“Then yeah, I suppose that's fine,” Michael agreed. “It's going to be weird not having him at the house tonight.”
I hadn't thought about the fact Michael didn't have anyone else he could call on to watch Henry overnight if he needed a break. His parents weren't bad people, but they hadn't stuck around Harmony Grove any longer than they had to, meaning they moved away as soon as Michael graduated and went off to college. When I'd asked why he’d come back, he admitted it was the only place that felt like home.
I didn't want him dwelling on what a rarity this was. I rested my hand on his thigh, gently tracing the outside seam of his shorts with my thumb. “I'll make sure you're too busy to worry about him tonight. He'll be in good hands, and that means tonight's about helping you turn off your brain and handing everything over to me.”
“Yes, please.” Michael squirmed in his seat. Right as I glanced at his crotch, he covered himself. “Sorry, I don't know what's gotten into me. I normally have more control than this.”
“I like that you're turned on. That's a hell of a lot better than the alternative.” I slid my hand higher, allowing my pinkie to drift between his legs. “I can’t believe I didn’t realize how switchy you are sooner. You're just dying for me to get you alone, aren't you?”
“Yes,” he responded breathlessly.
I checked in the rearview mirror, both to see if Henry was still sleeping and to remind myself we weren't alone. If we were, I'd make Michael show me just how turned on he was.
Fuck. I couldn't wait to get back to his place after we dropped off Henry. Tonight wouldn't be the first time I saw him naked but everything was different now.
As we pulled up to my parents' house, after a quick stop at Michael’s to pick up clothes and Bear-Bear, the lights were on and welcoming. My mom waited on the other side of the rickety screen door, and as soon as she spotted us, she came bustling out.
“Hey buddy, you ready to spend the night with my mom and dad?” I asked as I hefted him out of his booster seat. Normally, I’d encourage him to walk but he was struggling to wake up. “They have goats, chickens, and even a miniature pony.”
“Cool.” He rested his head on my shoulder, his thumb finding its way into his mouth.
“I told him about the animals,” I mentioned as I handed him over to her. He was still drowsy from his nap but perked up when he saw my mom. “I bet he’ll be a good helper with morning chores.”
“Animals?” he mumbled sleepily.
“Yes, sweetie. We have goats and chickens here. Would you like to see them?” my mom cooed at him.
She glanced over his head, looking to Michael, who nodded.
Henry’s eyes widened, and he nodded eagerly. I couldn’t help but laugh at his sudden excitement and burst of energy. “Daddy, can I go see the animals with Billy’s mom?”
“Sure. That sounds like a great idea. Just make sure you listen really well, okay?” Michael passed off his little duffel bag. “I’ll see you tomorrow, okay?”
Henry’s little chin wobbled, and I waited for the tears that would derail all my plans. They never came. Henry quickly hugged me, then clung to my mom’s neck.
She gave us a reassuring smile before whisking him away toward the backyard. She knew what she was doing, distracting Henry so he wasn’t distressed about staying somewhere new for the night.
Michael and I stood in the driveway for a moment, watching them go. As we turned to leave, I caught Michael's hand in mine. He looked at me, his eyes searching mine. I gave his hand a gentle squeeze.
He smiled back, and we headed to the car. The future was uncertain, but for the first time in a long time, I felt hopeful. Michael and Henry had become an essential part of my life, and I was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Together.
8
BILLY
We had only beeninside the house for a few minutes when I felt Michael's presence behind me. I turned to look at him, and he seemed to be almost trembling in anticipation. Being the more dominant partner wasn't new to me, but I felt as green as someone who'd never done more than get off to porn where the top was bossy. Something stirred inside me, and I knew that it was time.
Michael needs this,I reminded myself.
“Michael,” I said firmly, my voice low and authoritative. He immediately stood taller and straightened his posture. “Go into the hall bathroom and strip.”
The words seemed to linger in the air between us for a moment before Michael nodded in acknowledgment. His movements were slow and deliberate as he crossed the room to the stairs, his gaze never leaving mine as he passed me by.
Once he was out of sight, I took a deep breath and let myself take in my surroundings. This house held more than just memories for us now-it marked the beginning of our relationship.
My heart pounded with anticipation as I joined Michael in the bathroom. He stood before me with guarded confidence radiating from every inch of him. This man was ready to submit himself fully to my desires but also nervous about taking this step into the unknown.
I moved closer, my breath quickening with anticipation. My hand trembled as I reached out and brushed against his shoulder before my fingers trailed down his arm. As my hand finally clasped his, a charged silence filled the room, and I couldn't help but feel a rush of desire course through me.
