He watches me from the bed, his expression unreadable.
I hesitate, then add, “That’s the main reason I’m going. Officially, it’s about career plans, but really… I want to tell them. I want to stop hiding. I want to live like a free man.”
Remi crosses the room in two strides and gently cups my face in his hands.
“I’m so proud of you, Sebastian,” he says, his voice full of warmth. “You’re the bravest person I know.”
He leans in, brushing his nose against mine. His voice softens, low and steady. “Coming out to your parents is a huge step… but don’t forget, it’syourchoice. You don’t owe anyone anything untilyou’reready.”
“I am ready,” I say, steady now. “I can’t hide anymore.”
“Okay, baby.” His voice is gentle but firm. “Just know I’m here for you. Call me, whatever happens. I’ll come.”
He pauses, his gaze locking with mine. “You know you can count on me, right?”
Emotion wells up in my chest, thick and sudden. It nearly chokes me. “I do, Remi. I trust you.”
“And I trustyou, Seb.”
He pulls me into a hug, resting his forehead against mine. For a moment, we just breathe, wrapped in something tender and unspoken.
“Time to go, huh?” he whispers.
I nod, unable to get the words out.
I throw on a black hoodie, grab my suitcase, and head for the door.
“I’m coming with you,” he says, already moving.
“No, it’s fine. Paddington’s close, and you need sleep, you’ve got work tomorrow.”
But he just laughs, defiant. “I’m not letting you tackle the stairs with that…monstrosity.”
He eyes my fuchsia suitcase like it personally offended him.
“Hey! Don’t insult her; she’s alimited edition Lanvin, exclusive to France!”
He bursts out laughing, so hard he nearly trips pulling on his joggers and T-shirt.
I get a little too distracted watching him slip into his clothes, far too quickly for my taste. That body should come with a warning label.
“Where were we?” I tease. “Ah, right, you never offered to help me carry my things the day I moved in.”
“Low blow,” he groans, walking toward me with mock guilt painted all over his face.
“I admit it. I was a jerk that day.” He lifts my chin between his fingers, eyes soft. “But I was terrified. And the second I saw you, everything short-circuited. Do you forgive me?”
I try to scowl, but those puppy eyes are impossible to resist.
“Fine. But I’m plotting my revenge.”
“Can’t wait,” he grins. “Especially if it involves you in lace.”
“Maybe,” I reply, raising an eyebrow. “Though that sounds more like a reward.”
“Guess I’ll have to wait and find out.” He kisses me sweetly, and then grabs my suitcase. “Come on, we’ll miss your train.”
Like a true gentleman, he lugs my suitcase down the stairs and all the way to Paddington, barely breaking a sweat.
