Theory of Attraction Cleon Lee

Table of Contents

Title Page
Copyright
Note from the Publisher
Dedication
Trademarks Acknowledgement
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
About the Author
Also by Cleon Lee

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Dedication

This book is dedicated to my critique group friends who have been more than supportive in everything. I love you, guys.

Trademarks Acknowledgement

The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction:

iPhone:

Apple, Inc.

Xtube:

Webnovas Technologies,Canada

PowerPoint:

Microsoft Inc

Coors:

MillerCoors LLC

Hoover:

The Hoover Company

Coke:

The Coca Cola Company

Starbucks:

Starbucks Corporation

Godiva:

Yıldız Holding

IBM:

International Business Machines Corporation

Chapter 1

Tap tap tap… tap tap tap….
Ethan looked up from his iPhone at the noise. The only other person in the dean's waiting room was the guy on the couch beside him. The

man was twenty-something, lean, with short blond hair, and was a couple of inches shorter than Ethan. He seemed to be nervous. He fiddled with
the brown briefcase on his lap while bouncing his foot off the floor. He was also cute, and he made Ethan's gaydar blare like a foghorn on a quiet
morning. Realizing Ethan was staring at him, he glanced up. Ethan smiled. The man quickly looked away.

Ethan wondered what had brought him here. Maybe he, like Ethan, was also interviewing for the teaching assistant positions at St Phillips

University, a job many graduate students coveted. A TA at St Phillip's would get a tuition waiver for the PhD program the university offered and a
stipend to cover living expenses, as well as a better chance to make tenure. Getting the job meant Ethan would be one step closer to his dream of
becoming a respected academician in his chosen field. Thinking about it made Ethan giddy with excitement, and yeah, nervous as well.

The guy started tapping his foot again. Ethan checked the time and noticed there was still half an hour before his appointment with the dean.

Ethan looked at the guy. Hm… why not? There was no harm in making small talk while waiting his turn. Ethan put his iPhone in his messenger bag.

"Hi," he said and extended his hand. "I'm Ethan Roberts."
The other man stared at Ethan, looking slightly stunned, but after a few seconds, he accepted the handshake. The man's hand felt nice in his;

it wasn't too soft, but not too rough either.

"Aaron Marcus," he said and quickly released Ethan's hand.
"I'm here for the teaching assistant position. How about you?" Ethan smiled his usual toothpaste commercial smile, guaranteed to make

straight women and gay men weak in the knees, or so people said.

"Me, too." Aaron's voice was stiff and his expression wasn't exactly friendly, but his apparent lack of interest didn't deter Ethan in the

slightest.

"I'm majoring in social medicine. It's not a common field yet but I'm optimistic. What about you?"
"Sociology."
"Sociology's a great subject, Aaron. You don't mind me calling you Aaron, do you?"
Aaron looked at him with an unreadable expression on his face.
"You can call me Ethan," he prompted.
Silence. Although Ethan was disappointed, he tried again, smiling so wide his mouth hurt, but Aaron just looked away. This was the first time

Ethan had gotten the silent treatment on an initial meeting, but Ethan never gave up, so he pressed on.

"Awesome! We could be colleagues. Maybe we can go to bars together, tell jokes, and commiserate about mean advisors and hopeless

students."

"I don't tell jokes," Aaron replied.
"Oh." Ethan wracked his brain for something to say. He wasn't accustomed to being at a loss for words. Was something wrong with his usual

charm today? Aaron was wearing an outdated but crisply ironed brown suit, and his posture was rigid. He looked like a guy who took his studies
seriously. Time to change his approach.

"My dissertation is about health awareness among the LGBTQ population."
Aaron's bright blue eyes started to show interest, and he leaned toward Ethan, as if wanting to hear more. "That's fascinating! My

dissertation is focused on gay adolescents and young adults. I'm planning a qualitative research about bug-chasers …"

Ethan's eyes widened. "Bug-chasers? People who deliberately try to infect themselves with HIV? Wow. Not everyone has the guts to pick

such a challenging topic."

Aaron blushed a little at the compliment. "It's nothing," he said. "I have experience dealing with high-risk and infected teenagers, and it's very

important we learn more about this phenomenon if we want to help them."

"That's awesome!" Ethan said.
"It's, um… well… just something I picked up through my volunteer work."
"Really, I think it's great, and I think your research will be groundbreaking." As a PhD student himself, Ethan understood very well how

challenging writing a dissertation was. He really admired anyone who didn't shy away from difficult topics. There was definitely a lot more to Aaron
than just another cute face.

Aaron's blush deepened, and he fidgeted in his seat. Ethan decided it might be wise to talk about something else.

"I have a question. My advisor suggested I consider additional qualitative studies for my dissertation. I'm reading Patton's

Qualitative

Evaluation and Research Methods.

Do you think it's a good book?" Ethan asked.

Aaron considered Ethan's question for a moment. "Patton is good, but if you want to learn about the qualitative method more extensively,

you will need to find more resources." Aaron's eyes lit up with excitement as he went on to explain more fully about qualitative methods in social
research.

Yup, he was a nerd all right. Ethan had never dated a geek before, and Aaron had piqued his interest. He scooted closer and caught a whiff

of Aaron's scent: the clean, simple smell of shampoo, soap, and detergent. The men Ethan usually slept with smelled of smoke, alcohol, and strong
cologne or aftershave. Ethan fought the urge to sniff Aaron.

He would have been content to spend more time listening to the pros and cons of choosing qualitative over quantitative methods in social

research, but the dean's secretary came out of the dean's office carrying a stack of folders. She put them on her desk opposite the couch and
turned.

"Mr Marcus? The dean is ready to see you," she said.
Aaron looked startled, and then he composed himself though Ethan could still feel nervousness coming off him in waves. Aaron's back was

stiff and his hands shook a little. He grabbed his briefcase, stood up, and entered the dean's office.

Ethan opened his messenger bag and took out his notebook and a pen. He tore a piece of paper out and scribbled his number. Ethan didn't

usually hit on strangers on campus, but for a cute guy like Aaron, he wouldn't mind making an exception.

Aaron came out of the office twenty minutes later and left the waiting room without a glance at Ethan.
"Wait!" Ethan called.
Aaron turned to look at him, a puzzled expression on his face. Ethan slipped his phone number into Aaron's hand.
"Call me," Ethan whispered. "Good luck!" he said, louder this time, and beamed at Aaron, who looked like a deer caught in headlights.

"Mr Roberts?" the secretary called from her desk. "The dean will see you now."
Ethan winked at Aaron, who still stood frozen with the piece of paper in his hand, and then followed the secretary.

* * * *

Ethan didn't see Aaron again for several weeks. The beginning of the semester always kept everyone busy, especially a new TA like him.

He had to facilitate discussions, tutor students, schedule rooms and classes, maintain the course webpage, prepare lesson reviews, quizzes,
assignments, and a hundred million other things.

Not to mention working on his dissertation.
It was six pm on a Friday, and he was still in the library. He had a crick in his neck, his eyes watered from all the reading he'd done, and his

head ached like a bitch. Ethan stared at the book in front of him, and then at the pile of books on the table he still had to get through. Maybe he
should have taken the offer to become a porn star instead of becoming a graduate student; he certainly wasn't lacking in the looks department. It
would have meant getting paid good money to have frequent sex with hot men.

Then he pictured himself fifty years later, old, wrinkled, and trying to explain to his horror-stricken nephews or nieces, or even his children and

grandchildren, why he was being spit-roasted by two (or more) extremely well hung men on the future's equivalent of Xtube. He shuddered. Okay,
maybe becoming a gay porn actor wasn't for him after all.

His stomach rumbled, demanding attention, and he closed the book with a sigh. Screw it! The dissertation could wait until Monday. He

needed to get something to eat, get smashed, and get laid, in that particular order. He'd turned off his laptop and gathered his stuff, ready to leave
the library, when he noticed the cute guy he'd met during the final TA interview sitting a couple of desks away, engrossed in textbooks. What was
his name again? Oh yeah, Aaron. Aaron Marcus.

Everything about the guy screamed 'dorky'. A pair of reading glasses with thick black rims perched on his nose. He wore a slightly faded

shirt, which hung loosely on his slim frame, making him look thinner than he actually was. Even the IBM laptop he used looked old-fashioned enough
to belong to the nineties. Ethan had never thought he would find dorky so endearing.

Aaron blinked a few times, and his long lashes fluttered. He took off his glasses, put them on the table, and rubbed his bleary eyes. He

looked exhausted. There were dark circles under his eyes, though they didn't diminish his attractiveness. That was strange, because Aaron wasn't
the type of guy who usually interested Ethan.

Aaron glanced at his watch, then to the pile of books on the table. He typed a few things, closed his laptop, and put it in his backpack.

Perhaps Aaron was heading home. Time to make a move.

Ethan gathered his stuff quickly, walked up to Aaron's desk, and stood beside him.
"Hi." he said.
Aaron jumped and turned around. "Oh, hi. Sorry, I didn't see you." He looked at Ethan in confusion for a few seconds before recognition

dawned. "We met at the dean's office, didn't we?"

"Yup. For the TA position interview. Glad to see you made it."
"Thanks, you too." Aaron walked over to the librarian's desk. Ethan fell into step beside him.
"So, how's your dissertation going?" Ethan asked.
"Frustrating," Aaron replied. "There isn't enough data to formulate a hypothesis. What about you?" He put the three books on the desk and

waited while the librarian processed them.

"More or less the same. Lack of past research has been my major obstacle. You gotta admit, there wasn't much incentive to study elderly

homosexuals back then," Ethan said. He also put a book on the desk to be checked out. Aaron turned, a surprised look on his face. "Elderly
homosexuals?"

"What?" Ethan smiled. "I don't look someone who hangs a lot with old people?"
Aaron's cheeks pinked a little. "I didn't mean it that way."
"Don't worry. I get that a lot."
Aaron chuckled, and Ethan grinned at him. The librarian handed them their books and they left the library.
"So… wanna grab something to eat? Maybe later we can get some beers… hang out… It's Friday night, after all." Ethan pasted on his most

charming smile.

Aaron seemed surprised by the offer. His eyes widened, and just like when Ethan had given Aaron his number, he looked like a deer caught

in headlights. He averted his eyes. "I-I can't," he stammered.

"Someone special waiting at home? You can bring him along."
"No. I… um… I'd better go," Aaron said, walking quickly away.
"Wait!" Ethan called. "Could we chat again sometime?"
"Uh… okay." Aaron paused to answer before resuming his pace.
Ethan sighed. Twice, Aaron had rejected his advances. Had he lost his charm?

* * * *

The rejection stung, but Ethan decided to go ahead with his plan to drink and cruise the bars, though he felt less enthusiastic than usual.

Fox's Den, Ethan's favorite bar, was packed with the usual weekend crowd, most of them college students. Ethan recognized some of them from
his classes, and he hastily walked out of their line of sight. This was a complication he hadn't thought of when he signed up to be a TA. He would
have to be careful to pick up guys who were not his students.

On his way to the bar, Ethan noticed a couple of men checking him out, which wasn't unusual. Ethan had dark brown hair and eyes, was six

feet tall, and well-proportioned and muscular, courtesy of the many gruesome hours spent carrying veggie boxes for his part-time job in a farmer's
market. There was certainly nothing wrong with his face either. Everything looked symmetrical enough, which, according to a study, was what made
people consider someone attractive. His teeth were perfect, thanks to the damned braces his mother had forced him to wear as a teenager. Ethan
was self-aware enough to know he was vain about his looks.

But he was more than a good-looking guy, wasn't he? Ethan thought of himself as outgoing and a good conversationalist. He'd never had

trouble connecting with people or making friends. So why had Aaron brushed him off? Damn, it made him feel insecure, and Ethan rarely felt
insecure.

He ordered vodka and surveyed the room, looking for someone… anyone. He needed to get laid, dammit. But everyone seemed wrong to

his eyes tonight. Too buff, too cocky, too femme, too flirty, too flamboyant, too skinny.

"Can I get you another?"
Ethan looked up to see Marc, the bartender, watching him.
"Sure. I'll have another shot."
Marc refilled his glass. "You don't look like yourself today." Marc had been one of his first friends when Ethan moved here. Marc was hot; he

had rippling muscles, a killer smile, and beautiful deep blue eyes. Unfortunately, Marc was also taken.

Ethan eyed the platinum band on Marc's ring finger. "How's Ed?"
"He's fine. His construction business is picking up, which means he gets to work earlier, when I'm still sleeping, so sadly, no weekday sex for

us nowadays. We try to make up by screwing like bunnies on weekends though." Marc grinned.

Seeing the joy in Marc's eyes when talking about his partner made Ethan smile. They were so happy together, full of wedded bliss. "Maybe I

should stop this cruising thing and settle down like you two."

Marc chuckled and clapped him on his shoulder. "Maybe. Good luck finding the right man then." He went on to serve other customers, and

Ethan returned to his guy-watching activity.

A blond near the corner of the room caught his eye. He was turning his back on Ethan, but he was lean and wore a faded shirt. Could it

be…?

Ethan got up and walked toward the guy. He was about to tap the man's shoulder when he turned around, squashing Ethan's hope. It wasn't

Aaron. Kicking himself, he wondered what he was thinking. Aaron didn't look like the type who frequented bars. The blond met his gaze and offered
him a sultry smile Ethan knew too well.

Oh, what the hell? Ethan was cranky, tired, and horny. Might as well pick this guy.

* * * *

A hand shook him awake. Ethan groaned and slapped the hand away, burying his head into the pillow.
"Wake up, man! You need to go. Now!"

