When they paused again, Kyle nudged him with his shoulder. “You’re kind of a sap.”
Benson grinned. “You like that about me.”
“Maybe,” Kyle mumbled, then leaned into him again. Benson wrapped an arm around Kyle’s waist, letting him settle there. Tomorrow would be another long day. Another drive, another stop. But tonight? Tonight felt like something was real.
“Do you want to talk about our relationship or wait until tomorrow?”
“Please, Daddy Benson.”
“I’m going to work on you eating healthier foods. Are you okay with that?”
“Yes, Daddy Benson. But I eat everything, so no problem there.”
“Really?” Benson raised his brows, not believing that was possible. He could see Kyle’s desperation for his approval in his eyes; a need that bordered on unhealthy. He’d have to work on that, so he felt safe disagreeing with no fear of repercussions from his daddy.
Kyle lowered his head to avoid eye contact. “I guess there are some vegetables I don’t like. Maybe some other food. I just don’t think about them. Sorry, Daddy Benson.”
“I’m not here to force you to eat what you hate. I want to know what you don’t like.”
“Oh, I’ll make you a list of what I don’t like if that’s okay?” There was a sadness across his face Benson couldn’t read. His change in complexion was a reaction to something buried deep within his past. He hoped Kyle would eventually share what he was thinking about.
“That’s a great start.”
“What rules are you talking about?”
“Rules are different on the road since we’re limited to sitting in the truck most of the time.”
“What would they be if we weren’t on the road?”
“I haven’t done this in a while. I’ll write them down at breakfast. My rules will be created as if we’re living in the same home, but some can apply in the truck and in the motel rooms.”
“Can you just tell me now?” With a sigh, Kyle crossed his arms across his chest.
“Okay, Kyle.”
“Wait, can I record it with my phone?” Kyle asked.
“Sure you can. Thanks for asking too.” Benson moved his arm from around Kyle so he could retrieve his phone from the nightstand. He pushed a button to record, and nodded.
“These rules are for my beautiful Kyle.” Benson paused, then with a playful glint in his eye, he winked. “They’re not in any specific order of importance.
1. Talk to me with respect—there’s no need to be rude.
2. Keep it positive.
3. When I ask you to do something, just do it—no drama.
4. Don’t do dumb stuff that could get you or someone else hurt.
5. Stick to your curfew if I give you one.
6. Be real. Honest conversations go a long way with me.
7. Take care of yourself—eat, sleep, move, breathe. Repeat.
8. Keep me in the loop if something bothers you.
9. Don’t break the law or do shady stuff. It’s not worth it.
