Chapter 26

He nervously licked his lips and adjusted his shirt and the waist of his track pants while trying to gain some time and give a meaningful answer, which would be plausible and not scare either of them.

“I was tired and…I needed a quiet night. That’s all.” He risked glancing at Elias. “Disappointed?”

Elias shook his head. “No. Puzzled. Usually people aren’t interested in spending time with me just to watch a movie. Or just to chat. But I guess you’re the first.”

Those words were pronounced in a soft tone, but they seemed heavier than stone to Thomas.

“Ah, well…I like spending time with you.”

Shut up. You shut up.

Elias’s gaze jerked to him, and there was no way for Thomas not to notice the little light of surprise mixed with happiness that for a second illuminated his dark eyes.

Shit. I told you to shut up.

For a moment, they stayed still, silently looking at each other.

“Can you stay a little longer, or do you have to go home?”

Elias shrugged. “I still have some time.”