Page 120 of Hard to Judge

He ignores both men and looks at me. “There’s a vacant building directly across from campus.”

“An old theater,” Nate interjects.

“I’m going to make a student center for the underserved. A resource hub for tutoring, books, housing, food, whatever is needed.” His sad eyes alight. The more he talks, the more animated his hands become. “I’ll make changes to the existing commercial and residential spaces that will support the student center, and I’ll start a scholarship fund.”

He draws a deep breath. “I’ve already spoken with a contractor and the city planner. Renovations will start in a couple of weeks.”

“That’s amazing, Hota.” I can hardly contain my joy. I want to throw myself into his arms and show him how proud I am of him. “Truly.”

“That’s an interesting take.” Nate purses his lips and furrows his brow. “I always thought an old-time bar would work really well in that space or a wedding venue.” He turns toward Hota. “I’d love to discuss it further.” Then he levels a gaze at Arlo. “Thank you for lunch and hearing my offer, but I’m going toborrow Hota for the afternoon and maybe evening.” He grins. “We have a lot to discuss.”

Nate stands, not waiting for a response from anyone.

Arlo stands and walks until he’s nose to chin with Nate. I stand, and Hota does too. Our eyes lock for a second before swinging back to the men.

It doesn’t matter that Nate has Arlo in size and weight. My lover’s presence is larger than life. His will is bigger than Nate’s wildest dreams.

“He’s not for lending. He’s not for sale. He’s mine,” Arlo states. He looks back at us and then returns it to Nate. “He’s ours, actually.”

I move to stand by Hota’s side and slide my fingers between his. So Nate understands what that means. My new lover’s hand shakes in mine, but his eyes are intent, drinking in everything.

“I only agreed to meet with you for Hota, the history you two have, and my role in it.” Arlo adjusts his sleeves. “Believe me when I say it is history. There’s no room for you in the present.”

Arlo turns and faces Hota. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you he was coming. Selfishly, I didn’t want him to even lay eyes on you again. I haven’t said I love you again because I didn’t think you were ready to hear it and for no other reason.” His head shakes.

“I don’t care about the article in the paper. I want the world to know you’re mine. You’re ours. If anyone I work with has a problem with the way we live our lives, I have enough money to cut them out. Hell, I’ll burn the conglomerate to the ground to have you.” He looks at me, smiles, and then looks back to our lover who needs it the most.

He cups Hota’s face. “I eat, sleep, and breathe you. Loving you is who I am. It’s who I’ve been for as long as I can remember. From this day on, I’ll tell you every day daisuki da yo, I love you, Hota. And I’ll continue to show you until the day I die.”

Arlo's thumb runs over his cheekbone. “Please, let me?”

Hota presses his lips to Arlo’s.

A collective gasp can be heard in the restaurant. This is no hockey game. I wipe tears from my cheeks, but my smile will not be contained.

Someone claps politely, and then more join in.

My lovers pull apart and press their heads together for a second more before Hota turns and kisses me chastely on the lips.

Another gasp. Then a woot. More clapping.

“Let’s get out of here.” Hota squeezes my hand and then grabs Arlo’s.

“You always were pulling his strings,” Nate barks. “One day, he’ll tire of it.”

Hota stops and turns to Nate. “I live for him to pull my strings and to pull Hailey’s.” He shrugs like it’s so simple. “Find something to live for, Nate. Real estate isn’t it. Be happy for me. I’m happy to be able to help you out of a tough spot and help others in the process.” He gives a little bow. “Goodbye, Nate.”

“Take us home, please Leonard,” I say as I slide last into the limo. Hota is pressed between me and Hailey on the bench seat right where he belongs.

“Yes, sir.” My driver closes the door, rounds to the front, and begins the short drive.

“Home?” Hota’s lips pull at the corners. “It’s midday. We have work. All three of us.”

I peer around him and meet Hailey’s gaze with a question.

The bright beam that radiates from her stunning face tells me all I need to know. Her pride in me puffs my chest and shores up the hint of doubt always gnawing at the back of my neck.

“When Arlo told me who we were having lunch with, I cleared my afternoon,” Hailey says, while holding tight to Hota’s hand.

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