Fuck!

Why was he so loud? And why did the bed and pillow feel different? They smelled different, too. They stank, as if they hadn't been

washed for weeks. Ethan distinctly remembered he had done the laundry yesterday.

The hand became more forceful, and Ethan lifted his head from the pillow with great reluctance, opening his eyes to see a blond guy

hovering above him with a frantic look on his face.

"My boyfriend is on his way home right now. You need to go, man!"
"Huh? What?"
"My boyfriend is arriving soon. Shit! He told me he'd be in San Francisco until Wednesday!" The guy ran his hands through his tousled hair.
Ethan looked around with bleary eyes. The bedroom was messy, with piles of stuff on the table, chairs, and even on the floor. Clothes were

strewn everywhere, and the room reeked of sex and sweat. The man—what was his name again? Something with a W. Wolly, Wally, Willy Wonka?
Oh yes, Walden—threw a panicked look his way.

Walden shoved Ethan's pants into his hands. "Get dressed. Hurry." Without waiting for an answer, he scrambled around the room, gathering

Ethan's clothes and personal belongings, muttering, "Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. Derrick's going to kill me."

"Serves you right for cheating on him," Ethan mumbled, but loud enough to be heard. Ethan put on his pants and shoes, but didn't button his

shirt.

Walden threw him a dirty look and shoved the rest of his stuff in his hands. Then he grabbed Ethan's arm and dragged Ethan out of the room

and his apartment.

"You need to take the stairs. He's probably coming up now!" Walden slammed the door, almost hitting Ethan's nose.
"Asshole," Ethan muttered, still not fully awake. His head hurt like fuck, and he was nauseous as hell. He considered banging on the door to

ask for water and aspirin but decided against it.

Ethan entered the elevator, ignoring the blond bastard's order to use the stairs. He wished he had declined the offer to go back to Walden's

place. The sex hadn't been good―certainly not earth shattering―and definitely not worth getting thrown out at this goddamned hour.

When he reached the ground floor, Ethan remembered he'd left his car at home last night because he'd planned on having a few drinks.

They'd gone to Walden's apartment by cab.

Fuck!

When he walked out of the elevator, Ethan almost collided with a man in a business suit.
"Watch it!" he said, glaring at Ethan.
Ethan ignored him and walked away.
Maybe the guy was Derrick, maybe he wasn't. Ethan didn't care. He called the cab then leaned against the wall, waiting. He was cold, hung

over, and pissed off, more with himself than with Walden. Finally, after an hour or so, the cab arrived. Ethan opened the door and nearly gagged at
the smell of stale smoke, sweat, alcohol, and traces of vomit. He tried to hold his breath while he was inside, but that didn't last. After a while, he
gave up and curled up on the backseat, feeling miserable as fuck.

This casual sex thing was getting old.
His grandmother had told him before she passed away: stop playing around and settle down. Maybe she was right. Maybe this was the time

to look for something… more. Right now, there was only one man on his mind: Aaron Marcus. And Ethan was willing to try anything to get his
attention.

Chapter 2

Today hadn't been a good day for Aaron at all. It started when he'd woken up late because he'd worked on his dissertation all night. Waking

up late meant he missed breakfast, and most of all, coffee. He brushed his teeth, combed his hair, changed his clothes, and rode his bike to
campus like the wind. He had just locked it up when his iPhone rang. Aaron looked at the caller ID and saw the call was from Professor Hudson,
whose classes he assisted.

"Morning, Professor. How can I help you?" Aaron greeted her, squeezing the phone between his ear and shoulder while he walked briskly to

the sociology building. He had an appointment with Professor Jenkins at nine and it was eight forty five. Professor Jenkins would flay his ass if he
was late to a consultation.

"I need you to substitute for me for the eleven o'clock class. Brenda just got into an accident. I think she broke her leg. I'm taking her to the

hospital now." Her voice sounded panicky. Aaron heard a girl crying and a man cooing at her in the background.

"Sorry to hear that, Professor."
"Yes, thanks. Anyway, the PowerPoint is still on my laptop, and I don't have time to e-mail it to you. You have the syllabus right? So just play it

by the ear."

Fuck. He needed to prepare for the lesson and create the presentation fast or else he'd end up babbling for two hours like an idiot in front of

the class.

"Okay, sure, Professor," Aaron said, but Professor Hudson had already disconnected. Aaron winced. He had never taught such a large

class before; over a hundred students. He had a long day ahead of him.

Aaron stood in front of the class, palms damp with sweat, and swallowed a couple of times. His stomach started to churn with anxiety. He

hated public speaking. How on earth had he thought he'd make it as a full-fledged professor one day? He should have taken his ulcer meds before
beginning class, especially after the disastrous consultation with Professor Jenkins, his dissertation advisor. Too late now. The students had
already taken their seats and were staring at him in confusion.

Aaron cleared his throat. "Morning. Um… Professor Hudson had a family emergency and was unable to be here. I will substitute for her

today." He looked around. The studious ones were focusing on him and taking out their notebooks. The jocks immediately folded their hands
behind their heads and slouched in their seats. One of them had already closed his eyes. Some of the girls started to rummage through their bags
and shifted their gazes between what was inside and him. Texting, no doubt. Aaron was amazed at what was visible when one was standing in front
of a class. They rarely did such things with Professor Hudson. Aaron was a bit hurt, but such behavior wasn't unusual in college. Perhaps it was
better they didn't pay attention to him, he rationalized, which meant they wouldn't know if he fucked up. Aaron took several deep calming breaths as
his therapist had once taught him.

Okay, he was ready. He could do this.
"As scheduled, we will discuss the term 'self-fulfilling prophecy' today. The term was coined by Robert K. Merton…"
Teaching became easier as time went on. Aaron felt more confident, or at least his anxiety wasn't bothering him anymore. He ignored

students who were asleep or didn't pay attention and focused on answering questions from those who were listening. He stuttered a bit when a
student argued theory with him and sighed in relief when she backed off. Had he been this annoying as a student?

"Okay, that's it for today. Don't forget the due date for the group paper is next week." There was a collective groan of dismay and mumbled

curse words. Aaron ignored them; he was too relieved and ecstatic that class had gone relatively well.

He was shutting down his laptop and gathering papers on the table as the students slowly left when a man entered, carrying a large bouquet

of red and yellow exotic flowers bound with a yellow satin ribbon. Aaron stared at him—Ethan, his name was Ethan—as he smiled and handed him
the bouquet.

"Hi, Aaron," he said, thrusting the bouquet forward. "This is for you."
From the corner of his eyes, Aaron saw the remaining students staring at them with interest.
"Huh?" Aaron couldn't come up with a more intelligent thing to say. His mind worked at super speed, trying to find a logical reason why Ethan

had suddenly appeared in front of him, bearing flowers.

"For you," Ethan repeated.
Aaron made no move to take the bouquet. Ethan looked like he didn't know what to do. He smiled a little sheepishly and put the flowers on

the table. He pulled a red heart-shaped card from his pocket, placing it on top of the flowers.

Several students started to giggle, hiding their mouths behind their hands or bags. Two of the girls made googly eyes at him. He wouldn't

have been surprised if they'd suddenly come to him, pinched his cheeks, and cooed something like, "Aww… so cute."

Aaron's face felt hot; he must be red as a tomato by now. If only the ground would open up and swallow him whole!
Aaron grabbed the bouquet, ready to return the ridiculous thing to Ethan, but when he looked up, Ethan had made a dash out the door.
"Wait!" Aaron shouted, but Ethan had disappeared.

Aaron turned back to the flowers and card. Out of the curiosity, he picked it up and flipped it open.

Please go out with me. Love, Ethan

Roberts

. What was he, sixteen? Aaron slipped it into his pocket, fully intending to throw it into the nearest trashcan.

He looked at the flowers. They were expensive, consisting of tulips, birds of paradise, and various exotic looking flowers Aaron couldn't

identify. He had to admit the bouquet was tasteful and not at all girly, like most bouquets usually were. He cringed, thinking how much it had cost.
Throwing the bouquet away would be such a waste.

With a resigned sigh, Aaron carried the flowers to his office. Unfortunately, the distance from the classroom to the cupboard-sized space he

shared with John, his fellow TA, was long. Everyone on the way stared at him. Aaron was surprised he didn't pass out from all the blood
concentrating in his face.

He entered the small office and slammed the door.
John's eyebrows almost touched his hairline. "For you?"
Aaron nodded.
"Who sent them?"
"Ethan Roberts, a TA from social medicine. He came to my class to give this to me." Aaron put the flowers on the table, wondering where to

get a vase tall enough to contain them.

"There are only two men working as TAs in social medicine, right? The big hippie and a very cute guy. Which one is he?"

"Not the big guy. The… other one."
"Ah… I see." John smirked.
Aaron rolled his eyes.
"So… what did he want?" John asked again.
When had his officemate turned into such a busybody? Aaron glared at him. Okay, he wasn't being fair. He would be curious too, if John was

the one who'd gotten flowers from another guy.

Aaron fished the heart-shaped card from his pocket and handed it to him. John read it, lips quirking upward though he quickly schooled his

expression. "Wow, this is so… romantic. Maybe you should say yes."

"No way! I'm not a girl and he humiliated me in front of several students!"

"I'm sure he didn't mean to embarrass you. What

wouldn't give to be wooed by such a handsome man." John sighed and looked at the

bouquet, a wistful expression on his face.

John could be such a girl sometimes. Aaron thought it was endearing, but… "I thought you already had someone. What's his name? Tony?"
"Yeah, but I don't think Tony is a flower kind of guy. More like whips and leather. Or gag balls." John cackled.

Aaron winced at the mental image. There were a lot of things he didn't want to know about his friends. Before he could respond, his phone

beeped. It was a message from Syd, his ex:

Found 2 of ur fucking books in the closet. Get them tomorrow by 8pm or I'll throw them out.

Great. Syd lived two hours away by bus.
Nope, not a good day at all.

* * * *

"I swear I didn't do it! I just wanna buy some candy, man. You know I ain't a thief. Tell him!" Keith, the fourteen-year old boy Aaron was

sponsoring, pointed at a police officer standing nearby, hands folded, a stern expression on her face. Some of the boys living in St Phillips' LGBTQ
Youth Center, a place that also offered temporary housing for young people in need, came out to get a closer look at the scene unfolding outside
the building.

The policewoman—bless her—looked at the boys, and with an authoritative voice said, "Run along. Nothing to see here."
They reluctantly broke their gaze and went inside. Aaron took a deep breath and counted to ten, one of the things he'd found really helped

when he was anxious or stressed about his volunteer work, especially working with young people. He really didn't understand why he was good with
teens while he was awkward in most social situations. Perhaps at some level, he could relate to them, even when those kids sometimes frustrated
him, like now.

"Tell me again what happened please, and this time no lies," Aaron said. In the few weeks Aaron had known him, Keith had been a nice boy

and they got along fine. Aaron had never thought Keith would get in trouble with law enforcement.

Keith was ready to shout the denial again, but Aaron stared him down. The boy dropped his eyes, fidgeting. "I took condoms from the shelf

near the cashier when she wasn't looking," Keith mumbled, his face beet red.

"What?" Aaron had heard him fine, but he couldn't believe it.
Keith repeated what he'd said, head still down. He shoved both hands deep into his jeans pockets.
Aaron asked the police officer. "Is that true, ma'am?"
"Unfortunately, it's quite true, sir. Since this is his first offense and he's so young, the shop owner decided not to press charges as long as

this young man promises never to steal again."

Aaron sighed in relief and looked back at Keith. "You hear that, Keith? You're very lucky, you know."
"Yes, Aaron," he said, sounding more sincere this time.
"You need to apologize." Aaron hoped he sounded stern enough.
Keith slowly looked at the policewoman and said, "Sorry, ma'am. I promise I'll never steal again."
The woman nodded. "Stay out of trouble, son. I can see you're a sweet kid. I don't want you to ruin your life over a stupid mistake. You hear

me?"

"Yes, ma'am." Keith bowed his head.
"Now, where're the goods you took?"
Keith flushed again. He removed five packets of condoms from his pockets and handed them over.
She pocketed the condoms and turned to Aaron. "Take care of the boy, sir," she told Aaron.
"Will do, ma'am.," Aaron replied. She nodded and walked back to her car, and Aaron turned to Keith, shaking his head. They sat on the

bench, Keith still avoiding his gaze.

"What on earth possessed you to steal condoms?"
Keith mumbled something that Aaron didn't quite catch. "Sorry?"
"I said I want to have sex, okay?" he said, louder. "Every boy and some girls here have already had sex. I don't want to be the only virgin

around here."

"Keith, you're fourteen. Way too young to have sex. You still have a lot of time to explore. Besides, shouldn't you date first? Go out to the

movies or for pizzas? Have you even had your first kiss?"

"Not yet, but you know. The other guys are always bragging about their experience. I just don't want to look uncool."
Of course, Keith wanted to be cool. Every teenage boy did. Aaron wished he knew what to say, but he'd been the opposite of cool when he

was Keith's age. He'd been the resident nerd, someone bullied by jocks and teased by cheerleaders. Someone like Ethan Roberts would be the
perfect guy to talk about coolness with Keith. Aaron bet he'd been the most popular boy at school; maybe Ethan had even gotten away with being
gay and still been the cool guy.

"Well… the thing is… Keith…." Aaron wracked his brain, searching for something to say that didn't sound horribly clichéd or hypocritical. "Sex

is not about being cool. Sex is about connecting to someone you love," Aaron finally said. "You shouldn't rush it. I was in my last year of college
before I met my first boyfriend." Syd had definitely

not

been the right guy, but Aaron didn't think Keith needed to know that.

