CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
ROCKTOBERFEST
A big black Escalade pulled in front of Tyler’s apartment complex at exactly 7:00 in the morning. He was getting used to the VIP treatment and greeted the familiar driver, who was already out of the car and waiting by the open back door, with a lighthearted wave. “Good morning! I made you an espresso.” He handed the small paper cup to Lawrence, who looked genuinely surprised.
“Thank you, Mr. Kennedy. I don’t think anyone has ever brought me an espresso before.
“Well, they should. You’re driving and need to be alert.” Tyler slipped into the back seat and they were on their way.
Lawrence was stoic and quiet—definitely not a talker—hence the espresso. Despite the highly caffeinated drink, the man still didn’t say more than a few words.
Traffic was light, for once, and before he knew it, Tyler was at LAX. Less than two hours later, he landed at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, where car service picked him up and started the drive to Black Rock City.
It didn’t take long for the landscape to change dramatically. The terrain on either side of the freeway was serene and free from activity. Sand bathed the earth as far as the eye could see. It was so beautiful and peaceful, and it stayed that way for a long time, until activity in the distance populated the desolate desertscape.
His heart started to beat rapidly, and adrenaline had him bouncing on the edge of his seat. “This is so exciting! There are so many people!” He’d never been to anything like this before. The event was huge, and he opened the window to get a better look. Music and the sound of voices in the distance filled the car. As they got closer, he could see vendors, multiple stages, concession stands, tents, trailers, buses and RVs, and hundreds of people. Bands were already playing on some of the stages, but Wolf Pack’s set wasn’t for another two days.
Two bodyguards were waiting for Tyler when he exited the car, ready to escort him to Ethan’s RV. “Hello,” Tyler greeted them, his chin in the air and extending his hand as if he were royalty. Both bodyguards’ faces were unreadable behind their dark sunglasses, and it took a minute before one of them took hold of Tyler’s fingertips and shook his hand. He was really enjoying pretending to be someone important, but he carried his own bag since neither offered.
The bodyguards towered over him as they walked toward the area where the buses and RVs were located, blocking his view. “What’s going on today?” he asked them, trying to be friendly.
“It’s the first day of the festival,” the guard to his left answered flatly.
“Have you been to Roctoberfest before?” Tyler asked.
“Yes, sir.”
“Oh, goody. It’s my first time. Tell me everything.”
“We’re just here to make sure you get to Mr. Jones’ RV safely.”
They walked the rest of the way in silence, since the bodyguards weren’t very friendly, until they got to a small group of RVs, and Tyler saw a trailer with his name on it. “Oh my God!” he practically screamed.
The bodyguards jumped into a defensive stance, as if there were a threat nearby. They backed into him, so he was essentially the meat in their brawny sandwich, and their hands went to their holsters as they surveyed the area, ready for action.
“I don’t see anything,” one said to the other. “Do you?”
“No. Nothing.”
“Sorry, fellas. I didn’t realize you were so reactive. It was really hot, by the way,” he added coyly. “It’s my trailer! Look at it! I’m doing hair and makeup. Stop by if you need anything. I’ll give you the family-and-friends discount.”
The bodyguards relaxed and resumed their normal posture as the three of them stared at the trailer. It was bright pink with “Tyler Kennedy” scrawled across the full length of it in a fancy script font. A pair of open shears, a rattail comb, and two makeup brushes, proportionate to the trailer, were artistically painted before and after his name, and scrolls boarded the perimeter, so it looked like a giant picture frame. He knew Ethan had arranged for the trailer, and Tyler took care of shipping all his supplies, but he never expected the fancy graphics or anything the size of the trailer in front of him. He wanted to rush to it and inspect every inch of it, but before anything else, he wanted to see Ethan.
Several unmarked RVs were parked together not far from the trailer, and he knew they belonged to Wolf Pack. When he got to Ethan’s RV, he was overcome with excitement and burst through the door. “I’m here!”
Ethan shot up from the couch, ran toward Tyler, wrapped his arms around him and lifted him off the floor in a hug. “Finally!”
They shared a kiss that robbed Tyler of his breath, which ended way too soon.
“Are you hungry?” Ethan asked, walking over to the refrigerator and opening the door. “Do you want something to drink?”
“I’m famished and dehydrated.” Tyler found his bag, which he dropped on the stairs as soon as he saw Ethan, and looked around the enormous RV, which had slide outs and a canopy outside. He peeked over Ethan’s shoulder and into the fridge where Ethan was retrieving a bottle of Vitamin Water. “This is fancy.”
“Nothing but the best for my boy,” Ethan said with a broad smile and handing Tyler the drink.
While Tyler drank two big gulps, he remembered his fabulous trailer and almost choked. “What did you do?” he asked, wiping away some of the Vitamin Water that spilled down his chin with the back of his hand.
“I didn’t do anything. What are you talking about?”
“My trailer! I can’t wait to see it!”
“Oh.” Ethan let out a small breath. “You scared me. I thought I was in trouble.”
“Did you do anything that you’d be in trouble for?” It was accusatory, and Tyler hated that it came out that way, but jealousy was an evil thing. Maybe, one day, he wouldn’t have a shred of worry about Ethan and Wolf being on tour together, but he wasn’t completely there yet.
“No.”
“Good.” His tone completely changed from suspicion to elation. “I was so surprised when I saw my trailer, I almost gave your security team a heart attack. Can I see it?”
“Right now?”
“Of course, right now.” He displayed a salacious smile and ran a finger down the center of Ethan’s chest. “I’m happy to see you too, but I’ll be even more happy inside my very own trailer.”
Ethan grabbed Tyler’s hand and sailed through the door. The two security guards were still waiting outside and followed them to Tyler’s temporary salon, but there really wasn’t a need for it since the area was secure and well away from the rest of the festivities.
The inside of the trailer looked just like the trailers on a movie set, only this one was decorated with adorable neon signs, colorful artwork, and fun doodads that were perfect for a hair and makeup salon. “Who did all this?”
“I had Zoe take care of it.”
Arranging an expedited permit and all of the small details, like painting and decorating the trailer, went above and beyond anything Tyler could have imagined. It didn’t matter that Ethan’s assistant did all the leg work. It was at Ethan’s direction. No one ever went out of their way for him like this before.
Tyler had worked hard to make a name for himself and get recognition in the hair and makeup industry, and it took years. He didn’t accept any handouts or offers to move up based on reciprocation. He did it all by himself, so this genuine gesture of thoughtfulness put a lump in his throat that he wasn’t used to. He couldn’t thank Ethan enough, but he planned on trying. “This is absolutely amazing. Better than anything I ever expected. I love it so much.”
