Bernard met his gaze. Did Rory mean him? He could face any obstacle with Rory, but he didn’t have the guts to say anything to him. He couldn’t tell Rory his feelings. It hurt, but it’s what he had to do.
“I think I could,” Bernard said. “One day, I hope to find that person. I’d cherish every moment if I could be with someone who was like a best friend, confidant, and partner all in one.”
What was he saying? He just told Rory he wanted him. His face heated. What would Rory say? He couldn’t be rejected by him now. He’d spent this time keeping him at arm’s length.
“I’m sure you’ll find that man one day,” Rory said. “You might have met him and the two of you just haven’t realized it.”
Rory’s green eyes dug into his own. Rory meant himself. Bernard’s insides squirmed. This was his chance to tell him.
“Maybe one day,” Bernard said. “For now, we should walk off these cupcakes.”
I’m a coward. He gave me an opening, and I blew it.
“Let’s go.”
They walked around the lake. The sun shimmered on the water’s surface. The soft breeze ran through his hair. He stole glances at Rory. Three months ago, he didn’t think he’d have Rory back. Now, almost every Saturday belonged to them.
“Yesterday was fun,” Rory said. “I wish I could’ve stayed for the fireworks.”
“They were great. So much fun.”
“Maybe next year.”
“That would be nice.”
Bernard couldn’t help noticing every couple who passed. They held hands, some kissed, and they did it in the open. No one confronted them or harassed them. They existed without harassment. Why couldn’t he exist? Why couldn’t those who disagreed just leave them alone?
“Would you like to come over for a movie and some takeout?” Bernard asked as they packed up the supplies.
“That sounds nice. What were you thinking?”
“I was thinking Fook Xing, they have amazing General Zao’s chicken.”
“Sounds good.”
“What would you like?”
Rory wanted hot and sour soup, orange chicken with rice, and steamed vegetables.
“Got it.”
“I’m going to head home, feed Mina, and I’ll be over around six?”
“See you at six.”
Bernard placed an order to be delivered at six-thirty. They’d have time to choose a movie and get settled in before the food arrived.
He dashed to clean his living room as best he could. It was already five.
Rory arrived with a stack of movies in hand.
“I didn’t know what movies you had, so I thought I’d bring some of my favorites to give us options.”
Bernard shuffled through them, and they decided onThe Devil’s Advocate.
They ate takeout and watched the movie. Bernard sat on the edge of the couch, as far from Rory as he could. He didn’t want to give the wrong impression.
When the movie finished, Rory got up to leave. “I should get home and get some sleep.”