Keith mulled over this for a while. "So you met your boyfriend, the first guy you had sex with, at college?"
Aaron grimaced at the choice of words, but didn't correct him. "Yeah."
"So where's he now? Are you still together?"
Aaron swallowed. "We split up a few months ago."

Keith frowned. "Why'd you split up?" Keith was a smart and inquisitive boy, which was good, but there were some things Aaron didn't feel

like sharing.

"People change," Aaron said. What else was there to say?
They sat for a while, just talking. Keith was a sweet boy, even after what had happened to him. How parents could kick a fourteen-year-old

kid to the street because he came out about his sexuality was beyond him. Aaron's parents were certainly far from perfect, but as much as they
disliked his sexual preference, they wouldn't have left him on the street to rot. Aaron hoped Keith would find another home soon, a family that could
accept him for who he was.

"Aaron?"
The familiar voice made Aaron turn his head so fast, he wouldn't have been surprised if he'd gotten whiplash.

Ethan―the annoying, cocky,

hot

Ethan Roberts―stood in front of him with a big grin on his face and a heart-shaped Godiva box in his hands.

Aaron went rigid.

"What are you doing here?" he asked. His voice sounded harsh, even to his ears. From the corner of his eye, he saw Keith looking at Ethan

with wide eyes.

"John told me you were here."
Aaron would kill John, slowly and painfully.
"So, did you like the flowers?" Ethan wore a plain blue T-shirt, which outlined his muscles, and faded jeans. Nothing special about his

clothes―they were straight off the rack―but they fit him so well, they might have been tailored for him.

"I did," Aaron replied.
Ethan clearly expected more of an answer, but Aaron didn't add anything. "So? What's your answer?" he finally asked.
"Answer? Answer to what?"
Ethan grinned. "Do you want to go out with me?"
"No! Why would I go out with you?"
Aaron's answer threw Ethan off guard. His grin faltered.
"Well, um… call me if you change your mind, okay?" He shoved the box at Aaron, who caught it in reflex. "Here. Hope you like it." Ethan

walked away before Aaron could return the package.

Aaron froze, staring at Ethan's retreating back. He should return it. He really should, but why couldn't he move his feet?
The sound of Keith clearing his throat snapped him back to reality. Keith was swallowing a smile. Aaron handed the box to Keith.
Keith grabbed the box with the enthusiasm typical of a fourteen-year-old boy. "Whoa, this is expensive stuff, man," he said, examining the

box from all angles, clearly in awe of the neat packaging. "There's a card."

Before Aaron could take it from him, Keith had opened it—thankfully it was small, generic, and square, not as tacky as the previous one—

and read, "Call me. There's this squiggly phone and a phone number." Keith handed it to Aaron.

Aaron eyed the card as if it would jump up and bite him at any second, but he pocketed it nonetheless. Keith opened the box and ate a

piece of chocolate truffle coated in cocoa powder. "Want some?" He offered the box to Aaron.

The aroma was heady but Aaron shook his head. "I'm lactose intolerant. Chocolates can make me sick."
"That sucks." The boy popped another piece into his mouth.
"Yeah." Aaron forced himself to look away, although he was tempted to sample one. At least Keith liked them, so the candies weren't a total

waste.

"So, who's the guy? Is he your ex?" Keith asked again.
"No. Just someone I met on campus. He gave me flowers a few days ago. It's weird."
"He's cute."
"He's not," Aaron replied.
Keith threw a baleful glance at him, still munching.
Aaron sighed and conceded defeat. "Okay… most people would find him aesthetically attractive, yes."
"You mean, like, drop-dead gorgeous?"
"Well… yeah."
Keith nodded, satisfied, and picked a shell-shaped dark chocolate from the box. The smell made Aaron's mouth water. Would one small

piece make him sick? He knew he shouldn't, but the temptation was getting harder to resist.

"Do you like him?"
Aaron turned his head to look at Keith. "No!"
Keith smirked.

"I do

not

like him."

Keith bit his lower lip. "Whatever you say, man."
"He's annoying and arrogant and way too friendly. He's really not my type." Even to his ears, it sounded false.
"Okay." Keith didn't try to hide his amusement.
Aaron gave up. "Save some for the other boys." He pointed to the half-empty box.
Keith put two more pieces into his mouth and closed it.
"Dude! That's the best thing I've ever eaten! I think you should date this guy, Aaron. Then he'll give you more chocolate, and you can give it to

me." Keith grinned.

Aaron didn't deign to answer.
"Wait! I think I still got one." Keith buried his hand deep into his pocket and took a condom packet from his jeans. Ignoring Aaron's glare, he

handed it to him with a solemn expression. "Here. I think you're probably going to need this more than I will."

Aaron groaned. One of these days, he was going to kill Ethan for sure.

Chapter 3

As soon as Ethan entered the bathroom, someone grabbed him and pushed him against the wall. The guy knelt in front of Ethan and was

about to open Ethan's fly when Ethan stopped him. "Wait, wait, wait!" He looked down and recognized James, a man who had blown him a couple
of times before. Too bad Ethan wasn't in the mood for a quick blow job in a bar bathroom.

James looked up. "What?"
"Sorry, man, I can't." Ethan plastered on an apologetic smile.
"You can't?" James asked, annoyance clear in his voice. "What do you mean, you can't?" Ethan thought maybe it was because no one in

this part of the world ever brushed him off when he offered his legendary service. "What the fuck, man? Are you, like, impotent or something?"

Ethan continued smiling. "Sorry. Maybe next time?"
"Whatever." James walked out of the bathroom, pushing the door harder than necessary. Before Ethan could catch it with his hand, it swung

back and smacked him on the nose. Fuck! If he ever allowed James to blow him again, he was going to eat a lot of red meat first. With garlic. After
drinking a gallon of beer. Ethan hoped the meat and beer would make his come taste so awful, the bastard would choke on it.

He looked in the mirror. His nose was a bit sore, but it wasn't broken. He left the bathroom and returned to his seat at the bar. Herbert,

Ethan's drinking buddy and a fellow graduate student, was already on his second bottle of Coors. Ethan's bottle was still untouched. He threw
himself on the stool and took a hefty swig of the cold beer.

"Ah… now I feel much better!" Ethan said.
"What's up? You look kinda depressed or something."
Ethan put down the bottle. "James accosted me in the bathroom."

"James? You mean James the Hoover?"

Ethan sniggered.
"If he just blew you in the bathroom… Oh, wow, that was fast. He's that good? Or do you have a stamina problem?" Herbert smirked.
Ethan glared at him. "I brushed him off."
"Why?" Herbert seemed perplexed.
Ethan frowned. Why did people make such a big deal out of it, as if Ethan had refused God's gift to the gay population or something?
"No reason."
"Oh my God, you have an STD, don't you?" Herbert had a loud, gruff voice. Hearing his words, men turned to stare at him with shock and

disgust. A couple of guys quickly gave them a wide berth.

"Shh…" Ethan hissed. "What's wrong with you?"
Herbert had the grace to look apologetic. "Sorry," he mumbled.
"No, I don't have an STD," Ethan said, deliberately raising his voice. He looked around and glared at the men staring at him.
"Okay… Okay… sheesh. You're sensitive today."
"You're ruining my chances of getting laid in this bar ever again!"
Herbert smirked. "If you're so concerned about it, why did you refuse James? Hell, what I wouldn't give to get a blow job from him, but I don't

think he goes for the bearded burly type." Herbert was the campus's resident hippie, complete with floral shirts, long braided beard, and various
tattoos covering his body. Herbert always saw himself as an acquired taste. Ethan tended to agree, more because of his friend's sometimes
boorish attitude than his looks.

Ethan rolled his eyes. "He's not as good as most people think, and he's an ass."
Herbert snorted.
"Okay, okay, maybe he has a real talent. I mean, if there's a competition for cock sucking, no doubt he'll win. Still…Well, it's just… you

know… I think it's time for something more than one-night stands and blow jobs in the bathroom."

Herbert raised his eyebrows. "So you're thinking of settling down, having a relationship, and all that crap?"
Ethan winced. Only Herbert could say "settling down" and "relationship" like other people said "dog shit". Talking to Herbert had been a bad

idea. He was a bad role model for bisexual men everywhere. His favorite pastime was sleeping around, and never with the same person more than
once. He loathed relationships, saying a commitment would cramp his style and kill his sex life. Ethan suspected there was something more
beyond the superficial answer, but he never pressed. Some people just didn't like being analyzed.

"Never mind," Ethan said.
"Oh, no, you don't. You don't back off after saying shit like that. Come on, dude. Tell me. You have someone in mind?"
Ethan finished the rest of his beer in one long gulp, put the bottle down, and ordered another one. "Kinda."
"C'mon, just spill already. Who's the lucky guy who has captured the heart of St Phillips University's resident gay Don Juan?"
Ethan flipped Herbert the finger. His second beer came and Ethan drank half of it before finding the courage to answer. "Aaron Marcus."
Herbert looked bewildered. "Who?"
"Aaron Marcus, a TA in the sociology department. A bit shorter than me. Lean. Blond."
"You mean the skinny nerdy guy?"
Ethan glared at Herbert. "He's not skinny. He's slender. And yeah, he looks kinda nerdy, but in a cute way."
Herbert drew his eyebrows together. "I don't see what's so special about him. I mean, look at you. Girls and guys practically throw

themselves at you and some of the straight guys too, according to the rumors. Why would you settle for someone like him?"

"Hey! What do you mean, someone like him?"
Herbert raised his arms in a placating manner. "Easy, easy, no need to get your boxers in a twist. He's just not my type. And I didn't think he

was yours either."

"How can you tell what my type is? I don't kiss and tell, unlike a certain friend I have."
Herbert grinned. "I'm just being out and proud."
"The general population calls it being a pervert."
Herbert laughed, a booming sound which caused many heads to swivel in their direction. More than a few pairs of eyes shifted to Ethan,

leering at him. Ethan returned their gaze, but his heart wasn't in it. He hadn't wanted to have sex with anyone since the Walden incident. Wait, that
wasn't completely true, because he badly wanted to sleep with Aaron. But sex wasn't all he wanted, and Ethan didn't know what to do to make
Aaron see he wasn't joking around.

During his undergraduate years, he'd been too busy studying and working his ass off to pay for tuition and lodging to have time for a

relationship. As a TA, he could finally relax a little. The stipend he got was generous compared to that paid at other universities. Moreover, his
grandmother had just passed away and left him as the sole beneficiary of her will, which included a house and an old car. Ethan could still
remember how supportive Granny had been when he first came out to her.

She'd hugged him and said, "Thanks for telling me. You know it doesn't change a thing, right? I still expect to meet your boyfriend, you hear

me?" She'd remained his staunch supporter until she passed away two years ago. Ethan's parents were supportive, but they still asked him to
pretend to be straight to their religious extended families; they were all about keeping up appearances. Granny was, perhaps, the only genuine
person in their family. And he hadn't had a chance to bring any man he dated to meet her. He hoped he hadn't disappointed her. Thinking about her
still made Ethan misty-eyed. He brushed his eyes with the back of his hand.

"Thinking of Aaron makes you cry? That bad, huh?" Herbert watched him with concern and pity in his eyes.
"No, asshole. I'm thinking about my grandma."
"Oh. Sorry." Herbert might act like an ass sometimes, and his over-the-top attitude had landed them in more embarrassing situations than

Ethan cared to count, but he really was a good friend. Ethan clapped Herbert's shoulder to show there were no hard feelings.

"So, what are you gonna do about him?"
"Huh?"
"Aaron. You wanna get into his pants, right?"
"A relationship, Herbert. Not just get into his pants. I want to have a relationship with him. If he ever gives me a chance."
"Have you asked him out?"
"A few times. He brushed me off."
"Does he have a boyfriend?"
"I checked his Facebook relationship status and I also asked John, a TA who shares an office with him. He told me Aaron left his boyfriend

about a year ago and hasn't been with anyone since."

"Maybe you aren't his type?"
Ethan sighed and took a hefty gulp of beer. "Hell if I know."
Herbert frowned, as was his habit when he was thinking hard. "Did you do something to turn him off?
Ethan finished his second beer. "I have no idea. I did the same thing you did when you wanted to get into that girl's pants. I sent him flowers

and chocolate."

Herbert's mouth quirked upward. "Flowers? Chocolate? You do realize he's a guy, don't you? Or does he hide something underneath his

pants I'm not aware of?"

Ass.

Ethan scowled. "How am I supposed to show him I'm serious?"

Herbert chuckled. "You're asking me? I've never 'wooed a guy before'," he said, making quotation marks in the air with his hands. "When it

comes to guys, all I need to do is ask, 'Hey, wanna fuck?' If he does, we get on with it. If he doesn't, I move on to another guy. I mean, isn't that the
point of having sex with men? So you don't have to worry about wooing, dating, and all that bullshit?"

Ethan threw a baleful gaze to his friend "You're generalizing, Herb. As an academician, you should know better."
"I know better than to send flowers and chocolate to ask a guy out on a date." Herbert smirked.

"It was a very

manly

bouquet! Not some pink or red roses. And the chocolate was Godiva! Who can resist Godiva?"

Herbert laughed again, but Ethan decided to let it slide. His friend did have a point, after all.

* * * *

The next morning, Ethan didn't have time to think about Aaron because he and Herbert stood in front of Professor Yates, their dissertation

advisor. Professor Yates was having one of his infamous fits, the second time this month, in fact. He was a leading academician in his field, but he
was also temperamental, to say the least.

