Courage In Love is a more personal book for me. I grew up moving from state to state and country to country because my father was in the Army. Then, I went into the Army and met and married a boy that was also in the Army. I’ve been a soldier and an Army wife. Some of the places, conversations and experiences are from my own life and there are similarities between Ross and Parker’s courtship and my personal love story. Unlike Ross and Parker’s, dating apps weren’t around when I met my hero so I decided to see what would happen if you actually found love on Grindr.
Of course, our hero is old-fashioned and needs a little convincing. And sometimes, our friends know what we need better than we do, though we may not see it at first.
“We’re tired of waiting for you to do something about your nonexistent love life, Ross,” Ian declared and Ross eyed him warily.
“I swear to God, if you’ve set this up as a blind date and someone else is about to show up, I’m leaving,” Ross promised and Bryan laughed.
“Relax. No one does that anymore. We live in amazing times, my friend.” Bryan giggled and Ross’ head pulled back in shock. Bryan was reserved and sensible. Knowing that he’d agreed to whatever Ian was up to and had actually giggled was a bit jarring for Ross.
“Et tu, Brute?” Ross asked as he raised a brow at Bryan. He only shrugged.
“Look. It’s time you found someone. Or had a little fun. You come up on your free weekends and maybe have a few beers before you crash in our guest room. I’ve never seen you so much as flirt, let alone hook up with anyone.” Bryan paused to sip his beer and Ross’ lips pulled tight as he looked around the bar, hoping for a way out of the conversation. It was fine, accepting that he wanted to find someone and that he was lonely but discussing it with his two, very happily ever after-ed best friends was making Ross anxious and his mood was turning. He was about to tell them to mind their own business when Ian reached for his hand.
“We love having you here and you’re always welcome but now and then, it would be nice to be able to have sex with you in the house and not worry that we’re going to wake up the monk.” Ian laughed when Ross’ eyes grew wide and he fell back in his seat.
“I’m not a monk,” he argued and Ian gave him an impatient look.
“Please. You barely drink and you disapprove of everything. I’ve started to doubt that you’re even gay. You know, gay men have sex with other gay men,” Ian pointed out and Ross glared at him.
“I’ve had sex,” Ross mumbled as he raised his glass to his lips and took a long drink. A few times, Ross admitted. “Just because I never had a whore phase doesn’t make me a monk.” He gave Ian an accusing look and Bryan laughed.
“It’s time you had a whore phase, Ross,” Bryan announced and Ross frowned and shook his head. Before he could argue Bryan gave him a pointed look. “It’s for your own good. In a few years, you’ll be too old and no one will want you. You’re already too cranky. We put you on Grindr and you’re meeting someone tonight.” Bryan smiled wickedly and Ross felt a tickle of panic. He wasn’t old in general but he was too old for Grindr and from what he heard, Grindr moved a lot faster than he was comfortable with. He shook his head again.
“I’m not doing that. Besides, having that on my phone could be bad for my clearance. I’ve still got a job,” he argued and Bryan shrugged as he pulled out his phone.
“We knew you’d say that. So, we made an account for you on my phone. All we need to do is fire it up and see who’s in the vicinity.” Bryan winked and looked down at his phone. Ross looked at the door and considered fleeing as his shirt started to cling to his chest and back.
“How could you?” He complained as he shifted uncomfortably. The last thing Ross wanted was to be forced into meeting some horny college kid for something that would end in rejection or Ross feeling sleazy. Ian snorted as he watched over Bryan’s shoulder.
“It was pretty easy. We used the picture I took of you at the lake a few weeks ago, cropped your head out of it and plugged in a little info,” Ian explained and his eyes lit up. “Oh! Look at that one!” His eyes got even bigger and Bryan nodded. “Oh, shit!” Ian whispered and Ross clenched his jaw as curiosity stirred. Bryan smiled as he swiped.
“We’re definitely interested,” he announced and Ross’ mouth fell open and he reached across the table.
“What do you mean We’re?” He asked as he snatched the phone from Bryan. Oh, shit, indeed. Ross could only stare longingly at the picture. A sculpted chest and abs, rich latte skin and a very large and detailed bulge hardly concealed by grey cotton made Ross’ body tighten and the room was starting to feel too warm. He shook his head as he passed the phone back to Bryan. “It’s never going to happen. That guy isn’t looking for someone like me,” Ross argued. “What does DTF mean?” He asked and Ian threw his head back and laughed.
