Page 42 of Soothe Me, Daddy
Chapter 14
Isaac
Henley had been working alone for the past three weeks. Every time they spoke on the phone, Isaac could tell he was having a good day and was excited about what he was doing. He could also hear the melancholy of not having Isaac with him.
As Isaac had predicted, Henley came to Isaac’s house any night they were both at home. They had only been apart four nights.
It was because of this that Isaac decided to change things. Or, at least, to ask Henley an important question, despite having only been together for a short time, Isaac knew it was the right decision.
He had been to Henley’s parents' house the week before, and they had welcomed him with open arms. Isaac had decided there and then, he needed Henley in his life for as long as he could have him.
Pops, as he asked Isaac to call him, cornered him in the hallway after dinner. Isaac could tell something was on his mind, and he was happy to listen and talk through anything they needed. He would do anything for Henley.
“Henley is incredibly special, Isaac. You need to treat him with care and consideration, especially with the age difference. I’m not saying I disagree with it because I don’t, but please be careful with him. He’s a soft soul.”
“I know he is, and he’s precious to me. I would like to ask him to move in with me. He’s been struggling with our work schedule, and I think having a place that is ours to come home to each time, even when I can’t be there, would be helpful to him. Do you agree?”
He hadn’t planned on asking Pops for his advice, but the words just came out.
“Don’t you think that’s a little soon?”
“Not really. We spend so much of our time together already. If something is going to go wrong in our relationship, it would more than likely happen once we’re living together. God forbid, but if that happens, why not figure it out sooner rather than later?”
Pops paused, gaze roaming Isaac’s face. “I think that’s an incredibly good idea. I like that you take care of him, Isaac.”
“It’s who I am,” Isaac replied.
After that, they did not mention it again, but he could see a new light shining in Pops’ eyes, and he was happy he’d been able to give Henley’s parents some peace of mind.
So, tonight, he was planning on asking Henley to move in, officially. Henley already had a key, but Isaac wanted to do it properly. If he ever got home. Henley had rung from the road saying the traffic was awful because of an accident on the motorway, and with it being Friday as well, tailbacks were miles long. Isaac had been keeping an eye on the travel news and traffic reports. He’d not heard from Henley in over half an hour, though, so he tried calling him. No answer.
He began pacing the floor, worry flooding his body until a key turned in the latch. He whirled towards the door, seeing a haggard, tired-looking Henley entering. Isaac hustled over to him and wrapped him in his arms, squeezing him tight.
“I missed you, Daddy,” Henley said, voice strained.
“I missed you, too, sweetheart.”
They stayed in the embrace for several long minutes, Isaac breathing in Henley’s scent, reaffirming he was there and safe. Isaac pulled back, cupping Henley’s face and pressing their lips together in a sweet kiss.
“Dinner is ready. I just need to warm it up. Are you ready for it now?”
“Yes, please, Daddy. I’m starving!”
“I thought you might be.” Isaac leaned down to help Henley with his shoes, led him to the breakfast bar and sat him down with a brief kiss. Isaac filled a glass with juice and placed it in front of Henley. “Drink up while I warm your food. Tell me about your day.”
Henley’s voice was excited as he spoke about the store he’d visited that day. He and the manager got on well together, which was great news. A good rapport with managers always went a long way to building good relationships.
When Henley’s food was ready, Isaac gave it to him and sat next to him at the counter. In between bites, Henley continued his story. Once he had finished, Henley appeared to wilt.
“You’re worn out.”
“I’m so glad it’s Friday. I love the job, but god!”
Isaac chuckled. “Well, I have something I want to talk to you about.” Henley looked at him, and Isaac could see the worry creeping into his eyes. “Nothing bad.” He twisted on the stool to face Henley and took his hands in his. “As my mother would say, this may be locking the stable door after the horse has bolted, but I would like you to consider moving in with me.”
Henley gaped, mouth opening and closing. Isaac gave him a moment for the idea to sink in before saying any more.
“Seriously?”
