No getting away now.Evan raised his own hand and stepped forward, meeting Harry halfway across the deck. “It looks like it’s going to be a nice sunset again tonight.” They’d been blessed with the most amazing sunsets across the ocean. The weather had held all week, the clouds remaining light and fluffy and perfect for catching the last of the sun’s rays at the end of the day. The sky lit up in every shade of pink and orange and mauve, reflected in the sea for a double whammy.
“I think so too,” Harry said. “I was going to find a quiet spot to sit and enjoy it. Maybe get a drink.”
“Do you mind if I come with you?”
Harry’s face lit up. “I’d love that.”
“How about we get something from the pool bar, and if we’re lucky we’ll find a couple of vacant seats on deck?”
“Perfect.”
They began walking towards the back of the ship, Evan fully aware of Harry’s arm occasionally brushing against his as they strolled along. “How come you’re not hanging with the rest of the contestants? Weren’t they all gathering at the Continental Drift bar again?”
“I could ask you same thing.” Harry chuckled, then his face grew serious. “I really just wanted some alone time, you know? It gets overwhelming being surrounded by people all the time.”
“Shit.” Evan stopped, and Harry paused a few steps ahead before turning around. “You should have said something. I don’t have to come with you.”
Harry’s eyes widened. “Are you kidding? I couldn’t think of anything I’d rather do. When I said ‘people,’” Harry explained, making air quotes, “I didn’t mean you. I meant all the show participants. I can’t stand having to be ‘on’ all the time.”
“Oh God, I know what you mean,” Evan said. “It’s exhausting being on my best behaviour all the time.”
“I’m sure you don’t have any trouble doing that.” He laughed before his face darkened. “Not like some others I can think of.”
“Oh?”
Harry ignored the prompt, clearly changing the topic. “How about we get that drink? I could use one, and I don’t want to miss the sunset.”
It wasn’t long before they were each holding a drink and making their way to the Promenade Deck. By unspoken agreement they continued side by side along the walking path. They strolled in companionable silence as the sky changed into a myriad of hues. The sea breeze picked up but was fresh rather than cool—it really was a perfect paradise.And romantic.
Evan groaned inwardly. His mind had once again reminded him of his innermost desire. It just reinforced how biased he was about how John treated Harry, so he resolved not to say anything. At least until he’d run things over with Amber. Maybe she could give him some unbiased advice?
“Did you want to sit?”
Harry’s question drew him from his musings. “Sure.”
They took the first two seats they came across; deep cane chairs with comfy cushions, angled slightly to face the sea with a small table in between. Evan sipped his drink and watched the sun slowly descend. He heard Harry sigh and turned his head to look at him. Harry was focused on the horizon, a pensive look on his face. He glanced at Evan, then quickly looked away, perhaps uncomfortable being the subject of Evan’s focus. Evan looked back to sea, pretending to be engrossed in the descending sun. It was beautiful, but his mind was fully on the man sitting next to him, aware of every small movement in his peripheral vision. They stayed like that until the sun had dipped below the horizon. The shipboard lights were on but were low. It was peaceful and intimate.
Harry was the first to break the silence. “Evan, can I talk to you about something?”
“Yeah, sure. Of course you can.”
“It’s about you. About us. Something personal.”
“Okaaay,” Evan said, his voice shaking with uncertainty.
Harry looked shy, almost reluctant as he twisted his hands together.
Shit! Whatever it is, it must be bad. Or embarrassing. Or both.
Evan took a deep breath and turned to face Harry fully. “What is it? Just spit it out. It can’t be that bad.”Or can it?
Harry took a long sip of his cocktail, as if seeking fortification in its alcoholic depths. He finally put the glass down and swallowed so hard that Evan saw his Adam’s apple bob with the motion. “God!” He rolled his eyes heavenward. “This shouldn’t be so hard.”
“Listen, Harry.” Evan leaned over and placed a hand on Harry’s knee, his heart giving a happy jump when Harry’s laid a hand over his. He waited till Harry met his gaze. “Whatever it is, it’ll be all right. I’m sure we can work it out.”
Harry gave a snort, then a small smile lit his features. “I feel ridiculous. I’m making a mountain out of molehill. I feel like a first grader admitting to a crush. All I wanted to say was that I like you.”
“Um… thanks, I guess.”
