Page 26 of Wrapped in Red

“Who said I’d be doing the fucking?” Seth reached for his phone before he started laughing. “You thought you were the only bottom in this friendship? I like it both ways, babe.”

I stared into my cup of coffee. “There are some things that I do not need to know about you, boo, and that was one of them. We’re close, but did we have to get that close?”

“Mm, we’re not as close as you and Carson.” He grinned.

I leaned back against my chair. “Stop staring at me like that.”

Seth chuckled. “You’ve always been super close, shared a bed, were cuddly, huggy friends. Wouldn’t it just make sense for the two of you to take the next step?”

“No.” I grunted. “I mean, I never looked at CC like that.”

But hadn’t I? We went to prom together because we were the only gay kids in our high school. He bought me a freaking corsage even though I didn’t ask for one. His family made sure I had a safe space while my own made sure I hadn’t.

Seth tapped the table with his fingers. “You’re thinking about it now.”

“Why did you make me think?” I grabbed at my hair and yanked.

“Babe.” He smiled. “It’s kismet.”

“Fuck you and your kismet.”

Seth threw his head back, laughing. “Serious question. Did you tell him about—”

“No.” I shook my head.

Seth’s brows dipped. “Okay, but can I at least—”

“Nope. We don’t say his name in this house. Not anymore,” I snarled. “Next topic.” I didn’t want to talk about him. I should have had him arrested for what he did to me, but his grandfather had too much money. The restraining order would have to do.

He sighed loudly. “You didn’t tell Carson about that either, did you? He’s going to be so pissed when he finds out.”

“No, he won’t. You know why? Because no one is going to tell him.” I dropped my chin. “So don’t go opening that mouth of yours, babe, because I know how much you like to talk. This is our secret. Ours, not anyone else.”

Seth looked horrified. “I would never.”

“You better not,” I snapped.

He sighed softly. “Fine. How about you let me take you out for an early lunch? That tavern you’re always talking about was open when I drove by.”

“That’s CC’s father’s place.” I shook my head.

Seth grinned. “I’m well aware of that. Put your shoes and makeup on, Ezra. We’re going out.”