William’s chest filled with yearning as he studied Adathan’s features—the blond lashes fanned against his rosy cheeks, the dusting of freckles on his button nose, the plump lips pursing just slightly, as if awaiting a kiss.
William averted his gaze, a groan of despair dying in his throat. He’d really fucked up this time. He should have accepted Oliver’s offer to take Adathan in right from the beginning.
Maybe he could still change his mind?
No, he couldn’t. Not only would Adathan be devastated, but Oliver was still mentally recovering from the accident. He’d been exhausted after spending just ten hours with Adathan. It would be unfair to ask more of him just because William couldn’t control his feelings.
So, what were his options?
William looked back at Adathan. Deep down, he knew he could make him happy—or at least, not unhappy. All he wished was for Adathan to have a safe and comfortable life. So, why did it feel so selfish to want to give in?
Because Adathan could make him happy as well?
Adathan inhaled deeply, his eyes fluttering open. He looked up, meeting William’s gaze with a soft smile.
William’s heart did all the things again. “Hey,” he whispered hoarsely. “Sleep well?”
Adathan nodded. He stretched his legs with a low groan, then turned and climbed out of bed. He grabbed his pillow and hurried out of the room, like he was late for work or something.
O. . .kay. . .
William sat up, wincing at his screaming bladder. He’d had justonebeer. Why did it feel as if he’d chugged a whole keg?
He put his robe on and walked toward the door. He stopped halfway, his heart squeezing as a realization set in. Last night, he told Adathan he could go back to the way he used to be. Would William find him standing with his hand on his heart, declaring he was ready to serve him?
Would they be going back to square one?
William suppressed a sigh. He’d told Adathan he’d support him no matter what. So he would.
But first . . .
He made a beeline for the bathroom to deal with the most pressing matter, not daring a look toward the rest of the apartment.
The relief of his bladder emptying at last seemed to lift a veil from his mind.
Sure, it would suck if Adathan started acting like a slave again, but it would only be temporary. They would read the manual together, talk it through, and William would help Adathan untangle all the bullshit that had been implanted in his brain. It would be a new, stronger beginning.
And as for the status of their relationship, well...
William shook his head. One thing at a time.
He washed his hands, brushed his teeth, and walked out—nearly crashing into Adathan. “Ah.” He let out a nervous laugh. “Sorry.”
Adathan smiled but said nothing. He just stood there, looking at William expectantly.
Awaiting an order?
“Did you, uh, want something?” William asked.
“May I go to the bathroom?”
William cringed as he stepped aside. “Yeah. Of course. Sorry.”
Adathan walked in and closed the door, leaving him alone with his stupidity.
As William passed his room on the way to the kitchen, he noticed his bed was made. The sofa was also clutter-free, Adathan’s blanket and pillow neatly put away. Two mugs sat on the kitchen counter. When he looked closer, he saw they had instant coffee, sugar, and milk in them. He reached for the kettle, but it was already on.
William turned around and leaned against the counter, slipping his hands into his pockets. He’d have to learn not to beso useless in the mornings if he wanted to keep up with Adathan. That wouldn’t be easy—he’d never been a morning person.
