Page 198 of Should the Sky Fall

Cal’s expression grows incredibly fond. “Yes.”

Dawson grins. “More than you love donuts?”

Cal ruins it. He purses his lips and actuallyconsidersit. “I’d have to think about that.”

“Ugh, you ruined it! You’re the worst,” Dawson complains, trying to wriggle away when Cal tickles his side.

“Ruined what?”

“I just realized my life is like a movie.”

Cal tilts his head like a curious puppy. “In what way?”

“I mean, an actual movie. A favorite of mine too. Can’t believe I never put it together before.”

Interest sparks Cal’s gaze. “What movie?”

“I’m glad you asked.” Dawson slaps his flank, letting Cal slip out of him. “Come on. Let’s clean up. It’s time for you to meet Joe Black.”

Epilogue

2YEARSLATER

“You’ll walk a hole in that floor if you keep that up,” Cal says affectionately, sipping his champagne. The bubbles feel good on his tongue, making it taste much better than plain wine.

“Just let me pace dramatically, will you?” Dawson grumbles.

As endearing as it is to see him so nervous that he has to pace back and forth, it also breaks Cal’s heart. Dawson has no reason to be nervous. He’s incredibly talented, and people are going to love every single piece at the exhibition.

Eventually, he does stop and takes a big gulp of his champagne, fingers tapping against the flute. “What if no one likes it?”

Oh dear.

Cal closes the distance between them, winding an arm around Dawson’s waist and kissing his temple. “We’ve been here for half an hour. Have you seen anyone leave?” Because Cal hasn’t. Instead, more people are pouring in every minute.

Dawson gives their surroundings a tentative glance. “I don’t think so?”

“Me neither. People don’t stay for stuff they don’t like.”

Dawson purses his lips. “I don’t like it when you’re being a smartass.”

“You married me. I’m pretty sure you do like it.”

Dawson pouts. “Not when it’s directed at me.”

Cal is about to call him on the lie—or kiss him, he hasn’t decided yet—when Gabe’s voice interrupts.

“Aww, look at you two lovebirds!” He swaggers towards them with a cheeky grin, looking like a different person when wearing a dress shirt and well-fitting dark jeans. The only other time Cal's seen him all dressed up was for the wedding.

“Kind of you to show up,” Dawson scolds as he opens his arms for a hug, a bit of champagne splashing over the rim of the glass when Gabe crashes into him.

“Sorry, I got a bit, um, sidetracked.” He chuckles sheepishly and goes to give Cal a hug as well.

“Sidetracked, my ass,” Dawson grumbles. He looks around. “Where’s your boyfriend?”

“Trying to find parking.”

“You could’ve just walked.”