Mike knew that from bitter experience.
Tommy poured out another mug of coffee and then sat down at the kitchen table, his breakfast finished. Spring break had flown by, and all he had to show for it was a pile of reading he’d gotten done. He hadn’t been in the mood to go out, even when Ben had suggested going to see a movie the previous night. So there he was, Friday morning, the weekend upon him once more, and no idea if he was going to see Mike. He’d had no word from him since Wednesday, and he was trying not to let it worry him.
Caroline ruffled his hair. “I’m going shopping this morning in Atlanta. You wanna come with me, keep me company?”
He shook his head. “Would you mind if I said no? I don’t feel like it.” Not that he had anything better to do.
She sighed. “Oh, sweetie. I hate to see you like this.” The door chime interrupted them. Caroline raised her voice. “Ben, be a dear and get that?” His roomie was in the media room, playing with his PS3. Tommy could hear him grumbling as he went through the hallway. She huffed. “That boy would spend all day being a couch potato if I let him.”
Tommy had to laugh. Caroline had Ben pegged.
Ben appeared in the kitchen doorway. “Someone to see you, Tommy.” His neck and cheeks were flushed.
Tommy straightened. It could only be one person. Sure enough, Mike walked into the kitchen behind Ben. Tommy couldn’t help his body’s reaction. His breathing quickened at the sight of Mike in his faded, worn jeans and white cotton shirt, open at the collar, the sleeves rolled up.
Damn, he looks good.
“G’morning,” Mike said, addressing Caroline. His gaze met Tommy’s. “Hey.”
“I’m just going to check and see if the laundry’s finished its cycle.” Caroline got to her feet and left the kitchen after giving Tommy a quick smile.
“I’m in the middle of a game, so if you’ll excuse me.” Ben disappeared, leaving Mike standing in the middle of the floor, looking bemused.
Tommy shook his head. His adoptive family were wonderful. “Subtle, aren’t they?”
Mike smiled. “It was nice of them to give us some space.” He took a breath. “You need to come with me, now.”
Tommy arched his eyebrows. “Oh? An’ where are we goin’?” Mike’s forthright approach made him smile.
“You’re gonna have to trust me on that. All I’m gonna say is if you love me, come with me.” Mike held out his hand, palm upward, and gazed at Tommy, unblinking.
Tommy swallowed. “YouknowI love ya.”
Mike grinned. “Then come on.” He beckoned.
Tommy hesitated for all of three seconds and then stretched out his hand to Mike, who grasped it firmly. “Do I need to bring anything?”
Mike shook his head. “Just you.” He led Tommy out of the kitchen and through the hallway.
“I’m goin’ out with Mike,” Tommy called hastily in the direction of the living room.
“’Kay!” Ben shouted back.
He followed Mike out of the house and over to his truck. “We goin’ far?”
“No, not really. I’ll bring you back when we’re done. I have work this afternoon.”
Mike unlocked the truck, and Tommy got in. A thrill of anticipation coursed through him at this unexpected turn of events. Mike pulled out of the driveway and onto the road. Tommy glanced at him before giving his attention to the road,curious about their destination. They drove into the center of Atlanta and out toward Lakewood.
“I’ve missed you,” Mike said quietly, his eyes focused on the road.
“Me too.” Tommy had missed the evening calls and texts. The sound of Mike’s voice always made him feel good. He watched the passing scenery, his mind going over endless possibilities, but for the life of him, he couldn’t guess where Mike could be taking him.
About forty minutes later, Mike pulled into a parking lot, in which sat a low white building with a glass front. The sign above the door said ManFactory.
“What is this place?”
Mike switched off the engine and turned to face him, hands resting on the steering wheel. “This is one of the studios where I come to shoot scenes.” He regarded Tommy steadily, his gaze focused on him.
