Page 86 of Captivated

Zeeb chuckled. “I also make a mean omelet.”

“Then the next time you stay over, you’ll have to make one for me.”

Zeeb stilled, his gaze locked on Nate. “Is there gonna be a next time?”

Nate couldn’t bring himself to utter the words right there on the tip of his tongue.

If having you near me all night means I get to sleep like a log, I’d ask you to stay every night until I leave.

He shrugged. “Who knows?”

All he knew was he’d woken up feeling safe, secure—cared for—and it was a feeling he was hungry to experience again. And deep down he knew Zeeb would stay if Nate asked him.

Zeeb paused at the bunkhouse door. “You sure about this?”

Nate chuckled. “I’m starving, and that means I’m going in.”

His forced humor didn’t fool Zeeb for an instant.

He brought his hand to Nate’s back. “You heard me cuss a few days ago, remember?” Nate nodded, and Zeeb grinned. “Well, what you’re about to hear is just like that—only a lot more of it. But under all that swearin’ ‘n’ banter, these guys have all got hearts of gold.”

Nate drew in a deep breath. “Then introduce me to them.”

Zeeb rubbed Nate’s back in a slow circle. “You got this.” He pushed the door open and led the way inside.

“You’re too late, it’s all gone. That’s what you get for—” Butch gaped when he caught sight of Nate. “Well, good morning.” He glared at Matt. “What are you waiting for, the Rapture? These guys need feeding.”

Matt rolled his eyes. “You know, I think I prefer you those mornings when Sol fucks you into the mattress. All you do then is grin. Well-fucked Butch iswaymore fun than Cranky Butch.” His eyes gleamed. “Or should that be Cranky Bitch?”

Beside Zeeb, Nate stifled a gasp, then burst into laughter.

Matt stood. “I kept yours warm. Take a seat and I’ll dish it up.” He headed for the kitchen.

Zeeb was surprised to realize how on edge he was.

They won’t bite, honest.

It wasn’t until that moment he realized how badly he wanted Nate to succeed.

Nate glanced around the table. “Morning,” he said with a nod, his gaze alighting on Dave. “By the way, I’m sorry for disappearing the way I did the other evening.”

Teague chuckled. “I was surprised you stuck it out that long. I only hang around with this bunch of bastards because I have to.” His eyes twinkled.

Nate laughed, and this time it wasn’t forced.

“Was it my fault you left?” Dave’s brow furrowed. “I’m sorry. Ever since then I’ve had the feeling I ruined the night with my inappropriate ramblings. I was just so angry.”

Nate took a seat and Zeeb poured them both some coffee. He sat in the chair next to Nate’s.

Nate took a deep breath. “Actually? I’m glad you brought it up. That guy you were talking about? Mark Omerod?” His cheeks were flushed.

Zeeb froze, his heart pounding.He’s not gonna?—

Dave nodded. “I guess it was just the shock of reading his obituary. Knowing him as a kid and all…”

Nate swallowed a mouthful of coffee. “You were right, by the way. Hewasa sweet guy. And I also agree with what you said about his parents. They have a lot to answer for.”

Under the table, Zeeb reached for Nate’s hand and gave it a squeeze.

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