Page 44 of Rocking Cedarwood

“Think about it. I’m expecting everything. My job is fun and the band won’t last forever, but what I feel for you will.”

The weight of Michael’s words hit him hard. He couldn’t help but cry. He opened his mouth, but no sound came out. He wanted to throw himself into Michael’s arms but held back.

“What do we do now?” Michael asked. “I’m not leaving Cedarwood. Do you have a place in your life for me?” This time, tears slipped down Michael’s cheeks. “Niall?”

His voice caught, but Niall managed to speak. “I’ll always have room for you.” He draped his arms around Michael’s shoulders and clung to him. “I love you.”

“Niall?” The muscle in Michael’s jaw tensed. “You’re sure?”

He nodded. “I can handle sharing you with the world as long as I’m sure I have your entire heart.”

“You do.” Michael cupped Niall’s cheek.

“Will you help me fix my house, argue over lesson plans, listen to my grumbling when I’m stressed and be my rock?” Niall rested his forehead against Michael’s. “You hold my heart.”

“Yes. All of it. I’m not me without you.” He kissed Niall hard. “Love you.”

“Love you, too.” Life would never be boring. Music and teaching would override everything, but he didn’t mind. He wouldn’t change anything about his time with Michael and now they had a lifetime to be together. Screw the negativity. He had his man. Love had won out.

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