“Baby, it means Down To Fuck. This is exactly why you need to be on here.” Ian took Bryan’s phone and began to read. “Ha! It says he’s a professional and looking for someone over thirty with a ‘similar lifestyle’. He don’t got time for poor, young college boys,” Ian sang as he typed. Ross threw Bryan an accusatory glare.
“I can’t believe you went along with this. And a guy like that is not going to be interested in me.” Ross resisted the urge to grab the phone again. He wouldn’t mind staring at the picture for the rest of the evening. Hell, he could do a lot with that picture after a few beers and a little privacy. Ian started to bounce excitedly.
“He replied!” Ian gasped and he leaned back, out of Ross’ reach when his hand shot across the table.
“What are you doing?” Ross knew he sounded terrified. He was. Ian turned, taking the phone further out of Ross’ reach as he continued to type.
“He’s going to meet you here. Says he was about to pass right by anyway and he doesn’t have any other plans.” Ian squealed and Bryan’s head tilted as he read over Ian’s shoulder.
“You’ve got about five minutes,” Bryan informed him and Ross started to shake his head frantically.
“No, no, no, no, no!” He whined as he pushed a hand through his hair. “I can’t do this! I can’t meet some random, slutty guy.” Ross hated that his face was probably turning red. The strong flight instinct that had served him so well was screaming for him to run way. Bryan pointed across the table and gave him a hard stare.
“Listen to me, Ross.” He was suddenly serious and Ross almost nodded. “You’re going to sit at that table and have a drink with a ridiculously hot guy. It doesn’t have to be more than that. Just do something for once. You’re not happy and we’re tired of waiting for you to realize that and do something about it. You’re a great guy and you deserve more than a sad little house and moping around here on the weekends.” Bryan waited while Ross digested his statement.
“I don’t mope,” Ross mumbled and Ian nodded.
“You do. All you have is work. When you aren’t with the team, you spend your weekends doing our chores because you want what we have. It’s time for you to get your own life.” Ian squeezed Ross’ hand encouragingly.
“If you’re tired of me, you should have just said so,” Ross teased and Ian rolled his eyes.
“Shut up. We’re not tired of you. We love you. And we’d both feel better if you at least got laid,” he said as his head jerked toward the empty table by the window. “Go over there and try not to be boring.” Ian winked and Ross slouched.
“Fine. I’ll have a beer but I’m not having a one night stand.” He scrubbed a hand over his face and groaned. “This is going to be a train wreck,” Ross predicted before he got up and went to the other table.
Oh, the morning after…
“This is good.” Ross said as he raised his mug and Parker nodded as he tried to find something to keep the silence from getting awkward.
“So, do you want some breakfast? I don’t really have anything here so we’d have to go out. I’m not much of a cook,” Parker admitted and Ross chuckled as he stared into his mug.
“I don’t cook either,” he said softly before he cringed. “I’d love to go get breakfast with you but I can’t.” Ross looked up at Parker apologetically and disappointment swelled.
“That’s cool. I’ll give you my number, you can call me if you want.” Parker chewed on his lip and tried to look relaxed as he stared into his coffee. When he looked up, Ross’ head was cocked and his brows were pulled together as he stared at Parker.
“If I want?” Ross asked slowly and Parker nodded. Ross set his mug down and reached for Parker. “I’m definitely going to call. I don’t want to go, Parker.” His voice was deep and velvety as he wrapped his arms around Parker. “I’m going for breakfast with Bryan and Ian. Bryan’s sister’s visiting and it’s her last weekend before she moves to Portland. I have to be there,” Ross explained and relief flooded Parker. He knew Ross was telling the truth. Ross’ head snapped back and he smiled. “Why don’t you come with me?” He asked and Parker started to nod as his eyes went to the clock. His heart sunk.
“Shit. I almost forgot,” he complained. “I can’t. My department is meeting for lunch at 11:00.” Parker rubbed the back of his neck and shook his head. “I can’t cancel. I’ve missed the last few because I was feeling sorry for myself. I promised I’d go today. I didn’t realize how late it was.” Parker saw Ross’ lips tilt and he shrugged.
“Fine. Then, I’ll see you tonight,” he declared and warmth burst in Parker’s chest. “I want to take you out to dinner. When can I pick you up?” Ross asked before he lowered his head and nibbled at Parker’s lips.
“I can be ready whenever,” Parker mumbled as he pulled Ross closer.
“I’ll make reservations and let you know.” His tongue slid along the seam of Parker’s lips and he angled his head as his tongue slipped between Parker’s lips.
