Page 33 of Galen's Redemption
“You’re blushing!”
Galen covered his cheeks. “I am not. It’s from the chili.”
“I have never seen youlike this before.”
He’d never met anyone like Robert before. Galen’s entire social life prior to this was blowjobs in an alley, then zipping up and going to put on a smiling face as Father announced their latest acquisition at a board meeting. Dating? No way in hell.
A blast of warm air signaled the door being opened. When Galen glanced over, he froze. No way could Robert be here now. “Oh myGod.”
Andy looked around. “What?”
“That’s him.”
Andy grinned. “He’s cute.” He raised his hand and waved. “Robert? Why don’t you come join us?”
“What the hell are you doing?”
“Oh, honey. You’re going to thank me later.”
Robert strode over to the table and put his hands on the top. “Galen, good to see you.” He held his hand out to Andy. “Robert Kotke.”
Andy took it, a big smile his face.“Andrew Messenger. It’s good to meet you. Would you like to join us?”
Robert slipped his hand into his pocket, then gave them both a wink. “If you don’t mind. Let me grab something to eat, and I’ll be right back.” He stood straight and walked toward the counter.
“What the fuck? Why did you do that?”
Andy glanced down at his wrist. “Oh, look at the time. I have to go.” He stood, but Galen grabbedhis hand.
“You’re not wearing a watch, asshole.”
Andy smiled. “No, but I still need to go.” He leaned in. “Take him out for a test drive. Maybe you’ll find you like the older model.” He popped his head up. “Robert? I’m sorry, but I have to go. Hope to get another chance to get to know you.”
And before anyone could say anything, Andy was out the door.
Galen sat there, flummoxed. What the hellwas he supposed to do? If he was smart, he’d get up and follow Andy, but Robert was smiling at him, and Galen’s stomach started doing flips.
Robert came back and set his bowl down on the table, then took a seat across from Galen. “He ditched you, huh?”
“What? No! Andy’s my best friend—he wouldn’t do that.” Even though he totally had.
“Calm down, Galen. I’m teasing you, nothing more. I apologizeif I’ve impugned your friend’s reputation.” He picked up a spoon and started eating.
Galen sat watching him, the way his mouth worked, the curve of his throat as he swallowed. He couldn’t tear his gaze away, no matter how hard he tried.
“Galen?”
“Hm?” He jerked back to find Robert grinning at him. “I’m sorry. What did you say?”
“I asked what you were doing here.”
“I brought Andy here so hecould try the chili.” Lame. “I mean, he asked me to dinner, and I thought he might like the food here.” Less lame. But not by much.
“And did he enjoy it?”
“What’s with the twenty questions?” As soon as the words were out of his mouth, Galen regretted them.
“Just trying to make conversation. If you’d rather, I can go sit somewhere else. After all, it wasn’t you who invited me.”
