Page 2 of Secret

"Wow."

"It's OK, Chad. I'm not judging—the act... or the location."

Chad's eyes drifted in memory. "That hardly ever happens..." he said, trailing, then looked back to Demarco. "Itisfor employees only."

Demarco laughed, almost choking mid-sip. "You're quick. I like that. And no hard feelings here. I know you're not the bad guy. You and I have more in common with that than you know.

"Thanks and—actually... he was fucking me."

"Good for you. I never liked Mac. He was screwing around on my best friend for several years. So, you have my gratitude—"

"You're welcome." Chad smiled, infectiously. He was a beautiful cherub destined for the pantheon of gods-to-come.

"—even though you're responsible for me being alone here on Tuesday nights."

"Sorry."

"No worries. So how is Mac? Not that I care."

"We broke up. That was very short-lived. He's into... some things."

"I know. You don't have to explain."

Chad looked relieved, then confessed, "I'm just not a druggie."

"I get it. Good for you again. Cuteandsmart. I like you."

"Even though I was having sex with your best friend's boyfriend?"

"I'm much more forgiving of that kind of thing. I do miss him though." Demarco's phone vibrated on the counter. He picked it up, pressed the screen, and inserted an earbud. "Speak of the devil."

"Is that what you're calling me now?" Alec asked. "Has that replaced Wendigo, Sasquatch, and... Brawny Paper Towel Man?"

"Ennis is the Brawny man. You wish."

"His name is Tyler. And don't pretend that you don't know it anymore."

"Hey, doll. How's life on Witch mountain?"

"Har, har. Everything is great. Sorry, I'm late for Tuesday Tunes."

"You don't have to keep doing this, you know."

"Well, it was our night out. And I feel guilty for leaving you alone in the naked city."

"Honey... you don't want to see this city naked. I've seen enough of it."

"Is that Ellen Greene I hear in the background."

"Yes, unfortunately. You left and the show-tune selection went to pot."

"Tyler says hi."

Alec aimed the phone in his direction and Tyler waved tentatively. "Hey there, Demarco."

"Oh, honey...sobutch. I bet you use that deep voice with all the girls."

Tyler grinned. "Only my favorites."