“It’s dreadful. And it continues to happen every day. These families dismiss their kids because they’re being truthful about who they are. If you ask me, it’s the exact opposite of being a good Christian. The worst part is, these shelters receive very little government funding. It’s up to private donors like me to keep them up and running. I’m actually looking to buy another building in the city, to open a fifth shelter. I’ll spend every penny I have to ensure no other gay kid has to endure what I did,” Dean said, resolute.
Mary smiled and placed a hand to her chest. “I have to say, I misjudged you. I thought you’d be like Sophie and her friends…another shallow, self-absorbed celebrity. I’m impressed with your desire to serve others. It’s very noble of you, and much more Christian than your parents, that’s for sure. You can count on my family’s support from now on.” Mary patted the back of Dean’s hand. “Colton’s very lucky to have a friend like you.” She stood and moved over to join her husband.
Dean settled back into his seat and tried to calm his racing heart and mind.
Well, that went well, I guess,he thought. At least he was able to sway Mary’s opinion of him to something more positive.
He looked down to the field, his eyes searching. There…there was Colton, running with the ball, sprinting toward the endzone.That’s what Dean needed to see, that’s what would calm his mind and soothe his frayed nerves.
Chapter 26
Colton
Colton stopped by the loft after practice to have dinner with Dean. Over time, it had become a weekly ritual.
Dean’s loft was close to the training facility so it was convenient, and it was nice to hang out and have dinner after a tough practice. And Colton hated to eat alone. Having a meal with Dean was the perfect end to any day.
On occasion, Dean surprised Colton with another sumptuous homemade meal, like the ravioli he made for his birthday, but normally, dinner consisted of something simple and healthy. Tonight, Colton prepared tuna steaks for the grill, and Dean worked on a salad with homemade vinaigrette.
As usual, music played throughout the loft.
Dean’s playlist was comprehensive, an eclectic mix of almost every genre and every song imaginable.
'Not a Bad Thing' by Justin Timberlake began to play.
“Oh man, I love this song.” Dean smiled and began to sing along…
Now all I want is to see you tomorrow. And every tomorrow, maybe you’ll let me borrow your heart.
Colton smiled. He loved Dean’s voice.
Colton stopped working on the tuna and watched Dean move around the kitchen as he obliviously continued to sing and work on the elements of the salad.
He noticed his perfect head of hair, his handsome face and masculine jawline, those deep fucking dimples, and those big, beautiful brown eyes.
Don’t act like it’s a bad thing to fall in love with me. Cause you might look around and find your dreams come true with me.
He eyed the curve of Dean's ears into his earlobes, his adorable button nose, the strong cleft in his chin, and the way his Adam's apple moved when he sang.
And how Dean’s tight t-shirt accentuated his chest, his biceps and triceps bulging under his sleeves.
His perfect round ass and muscular thighs in his little black shorts, and his incredibly sexy feet.
Don’t act like it’s a bad thing to fall in love with me. Cause you might look around and find your dreams come true with me.
And suddenly, like a blurry picture snapping into focus, Colton realized he wanted to kiss Dean.
His mind swam, he felt light-headed. Should he? He was reasonably sure Dean would like it, want him, and kiss him back. But what if he didn’t? What if it ruined their friendship? That would destroy Colton.
Sophie’s words began to echo in his head…
"You’re completely obsessed with Dean"
"I think you two are soulmates"
"You’re absolutely perfect for one another"
"It seems to me he’s just as smitten with you"
