Christmas went over well with my family, though we did not stay long. I’d already warned Trey that it would be a quick dinner and that was all. Mandy wasn’t there for that either, because we’d left before she got there. She blew up Trey’s phone about it, which annoyed me to no end and we got into a little spat with him defending himself and her, saying they’re just friends.
He didn’t understand that it wasn’t jealousy. It was just… boundaries.
But I am relieved that I don’t have to deal with my family again for another year, though I promised my mother I am going to try to see my dad more often. He is at least easier to tolerate.
Trey and I have been going out more in public and acting more normal together. Holding hands. Quick kisses. That sort of thing. It’s a lot easier to do when it’s in small doses and I don’t feel obligated. In fact, I’m the one who initiates a lot of the time. I like the way his hand feels in mine, and the way his cheek feels against my lips. I do note the way he tenses slightly when people stare, but it doesn’t stop him.
We’re figuring this out. And we’re doing it together.
My phone dings as I grab my bag to head out of my office to go home.
Trey
Flight got delayed. Not sure what time I’ll be there, but I’m taking an Uber. No arguments.
I put my things down to respond.
Me
But I was planning on seeing you tonight.
Trey
At this point, I won’t be there until sometime in the middle of the night.
Me
It’s Friday. I don’t mind waiting up.
Trey
www you really miss me, huh?
I roll my eyes.
Me
You know I do. So how about I go to your place tonight and wait for you?
Trey
Love that idea!
See you soon. Hopefully. <3
I stop home to drop off my work things and grab an overnight bag, then I make my way to Trey’s house and get comfortable. I make a quick dinner, watch TV while having a beer, and when my eyelids start getting heavy around eleven, I go to his room, change, and get into bed.
Even though he hasn’t been here in a couple of weeks, his bed still smells like him, especially the pillow. So I lay on that side and fall asleep almost immediately.
I’m woken up sometime later by footsteps.
I lift my head and glance toward the door and see a shadow through the dark.
“Sorry,” Trey says. “I didn’t mean to wake you.”
I toss the blankets off me and get up to go to him. I pull him into a hug and kiss his neck, then his lips. He’s cold from outside, but it doesn’t deter me. He smells like oranges, cinnamon, and evergreen.
“I missed you,” I breathe.