He ran his hand across the back of the styling chair and gave it a good spin, so it twirled like a top. Then he abruptly brought his hands down on the back of the chair, bringing it to a hard stop. “Your throne awaits. You’re gonna be my first customer in this new posh trailer.”
“Really?” Ethan’s eyes lit up and then he mocked gasp, bringing his hand to his cheek. “I didn’t bring my debit card.”
“This one’s on the house. Sit.”
Ethan climbed into the chair, watching Tyler with a questionable grin.
Tyler smiled mischievously and kept glancing back at Ethan with that same playful smile as he opened his boxes and found what he needed. While he organized his supplies on the counter in front of the mirror, he felt a soft caress on his right butt cheek.
“I can’t believe you wear jeans now.”
He looked at Ethan through the mirror and raised an eyebrow. “I can take them off if you don’t like them.”
“I hate them,” Ethan quickly growled with a hard scowl.
Tyler put down the brushes in his hand and kicked off his sneakers without turning around. Maintaining eye contact with Ethan through the mirror, he unbuttoned and unzipped his jeans and quickly stepped out of them. He watched Ethan closely and enjoyed the way he bit his lower lip when he saw the tiny thong Tyler was wearing. It was bright red and showed off his assets nicely, both in the front and in the back. Slowly, he turned around and watched Ethan’s eyes drop and remain on the front of the thong, which had a bullseye right in the center where it counted.
“Did I ever tell you I was a sharpshooter?” Ethan asked, deathly serious, never lifting his gaze.
Tyler tried to hide his smile and act professionally as he filled a rolling tray with supplies. When he approached Ethan, the man still had his eyes riveted on Tyler’s crotch. “Up here.” Tyler tapped his temple with a makeup brush.
Ethan let out a small laugh. “It’s hard.”
“Mmm.” Tyler shook his head slightly as he inspected the bullseye on his thong. “No. It’s a semi at best.” He placed a hand on Ethan’s arm and looked at him closely. “When it’s hard, you’ll know.”
The smile on Ethan’s face was lecherous as Tyler kneed his way onto the chair and straddled him, who was happy to assist by cradling Tyler’s hips.
Again, Tyler acted like a complete professional, except for the straddling, and studied Ethan’s face. “Have you ever worn makeup?”
“No.”
“Can I put some on you? Just some eyeliner and a little mascara. Your eyes are so intensely black. I think they’d look gorgeous. Plus, you have that dark hair and fair skin. You’re like a male version of Snow White.”
“Snow White had blue eyes.”
Tyler guffawed. “She did not. You need to pay more attention to princesses.”
“There’s only one princess that’s got my attention.”
“Flattery will get you everywhere, rock star.” He bopped Ethan on the nose with the soft end of the fluffy brush. “Let’s make you more gorgeous.” He found the black eye pencil and started to stroke it under Ethan’s lash line, but Ethan flinched. “Relax.”
“I thought you were going to poke me in the eye.”
“I’m not poking you in the eye. I’ve been doing this for a very long time, and no one’s lost an eye. Yet.” Tyler smiled. “Just kidding. No one’s losing an eye. Trust me.” Ethan relaxed enough for Tyler to apply the liner and expertly blend it with a smudge brush, without getting maimed. A dash of mascara followed, which proved to be much more difficult since Ethan wouldn’t stop blinking. Finally, it was done, and Tyler leaned back on Ethan’s lap to inspect his work. His heart fluttered at the sight of this gorgeous man, made even more gorgeous, and he let out a breathy sigh at the sultry mystique that projected from Ethan’s dark gaze. “You’re a beautiful man.”
“Can I see?”
“Not yet. I’m almost done.” Tyler selected a compact with sheer face powder from the tray and compared it to Ethan’s complexion. He dabbed a brush in the palette and glided it over Ethan’s cheek with long, delicate strokes. Those cheekbones, which looked as if they were carved by Michelangelo himself, were absolute perfection under the light matt powder.
Normally, clients closed their eyes and drifted off while their makeup was being applied, but Ethan’s gaze remained trained on Tyler. They were so close, only inches apart, and he could feel Ethan’s warm breath blowing onto his lips with each exhalation.
Tyler’s throat went dry, and he swallowed, hard. His heartrate accelerated, and his gaze dropped to Ethan’s plump, pink lips while the makeup brush gently slid down Ethan’s cheek, over his neck, and landed at his collarbone, where it rested. “You’re done,” he whispered.
The palms of Ethan’s hands gripped Tyler’s butt cheeks and tugged him closer so their hard lengths smashed together. “We both know you’re not done here.”
It was the same sentence Ethan uttered in the hotel room the second time they met, when Tyler was making a beeline out of there before something inappropriate happened. How ironic, since something very inappropriate was about to happen.
Ethan’s strong hands pushed and pulled Tyler’s pelvis back and forth, creating an amazing friction. Long, deep breaths left Tyler’s lungs as he braced his hands on the back of the chair and let the sensations overtake him. It was too much and not enough at the same time, so he hopped off the chair.
“Where are you going?”
“Get your pants off, because we’re about to desecrate this lovely chair.”
Ethan was on his feet in an instant and out of his jeans and sneakers. When he reached for Tyler, Tyler held up a bottle of Astroglide and displayed a playful smile. “Why do you have that in your trailer?” Ethan asked, impatience making his voice husky.
“I took it out of my bag before we left the RV.”
Ethan grabbed the lube and flipped open the top. “Get those tiny undies off before I rip them off.”
“Yes, sir.” Tyler stepped out of his panties and crawled onto the salon chair. Kneeling backwards and bracing his forearms on the back of the chair, he looked over his shoulder at Ethan. “How’s this?”
A sexy grunt left Ethan’s lungs as he rushed toward Tyler. With one hand wrapped around Tyler’s waist, the other prepped him with slick, exquisite strokes.
Soft kisses peppered Tyler’s spine, making him shudder. This man knew exactly how he liked to be touched and what made him writhe and beg for more. But he didn’t need to beg because Ethan was just as hungry for contact and entered him with a deep thrust. The salon chair creaked and swayed and rocked along to the pump of Ethan’s hips. Every time Ethan pushed forward, the chair flexed and then snapped back, essentially slamming Tyler into Ethan with a backwards thrust. He was sure the chair would rip out of the floor at one point, as Ethan’s thrusts and grunts escalated, but the chair held up under their lovemaking until they were both spent and satiated.
