Oliver opened his mouth, probably to protest, but faltered before the words came out. He glanced at William, then back at Adathan. “Thanks for your help,” he said, genuine warmth in his voice. “I appreciate it.”
Adathan beamed. “You’re welcome, Oliver,” he said, gathering the tiles. One slipped through his bandaged fingers.
Visions of broken glass and panicked eyes flashed through William’s mind as the tile hit the floor.
He stood up and picked up the ceramic teapot and cups. He couldn’t risk a repeat of the hotel incident.
———
From: Adathan S Eden
To: William Mitchell
Subject: I made a new friend!
Dear William,
I just met Kyle, our downstairs neighbor! He kindly invited me over for dinner tonight, so I won’t be home when you return.
I wish you a wonderful evening.
Warmest regards,
Adathan S Eden
William stopped in front of number five, his fist itching to knock. It was clear to him why Kyle had invited Adathan over, and it had nothing to do with kindness. William regretted not having warned Adathan about this douchebag.
He leaned closer to the door and listened, but their conversation was too muffled for him to make out. All he could discern was Adathan’s bright laugh—and the distinct smell of pizza from the Italian restaurant down the block. Adathan was either having the time of his life, or pretending to, and William had no way of knowing which it was.
Maybe he could make up a reason to speak with him, just to make sure he was all right...
No.
William stepped away from the door before he did something stupid. Adathan was a free man—free to hang out with whoever he wanted to. Even free to become a cam boy if he so pleased.
William shook that image from his mind, his heart squeezing with worry as he climbed the stairs to the fourth floor. He wishedhe could tell Adathan to be careful. It wasn’t that he didn’t trust him, but men like Kyle were notorious manipulators. With his angelic looks and his willingness to please, Adathan could land him a fortune.
As soon as William got his first paycheck from the raise, he was going to get Adathan a phone. It was clear now that Adathan had no intention of staying cooped up at home—which was a good thing.
But the laptop didn’t fit into his pocket.
William let out a sigh as he reached his apartment.
He spotted the drawing Adathan had left on the dining table—a stunning praying mantis perched atop a blooming orchid. William admired the intricate details and vivid colors, glad he’d thought to give Adathan his art supplies. It was absolutely gorgeous.
He read the note at the bottom.
I made some mac and cheese for you. It’s in the refrigerator. I hope you like it!
William perked up. There was no better way to end a workweek than with an ungodly amount of cheese. And a beer.
He dropped his backpack on a chair and took out the two beers he’d bought for tonight—the same they’d drunk at the hotel. He opened the nunchuck-wielding beaver one, and stored the tricycle-riding polar bear in the fridge for Adathan.
William’s phone buzzed as he took a swig. He grabbed it from his pocket and read the text Oliver had sent him.
? Oliver:Have you seen this? [Magnate Hector Leclerc Under Investigation for Sanctions Evasion and Tax Fraud]
William’s jaw dropped. He tapped the link, but his stupid phone chose that moment to shut down. Fucking battery barely lasted nine hours now.
