“I need to be more comfortable in public with you. I can’t keep hiding who I am. The more I do it, the more normal it feels. One day I will be so comfortable being with you that I can tell my mother.”
Bernard leaned in to kiss him. Rory didn’t back away. Their lips melded together. Couples passed, but no one said anything.
“You’re so wonderful,” Rory said.
“I think you are too.”
They finished their walk and headed back to the blanket.
“So, since we both have to be up early tomorrow for work, I was wondering if I can stay the night at your place,” Rory said.
“Of course, I’d love that.”
A grin spread across his face. Bernard could hold and cuddle Rory on the couch and lay with him as they drifted off to sleep.
“Okay, let me go home and get a change of clothes and I’ll meet you at your place.”
“Great, I’ll order pizza and we can cuddle on the couch and watch a movie.”
“That sounds perfect.”
They kissed goodbye in the parking lot, and Bernard got into his truck.
The drive home was invigorating. He was going to get the rare night with Rory, where they could be themselves and hide nothing from each other.
*
AFTER AN EVENINGof movies and pizza, they climbed into bed together. Rory wrapped his arm around Bernard and held tight. Bernard breathed in his scent. They’d showered, but Rory had an odor he adored. The aroma that drew Bernard to him.
“I’m glad you asked to come over,” Bernard said.
“I want to cuddle with you as often as I can.”
“It’s nice when you hold me,” Bernard said. “I feel your love, your passion, and I know you’re here with me. That you chose me.”
“What we have is special to me. I want to be with you. I just wish I could be out. Not hide anymore.”
Bernard shifted around and locked eyes with Rory.
“You can come out when you’re ready. Not a moment sooner. You’ll know when it’s right.”
“Thank you.”
Their lips met, and warmth enveloped his body. Bernard moved his hands over Rory’s furry body. Rory no longer wore pajamas when he slept over. The warmth of Rory’s belly pressed against his own.
They’d only had sex twice, and both times were amazing. Rory was a passionate lover. He cared about what Bernard wanted. Just like Bernard cared about what he wanted.
“I’ve set the alarm for six, is that early enough for you?” Bernard asked.
“That’s plenty of time.”
“Okay. I love you.”
“I love you too.”
Bernard rolled over and pushed back until Rory’s chest was against his back. Rory’s big arm wrapped around his chest. He wanted this every night. He wanted Rory to stay with him. When Rory held him, everything felt right. They could face anything together. He didn’t know if Rory would ever move in with him, but he hoped one day Rory would say yes.
Chapter Twenty-Nine
