“Yes,” Bennett confirmed. “Let’s go.”
Jasper’s smile was immediate and genuine. “Look at you. Being spontaneous.”
“Don’t get used to it,” Bennett replied, but there was no bite in it.
They left early Saturday morning.Bennett drove because Jasper claimed he needed coffee before functioning. The highway stretched ahead of them, traffic thinning as the city gave way to smaller towns and eventually to trees.
Jasper handled the music. Bennett didn’t argue about it.
“You haven’t argued about a single song choice,” Jasper observed.
“I’m picking my battles,” Bennett replied.
“I like it.”
The cabin appeared after they turned off the main road, tucked between pines with a view of a small lake. It was modestbut well-maintained. Wood siding. A stone chimney. A deck that wrapped around two sides.
“This is nice,” Bennett admitted as they pulled up.
“I told you,” Jasper said.
Inside, the space was open and warm. A kitchen with worn counters. A living area with a fireplace. Two bedrooms, though Bennett suspected they’d only need one.
They unpacked quickly. Bennett organized their supplies with more precision than necessary. Jasper watched him with fond amusement.
“You can’t help yourself,” Jasper said.
“I like order,” Bennett replied.
“I know.” Jasper stepped closer. “It’s one of the things I like about you.”
Bennett looked up. “One of.”
“There are several,” Jasper said. “I could list them.”
“Please don’t.”
Jasper kissed him instead. Slow and easy. The kind of kiss that said they had time.
When they pulled apart, Bennett rested his forehead against Jasper’s.
“This is good,” Bennett said quietly.
“It is,” Jasper agreed.
They spent the afternoon exploring.The lake was cold but clear. They walked the perimeter, boots crunching on pine needles and fallen leaves. Jasper pointed out birds Bennett couldn’t identify. Bennett pointed out the most efficient path back to the cabin.
“You’re incorrigible,” Jasper said.
“I’m practical.”
“You’re both.”
That evening, they cooked together. Jasper handled the actual cooking. Bennett managed logistics, handing over ingredients with the precision of a surgical assistant.
“You’re very good at this,” Jasper observed.
“At what?”