The second date goes very well…
“Is this alright?” Ross asked as he held the door open and Parker slid his hand around Ross’ back as he passed.
“This is great. I love The Ivy Inn,” Parker assured Ross before he turned to the hostess.
They were shown to their table and Ross looked unsure about where to sit. Parker waited until Ross sat and pulled his chair closer before sitting.
“Is this ok, or would you rather I moved back?” He asked and Ross shook his head and blushed. Parker loved how nervous Ross was. It made him feel less like a geek for being such a mess.
“That’s perfect,” Ross said as he covered Parker’s hand with his. “I wasn’t sure if you would be comfortable with us looking so obvious,” he explained and Parker shrugged.
“I have nothing to hide and I certainly wouldn’t mind someone I know seeing me on a date with a seriously hot guy.” He winked as he leaned closer and Ross shook his head.
“Unfortunately, you’re stuck with me for the night.” His grin was crooked and Parker rolled his eyes. “As long as you’re comfortable. You’re the one that lives and works here,” Ross said before he looked up and smiled at the waitress. He ordered a beer and Parker asked for a cape cod. “I’d like to start with the shrimp and grits and then the bison hanger steak, please.” Ross’ bashful smile flustered the waitress and she tried to cover it with a cough before she turned to Parker.
“The fig toasts and the quail, please,” he said and she blushed as she took his menu. Parker kept a straight face until she left then he laughed softly as he looked back at Ross. “Poor kid,” Parker said as he placed his hand on Ross’ thigh, under the table. Ross tilted his head and Parker felt his breath against his cheek.
“Marissa said that it’s practically impossible for women to look at an attractive gay couple and not imagine them having sex. She says that it’s a huge turn-on for some straight women,” Ross explained and Parker nodded thoughtfully as he watched their waitress take an older couple’s order. She looked completely composed and competent. He bit his lip as his hand drifted higher, toward Ross’ groin.
“I guess I can’t blame her. If she’s imagining anything close to what happened last night and this morning…” Parker let his fingernails drag down Ross’ thigh. Ross shifted in his seat and Parker heard a very weak groan rattle in Ross’ throat. He swallowed loudly before he took a long sip of beer.
“If you keep that up, I’m going to have to find an excuse to carry this table out of the restaurant when we leave,” Ross murmured. Parker wasn’t sure what had gotten into him but his hand glided slowly back up Ross’ thigh. Ross’ eyes got wider, the closer Parker’s hand got to his erection and they felt like they might fall out of his head when Parker wrapped his hand around the bulge in Ross’ trousers. “Please don’t make me have to orchestrate an accident to cover a stain on the front of my pants,” he whispered and Parker felt his own getting tighter.
“I’m sure it would take a lot more than this,” Parker said under his breath as his hand slid up and down Ross’ length. Ross swallowed and shook his head.
“With you? Not really,” he admitted and Parker stifled a shiver of excitement. “If you don’t behave, we won’t make it through dinner,” Ross warned.
“You know, you didn’t have to take me out. I would have given it up,” Parker teased and Ross narrowed his eyes at him.
“I’m hoping you’re not just pretty and easy,” he murmured. Parker’s jaw fell and Ross laughed as he leaned close. His lips brushed against Parker’s ear and he suddenly felt overdressed as heat swept through him. “I like that you’re easy but I want to learn more about you. And your voice drives me crazy.” Ross’ eyes were dark and deep when they found Parker’s. “Talk to me, Parker. You could tell me just about anything and I won’t be able to stop thinking about getting you naked.” Ross reached for his beer and Parker squeezed his thigh, mostly because he had to grab onto something to keep from sliding out of his chair and onto the floor into a puddle of sexually frustrated man.
Parker did his best to engage Ross and keep the conversation flowing. Ross’ eyes were constantly flicking over Parker’s face and watching his hands as he talked and ate. Parker felt like he was being studied and analyzed. Every now and then, Ross’ fingers would caress Parker’s as they rested on table, as if Ross needed to maintain contact. Once again, Parker was impressed by Ross’ intelligence and the wide range of topics he could discuss with confidence. As they shared the trio of creme brûlées, Parker decided that Ross’ body, crooked cocky grin and chiseled face weren’t his sexiest features.
“I think it would be a good idea for us to get out of here. Now,” Parker warned as he licked his spoon clean. Ross’ eyes clung to Parker’s mouth as he pulled his wallet out. He opened it and his eyes glanced quickly as he removed a generous amount of cash.
