Page 30 of Embracing James

“Me too.” He really wanted this deal to work.

“When I came out, my mother wasn’t a fan, but she came around. I was lucky. She accepted me—after her initial shock—and she loved me,” James said. “When I was a kid and figuring myself out, I had this dream that this wonderful person would come into my life and rescue me. This person—male or female—would understand and love me. My quirks wouldn’t be bad.”

“They’re not.”

“No, but it takes a strong person to be this understanding.”

“Am I on the list to be that guy?”

“You are.”

“Good.”

James shifted on the bed. “I should take my makeup off before I sleep in it and wreck my skin.”

“I should remove mine, too.” Paul left the bed with him and headed into the bathroom. “I have special water that keeps the skin cleaner.”

“Nice.” James stood with him at the sink. He and Paul took turns washing off the makeup.

Paul tried not to stare at James, but he’d never seen him without his makeup. He was sexy with the makeup and beautiful without it, too.

“What?” James held on to the edge of the counter. “You had my dick in your mouth and seen me naked, so it’s not like you can’t believe what you’re seeing.”

“I sort of can’t.” It wasn’t the right thing to say, but he couldn’t think of something better.

“Jesus.” James turned away from him and left the room.

“Wait.” He turned off the light and followed James to the bed. “Don’t get defensive. I’m not trying to hurt you. Far from it.”

“Then what?”

“I’ve never seen you barefaced.” He sat on the edge of the bed and tugged James onto his lap. “You never let anyone see you this way.”

“Duke calls it my shield.”

“Duke?” He didn’t recognize that name.

“A friend. He’s engaged now.”

“Ah.” He nodded once and stroked James’ bare back. “I can see your face is your shield. You feel safe with it in place.”

“I do.”

“Why? You’re handsome with and without it. I love when you go glam, but I like this way, too.” He trailed his fingers along the upper swell of James’ ass. “You’re handsome.”

“I’m plain.”

“You might think so, but I disagree.”

James fidgeted. “I feel like I’m missing a piece of me without it.”

“I know. I feel the same way when I have to go out without mine,” Paul said. “But you’re comfortable in yours and I’m afraid of being judged in mine.”

“I feel like I’m being judged without it. I saw the look of shock on your face,” James said. “Your eyes got all big and surprised.”

“Well, yeah, but it’s because I know seeing you this way is a gift. You must really trust me if you’ll let me see you so vulnerable. I’m honored you chose me and let me in.”

James smoothed his hands over Paul’s chest. “It’s hard for me.”

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