Page 21 of Embracing James

He checked the property on his phone. The house was indeed for sale and not too costly, but it would need some repairs. “Will the residents also be tasked with upkeep?”

“They will. That’s part of the deal. You carry your weight here.”

Nice.“Do you have counselors that come in?” He could’ve used one when he’d first broken out on his own.

“I do, but I’d like to have someone available on a more regular basis. At the Nesper Street house, it’d be possible,” Tad said. “It’d be a blessing, too.”

“Let me see what I can come up with.” He could afford the property and he’d turn it over to the shelter to be run. The tax write-off would be sweet, but he wanted to save other at-risk LGBTQ kids, too.

“Thank you,” Tad said. “You’re a good man.”

“I’ve seen a lot, but I wouldn’t say I’m that great.” He left the table. “I’ll be in touch.”

“I hope you are.” Tad walked Paul to the front door. “This town isn’t bad, but the kids who end up here feel like they don’t belong. They’re in a bad way and need someone to say it’ll be all right. Some of them have lived on the streets and others end up working the streets. I want to help them see they’re worthy and wonderful. They are an asset. Plus, a bigger place would help me get them better and discreet health care.”

“They’re afraid?”

“Some are. It’s a lot to take in and it’s embarrassing to admit they’ve got a problem or need to talk to someone. We all struggle and I hope to make it a little less of one.” Tad shrugged. “I’m trying.”

“Then I’ll do my best for you.” He left the shelter and called his bookkeeper again. If he could get a deal going today, then he would. He contacted the real estate agent handling the house to see if he could view the property that day.

Why wait?

* * * *

Paul returned to his condo and changed. He didn’t want to wear his suit any longer. He’d been a businessman for long enough today.

He’d gone through the Nesper Street house and felt confident about purchasing it for the LGBTQ center. He liked what he’d seen and believed the elbow grease needed to get the house ready for move-in day wouldn’t be much. All they had to do was get the paperwork rolling and the offer accepted.

Right now, he needed to go for a run. Time to work off some excess energy. He locked the condo, then tucked both his key and phone into his armband case. He positioned his earbuds, then turned on his music and went through his battery of stretches.

Ten minutes later, he set off for his run. His muscles ached but he loved running. The fresh air, being alone with his thoughts and burning calories were good things. He should’ve texted James, though, before he left. Too late to contact him now. Unfortunately, he’d been busy. He liked spending time with James, but he needed to be with someone who could handle the intensity of his job and being left alone a lot.

He believed James would understand.

Being with a businessman required patience and passion. James was so much like him. They should be able to make it.

He jogged to the salon. The marquee was lit and flashing. He slowed, then turned his music off before heading inside. If nothing else, the sign drew attention.

James stood at the reception stand. “Hi. Look at you.”

“Hi.” He crossed to James and kissed him. They had to make this look good, right? Plus, he liked kissing James. He didn’t need to fake anything. “How’s things? Where’s Doob?”

“He’s over here. Doob.” He gestured to the furry dog bed. “Your buddy’s here.”

Doob jumped to his feet and rushed over to Paul. He wagged his tail as he collided with Paul’s legs.

“Hi, bud.” He petted the dog. “Good day?”

“He’s had a great day. Mine’s been decent. I’ve been busy.” James closed the appointment book. “I hired a new stylist today and got a request for a friend of mine, Charlie, to get him a date.”

“Will you?” He hoped not with James.

“I will. He’s a good guy.”

“With you?” Hereallyhoped not.

“No.” James smiled. “I set him up with a fellow named Mack. They’re both into comic books and cosplay. They should hit it off.”

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