Dashing All the Way

by Chelsea Curto

How do I tell him the medical tent is one of my favorite memories? How do I tell him that meeting him that day was the best thing that’s happened to me all year?

“You have been the most unexpected surprise, Margo Andrews.”

Maybe because I want her to keep thinking I’m a nice guy. Maybe because I want to give her the whole fucking world and ask for nothing in return.

“Margo,” he croaks. My name cracks on the second syllable, and he stares at me. “Can I have you?”

“Suck, Margo. Get me nice and wet.”

You know how you asked me about the best Christmas gift I’ve ever received?” I reach for him, and he takes my hand in his. “I think I’d like to change my answer to you. You are the best gift, Finn.”

“You don’t even know when my birthday is,” Margo whispers. “No. But I want to learn it. I want to learn everything about you.”

“Watch your fucking mouth when you’re talking to her,” Finn snaps, and I shiver. “We’re not playing that game. It’s not weird. It’s not creepy. We met. She didn’t know who I was. We spent time together, and we like each other. We’re adults. It’s consensual. Keep your comments to yourself, or say them to me. Not her.” Holy angel on top of the Christmas tree. Forget role-playing. That was the hottest thing a man has ever done on my behalf.

“You said someone like me would never be able to finish a run that long. Guess what? I did, and I kicked its ass. It’s where I met your dad, so I guess I should be thanking you for your lack of faith in me. Because of your doubt, I’m happier than you could’ve ever made me. I found a man who believes in me. Who makes me want to keep running because he’s so supportive, no matter how much slower I am than him. Words hurt, Jeremy, and if you tell people what they can’t do, you’re never going to keep anyone around.”

“Fuck the placement. I needed to come over and do that.” He grins and kisses me again. “See you in a few, baby.”