“You’re incredible,” Ethan said, his chest to Tyler’s back.
“So are you. Look what you made me do on my beautiful chair.”
Ethan stood up straight and Tyler moved off the chair so Ethan could see the mess. “That’s fucking hot.”
The alarm on Tyler’s phone went off, and he gasped loudly. “I have a client coming in 15 minutes! Get dressed!”
“Already?” Ethan asked, slipping back into his jeans.
“Yes. Just the one for today, and this place is a mess.” He dressed quickly, tidied up and washed down the salon chair so it was spotless. Twice.
“Who’s your client?”
Tyler checked his appointment app. “Skyler Ashe. Do you know him?”
“Yeah. His band, From the Ashes, is playing later. “Tell him I said hi. Maybe we can make his set.”
“I would love that, but you need to go.” Tyler started pushing Ethan toward the door. “I don’t want anyone suspecting we just did the dirty in the same chair they’ll be sitting in while getting their hair cut.”
Ethan chuckled. “Did the dirty?”
“Call it whatever you want, but I need to get ready. I didn’t even unpack anything.” He was never so unprepared, but the romp in the salon chair was totally worth it.
“OK. Calm down.” Ethan gave Tyler a long kiss, then walked over to the mirror. “Look at my face. My eyes.” He turned his head from side to side, admiring the dark makeup that he hadn’t seen before now. “That’s fucking cool.”
“I’m glad you like it. I can do it before your show if you want.”
“Yeah. It’ll look great for the show.”
“Now that that’s settled . . .” Tyler tapped an imaginary watch on his wrist so Ethan would get the hell out of there before his client showed up.
“OK. I’ll see you in about an hour.”
Tyler’s client arrived literally 10 seconds after Ethan left. Most of his supplies were still in boxes, but everything he needed was within reach, and forty-five minutes later, a very happy Skyler Ashe left the trailer more beautiful than before.
Ethan returned just as Tyler was wiping down the chair.
“Um,” Ethan paused. “Should I be concerned that you’re spraying down the chair again?”
“I wash down the chair after every client. It’s good hygiene.”
Ethan tugged Tyler against him, so their lips were an inch apart, and spoke in a low sultry voice. “As long as it’s in the name of good hygiene.”
“It is. You’re the only one who gets the VIP treatment.”
“Are you done here? Or should I sit in the chair and wait?”
Tyler let out a sexy chuckle. “Then I’ll have to wash it down again.” He looked over his shoulder at the boxes. “I can finish this tomorrow. Can we walk around the festival and get some food?”
“You can. I can’t. Not without being swamped by fans. We have meal service set up just for us three times a day, but they won’t be here for another couple of hours for dinner. I can get Zoe to pick us up some food.” Ethan grabbed his phone. “Let me text her.”
Tyler covered Ethan’s phone with his hand. “I had a feeling that would be the case. You can thank me later.”
“What do you mean?”
“I brought props.” Tyler fished through one of the boxes and held up a brown wig. “What do you think?”
“Let me see that thing.”
Tyler tossed it to Ethan, who caught it and tried to put the wig over his full head of hair and tutted while he struggled with it.
“You need to wear a cap first.” Tyler patted the back of the chair. “Sit. I’ll fix it.”
Ethan sat down in the salon chair and waggled his brows suggestively. “Like you fixed me up last time?”
“Sorry, this little butt needs a minute, Mr. Ten Inches.”
Ethan let out a hearty laugh. “Wait. Can you repeat that?” He held his phone out as if he wanted to record the statement.
“Nope. Now sit back so I can put this thing on your head. I brought a blond wig too, but with that dark eye makeup, I think it’ll just make you more noticeable. You’re trying to blend.”
“What about you? You blend?”
“I’m wearing jeans, aren’t I? And sneakers. Did you see I bought sneakers?” He lifted his foot to show Ethan. “My first pair in years!”
“Jeans. Sneakers. No one will ever recognize you.”
“I’m going to wear my hair in a bun and hide it under a hat, smarty pants.” Tyler knew if anyone recognized him, they’d probably figure out that the person next to him was Ethan in disguise, so he came prepared.
After he got the skull cap and wig on Ethan, he stepped aside and looked at it through the mirror. “Do you like it?”
“No. I look like an idiot.”
“You do not. You’re just not used to straight hair.” The style was parted in the middle and came down to Ethan’s shoulders, effectively hiding a good portion of his face. Plus, the color and texture were totally different than Ethan’s natural curly black hair. “Would you like a goatee?”
“You have one?”
“I have several options, including a full beard.”
“Let’s go with the goatee.”
When Tyler was finished, Ethan was unrecognizable with new hair, facial hair, a baseball cap, and sunglasses. “Obscure enough?”
Ethan studied his reflection in the mirror. “This is great. I don’t know why I never thought about doing something like this before.”
After Tyler tied his hair into a tidy bun, he added a generic navy-blue baseball cap and sunglasses. They were ready to go. But, first, Ethan needed to text his security team and let them know what was going on. The two of them exited the trailer unnoticed and entered the festival anonymously, while security followed several yards behind trying to meld into the crowd.
Tyler inhaled deeply. “I smell deliciousness.”
“Me too. What do you feel like eating.”
An erotic chuckle left Tyler’s mouth. “You really have to ask?”
“You little tease.” Ethan gave Tyler a butt squeeze. “That’ll just have to be dessert. How about a burger? Unless you want one of those foot long sausages.”
Tyler laughed up to the sky. “You think highly of yourself. I only called you Mr. Ten Inches.”
“Hey. It grows.”
All laughter quickly subsided, and Tyler’s face turned serious as he let out an intrigued, “Ooh.”
Ethan pointed to one of the food stands, “Hot dogs and burgers are over there.”
Tyler thought for a moment. He decided on a favorite festival food that tasted like no other. “I want a sausage and peppers hero.”
“You mean a sub.”
“I don’t care what you call it, as long as it’s greasy sausage with peppers and onions on crunchy Italian bread.” He searched the various food trucks and tents with his eyes. “Where’s the sausage and peppers stand?”
Ethan glanced around briefly. “I don’t think they have that here.”
“What do you mean? Sausage and peppers are a given at every festival.”
“Not in California.”
“We’re in Nevada.”
