“Hey, what’s going on?” I ask, folding my arms over my chest and squaring my shoulders. He’s only a couple of inches shorter than me, so I’m sure I can handle myself, not that we aren’t grown-ass men, so there shouldn’t be any need for an altercation.
When the man’s dark eyes land on me, his brows drop low as his mouth twists in anger. “Who the hell’s this? Is this why you won’t let me in? Are you seeing someone on the side? How comehegets to meet the kids?”
“This is Cal. Cal, this is Leo, theguy I’m seeing.”
I ignore the introductions and point at the asshole. “First, watch your language, buddy. Second, I’m only a neighbor. A friend. Don’t get your boxers all in a bunch.”
Seth cranes his head toward me, his blue eyes seeking understanding or help, like he doesn’t know what to do.
“Why don’t you go get what he came over for?” I tell him.
Seth drops his shoulders and nods. “Yeah, I’ll be right back.” When he brushes past me, he stops and whispers, “Don’t kill him, yeah?”
“No promises.”
Leo watches our every move, waiting for one of us to ‘prove Seth is cheating’ nonsense.
When Seth heads upstairs, the guy mirrors my pose. “Who the hell are you, and what are you to Seth?”
“I’ve already told you. I’m Cal from next door. We’re just friends. But your jealousy and insistence on breaking Seth’s boundaries are highly concerning,bud.”
“It’s none of your business,friend.”
“As far as friends go, you are not that. But as Seth’s friend, I will make sure he’s protected and safe. If you force your way into his life, you will only get him to turn his back on you. He’s been through enough. I won’t tell you again.”
A minute later, Seth is back downstairs and hands a contact case to Leo.
That was it? All this fuss over contact lenses? Now I’m wondering if he left it behind on purpose to worm his way more into Seth’s life. What an asshole.
Leo takes the case and looks down at it. “Sorry, baby. I just wanted to see you. I really like you and want more.”
Of course, since Seth is kind and sweet, he melts at the fake and manipulative apology. “We’re fine, and I want more, too, but pleaserespect my rules. You’ll meet the kids soon when I’m ready. But tonight is a bit concerning, and I feel rushed.”
Leo’s shoulders drop, and he nods. “You’re right. I’m so sorry. I won’t push again. That’s a promise.”
I believe him as far as I can throw him.
Seth smiles and rubs Leo’s arm. “Say, there’s this new tapas bar that’s opened up downtown. Want to go?”
“Yeah, I’d like that. Call me?”
“Sure.”
Leo eventually leaves, and Seth closes the front door with a heavy sigh. I’m sighing right there with him. Even though he gave in to his boyfriend, I’m sure he’s aware enough that the scene was fucked up.
“Sorry,” he finally says, turning to me.
“Sorry for what? You’re not responsible for his behavior.”
“I do like him, but he wants to move faster than I’m ready for. I hope he meant what he said about not pushing me.”
“Stick to your boundaries, Tiger.”
“He’s been great until now. You didn’t see him at his best.”
I’m not liking how he’s excusing Leo’s behavior. When you’re a prick that early in a relationship, that’s a major warning bell. It’s concerning, and I’m afraid Seth will end up hurt again, but what can I do? If I’m intrusive about it, he’ll only get upset with me, so I drop the subject. Regardless, Leo is officially on my shit list.
Chapter 16
