Page 45 of Collin: Episodes 4-6
“Never talk to anyone on the phone.”
The Residency kitchen already smelled of wine and spices when Collin stepped through the archway. Mr. Moreau stood at the counter, leeks, garlic, and fresh ginger laid out in front of his hands. He was slowly grinding dried herbs with a mortar and pestle.
“Sir?”
Mr. Moreau turned. “Ah, Collin. Here to join in?”
Collin nodded. He smoothed a hand down his casual T-shirt. “I changed.”
Mr. Moreau smiled. There was something though, just in the edge of his eyes. “Let’s see you with garlic and ginger. We’re having roast with tender greens, quinoa tossed with herbs, and lotus root soup.”
“I’ve never had lotus root.”
“Then you’re in for a treat.”
The roast was in the oven and Mr. Moreau had just finished telling Collin the history of quinoa when Mr. Reevesworth stopped in the doorway.
“Richard.” Mr. Moreau put down the pot of quinoa and crossed the kitchen to kiss his husband. “You still have time to shower.”
“Just three place settings on the table, please, Émeric. Collin will be eating at my feet.”
Mr. Moreau’s hand paused for just the barest of a moment. “Of course.”
“Thank you.” Mr. Reevesworth leaned into the kitchen just long enough to kiss his husband again. He left, his footsteps fading in the direction of his bedroom and shower.
Mr. Moreau returned to the stove. Collin stayed frozen where he was. He had the leeks in his hand, but he couldn’t remember what he was supposed to do with them.
“Collin, kitten?”
“Yes, sir?” Collin turned his face toward the Frenchman.
“Oh, Collin.” Mr. Moreau lifted his hand as if he were going to sweep hair out of Collin’s eyes, but he dropped his fingers without touching Collin. Something cold and empty swept through Collin’s skin where he had not been touched.
“It’s nothing.” Collin swallowed. He moved toward the sink and washed the leek on autopilot, spreading each layer and running his fingers down the trough of the plant.
“Collin.”
Collin flinched. The water was still running over his hands even though he had finished washing the leek.
“If Richard’s words bothered you, I can cut the leek myself. You should speak with him.”
“No, I’m fine. It’s not that.” Collin shook himself. “Just a little tired.”
He didn’t have to look to know Mr. Moreau was staring at him. He ignored it, placing the leek on the chopping board. “How did you want this cut?”
Mr. Moreau gave it a beat longer. Collin refused to look. Whatever this was would pass. It wasn’t his place to ask questions. If he could feel a sudden gulf between him and Mr. Moreau, it wasn’t up to him to cross it. He was the submissive. Mr. Moreau was the dom.
Just as it was Mr. Reevesworth’s decision whether or not he ate at the table. All he had to do was cut the leek.
And set the table.
And open the wine.
If there was white static in his ears, it didn’t matter.
“Hey, little brother.” Damian entered the kitchen in soft pants and a ribbed sweater. “Haven’t seen you all day.”
Collin mustered a smile. “You left early this morning.”
