Page 6 of The Bathhouse (Roosters #10)

Joseph was elated. His plan, although rapidly conceived when he recognized Barton, was progressing effortlessly.

He could read people like a pro. By interpreting Reed’s facial expressions, noticing his words and tone, and trusting his gut, Joseph could come up with responses on the fly.

Fortunately, he hadn’t had to improvise. He’d been honest with his replies.

Obviously, Reed enjoyed his company. Dinner would culminate in fucking, but first he wanted to gain Reed’s trust. It was important that Reed believe Joseph’s intentions were all about attraction and sex, not money.

Reed wasn’t dumb, he wouldn’t be happy that Joseph had lied to him when they first met.

Joseph confessed anyway, framing it as a youthful need to help his family, rather than a desire for a green card and life in the States. Actually, it was mostly true.

Even though fucking an employee could end in legal problems for Reed, hopefully their strong sexual attraction would override Reed’s doubts. Taking things slow was crucial, and Joseph was willing to put in the time because he anticipated a big return. And good sex as well.

Not that Joseph lacked for sex, but good sex, well, that was another story. He didn’t often have chemistry with the tourists he hooked up with. But as soon as he laid eyes on Reed Barton, he’d felt a familiar spark of arousal.

Part of the allure was their past, but this older Reed would have attracted him anyway.

Reed was different from most of the wealthy, overweight American men Joseph targeted.

His expensive clothes, Rolex, and the way he talked all shouted money and education.

He picked up the check with well-manicured fingers.

These were all things Joseph looked for, desirable traits in an American patsy, but this man was stunning as well.

Reed was lean and attractive. His graying hair had him well on the way to becoming a silver fox, and his piercing hazel eyes upped his sexy quotient.

He wouldn’t mind fucking Reed Barton or being fucked.

Either would work. Joseph would be whatever Reed needed.

Then he would use their mutual lust to his advantage.

Hopefully with this man, he would get more than fancy dinners and expensive gifts.

Joseph had a decent job at the Call Center, but his ultimate goal was a promotion.

He knew he could manage the business much better than Dave Torres, the present supervisor.

In time, Reed might be persuaded to expand operations and take him on as partner.

There were no limits to what they could accomplish.

A relationship between him and Reed would be beneficial for both. Reed would provide the business opportunities, and Joseph would keep Reed sexually satisfied. Of course, Joseph would also work hard to help the company prosper. It would be a win-win situation for both.

Their evening would end with sex, but not yet. Reed appeared to be a fan of historical places, so Joseph decided to take him to Intramuros.

* * *

Originally Reed had had quite different plans for the afternoon, but he had to admit that he enjoyed walking the cobblestoned streets of Intramuros with Joseph.

Reed had visited the Philippines many times, but his trips had always been about business and sex.

He knew little about the history of Manila.

Joseph knew a lot about Old Manila , and he made the history sound interesting. “How old is this Walled City?”

“It dates back to the Spanish occupation. The walls were built to protect it from foreign invasions.”

“It’s amazing how well preserved everything is.”

“The old Spanish houses were restored and turned into museums to maintain their old-world charm.”

When they tired of the museums and the hot sun, Joseph suggested a kalesa ride. “We’ve covered a large area on foot this afternoon. Let’s give our legs a rest.”

The horse-drawn carriages were a familiar sight, but Reed had no desire to ride in one. “Are you saying this old man can’t take it?” He grinned at Joseph to let him know he was joking.

“Not at all. It’s part of Philippine culture. Your tour won’t be complete without riding a kalesa.”

“I don’t know…”

Joseph smiled. “Come to Baywalk with me. We’ll ride in a kalesa and watch the sunset. It’s very romantic.”

“Are you flirting with me?”

Joseph looked him over seductively. “How can I not?”

Reed returned the look with a leer. “Then how can I refuse?”

Only a stone’s throw from Intramuros, the seaside promenade overlooking Manila Bay was alive with locals and tourists enjoying the cafes, live music, and street performers.

Joseph hailed a kalesa and they rode along the strip, watching the other horse-drawn carriages and the passing boats.

Reed had never done anything remotely like this.

He kept his personal life well under wraps.

Right now he felt uncomfortable and out of his element, like a cliché in a cheap romance novel.

What if his employees saw him with Joseph?

The only thing keeping him in the carriage was his desire to fuck this man.

