Page 215 of In at the Deep End

“I mean it.”

“Owen…”

“I don’t want to waste another day.” He stepped closer, sliding his arm around Matt’s waist. “You’ve helped put this place together. You’ve spent most of the summer making it feel like home.”

Matt swallowed.

Then Owen leaned and brushed his lips against Matt’s cheek. “You belong here,” he whispered. “This is your home too. If you want it.”

Matt pulled back, studying his face. “You’re serious.”

“Completely.”

His eyes shone. “Then… yes.”

Owen let out a breath. “Really?” He wrapped his arms around Matt and crushed him against his chest.

Matt laughed, and the sound reverberated through him. “Really. If you’re sure.”

Owen kissed his temple. “I’ve never been more sure of anything.”

Then Matt cupped Owen’s cheek. “Then there’s something we need to discuss.”

He stilled. “Should I be worried?”

“It’s about your parties.”

Owen hadn’t even given them a moment’s thought. “What about them? Do you want me to call it a day, is that it?”

Matt shook his head. “No, don’t do that.”

“I don’t need them, you know. They filled the void after Ben died. And I didn’t throw them when he was alive.”

“I know, but you have so many friends. Don’t cut them off.”

Owen studied him. “And should the… nature of the parties change?”

Matt shook his head. “No. Why should it?”

“Because we’re together now.”

“Exactly. Which means we get to decide what that looks like.” Matt smiled. “Your parties are your parties. People can come here, have fun, and be themselves. I know what I’m getting into. I don’t want you giving that up because you’re with me.”

God, I love this man.

Matt stepped closer. “But there’s one thing I am sure about.”

“What’s that?”

“Whatever everyone else does at a party is their business. I’m not going to be doing anything with anyone else.” His fingers were gentle on Owen’s cheek. “I’ll only have eyes for one man.”

“And that man will only have eyes for you.”

“And anything we decide to do at a party will happen behind our bedroom door.” Matt grinned. “That stays between us.”

Owen smiled. “I can live with that.”

“Good. Because I’m looking forward to surprising you.”