Ethan smiled and scratched at his fake goatee making it look extra sexy. “That’s a technicality. Come on.” He draped his arm over Tyler’s shoulder. “Let’s walk around and see what they have before we decide.”
They ended up having burgers and giant spiral potatoes on a stick, which they ate standing up after waiting 10 minutes to get their food.
“I can’t say I’m enjoying this,” Ethan complained.
“The burger’s amazing and the potatoes are hot and greasy. What’s not to like? I don’t eat like this often.” Tyler jutted his hips to one side. “Obviously, I watch my figure, but it’s nice to indulge once in a while. We can eat healthy next week.”
“Not the food. The waiting in line and nowhere to sit down. And there’s not enough shade. It’s too hot. How do people live like this?”
Tyler rolled his eyes. “Excuse me, Mr. Fancy Pants. We’re not all rich and famous.”
A frown darkened Ethan’s expression. “We should have more amenities for the guests.”
“It’s the desert. No one expects amenities. Most of these people are sleeping on the ground in tents.”
“Yeah. I guess. I don’t know. It doesn’t seem right.”
After they finished their food and got a cold drink, they walked around the festival some more. When they got back to Ethan’s RV, a woman was waiting inside. Tyler pulled off his hat and sunglasses to see her more clearly, wondering who she was, and she looked at him intently.
“Oh. You’re Tyler.” She extended her hand. “It’s nice to finally meet you. I’m Ruby Vasquez, Wolf Pack’s PR agent.” Her brows pinched together as she eyed Ethan. “Who’s this? You can’t bring strangers into Ethan’s RV. Where is he?”
“It’s me!” Ethan took off his sunglasses and hat. “I guess my disguise worked.”
Surprise made Ruby’s eyes open wider as she inspected Ethan’s face. “Wow. I didn’t even recognize you. I hope you still took security with you.”
“Of course. What are you doing in my RV?”
“Bad news. You’ve been spotted.”
“In this disguise?”
“No. I meant Tyler. A video of him arriving has been posted all over social media, and the comments aren’t exactly pleasant.” She shook her head with frustration. “I told you this was going to happen. The fans are pissed off he’s here.”
“Too fucking bad,” Ethan shot back. “They’re going to have to get used to it, because Tyler’s going to be around a lot more from now on.”
Ruby was about to protest, but Ethan cut her off. “I don’t have anything else to say, so you can leave now.”
Ruby’s shoulders fell, and she pressed her pretty red lips together. “It’s not personal.” She turned to Tyler and touched his upper arm apologetically. “Really, it isn’t. You seem like a nice guy, and we all know how happy you make Ethan. I’m only trying to stave off bad publicity.”
“My boyfriend is not bad publicity,” Ethan snapped back. “That’s a rude thing to say, and I’m not putting up with it. The label needs to support our relationship, and as PR agent for the band, it’s your job to find a way to make the fans embrace it. And that’s all I have to say on the matter.” Ethan scratched the back of his head. “If you’ll excuse us, I want to get out of this get up and shower.”
Tyler felt kinda bad for her as he watched her leave. “It’s not her fault. It’s part of her job,” Tyler commented.
“Don’t stick up for her,” Ethan scolded, then softly rested his hands on Tyler’s shoulders. “You’re too nice.” He cupped Tyler’s cheek and caressed it with his thumb. “I love you, and I want us to be together all the time. That means, on tour and out in public. I never felt this way before, and I want the world to know it. The fans are going to have to get used to it.”
“But they don’t like it.”
“I don’t care.”
Tyler undid the bun and finger-combed his hair. He loved that Ethan always stuck up for him and their relationship, and never once suggested they lay low or pretend. A lot of celebrities might not have been so willing to expose themselves to backlash from the fans, but Ethan always put their relationship first. A warm feeling settled in the center of his chest, and he gave Ethan a soft, gentle kiss. “I love you.”
A heavy knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Tyler thought it was Ruby coming back, but he heard Harris and Marshall shouting to let them in.
When Ethan opened the door, the guys entered but stopped short when they saw Ethan still in his disguise.
“It’s me,” Ethan said, with a laugh. “Tyler did this so we could walk around the festival together.”
“You did a great job,” Harris told Tyler and gave him a friendly hug. “Glad you could make it.”
“Thanks. I’m so excited to be here.”
Marshall came over next and gave Tyler a one-shoulder bro-shake and a slap on the back. Tyler always found it amusing because it was so manly, especially with Marshall’s giant bear paws.
“Welcome to Rocktoberfest.” Marshall poked his thumb in Ethan’s direction. “I can’t believe you brought a disguise. I didn’t even recognize him. You guys got to walk around the festival?”
“Yes,” Tyler answered. “I had so much fun. We ate like regular people.”
“Regular people?”
“No one knew it was me!” Ethan answered. “It was so cool to walk around just like everyone else without getting swarmed by fans. But it sucked standing in line in the hot sun and waiting for food. And we had nowhere to sit. We had to eat standing up.” He said it like it were the most absurd thing in the world. “I’m going to tell Ruby to arrange for more tables and tents for shade. I’ll pay for it.”
“That’s very nice of you,” Tyler commented, genuinely touched at the kindness. His eyes drifted to Wolf who was standing so close to the door and so quiet that Tyler didn’t even know he was there until just now. Since Wolf made no move to make any kind of greeting, Tyler took the upper hand and offered a small smile. “Hello.”
“Hey.”
And that was the extent of their interaction.
“I saw your trailer,” Harris said, his voice rising. “It’s really cool.”
“How could you miss it? It’s huge, and it’s pink! I love it so much! I never expected something so fancy. I saw you made an appointment for Saturday afternoon. You’re confirmed. Marshall, I hope you just forgot to make an appointment. Are you up for some color? I’m visualizing a deep royal.”
Marshall made a skeptical face but didn’t answer.
“Trust me. It’ll be phenomenal. Everyone will be talking about it for days. I saved you a slot right after Harris. I’ll text you the deets.” He turned toward Wolf next and decided to extend an olive branch. “You didn’t book an appointment either, Wolf. I have a timeslot available before the show if you want it.”
“No thanks,” Wolf replied.
Tyler shrugged. “Suit yourself.”
Ethan pulled the wig and cap off his head and ruffled his hair. “I’m sweating. And this is itchy.” He rubbed at the goatee glued to his chin and upper lip. “How do I take this off?”
“I need to get the adhesive remover from my trailer.” Tyler started toward the door, but Ethan stopped him.
“No. It can wait.”
