Page 155 of Something Like Winter

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just felt strange, because it really was a lot to process, even for Tim. “We’ll take it slow,” Tim said. “There’s no need to rush into

anything. I just want to spend time with you. Okay?”

Ben’s head nodded against his neck, and when he pulled away, his

smile was brave.

“I love it,” Ben said, glancing at the painting. He took hold of Tim’s

hand with firm determination. “I love seeing you again.”

“Yeah, it feels good. Crazy and unreal, but good.”

Ben sniffed, sighed, and composed himself. When he spoke again, he

sounded like his old self. “Where’s the old painting? If you sold it at the

gallery, I demand half the proceeds.”

“You’ll have to ask Allison,” Tim said. “Maybe she’s planning to

give it to Brian as a present.”

“She better not!”

Tim squeezed his hand. “She’s probably back at the gallery by now.

We could return there if you want. I should probably be there since it’s

my show.”

“It’s your first exhibition, right?”

“Yeah, but I don’t mean that as much as the gallery opening. I’m

heading the Eric Conroy Foundation now.”

Tim told him all about his work as they headed back to the gallery,

glad he had something to report that he could feel proud of. No more

spoiled rich boy wallowing in his own misery. Everything was different,

and maybe this time it would be enough.

The nightlife had poured into Austin’s streets, the vibe at the gallery

more like a party now. Taking care of the visitors and maintaining order

occupied most of Tim’s attention, but every time he searched the crowds

he found Ben not far away. Their eyes would lock and they would smile.

Definitely a promising start, but so much still needed to happen. At the end of the evening, Tim offered to drive Ben home. Allison

complained teasingly, insisting that Ben was her date before winking and

leaving them alone. The ride back to Ben’s house was quiet. Tim wasn’t

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