Page 15 of Finding Forever in Cedarwood

“Thanks.” Her eyes widened. “A year. Very good. Mr.…Black?” She tapped the clipboard. “We’re happy to have you, Mr. Black. Since you’ve paid for the full year, you’re entitled to use the Metropark as well as the community center amenities. Just show your card at the readers.” She offered up a nondescript plastic card. “Don’t lose that. There’s a dollar charge to replace it.”

“Will do.” He slid the card into his wallet. “I’m clear to use the equipment today?”

“You are.” She grinned. “I forgot my manners. I’m Anna. If you need anything, let me know. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“The pleasure is mine.” He glanced around, looking for Stone. “Well, shoot. Did you see my friend leave?” He hadn’t been talking that long.

“Stone? He ducked into the aerobics room with Jeff. I swear. You’d think those two could find someone else.” Anna shook her head. “They’re not good together.”

“No? Why?” He leaned on the counter. Jeff’s name had been mentioned before. He’d also heard the notion that being gay wasn’t welcome in town.

“They used to fight all the time. It was awful.” Anna rested her elbows on the counter and flicked her hair over her shoulder. “Stone’s a nice man. He does so much for the shelter.”

“So I’ve heard.” He paused. “He said he and Jeff were a couple.”

“They were. They started out as workout buddies and all that. I didn’t care. They did their thing and cleaned the machines when they finished. Most patrons don’t. So they argued…they’re not the first to argue in public. So they’d kiss in the parking lot? Who cared? I mean, I wouldn’t turn Stone down if he wanted to kiss me, but he’s not interested.” She blushed. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have blabbed all that to you.”

“It’s fine.” He chuckled. He seemed to bring out the chattiness in everyone. “I don’t care who kisses whom. Love is love, you know?”

“I do.” She relaxed. “That Coalition cares, but this is a judgment-free space. Why don’t you stroll around? I should’ve given you a tour, but you bought a membership before I had a chance to realize it.” Her blush deepened. “I’m all out of sorts.”

“It’s fine,” he said, repeating himself. “I was rather forward. If Stone comes by here, let him know I’m exploring.”

“I will.” She nodded. “Are you and Stone close?”

“We’re friends.” He winked, then stood upright. They were friends. According to Patricia and Tanner, nothing else should happen.

“Good.” She rounded the desk. “I hear there’s an actor in town. It’s getting crazy, the rumors. Everyone wants to know who the actor is. It’s out of hand.”

Lovely.Soon, his cover would be blown. “I hadn’t heard that.”

“Yeah. I guess this actor bought the Kingston mansion and is hiding from the media. I guess no one’s seen him.” She jumped as the phone rang. “Sorry. I need to get that. Happy exploring.”

“Thanks.” He waited for her to answer the phone then walked away. So his secret was out to a degree? Interesting. Only a few people knew the truth—Patricia, but she wouldn’t tell because she wanted him to lie low, Arthur, whom he’d pissed off by being around Stone, Tanner, because he’d given Liam info on the town. Would Tanner tell his husband? Probably. Would the husband leak the details? Probably not. He had no reason to do it. Then again, neither did Tanner. Would Arthur really let it slip that Liam was in town?

He groaned and strode into the weight room. He didn’t want his business blasted all over Cedarwood. He wasn’t there to dodge the media. He should be prepping for the role of Ned. He also shouldn’t be falling for anyone.Right? I’m here to get ready for a part…

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