Mason smiled at him. Ryder must have said something if they both knew about his project. Did they know what had happened between him and Ryder? They couldn’t have, or there was no way they’d do this.
Sapphire looked like she was about to explode, and Mrs. Delaune put a hand on her daughter’s shoulder. She didn’t say a word, but the look in her eyes was clear that she wanted her daughter to stop causing a scene.
“What’s the project, Felix?”
He wasn’t sure how his project would be received by an audience like this, but the reassuring nod from Mason was enough to give him confidence.
“I’m doing an exhibition for pride month, which will include interviews and portraits of LGBTQ+ role models who are successful. Not just people in the public eye. I want most of the exhibit to be regular people.”
“That sounds wonderful. Have you filled all the spaces?”
He felt embarrassed, because he was far from filling all the spots. It was all feeling like a disaster, but he knew he still had time.
“I’m still recruiting. I want the exhibition to represent the entire community.”
“Of course. Let me introduce you to some people who may be able to help you.”
“I need to head off, Catherine. Could I have a quick wordwith Felix before you show him off to all your guests?” said Mason.
She laughed and patted his arm. “Of course, but come and find me, Felix. I know some people who would love to support your project. Sapphire, don’t you have something to say to Felix?”
She scowled at her mother, and then looked at Felix, plastered on a fake smile, and fluttered her eyelashes at him. Did that really work?
“I’m sorry,” she said, although there was no sincerity in her tone.
“Thank you,” said Felix, not wanting any more drama.
“Lovely. That’s all settled then,” said Mrs. Delaune, before walking off.
Mason put an arm round Felix’s shoulder to maneuver him away. He was happy to get away, but knew from the glare he got from Sapphire that she wasn’t done with him. He still had another two hours before he could leave, and he didn’t want to pass up on Mrs. Delaune’s kind offer. Felix didn’t really want people from privileged backgrounds in his exhibition, but he would not make assumptions.
“Are you okay?” asked Mason.
Felix wasn’t sure what to say, as he didn’t know what Mason knew.
“I’m fine, thanks. You?”
“What’s going on with you and Ryder?”
“I don’t know what you mean.”
“Well, he had his interview with you on Monday, and now he’s sulking like he just had his favorite fleshlight taken off him.”
Felix couldn’t help but laugh at that. It was obvious Ryder hadn’t told them what had happened, but he didn’t feel it was his place to fill in the gaps.
“Did he try anything?” asked Mason.
“No . . . he . . . I didn’t . . . I mean . . .”Oh. My. God. Why can’t I speak?
“What’s wrong, Felix? Do you need me to kick his ass for being unprofessional? I know this exhibition is important to you, so just be careful around Ryder. He doesn’t do serious, and I have a feeling you’re a guy who does. Am I wrong?”
Felix shook his head, but wouldn’t elaborate.
“Look, I love Ryder like a brother, but he’s never going to settle down. I’ve known him for years, and it’s rare for him to even go on a date, let alone more than one. If you decide to go there, just know it’ll be a one and done.”
“Okay.” It was all he could say.
“I better go, but here...” He passed a card to Felix. “Call me when you want to do the interview and we’ll find a time. You can come by the restaurant and get a free lunch.”
