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“Then let’s eat.”
This time, Cole’s smile reached his eyes.
“You choose whatever you enjoy most.”
Spencer blushed but gathered himself quickly. “I like the fruit and cheese platter the most. It has one of the best aged blue cheeses I’ve ever tasted.”
Cole’s eyes were fixed on his mouth. Before Spencer knew it, he was leaning in closer, Cole’s moist lips beckoning him to take what they’d been dancing around all evening.
They paused a breath away from each other, inhaling anticipation, perhaps both waiting on the other to seal the deal. It meant Cole wasn’t a taker. He just waited. He didn’t act as if he was entitled to Spencer.
And fuck did he find that attractive.
A throat clearing nearby severed their connection. Cole’s friend was staring at them, and so were most of his coworkers… and boss.
Damnit. Spencer’s cheeks warmed.
“Well, I think you’re in capable hands, my friend. I’m going to head home now and try to enjoy my last moments of peace in my house before the in-laws swarm in like hornets tomorrow.”
Gerald stood, and Lyndon motioned for the doorman to bring his jacket and overcoat. After his assistant helped him into it, he accepted Gerald’s outstretched hand and told him he was more than welcome for the service and to come back soon.
“I’ll come see you anytime, Lyn.” Gerald smiled, rotating his neck. “Those knots are almost nonexistent now.”
“Gerald, settle the tab with the company credit card, and be sure to sign us up for the platinum membership.” Cole’s gaze met Spencer’s, desire pooling in his hazel-brown eyes. “I have a feeling it won’t be our last time here.”
“All right, then.” Gerald chuckled. “Merry Christmas, you grinch.”
Cole stood and accepted Gerald’s one-armed hug, which turned into a full embrace.
“I know I’ve been a grumpy asshole all month. But the… the holidays without Coleman just feels wrong and…”
“Hey. I get it. I do,” Gerald professed.
Gerald shook Spencer’s hand next.
“See that my friend goes home happy, will ya?”
“Sorry, but it’s not that kind of establishment,” Spencer teased, shooting Cole a sideways glance.
Gerald laughed. “You know what I meant.”
“I do.” Spencer nodded. “It was a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Paddock. I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening, and have a happy holiday.”
Augh. I hate that stupid line. If I wasn’t in customer service, I’d never have to fucking say that.
“Thank you. You as well, Spencer.”
Whatever.
Lyndon followed Gerald toward the lobby to finalize the transaction and to make sure their new platinum customers were signed up properly.
“I’m going to make sure Chef puts everything I want on the platter. I’ll be right back,” Spencer said, though he didn’t move for a long, tension-filled moment.
Cole touched his cheek, his thumb grazing his bottom lip. “Don’t disappear out the back door on me.”
“Not a chance.”
Spencer
