Page 91 of Trick or Treat Nurse at My Feet
"But," Sylas continues, "he's also stubborn and has this thing about not being a burden. So if you want this to work, you need to convince him that his problems aren't a burden to you."
"They're not," Words shoot out without hesitation.
"I know that. You know that. Ethan... needs convincing." There's a rustling sound on Sylas's end. "I have to go. I've already said more than I should have."
"Wait," Gavin interjects. "One more question. Do you think they can work this out?"
Another pause. "Yes," Sylassays finally. "I do. But it will take more than grand gestures or pretty words." He hesitates, then adds, "Be patient with him, Tyler. He's worth it."
The call ends, leaving us all staring at Gavin's phone.
"Well, that was surprisingly helpful," Drew observes.
"And he didn't even threaten to kill you," Cam adds cheerfully. "Progress!"
Chapter 23
How To Get Banned From A Frat Party
TYLER
Leaning back, I take in what Sylas just said. Ethan's got something eating at him that he doesn't want to dump on me. It's more than just his family not approving or him worrying about my sexuality.
"What do you think it could be?" The question hangs in the air as I think aloud.
"Financial problems?" James suggests.
"Health issues?" Marcos offers.
"Trouble with a professor?"
"Secret identity as a superhero?"
"Whatever it is," Drew says, cutting through the chatter, "Sylas is right. You need to get Ethan to talk to you about it."
"And how do I do that when he keeps avoiding me?"
Gavin grins. "I could always kidnap him again."
Frustrated as I am, I laugh. "Let's save that as plan B."
We spend the next hour brainstorming less drastic approaches, gradually shifting from serious conversation to frat banter. More beers are opened, someone orders pizza, and I feel the knot in my chest loosen slightly forthe first time in days.
These guys, as clueless as they might be about gay relationships, have my back. It's a reminder that whatever happens with Ethan, I'm not alone.
Saturday night arrives,and the Delta Psi Omega house buzzes with its usual weekend energy. Music pumps through the speakers, red cups litter every surface, and the living room has become an impromptu dance floor for those already drunk.
I'm nursing a beer in the kitchen, half-listening to Cam's story about his disastrous chemistry lab, when I notice a new group entering through the front door. The women of Theta Pi Nu, our neighbours from across the street, have arrived for their usual weekend appearance.
And leading the pack, like she owns the place, is Cher.
"Heads up," Cam mutters, noticing my sudden tension. "Ex at six o'clock."
"Great," a tired breath whooshes out of me as I turn away. "I'm not in the mood for her games tonight."
"Want me to run interference?"
"No, it's fine. I can handle her." Famous last words.
