Page 59 of Embracing James

“Always with you.” He kissed his lover. The joke was corny, but he loved it because he could share this moment with Paul.

Paul panted and held him. James wasn’t sure how many minutes had passed before Paul finally spoke and he didn’t mind. He liked the silence and the sheer delight of the moment.

“I came to Norville not knowing I’d find someone who could make me whole,” Paul said. “I had no idea my future would be here. I just knew I had to come to this town, buy that theater and meet you. You changed me. You’ve helped me accept who I am and in my own skin.”

“You’re beautiful inside and out.” He kissed Paul. “That’s why I fell in love with you.”

“So are you.” Paul traced the line of James’ jaw. “Embracing you is like holding forever in my arms.”

“Then it’s a good thing I like being embraced.” He stared into Paul’s eyes and saw not only forever, but the love of a lifetime. He’d thought he had everything when he opened the salon, but he’d been wrong. He needed Doob to show he could be loved unconditionally and he needed Paul to show him he was worthy of that affection.

Now he truly had everything he could ever want.

“You do know this means we need to have round two, right?” Paul asked. “Make things even?”

James laughed as he clung to Paul. “Of course.” He’d never be bored with Paul. Not lonely or sad either. Things wouldn’t always be perfect, but as long as he had Paul embracing him, he’d be just fine.