Page 114 of Kicks

“Fuck taking it slow,” Eddie replied. “I’d rather be next to you on a beach with a beer.”

That did sound nice. Billy hadn’t been overseas for four years. The most he and Crystal had managed were a few long weekends away.

“I agree,” he said. “Let’s do what feels natural. Bollocks to being sensible.”

They kissed again.

Eddie drew away. “Now if you’ve finished talking. Permission to fuck your brains out?”

“Permission granted.”

The next morning, Billy woke before the alarm. Eddie had his arm slung over Billy’s waist. Fuck that was good. He lay there for a while, replaying the events of the night before over in his mind.

Everything had found its right place. He hadn’t been able to say that for a long time.

Eddie stirred. He drew Billy close and kissed the back of his neck.

Oh, you’re good, Edward Channing.

Billy luxuriated in the little waves of electricity dancing across his spine.

“Morning,” Eddie said, his breath tickling Billy’s ear.

“Morning.”

Eddie squeezed him close. “It’s shit I have to work. I’d rather stay in bed with you.”

“Probably not the best move. The day after you got the job.”

“I forgot. I’m an executive now.”

“You certainly are.”

“What are you doing with your day?”

Billy smiled. “I’ve got a meeting at the architects. Then I’m going to study for a masters. So I’ll spend the day researching what I need to do to kick that off.”

Eddie sat up and pulled Billy so they were facing each other.

God, he looks good in the morning.

“You never said.”

“I’m allowed a little bit of mystery.”

“I can see that,” Eddie replied. “It’s quite hot. What are you going to study?”

“Sustainable architecture. That’s my bag.”

“Am I dating a nerd?”

“Totally.”

“Sexy nerd. I like it.”

Billy snuggled into Eddie’s side. Still the alarm hadn’t gone off. He wouldn’t be moved until it did.

“I meant what I said,” Eddie said as he stroked Billy’s head.