Page 47 of Perfect Night

“I won’t take it personally that you clearly wanted me to be someone else, even though you begged me to come over!”

Sebastian laughed and opened the door wider for Patrick to enter. He went to the minibar. Well, in the suite, it was moreof an oversized bar. He opened two beers and passed one to Patrick. He wasn’t getting on the hard stuff as he wanted to be with it when Charlie arrived. Sebastian believed it was going to happen, although, as time ticked by, doubts were creeping in.

Patrick removed his jacket, kicked his shoes off, and made himself comfortable on the couch, taking a large swig of beer, which made him burp.

“Hot,” deadpanned Sebastian.

“Piss off and take a seat. I have something to say.”

“That sounds ominous.”

Patrick gestured for him to sit.

“You’re in love with him.”

It was a statement, but Sebastian nodded anyway, and felt his eyes sting. Patrick looked at him with sympathy, but didn’t move to comfort him. He knew Sebastian better than anyone other than Bex, and he didn’t need comfort right now. He needed to get things out.

“I know it’s quick, but there’s no doubt. I think he feels the same way, but he’s scared. He’s so driven to be independent that if he was struggling with something he’d want to work it out for himself.”

Patrick just nodded for him to continue.

“I get it. His mum raised him by herself and has poor health. She’s probably not got many years left, and she’s only a couple of years older than us. I want to help him in any way I can, but I know I can’t do that. I know I can back off and not be me.”

“You sure about that?”

“No, but I can try. I mean, he’s selling his body to pay for his mum’s care and his boss is paying him just above minimum wage.”

“I thought you said he quit.”

“He did, but only because his boss physically assaulted him and called him a queer.”

“He did what? What’s the name of the company?”

“No. Don’t go into journalist mode. If I’m not allowed to help Charlie, you certainly aren’t.”

Patrick smiled. He was far worse than Sebastian when it came to protecting someone he loved. George had found it comforting, but it would suffocate most guys.

“Where’s Charlie now?”

“I assume still at his place, but I haven’t heard from anyone. I assume I would have if things had gotten worse. Jason assured me he would tell me.”

“That’s the cute little spitfire, isn’t it?”

“Noticed that, did you?”

“The little brat wriggled on my lap and called me Daddy! Of course I noticed.”

Sebastian laughed. Jason was direct. Nothing like George, who had still been a brat, but more in a surly-teenager kind of way. Jason would be a handful for anyone.

“You should have some fun with him.”

“One night wouldn’t be enough with that boy. He needs a firm hand.”

“I’m sure you can give that to him.” Sebastian smiled, pleased to get the attention away from himself.

“He’s not ready.”

“You meanyou’renot ready.”

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