Page 113 of Captivated

“Well, if I were you, I’d go talk to him. I don’t know enough to come up with answers for you, but Sol does. He’s easy to talkto. And it might help to get an outsider’s perspective on your situation.”

“He already guessed about the conversion therapy.”

Dad’s slow exhale filled his ear. “There. So that’s one hurdle you don’t have to get over. Tell him as much—or as little—as you feel up to sharing. Tell him about your therapy sessions with Dr. Lacey, too.”

Nate heard an engine switch off. “I think my breakfast has arrived.”

Dad chuckled. “Wow. Waiter service. I don’t getthatkind of treatment.” He paused. “But seriously, go see Sol. He’s another good guy.”

“Thanks, Dad.” Nate smiled. “It’ll be good to see you on Saturday. And mac and cheese would be great if you feel like making it.”

Dad gave a hearty laugh. “That’s what I was going to cook anyway. Enjoy your breakfast.” He hung up.

The door opened and Zeeb stepped inside. His eyebrows shot up when he caught sight of Nate.

“You plannin’ on eating like that?”

Nate chuckled. “Give me a sec to put some clothes on.” He got up from the couch and hurried up the stairs.

“Don’t be too long or your home fries might up an’ vanish,” Zeeb called out.

He snorted. “Will they have any help?” He grabbed a clean tee from the chest of drawers. “What are we doing today?”

“Whatever you want. Paintin’, ridin’…. Did you have something in mind?”

Nate pulled on his jeans. “Yes, but it’s none of those.” He paused. “Where would I find Sol? That’s assuming he’s available.”

There was a pause before Zeeb replied. “This a social call or more of a professional one?”

Nate peered over the railing at him. “The latter. I think a talk with him might prove useful.” He smiled. “At least, I hope so. It’s my dad’s idea.”

Zeeb removed his phone from his pocket. “Then let’s find out.” He tapped the screen. “Hey, Sol. I know you’re eating, but this is important. Nate wants a chat. You available today?”

Nate waited, his heartbeat still rapid.

Zeeb smiled. “I’ll pass that on. Later, dude.” He pocketed his phone. “Sol says he’ll be at the Leather Barn this morning, workin’ on his websites.” He snickered. “He says it’s the only place he’s guaranteed to get some peace ‘n’ quiet.” He put his hands on his hips. “Now that we’ve gotthatoutta the way, will you get your butt down here an’ eat your breakfast?”

Nate came down the stairs, chuckling. “I had no idea you were this bossy.”

Zeeb cackled. “Stick around an’ you’ll see what a real hard-ass I can be.”

Nate didn’t believe that description for a second. He had a feeling the softer side of Zeeb he’d witnessed was the real deal, Zeeb’s true nature.

He loaded his plate with the food. “So what will you be doing while I’m with Sol?”

“Oh my. I guess I’ll sit some place an’ twiddle my thumbs.” Zeeb rolled his eyes. “Don’t you go worryin’ ’bout me. I got plenty to keep me occupied.” He studied Nate. “How’re your aches this morning?”

Nate smiled. “Much better, thank you. I’m not sure whether that’s the result of a good night’s sleep or the massage. Either way, I owe you.”

And just like that, his mind lurched to a memory: the feel of Zeeb’s rough hands on his bare back, fingers digging into the muscle, sliding over his shoulder blades…

The heat that had spread through Nate like a slow fire.

Zeeb’s eyes glittered. “You sneak some of your home fries onto my plate, an’ we’ll call it even.”

Nate let out a mock gasp of horror. “It wasn’t worththatmuch.”

He sat on the porch, his plate nestled in his lap, the morning light sparkling on the water as it tumbled over rocks, and birds chirping all around.

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