Page 115 of Kicks

“Which bit?”

“All of it but to be more specific, going away. James still has a couple of months until he leaves. I’ll spin it that I don’t want to be away during my critical first quarter.”

Billy grinned. “You are crafty. I still need to keep an eye on you.”

“Both preferably. As much as possible.”

“Fine,” Billy replied. “I won’t start any new projects until we get back. I reckon I can be free in a week.”

“This is exciting,” Eddie said. “Let’s get a villa. Clothing optional.”

Just as Billy was about to voice his approval, the alarm sounded.

Eddie groaned.

“Do you want to come round tonight?” Billy asked. He was determined this would be a temporary cold turkey.

“Too right I do,” Eddie replied. “This taking it steady thing is so easy.”

“Right,” Billy said, making to get up.

“No,” Eddie cried.

They kissed.

“I haven’t brushed my teeth,” Billy said.

“Neither have I,” Eddie replied.

He stole another kiss.

“Come on,” Billy said. “You need to get moving. I’ll get a cab home and shower.”

“Why not get in with me? Conserve water and all that.”

“And that would definitely make you late. Down, boy.”

They got out of bed. Billy averted his eyes from Eddie’s stunning body.

A man only has so much will power.

Billy threw last night’s clothes on. It had been a long time since he’d done that. He found he quite liked it. Although from now on there would always be an overnight bag with full toiletry selection.

Eddie put on his robe. Billy followed him out of the room.

“Oh, thank goodness for that,” Scott exclaimed.

He and Tyler were on the sofas eating cereal.

“Finally, they come up for air,” Tyler added.

“Shut it, you two,” Eddie said.

Shyness overcame Billy. He held on to Eddie’s hand.

Scott leapt up and flung his arms around both of them. “I’m really pleased.”

Tyler joined them in the mass hug. “Me too. You’re good together.”