Chapter 8

Michael grabs his arm, gently but quickly. He lets go when Daniel stops walking. “Can we talk, please? Give me five minutes away from everyone.”

Daniel thinks he might regret it, but he’s curious despite himself, so he nods.

They take one of the paths away from the large clearing housing the solstice party and walk till they find a more private clump of grass. Feeling awkward and his back aching, Daniel sits down against a tree, using the trunk as some support. Michael sits down too but leaves a decent gap between them.

“I need to apologize,” Michael starts.

Daniel wasn’t expecting that. “Go on then.” He’s still angry and hurt. He’s not going to just roll over because his hormones still want Michael.