Tyler felt eyes on him and slowly turned toward Wolf, who was staring at Tyler’s lower half. At first, he thought Wolf was checking him out, then he realized it was the jeans. “I told you I’ve been wearing jeans.”
Caught staring, Wolf’s eyes shot up to meet Tyler’s. After a moment, he said, “They’re better than those leather pants.”
“I don’t know why you hate them so much.”
“Because it’s not 1975,” Wolf replied, dryly.
“I’m very retro. And that’s a style. And a trend. I’m trendy and stylish.”
“Whatever.”
My God. Having a conversation with that man was impossible. So, Tyler decided not to and turned his attention back to the guys. “What’s going on tonight? Will we be able to see some of the bands?”
“Yeah,” Ethan replied. “We have side stage access for the whole festival.”
The rest of the night was a whirlwind. They saw a bunch of different bands. Tyler couldn’t remember their names, but they were awesome and freaking loud. Then Ethan and Tyler had a late dinner together in Ethan’s RV, thanks to Zoe ordering in food.
The next morning, Tyler woke early since he had a bunch of appointments that afternoon and wanted to make sure his trailer was set up and ready to go without any complications. He made two cups of coffee in the Keurig and brought them to the bedroom, still marveling at the luxurious RV.
He tutted when he saw Ethan was still face down on the bed. “Wake up, sleepyhead. When’s breakfast getting here? I’m starving.”
Ethan groaned and rolled over. “How can someone so skinny always be hungry?”
“Have you met me? I’m a ball of energy.”
“That you are.” Ethan stretched, sat up with his back against the headboard, and rubbed his eyes. “What time is it?”
“8:30.”
“They’re probably setting up outside right now. Breakfast’s at nine.”
“Goody. I have a chance to freshen up first.”
By the time they were both ready to venture outside, the buffet was all set up under a tent for them, and Tyler could smell the bacon. “ Ooh that smells good. My stomach is rumbling.”
While Ethan filled his plate with scrambled eggs, Tyler headed for the fancy juices. There was an assortment of fresh juiced veggie combos, and they all looked delicious. He turned to call Ethan over, but the sun reflecting off his trailer caught his eye. He stared at it, still in awe that it was so amazing. Wait. Something didn’t look right. Maybe it’s the way the sun was hitting the side of the trailer. He started walking toward it, squinting to see better. When he was about 20 feet from the trailer, he realized what he was looking at.
“What the fuck!” He yelled so loud that two security guards ran to his side.
“What happened?” they both asked, ready to spring into action.
“What happened?” Tyler shouted, flinging his arm toward the side of the trailer. “Who the fuck did this?” Sometime overnight or early this morning, someone had egged his trailer. His name and the beautiful graphics were smeared with half-dried, gooey, yellow and white streaks and pieces of eggshell.
Ethan came running and stopped as soon as he saw the desecrated trailer. “Shit!”
“Shit?” Tyler shouted. “ Fucking shit is more like it!” He was fuming mad. Not only was it a personal attack, but Ethan had gone to so much trouble to have this beautiful trailer painted, and someone tried to ruin it. “Who did this?” he yelled again. “Where was security?” He spun around to face the two security guards, his hands flying wildly in the air. “Where were you last night? Aren’t you supposed to make sure no one gets beyond the barricade? Isn’t that your job? Look at this mess!”
The guys from the band all ran over and stood staring at the trailer mumbling their disbelief.
But Tyler’s narrowed gaze zeroed in on Wolf because that fucker had the nerve to smile. To make it worse, one of the security guards standing next to Tyler was going on about how security was in place all night and this morning, and no one crossed the barricades.
Tyler’s gaze hardened on Wolf, and a fiery heat burned his cheeks. “It was you.”
“What?” Wolf’s brows pinched together, and his face scrunched up with confusion.
“It was you.” Tyler jabbed his finger in Wolf’s direction, heat covering his face and neck. “You fucking did this!”
“Me?” Wolf jerked his head back and snorted with indifference. “Don’t flatter yourself. You ain’t worth the time or the trouble.”
“Wait a minute, Tyler,” Ethan interjected. “He wouldn’t do something like that.”
“How do you know?” Tyler shot back, annoyed that Ethan was sticking up for Wolf. “You weren’t out here. Security said no one breached the barricade. Who else would do it? What reason would anyone have to do this?”
“I don’t know how someone got passed security without being noticed,” Ethan replied. “But I know Wolf, and I know he wouldn’t do this.”
“Why don’t you ask him instead of blindly defending him?”
Ethan paused for several seconds and then turned to address Wolf. “I’m only going to ask you one time. Did you do this? Are you responsible for egging Tyler’s trailer?”
“No.” Wolf narrowed his eyes into thin slits. “And I can’t believe you even asked.”
Ethan faced Tyler and shook his head. “It wasn’t him.”
Tyler’s mouth dropped open because he couldn’t believe how quickly Ethan accepted Wolf’s denial, as if the guy was really going to admit he egged the trailer in front of everyone. “Are you fucking kidding me?”
“I understand why you think it could have been Wolf. I asked him. He said no. I believe him. That’s it, Tyler. I’m sorry you’re on the receiving end of some stupid, immature prank, but it wasn’t Wolf.”
“It was a prank. You just said it yourself.” Tyler thumped his foot so hard he thought he was digging a hole in the sand. “You guys are always pranking one another. Maybe he just went too far and is afraid to admit it. Did you think of that?”
Doubt crossed Ethan’s eyes for a split second then disappeared. “Anyone could have done it. Security could have looked away for one second and that’s all it takes for someone to sneak in. It’s happened before. Fans have snuck on our tour bus and into our hotel rooms before. It happens. I’m sorry.” Ethan enveloped Tyler in a tight hug and ran a soft, soothing hand up and down Tyler’s back. A sigh left his lungs, and he whispered in Tyler’s hair. “Let’s have breakfast and forget about it.”
Tyler wasn’t forgetting about anything any time soon. He was furious, but he was starting to believe that maybe it could have been a fan and not Wolf, although he’d never be sure.
More security guards were there now, and one appeared to be the lead, who was asking questions and apologizing.
“I don’t care!” Ethan snapped. “Get this shit cleaned up! He has appointments in a couple of hours! I want extra security here around the clock! If anything like this happens again.” He sliced his hand through the air like an axe. “You’re all fired!”
