Chapter 13

“I’m being ridiculous,” Michael says, petting the puppy carefully.

Daniel frowns. “Explain.”

“I know we’ve both had relationships. I’m only a little jealous of the people who got to be with you, but I don’t like the idea that you did this with them. I want us to be special,” Michael half mumbles, stroking behind the pup’s ears.

Daniel gets in Michael’s space and pets the dog too. “You’ll always be special. Even if this doesn’t work out, which I really hope it can, you’d be special.”

Michael’s fingers brush his as they pet the wiggling warm ball of energy and fur in Michael’s arms. “I’ve never been the jealous type. I’m not that guy who checks text messages and times how long it takes you to get home. I want you to know that, Danny. I might be acting like a bit of a fool over seeing you again, but I won’t hurt you. I hate enough that I hurt you by leaving.”