Chokehold

by Leigh Rivers

and I whimper,

“Say it.”

“I’m a good boy.”

I used to love the taste of pussy, but now I have a craving for something else. Someone forbidden. And that someone is currently staring at me with a frown between his brows.

They look happy. I want to kill them both.

“You’re so used to being treated like shit by everyone—your

“Don’t worry, Cole. I could never fall for you. You’re safe.” Lies. Fucking lies.

“What scares you, Cole?”

“Being alone.”

“I fear being alone, so I push people away. Ironic, isn’t it? I’m alone because I don’t let anyone close. I guess…”

“I guess it’s easier to push people away than face rejection. People have a way of hurting you in the end.”

“You need a villain.”

“I fear being the hero.”

Is life always like this? Polar opposites? First, I felt nothing, and now this…tumultuous roar in my head? The pain becomes almost unbearable, and I punch my skull.

Maybe it’s better to hurt than feel nothing at all?

My heart swells as I whisper, “One day, you’ll beg me to kiss these perfect lips, big brother.”

“I don’t think I’ve been in love with anyone,” he replies, shrugging. “Trust me, it’s not all it’s cracked up to be.”

“I think you taste good, but I need more than a teaser.”

“All I could think about was you,” I whisper. “I wished it was you.”

“You’re perfect in every fucking way…and your smile. It lights up the room. I only see you.”

“Keep your eyes on me,”

“Don’t look away.”

“I’m scared of losing you. That maybe…you’ll figure out I’m not good enough.”

“You are good enough, Cole.”

“You make me feel seen,”

“I like the way you look at me.”

I fucking love a good chase.

How do you get someone to talk who doesn’t want to talk?

I have his son in my arms, tears in my fucking eyes, and if he thinks for a second that he’ll take him from me, he’ll be the one in a hospital gown next. Because Blaise is mine, and I’m his.

Rage at the world for not accepting all types of love, no matter age, race, or gender.

love calling him that. My boyfriend. Mine.

“I’m scared to wake up and learn that our happy ending was only a dream.”

For once in my life, I’m where I need to be. I’m home.

“Run, little rabbit. Fucking run! I’m coming for you.”

“Now, be a good boy and open your mouth.”