The world was warm and cozy as Jack awoke. The arms wrapped around him were unfamiliar, and it took him a moment to realize what was going on. He lifted his head off Kieran's chest and stared at his relaxed features. He was used to waking up confused, but the position was new. He ran over the events of the night before.
He remembered the bathroom, showering, a couple movies, and cuddling against Kieran. Something else was there. He concentrated on the memory, trying to piece it together into something coherent. But, like a dream, the harder he focused on it, the less of it remained. All that was left was a sense that Kieran would take care of him.
Definitely a dream.
He looked over the back of the couch. He could just make out the time on the microwave in the kitchen. It was five in the morning. Sam would probably be available. He turned to look where Kieran's phone rested on the coffee table.
He could easily call Sam with or without Kieran's help. Or, he could go back to sleep and selfishly pretend things were going right for once.
He sighed and rested his head back on Kieran's chest and smiled to himself. Mister Stranger Danger wasn't so bad; he was kind and considerate. Depending on what Kieran was interested in, Jack could get used to this. So what if the guy gave off a distinctly creepy vibe? It was probably from all the antiques that surrounded him. As Candace would say, their collective energies rubbed off on him, making him seem older than he actually was.
Jack closed his eyes and drifted back to sleep.
---
The next time Jack woke up, it was to his hair being softly stroked. He pressed further into Kieran's chest.
"Time to wake up, sweet thing," Kieran said and kissed the top of Jack's head.
"'m not that sweet," Jack mumbled.
"Oh, I think you are, my sweet siren."
Jack frowned and pushed himself up. His stomach dropped at the sight of a damp patch on Kieran's shirt where his mouth had been. "Don't think I'm much of a sweet anything," he mumbled, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. He waited for the disgust and harsh words. It was always better to take it than argue or justify it. Less pain, less…
If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it's taken without the author's consent. Report it.
Kieran sat up and stretched. "You think too little of yourself."
"Yeah, I'll get right on that." Jack looked up and quickly regretted it. He'd been on the receiving end of disappointment enough times to recognize it. This time, however, he didn't want to be a disappointment. Not when it also held a bit of worry.
But he didn't want to bail just yet. He wanted to work on whatever this fragile thing between them was. Even if Kieran said his reasons for pursuing Jack were selfish, that was basic human nature. A pretty face, companionship, a good time… Jack wanted it all, but with stipulations that had most dismissing him the moment they found out.
He looked away and ran his fingers along the sleeve of his borrowed pajamas. "I should probably call Sam. Let him know I'm not dead or something."
Kieran retrieved his cell phone from the coffee table and held it out to Jack. "Of course. Call your friend and let him know I have yet to chain you up in my basement."
Jack stiffened, his hand freezing partway to reach for the phone. He flinched as Kieran gently touched his shoulder.
"I'm sorry. I suppose that was in poor taste."
"No, I… I mean, I started it. It's a me thing. Please don't make a big deal out of it," he said as he grabbed the phone. It was just a joke. A joke he would make himself.
"As if it never happened. I'll get your clothes."
Jack nodded and dialed Sam's number as Kieran left.
"Fairchild."
"Hey, uh… I'm still alive. No fishing me out of a river for you." He winced and hoped Kieran wasn't in range to hear. He should stop acting like a hypocritical asshole.
"Eight in the morning. I believe this is a new record."
"Yeah, you're hilarious." He looked up as Kieran returned. He smiled gratefully as his clothing was set on the couch's armrest. "Anyway, I'm ready for a pick up if you're able."
"I have some time. Where are you?"
"520 North Mariners. That brick building across the street from Rick's Electronics. The storefront finally matches the creepy vibe." His eyes darted to Kieran. He didn't look offended over the description, judging by the small smile. "So, yeah. I'll be here. There. Out front."
"I'll unlock the store," Kieran said as he passed, lightly stroking Jack's shoulder. "It's drizzling."
"Oh. He's gonna have the store open, so come on in?"
image [https://i.imgur.com/eZY0YUq.png]