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Story: Cameron & Rylan

“No. I like it. To be honest, I’ve never connected with anyone as fast as I have with you. Other than Issa and Suzy, I find it hard to make connections.”

He nodded. “I understand, I’m the same way. We should head home.”

Rylan slid inside the car and after Cameron shut the door, he settled against the luscious leather seats before he glanced up and watched Cameron walk around the car. Then another thought popped into his head and he had to know. So when Cameron settled into his seat with his seat belt fastened, he asked.

“You don’t mind I’m gay?”

“It’s part of who you are and I’m staring to realize that I like you, all of you.”

Rylan smiled at him. “How do you identify?”

Cameron shrugged “I’ve dated women in the past, but I’ve never gotten close enough to sustain a relationship and I’ve never gotten physical with anyone. But the connection I’ve lacked with everyone else, I feel with you. I may be gay or bi, but at this moment, I don’t know.”

“How old are you?”

“Twenty-one.”

“Me too.”

Cameron reached for his hand. “I would never hurt you or pressure you into something you’re not ready for. But I have the room in my house and I didn’t like the anger on Tristan’s face as he searched for you in the club. I would feel better if you stay with me.”

Rylan scoffed. “That’s a laugh.”

“What part?”

“Iamattracted to you. Who wouldn’t be? But you’re right, Tristan has gotten physical before and wouldn’t hesitate once he saw me. But I feel as though I’m taking advantage of you.”

“Do you cook?”

Rylan blinked at the change in conversation. “No, I never learned how and I forget to grab something when I’m busy.”

“Well, I know how and I love to cook. So, we’ll go shopping together. And I might let you help pay.” Cameron thought about that for a moment. “Okay, I won’t, but I don’t mind cooking and I’m hoping it will entice you to stay? I want to get to know you, Rylan. No ulterior motives, I promise.”

Unable to stop his heart from soaring at the thought of getting to know Cameron, he had to ask. “Are you sure?”

Cameron nodded. “As long as you’re comfortable with me. I know my size can intimidate—”

“I am… comfortable with you, I mean. You don’t scare me, Cameron. I feel safe with you.”

Cameron started the car and drove away from the diner. He reached for Rylan’s hand and squeezed. “Good, I’m glad.”

Rylan felt himself relax for the first time in a long time.