Which was mostly flight.
When his man didn’t continue, Gene knew it was time to be honest.
So, he was.
It was time.
He stared into Ethan’s eyes, and he knew that in order for them to right this ship back on the correct path, he had to be upfront with him.
Because when you were in a relationship, you didn’t lie.
“This really hurt me.”
The second it was out of his mouth, Ethan froze like a deer in headlights.
Here it came.
Here came the pain.
“Getting that text and not being able to get to you did some damage, EJ.”
Ethan’s lip actually quivered.
So, Gene took the high road.
“I forgive you, but next time, come to me. We’re a couple, and we could have worked this out as a team. I’m not angry, but please don’t hurt me again like this. While I’ll always find you, it is painful to be abandoned. I have feelings too.”
Ethan knew he did, and he hated that he’d caused Gene even more pain. There was no doubt that he was the master at making a mess.
This was the proof.
“I’m so sorry,” he whispered. “The panic…”
Gene palmed his cheek and pushed on with loving Ethan. No, it wasn’t easy, but it was definitely worth it.
“I understand that it was your fight or flight, and the latter one. I’m not accusing you or being angry because I know what chases you. Next time, let me run with you. Love me like I love you. That’s all I’m asking. Let me be beside you, and not behind you.”
His heart hitched.
Gene had to be in pain both physical from his injuries, and emotional, from what Ethan did.
So, he gave him his heart.
“I love you so much,” Ethan whispered. “I was dying without you. I can’t survive without you, Gene. I don’t know how to do it.”
Yeah, well, him too.
It appeared they were in the same boat. Just one of them was navigating the storm, and one was holding on for dear life. Gene knew his role, and he accepted it.
“Come here,” Gene said, and Ethan didn’t hesitate. Instead, he moved right toward him, and into his bulkier body. That’s when Gene took control, giving Ethan time to hide in the silence.
He pulled his mouth to his, and feasted. In order to silence the demons, he had to give him all of him. There was no doubt that his mate needed to stop thinking and just feel.
That was what Gene could do for him.
In control, he devoured, forcing his partner to shut down all emotions so he could get back to level ground.
And the heat rose.
