Page 106 of The Chameleon

“I love you, you big sack of shit. I want you to always be happy, and that can only happen if you are reunited with your brother.”

“Every time I think I can’t possibly love you any more, you do something as sweet as this,” Ares whispered into Matteo’s chest.

“Don’t tell others I’m a softy. I wouldn’t want to ruin my reputation.”

Ares chuckled into Matteo’s warm embrace.

He felt the man he loved pull away.

Ares was now standing face to face with his brother.

Abel’s eyes were dark and puffy like he hadn’t seen light in ages. His body had lost most of the muscle mass he’d once had when they were both in their early twenties—which wasn’t surprising given that physical fitness was not something that the Don Kiev Asylum prioritizes with their patients. They were lucky if they got fed every day.

No longer in control of his body, Ares found himself walking toward the man who tried to have him murdered so many years ago.

Large, sad eyes stared longingly up at Ares as he approached. He could see the hope and fear and love all swirling around in an array of raw emotions.

He couldn’t hold back any longer.

“Brother,” Ares managed to say before lunging into a hug with the man.

Ares wasn’t sure how long they stood there, squeezing one another, tears dripping down both of their faces. It wasn’t until they heard someone whisper…

“How long do you think we have to sit here and wait? I’m starving.”

Ares began to chuckle and released his brother, who was also smiling.

“You’re just in time for breakfast,” Ares welcomed, throwing his arm over his brother’s shoulders and leading him toward the long table.

Reaching across the table, Matteo slid his hand over Ares’s.

“Thank you,” Ares whispered, giving his partner’s hand a gentle squeeze.

“Anything for you, babe,” Matteo said with a loving smile.

Ares felt his heart expand just a little bit more. He fucking loved the guy.

Leaning over, Ares grabbed Matteo by the shirt and pulled him in for a kiss.

All around them, people groaned. That was the level of maturity present at the table.

“I love you, Matté.”

“I love you, too, babe.”

“Can we eat now?” someone asked from across the table.

Ares and Matteo chuckled before turning to face the sea of hungry young men, all waiting for their fathers to stop making out so that they could enjoy their breakfast in peace.

“Eat up, boys. I hear you all have chores to do when you’re done,” Matteo said, taking Ares’s hand in his once again.

Apparently, holding hands was their newest thing. Ares couldn’t wait to see what else would become theirnextnewest thing.

EPILOGUE

ARES

“Idon’t get it. I thought you said you were checking on business,” Matteo commented, looking annoyed as shit.

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