"This is the third grant rejection in a week. What are we? Authors looking for agents?" he ranted, his hands in the air in frustration, spittle

flying around. "Those retarded people! How can they expect us to expand our field of knowledge if they won't give a penny for important research
like ours?"

"We can't argue that most condom companies think research concerning the effectiveness of campaigns targeting adolescents is more

beneficial to them than STD awareness among LGBTQ geriatrics," Herbert muttered.

Ethan winced.

Idiot

! Herbert wouldn't know tact if it fucked him up the ass.

Professor Yates glared. "So you agree with them that researching sex-crazed teenagers is more important than improving the quality of life

for elderly homosexuals? You think old people don't need to have sex to have a healthy, fulfilling life?"

Time for some damage control. "I'm sure Herbert didn't mean it that way, Professor." Ethan tried to soothe the irate man. Inside, he had a

strong, almost uncontrollable urge to strangle his best friend.

Professor Yates huffed and sank back into his seat. "I don't care whether he means it or not. What I know is that I'm getting sick of this

society's attitude toward old people. No respect! None whatsoever! Perhaps I'd better move to China where they show proper respect for their
elders. I can't imagine it'll be very hard to get funding there. I hear their government is hiring Western academicians."

Ethan and Herbert looked at each other in horror. Professor Yates could

not

be serious, could he? But what if he was? There were rumors of

him becoming slightly unhinged since his partner left him for a younger man a few months ago. If Professor Yates was serious about moving to
China, it would be bad news for their dissertations. Finding a new advisor at this stage was unthinkable.

"Er… Um … I'm sure there are organizations that can see the merit of your project, Professor." Herbert tried to smile, but it came out a

grimace instead.

"If they're out there, I can't find them."
Ethan swallowed, his mind racing. "Maybe we can help. Tomorrow there's going to be a charity ball to raise funds for a new building for the

St Phillips's LGBTQ Center. As faculty members, I believe we can secure an invitation or two. Maybe we can talk to possible benefactors or meet
decision makers, see if any of them are interested to fund our research."

Professor Yates glowered at him. "I hate balls, charity or otherwise."
There was a sound of choked laughter from the man beside him. Ethan elbowed Herbert hard. "Don't worry about the ball. We'll take care of

everything. I promise we're going to find a grant for our project." It was highly unusual for a TA or grad student to look for research funding, but

whatever. He'd do anything to save their hides.

* * * *

Unlike the numerous charity dinners his mother had made him attend, Ethan enjoyed himself quite a bit at the ball. He chatted with

academicians and activists about social and political issues. The ball got even better when he spotted Aaron, looking uncomfortable and out of
place, talking to a well-dressed, middle-aged man. Aaron kept shuffling his feet and playing with his bowtie.

"You're supposed to be chatting up benefactors for grants," Herbert hissed at him.
"Relax, the night is still young."
Ethan took a canapé from the buffet and ate it. The food and wine were excellent and the people he met even more so. Perhaps he needed

to attend more charity balls.

He took another glass of wine from a waiter and returned to observing Aaron. Aaron wore a tux that was a little too big for him and a black

bowtie, which was slightly askew because he kept tugging it. God, he was so cute. Ethan had to fight the urge to go to him and kiss him silly.

Herbert said, "See that guy over there? The old man Aaron is talking with? His name's Richmond. He always rambles on and on and on. I

don't think he'll stop talking until midnight at least. Worse, by the next day, he'll completely forget what he talked about the night before. Chatting him
up is a major waste of time."

Ethan smirked. "I guess I have to come to his rescue then." And it was such a perfect excuse to chat up Aaron.
"Hey, what about us? You're supposed to be finding grants, not rescuing a princess."
"That's uncalled for, Herbert."
"Whoops, Prince Charming is angry." Herbert grinned. He could be such an asshole at times.
"You just insulted Aaron." Ethan's voice was sharp.
"Okay, I'm sorry," Herbert raised his hands.
Well, good for him. Ethan ignored him and approached Aaron and Richmond.

When Aaron decided to become an academician, he had not envisioned he would need marketing advice from his old man, who'd been a

door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesman. His father had told him everything in the world revolved around marketing, but Aaron hadn't believed him.
He'd thought he only needed to do what he did best, which was research, studying, and mentoring in order to survive as an academician and
activist. Aaron wished he had listened to his dad.

"I can't imagine what possessed those old fools to come up with this idea! It's outrageous, don't you think?"
Aaron forced what he hoped was a sympathetic smile. "Yes, Mr Richmond. I can't imagine a more outrageous idea." And he couldn't. Not

when he had no clue what they'd been talking about.

Aaron hated charity balls, or any social gathering for that matter. However, Professor Hudson and he had an important project underway,

concerning sex education for adolescent teens, a project that needed funding. Therefore, chatting up benefactors such as Thomas Richmond was a
necessary evil.

Mr Richmond went on at length and Aaron's mind automatically tuned out most of what he said. His bowtie was too tight, the tux was starting to

chafe, and his new shoes hurt terribly. Thank God he didn't have to dance! Aaron glanced at his watch. Richmond had talked non-stop for the last
thirty-three minutes. He had tried to listen, he

had

, but his brain could only process so much rambling, ranging from politics to the economy, and the

general incompetence of the younger generation. Richmond had not given him a chance to talk. The man seemed to be more interested in hearing
his own voice.

Across the room, Professor Hudson threw him a commiserating smile. She was doing her share in pitching their proposal to Henry

Beaumont, a board member of another organization. However, the man seemed to be more interested in flirting with the beautiful professor instead
of listening to her. It wasn't their night, for sure. Well, at least he wasn't alone in his misery.

"So, what do you think? Do we have a chance of making them reverse their decision?"
Aaron's attention snapped back to Richmond.
"I'm sorry?"
"Do you think we can convince them to change their minds?"
"Um… maybe. Yes, of course, we can." Aaron was bad at small talk. He didn't know how to pretend to listen, to nod at the right time, or

make noncommittal noises. Richmond studied him from behind his thick glasses, as if assessing his honesty. Aaron smiled and drank wine to
cover his nervousness. Perhaps this was the right time to make his move.

"Sir, there is something I want to discuss, if you have the time. Professor Hudson and I are in the middle of a project about… "
"Mr Richmond!" someone interrupted.
Aaron turned and found himself face to face with a smiling Ethan Roberts.
"Mr Richmond, so glad to meet you tonight. I've heard so much about you and your organization. I'm Ethan Roberts. I'm here on behalf of

Professor Yates. You know him, don't you?"

Richmond's eyes lit up with recognition. "Ah yes, David Yates. How is he?"
"He's healthy, sir, and still energetic, as usual."
Ethan only needed five minutes to completely dominate the conversation. They laughed and chatted like long lost friends while Aaron stood

beside them, feeling awkward and ignored. His irritation with Ethan Roberts went up a notch or two. Aaron knew he was probably being unfair to
Ethan. It wasn't his fault he could effortlessly build relationships with everyone, or that he was so good-looking and charming.

"I agree, Mr Richmond. It's outrageous they want to include introversion for diagnostic purposes in the diagnostic manual for psychiatrists,

DSM V. Indeed, half of us would end up in loony bins, wouldn't we?"

Now both of them were laughing. Aaron should laugh too, for propriety's sake, but he was too annoyed to do so.

Introvert, my ass

, he thought

uncharitably.

If Ethan Roberts is an introvert then I'm a catatonic schizophrenic.

Aaron really wanted to leave, but he badly needed to attract

Richmond's interest.

"Sir…" he tried again. "Professor Hudson and I are wondering if you would like to see our proposal?"
But Richmond paid no attention to him. He was engrossed in something Ethan was saying about how sexual experience could only get

better with age. How did they get from personality to sex anyway?

"This is why some of us are planning to research alternative sexual practices among homosexual geriatrics, Mr Richmond. I'm sure the

results will be interesting, don't you think?" Ethan was beaming widely, as if Richmond had already agreed to fund his outrageous project.

Ethan looked more like a Hollywood actor than a grad student. He filled out his tailored tux perfectly. With his long lashes, warm blue eyes,

and appealing smile, it was no wonder he could smooth-talk anyone into funding anything. He also had long legs which would feel perfect wrapped
around Aaron's waist as Aaron pounded his annoying suitor into the mattress.

Okay, why had he suddenly had dirty thoughts about Ethan?
Upon hearing laughter, Aaron's attention snapped back to the conversation, only to find Ethan and Richmond looking at him with

amusement. He had been woolgathering again.

"One day everyone will benefit from your research, like Mr Marcus here," Richmond said, eyes dancing with mirth. Ethan was smiling at him,

a toothy, thousand-watt smile, showcasing his perfect white teeth. Then Ethan winked at Aaron.

Aaron's cheeks heated up in embarrassment and anger. He'd had enough. Ethan had stolen Richmond's attention by derailing their

conversation, and now he was making fun of him. If Aaron had been another kind of guy, he would have punched him in the face.

Aaron mumbled an excuse and left the ball as fast as he could, ignoring Ethan who asked him to wait.

"That went well," John said.
"Shut up." Ethan massaged his temples. He'd fucked up. There'd been no mistaking Aaron's annoyed expression.
"Instead of trying to impress him with grand gestures, why not try to, you know, find out what he really needs?" Ethan turned, intending to give

the busybody a piece of his mind. John had an amused expression on his face. Despite his relaxed demeanor, there was a hint of steel in his
voice.

"And how do I do that? He doesn't want to talk to me, much less go out with me."
"Why would he want to do that? He feels humiliated. He thought you were making fun of him. That's why he ran off."
Ethan grimaced and shuffled his feet. "I never intended to embarrass him."
"Aaron has issues. He's a great guy, but he's been hurt. A lot. By his peers and by people who claimed to love him. I won't break confidence

by telling you more, but if you're not serious about him, find another guy."

Ethan looked John in the eye. "I

serious about him. I can't promise we'll be compatible, but I'd at least like a chance to try. And I

will

work

hard not to hurt him. I don't like hurting anybody, intentionally or not."

John cocked his head, observing Ethan for a moment. Then he nodded, seemingly satisfied with what he had seen. He took out a piece of

paper and scribbled an address. "Aaron sometimes goes to this bar on Friday nights."

"Thanks, man." Ethan slapped John's back a couple of times, causing the slender man to stagger forward. John caught himself and

straightened, looking Ethan in the eye.

"Aaron is good guy and he's my friend. If you ever hurt him, I'll kick your ass."
His tone was serious, but Ethan smothered a laugh. The sentence sounded so wrong coming from this man who was shorter than him by

several inches and lighter by around twenty pounds.

"Oh, I'm not the one who will spank your ass black and blue," John smirked. "

He's

the one who's gonna make sure you feel every smack on

your butt for a month at least." He pointed to a large, muscular guy with a thick moustache and tiny scars on his face. With his white tux and sharp
eyes, the man looked like a mobster from the movies. Ethan shivered a little. "He's my Daddy," John said, pride and affection evident in his voice.
Ethan frowned. The guy was only forty or so, he couldn't possibly be John's biological father… Oh. Oh!

That

kind of daddy.

Ethan flushed and nodded. "No hurting Aaron or your mafia Daddy will spank me. Got it."

Chapter 4

For the next three weeks, there were no flowers or gifts from Ethan. Aaron had mixed feelings about Ethan and couldn't stop wondering

about him. Why had Ethan sent the gifts? Why had he stopped? Did he think Aaron was uninterested and had moved on? Or were the previous
gifts jokes? Aaron didn't think a TA like Ethan would spend so much money on practical jokes.

"Do you think he's changed his mind?"
John looked up from the test he was grading. "Who?"
"Ethan. He stopped contacting me."
John raised his eyebrow. "How the hell should I know? Ask him yourself. I've got his phone number if you want it."
The pen Aaron was holding fell to the floor with a clatter. "What?" Aaron looked at John with disbelief.
"Call him. See what he wants."
"How the hell did you get his number?"
"I have my ways."
Aaron narrowed his eyes suspiciously. But John's expression gave nothing away and he didn't look at Aaron. John scribbled on a student's

paper, put it in a stack, and reached for another. The man was infuriating sometimes.

Aaron sighed and returned to grading his stack of quizzes. After giving Fs to three consecutive students, Aaron was ready to rip up the rest

of the quizzes and throw them in the trash bin. Grading was never a good idea when he was in a bad mood. Aaron cracked his stiff knuckles. "Are
students getting dumber or do they just not give a damn?"

John chuckled. "Some don't care if they fail or not. Some are geniuses. I think it's been that way for a long time."
"I agree."
Both of them looked up and saw Professor Hudson standing in the doorway, smiling. Professor Hudson was a volunteer at the St Phillips's

LGBTQ Youth Center, and part of her responsibilities was to find homes for the teens the center was housing.

"Hi, Professor," Aaron greeted her.
"Any news?" John asked.
"A family has agreed to take Keith. He'd like to know if you'll visit him."
Aaron smiled. "Of course I will." Perhaps he could take the boy to the library or museums. Would a typical fourteen-year-old boy like such

things? They probably preferred going to concerts. Aaron grimaced. He and loud music didn't get along. Maybe movies would be better. At least
they could admire handsome actors together. From a purely aesthetic perspective, of course.

"Heard any news about the grant?"
Her face fell, telling him everything he needed to know.
"Mr Richmond didn't give us the grant, did he?"
Professor Hudson shook her head.
"How about Mr Beaumont?" Aaron asked.
"His organization has stopped giving grants for new projects for the foreseeable future because of budget issues."
Aaron swallowed his disappointment and smiled tightly at her. "Oh well, we can try again. Perhaps other organizations?"
Professor Hudson shook her head. They'd known it wouldn't be easy, given the current economic situation.
"Who got the grant from Richmond?" he asked.
"They didn't say, but I have info from my source that it's a research proposal for elderly homosexuals."
Why did that not surprise him?
God, he needed a drink.

