Page 33 of Heart of the High King
Aleksander’s eyes closed for a moment as his expression blanked. “I know you and I have different…goals, we’ll call them, for the future. I don’t think just because we kissed that you’re ready to move in or anything. Still friends, right?”
“Of course.” Rafferty strode to the car while his emotions pummeled him. Unable to understand why his life was so complicated or why he couldn’t be normal, all Rafferty had ever wanted was to find some semblance of happiness. The crazy thing was that he thought he’d had it right up until the moment he met Aleksander—easily the best and most confusing experience. “Your friendship means a lot to me.”
The D’Vaire High King buried his hands in his pockets. “I feel the same way.”
After opening the door, Rafferty put his hand on the top and gave his attention to the man he’d made uncomfortable simply because he couldn’t be who he wanted. There was no way he could leave knowing Aleksander was ill at ease—not when he’d quickly become the most cherished person in his heart. “I liked the kiss. It was nice.”
“Me too, Rafe.”
Since his smile had returned, Rafferty climbed into the vehicle. Backing it up, he turned around, putting himself near where Aleksander was still standing. Once again, giving in to instinct, he rolled down the window. “Hey, Sander?”
“Yeah?”
“Thanks for making my first kiss special.” With heat rushing to his face, Rafe hit the gas, not giving Aleksander a chance to respond. Glancing quickly into the rearview mirror, Rafferty saw Aleksander fish his phone from his pocket. A few seconds later, his device beeped. Refusing to give in to the impulse to read it, Rafferty made it all the way to the rental car facility before he caved.
We’ve just found something else we have in common. It was my first one too. And it was perfect. Thanks, Rafe. Come back to D’Vaire soon.
A heart emoji ended the text, and Rafferty didn’t hesitate to respond with the same little red symbol. Only, he sent Aleksander three.
