Page 26 of The Spirit Key
Her laugh brought back memories of happier times. “There were a lot of times when you were growing up that I wanted to ask you why you didn’t just lick him and say he was yours. You had such affection when you saw him, and it was so sweet. Then I noticed he looked at you the same way. I always hoped the two of you would find your way to each other. Tim definitely brought out the best in you.”
My cheeks warmed at the thought other people could see Tim and I cared for each other. “I should let you go. I need to call Ryan.”
“Just so you know, I did tell him you were home. I figured it might be a few days before you got around to calling him and—”
“Hey!” Fine, I would have procrastinated. I admit it—to myself, if no one else.
“He’s excited to hear you’re back, but I don’t know if it’s so he can hug you or deck you. Right now, my money is on the latter. And if he does hit you, don’t think you don’t deserve it.”
No, I totally did, but I was determined to be the better person my mom thought I was, and the one Tim was worthy of.
I WON’Tdeny my surprise when both Ryan and Tim agreed to meet me at the diner.
I walked in to get us a table, letting the server know there would be three of us. The young waiter introduced himself as Noel and told me to grab a seat anywhere. I figured near the windows would be best, so if Ryan hit me, at least there would be witnesses.
The diner was nice. I loved the little jukeboxes on the table, and when I saw it had “Wannabe” by the Spice Girls, I had to hear it. The quarter slipped down the slot, and I punched C6 to play the song, then leaned against the seat and let the music take me back.
Okay, I know what you’re thinking, but I was a gay kid who might have, once or twice, stood in front of my mirror with the hairdryer pretending to be Posh. Don’t judge me.
Noel put down three glasses of water, then stepped back, swaying his hips. “I like this song too.”
“Noel….” The bear cooking glared at him. “We talked about this stuff, pup. You don’t want to be teasing me, do you?”
A cheeky grin graced Noel’s pretty face. “No, sir. Sorry.” He winked at me. “Don’t mind Lincoln. He’s a little growly, but he’s a great guy. I’ll come back after your guests arrive and take your orders.” He turned and practically floated back to where the cook was, then leaned in for a kiss. It was so damned sweet, I might have been a bit jealous. But then again, I bet they weren’t having sex as hot as I had with Tim.
Speaking of which, just as the song ended, the door swung open and Tim stepped in with Ryan. My stomach knotted at seeing my brother. He had put on muscle and was now sporting a close-cut beard and mustache. There were fine lines around his eyes and mouth, and I wondered how much of that I was responsible for.
I stood, waiting to see what Ryan would do. If he decided to hit me, I wouldn’t defend myself. If there was one thing I’d learned in the last two days, it was that I was a selfish asshole who had a lifetime of screw-ups to correct.
Ryan stopped and stared at me for a moment, then rushed toward me. Of all the reactions I expected, having him scoop me into his arms and squeeze until I thought he’d snap my spine wasn’t one of them.
“Oh God. It’s really you.” He stepped back, and the sheen of tears was obvious. “Please tell me I’m not dreaming.”
“Not dreaming. It’s really me.”
He hugged me again, and this time I hugged him back. We stood there for a good five minutes, just clutching each other.
“You’re an asshole,” he whispered in my ear.
“I know. I’m sorry. I never thought I was hurting anyone. I figured you would all be happier if I was gone.”
“No. Never happier. I missed you every fucking day.” He let me go and stepped back. “I prayed you’d come home to us, and you know how I feel about praying.”
Yeah, Ryan had nothing good to say about any organized religion. Since about fifteen, he’d said he could be spiritual but didn’t need anything but him communicating with the universe.
When I turned back toward Tim, he was standing there, uncertain. That look on his face? Totally my fault. I went over and wrapped my arms around him, basking in his presence.
“I’m sorry.”
He was sorry? “No, don’t be. I was the one who overreacted. I seem to have a lot to learn about being around people again.”
He kissed my forehead. “Can I help teach you? I know a few good punishments if you don’t learn the lessons well.”
Andsproing! Just like that, in the middle of the diner, my dick was hardening.
My face burned as I slid into the booth, not wanting anyone to see me. Of course, Ryan had to notice, because he was standing there smirking at me.
“So, this is new.” Ryan was always the master of understatement.