* * * *

Pink Flamingo was neither flamboyant nor a gay bar, as the name might have suggested. The pub was small and quaint, located on the

other side of town. It was frequented by reclusive professors and students who needed a quiet place to drink—or hide from frat boys. There was no
loud music, no men cruising for dates, dancing, or socializing. In short, this place was Aaron's idea of a safe haven.

As usual, he ordered his favorite wine spritzer. By the time he'd drunk his fifth glass, he was getting woozy. If anyone knew he could get drunk

from wine spritzers, he'd be a laughing stock.

He was staring at his sixth glass when he realized someone was sitting on the stool next to him.
"Hey," someone beside him said.

Aaron frowned. Wasn't it against bar policy to hit on strangers? He glanced to his side only to come face to face with his biggest nemesis.

"What are

you

doing here?"

Ethan flashed his usual cocky grin. "Just saying hi to a friendly face."
Aaron snorted. They were not friendly by any stretch of the imagination—well, Aaron's imagination at least. Also, there were many 'friendly

faces' in this place, like Professor Yates, though judging by several empty shot glasses in front of him, and the frightening expression on his face, it
might be wise to steer clear of the man.

"Never thought you'd be a Pink Flamingo type," Ethan chuckled.
What did he mean by 'not a Pink Flamingo type'? Should he be offended?
Aaron glared at Ethan. "What. Are. You. Doing. Here?" He poked Ethan in the chest with his finger.
Instead of being annoyed, Ethan flashed a wider smile. How could someone look devastatingly handsome and be so irritating at the same

time?

"Just wanted to get a drink, and then I saw you so I thought, why drink alone when I could have company?"
Aaron rolled his eyes. "Came to gloat, did you?"
"Gloat about what?" Ethan frowned, looking honestly confused. There was a crease between his thick eyebrows which made him look

rather… cute.

"About how you stole the grant from Richmond from under my nose."
"Huh?"

Aaron glared at him. "Don't deny you got the grant from Richmond."
"No. Yes, I got the grant. But when did I steal it from you?"
If looks could kill, Ethan would have burned to a pile of ashes on his stool.
"You mean at the ball? I didn't know you wanted to talk about a project with him and I didn't mean to pitch my proposal to him. He probably

didn't remember what we talked about the next day. After you left, he drank quite heavily—apparently, it's his habit at every charity ball he attends.
And the grant I got is not related to the sexual positions elderly gays prefer, if you must know."

Aaron rolled his eyes. "Yeah, right."
"Swear to God, cross my heart." Ethan made a crossing motion with his hand in front of his chest.
Aaron wanted to chuck his remaining drink at him, but he wasn't drunk enough. A pity he couldn't yet use booze as an excuse. "You're always

making fun of me."

Ethan frowned. "I'm not. Look, I apologize if I stepped on your toes during the charity ball. You seemed to be having a terrible time with that

man so I thought I'd step in and relieve you of his presence. I truly didn't know you had a project you wanted to discuss with him. Like I said,
Richmond usually forgets what he talks about the next day anyway. I thought you knew."

Ethan sounded sincere; Aaron could not find dishonesty in his eyes, but Aaron's father had also looked sincere when he listened to and

consoled forlorn housewives when what he really wanted was to sell more vacuums.

In his old man's defense, he'd needed to put food on the family's table. What was Ethan's excuse? He was, like Keith said, drop-dead

gorgeous and popular. What did most popular guys do when they already had everything they wanted? Oh yes, humiliate the underdog. Ethan was
no different from the jocks who'd had made fun of him in school. The thought was depressing.

Aaron finished his drink and slapped some bills on the counter. "Keep the change," he slurred. Paul nodded and took the money. Aaron

stood and walked out of the bar, wobbling.

"Where are you going?" Ethan fell into step beside him.
"Home."
"You can't drive in this state."
"Who says I'm going to drive?" Aaron glanced at Ethan, offended. "'M going to take a cab."
Ethan seemed to think for a moment, and came to a decision. "I'll take you home."
"No, thanks. I'll wait for a cab."
"Come on, it'll be a while before you catch one. I haven't had a drink and I drive a perfectly serviceable car."
"No." However, it seemed he had misjudged how drunk he was. An empty stomach and alcohol didn't mix well. He should have ordered

chicken wings or something. Aaron felt the world spin as his legs gave out. A pair of strong hands prevented him from smashing his nose against
the pavement.

"Let's get you home."
"Nuh…" he mumbled.
"You're so stubborn," Ethan said, exasperated. Without waiting for an answer, he wrapped his arms around Aaron and hauled him upright.

Ignoring Aaron's halfhearted protests, he dragged him to the car, pushed him into the seat, and snapped the seat belt into place. Then Ethan got
into the driver's seat and started the car.

"Where do you live?"
"Huh?" The world was still spinning. "Ninety-six Grayman Avenue. Or maybe sixty-nine Gay Man Avenue?" Aaron frowned, and then giggled.

God, how undignified. But he couldn't muster the energy to care right now.
Ethan sighed and drove the car out of the parking lot. Aaron lost track of how long he was in the car or where they were going. The movement made
him nauseous. He was thankful he still had enough restraint to not throw up in Ethan's car, though it would serve the bastard right.

Ethan parked in a garage beside a white painted house with a white picket fence, an American dream house. Did Ethan live here? The

place was so different from Aaron's one- room TA apartment. Could Ethan be any luckier?

Aaron groaned, half in despair and half because of his nausea, when Ethan unbuckled the seatbelt and carefully extracted him from the car.

He let his head fall onto Ethan's shoulder, past caring about dignity and propriety.

"You're popular with students and staff. Students adore you, everyone adores you. I know you can charm anyone into anything. You don't

have to humiliate me on top of that," he moaned to Ethan's shoulder.

"I never meant to humiliate you," came the reply from the man who was struggling to support him while fumbling for his house key.
"But you do. You always do," he mumbled. "Why else would you ask me out? Send me flowers in front of my class? And give me Godiva in

front of the boy I sponsor? When I can't even eat chocolates?" His head felt so heavy, he rested it on Ethan's warm shoulder. Aaron snuggled closer
to the strong, broad chest, sniffing Ethan a bit because Ethan smelled so good, clean, and fresh with a hint of a musky aftershave which would send
Aaron's libido into hyperdrive if only he were not drunk out of his mind. As it was, Aaron was content to lean on this fantastic smelling body forever.
Too bad the man was such an ass. "You're just like all the jocks. And my ex. And my family…"

"I'm sorry," the owner of the shoulder said. Even in his drunken haze, Aaron still recognized the sincerity of the apology.
"S'okay," Aaron mumbled and slipped into unconsciousness.

Chapter 5

Morning sun was a bitch. She rose too early and shone too brightly. Aaron's head hurt and he felt as if something had crawled into his mouth

and died there.

"Nggh…"
He heard a chuckle. He opened his eyes and looked in that direction but promptly regretted his action as sunlight stabbed his brain.
"Oh, God."
"Rise and shine, Aaron. It's well past ten."
The voice was too cheerful. Aaron hated it immediately. He wanted the voice to be as miserable as he was, maybe more. Misery loves

company and all that.

Wait. Company?

His brain started to awaken and reminded him of the memory of what had happened last night. His heart pounded in his chest with dread,

and he began to realize the bed and pillow under his head were too soft and comfortable to be his. The room was also too bright and airy, unlike his
stuffy apartment.

He slowly opened his eyes to see his hottest dream and worst nightmare. The hottest dream, because he had never seen anything or

anyone sexier than the hunk standing in front of him with a five o'clock shadow and mussed hair, wearing nothing but a pair of tighty-whiteys. The
nightmare part was that the hunk was Ethan, looking amused and far too cheerful.

Aaron sat up like he had been struck by lightning. The movement caused his head and stomach to stage a coup. He quickly slapped a hand

over his mouth, trying not to throw up. He must have looked pretty awful because Ethan helped him to his feet and directed him to the bathroom,
where Aaron promptly emptied his stomach into the toilet bowl.

"So, no bacon and eggs for breakfast, then?"
Aaron let out an undignified whimper.

A few years ago, one of his friends had asked if he believed in fate. Aaron had scoffed and told her fate was a construct human beings

invented so people could blame something when things didn't go their way.

Aaron firmly believed this was Mistress Fate's vengeance for him daring to mock her existence. He refused to believe it was his own idiocy

which had landed him in this situation, utterly humiliated and hung over at his nemesis's house. It left a bad taste in his mouth.

He winced at the bad pun.
"Tastes like horse piss, but this stuff really works. I've tried it myself a couple of times," Ethan said, mistaking his grimace as a reaction to

the foul concoction he had brewed for Aaron.

Aaron didn't look up from the cup of Chinese herbal hangover remedy he'd been nursing. Ethan had taken excellent care of him. He'd driven

Aaron to his house and slept on the couch while letting Aaron take his bed. He'd left Aaron alone to clean up in his bathroom after Aaron had puked
his guts out, allowing Aaron to preserve some dignity—not that Aaron had any left, but it was the thought that counted. He'd helped Aaron down the
stairs to the kitchen, and he'd brewed him herbal tea for the hangover. Ethan had been very kind to him, a perfect gentleman. He was so different
from how Aaron had envisioned him.

Still, Aaron was wary. Why was Ethan being so nice to him when he'd been nothing but cold to Ethan? And how should Aaron react now? He

was socially inept in the best of circumstances and this was by far the most awkward situation he'd ever been in. The only thing that would have
made the circumstances worse was if he'd awakened completely naked and entangled with Ethan between the soft sheets.

"Shut up," Aaron told his brain.
"Oh… sorry. Um… I talk too much, don't I?" Ethan fidgeted with the rainbow mug he was holding and wouldn't meet Aaron's gaze.
"Why are you nervous? You have no reason to be. I'm the one who completely humiliated himself."
Ethan wore a faded T-shirt and shorts. Thank God. Aaron needed all his wits about him. He couldn't be drooling over Ethan's naked,

muscular chest.

Ethan's cheeks pinked slightly. The blush made him look about ten years younger, like a shy college boy instead of the master charmer he

usually presented himself as. He looked… cute. The realization almost made Aaron choke on the bitter herbal tea.

"Um… Ethan? Why are you blushing?"
To his surprise, Ethan didn't answer and even avoided looking into Aaron's eyes. Curious. Aaron tilted his head to observe this strange

phenomenon, but Ethan stood and turned away.

"What do you want for breakfast?"

Did Ethan feel guilty about something? Why wouldn't he look at him? "Did you do something to me last night?" Despite being drunk, Aaron

was pretty sure nothing scandalous had happened.

Pity

, his brain unhelpfully remarked. "Are you going to report me to the dean or Professor

Hudson for having a drinking problem?"

Ethan turned and looked at him with wide eyes. "No!"
But Aaron's brain had supplied him with even more gruesome possibility.
"Oh, God. Did you take pictures of me? You're going to tell everyone I was drunk and spread the pictures of me puking my guts into your

toilet bowl!" The thought of his colleagues and students―and especially the jocks―laughing at a picture of him making a fool of himself made him
almost hyperventilate.

"Hey, take a deep breath."
In a second, Ethan was beside him, rubbing his back in a circular motion. The touch felt oh so good, so comforting, that Aaron fervently

wished he could lean into the hand. But he was sober now and didn't have an excuse to do so.

He moved away.
"You always think the worst of me, don't you?" The tone was completely different from how Ethan usually came across. He sounded… sad.

Aaron turned to face him. Ethan did look sad, heartbreakingly so. Aaron felt his anger and anxiety evaporate at the sight.

"I… I…" Aaron didn't know what to say, but he could not bear to see Ethan in such a state. Had he perhaps misjudged Ethan all this time?

Perhaps Ethan had never intended to mock him? Diana, a friend who majored in psychology, sometimes told him he was a neurotic bastard with
delusions of persecution thrown in for good measure. Despite her tendency to over-diagnose her acquaintances, perhaps there was some meager
amount of truth to it after all. "I am sorry."

"I'm the one who should apologize. It seems I always manage to annoy you or make you angry and now I've put you in an uncomfortable

position. I swear, I never mean to hurt you."

He looked so vulnerable and beautiful at the moment. Sunlight illuminated his unshaven face while he stood there, looking insecure and

dejected, very different from his usual charming self. He looked very… human.

The realization threw Aaron off guard.
"Ethan… I…"
But Ethan had closed himself off and seemed to have regained his composure. His expression lost its previous vulnerability and the usual

cocky smile was on his face again. However, the smile and confidence looked fake to Aaron.

"I made toast for you and there's blueberry jam. You need something in your stomach."
This scene―being in this beautiful kitchen with sunlight streaming through the white French windows and Ethan Roberts standing there in an

old T-shirt, looking oh so gorgeous and making him breakfast―was too fucking domestic. It was as if he and Ethan were a couple, and Aaron was
suddenly struck by how he badly he wanted it to be true. He wished the circumstances that had led them to this point had been different. Maybe if
Aaron had agreed to go out with Ethan in the first place and not automatically assumed the worst, things would now be different between them. If
Aaron had not been so neurotic and paranoid… This was more than he could take.

"Thank you, but I should probably head back."
Ethan smiled, but he couldn't hide the disappointment in his eyes. Aaron felt a stab of guilt once again for causing him distress.
"I'm gonna wash up and then I'll drive you to your apartment," Ethan said, raking a hand through his gorgeous curly hair. The movement

exposed a muscular arm that made Aaron's mouth go dry.

