Rowan lets out a bemused huff.
Dr. Hart looks at me. “You seem very calm, Cade. Do you carry any negative feelings regarding Rowan or your intimacy with him?”
I shake my head without hesitation. “No. Not at all. I see the hard facts… he’s not my brother. My father married his mother.That’s the extent of our familial relationship.” I pause, then add honestly, “And I… like this.”
Rowan glances sideways at me, not quite meeting my eyes, but I catch the flicker of curiosity there.
Dr. Hart turns his gentle attention to Rowan. “Rowan, this is a safe space. Let’s walk through what you’re feeling right now.”
Rowan sighs shakily. “I’m… ashamed. Because the world sees us as brothers. I don’t want us to be scrutinized. I don’t want our parents to disown us, and I don’t want to embarrass my stepdad’s company.”
Dr. Hart nods. “So you’re worried about what other people will think… that’s perfectly understandable. But I want to know howyoufeel.”
Rowan’s voice cracks. “I can’t…”
He inhales shakily.
Dr. Hart encourages gently, “Tell me, did you enjoy your intimacy with Cade?”
Rowan squeezes his eyes shut and nods.
I can’t help the small grin that tugs at my mouth. Dr. Hart notices and smiles. “That much, huh?”
I nod. “Ten minutes and we were done.”
Dr. Hart raises his brows, genuinely pleased. “That’s brilliant news, Rowan.”
Rowan sniffles. I frown as I realize he’s crying. I start to move toward him, but Dr. Hart holds up a hand, silently telling me to stay put. I hate it, but I listen.
Dr. Hart asks softly, “If you could pick one thing you’re most scared of right now, what would it be?”
Rowan takes a shaky breath. “That I… wantmore.”
My heart stutters. That’s not what I was expecting him to say.
Dr. Hart smiles softly. “More? Can you elaborate? Do you mean more of a relationship with Cade, or…”
Rowan nods before Dr. Hart can finish the sentence. My grip tightens on the edge of the chair. That’s what he’s most afraid of? Wanting more with me?
Dr. Hart continues gently, “Rowan, what you’re seeking is a relationship with someone you clearly have a deep bond with. It’s not illegal and it’s not incestuous. So let me ask you this… if you let these negative feelings overwhelm you, and prevent you from exploring your bond with Cade… who is that going to hurt most?”
Rowan whispers, barely audible, “Me.”
My chest aches horribly, fingers twitching as I fight the urge to reach out for Rowan.
Dr. Hart says, “Do you two mind if I demonstrate something? It will involve my secretary, Elana.”
I ask quickly, “She’s bound by confidentiality as well?”
“Of course.”
I nod. Dr. Hart stands and invites Elana in. She’s a warm, professional woman who smiles at both of us.
“Elana, you know these two?”
She nods. “Of course… Mr. Adley and Mr. Mercer. They work at Mercer Security.”
“What do you know of their relationship?”
