Page 124 of Dickathlon

“I’m pretty sure they’re not waiting outside the door for us.”

Knock knock knock.

“You were saying, Declan,” Ty whispered.

“Shit!” I glanced up at Ty, a gigantic goofy grin plastered across his face.

“Told ya so.”

“Fine, fine! I’ll get my trunks on!”

* * *

Ty looked super handsome. He wore a dark green three-piece suit and his hair was tied back, though it looked like a single wisp had escaped. I reached to push it back behind his ear.

“Thanks.”

“You look amazing, by the way. Hold on!” I ducked into our bathroom to grab my little surprise. “Here. I got this for you.” I held out a clear container holding a single white orchid with a sprig of holly. “It’s a boutonniere.”

“I know what it is, and thank you. It’s beautiful.”

‘Let me put it on you.”

Ty smiled and fidgeted with his hair. “I think this is the fanciest I’ve ever dressed. I’m so nervous.”

“Don’t be. My parents adore you.”

“How many people will be here again?”

“It’s not that bad.”

“You’ve done this before. I feel like I’m going to a ball, like Cinderella, except I’m actually, like, the footman or something.”

“Well, if I’m Prince Charming and you’re the footman, I’ll take the footman.”

“So, you’re saying I am the footman?”

“Shut up and kiss me. You know what I mean.”

Ty’s lips pressed against mine briefly. “I’d rather have Hercules than Prince Charming, by the way.”

“I haven’t thrown out the costume, you know.”

“Noted. Let’s make that part of my Christmas present this year, shall we?”

I chuckled. “I can do that.”

It wasn’t my imagination. Everyone had turned to watch Ty and I come down the staircase.

At least the music’s still playing.

At my side, I could feel Ty’s palm getting clammier. I gave it a little squeeze and tried to send some calming thoughts his way.

“Jesus, bro, they’re all staring.”

“You’re imagining it.”

“No, I’m not.”