"There's no need. I can take a cab. I mean, I'm sober now."
"I insist."
Aaron didn't want to rebuff him again, so he nodded.
He sat in the kitchen while he waited for Ethan to get ready. There were so many questions he wanted to ask, and so many things he wanted

to learn about the man now that his paradigm had shifted. What did he like to do? Did he like to watch TV? Read? Whose house was this? Did
Ethan live alone? Itwas too big for a mere grad student. Aaron wanted to explore the place, to find out more about Ethan. But Ethan had trusted him
by taking him into his home and Aaron wanted to respect Ethan's privacy.

In the car, they were silent except when Aaron gave Ethan directions to his apartment.
Now and then, Aaron glanced at the man beside him. Now that his initial dislike was gone, Aaron could admit to himself he might be

attracted to Ethan Roberts and not just because of his good looks. Beneath his cocky and vain exterior, Ethan was kind and patient; the qualities
Aaron really wanted from a man. Aaron would like nothing better than to blow him. And fuck him. Or get fucked by him.

Aaron quickly looked away to stop his train of thought.
He found himself hoping for a traffic jam, just so he could spend more time with Ethan, but they were almost unheard of in this small college

town and the universe wasn't about to make an exception just because Aaron wanted to stay longer in the car with Ethan.

They reached Aaron's apartment in a few minutes. Ethan pulled up in front of the building and threw the car into park.
"Thank you very much for helping me last night," Aaron said.
"You're welcome. Just doing what I can to help a fellow TA."
The formality hurt, but perhaps he deserved the cold treatment. Aaron unbuckled his seat belt and opened the door, glancing at Ethan, who

was looking at the steering wheel, brooding. He was much more attractive this way than when he was being his over-confident self. Aaron bit his
lower lip, thinking, hesitating. "Ethan?"

Ethan turned. "Yeah?"

"Um… ah… would you go out with me?" His voice trembled. He had never in his life asked someone on a date, much less someone he had

brushed off so many times.

Idiot, idiot, idiot,

his brain chastised him,

now you're making a bigger fool of yourself.

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have…" Aaron moved to get out of the car, but a hand held his arm.
"Yes."
Aaron stared at Ethan with wide eyes, as if he couldn't believe his ears. "Huh?" he asked.
"Yes. I will go out with you." Ethan was smiling, not his usual cocky grin, but a gentle wistful smile.
Aaron beamed. "Thank you."
"No need to thank me, 'cause you're paying, man."
Aaron snorted. "Yes, of course. As long as you don't mind eating burgers and fries. No candlelight dinner with me, I'm afraid."
"It doesn't matter. As long as we can play footsie under the table, I'm all set." Ethan waggled his eyebrows.
Aaron laughed and punched Ethan on the shoulder.

Chapter 6

On his way home, Ethan could not stop the silly grin threatening to split his face. Aaron Marcus had asked him out! The shy, insecure Aaron

whom Ethan had failed to seduce had asked him out. Ethan felt like a giddy schoolgirl. If it weren't for the fact that his car still smelled lightly of
Aaron, Ethan would have thought he was dreaming.

At home, Ethan didn't strip and wash the sheets Aaron had slept on. Hm… Aaron smelled so great. Was this what scientists meant when

they talked about chemistry between people?

His happiness was short-lived, however. Aaron did not contact him for almost a week. On Friday, he got a text, saying he was busy and

would phone Ethan as soon as possible.

Another two weeks passed, and Ethan was ready to tear his hair out in frustration. Had Aaron changed his mind? Should he call Aaron?

Yeah, because it went so well the last time Ethan asked him out. What to do? Should he call Aaron first or would it freak Aaron out again? The
uncertainty was driving him crazy.

A week later, Ethan was an absolute bastard, especially during his last class of the day. For the first time in his life, he wasn't smiling when

he substituted for Professor Yates. Instead, he glared at his students. He supposed he looked menacing enough that no one chatted with each
other or slept while he was teaching. The jocks sat up straighter and didn't make smart-ass remarks. The know-it-alls didn't pester him with their
arguments and endless questions. Hell, no one even texted or played with their cell phones.

When class was finally over, Ethan dismissed the students and prepared to return to his office. In the hall, Aaron was leaning against the

wall, his hands in his pockets. He smiled when he saw Ethan. The knot in Ethan's chest eased.

"Hey," Aaron said.
"What? No flowers? No candies? I'm hurt!" Ethan could not stop himself from grinning like an idiot.
Aaron snorted. "I think I'll save the romantic stuff for Valentine's Day."
"I'll look forward to it."
"Sorry. I've had to get Brandon out of trouble several times and it's taking all my energy."
"Brandon?" Ethan raised his eyebrows; a flicker of jealousy started to bloom in his chest.
"The new boy I'm sponsoring. He ran away a couple of times, got into fights with his classmates. They almost kicked him out of school."

Aaron looked troubled.

"Oh." Ethan felt dumb now. He was being an idiot. Shouldn't Aaron be the insecure one between the two of them?
"A psychologist is handling his case now, and he seems to have calmed down a little. I'm really sorry, but I can't go out this week or maybe

even the next. Professor Jenkins told me to revise the literature review section of my dissertation. It's a nightmare!" Aaron raked his hair with his
hands. "The theoretical base isn't strong enough. I have to find new theories, and past research of the topic is minimal, at best."

Ethan saw lines of stress and exhaustion in Aaron's face. He felt the need to smooth those lines, but he resisted the urge to reach out to

Aaron. Not yet. Too soon. Ethan didn't want to spook him again. He had to do it right this time.

"I think you're very brave to choose bug-chasing as your topic. I know it's far from easy to tackle. It's certainly important though, so kudos to

you."

Aaron relaxed a little. "How's your dissertation going?"
"Fine. Professor Yates is eccentric and temperamental, but he's a damn good advisor. He helped me with my theoretical framework when I

was …"

A loud growling sound came from the direction of Aaron's stomach, who immediately flushed scarlet. Aaron, still blushing, covered his

stomach with a hand, as if that would stop it from growling again. It was unbelievably endearing. Ethan swallowed a smile. He knew better now than
to do something which could be misinterpreted as mocking. "C'mon, let's go get coffee and a sandwich. I haven't had lunch yet. I know a fabulous
coffeehouse just a block from here."

They arrived at the place on the heels of the lunch rush hour. Ethan chose his favorite spot near the window, where he usually sat by himself

for hours when studying. It felt right to share this space with Aaron. They ordered coffee and sandwiches. Ethan added a slice of cheesecake for
dessert, but Aaron declined.

"I'm lactose intolerant."
"That must be tough."
"Not really. I'm used to it."
Ethan shuddered. "I can't imagine my life without cheese or cream. Maybe that's why I became so hairy?" He pretended to examine his

hands.

"You're so silly. People would think you're a freshman instead of a TA." Aaron chuckled.
Aaron was pleasant to be around when he was relaxed. Ethan grinned. He would have to crack more jokes, as long as they were not

perceived as making fun of Aaron.

Their order arrived, and they shifted their attention to their food. Ethan discreetly stole a glance at Aaron, noticing how neat Aaron was, even

when he was eating his sandwich. Aaron ate fast and Ethan raised his eyebrows, seeing the amount of food Aaron demolished and wondering why
he didn't have an ounce of fat on his body. Either he had a high metabolism or didn't eat properly. The latter was more likely. Most grad students
had been there.

Ethan said. "You're volunteering at the Youth Center, right?"
"Yup."
"Are all the boys you sponsor as troubled as Brandon?"
"No. Some of them are really good kids. Do you remember the boy I was talking to when you delivered the chocolate?" Aaron launched into

the story of how they'd found Keith on the street because his parents had kicked him out, and how Aaron became Keith's sponsor. "I gave him the
chocolates and he told me to date you so he could have more. The brat even gave me a condom he'd stolen from a convenience store."

Ethan almost choked on his sandwich, laughing. Aaron joined in.
Ethan gazed at him fondly after their laughter died down. "You're a good guy, Aaron," he said.
Aaron blushed. "Anyone would have done the same," he replied.
"No, Aaron. Certainly not anyone. Not every man volunteers to help young boys find new homes."
Aaron thought about it for a second. "Okay," Aaron said and smiled. His phone chimed. Aaron looked at it and grimaced. "Sorry, I have to

run. I have an appointment with Professor Russell, who's willing to help me with the literature review." He removed some bills from his wallet. "Does
this count as a date?"

"Maybe. We can call this a late lunch date if you want."
"Then I'll pay. I promised you, didn't I?"
"Yeah," Ethan conceded. "But next time, it's on me. Fair's fair."
"All right."
"Same time next week?" Ethan asked, but Aaron looked hesitant. "Hey, it's okay if you can't make it. I know you're busy. Text or call me

when you have time, okay?"

"Okay." Aaron smiled, which lit up his face and made him look younger and more carefree. Ethan's stomach did a little flip-flop.

* * * *

I have to cancel our date today. Brandon called me. He's in trouble again.

Ethan stared at the text message, annoyed, and angry too. This was the third time Aaron had cancelled their lunch in the past two months.

The first time had been due to Aaron's academic advisor changing her consultation schedule. But the second and now third time had to do with
Brandon. Despite the sessions with the counselors, he still got into trouble and Aaron, as his sponsor, felt it was his responsibility to get him out of
it.

Ethan took a deep breath and calmed himself. Did he like Aaron? Yes, very much so. Did he want to date Aaron? Of course he did. Did he

want to be Aaron's boyfriend? Double yes. Could he accept that Brandon—or any boy Aaron would sponsor in the future—was higher on Aaron's
priority list than Ethan?

That question was harder to answer.
Ethan mulled over the problem while he walked around campus, trying to sort out his thoughts. He stopped at the sociology department's

main building. He hadn't planned to go there, but perhaps his subconscious mind had other ideas. Aaron walked out and almost slammed into
Ethan in his hurry, but Ethan dodged at the last second.

"Sorry," he said and kept walking.
"Aaron!" Ethan called. "Wait!"
Aaron stopped and turned around. "Ethan? What are you doing here?"
"I came here to see you," Ethan answered.
"Oh. Thanks, but I have to go."
"Go where? Why are you in such a hurry?"
"Brandon got arrested this morning. He skipped class and got into a street brawl. He also accidentally hit the arresting officer when the

police tried to separate them." Aaron looked completely stressed out. He was pale. There were dark circles underneath his eyes and his clothes
hung loosely. The sight made Ethan's heart ache.

"I'm coming with you," Ethan said. Anything to help Aaron and make him better.
"What?"
"I'm coming with you," Ethan repeated while Aaron stared at him in confusion. "Come on, I'll drive you there."
"But… but you… You don't have to do this."
"I know. I want to. Come on, let's go."
Aaron bit his lower lip and thought for a few seconds. "All right."
They walked to the parking lot and got into Ethan's car. "Brandon is being held downtown," Aaron said.
Ethan nodded and drove his car out of the university complex. From the corner of his eye, Ethan saw Aaron tapping his foot and biting his

lips.

"I never had to bail someone out of jail before," Aaron said. "Maybe I should contact the center to see what they can do. I don't want Brandon

held longer than necessary."

"Don't worry, I'll help you. I've done it before so I know how. Well, to be exact, my brother bailed me out of jail before."
Aaron stared at Ethan as if he'd sprouted a second head. "You were arrested?"
Ethan grinned. "It was on my twenty-first birthday. Cocktails. Strippers. Some glow-in-the-dark sex toys. Wanna know more?"
"No!" Aaron looked green.
Ethan smirked. The party hadn't been as wild as the list implied. They'd just disturbed the neighbors with their loud partying and were too

drunk to answer the police properly when they'd arrived. But Aaron didn't need to know the details, and the thought of Ethan doing crazy things
probably gave Aaron something else to think about rather than worrying about Brandon.

* * * *

Ethan didn't have many talents, aside from his academic achievements, but he did know how to use his looks and charm to his advantage. A

few hours, several sweet smiles, and not-so-subtle flattery to the female police officer on duty later, Ethan had bailed Brandon out of jail. The brat
was scared, though he tried hard to look brave. He put his trembling hands in his pockets and his eyes were moist. His lips were bleeding, and he
had a black eye and a few bruises on his knuckles. His T-shirt was a mess, but other than that, he seemed to be fine.

Ethan breathed a sigh of relief when they got out of the police station and into his car. Aaron and Brandon sat in the back.
"What happened?" Aaron asked in low voice.
Brandon didn't answer.
"Are you hurt?" Aaron prodded.
Ethan adjusted the rearview mirror and saw Aaron reach for Brandon's bruised knuckles.
Brandon brushed Aaron's hands off. "I'm fine," he snapped.
Ethan scowled, but decided interfering would do more harm than good. Aaron was a saint to put up with this typical teenager attitude. If it

were up to Ethan, he would have spanked the brat and been arrested for abusing a minor. Yet another reason why he'd chosen to work with older
people. He started the car's engine and focused his attention on the road.

Ethan couldn't hear what they were talking about from the front seat because Aaron talked in a low voice, but fifteen minutes later Brandon's

tone was less curt. He looked almost contrite when they got out of the car. Ethan amended his earlier assessment. Aaron wasn't just a saint. He
was an angel.

Ethan waited outside while Aaron accompanied Brandon inside the youth center. An hour later, Aaron returned.
"I'm sorry it took so long," he said with an apologetic tone. "You've been a great help, Ethan. I really owe you."
Ethan waved it off. "It's nothing really. Anything I can do to help."
Aaron smiled, his expression was soft with wonder and affection. It made Ethan almost unable to control a desire to kiss him. "A certain

someone told me once I was a nice guy for helping young boys. It seems you're nice too," he said.

