“That sounds great.”
They made sure Ginger had food and water and headed to San Jose.
They spent the day window shopping, had lunch at a little cafe, and got gelato at a small parlor downtown.
They made it to the park at sunset, and the light shows started. They held hands as they walked through the lights. Houses shone with the season. Groups of people stared at the most elaborate decorations. One house had a light show, but people needed to be in their cars and tuned to the right radio station to hear it. Bernard was getting used to holding hands in public.
“Are you nervous?” Bernard asked.
“About what?”
“We’re holding hands in public again.”
“I think it’s fine. I enjoy holding your hand.”
No one noticed them, or if they did, they didn’t comment.
They had dinner at a small restaurant before heading home.
“I’m sorry I can’t stay tomorrow,” Rory said as they got ready for bed. “I have to leave early in the morning. It’s Christmas Eve and I have to spend time with my family.”
“You don’t have to be sorry. I’m going to head to my brother’s for dinner. I haven’t seen them since…” He didn’t need to say more. He hadn’t seen his brother, Camila, or the boys since the funeral.
“I understand. I know you’ll have a wonderful time with your family. They love you, and I’m sure they miss you.”
“You’re right.”
They embraced and shared a passionate kiss. Rory’s lips invited him. His tongue explored Rory’s mouth and wrestled with his tongue. Bernard’s cock stiffened. The desire to undress Rory surged through his body, but his mind wouldn’t allow it. He wasn’t enough for Rory. Rory had watched him fall apart, and he deserved a man who could hold it together, not him.
Why is Rory staying with me? I can’t give him what he wants. I waited for him, but now that he’s given me his body, I’m the one who can’t perform. I’m broken.
“Damn, you’re a great kisser,” Bernard said. “I can’t get enough of it.”
“You are too,” Rory said. “I love kissing you.”
They changed into bed clothes and climbed under the covers. Bernard put on his mask. Rory held him tight against his chest. It was nice and warm. He wanted to ask Rory to move in with him. Rory stayed here often enough that it felt right. The answer would be no. His mother didn’t approve of them even being friends. There was no telling what she’d say or do if she discovered they lived together. It was impossible. No matter how much he wanted it, he couldn’t ask Rory to make that leap.
Chapter Thirty-Four
Bernard
Thursday, December 24–Friday, December 25
BERNARD SAT ATthe table with Emilio, Camila, and Penelope for Christmas Eve dinner. They were the only family he had left, and being with them was wonderful. He wished Rory could join them, but his family had a tradition, and he needed to stick to it.
“So, how is everything with Rory?” Camila asked.
“It’s fantastic. He was there for me when Dad died, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more.”
They talked about having Rory over for dinner after the holidays. It’d be nice to have a meal with his family and Rory, who was now part of his family.
After dinner, Bernard headed home to finish wrapping the presents. They had a tradition of opening gifts on Christmas morning, and he was behind on wrapping.
He sat in the living room wrapping while reruns ofI Love Lucyplayed.
“Ah, I love this show.”
He finished wrapping at a quarter till midnight.
