“Wow,” Chad said, then elbowed him. “It’s okay, you know.”
Nicholas faced him. “I’m not interested in Micah.” Why did he feel the need to lie? He put it down to the new and unfamiliar feelings that he hadn’t had a chance to fully explore. “And even if I was, I don’t need your permission.”
Chad’s smile faded. “I’m just trying to be supportive.”
“Sorry, man,” Nicholas said, suddenly feeling like an asshole. “It’s just that it’s not like that. Not with Micah. You don’t need to worry about him being a notch on my bedpost.”Yeah, because Micah deserves so much more than being a one-night stand.
“Thank fuck for that,” Chad said. “The last thing I want to think about is my brother—” He waved a hand in the air and smirked, “—you know.” Then he grew serious. “He’s been through a lot the last year and could definitely do with a friend.”
Nicholas nodded. “He’s a good guy. He’s doing a great job with the kids. I’m sure he’ll land on his feet.”
“Yeah. I think so too, and being back home will be good for him,” Chad agreed. “But listen, man. I meant what I said. If you and Micah… well, you have my support, just take it easy with him.”
Nicholas threw back a mouthful of his drink. He’d always found it difficult to fully confront his feelings and in all honestly, he was a bit of a mess at the moment as he wrestled with decisions about his career. Maybe the timing was all wrong. He swallowed hard. “Okay, let’s say you’re right and I’m developing feelings for Micah, I’m not sure I’m the best person for him at the moment. I’m not sure what I can offer.”
Chad gripped his upper arm and gave a light squeeze. “You’re over-thinking things. Micah’s strong. He’s taken charge of his life and can make his own decisions. If you have feelings—true feelings that may lead to something—then you need to explore those together. Just be honest, man. Don’t fuck him over, is all I mean.”
Nicholas looked at Chad in amazement. “When did you get so philosophical?” he asked.
Chad huffed a laugh. “I think Tammy is rubbing off on me.”
“Well, thanks, man. I appreciate the advice.”
“You might not be thanking me later if I have to come wallop you for hurting my little brother.”
“But you said—”
Chad bellowed with laughter. “That doesn’t mean I don’t have to do my big brother duty and issue the obligatory warning,” he said when he finally caught his breath.
Nicholas rolled his eyes.
“Want another drink?” Chad asked, just as Micah crossed the room toward them, Adam in tow.
“Hi, guys. You know Adam?”
As they exchanged greetings, Nicholas gave Adam the once over. He still had the build of a footballer, and a smile that showed perfect teeth. Nicholas acknowledged his good looks, but he had no desire to pursue anything with him. Whatever attraction he’d felt in the past was long gone.
“Great to see you, Nicholas,” Adam said.
“You too,” Nicholas said. “What brings you here?”
“Just visiting the family for the holidays. I’m glad I ran into you. It’s been ages, but I see the years have treated you well.” Adam waggled his brows, his interest obvious.
Chad passed him another beer, saving him from having to respond. “Did you guys hear they’re arranging a ten-year school reunion next year? You’ll both have to come back for that.”
“My god, you’re all ancient,” Micah said, mischief in his eyes.
“Not too old to take you down, little brother.” Chad hooked an arm around his neck and went to give him a noogie, but Micah ducked out of the way, laughing as he did so.
Nicholas’s heart fluttered at the sight of his happiness and the sound of his laughter. He wanted to put his arm around Micah’s shoulders, to joke with him, and be the one that put the look of joy on his face. Micah met his eyes, and they locked gazes for a long moment, then a couple of Micah’s friends came and dragged him away.
Someone amped up the music, and more people started dancing, including Micah. Damn, he could move!
“You want to get out of here?” Adam tilted his head towards the doorway. “Maybe find somewhere quieter where we can talk. Catch up, you know?”
Nicholas glanced at the makeshift dance floor. He’d rather spend the time talking to Micah, but he knew that talking wasn’t the only thing he wanted to do, especially with the way Micah was owning the dance floor. With Chad’s words replaying in his mind, he pasted on a smile. “Sure.”
Chapter Six