Ethan swallowed. He tore his gaze from Aaron and focused on his shoes instead. His face heated up. He didn't think he deserved such a

high praise. After all, he'd done it for Aaron, not Brandon.

"Um… are you hungry?" Ethan asked. "I don't know about you, but I could eat a horse right now."
Aaron nodded. "Yeah, I'm starving. I know a good Thai restaurant around here."
"Thai sounds great."
"My treat," Aaron said.
"Nope. My treat. It's my turn, remember?" Ethan grinned.
Aaron frowned and opened his mouth, but then changed his mind and smiled. "Deal!" he said.

Chapter 7

The arrest seemed to subdue Brandon. Aaron no longer had to cancel their dates because of the boy and he appeared to be less stressed

and exhausted. They also had more time for their lunch dates. Sometimes all they did was eat before rushing back to campus or to other places.
Sometimes they had time to chat. They talked about their studies. Their fields overlapped to a great extent and that sparked lengthy discussions
between them. Aaron was a brilliant and dedicated student, and Ethan loved to see the fire dancing in Aaron's eyes whenever they were engaged
in heated academic debate.

Ethan talked about his grandmother and his friends. Aaron was surprised to learn Herbert was bisexual and was only twenty-nine. Aaron had

thought Herbert was pushing forty and a married man with kids. Ethan laughed himself silly and repeated that to Herbert, who sulked. Served the
asshole right for making fun of Aaron.

Ethan learned little things about Aaron: that he was a coffee addict, could make ice cream from coconut cream, and enjoyed reading

mysteries, especially Sherlock Holmes. As Ethan had suspected, Tony, John's Daddy, had ties to an Italian mob family and was a former
heavyweight boxer. Ethan shuddered a little. He definitely had to make sure never to hurt Aaron. He'd never survive being Tony's punching bag.
However, Aaron was closemouthed about his family and his past. Ethan knew better than to push.

On their ninth meeting Aaron arrived with a big grin. There were still dark circles under his eyes and exhaustion lines on his face―no doubt

courtesy of too little sleep and too much reading―but Aaron looked happy.

"Good news?" Ethan asked.
"Professor Jenkins said the literature review was solid. I can proceed to the next stage."
"That's awesome. Your hard work has definitely paid off."
"At least for now. I still have a long road ahead of me."
"We should celebrate!"
"Okay. When?"
Ethan nodded. "Right now. Sandwiches are good, but I want a real meal, maybe a juicy steak or yummy barbecue. We're going to eat ribs,

drink beer, and play footsie under the table."

Aaron elbowed him, and Ethan looked at Aaron with a deliberately pitiful expression on his face which made Aaron burst out laughing.
They went to a rib house near the center of town. It wasn't an ideal place for a romantic date. It was too noisy and crowded. Most patrons ate

with their fingers and there were loud slurping noises around them as people sucked the last bit of meat or sauce from their fingers. The place
smelled of smoked meat and barbecue sauce. It was Ethan's favorite location in the whole world, rest rooms in gay bars included.

Aaron tried to use a knife and fork at first. Ethan rolled his eyes. "C'mon man, use your fingers." He tore off a rib and chewed loudly. Aaron

sniggered at the sound he made. Ethan only grinned. He must look like some sort of barbarian, with pieces of meat stuck between his teeth and
barbecue sauce around his mouth. He didn't care. He hadn't had so much fun in ages.

He tore off a chunk of meat, dipped it into the sauce, and fed it to Aaron. "C'mon, try my Southern pork ribs." Aaron shook his head. Ethan

waggled his eyebrows. "It's good, I promise."

Aaron opened his mouth and Ethan brushed his fingers against Aaron's lips. The way Aaron took the food and licked the tips of Ethan's

fingers felt so erotic to Ethan. Aaron didn't do it intentionally, of course. Aaron sucked gently, enough to ensure the sauce would not drip on to the
table, but it was one of the hottest things Ethan had ever experienced. Ethan moaned his appreciation.

"Ethan!" Aaron sputtered. "We're in public."
Ethan laughed and slurped his Coke. He was driving, so no beer for him, sadly. He took off his shoes, extended one foot, and brushed it

against Aaron's calf. There was a swift kick to his leg. "Ow!"

Aaron's put on a stern professor expression. "Behave or I'll spank you."
Ethan's mouth dropped open. "Who are you and what have you done with Aaron Marcus?"
"I learn things from John, you know. Once, he told me his ex-Daddy had a fetish for pink lacy underwear so John wore it to provoke his

Daddy into spanking him."

Ethan shuddered. "TMI, man! Now I need brain bleach, thanks to you!"
"Prude," Aaron smirked.
Ethan threw a napkin at him.

They had just finished their dinner and were waiting for the waiter to bring them their bill when Aaron suddenly went rigid, his face as pale as

if he had seen a ghost.

"Well, well, well. Look who's here," said a mocking voice from behind Ethan.
Ethan turned and saw two men standing near their table. One of them looked as bewildered as Ethan felt, but the other was staring at Aaron

with derision in his eyes. He was an ordinary guy: average height, a bit stocky with military-style brown hair. The way he was eyeing Aaron, with a
smug smile on his face and a malicious glint, made Ethan immediately dislike him.

"Syd," Aaron had gone as white as a sheet.
"My little queen has finally grown up, huh?" The man smirked.
Aaron didn't answer. He withdrew into himself.
Ethan felt a pang in his chest. He clenched his fist, ready to punch the jerk in the face, consequences be damned. "You know this guy,

Aaron?"

Syd turned to Ethan. His demeanor changed. He smiled, which made him look like a snake oil salesman. "Let me introduce myself," he

said, extending his hand. "I am Syd Walters."

Ethan looked at the hand offered to him but didn't shake it. "Okay, Syd. Well, nice to meet you, but we're just about to leave. Excuse us."

Ethan stood. Aaron followed his lead. Aaron had clenched his hands so hard the knuckles had turned white.

"I gotta warn you, buddy. With him you'll get the short end of the stick."
Ethan ignored him. He moved to Aaron's side and placed a hand on the small of Aaron's back. Punching the guy would only lead to trouble

and that was the last thing Aaron needed right now.

"He's as frigid as an ice queen, that one," Syd said from behind them.
Ethan had had enough. He swiveled and drew back to punch the guy in his face, but Aaron's fist got there first. Syd staggered back, holding

his nose.

"Fuck!" Syd shouted. "You broke my nose, you son of a bitch!" He was preparing to hit back but the guy with him grabbed his arm.
"Stop that, you fucker. What's wrong with you?" Syd's companion glared at Syd. Everyone around them turned their heads to stare.
"You're on their side?" Syd screamed back.
The guy's staring eyes now fixed on Syd.
"I can't believe you're doing this on our first date. Have you lost your mind?" the guy spoke through clenched teeth.
"You're humiliating me!" Syd replied with a high tone. Almost everyone in the restaurant was watching the drama unfold. A few children

started to cry and a man who might be the restaurant's manager and two male waiters were arriving at the scene.

Perfect time to leave, while everyone's attention was focused on Syd and his unhappy first date. Ethan grabbed Aaron's arm and led him

away. He shoved a hundred dollar bill into the hand of a waiter. "Payment for table sixteen. Keep the change."

Chapter 8

Aaron was in a daze while Ethan drove them home. He couldn't believe he had punched Syd in public. He'd never hit anyone before. His

hand was a little sore but he felt good. More than good. Perhaps the adrenaline rush was causing his sudden euphoria.

"Hey," Ethan's concerned voice broke his reverie. "Are you okay?
"I'm fine." Aaron saw Ethan observing him from the corner of his eye.
"Who was that guy?"
"My ex. He's a controlling bastard. I guess he still can't swallow the fact that I dumped him."
Ethan snorted. "Douche bag is what he is. So glad you hit him. I was about to teach the jerk a lesson, but you beat me to it."
"I'm glad I did."
The drive to Aaron's apartment took fifteen minutes. This time, Aaron didn't hesitate or think twice.
"Do you want to come up for a drink? I brew excellent cappuccinos. Better than Starbucks."
"I'd love to, but are you sure? I mean, I'd understand if you wanted to call it a night after what happened."
"I'm sure." Aaron infused as much confidence as he could into his voice. It wasn't difficult. He felt empowered. Was it wrong to feel so good

after hitting a guy? That was breaking a law, wasn't it? Assaulting someone? Aaron couldn't bring himself to care. Syd had had it coming.

They took the stairs to Aaron's apartment on the third floor. "Home sweet home," Aaron said, unlocking the door. He felt self-conscious

because this was nowhere near as nice as Ethan's dream house. The living space was spotless but small, and the furnishings were sparse. He'd
never minded where he lived before, but seeing it through Ethan's eyes made him wish he had more to offer.

Ethan smiled at him. "Nice place," he said sincerely, and just like that, the knot in Aaron's chest unraveled.
"I promised you coffee." Aaron went to the kitchen and brewed two cups of cappuccino with his espresso maker, perhaps the only luxury

item in the apartment. Ethan followed him, his eyes fixed on the shiny machine. Aaron smiled proudly, patting it as if it were a beloved pet.

They sat on the loveseat, drinking coffee made from Sumatran beans. Ethan looked at ease sitting in Aaron's small, cramped apartment.

Ethan felt warm and inviting beside him and Aaron couldn't help but scoot close enough to almost touch.

"Let me see your hand," Ethan said after they finished their drinks.
"It's nothing. Just a little sore. I didn't hit him too hard." Aaron allowed Ethan to take his hand and examine it. The simple touch was

electrifying, and Aaron wanted more.

Aaron caught Ethan's scent again, that dizzying odor that was Ethan mixed with the smell of barbecue from the rib house. Aaron wondered if

he tasted as good as he smelled.

Aaron had never taken the first step in physically seducing a man. This time, it seemed his subconscious mind joined forces with the rest of

his body and took over—that would be his story if the situation went downhill and he would stick with it, dammit! He cupped Ethan's head in his
hands and turned it toward him. Ethan looked startled, but Aaron―or the primitive part of his brain―didn't care. He kissed Ethan.

He wondered no more: Ethan tasted wonderful, Aaron wanted to kiss him forever. Hungry for more, his kisses became more aggressive.

His hands kneaded and rubbed Ethan's back. Ethan kissed back enthusiastically, but when they broke apart for air, he stopped Aaron.

"Wait, wait."
Aaron frowned. "Wait what?"
"Shouldn't we talk about this?"
"No," Aaron said and went back to kissing him again, moving so he was on Ethan's lap.
Ethan wrapped his hands around Aaron's waist. "You sure about this?"
Ethan's objection finally registered; Aaron got control of his primal self and pulled back. Unfortunately, this also meant his insecurity and

neuroses returned with a vengeance. Aaron started to hyperventilate. He scrambled away from Ethan, or tried to.

"Wait, I didn't mean…" Ethan wrapped his arms tightly around Aaron before he could move away, dropping his head on Aaron's shoulder.
"It's not that I don't want you. You know I do. God knows I can't stop thinking about you. But I'm worried you'll freak out and run if we rush

things."

Aaron's breathing slowed as he calmed down a bit. Ethan had a point.
"I like you," Ethan continued, voice slightly muffled by Aaron's shoulder. "I find you fascinating."
Aaron snorted. Yeah right, because he always seemed to make a fool of himself.
"I'm not joking or teasing you. Not at the moment. I do admit it's fun to tease you sometimes, to get a reaction from you. You're always so

aloof, so oblivious to what happens around you."

"People call me socially inept."
Ethan shook his head. "I think that's what draws me to you. I'm getting tired of men who throw themselves at me for a quick lay, to be honest."
Aaron rolled his eyes. "Don't tell me I'm the only man who doesn't fall for your charm. I won't believe that."
Ethan chuckled. "You are certainly not the only one, but you draw my attention, not to mention being one hell of a guy. I haven't seen anyone

tame a sulky teen like you do. And the fact that you're so sexy helps too." His voice was light, teasing.

Aaron's cheeks heated. "Shut up," he said. He kissed Ethan again. Perhaps it wasn't love. Not yet, It was certainly too soon for him to say he

loved Ethan, but the attraction was there and Aaron was damned if he would lose the chance to try to build something between them.

He nipped gently at Ethan's lips before kissing his way down to Ethan's stubbly chin, then to his neck.
"Mm…" Aaron buried his nose into Ethan's neck and inhaled deeply. Heaven.
Ethan drew a sharp breath and clutched Aaron tighter. Aaron smiled, pleased with himself. Ethan's gesture gave him confidence. What had

Syd said? That Aaron was a frigid queen? Maybe that son of a bitch hadn't been hot enough to turn him on.

Without taking his mouth off that delicious neck, Aaron slipped his hands under Ethan's shirt. Ethan unbuttoned Aaron's shirt and touched

Aaron's skin, rubbing at his sensitive nipples before wandering lower, caressing him all the way. The strong, slightly calloused hands on his skin
drove Aaron crazy with want.

"Nnggh," Aaron moaned.
"You feel so good," Ethan murmured.
Aaron closed his eyes and let the words wash over him. It had been so long since anyone had found him so desirable.
"Thank you," he replied, the words barely audible. For a second he thought how ridiculous he sounded and cringed.

Ethan sensed his mood change. "What's wrong?" he asked.
Aaron pulled back and Ethan's eyes were bright and clear, without any malice.
"Nothing," Aaron replied. He couldn't tell Ethan yet. It was too early to be entirely vulnerable in front of him. But maybe in time he would trust

Ethan enough to share his past, his insecurities, and perhaps, despite all Aaron's neuroses, Ethan would stay.