Nervous and tense, Reed tried to loosen the kink in his neck. He twisted his head one way and then the other. Suddenly, Joseph reached over and caressed the tendons in the back of his neck. Reed flinched and pulled away. “What if someone sees us?”

Joseph seemed taken aback. “But we are enclosed by the canopy.”

“Still --”

“Are you ashamed to be seen with me?”

“No, it has nothing to do with you personally, but it’s not a good look. I’m your boss, after all. I can’t show favoritism.”

“So, it’s not about being gay?”

Reed sighed. “Well, that too. Look, I’m a very private person. My family doesn’t know I’m gay. And as far as business, well, it’s not a good idea for a man in my position to go around shouting, I’m gay from the rooftops.”

“Of course not, but if someone found out would it be the end of the world?”

Reed found himself getting irritated. “It could be the end of my business. Some of my associates are very conservative.”

“So you’re never able to be yourself? Living a hidden life is toxic. Believe me, I know.”

“It’s better this way. My sexual preferences are nobody’s business.”

There was a long pause as the two men looked warily at one another.

Joseph attempted to break the silence. “This is your choice. I accept it. Can we enjoy the sunset now? I know a private spot.”

Shaking his head, Reed recovered himself with an effort. “We’re here. We might as well.”

Joseph directed the kalesa driver to a secluded spot and looked to Reed for approval.

Reed looked around the deserted area and nodded.

Finally, he allowed himself to enjoy the sunset.

Reddish-gold hues filled the sky and he found himself responding to the beauty.

“Thanks for this. I don’t often get a chance to appreciate a sunset. ”

Joseph stared at Reed with his irresistible chocolate eyes. “You can travel the world, but sunsets in Manila are the most beautiful.”

“Maybe so, but I think it might be the company.”

Joseph licked his bottom lip with the tip of his tongue. “I think you’re right, Reed. As beautiful as it is, I can’t stop looking at you.”

Heat curled in Reed’s belly. He wanted to fuck this man, he wanted it bad, and they had yet to share a kiss. This was his opportunity, but he was still reluctant to take it.

Joseph made the first move. Leaning in close, he took Reed’s face between his hands and brushed his lips over Reed’s in a gentle kiss.

Reed shuddered, his senses seduced. He felt lightheaded and euphoric. The world disappeared around him. Forty years old and he’d never before been kissed like this. His previous lovers never lasted more than a night or two, and they were always anxious to get down to business.

The sun sank toward the horizon until it disappeared.

Now they were cloaked in shadows and Reed forgot everything but the man next to him.

He slipped his hand between Joseph’s legs and cupped the bulge in his slacks.

He wanted to feel that hot, hard shaft in the flesh, but Joseph’s moan brought him back to his senses. “We can’t do this here.”

Joseph groaned. “I know.”

“We’ll go to my hotel. I’ll go up first. Wait ten minutes, then come up.”

* * *

Reed left the door open for Joseph and he appeared exactly ten minutes later. Finally, they were truly alone. The feel-good chemicals that made a man hot and horny pulsed through Reed’s body.

Joseph might be older, but he was still hotter than any man had a right to be.

His soft lips just begged to be kissed. Reed’s gaze slid south and settled on the bulge straining the thin material of Joseph’s pants.

He ached to hold Joseph’s prick in his hand and taste the precum leaking from the tip…

He looked up and caught Joseph watching him.

The lust in Joseph’s eyes turned his insides to mush.

Reed took a step closer. Joseph strode into his arms and Reed let out a moan as they embraced.

Their swollen cocks rubbed and heat flared at Reed’s groin.

He held Joseph tighter against his body and kissed him passionately.

They broke for a breath and Joseph, flushed and panting, slipped from Reed’s arms. He went to his knees tugging Reed’s slacks down with him. Joseph mouthed the silky boxers covering Reed’s erection.

Groaning, Reed threaded his fingers in Joseph’s thick black hair. “Oh, fuck.”

As Joseph sucked on the tip of Reed’s cock, Reed felt the wet heat through the fabric. He tightened his grip on Joseph’s hair and pulled. “Joseph, please.”

Joseph looked up at Reed with eyes so dark they looked black. “Tell me what you want, Pogi.”

Reed always liked being in control and he’d been a top for many years, but now all he could think of was his need to be filled. This was new and he hesitated. “Joseph…”

Joseph stood. “I know. Let me take care of you.”