Top Secret

by Sarina Bowen

“You’re great at teasing,” he grumbles. “Get over here already.” “Oh, I’d like to. But I can’t fuck you during a party at your parents’ house.” Anyone could look through the window, or walk in here looking for the john. He sighs. “I suppose not. Want to go swimming? Maybe that will cool the fire in my trunks.” “Sure, LobsterShorts. Take me swimming.” He sits up and smiles at me, and that smile makes me stupid. How did it take me so long to trust this man? “Keaton?” “Yeah?” “I love you. And I’m sorry I couldn’t figure out how to get over my own bullshit before and just be your guy.” He swallows. “Can you be now?” “I want to. If you’ll let me try.” He gets off the bed. “Come here.” He pulls me into a hug. “We have to go swimming now, otherwise I’m going to maul you.” “Okay,” I whisper in his ear. “I love you, too. I know it’s easier for me to get there than it was for you. I don’t blame you for your scars.” “Thank you,” I mumble. I wrap my arms around his wide body and sigh.