Paul was overcome by a momentary sensation of giddiness. Emotions tumbled and collided within him: gratitude, fear, apprehension and one that soared above all of them—anticipation.
“I do have one stipulation, however.”
Paul stilled. “Yes?”
“Youchoose the elements.”
He laughed. “That’s like letting a little kid loose in a sweet shop. I wouldn’t know where to start.”
“Then might I suggest my boxes as a starting point? Take a look at their contents, see if any of it ticksyourboxes. Maybe do a little research online. I’m open to any suggestions.” Adam smiled. “You won’t be the only one having fun, you know.” Then his smile faltered. “But remember, there might be some activities I’d find more of a… challenge.”
Paul swallowed. “Understood.” He waited for Adam’s next words, anticipating what they’d be.
This is just sex, all right? This is the two of us assuring our mutual needs are met. No romantic entanglements, no guilt, just a sexual relationship with no strings.
His stomach clenched. He was already way past the point of thinking of Adam in a purely physical sense.But if that’s how he wants it…What choice did Paul have, but to go along with it?
Except all Adam did was drink his coffee, Paul’s hand still in his.
The words never came.
Paul didn’t know what to make of it.
“What about… sleeping arrangements?” he asked.
Adam smiled. “I have no objection to you sharing my bed now and again. The thought of waking up with a warm body next to me is extremely appealing. Having said that, I don’t think it should be an every night occurrence. We spend our days together: I wouldn’t want us to be forever in each other’s pockets.” He relaxed against the cushions. “That’s everything, I think. Does that all sound acceptable?”
Acceptable? I’m going to be having sex with my gorgeous boss on a regular basis, share his bed, explore my kinkier side… What is there not to like?
He smiled. “Yes, that’s fine.”
Adam let go of Paul’s hand, reached over the arm of the couch, and picked up a CD. “What’s this one?” he asked Paul.
“Tchaikovsky. I’ll put it on.”
Paul’s head was still spinning.
This is a dream, right?
Adam drew his long legs up under him, making himself comfortable.
“Want me to leave you alone?” Paul asked. The music poured out of the speakers, washing over him.
“Only if you want to.” Adam’s smile was still evident.
That was the problem.
Paul wanted to stay, for as long as Adam would let him.
Paul stood at his bedroom door, listening to the faint swell of Tchaikovsky drifting up the stairs. He’d left Adam curled on the sofa, that small smile still softening his face.
God, he wanted to go back downstairs. The invitation had been there, hadn’t it? The warmth of Adam’s hand still lingered in his, the steady assurance of his voice.
I have no objection to you sharing my bed now and again.
That wasn’t a rejection. It was as close to an offer as Adam knew how to give.
So why am I hesitating?
