Mary pulled back quickly with an‘I’m totally fucking serious’face and poked Colton in his sternum. “But I need grandkids! This doesn’t let you off the hook, mister!”
Colton laughed loudly, rolling his eyes. Immediately, he thought of Aiden and how much he would love to have a grandma. “I think I can do that. Don’t worry.”
Peter, always the realist, sat back in his chair and asked bluntly. “So, are you going to tell the coach? The team?”
Colton sighed. “Well, we discussed that. I’m really nervous about telling anyone in the league, based on what’s happened with the other players who came out. Dean supports whatever I decide to do, which I appreciate. I guess I’m in a lets-wait-and-see type of situation.”
Peter patted his hand. “You know I’m a big proponent of honesty. If you don’t tell them and it comes out in the media, it could really hurt your team dynamic.” Peter’s expression shifted from practical to caring father. “But it’s your decision, and that’s actually probably a smart thing to do. Wait it out and assess the situation before moving any further. And it’s really nice that Dean is so understanding of your situation.”
Colton beamed with a wide smile. “He’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I don’t know how I got so lucky.” His gaze nervously bounced between his parents as the remainder of his nerves sizzled in his stomach. “But are you guys ok with it? Are you happy for me? You’re not upset?”
Mary shot a quick glance at Peter, then looked to Colton. "I can't lie. It worries me a little. If this got out it could ruin your career. I remember back on the tennis circuit, things were prettytoxic. There were no out men and any women that were out were treated horribly and often shunned. But I can see how happy you are, and all I want is for you to be happy and healthy. Please just promise me you'll be careful."
"I promise, Mom, I'll be fine."
“And you were right. It was a surprise.” Peter smiled as he took Mary's hand. “But we both really like Dean. He’s a great guy. You could do a whole lot worse!”
Colton snickered. “Thanks, Dad. You’re definitely right about that. I hit the fucking jackpot with Dean!”
“Language!” Mary chastised, playfully smacking his arm.
Chapter 34
Dean
Colton: Hey, baby! Meet me at home at 5pm, and dress for a night out.
Dean: You got it, hot stuff! See you soon. XOXO
Dean was already home and dressed when Colton arrived. He wore a tapered, fitted black button down, slightly sheer in shiny material that perfectly framed the muscles of his torso. His tight gray pants left little to the imagination. They screamed, “Hey, I’m hot. Check out my ass, thighs, and crotch."
Colton gasped sharply. “Holy shit, baby! Do youhaveto look this sexy? We’re never gonna get out of here tonight with you looking like that!”
Dean chuckled and wrapped his arms around Colton’s waist, pulling him into a crushing kiss. “What?! I’ve gotta look good for my man, don’t I?”
Colton smiled. “And you certainly do! I wanna fuck you right here.”
Dean snickered and gently shoved him away. “So I don’t get a hint? What are we doing tonight?”
Colton smirked with a playful glint in his eye. “Remember you said a few weeks ago that we’ve never been on a real date? Well, I’m taking you on a real date tonight.”
“Shut up!” Dean lightly shoved Colton’s shoulder. “For real? Oh my God, I’m so excited!”
Dean grinned from ear to ear, doing a little happy dance, bouncing on his toes like a little boy, his dimples on full display.
Colton pecked his lips once more. “Just give me a few minutes and we’ll head out.” He winked and hurried to get changed.
A short time later, Colton emerged, changed into his outfit for date night. Now it was Dean’s turn to gasp outwardly. Colton looked absolutely delicious in blue trousers, a navy button down with micro polka dots, and a blue blazer. Dean had to literally wipe the drool from the side of his mouth, and Colton snickered.
“I’m guessing that means you like my outfit?”
“Um…fuck yeah! You look like a total snack tonight.” Dean kissed his cheek.
Colton grabbed his keys with a laugh. “Save that for when we get home.” He winked and opened the door for Dean.
As they drove to the mystery date, Dean noticed Colton merge onto the Bayshore Freeway. “Are we going downtown?”
Colton grinned ear to ear. “No, not really. It’s better. Trust me.”
