Brogan leaned in and kissed him with a closeness that made the world fall away. Archie’s hands slid up his back, pulling him in, and Brogan let himself be held.
They sank under the sheets, limbs tangled, laughter low and breathless between kisses. Brogan pressed his forehead to Archie’s.
“This might be our best Christmas vacation.”
Archie smiled, eyes shining. “Even though it’s our first?”
“Especially because it’s our first.” Brogan kissed him again, slow and certain, like he finally knew exactly where they belonged. Always together.
“But we can’t compare it to another?”
“Oh, there will be many others.” Brogan kissed him again. “By the way, any time you want to top, just tell me. I’m good with that too.”
That comment sent Archie smiling again.
Chapter Six
Archie
Archie kissed Brogan goodbyeoutside the mall entrance, quick and soft, the kind of kiss that said I’ll miss you even for an hour. Brogan gave him a wink and a playful swat on the butt before heading off toward the electronics store. Archie grinned and turned toward the men’s shop, already mentally cataloging what Brogan might actually wear versus what he’d pretend to like.
The sweater was easy because he envisioned Brogan wearing the soft navy pullover sweater, just the right mix of cozy and masculine. The smartwatch took longer. Brogan had mentioned wanting one a month ago, but never took the time to get it. Archie stood at the display case, comparing specs like he knew what he was doing, finally picking the one with all the bells and whistles. Brogan would try to act chill about it, but Archie knew he’d be thrilled. He also purchased items for the others.
Then came the bracelet. Archie wandered into the jewelry store on impulse, heart thudding a little. He picked out a slim gold band, simple but elegant, and had it engraved: I love you — Archie. The clerk raised an eyebrow, but Archie just smiled. It felt right.
Archie found a quiet spot and put money on his father’s books and wished him a Merry Christmas.
They’d agreed to meet back at two, but just as Archie was juggling two oversized shopping bags and a roll of glittery wrapping paper, his phone buzzed. Aunt Laura.
“Hey, sweetheart,” she said when he answered. “Are you free for lunch?”
Archie hesitated, glancing. “Yeah. I’ve got a little window. Where?”
“Let’s meet at the local place. Maggie’s Café. I’ll grab us a booth.”
Archie arrived ten minutes later, bags bumping against his legs as he pushed through the door. The place smelled of grilled cheese and cinnamon tea. Aunt Laura spotted him instantly.
“Archie!” she called, waving from a corner booth.
He smiled and walked over, setting the bags down before pulling her into a hug. She held him tight, longer than usual.
She told him she was treating him to lunch and to order whatever he wanted. They ordered comfort food—Aunt Laura got the tomato basil soup and a turkey club, and Archie went for a bacon cheeseburger and sweet potato fries. He hadn’t realized how hungry he was until the plate hit the table.
“I’m glad you came,” she said, stirring her tea. “I wanted to talk to you. About your uncle.”
Archie’s jaw tightened, but he nodded. “Okay.”
“I’m sorry for how he acted,” she whispered. “It was cruel. And it’s not how a family should treat each other.”
Archie looked down at his fries, picking one up and breaking it in half. “I didn’t expect him to be thrilled, but… yeah. It hurt.”
Laura reached across the table, her fingers brushing his. “I know you don’t have a mother, Archie. And I can’t replace her. But I want to be that person for you, if you’ll let me.”
Archie blinked, caught off guard. His throat tightened, and he fought the sting behind his eyes. “Aunt Laura…”
“You’re part of this family,” she said. “The Star family. And I want you to feel that. We’re having Christmas dinner at Rafael’s this year. I want you and Brogan there. No excuses.”
Archie hesitated. “Even with Uncle David?”
