Page 77 of Companion Required

“Then I’ll pay the bills.”

“Contribute, maybe. Fine.”

“And I’m cooking for us. At least three or four times a week. Man cannot live by takeaway alone.”

“Whatever you say.”

“Hang on,” said Kieran, peering curiously around. “Where’s your Christmas tree?”

“I—I don’t usually bother. When it’s just me.”

‘Well, that’s going to change, too,” said Kieran, folding his arms across his chest. “You know what? We’re having the best fuck-off Christmas tree over there by the front window. So the whole world can see. And we’re having all our friends over for a fantastic Christmas party.”

Kennedy laughed, and already felt a ripple of relief running through him. Life—that was what this house needed, some life. Something Kieran could provide in abundance.

“Whatever you want,” said Kennedy, heading towards the stairs. “Let’s haul your things upstairs. And, by the way, Leonard’s office is on the way to mine. So as long as you don’t mind leaving early in the morning—around seven-thirty—I’ll give you a lift to work every day. So, here’s the upstairs.”

Kennedy showed Kieran the three spare bedrooms before trailing him into the master bedroom. After appraising the bed for a moment, Kieran poked his head into the adjoining bathroom before strolling into the room that had been turned into a wardrobe.

“Fuck. Your walk-in wardrobe is almost as big as my sister’s apartment. Why is it half-empty?”

“That side used to be Patrick’s.”

“Oh, I see. Shall I hang my things there?”

“You’re going to share this room with me?” asked Kennedy, feeling the smile lighting his face.

“Of course I am, old man.”

“In which case, you can put things wherever you like. Before you come and have a shower with me. This is your home now.”

Kennedy had been putting his jacket on a hanger, and noticed Kieran quickly turn his head away and bring a hand to his eyes. This time Kennedy stopped him, gently twisted him around and pulled his hand away. Kieran didn’t resist. Once again tears filled his eyes.

“What’s the matter, love? Did I say something wrong?”

“No, of course you didn’t. I’m being soft. But you don’t know how long I’ve waited to hear that single word, one that everyone I know seems to take so much for granted.”

“Home?”

“Yes, home.”

“Kieran, youarehome. This is your home now.”

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