Aaron decided to go straight to the prize. He moved down from Ethan's lap to kneel between his legs. He unbuckled Ethan's belt and helped

him wriggle out of his pants and underwear, wanting to check what was hidden underneath the tighty-whiteys he'd caught a glimpse of at Ethan's
house a few months ago.

Ethan certainly had an impressive package. Aaron's mouth watered at the semi-hard cock, clear evidence that Ethan desired him. He

proceeded to sample the delicacy.

Dessert

! His libido cheered.

"Fuck!" Ethan shouted when Aaron took his cock into his mouth and sucked.

Aaron smirked around his mouthful and continued to suck. Ethan was clutching his hair, but not hard enough to hurt. It seemed as if the man

was trying to decide between fucking Aaron's mouth and restraining himself.

Well, we can't have that, can we?

Aaron redoubled his efforts. Ethan tasted so damn good. Ethan responded by making noises that were both endearing and arousing at the

same time. Aaron massaged Ethan's balls, determined to make the man lose control, but just before Ethan came, he cried out, "Stop! I want to
come inside you."

Ethan's eyes had darkened with lust until they were almost black. His face was flushed, his lips were swollen with kisses, and his bare chest

glistened with sweat. Aaron nodded, his erection pulsing in his underwear.

Aaron scrambled to the bathroom for lube and a condom. By the time he returned, Ethan had divested himself of his pants, socks, and

shoes. Aaron quickly followed suit.

Aaron slathered his fingers generously with lube, even as some of it dripped on the couch. That was going to leave a mess. Aaron winced,

but one look at Ethan's hard cock and his brain turned to mush.

Aaron needed to have that gorgeous cock inside him. Now! He prepped himself by shoving a finger inside his ass, then two, while Ethan

watched with wide eyes. Aaron ripped the condom foil off with his teeth and rolled it on to Ethan's erection. Then he straddled Ethan and sank down
on him.

"Oh, God!" he groaned, closing his eyes. It burned a little. It had been a while since he'd had sex with another man. Ethan was huge, and

Aaron felt like he was stretched to his limit. But this felt so perfect.

Aaron began to move. Up and down. Up and down. Every time Ethan's cock nudged his prostate, Aaron thought the pleasure he felt would

completely short-circuit his brain. Ethan held back at first, but he lost control when Aaron began to clench his ass. Aaron wrapped his hand around
his cock and started to pump. Ethan made high-pitched mewling noises that were cute and hot at the same time.

What they were doing was so dirty to Aaron, fucking on the couch while still half clothed. Aaron had never felt so uninhibited or so liberated. It

felt … euphoric!

The pleasure kept building until neither of them could hold out any longer. Aaron came with a shout and Ethan soon followed. Ethan wrapped

his arms around him while both of their bodies shuddered in the aftermath. He had never felt so blissful and connected to another person before.
Ethan had probably ruined him for other men, but Aaron could not bring himself to care.

Aaron didn't know how many minutes passed before his mind cleared from the post-orgasmic haze, but eventually he realized how

uncomfortable their position was: him straddling Ethan's lap while Ethan's softened cock was still inside him. Dried semen stained their skin and
shirts. He withdrew from Ethan's embrace, wincing slightly when Ethan pulled out.

"Did I hurt you?" Ethan looked at him with concern.
Aaron smiled and gazed at the face that had annoyed him for so long. "No. Never. It was amazing," he said and drew Ethan in for a kiss.

Chapter 9

That was

the

best sex he'd ever had. No fumbling encounters with strangers could ever compare to the awesomeness of what he had just

shared with Aaron. What he wouldn't give to experience such bliss again.

They stayed on the couch for a while, too boneless to get up. Ethan was beginning to doze when Aaron released himself from Ethan's

embrace. "Come on, let's clean up," he said. He stood and walked into the bathroom, Ethan following. They stripped off each other's sticky clothes
and put them in the hamper.

Aaron reached for a towel, but Ethan drew him close and wrapped his arms around him. "Shower would be nice," he murmured. Anything to

prolong physical contact with Aaron.

"Oh. Yes. Yes, of course," Aaron chuckled, but his voice sounded forced. "You can go first." He tried to wriggle free but Ethan wouldn't have

it. He tightened his hold on Aaron.

"Shower together?"
"Um… I've never showered with another person before."
"You know, for water conservation and all that. I heard conserving water can save dolphins," Ethan coaxed. It was endearing how Aaron, who

had been so enthusiastic during sex, had become so shy afterward.

Aaron choked out a laugh, but this time, he sounded more relaxed and Ethan smiled. "Okay, but only for the dolphins' sake." Ethan loosened

his hold on Aaron to turn on the shower.

They moved into the stall and Ethan sighed in contentment. The water beating down on his sated body felt so good. Aaron grabbed a bar of

soap and started lathering him. Aaron's touch was warm and affectionate. Those wonderful hands started playing with his nipples and Ethan felt his
cock twitch a little in appreciation.

Shower sex will be awesome,

he thought. He just needed a while and he'd be good for another round.

"Your turn," he murmured to Aaron. He took the soap from Aaron and rubbed it on Aaron's chest and arms. Aaron released a deep sigh. Ethan

wrapped his soapy hands around Aaron's cock, tugging it a couple of times. Aaron moaned. The sound was so damn hot! How could his ex have
ever thought Aaron was frigid? What the hell had that asshole done? Demanded Aaron bend over and so he could shove his cock in? That son of a
bitch didn't deserve this beautiful man.

His loss, my gain

"Turn around," Ethan said.
Aaron faced the wall, parting his legs a little, his head slightly bowed. Seeing Aaron in this submissive pose was enough to make Ethan

almost fully hard again. Ethan pressed against Aaron's back. He kissed Aaron's shoulder, sucked and gently bit it.

"Feels good," Aaron said.
Ethan's hands wandered to Aaron's ass, kneading and parting the cheeks until he could see the pinkish pucker. Ethan inserted a finger.
"Oh," Aaron moaned.
"Want another go?" Ethan whispered against Aaron's ear. "Want me to fuck you against the bathroom wall? Pound you so hard you can't

walk straight for a week?" Ethan added another finger and started to finger fuck Aaron.

"You'll feel it for a long, long time. You'll think of me, of my cock fucking your ass so hard and how much you loved it."
Aaron whimpered and didn't protest as he moved his hips to match Ethan's rhythm. Behind the nervous, inhibited façade, there was a

passionate lover waiting to come out, and Ethan was the one who'd brought this wild side out of him. The realization was heady and blood rushed
to Ethan's cock, which was now fully hard and demanding immediate attention.

"Condom and lube?" he asked, his voice low and husky from arousal.
"In the medicine cabinet." Aaron was panting now.
"Stay right here," Ethan ordered.
Aaron nodded.
Ethan moved away with reluctance and quickly grabbed what he needed. He lubed Aaron and rolled on the condom.
"Ready?"
Aaron nodded and parted his legs farther. Ethan could no longer restrain himself at the sight. He entered Aaron in one smooth thrust. Both of

them groaned at the sensation.

"Oh God, oh God," Aaron chanted, his hands clenched into tight fists.
Ethan fought to keep control. "Are you okay?"
Aaron nodded. "Please," he begged.
Ethan began to move, thrusting in and out of Aaron. Even though he'd just had sex, the urgency was still there.
"Touch me, touch me, oh please, touch me," Aaron moaned.
Ethan pumped Aaron's cock with one hand while supporting him with the other. The water had started to turn cold so Aaron shut it off.

Without the noise of shower, the sound of their harsh panting and the slap of skin against skin was loud in the small bathroom. It felt so intimate to
Ethan. They were cocooned within the steam from the hot water, shut off from the rest of the world. Ethan wanted this moment to last forever. He
held out as long as he could, but when Aaron's body tightened and his ass clenched hard as he climaxed, Ethan too lost control. He pounded into
Aaron a couple of times and came, biting into Aaron's shoulder.

Ethan needed several minutes to gather himself. After he pulled out, he threw the used condom in the trashcan. Aaron was still leaning

against the wall, panting. Ethan turned on the shower again and washed them both quickly.

"Fuck. That was something else," Ethan said.
Aaron snorted. He took two towels from the cupboard and handed one to Ethan. Ethan rubbed Aaron dry, taking his time as he wiped

Aaron's cock. Aaron blushed and returned the favor. Ethan would be content if they could do this the rest of their lives. There was no other word to
describe what he felt when he saw Aaron's satiated face.

"What?" Aaron asked.
"Nothing," he replied, but he could not erase the very silly grin on his face.
"Do I have something on my face?" Aaron's gaze turned suspicious.
"No. No." Ethan reassured him before Aaron's insecurity could return full force. He cupped Aaron's face in his hands and kissed him, a long

lingering kiss that left them both breathless. "You're so handsome," he whispered.

Aaron flushed and looked away. "No, I'm not," he mumbled, still not looking at him.
If Aaron had been another man, Ethan would have been offended, but it was Aaron, with all his fears and insecurities. Ethan felt a strong

surge of protectiveness toward this vulnerable man and anger toward all the people who had hurt him. He wished he could pummel Syd to the
ground.

"You're lovely to me."
"Don't make fun of me. I know how I look compared to you. Skinny, nerdy…"
"Stop that." Ethan cupped Aaron's head in his hands and looked deeply into his eyes. "You are beautiful. Inside and out," he said earnestly.
Aaron snorted. "That's so cheesy."
"Well, yeah. I am cheesy. I'm the king of cheese. You should know that by now."
Aaron's eyes were dancing with amusement. "I prefer to call you classically romantic."
Ethan's lip quirked upward. "That does sound more sophisticated. Cool. Dashing. Just like me."

"You're so full of yourself." Aaron laughed. Ethan grinned.

Note to self: whenever Aaron starts to doubt himself again, make him laugh.

Okay,

Ethan could do that.

"Bed?" Ethan asked. "Only to sleep. You've worn me out."
"Don't tell me you didn't enjoy it."
"Oh, I enjoyed it very, very much. Not sure how many dolphins we've saved though."
Aaron threw the towel at him and Ethan caught it, laughing. He threw both towels into the hamper. Aaron took his hand and led him toward

his small bedroom. They lay together under the covers, Aaron's head on his chest.

The bed was too small for both of them, too lumpy, and the sheets weren't soft Egyptian cotton like the ones covering Ethan's bed. Aaron

usually felt drowsy after sex, and he'd just had the best sex of his life―twice―but anxiety kept him awake. Aaron started to worry again,
remembering how different they were. Ethan was so perfect in everything. He had looks and brains. But him? He was just Aaron Marcus:
introverted, socially inept, skinny, plain. He was nothing special. He sighed, playing with Ethan's curly chest hair, which was still damp from the
shower.

"Hey…" Ethan drew him forward and looked at him with questions in his eyes.
Aaron tried to smile, but he supposed it didn't reach his eyes because Ethan frowned instead of smiling back.
"What are you thinking?" he asked.
Aaron buried his face in Ethan's chest. Ethan felt so strong and solid under him. Aaron wished he knew how to keep this man beside him.

He wished he were more outgoing, more… fun. Normal.

Would Ethan leave once he got bored with Aaron? Could he stand Aaron's neurotic behavior? Perhaps, now that they'd slept together and

he had satisfied his curiosity about Aaron, Ethan would leave? The past few months with Ethan had opened his eyes.

"Aaron?" Ethan asked again. Ethan gently drew him up and looked at him in the eye. "Tell me what's on your mind."
Aaron took a deep breath. "I'm not an easy person to be with," he said. "I'm a little… fucked up. Sometimes my insecurities, my paranoia,

make me… difficult."

Ethan wrapped an arm around him. "Would you believe me if I told you this is the first time I ever wanted something more than sex from a

guy? You could say I'm a relationship virgin."

Aaron raised his head and stared at Ethan in disbelief. "No way."
"For all we know, I'm the one who's going to screw this up."
Aaron didn't know what to say.
"I promise you I'll try to make this work. I'll try as hard as I can not to hurt you." Ethan was serious. Then he grinned, exhibiting the teasing

expression which had become so familiar to Aaron. "It's self-serving, of course. John promised me his mobster Daddy will tan my hide if I ever hurt
you."

Aaron felt a smile blooming in his face. "Idiot."
Ethan kissed him, wrapping an arm around him so their naked bodies pressed together. The kiss was more chaste this time, languorous,

not meant to arouse but to show affection.

When they finally drew apart, Ethan cupped Aaron's face to stop him from hiding again. He looked deep into Aaron's eyes, his gaze earnest,

vulnerable, and slightly insecure. And just like that, Aaron's anxiety eased a little. This man wasn't Syd. This was Ethan. Aaron could trust him.

Aaron smiled. "Yes. Let's make this work," he said and kissed Ethan again. For the first time in his life, everything was right with the world.

The End

About the Author

Cleon Lee has a busy mind and busy hands. When she's not devising a thousand ways to get two hot men together, she sews and makes jewelry.

Although a cynic at heart, she's passionate that the stories she reads and writes have happy endings because she believes the world needs more

optimism.

Her physical self is located in a country in South East Asia, but her family and friends think she lives in a castle in the sky.

Website:

http://www.cleonlee.com/

Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/lee.cleon

Goodreads Author Page:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4134455.Cleon_Lee

Email:

Lee.cleon@gmail.com

Also by Cleon Lee:

Available from

Silver Publishing

Theory of Attraction

Available for download at

Goodreads

Beneath Your Wings (free story)

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