Page 16 of Pretty in Pink

“That was so special. But even though they know what I like, they don’t know what Ilooklike.”

“Oh, yes they do,” I corrected, and he raised his head to look at me with wide eyes. “There’s no way I found a boy as beautiful as you and didn’t brag to my family about it. I told themeverythingabout you, because I’m proud of everything you are.”

Keegan slammed into me, squeezing me in a tight hug. “Thank you, Daddy.” He sniffled his nose but shook his head. “That was so sweet, but I can’t cry; my makeup will run and it’s almost time for our guests.”

I chuckled and dropped a kiss on his head. “You’re welcome. So, I’ll say again; you have nothing to worry about. I am positive they will love you.”

“What if…” he paused, and I listened intently for any more concerns he may have. It was my job and honor to soothe his mind and support him. “What if I loveyou?”

His words took me by surprise, but I fully expected the way they made me feel; my heart swelled and raced, and happiness filled every cell, every synapse until I could literally feel its warmth.

“That’s perfect, because I love you, too.”

“Really? Oh, Daddy!” His hug threatened to snap my neck, but what a wonderful way to die. “Even though we haven’t known each other very long? I know it’s not ‘traditional’.”

“Baby, I’d like to know one thing about us that is,” I chuckled, and he laughed along with me.

“That’s a very good point.” He beamed up at me, his entire face glowing with joy. “I do love you.”

“And I love you.” I kissed his plush lips, and just as I moved to slip my tongue into his mouth, the sound of my front door opening made Keegan jump. “Sounds like our company is here.”

“Oops, I better get this off of you first,” he giggled, wiping some lipstick off of my mouth with his thumb.

I didn’t mind it, especially since it meant I got to kiss him, but I still teased, “Yes, it definitely wouldn’t look as pretty on me.”

Keegan laughed again and got to his feet. He took my hands and I let him think he pulled me up off of the couch. We stepped into the foyer just as Amir was shutting the front door behind him and Henley.

My son was dressed in what I now knew to be one of his ‘little’ outfits; a pair of black cotton shorts, which I assumed had either a diaper or padded underwear beneath them, and a t-shirt printed with a race car. His long hair was braided in two cords; it was the way Amir usually fixed it. At first, it was to keep Hen from pulling at it when he was nervous, but I hadn’t seen that particular tick in a while. His Daddy gave him peace.

“Hey guys,” I greeted, before giving each of them a bear hug. “I’d like to introduce you to someone very special.” I stepped back again to wrap my arm around my boy’s waist in support. “This is Keegan.”

“It’s very nice to meet you,” Amir offered with a smile, and I felt Keegan relax beneath my touch as he repeated the greeting. “I’m sure you’ve figured it out already, but I’m Amir, and this is Henley.”

“Hi,” Hen greeted with a little wave. “I like your shirt. Flowers are really pretty.”

“Thanks. I like your race car too.”

“Did you like the ones I brought for your playroom?” Henley asked excitedly, and Keegan nodded.

“I played with them earlier; they had a race, and the white one won.”

“Itisthe fastest,” Henley agreed, and I wondered how in the hell they’d both landed on that outcome. “Maybe we can play with them together later.”

“I’d like that!”

“Me too. Ooh, and I brought you something else.” He turned to Amir and asked, “Daddy, can I give it to him now?”

“Let’s wait until after we eat,” Amir insisted, making Hen groan. “I know if you two start playing, you’re not going to want to stop.” I could confirm his assumption.

Keegan interjected, “I helped make dinner. I think you’ll like it; cheesy chicken casserole.”

“Hey, that’s my favorite!” Henley cheered.EverythingI made was his favorite, and it warmed my heart. “Come on, I’ll help you set the table.” The two of them scurried off to the kitchen together, leaving Amir and I staring after them, smiling like idiots.

“Well, they seem to be hitting it off,” Amir grinned.

“I’m so glad.” I couldn’t contain my excitement a moment longer and told him, “He loves me.”

“I’m not surprised,” he replied with a wink. “You’re a good man, and I’m so happy you’ve found your match.” He clapped me on the shoulder and added, “Come on; let’s get to our boys.”

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