As his head started to turn that way, Xavier appeared at his side. He kneeled, speaking close to Dean’s ear. “Will you stay after the show?”
Dean fought the urge to meet Xavier’s stare. If he knew nothing else, Dean knew he couldn’t show any enthusiasm over having Xavier’s attention. Xavier had legions of men and women falling at his feet. Dean had no desire to add his name to that list. He tried to keep his voice free of emotion. “I don’t know. Is there a reason you’re asking?”
Xavier touched his jaw, urging Dean’s gaze his way. The moment Dean focused on Xavier’s gorgeous eyes, Xavier gave him the most heated look Dean had ever seen. “You know there is.”
Dean swallowed. He had no idea how to stand against someone like Xavier, but he had to find a way. Xavier was the kind of man who chewed men up and spit them out. Someone like Dean could never hold his attention.
“Xavier, it’s time to get started.”
Dean fought a wave of relief as Xavier left him alone. That didn’t stop his eyes from locking on to the man’s sexy bare ass as he crossed the room.
“Completely hairless. Should’ve known,” Peggy said against his ear. Dean covered his mouth, fighting a smile. She didn’t quit. “He is a sexy one, though. Goddamn. Ten bucks says he likes it rough.”
“He’s conceited as fuck,” Dean whispered back, incapable of stopping himself.
“Mhmm. With a body like that, I don’t doubt it, but he still can’t take his eyes off you. You only live once, kiddo. There’s nothing wrong with a little fun.”
“Maybe.” That was the best Dean could do. He had a feeling Xavier’s fun would lead to uncontrollable longing. Dean just couldn’t see any scenario where one night with Xavier would be enough. Xavier was rich, famous, and sexy. Dean already knew he would want to keep him if he touched him. He was a greedy person. Needing his way had already lost Brett their parents. Dean had to stay disciplined. He wanted things too hard. Xavier was no exception. That was why he had to stay away.
Brett couldn’t stop smiling. Roman’s mom had come into town for a visit two days earlier, coming to watch Roman’s third guest spot on Xavier’s show. She was a nut and he adored her, but she wasn’t the only reason his happiness level was off the charts. Roman always looked like he belonged on Xavier’s show. Brett wanted Roman to be happy in L.A. As promised, they had started looking for a club where they could explore Brett’s newfound exhibitionist and voyeuristic tendencies. He had also handed over his social media handling to Roman, since he was a natural and needed something to keep him busy. The last couple of months had been amazing. Sometimes, Brett had sudden panic attacks when the fear of losing Roman would strike from nowhere. Even with everything he had worked for, Brett never had so much to lose since falling in love with Roman. Their life together was the most beautiful thing he had ever experienced. He genuinely hoped Xavier’s third invite meant he might be considering bringing Roman on as a full-time cohost. Every little tie Roman made to this town was another reason for Roman to stay. Brett still didn’t think he was enough incentive to stay. He stewed over his thoughts for so long, he missed a majority of the show.
“We saved a special treat for last,” Xavier said, making Brett realize exactly how long he had been lost in his thoughts. “As you all know, we use a lot of TV magic on the show by cooking food in advance so we can show you every step in a timely manner. This final delicacy is different. While it was prepared in advance, it wasn’t done so for TV illusions, but another enchanting piece of wonder.” Xavier opened the refrigerator and took out a small cake box. He passed it Roman’s way. “I believe this is your part.”
Roman glanced down at the cake and chuckled. He showed the cake to the camera. Brett had to look at a nearby screen out of camera view to read the cake. He covered his mouth to hold in his happiness. “Will you be my cohost?” was written in cursive on top.
With a smile, Roman sat the cake aside. “I tell you what, Xavier, I’ll give you my answer after I get mine.” He turned around and opened the fridge, pulling out another cake.
“Oh, lord, my baby is showing his booty.”
Everyone laughed at Peggy’s interruption. Brett thought she had been pretty damn well-behaved up until this moment, considering her bubbly no-fucks-given personality.
The camera followed Roman as he headed Brett’s way. He spoke to the camera, as if talking to his audience as he crossed the room. “People don’t usually see behind the cameras, but I have some special people here with me today. My mom, Peggy, is here. So is my gorgeous boyfriend, Brett. Brett’s brother, Dean is hanging out with us too. I asked all of them to be here today for a reason.”
Brett’s confusion skyrocketed. Xavier had been the one to issue invitations to everyone, or so he had thought. Then Roman handed Brett the cake. Brett stared down at the white confection, blinking at the sight. There was nothing written on the cake this time. Instead, a diamond and platinum ring sat upright—like the cake served as a ring box. Roman dropped to one knee. Peggy squealed, nearly rupturing his eardrum. Only the shock kept him from reacting.
“What do you say, beautiful? Will you make an honest man out of me?”
“Boy, that’ll take some work,” Peggy said, bringing Brett back to life, pulling him from his shock.
He nodded, trying to find his voice. “Yes. Every day of the week. Yes.”
Peggy squealed again. This time, he definitely lost some hearing. He heard the congratulations from Dean, Xavier, and the crew, but Brett couldn’t see anyone except Roman. This amazing man really wanted to marry him. He had planned this and gotten down on one knee. Brett was more than humbled. He thought he might cry. His throat burned. He couldn’t stop stroking Roman’s face.
“I love you so much.”
Roman gathered him in his arms. “Don’t cry, baby. I love you too.”
Brett was too moved to be embarrassed as he buried his face against the crook of Roman’s neck.
“This was really sweet, baby doll, but you could’ve worn some pants.”
Brett choked on a mixture of tears and laughter at Peggy’s claim. “It was perfect. I love your naked booty,” Brett whispered against Roman’s skin.
With a laugh, Roman held him tighter. He had never dreamed this could be his life. If he had, he never would have pictured himself ending up with Roman. He couldn’t have predicted this tremendous love that came from nowhere and consumed him. But Brett wouldn’t give this up. Not now. Not ever. Somehow, he had stolen Roman’s heart. Brett would never give it back. They were forever. No take backs.
Keep an eye out for the next Candied Crush, Beautifully Moved.
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