Page 6 of Emeric

If it went up in flames, at least I could hopefully get off once or twice before it did.

My phone rang as I weaved through light Dremest traffic in my car. Sheldon’s name appeared on the dashboard screen.

“Yeah?” I answered.

“Where are you?” he asked. “Come over for a movie night.”

“As appealing as it sounds to watch you and Forest cuddle on the couch, I have plans.”

Sheldon was my best friend, had been since we were young. We knew each other inside and out. We even tried to be more than friends once, but it almost destroyed us, so we said never again. It was for the best; he was madly in love with his husband, Forest, and I was currently on my way to Emeric’s to get fucked, or to do the fucking. Either way, everything worked out how it should. Sheldon was happy, which made me happy. Now to do something about myself.

I groaned internally, not wanting Sheldon to hear me. His life was far better than mine currently.

“First, I don’t do that while you’re here,” he said, pulling me back to our conversation.

“Remember who you’re talking to,” I reminded him.

“Fine, I wouldn’t rub it in. I cuddle because I’m clingy as fuck when it comes to him, but I wouldn’t do it just to irritate you.”

“I know, Shel.” He would do anything for me, as I would for him. Neither of us would want the other uncomfortable.

“Second, Forest is studying, and I’m bored.”

“It’s truly flattering that you consider me your backup, but as I said, I have plans.” I stopped at a traffic light, revving the engine of my Subaru just because I enjoyed the sound it made. It wasn’t a big car, but it was quick as hell and good in the snow. With all the changes I’d made, it was perfect.

“Where are you going?”

“I have a date.”

“No, you don’t. If you did, you would have told me.”

I rolled my eyes but also wore a grin. He was right. I would have. “Fine, I’m meeting someone to fuck.”

“Thanks for buffering your words. I don’t need the details. You could have just said you’re meeting someone and left it at that.”

“Could have. Didn’t. Deal with it.”

Was I jealous of Sheldon’s happiness, wishing it were me? No. He deserved all the good in the world. I had zero physical attraction to him anymore. That didn’t mean I wasn’t dreaming of when it would be my turn to find someone.

A name entered my head—a vision of a sweet man—who I had no business having anything to do with. I didn’t want to ruin Sylvan, and I would. My past was a mess. What I did for a living was bloody. He was good and so bright he shined like the sun. It didn’t matter that he helped Jordan out. Sylvan didn’t get his hands dirty. Nothing could dim him.

“Who?” Sheldon asked.

“It’s none of your business,” I heard Forest say in the background.

“Hush,” Sheldon chastised. “I’d like to know if Ollie’s being safe.”

“Ollie’s a big boy and can handle himself,” I reminded him.

“Let me ask you a question. Do you still worry about me?”

“You’re my best friend. Of course I do.”

“Then tell me who it is so I know whose ass to kick when they don’t treat you properly. Also, so I know who to come after if you’re not home in the morning.”

“Really?” I’d end up telling him eventually. Sheldon wouldn’t give up until I did.

“Ollie…”