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He distantly heard his phone buzz but ignored it as he studied the code, observing how Vlad’s solutions had progressed as he’d become more proficient with the language. If he was doing this kind of work on basic assignments, what would he pull out on this new project? His work was already on par with the most senior of his employees. The phone buzzed again, not stopping this time, and Zach realized it was ringing. He tapped his ear, only to notice that he’d never put the headset back in.

“Yeah?” he answered, somewhat brusquely as he thumbed the screen without looking at it, keeping his focus on Vladislav’s work.

The person on the other end cleared their throat.

“Uh, is this a bad time? I’m sorry. Are you busy? You must be super busy. I’m sorry. I waited, but you didn’t answer my texts, and I wasn’t sure…”

Carson.

“Hey, sweetheart.” Zach felt the tension leaving his shoulders that had built up as he’d studied the code. He didn’t like the uneasy sensation in his gut that this new guy gave him. He took a deep breath and turned his attention to Carson, the smile coming easily to his face and softening his tone. “I’m sorry. I was engrossed in a project. What’s up?”

“Well, I’m all done with work. I’m home now. Ready to head over to your place if you still wanted.” The uncertainty in Carson’s voice did things to Zach that he didn’t want to acknowledge. I can notfall for this kid. I can’t. And I can’t let him fall for me. Carson’s words finally registered with his brain, and Zach blinked, startled to discover that it was nearly dark out. “Shit, I’m sorry, Carson. I can leave here in a few minutes. What would you like for dinner? I’ll order on my way.”

“You,” came the reply, and Zach grinned.

“Oh, don’t worry, you’re getting that. But I haven’t eaten since you left my house this morning, so I need food.”

“I’ll eat whatever you want to feed me, daddy.”

Zach groaned. Carson’s bravado was back, and he knew exactly how to push Zach’s buttons.

“One hour. My house. I’m leaving now.”

“Yes, daddy.”

Zach bit his lip.

“You’re going to be the death of me, kid.”

“At least you’ll die happy?”

“Little shit,” Zach laughed as he hung up and shut down his computer.

****

The food arrived shortly after Zach got in the door, and Carson was right behind the food, carrying a grocery bag as well as the overnight bag Zach had told him to bring.

“Dessert,” he said in answer to Zach’s questioning look, with a decidedly mischievous grin on his face.

“Have you been a good boy today? Because only good boys get to have dessert.”

“Oh, daddy, I’ve been the best boy today,” Carson breathed, plastering himself to the front of Zach’s body.

“Hmm, I don’t know.”

“I’ll show you how good I can be.” He started to slide down, as if to give Zach a blowjob, but Zach stopped him with a hand tight in his hair, holding him up.

“As enticing as that may be, I really do want to eat first. And I’d like to change my clothes.”

Carson’s eyes went wide, a touch of panic flaring in them.

“But you said, you promised, that when I got here—”

Zach kissed him gently, soothing him.

“Shh, I know, baby, I know. I’m sorry. That’s my fault, I worked too late and wasn’t home on time. You’ll have to wait a little bit longer. I’m sorry. But you’re so good for me, you can do it, right? My sweet boy,” he cooed, pressing soft kisses to Carson’s face and neck. “So good for daddy,” he added, and the sound that came from Carson was worth saying the words. Carson mewled and went boneless in his arms, drawing a soft chuckle from Zach.

“The food is on the counter in the kitchen. Get dinner and drinks together for us, while I go change, okay, sweetheart? I’ll be right back.”