“Let’s go,” Ross growled as he tossed the money on the table and stood up. Parker nodded and laughed when Ross’ hand closed around his wrist and almost pulled him off his feet as he dashed toward the exit. They were almost to the door when Parker looked over his shoulder and saw their waitress staring longingly as she watched them go. He offered a sheepish grin and she turned bright red.
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Of course, our hero is old-fashioned and needs a little convincing. And sometimes, our friends know what we need better than we do, though we may not see it at first.
“We’re tired of waiting for you to do something about your nonexistent love life, Ross,” Ian declared and Ross eyed him warily.
“I swear to God, if you’ve set this up as a blind date and someone else is about to show up, I’m leaving,” Ross promised and Bryan laughed.
“Relax. No one does that anymore. We live in amazing times, my friend.” Bryan giggled and Ross’ head pulled back in shock. Bryan was reserved and sensible. Knowing that he’d agreed to whatever Ian was up to and had actually giggled was a bit jarring for Ross.
“Et tu, Brute?” Ross asked as he raised a brow at Bryan. He only shrugged.
“Look. It’s time you found someone. Or had a little fun. You come up on your free weekends and maybe have a few beers before you crash in our guest room. I’ve never seen you so much as flirt, let alone hook up with anyone.” Bryan paused to sip his beer and Ross’ lips pulled tight as he looked around the bar, hoping for a way out of the conversation. It was fine, accepting that he wanted to find someone and that he was lonely but discussing it with his two, very happily ever after-ed best friends was making Ross anxious and his mood was turning. He was about to tell them to mind their own business when Ian reached for his hand.
“We love having you here and you’re always welcome but now and then, it would be nice to be able to have sex with you in the house and not worry that we’re going to wake up the monk.” Ian laughed when Ross’ eyes grew wide and he fell back in his seat.
“I’m not a monk,” he argued and Ian gave him an impatient look.
“Please. You barely drink and you disapprove of everything. I’ve started to doubt that you’re even gay. You know, gay men have sex with other gay men,” Ian pointed out and Ross glared at him.
“I’ve had sex,” Ross mumbled as he raised his glass to his lips and took a long drink. A few times, Ross admitted. “Just because I never had a whore phase doesn’t make me a monk.” He gave Ian an accusing look and Bryan laughed.
“It’s time you had a whore phase, Ross,” Bryan announced and Ross frowned and shook his head. Before he could argue Bryan gave him a pointed look. “It’s for your own good. In a few years, you’ll be too old and no one will want you. You’re already too cranky. We put you on Grindr and you’re meeting someone tonight.” Bryan smiled wickedly and Ross felt a tickle of panic. He wasn’t old in general but he was too old for Grindr and from what he heard, Grindr moved a lot faster than he was comfortable with. He shook his head again.
“I’m not doing that. Besides, having that on my phone could be bad for my clearance. I’ve still got a job,” he argued and Bryan shrugged as he pulled out his phone.
“We knew you’d say that. So, we made an account for you on my phone. All we need to do is fire it up and see who’s in the vicinity.” Bryan winked and looked down at his phone. Ross looked at the door and considered fleeing as his shirt started to cling to his chest and back.
“How could you?” He complained as he shifted uncomfortably. The last thing Ross wanted was to be forced into meeting some horny college kid for something that would end in rejection or Ross feeling sleazy. Ian snorted as he watched over Bryan’s shoulder.
“It was pretty easy. We used the picture I took of you at the lake a few weeks ago, cropped your head out of it and plugged in a little info,” Ian explained and his eyes lit up. “Oh! Look at that one!” His eyes got even bigger and Bryan nodded. “Oh, shit!” Ian whispered and Ross clenched his jaw as curiosity stirred. Bryan smiled as he swiped.
“We’re definitely interested,” he announced and Ross’ mouth fell open and he reached across the table.
“What do you mean We’re?” He asked as he snatched the phone from Bryan. Oh, shit, indeed. Ross could only stare longingly at the picture. A sculpted chest and abs, rich latte skin and a very large and detailed bulge hardly concealed by grey cotton made Ross’ body tighten and the room was starting to feel too warm. He shook his head as he passed the phone back to Bryan. “It’s never going to happen. That guy isn’t looking for someone like me,” Ross argued. “What does DTF mean?” He asked and Ian threw his head back and laughed.
“Baby, it means Down To Fuck. This is exactly why you need to be on here.” Ian took Bryan’s phone and began to read. “Ha! It says he’s a professional and looking for someone over thirty with a ‘similar lifestyle’. He don’t got time for poor, young college boys,” Ian sang as he typed. Ross threw Bryan an accusatory glare.
