Pretend

Page 75

“He cares about your friendship.” Mason did, and Gavin understood that. They had a lot of history, and Isaac was practically a member of Mason’s family.
“Yes. He does. Not that I deserve it.” Isaac smiled, and Gavin found himself doing the same. “I see him…the way he is with you. What he has with you. We never had that. I’m okay with it, now. I’m sure he’s told you I don’t like to lose.”
“Yeah, I caught onto that.” Gavin chuckled.
“He’s got it bad for you. I wanted to make sure you know that I see that, and that I’m happy for you both.”
He knew it took a lot for Isaac to say that. He doubted they would ever be close, but he appreciated the sentiment. “Thank you.” Gavin held out his hand and Isaac shook it.
When he opened the office door, Mason stood there, leaning against the wall, with his arms crossed. He raised a brow and Isaac said, “Simmer down. I’m only apologizing.”
Gavin saw the surprise in Mason’s eyes, but he just nodded at Isaac, who went on his way.
“That was a surprise.” Mason pulled Gavin close.
“It was. Unneeded, though. I know you’re mine.”
“Yes, I am. And you’re mine, too, music man.”
Sometimes he still couldn’t believe his life. How much things had changed. He’d spent his life not really knowing who he was. Or trying to keep that person under wraps. Gavin didn’t have to do that anymore. He would never have to pretend again. All he’d had to do was make that decision for himself. It’s all most of us have to do. It’s just not always an easy road to get to the place you’re comfortable doing that.
“You’re forgetting something,” Gavin told him.
Mason paused a second. Gavin could tell the second he caught on, because he got that grin Gavin loved so much.
“Now’s gonna be when you want to kiss me.”
The End