaving Paolo and me alone. He fixes me with a stern look, clearly frustrated by my antics.

“Seb, I told you before to tone it down. Chloe is very conservative regarding men, and you’re being, well, you are not cool tonight. Just stay away from her.”

He snags a glass of champagne from a roaming waiter being served to my friends clustered inside the house waiting for the charity party to end so the real fun can begin.I chuckle, unfazed by his disapproval.

“Paolo, my dear friend, where’s the fun in that? This is my party, after all. Let’s enjoy it!”

Paolo shakes his head.

“Enjoy it all you want but be nice to her. For Taylor’s sake and mine too.”

“You just want to get laid, is all,” I challenge, and a slight grin rises on his face that even the champagne glass can’t hide when he downs it.

“Already did.”

He gives me a wink and throws up a hand at Giovanni, walking through the room on his way upstairs to the movie theater. Not that Paolo getting laid has ever bothered me. Usually, I never ask, nor does he volunteer, but seeing how Paolo and Taylor interact stirs something in me. Their connection is evident, and how they look at each other with tenderness and affection makes me envious. It’s a feeling I rarely experience, but it’s hard to ignore today.

I’ve always been the one to enjoy the thrill of the chase, the excitement of a new encounter. But seeing the depth of their bond, I can’t help but wonder if there’s something more to be found in a genuine, loving relationship. It’s a notion I’ve often pushed aside in favor of my carefree lifestyle, but now, it lingers in my mind, leaving me longing for something real. For someone to like me for me and no other reason at all.

“Alrighty, I’m going to hang with my girl. Try not to cause too much trouble.” He sets his empty glass on the table and straightens his Christmas tie in the mirror.

“No promises, my friend. Right now, I gotta go play Santa to the kids and not the hot MILF accompanying Taylor.”

I give him a playful punch on the arm when our eyes catch in the reflection.Paolo chuckles at my remark.

“Chloe isn’t a MILF. I think she has a cat or something.”

“Cats suck.” I raise an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. “But she’s single, eh?”

“Yeah, she’s single. But I didn’t think you had a thing for older women, Seb. You grilled me on the court when I first told you about making Taylor my girlfriend, remember?”

I chuckle, considering his observation.

“Yeah, I remember. Well, there’s a first time for everything, my friend. Who knows? Maybe tonight will be the night I discover your newfound appreciation for the charms of an older woman.”

Paolo shakes his head, annoyed by my adventurous spirit. “Just remember, she’s Taylor’s friend and my colleague. Be respectful.”

“Always with the respect, Paolo. Doesn’t it get tiring having to remind me to be a gentleman?” I mimic his accent when he uses that phrase on me.

He steps away from the mirror and pats me sympathetically on the shoulder.

“Doesn’t it get tiring being reminded?”

“Only half the time.” I give him a light shove, and we both break into smiles. “Get out of here and have some fun. I’ve got Santa Sebastian stuff to do.”

With that, I send Paolo off to enjoy his evening while I prepare to take on the role of Santa Claus for the kids and embark on an adventure of my own with a hot, skinny blond currently miffed on my property.

“Jiles, let’s get this party started! Where’s my spotlight and microphone?”

4

CHLOE

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