He couldn’t believe someone egged Tyler’s trailer. It was intolerable. And how the fuck did security let it happen? They were partly responsible for this disaster because they weren’t doing their job. If they had, no one would have gotten to Tyler’s trailer. It’s not like a fan was staked out with a rocket launcher shooting eggs from 300 yards away. Someone had to be within the perimeter of the secured area. But a tiny, tiny part of him wondered if a fan really was responsible.
Tyler handled it better than he did. While Ethan was still silently fuming and seeing red, Tyler had already moved on. For Tyler’s sake, Ethan buried his seething anger. They had a nice breakfast, and he helped Tyler set up his supplies and get ready for his appointments.
Now that Tyler was in his trailer and busy attending to his first customer of the day, Ethan couldn’t let go of the burning thought niggling at the back of his mind and burst into Wolf’s RV. “Was it you? Did you egg Tyler’s trailer?”
Wolf jumped, startled at the sudden intrusion and the way the door bounced off the side of the RV when Ethan swung it open.
“I told you it wasn’t me.”
“I know what you said, but I’m telling you right now, if it was you, you better tell me. Because if you lie to me, I’ll never fucking speak to you again. If you did it, confess. I’ll be pissed. I might even fucking punch you in the face, but if you lie to me, we’re done. Our friendship is over.” Ethan could feel the anger burning his face and his eyes bulging, and he clenched his fists while he waited for Wolf to answer, who just scowled back at him.
Finally, Wolf replied. “You think I’m that much of a pussy? That I’d stoop to something so juvenile like defacing his trailer? I know I haven’t exactly been nice to him, but anything I had to say, I said to his face. I’m not a complete asshole. I thought you knew that.” Wolf leaned closer and looked directly into Ethan’s eyes. “To be perfectly clear, no. I didn’t egg Tyler’s trailer, and I don’t know who did. It wasn’t me. I’m not responsible in any fucking way for that.”
Truth was staring Ethan in the face, and he felt stupid for not believing his friend, but he had to ask. He needed to be sure. “I believe you. I’m sorry. I needed to talk to you alone, without anyone around.” Tired of the back and forth, he let out a long sigh. “Why do you always give Tyler such a hard time? You know how much I care about him. You see how happy we are. Why, Wolf? Why?”
Wolf’s lips tightened, then pursed as he shifted from foot to foot. His lungs filled with air, and he looked everywhere except into Ethan’s eyes. “I don’t know. He just rubs me the wrong way.”
“Why?” Ethan repeated, more forcefully. “Are you jealous?”
“Of course, I’m jealous!” Wolf yelled. “It was always me and you! Now this guy comes along and you totally forget about me!”
Ethan was taken aback by Wolf’s outburst, because that wasn’t the case at all. “That’s not true. I—”
“Yes, Ethan. It is. Every free minute you have, you’re either on the phone with him, jetting off to see him, or flying him out to whatever city we’re in. And whenever he joins us on tour, you disappear. The two of you are stuck together like glue and you forget about all of us, not just me. But especially me.”
Ethan was left staring at his friend without words. He had no idea Wolf felt so neglected and pushed aside. He knew Wolf was upset that he and Tyler were serious now, but he had no reason to feel replaced. “I’m really sorry if it feels like I’ve forgotten about you. I haven’t. We had that long talk last week, and I thought we cleared the air.”
“You told me you were in love with him. You were clear about that. But you still ostracize everyone and spend all your time with him.”
Ethan didn’t think he did that at all, but Wolf clearly saw it differently, and he felt like shit because hurting Wolf was the last thing he ever wanted to do. “I don’t think I’m ignoring you guys when Tyler’s around. I know I spend my free time with him when I can, but that’s because we have such limited time together. I see you guys all the time. Harris and Marsh never said they felt like I was ditching them to spend time with Tyler. If they did, they would have told me. And even if they did feel that way, they’re nice to Tyler. You’re not. And that’s not cool. I know he gets bitchy with you too, but let’s face it, Wolf. You instigate a lot of it. Tyler’s in my life, and he’s not going anywhere. You need to get used to that and find a way to accept it.”
Wolf pouted but in an angry way, with his arms folded across his chest and his breath coming out in short bursts through his nostrils.
“I’m serious,” Ethan stressed.
Wolf shrugged. “Fine. But if you’re going to spend all your time with him, don’t expect me to drop everything and come running when he’s not around and you want to hang out. I’m not going to be your best friend only when your boyfriend isn’t around.”
That hit Ethan hard, because they both had other steady guys in their lives over the years, but they never made the other feel second best. Wolf felt left out, whether he was overreacting or not, his feelings deserved to be validated, and Ethan empathized with his friend. “I’m sorry. It’s just that me and Tyler are still new, and we don’t get to see each other that much. So, when we do, we like to make the most of the time we have together because we don’t have more than a day or two. I’ll find stuff for all of us to do together more often. I promise. I haven’t forgotten about you. You’ll always be my best friend.” He opened his arms for a hug.
Wolf’s eyes glistened, his lips were pressed firmly together, and his chin quivered before he fell into Ethan’s arms. Wolf’s hug was suffocating and desperate, like they’d never see each other again, and it crushed Ethan’s heart.
He hugged Wolf with everything in his soul. He loved this guy so much. They grew up together. They were each other’s firsts. They started a band and found fame and fortune. Together. Everything that happened in their lives, happened together.
Wolf loosened his embrace, but Ethan didn’t want to let go.
“I’m OK,” Wolf whispered, patting Ethan’s back.
Emotions coursed through Ethan as he broke the hug and looked into the pain in his friend’s eyes. “Are you sure?”
“Yeah.” Wolf’s voice cracked. “I’m fine. I got stuff to do. I’ll see you later.”
Reluctantly, Ethan headed toward the door. Looking back at Wolf, the poor guy looked like he just lost his best friend. He didn’t, and Ethan almost ran back to give Wolf another hug and tell him so, but he returned to his RV because Wolf obviously wanted to be alone.
Five minutes must have gone by while Ethan stared at the wall in his RV and replayed, not just the conversation he and Wolf just had, but the last few months. He saw things from Wolf’s side, and he needed to tell Wolf that he understood. He just kept apologizing to the guy, but he never told him that he understood, and he needed to. He knew he should probably let things cool down and wait for emotions to settle before he approached Wolf again, but he couldn’t get the forlorn look on Wolf’s face out of his head and headed back to talk to his friend.
But Wolf’s RV was locked, and he didn’t open the door, despite Ethan calling his name loudly and begging him to let him in.
“He went to Mr. Young’s RV,” a security guard offered.
