Page 20 of Finding Forever in Cedarwood

“Thanks.” He stared at his brother. “Why do you put up with Laurence? He’s not around. He’s probably not faithful this time. Why put yourself through that?” He’d never understand Arthur if he didn’t ask questions.

Arthur pushed away from the table, but didn’t stand. “To be honest, it’s because I’m scared.”

“Of what? You’re the most fearless person I know. Are you worried about rejection?” He wasn’t the only one. “Rejection freaks me out, too.”

“That’s part of it, but mostly it’s being alone. Laurence was supposed to be forever. We had a life together. What if I dump him for good and never get another relationship like that ever in my life? I’m forty-five years old. In the gay community, that’s ancient.”

“You don’t look your age.” Never had.

“Doesn’t matter,” Arthur said. “I’m scared no one will want me.”

“So you cling to someone who isn’t around because even though you’re lonely without him, you’re scared of being lonely?”

“Yeah.” Arthur shook his head. “Sad, isn’t it?”

“Maybe.” But mostly he understood. The fear of the unknown kept Arthur stranded. He’d never be able to move forward until he accepted he might not find someone else, or another chance was possible.

“You have your animals and friends. I invested so much time in Laurence that I pushed a lot of people away. You think I’m a dick.”

“You can be, but you have friends.” He paused. “That’s why you pushed Liam away. You don’t want me to end up like you?”

“I’d call it steered, but yes and no.” Arthur folded his arms. “I did it because…never mind.”

“What is he really? Who is he?”

“Just…he has to tell you. It’s his thing to disclose.”

“Really? I’ve heard you’re sharing his secrets all over town and with everyone but me.”

“I was wrong,” Arthur said. “You’ve seen what I’m going through with Laurence. It’s always a new club or premier. He hasn’t been in a new play in at least a year. No commercial work, either. If he’s not working on film or the stage, then he’s got to have a new guy. I’m sure of it. If I’m not enough to keep Laurence around, then why would you be enough to keep Liam around?”

“Liam isn’t Laurence.” Stone sobered. “I might not be enough for Liam or anyone else.” But he’d never know if he didn’t try. “What if he’s not in show business like Laurence?”

“That’s possible. Not everyone wants that kind of recognition.”

“See?” His phone vibrated. “Hang on. I need to answer this.” He carried the phone to the back porch and stared out at the pond. He didn’t check the number before he answered. “Hello. Cedarwood Furrever Friends. This is Stone. How can I help you?”

“Wow. You’re formal,” Liam said. “I figured I’d get a hi or something. How are you?”

“Good.” He chuckled to hide his nervousness. “I don’t get personal calls often.”

“You’re important.”

“I’m just me. How are you? Settling in? Writing a bunch?” Christ, he asked a lot of questions. “Sorry.”

“You apologize a lot and you don’t have to,” Liam said. “I’m great. I feel more like I belong here in town. I made friends at the gym and made peace with the ladies at the library. I haven’t done as much writing as I’d like, but I’ll get there.”

“You will.”

“Donnie Trask told me to invite Amy Lyons out on a date,” Liam said. “I didn’t have the heart to tell him no and I’m not interested. I got the feeling she’s his friend and he was just orchestrating.”

“When is your date?” Amy would never go out with Liam. She liked bald guys.

“I don’t have one—which is why I’m calling you. Would you like to get coffee? I hear there’s a concert in the park tonight and I’d love company.”

“My brother is here,” Stone said. “And it’s my night to stay late at the shelter. It’s not listed anywhere, but I spend my Thursday nights there. I should get moving so I’m not holding anyone up.” Damn, he’d argued with Arthur for too long and was behind. He strode into the house. He tucked his keys and wallet into his pocket, then placed his hand over the phone speaker. “Hey, Arthur, I need to get to the shelter. Will you lock up for me? Thank you.”

“Who’s on the phone?” Arthur stood. He held on to his jacket.

“Shelter,” Stone said. He’d lied. “They’re short staffed.”

“Oh, I hope everything is okay.” Arthur nodded. “I’ll lock up. No sweat.”

“Thank you. See you later.”Does he believe me? Do I care?He slid behind the wheel of his truck and placed the phone onto the holder. “Sorry. I’m putting you on speaker.” He fiddled with the device. “Liam?”

“I’m here.”

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