Page 81 of The Colors Between Us

“I think aboutyoua lot.”

Roland knew that to be true, and the feeling was mutual. There wasn’t a decision or a move either man made without taking the other into account, including the decision to buy this new place. Donny always managed to give Roland all the things he needed, including space, without ever making Roland feel neglected. Donny walked a fine line, and Roland was aware of it, and felt overwhelmed with appreciation when he thought about all the manners and ways in which Donny loved him.

“That sounds like art therapy, and I am not a therapist.”

“You don’t need to be a therapist to give people outlets that can help them feel better about life, you stubborn jerk.”

Roland’s lip quirked up in a smile. “And when would I teach these classes?”

“I don’t know. I haven’t put a lot of thought into it.” Donny licked his lips and chewed the bottom one between his teeth.

“Liar.”

Donny squinted and nodded. “Maybe like the first Saturday. And alternate, like, kids, couples, single adults, then a showing or something. Because this whole space,” Donny said gesturing to the room, “is all about you and your art.”

“And you andourart,” Roland amended.

“That, too.” Donny held his hands out, palms up. Roland pushed off the door and crossed to him, sliding his palms over the top of Donny’s outstretched hands.

“I like that idea.” He tipped his face down and kissed the corner of Donny’s mouth. Donny parted his lips and flicked his tongue out, and Roland quickly nipped it between his teeth. Donny scrunched his face up and grabbed his hands.

“Mmmn. Can we build a secret lube cabinet in every room?” Donny asked with a strained laugh.

“Do I need to take you home?” Roland laughed, kissing him again.

“You need to take me somewhere with lube.”

“You’re insatiable.”

Donny hummed in agreement, then twined his fingers with Roland’s.

“We should paint down here,” Roland mused, looking around.

“That’s the point.”

Roland glanced at Donny out the corner of his eye.

“I meant the walls.”

“Oh,” Donny said with mock disappointment. “Well, what color?”

Roland raised their hands and pressed a kiss against the top of Donny’s hand before he smiled and replied, “Blue.”