“I can’t believe you went along with this. And a guy like that is not going to be interested in me.” Ross resisted the urge to grab the phone again. He wouldn’t mind staring at the picture for the rest of the evening. Hell, he could do a lot with that picture after a few beers and a little privacy. Ian started to bounce excitedly.
“He replied!” Ian gasped and he leaned back, out of Ross’ reach when his hand shot across the table.
“What are you doing?” Ross knew he sounded terrified. He was. Ian turned, taking the phone further out of Ross’ reach as he continued to type.
“He’s going to meet you here. Says he was about to pass right by anyway and he doesn’t have any other plans.” Ian squealed and Bryan’s head tilted as he read over Ian’s shoulder.
“You’ve got about five minutes,” Bryan informed him and Ross started to shake his head frantically.
“No, no, no, no, no!” He whined as he pushed a hand through his hair. “I can’t do this! I can’t meet some random, slutty guy.” Ross hated that his face was probably turning red. The strong flight instinct that had served him so well was screaming for him to run way. Bryan pointed across the table and gave him a hard stare.
“Listen to me, Ross.” He was suddenly serious and Ross almost nodded. “You’re going to sit at that table and have a drink with a ridiculously hot guy. It doesn’t have to be more than that. Just do something for once. You’re not happy and we’re tired of waiting for you to realize that and do something about it. You’re a great guy and you deserve more than a sad little house and moping around here on the weekends.” Bryan waited while Ross digested his statement.
“I don’t mope,” Ross mumbled and Ian nodded.
“You do. All you have is work. When you aren’t with the team, you spend your weekends doing our chores because you want what we have. It’s time for you to get your own life.” Ian squeezed Ross’ hand encouragingly.
“If you’re tired of me, you should have just said so,” Ross teased and Ian rolled his eyes.
“Shut up. We’re not tired of you. We love you. And we’d both feel better if you at least got laid,” he said as his head jerked toward the empty table by the window. “Go over there and try not to be boring.” Ian winked and Ross slouched.
“Fine. I’ll have a beer but I’m not having a one night stand.” He scrubbed a hand over his face and groaned. “This is going to be a train wreck,” Ross predicted before he got up and went to the other table.
Oh, the morning after…
“This is good.” Ross said as he raised his mug and Parker nodded as he tried to find something to keep the silence from getting awkward.
“So, do you want some breakfast? I don’t really have anything here so we’d have to go out. I’m not much of a cook,” Parker admitted and Ross chuckled as he stared into his mug.
“I don’t cook either,” he said softly before he cringed. “I’d love to go get breakfast with you but I can’t.” Ross looked up at Parker apologetically and disappointment swelled.
“That’s cool. I’ll give you my number, you can call me if you want.” Parker chewed on his lip and tried to look relaxed as he stared into his coffee. When he looked up, Ross’ head was cocked and his brows were pulled together as he stared at Parker.
“If I want?” Ross asked slowly and Parker nodded. Ross set his mug down and reached for Parker. “I’m definitely going to call. I don’t want to go, Parker.” His voice was deep and velvety as he wrapped his arms around Parker. “I’m going for breakfast with Bryan and Ian. Bryan’s sister’s visiting and it’s her last weekend before she moves to Portland. I have to be there,” Ross explained and relief flooded Parker. He knew Ross was telling the truth. Ross’ head snapped back and he smiled. “Why don’t you come with me?” He asked and Parker started to nod as his eyes went to the clock. His heart sunk.
“Shit. I almost forgot,” he complained. “I can’t. My department is meeting for lunch at 11:00.” Parker rubbed the back of his neck and shook his head. “I can’t cancel. I’ve missed the last few because I was feeling sorry for myself. I promised I’d go today. I didn’t realize how late it was.” Parker saw Ross’ lips tilt and he shrugged.
“Fine. Then, I’ll see you tonight,” he declared and warmth burst in Parker’s chest. “I want to take you out to dinner. When can I pick you up?” Ross asked before he lowered his head and nibbled at Parker’s lips.
“I can be ready whenever,” Parker mumbled as he pulled Ross closer.
“I’ll make reservations and let you know.” His tongue slid along the seam of Parker’s lips and he angled his head as his tongue slipped between Parker’s lips.
The second date goes very well…
“Is this alright?” Ross asked as he held the door open and Parker slid his hand around Ross’ back as he passed.
“This is great. I love The Ivy Inn,” Parker assured Ross before he turned to the hostess.
They were shown to their table and Ross looked unsure about where to sit. Parker waited until Ross sat and pulled his chair closer before sitting.
