“So what you’re saying, I think,” Chess picked up the narrative, “is that you always had feelings for each other? I’m sensing there’s a bigger story.”
Once again, Wolf looked to him, and Spencer kind of loved that Wolf, who moved through the courtroom and the legal world with power and determination, stumbled around as much as anyone when it came to life, love, and all its messiness.
“I think we’ve both made mistakes. I was looking for love and acceptance from all the guys I slept with. Growing up bullied and preyed upon by my teacher, all I wanted was someone to love me for who I was. I threw myself into the scene at college because I’d never been free to be…me. After a while, I wanted something more real but didn’t know how to go about it. And certainly not with Wolf, who pushed me away at every turn. So I kept doing what I always did.”
Wolf continued. “Our wires were crossed from the start. I might’ve been attracted to him, but I was still lost in my head over my fucked-up life. Meanwhile, I thought Spence wasn’t interested in a lasting relationship. I didn’t want to be with him, and a day later see him with other men. So I kept away.”
“It wouldn’t have happened. Being with you would’ve ruined me for anyone else.” Spencer kissed his cheek.
“I know,” Wolf replied smugly.
“I’m not used to this.” Wide-eyed, Elliot looked from him to Wolf, then back again. “All I see is you two fighting and butting heads.”
Spencer opened his mouth, and Wolf silenced him with a hard kiss that ended in laughter. “Don’t say it.”
“Who, me?” He fluttered his lashes to the groans of all his friends. “Such a dirty mind, Wolfie.” He patted his cheek. “I love it.”
***
The following day, with a spring in his step, Spencer entered his office. God knew he should be tired, considering they hadn’t gotten rid of the guys until after one in the morning. But it had been a long time since he’d awakened to someone snuggled up next to him, and when Wolf’s sleepy eyes captured his, Spencer decided it was worth being late for work to spend an extra hour to hear Wolf call out his name. God, he must be in love. It was the only excuse that made sense. Why else would he go with Wolf to the gym at six in the morning, then take a shower and have breakfast together?
Together.Him and Wolf. Like a real couple. How incredibly cute and domesticated. It should give him the hives and make him want to run in the opposite direction.
Damn, he loved it.
Coffee in hand, Spencer booted up his computer to check his calendar and go over the monthly sales reports. He couldn’t wait to see if Todd’s line was selling as well as anticipated.
His phone buzzed, and seeing it was Christo, he took a big gulp of coffee. The man never called unless it was important. Maybe he was getting a bonus because of Todd’s successful launch.
“Good morning, Christo.”
“Spencer, please come to my office.”
At Christo’s subdued tone, Spencer’s brow furrowed. “Sure. Can you tell me what it’s about?”
“It’ll take you two minutes to get here. It can wait.”
Curious but unconcerned, Spencer took his coffee with him and walked down the hallway to Christo’s area. Margo, Christo’s secretary, didn’t give him her usual cheery smile, and a dart of fear shot through him.
“Go ahead inside.”
When he entered the spacious office, he wasn’t drawn to the incredible view of the Manhattan skyline from the six-foot windows. Instead, his attention was fixed on Christo, who sat with a troubled expression on his face. Donald sat next to him, and Spencer’s antennae pinged. That little shit was never up to anything good where he was concerned, and he could swear he saw the little rat bastard hiding a smile.
“Have a seat.”
“Good morning.”
When no one voiced a return greeting, or even attempted a smile, Spencer’s heart thudded. He sat and cradled the cup of coffee in his hands.
“I received some disturbing news this morning.”
“Oh? About what?”
Christo tipped his head to the side. “I’ll let Donald start.”
Bracing himself, Spencer feigned nonchalance.
“It’s Sergio. He was awfully upset about Roberto when he called this morning.”
