Page 37 of Second Chances in Cedarwood

“I’m glad I visited the hot dog shop and finally talked to you,” Henry said. “My life went from black and white to color with you in it.”

“Mine, too.” He kissed Henry. He’d never been one to fall in love so fast, but he never wanted to give his heart this quickly, either. “Henry?” It was time to tell his lover how he felt.

Henry’s breathing evened and his arm grew heavy on Jack’s belly. Jack nudged him, but Henry didn’t move.He must’ve fallen asleep.Jack suppressed a laugh. He’d been at the precipice of telling Henry he loved him, but his partner was asleep. Of course. Oh well. He’d snuggle with Henry a bit longer, then sneak out long enough to count the take.

Love was grand, but the business was never far away. He’d rather have it handled and be free to relax than have his tasks hanging over his head.

* * * *

Jack woke early the next morning, and Henry followed shortly thereafter. Both hydrated and changed clothes for a morning run. Jack mused at the way they’d fallen into a routine already. Plus, he liked having someone to run with. He loved having Henry in his bed and life.

“What?” Henry tipped his head. “You’re staring at me. Is my hair standing on end?”

“No.” Jack averted his gaze when he tied his shoes. “You’re easy to watch.” He glanced over at his lover.

Henry smiled, then groaned and picked up his phone. “Of course.”

“Huh?” This time he did stare at Henry. Jack set his own phone to play music while he ran. He wanted to bother him but hesitated until his curiosity got the best of him. “Something wrong?”

“Not exactly.” Henry resumed stretching. “I’ve been given a chance to write about a set of galleries that were originally a factory and they’ve kept quite a bit of the factory in original condition. It’s considered a travel destination in Chicago.” He shrugged and tucked his left leg to his chest. “It’s close and the money is good, plus they’re paying me to fly there.”

“Sounds great.” He wasn’t into the art scene and knew little about architectural design. “When do you leave?”

“Tomorrow evening.” Henry switched legs and stretched his right one. “I know, it’s quick.”

“Like when the shop closes?”

“Yeah. I’ll just head up after you’re done and park in the longer-term lot. That way I can get home faster.” Henry stood. “I’ll need to pack, find the chargers I lost when I moved…I’ll need my notebooks and to find my bag for my laptop.”

“Henry.” Jack bit back a chuckle as Henry got lost in his monologue about what he’d need to bring. Once Henry focused, it took a lot to deter him. Jack touched Henry’s arm. “Henry.”

‘Sorry.” Henry gestured to the door. “We can go.”

“No.” He stopped Henry. “I’ll take you to the airport. No problem. “Plus, it’ll give us some time together before you go. I insist.”

Henry grasped Jack’s hand. “You’re sure?”

“Yeah.” He swatted Henry’s ass. “You’ll give me something to miss. I can’t ogle anyone else’s butt while they work.” He nodded to the door. “How long are you going to be gone?”

“Three days.” Henry ventured out to the porch with Jack. “I’ll be home Saturday afternoon.” His eyes widened. “During the last hour you’re open or right after you close, if the plane is late.”

“No big deal. I’ll close early.” Jack locked the house, then tucked his keys into his zippered pocket. “It’s a good reason.”

“You’re sure? I don’t want you to lose business.”

“I need to take more breaks, and this is a good reason.”

Henry crooked his eyebrow. “I’m not that exciting,” he said. “But I’ll take lots of pictures—so many you’ll think you’re there with me.”

“I’d like to be, but this is your job. One of them. It bugs me you’re going because I’m going to miss the hell out of you, but I don’t want you to stay here and miss out. I’m glad you’re doing your job.” He swatted Henry’s ass again. “Really.”

“Okay.” Henry smiled and tucked his earbuds into his ears.

“Ready?” He adjusted his music and nodded.

“Try to keep up,” Henry said and started off, leaving Jack behind.

Jack laughed. He’d gladly follow this man everywhere. He loved him so much. He’d stepped out of his comfort zone and allowed someone to get close to him. Henry made him happy. He made him free.

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