“Is this ok, or would you rather I moved back?” He asked and Ross shook his head and blushed. Parker loved how nervous Ross was. It made him feel less like a geek for being such a mess.
“That’s perfect,” Ross said as he covered Parker’s hand with his. “I wasn’t sure if you would be comfortable with us looking so obvious,” he explained and Parker shrugged.
“I have nothing to hide and I certainly wouldn’t mind someone I know seeing me on a date with a seriously hot guy.” He winked as he leaned closer and Ross shook his head.
“Unfortunately, you’re stuck with me for the night.” His grin was crooked and Parker rolled his eyes. “As long as you’re comfortable. You’re the one that lives and works here,” Ross said before he looked up and smiled at the waitress. He ordered a beer and Parker asked for a cape cod. “I’d like to start with the shrimp and grits and then the bison hanger steak, please.” Ross’ bashful smile flustered the waitress and she tried to cover it with a cough before she turned to Parker.
“The fig toasts and the quail, please,” he said and she blushed as she took his menu. Parker kept a straight face until she left then he laughed softly as he looked back at Ross. “Poor kid,” Parker said as he placed his hand on Ross’ thigh, under the table. Ross tilted his head and Parker felt his breath against his cheek.
“Marissa said that it’s practically impossible for women to look at an attractive gay couple and not imagine them having sex. She says that it’s a huge turn-on for some straight women,” Ross explained and Parker nodded thoughtfully as he watched their waitress take an older couple’s order. She looked completely composed and competent. He bit his lip as his hand drifted higher, toward Ross’ groin.
“I guess I can’t blame her. If she’s imagining anything close to what happened last night and this morning…” Parker let his fingernails drag down Ross’ thigh. Ross shifted in his seat and Parker heard a very weak groan rattle in Ross’ throat. He swallowed loudly before he took a long sip of beer.
“If you keep that up, I’m going to have to find an excuse to carry this table out of the restaurant when we leave,” Ross murmured. Parker wasn’t sure what had gotten into him but his hand glided slowly back up Ross’ thigh. Ross’ eyes got wider, the closer Parker’s hand got to his erection and they felt like they might fall out of his head when Parker wrapped his hand around the bulge in Ross’ trousers. “Please don’t make me have to orchestrate an accident to cover a stain on the front of my pants,” he whispered and Parker felt his own getting tighter.
“I’m sure it would take a lot more than this,” Parker said under his breath as his hand slid up and down Ross’ length. Ross swallowed and shook his head.
“With you? Not really,” he admitted and Parker stifled a shiver of excitement. “If you don’t behave, we won’t make it through dinner,” Ross warned.
“You know, you didn’t have to take me out. I would have given it up,” Parker teased and Ross narrowed his eyes at him.
“I’m hoping you’re not just pretty and easy,” he murmured. Parker’s jaw fell and Ross laughed as he leaned close. His lips brushed against Parker’s ear and he suddenly felt overdressed as heat swept through him. “I like that you’re easy but I want to learn more about you. And your voice drives me crazy.” Ross’ eyes were dark and deep when they found Parker’s. “Talk to me, Parker. You could tell me just about anything and I won’t be able to stop thinking about getting you naked.” Ross reached for his beer and Parker squeezed his thigh, mostly because he had to grab onto something to keep from sliding out of his chair and onto the floor into a puddle of sexually frustrated man.
Parker did his best to engage Ross and keep the conversation flowing. Ross’ eyes were constantly flicking over Parker’s face and watching his hands as he talked and ate. Parker felt like he was being studied and analyzed. Every now and then, Ross’ fingers would caress Parker’s as they rested on table, as if Ross needed to maintain contact. Once again, Parker was impressed by Ross’ intelligence and the wide range of topics he could discuss with confidence. As they shared the trio of creme brûlées, Parker decided that Ross’ body, crooked cocky grin and chiseled face weren’t his sexiest features.
“I think it would be a good idea for us to get out of here. Now,” Parker warned as he licked his spoon clean. Ross’ eyes clung to Parker’s mouth as he pulled his wallet out. He opened it and his eyes glanced quickly as he removed a generous amount of cash.
“Let’s go,” Ross growled as he tossed the money on the table and stood up. Parker nodded and laughed when Ross’ hand closed around his wrist and almost pulled him off his feet as he dashed toward the exit. They were almost to the door when Parker looked over his shoulder and saw their waitress staring longingly as she watched them go. He offered a sheepish grin and she turned bright red.
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