“Then get it all out, my sweetness.”
“I think I’m really falling for you,” Carmine began.
Hearing that sent shockwaves of joy through Noah’s system.
“Good.”
“At some point we’re both going to have to open up our lives to each other completely,” Carmine continued. “All this compartmentalising isn’t healthy.”
“I think I’ve done that a lot more than you.”
Carmine raised his head. “What do you mean?”
“Well, you’ve socialised with my teammates, you know about Adam and Jonas and you’ve met Ashley. All you’ve given me is your assistant.”
To his credit Carmine did appear a touch shamefaced.
“I’m being a hypocrite.”
Noah smiled. “A hypocrite who’s falling for me.”
Carmine blushed. “Absolutely. It’s just… I’m terrified.”
Noah took his hand. He was trembling.
“Carmine. No.”
“I’m sorry…I…”
“Hush,” Noah said. “You don’t have to do anything until you’re ready. Please don’t think it makes any difference to me.”
Carmine sighed. “It’s well overdue. I’ll do it soon.”
They cuddled for a little longer. Noah would introduce him to Malcolm but not until he was absolutely sure. That felt like giving the last part of his heart. One where his parents still lived. He’d never shared that with anyone.
“Why don’t you come to the match next weekend,” Noah said.
“Really?”
“Definitely.”
“Can I bring Samantha?”
“Of course.”
“Good. I’ll need someone to tell me what’s going on.”
Noah kissed the top of his head. Calm had been restored. It wasn’t lost on him that he’d had to make the effort to do that.
Being in a relationship was exhausting.
Carmine wrapped his arms around Noah’s waist and held him tightly.
Exhausting and worth it.
SIXTEEN
CARMINE