It made sense, and Ethan was happy that Wolf sought out Harris to talk to about his feelings. The guy was obviously a mess, and it was a good thing that Wolf wanted to open up instead of suppressing his emotions all the time.
As Ethan walked toward Harris’ RV, he paused to look back at Tyler’s trailer. The bright pink structure shown in the bland desert like a bright flower, exactly like Tyler. A smile warmed his face and love filled him to his core at the mere thought of Tyler and his colorful personality, soft heart, and feisty attitude.
As he continued toward Harris’ RV, the happiness that had him soaring only seconds ago took a nosedive. Behind him, the love of his life was making people beautiful, and he imagined Tyler cutting someone’s hair while he talked with animation and entertained his client with his antics. In front of him, a guy who meant the world to him was hurting because he felt rejected, so he quickened his pace.
With his fist lifted ready to knock on the door to Harris’ RV, Ethan stopped to listen to the voices coming from inside.
“I still can’t believe it’s over,” Wolf said, his voice sad and soft. “I always thought he’d come around and realize I was the one. We’d put the bullshit aside and it’d just be me and him.”
“I’m sorry,” Harris replied, sympathetically. “You know I love Ethan like a brother, but you’ve wasted enough time waiting for him. There’s someone out there who’s going to love you completely.”
“I hope so. I just always thought it would be Ethan, even if I had to share him.”
“That’s not right,” Harris replied. “You shouldn’t be with someone who doesn’t feel the same way about you. Don’t settle for anything less than the whole package because that’s what you deserve.”
There was a pause, then Wolf said, “I know. I just keep thinking that maybe if I told him I was in love with him years ago, things could have been different. He could have realized that he was in love with me too. I was just so scared that it would have backfired and ruin our friendship.” Wolf let out a long sigh. “It’s too late now. I lost him.”
“I know it hurts right now, but it’ll get better,” Harris said. “It’s time to move on, bruh.”
Ethan couldn’t listen anymore and backed away from the RV, tripping over a rock in the sand. He started running, tears stinging his eyes. As soon as he got to his RV, he fell onto the couch and sobbed into his hands.
He suspected that Wolf’s feelings had deepened recently, but he never imagined that Wolf had been in love with him all these years. He had no fucking idea. No fucking clue. Now the bitter rivalry and hostility toward Tyler made more sense. How were they supposed to move forward? He didn’t think Wolf would ever get over this, and it scared him because if those two didn’t figure it out, he knew he’d end up losing one of them, and he wasn’t prepared for that.
***
Tyler returned to the RV around three, this morning’s fiasco completely forgotten. The guy bounced back from anything and everything with a smile on his face and pep in his step. But Ethan couldn’t forget and move on so easily. It was fucked up.
Tyler greeted Ethan with an exaggerated kiss and proceeded to go on about his day. With his hands moving wildly through the air, he was totally enamored by some of the guys in the other bands he met today. He suddenly stopped talking and pushed out his lower lip. “Why so sad? Are you still upset about Chickengate 2024? Because I’m over it. My trailer got a beautiful wash, and it looks shinier than ever, so whoever thought they were doing me harm has another thing coming. Their plan backfired.”
The corners of Ethan’s lips spread across his face, and he stared at Tyler with all the love in his heart. “How do you do that? Forgive and forget so easily.”
Tyler shook his head and his eyes grew fiery. “Wait a minute.” He held up an irate index finger. “I didn’t say anything about forgetting about what happened. I never forget. I haven’t forgiven whoever did it either. I’m just not wasting my time on it because they’re not worth it.” He sauntered over and wrapped his arms around Ethan’s neck. “Why are you still thinking about it?”
Ethan struggled to answer. He wanted to tell Tyler to go easy on Wolf and debated on whether or not to reassure him that Wolf wasn’t responsible for egging his trailer, but ultimately decided not to mention either. He couldn’t take sides in this weird triangle. Whatever happened needed to play out on its own. Whatever that may be. “I can’t help it. It was fucked up.”
“Yes. It was. But that was this morning.” Tyler nodded toward the window. “Let’s get something to eat. I caught some amazing smells on the short walk from my trailer.”
“Do you want me to get Zoe to grab us a couple of plates?”
“No. I want to walk around the festival again. I’m a people person. I don’t want to hide out in the RV.”
“OK. I can wear my disguise again. Can you wear something to camouflage your identity too? I’m afraid people will figure out who we are. People know you’re here.”
Tyler nodded. “I get it. If someone recognized me, they’d figure out you’re the one standing next to me.” He tapped his index finger against his chin and looked up to the ceiling while his eyes moved back and forth, then they suddenly widened. “I have an idea. Bring an extra set of clothes. This is gonna be fun!”
Ethan grabbed an extra pair of jeans and a T-shirt and followed Tyler to his trailer. He had no idea what Tyler had in mind, but he didn’t care as long as they could walk around freely like they did yesterday. It was actually kinda cool, despite the long lines and lack of shade and seating area.
“What’s the plan?” Ethan asked, tossing the extra clothes on the salon chair.
“Well, first,” Tyler waved his hand in front of Ethan’s face like he was holding a magic wand.
“I love when you do that.” Ethan smiled. “You look like you’re about to throw some fairy dust on me and turn me into a unicorn or something.”
Tyler’s eyes danced as he stroked his chin in thought. “I think I’m all out of fairy dust.” He rifled through his makeup supplies on the counter and held up a jar of something. “I have iridescent highlighter. Do you think that’ll work?” He didn’t wait for an answer and quickly unscrewed the lid, dipped a brush into the loose powder and dabbed it on Ethan’s cheeks and waited. He leaned over and gave Ethan a quick peck and waited again. “Nope. Still a man. No unicorn. Not even one of those half man, half horse Sagittarius things.” He pointed the brush at Ethan. “Now, that would be hot.”
Ethan grinned. “I like to think I am half horse.” He glanced down at his crotch. “At least the good half.”
“Sweetie, Sagittarius got nothin’ on you.” Tyler placed a tiny kiss on the tip of Ethan’s nose. “Now let’s get transformed so we can go have fun at the festival.”
Ethan received the same makeover as yesterday, and then Tyler transformed himself into someone no one would ever recognize. He stuffed his long hair into a skull cap, which seemed an impossible feat in itself, and wore a short blond wig and fashioned himself with a mustache to match. The extra set of clothing Ethan brought was for Tyler. They were oversized and baggy, and without the belt, the pants would have easily fallen down to his ankles. The T-shirt hit him mid-thigh and could have been worn like a dress. It was the total opposite of Tyler’s usual attire, which was skintight with a strip of flesh always showing across his waist.
