Chapter 2

Ethan increased the pace, making Alex’s eyes flutter closed before he seemed to realize what he was doing then opened them at once.

“Good,” Ethan purred. He didn’t say anything more, simply concentrating on his lover’s pleasure.

Alex arched and met his next powerful manipulation, and shouted as orgasm overpowered him. He was reduced to gasps and shudders. His hands clenched the sheet so tightly his knuckles went white. Ethan pulled at the slowly softening shaft, milked the last of Alex’s essence, and lowered himself to lie down beside his boyfriend.

He hadn’t taken care of himself nor did he ask Alex to, but somehow it seemed enough now just to see the bliss on Alex’s face. Alex had kept his unspoken promise. He’d kept his eyes open when he reached his peak, other than, perhaps, when he shouted wildly. Ethan had almost drowned in those compelling green eyes that shone with nothing but deep passion toward him. He gathered Alex into his arms.

He sighed in contentment. This must be enough. This love he had and Alex’s devotion to him. They had that, and they had each other. It was enough.

But something at the back of his mind began to prickle.

* * * *

They didn’t leave their room until breakfast time was long past. Clad in loose pullovers, both men were joking and pushing each other as they ran down the stairs. Alex was still giddy at what he’d managed to do before they decided to join Ethan’s family in the kitchen. At first Ethan had resisted Alex’s efforts to please him in turn, but Alex wouldn’t take no for an answer. He’d immediately slid down between Ethan’s legs and wasted no time teasing Ethan. It was obvious that Ethan couldn’t hide his eagerness. Alex had taken him gently into his mouth, and Ethan buried himself all the way. They both shuddered in sweet pleasure when Ethan pulsated in release.

“Boys.” Ethan’s father nodded at them as he sipped his coffee.

“You two,” Ethan’s mom greeted them, “sit down and let me fix some breakfast for you. Nice sleep?” She winked teasingly.

Alex blushed and pecked her on both cheeks. “It was. I’m so sorry we missed breakfast,” he said, sounding almost too sincere. Ethan laughed quietly behind him. Alex jabbed his elbow into Ethan’s midsection.

“Oh, that’s fine, dear. We understand. You both must have been quite wasted after last night.”

“We were.” Alex laughed and took a chair next to Ethan’s father. Ethan followed suit.

“We left the gifts for you under the tree. Oh, and that was a very lovely pashmina, Alex, thank you so much.” Ethan’s mom took his hands and, smiling, Alex kissed her lightly on her cheek again.

“I’m glad you love it, Mrs. G.”

“Do you love my gift, too, mom?” Ethan winked.

“Oh, what was that again? Did you put anything there for me?” She laughed when Ethan pouted

“Hey, don’t do that.” Alex poked him. “You know I can never stand to see you pout.”

They didn’t talk much after that, both of them busy gobbling down the delicious pancakes and syrup, poached eggs, and buttered fresh-made buns, and gulping down almost a pot of hot coffee. Alex rubbed his belly contentedly as he rose from the chair, thanking Ethan’s mom for the superb breakfast.

“Where are Aaron and Megan?” he asked.

“In the family room, I think,” she said.

The family room was one of Alex’s favorite places in this house. The flowery-patterned, overstuffed couch facing the TV set was perfect to sink yourself into. Ethan’s little sister, Megan, was sitting on one end with a laptop and Aaron, the oldest, was busy with the game console.

“Hi, guys.” Alex went to the corner where the Christmas tree was standing. He bent down to look at the remaining gifts and eyed the biggest one there. “Wow, is that for me?”

Aaron threw him a glance before turning to the TV monitor again. “Who knows?”

Alex raised his eyebrows, thinking of what he should say, when Ethan grabbed him from behind, almost toppling him over in the process.

“Hey, don’t start without me.” Ethan laughed, pulled Alex up by his shoulders, and kissed his lips. Alex could see Megan roll her eyes. He shrugged, smiling resignedly.

Ethan took the big present and handed it to Alex.

“Yup, it’s yours.”

What the hell. From the shape it looked like…

“A guitar!” Alex cried in surprise as he tore apart the wrapping paper to reveal a dark leather case that opened to a beautiful electric guitar. He had to sit down and hug the gleaming instrument. “Wow, Ethan, I never thought—thank you very much!”

“You like it?” Ethan smiled.