“I want to stay inside of you forever,” Darien said.
“Stay inside. It’s hard for me to trust and let you take over, but I’m going to try my best.”
“I know you will. Let me know immediately any time you’re upset.”
“I will.”
He wrapped his arms around Baran and turned him to face him, gripping him. After a while, they went to the bathroom. Darien cleaned Baran and himself with a washcloth. They washed their hands together. Then he leaned over and kissed Baran.
Darien and Baran returned to the bedroom, surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the room after making love. Baran settled on the bed while Darien stopped at the bookshelf in the reading nook, pulling out and looking at a few titles. “So, what do you feel like reading tonight?” he asked.
Baran looked over the selection, considering his options. “How about something light and cozy? Maybe a classic novel or a collection of short stories?”
Darien nodded, thumbing through the books. “I have just the thing.” He pulled out a beautifully bound edition ofA Christmas Carolby Charles Dickens. “How about this? It’s perfect for the season and has a heartwarming message.”
Baran’s face lit up with excitement. “That sounds perfect. I’ve always wanted to read it.”
Darien smiled, opening the book to the first page. “Then let’s get started.”
They settled in, Darien beginning to read aloud, his voice filling the room with the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and the spirits of Christmas. As Darien read, he felt a deep sense of contentment, knowing that he was building a future filled with love, trust, and shared moments like this one.
Chapter Twelve
Darien
Once they arrived home,Darien and Baran settled into the living room, a space that exuded warmth and sophistication. The room was decked floor-to-ceiling with bookshelves filled with an eclectic mix of novels and reference books. A grand piano occupied one corner, its polished surface gleaming under the soft glow of the chandelier. The fireplace crackled gently, warming the space and casting a cozy light that danced across the room. Comfortable armchairs and a plush sofainvited relaxation, while handpicked artwork collected from art galleries’ charity shows added a touch of elegance.
As they made themselves comfortable on the couch beside each other, Miss Charlotte entered with a tray of Turkish tea and freshly baked cookies. She placed the tray on the coffee
table. “I thought you two might enjoy this,” she said before retreating to give them some privacy.
“Thank you, Miss Charlotte. You really know how to make me feel special,” Baran said.
“She’s the best,” Darien added.
Darien poured them each a cup of tea, the welcoming aroma mingling with the scent of the cookies. He handed Baran a cup and settled back onto the couch, feeling a sense of contentment.
Baran took a sip of his tea, then looked at Darien with a thoughtful expression. “Tonight was one of my best nights ever. Thank you for everything, Daddy Darien.”
Darien smiled. “I’m glad you enjoyed it.”
They sat in silence for a moment before Darien spoke again, his tone serious yet gentle. “I think we should talk about us—about rules and consequences like I promised at dinner. It’s important to me we understand each other.”
Baran nodded, setting his cup down. “I can’t wait until I hear the rules. I’m so excited you want me.”
Seeing Baran’s joy, a weightlifted from Darien’s shoulders. He stood and walked to the bookshelf, pulled out a folder out, then returned the couch.
“Would you like me to read it to you, or do you want to read it to me?”
“Read it to me, but will I get to keep a copy so I can review it?”
“Of course, this folder is yours after I read the rules.”
“What else is in there?”
“Little surprises for you. Are you ready for me to read them?”
“Can I kiss you first?”