Ethan stared at him in disbelief. “You look so butch.”
Tyler toughened his jaw and jutted his chin at Ethan. “S’up?”
It was oddly exciting, and Ethan grabbed Tyler by his adorable ass cheeks and tugged him against his body and kissed him. They both had faux facial hair, and it rubbed together to create a delicious friction and texture against Ethan’s cheeks and lips.
“Careful,” Tyler warned. “Or I’ll end up wearing your goatee and you’ll be wearing my moustache.”
Ethan chuckled. “OK. Let’s grab some food and then we can rearrange each other’s facial hair.”
They headed out of the RV, with security trailing behind them, and slipped into the crowd without notice. Vendors were set up selling various items, and a table with handmade jewelry caught Ethan’s attention, so he stopped to browse. A tray filled with guitar picks on long chains intrigued him. He saw one from a band playing tomorrow night and picked it up.
“That’s real,” the girl behind the table said. “All the guitar picks are real. I had a jar full of picks from bands I’ve seen over the last couple of years, so I made them into jewelry.”
Ethan pulled the brim of his baseball cap a little lower. “I guess I have to buy it then.” He paid the girl and then slipped the necklace over Tyler’s head. “A little something to remember this trip.”
Tyler fingered the guitar pick, then threw his arms around Ethan’s neck and kissed him. “I love it. Thank you.”
They walked through the festival and Tyler stopped to point out a food stand. “I want that. The footlong hot dog with the works.”
The thing was bigger than he was, and Tyler needed two hands in order to hold it as he stuffed one end in his mouth and took a giant bite.
Ethan let out a hearty laugh. There were so many one-liners on the tip of his tongue, but he didn’t say any of them.
“You look like you’re enjoying that way too much,” a guy standing next to them joked.
Tyler gave the stranger a playful smile and a waggle of his eyebrows. “I am enjoying it. Very much. You should try it. You might like it.”
“I have tried it. Many times. And I have enjoyed it. Very much.” The man turned to Ethan, obviously realizing they were a couple. “I’m just kidding. No hard feelings. I’m a married man.”
“None taken,” Ethan replied. Tyler’s overfriendly and sometimes flirtatious remarks were just part of his fun-loving personality. There was no need for jealousy.
“It’s hot out today,” the man commented, then looked around. “They have more shade and tables than yesterday.”
That voice. It was familiar, but Ethan couldn’t place it. He was sure he knew it, though, so he coaxed the guy to talk more. “Is this your first time at Rocktoberfest?”
“Nah.” The guy waved his hand like he’d been here a dozen times. “I’ve been to a few shows.” He motioned to the guitar pick around Tyler’s neck. “Cool band.”
And then it clicked. This was Tommy Blade from Immortal Angel, only it didn’t look anything like him because the guy was also wearing a wig and sunglasses. Without his signature long blond hair, and his husband and wife who were usually always at his side, Tommy Blade integrated seamlessly into the crowd.
Ethan put his hand on Tommy’s shoulder and leaned in close. “It’s me,” he whispered and pulled his sunglasses down so Tommy could see his eyes. “Ethan from Wolf Pack.”
Tommy scrutinized Ethan’s face, then recognition hit and a series of hearty laughs left his mouth. “I can’t believe we had the same idea! How funny is that?”
“I know. It’s so cool mingling with everyone.” Ethan wrapped an arm around Tyler. “This is my boyfriend, Tyler Kennedy the famous hairstylist and makeup artist. He has a trailer here if you or your bandmates need anything this weekend.” Then he leaned over and whispered the guy’s true identity in Tyler’s ear.
Tyler, who had his mouth full, toasted a greeting to Tommy with the giant hot dog he was devouring.
“I’d love to get my hair done before the show tomorrow,” Tommy said. “I’ll swing by and make an appointment.” He turned to Ethan. “Did you hear someone passed out on stage yesterday from the heat? It’s bad this year.”
“No. I didn’t hear about it. Are they OK?” Ethan asked, alarmed.
“Yeah. He just needed some water and to cool off. I don’t remember it ever being this hot.”
“I know. I asked for the extra shade and tables. Me and Tyler walked around yesterday and couldn’t escape the sun.”
“Tommy slowly looked to his left and then to his right. “I better go. I don’t want to bring attention to us and blow our cover. Great to meet you.” He shook Ethan’s hand. “You too,” he told Tyler. “Enjoy that wiener.”
“Likewise,” Tyler said between bites. “Next time, I’ll try not to have my mouth full, but I’m not making any promises.”
Tommy laughed as he walked away turning back and waving.
Ethan and Tyler walked around the festival for a while longer, then headed back to the RV. When they got there, the guys were sitting in a circle around a cooler full of beer.
“Who let these two stragglers in?” Harris joked, knowing it was Ethan and Tyler, and a rumble of laughter ensued.
“Look at Tyler!” Marshall said. “I’d never would have recognized you. Whose clothes are you wearing?”
“Ethan’s.” Tyler gathered the extra material from around his hips and pulled it out to the sides. “I could fit another person in here.”
“They’re ridiculous,” Wolf commented, flatly. “You wear the weirdest shit. And that mustache. It makes you look like a porn star from the ‘70s.”
Ethan bristled at the remarks and gritted his teeth. He loved Wolf, and his heart was filled with compassion for the guy, especially now, but Wolf couldn’t control his mouth. It wasn’t exactly the things he said. It was the way he said them. With a knot tightening his stomach, Ethan’s gaze shifted to Tyler. To his surprise, Tyler burst out laughing.
“I know! Right?” Tyler touched the hair on his upper lip. “It’s kinda itchy, but it’s really hot to kiss with all this facial hair.” He tugged on Ethan’s T-shirt and pulled him in for a dramatic kiss filled with tongue and passion and a hand through Ethan’s wig.
Ethan could hear Wolf’s huff of breath through the rising heat in his body, but he was lost in that hot-as-fuck kiss. When Tyler finally pulled away, Ethan gave him a what-am-I-going-to-do-with-you crooked smile and shake of his head because he knew the kiss was meant to get under Wolf’s skin. And it did. He wondered if it would ever stop between the two or if this was his life now—stuck in the middle of a never-ending feud between a guy he loved to pieces who’s been by his side for most of his life, and the guy he was madly in love with and wanted to spend the rest of his life with.