Page 48 of Busted String

“Thanks.”

Nico turned to Sammie. “Thanks for spending the day with me. We’ll have to do it again. Jace and I have things to talk about. We need to leave for Black Rock City tomorrow at noon.”

Sammie and Mark said their goodbyes for the evening, leaving Jace alone with Nico.

“Tell me everything.”

“I did.”

“What’s hanging out of your jeans pocket?” Nico asked.

The last thing Jace wanted was to show Nico his ticket, but he pulled it out and handed it to him.

“It says you were driving at eighty in a sixty-mile zone.”

“Yes, that’s what the officer said.”

“And you don’t agree?”

“I didn’t realize how fast I was going.”

“I see. Did you have anything to drink with lunch?”

“Three beers. I promised you I wouldn’t drink over three beers.” Jace knew he sounded pathetic, and Nico would never buy his story because it had nothing to do with drinking and driving. That was a long-time rule.

“I’m proud of you for sticking to your promise. It doesn’t go unappreciated, but you broke my rule for anyone who uses my van not to drink and drive at all. This means you’ve lost your privilege of using it again. You could have killed yourself and Mark or someone else. Never drink and drive.”

“I knew I couldn’t please you, no matter what I do.”

“Jace! Don’t act like an immature teen. You fucked up. You’re lucky you all came out okay.”

“I have nothing else to say.”

Nico pulled his phone out and called the garage to discuss the van. He walked out of the room into the hallway and left Jace alone with his thoughts. He was worried about the van.

Nico returned to the room with his phone in hand and a sour expression on his face.

“The van needs extensive work, and it won’t be done when we need it. I have to rent a van.”

“I’ll pay for it. I’m sorry.”

“Jace, you had an accident. Whether it was your fault doesn’t matter now. You got Mark back, so I’ll take care of it. I’ll be back later.”

“Where are you going?”

“To rent a large camper with air conditioning to accommodate all four of us.”

“Really?”

“Not one of us can be stressed and you guys aren’t ones who can deal without air.” He pulled Jace into his arms. “I still love you. I know you’re trying, but, Jace, no drinking and driving ever again.” Their lips met in a gentle, lingering kiss, sending a rush of warmth through Jace’s body.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Nico

Nico stood back, admiring the camper he’d just rented. The exterior gleamed in the sunlight, a polished silver body with modern lines and tinted windows. The more he thought about it, the more he wanted to purchase this so they could avoid hotels and save money in the long run. He’d discuss it with the guys. Also, he wanted to see how they made out together in this shared small space without separate rooms.

Inside, the camper was even more impressive. The front area had comfortable chairs for the driver and passenger, complete with all the latest tech and navigation systems. Behind them, the living area opened up, filled with brown and beige contemporary decor. A plush sofa and a couple of armchairs were arranged around a small dining table, perfect for meals on the go.

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