Page 68 of Secret

"Sweet. So, no more social-worker certification homework?"

"No. We were heading down that road anyway... but I would say that it is now permanently on the back-burner."

"And Wilson?"

"Oh, my God, Alec. He's my heart. You should hear him do Ru."

"SILENCE..."Alec shouted, and Tyler gave him a quizzical glance from the kitchen."I have made my decision."

"Yes!" Demarco exclaimed. "That's exactly what I'm talking about. It's like a little version of you and me running around."

"That's pretty scary."

"You'll love him, Alec... I think I want more. There's a younger boy that I met at the center this week. His name is Tommy. So adorable."

"Oh, Lord. Now she's Angelina Jolie."

"Or Madonna."

"They both like hot blonds and kids."

"I'm thinking three though. I don't need six."

"I am so happy for you, D. You deserve it. Wait— isn't that what you told me... not too long ago?"

"Maybe."

"It is," said Alec. "And look at us. We used to live for Tuesday Tunes and now we're singing one of our own."

"Let's get together soon. I mean it... all of us... either here or there."

"We will. I promise. But first... Mama's going to Hollywood."

"Bitch, don't call me mama."

Alec laughed. "Oh, I'm sorry... I meantbig Mama."

"You know... Montana is between here and there. Don't make me get off the plane and come smack you."

"Call often. I need to know everything. I am already on pins and needles."

Demarco raised his voice. "What does Mr. Tyler think?"

Tyler was bringing plates to the table for him and Alec. "Oh," he said. "Am I in this conversation?"

"Don't be a coy cowboy," said Demarco. "I saw you back in that kitchen the whole time... giving me those shady glances."

"No shade," Tyler said, with a grin—eyes warm enough to soften granite. "I'm very happy for you, D. You've had a lot of rough road this year. It's about time things turned around. I think you and Jack were lucky to find each other and... well, now you're starting a family and... I think it's just... the bomb diggity."

"I have no idea what that means," Demarco said, staring at Tyler dreamily. "But I could listen to you talk all day."

"I'll tell you what it means," said Alec. "He's been helping me with adjectives for my new book today and... apparently, he still is."

Tyler blushed. "Well, it's better than that'sgreat... or that'sfantastic... or that'sawesome."

"You're right," Alec said, giving him a peck on the cheek. "It's perfect. And so are you. And D, you were right about the coy part...How to Commit Murderis one of his favorite television shows.

Tyler's eyes widened. "Oh. Oh... wow. This Sheronda person... she does that show too?"