Chapter 15 #2
He rests a hand on my shoulder, and that electricity warms me.
“No one should make you feel worthless, especially not our parents. I know things seem overwhelming right now, and you’re going to have setbacks—always—but you’ll get through this.
You’re a smart guy. Keep doing what you’re doing.
Let Braeden in so he knows that he can trust and rely on you.
When you’re vulnerable with him, he’ll feel safe doing the same. ”
Before I can utter another word, someone knocks on his door.
“What the heck? I’m not expecting anyone.” He stands and heads toward the door. “I’ll be right back.”
I reach for my glass and finish off the rest of my wine. Then I stand to head to the kitchen to pour another glass. No, this isn’t me being snoopy. Fine, I’m being super nosy.
I can’t see who it is, so after pouring another glass, I head back to the living room.
As soon as I sit down, Emily comes over and crawls onto my lap.
My brows shoot to my hairline. I have no idea why she’s here or why she even likes me enough to sit with me.
Was it as simple as giving her some damn animal crackers the other day?
I mean, she’s only three, so maybe she appreciates the simple things.
Perhaps she’s like Cicero, happy as a clam as long as he gets fed.
“What’s up, hellcat?”
“Watch?” she asks, showing me her purple tablet.
I adjust her on my lap and watch a toddler video. I have no idea what it’s called, but I’m not paying attention to it as much as I am to the mumbled voices behind me. Seth sure is taking a long time.
Someone’s voice gets heated, and it’s definitely not Seth. This voice is deeper. Without warning, my instincts are on high alert. I gently lift Emily off my lap and plop her onto the couch. “Be right back, little raptor.”
She goes back to watching her video, and the boys are oblivious, so I leave the room and head to the front door, where I find Seth trying to talk calmly to another man, who I assume is his boyfriend.
And I hate that the guy is hot as hell. He’s one of those tall, dark, and handsome types. He’d be someone I’d bring home for a fuck, for sure.
The dude looks tense and irritated. I don’t like it one bit.
“Can you please stay here while I get it?” Seth asks him.
“I don’t understand why I can’t come in.”
“I’ve already told you it’s because I’m not ready for you to meet my kids yet.”
“And why not? When will there be a good time? We’ve had several dates now. We also have a whole weekend planned together. I thought this was what you wanted when you invited me over to stay for the weekend.”
“We’ve already talked about this. I have to protect my kids first.”
“Protect? I’m a father, too, dammit.”
The guy’s voice is getting louder. Soon, the kids will be coming over to investigate, and all of Seth’s work will be out the window. This asshole is screaming red flags to me. He needs to respect Seth’s boundaries.
“Hey, what’s going on?” I ask, folding my arms over my chest and squaring my shoulders. He’s only a couple of inches shorter than me, so I’m sure I can handle myself, not that we aren’t grown-ass men, so there shouldn’t be any need for an altercation.
When the man’s dark eyes land on me, his brows drop low as his mouth twists in anger. “Who the hell’s this? Is this why you won’t let me in? Are you seeing someone on the side? How come he gets to meet the kids?”
“This is Cal. Cal, this is Leo, the guy I’m seeing.”
I ignore the introductions and point at the asshole. “First, watch your language, buddy. Second, I’m only a neighbor. A friend. Don’t get your boxers all in a bunch.”
Seth cranes his head toward me, his blue eyes seeking understanding or help, like he doesn’t know what to do.
“Why don’t you go get what he came over for?” I tell him.
Seth drops his shoulders and nods. “Yeah, I’ll be right back.” When he brushes past me, he stops and whispers, “Don’t kill him, yeah?”
“No promises.”
Leo watches our every move, waiting for one of us to ‘prove Seth is cheating’ nonsense.
When Seth heads upstairs, the guy mirrors my pose. “Who the hell are you, and what are you to Seth?”
“I’ve already told you. I’m Cal from next door. We’re just friends. But your jealousy and insistence on breaking Seth’s boundaries are highly concerning, bud.”
“It’s none of your business, friend.”
“As far as friends go, you are not that. But as Seth’s friend, I will make sure he’s protected and safe. If you force your way into his life, you will only get him to turn his back on you. He’s been through enough. I won’t tell you again.”
A minute later, Seth is back downstairs and hands a contact case to Leo.
That was it? All this fuss over contact lenses? Now I’m wondering if he left it behind on purpose to worm his way more into Seth’s life. What an asshole.
Leo takes the case and looks down at it. “Sorry, baby. I just wanted to see you. I really like you and want more.”
Of course, since Seth is kind and sweet, he melts at the fake and manipulative apology. “We’re fine, and I want more, too, but please respect my rules. You’ll meet the kids soon when I’m ready. But tonight is a bit concerning, and I feel rushed.”
Leo’s shoulders drop, and he nods. “You’re right. I’m so sorry. I won’t push again. That’s a promise.”
I believe him as far as I can throw him.
Seth smiles and rubs Leo’s arm. “Say, there’s this new tapas bar that’s opened up downtown. Want to go?”
“Yeah, I’d like that. Call me?”
“Sure.”
Leo eventually leaves, and Seth closes the front door with a heavy sigh. I’m sighing right there with him. Even though he gave in to his boyfriend, I’m sure he’s aware enough that the scene was fucked up.
“Sorry,” he finally says, turning to me.
“Sorry for what? You’re not responsible for his behavior.”
“I do like him, but he wants to move faster than I’m ready for. I hope he meant what he said about not pushing me.”
“Stick to your boundaries, Tiger.”
“He’s been great until now. You didn’t see him at his best.”
I’m not liking how he’s excusing Leo’s behavior.
When you’re a prick that early in a relationship, that’s a major warning bell.
It’s concerning, and I’m afraid Seth will end up hurt again, but what can I do?
If I’m intrusive about it, he’ll only get upset with me, so I drop the subject.
Regardless, Leo is officially on my shit list.