Chapter 59

Nick sat in a chair in the corner of the small main room near a fireplace, pulled his knees up, hooked his heels on the chair edge, and wrapped his arms around his legs, hugging them close to his chest.

Todd glanced over at him, not missing how Nick rocked slightly, scrunching his eyes shut and prying them open after a few deep breaths over and over. Unable to watch any longer, Todd went to the kitchen, ran water and splashed it on his face, then leaned heavily against the counter.

Witze came in and leaned against the counter, facing the opposite direction so he could watch Nick and Adam in the other room. He handed Todd a glass of whiskey.

“Thought you might like this.”

Todd straightened, took the glass, but didn’t drink. “Thanks.” He stared at the small mural painted on the wall over the sink. “In the two or so years Nick and I have been together, he’s spent most of his waking hours telling me something.”

“Maybe he just needs a little time or is waiting until you’re alone.”