Boyfriend Emergency

Rheland Richmond

Copyright © 2019 Rheland Richmond

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and events are a product of the author’s imagination. Any similarities to actual persons, living or dead, is pure coincidence. As are any similarities to any businesses, events or locations.

All products and brand names mentioned are registered trademarks of their respective holder and or company. I do not own the rights to these, nor do I claim to.

Edited by: Ann Attwood Editing and Proofreading Service

Proofreading: Alphabitz Editing

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Contents

1. Carter

2. Rafe

3. Carter

4. Rafe

5. Carter

6. Rafe

Epilogue

About the Author

Also by Rheland Richmond

1

Carter

“Keep it coming please,” Carter said to the bartender—although in this setting maybe he was a sommelier. He sighed and stared into the glass of wine on the bar. Was it too early to switch to something stronger?

Carter figured since he was in wine country, drinking a glass of wine or six before dinner time wouldn’t make him feel like a lush. Even though, right now, he wished that he was anywhere but here.

Carter had spent the better part of his day ducking his ex-fiancé Adrian. They were in Sonoma wine country in a gorgeous resort, and he couldn’t even relax enough to have a good time… although, granted, a doctor’s conference for Medicare and Medicaid, among other things, wasn’t exactly Hawaii at sunset… but still...

Why the hell was Adrian here... okay, so he knew why. It was a conference for doctors, which they both were, but that wasn’t all that had him on edge. He was also here with his new boy toy. Carter hated using that term, but he honestly couldn’t think of a better word to describe the barely twenty-five-year-old that Adrian was dating now. He was an Instagram and YouTube fitness model… yeah, that was actually his job.

Okay, so he knew that a lot of the successful YouTube personalities earned in the millions, but it didn’t help take the sting out of the fact that Adrian had dumped him almost five months to their wedding day.

“Here you go, sir,” the bartender said, pulling him out of his thoughts.

When Carter faced the bartender, the man had a smile on his face that he was old enough to recognize—clearly signals of interest were being directed his way. Carter couldn’t help taking in the man as he stood there holding the glass of wine. He was attractive in that boy next door kind of way, and he hadn’t missed the hints of flirtation that he’d been throwing Carter’s way. Maybe that was what he needed, to get on top of—or under—the hot bartender. It wasn’t like Adrian hadn’t been having sex.

Yeah, even before he called things off, a voice whispered.

Carter took the glass of red wine, letting his finger graze the bartender’s as he did. Their eyes met and the look in them said he hadn’t been wrong. He glanced down at the name tag, “Jacob.”

The man’s smile widened, and Carter realized he’d said his name out loud. He held the bartender’s gaze, but then a waitress walked up and placed a tray on the bar while rattling off orders. Jacob held his gaze for a moment before winking and moving away.

At least you know if you want to drink and fuck your melancholy away you have an option.

That definitely wasn’t his style, though. In the months since Adrian had called off their wedding, he’d been on a couple of dates that had ended poorly—mostly because of him—it had been Carter, his hand, and sometimes his trusty dildo.

Maybe he should have packed it… wasn’t like he would have had to go through airport security since he’d opted to drive up from Los Angeles.

He took a sip of his drink and didn’t even bother savoring the taste of the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, and that had been an excellent year.

Carter drew in a deep breath and decided to take in everything. He’d basically been skulking around trying to play the invisible man since he’d arrived two days before and spotted Adrian in the lobby about to check in.

He looked off to his left, not really searching for anyone, simply taking everything in. The bar was crowded with people, most of them huddled up in small groups chatting amongst themselves.

They all seemed to be having a good time, unlike him.

Whose fault is that? No one is forcing you to play spectator.

Okay, so that was true. But the fact of the matter was, there were some people here he’d been avoiding since he’d cancelled the wedding, or rather called to inform that the wedding was cancelled.

“Carter?” a voice he recognized all too well said from his right. He cringed at the sound of his name, refusing to turn around.

Fuck. He realized the moment was here... what he’d been trying to avoid had finally caught up with him.

“Carter?” He heard again. Carter contemplated rushing off in the opposite direction, or even faking a phone call… or maybe a heart attack, although the latter in a room full of doctors wouldn’t work. Not only would it be awkward, but then it would draw attention to him and the looks of pity would commence.

It had barely stopped at the hospitals where Carter had privileges.

Carter took a deep breath, then took another sip of wine, wishing all over again that it was hard liquor. He braced himself and turned around slowly.

“Adrian.” He pasted a fake smile on his face as their eyes met.

Carter may have cursed Adrian and the day he met him, but as he laid eyes on his ex, it hit him all over again just how good-looking he was. Why couldn’t it have been a case of now that they were broken up, he suddenly realized the man wasn’t as hot as he thought he was? But nope. With his broad shoulders and dirty-blond hair that he tended to let grow a little long, and those sharp blue eyes, he was more surfer than surgeon.

Just as he took all that in, his guest… boyfriend… person walked up beside him. Fuck, the boy… man—he wasn’t even sure what to call him—had cheekbones that looked like they’d been carved from marble, and he was lean and long with sparkling chocolate-brown eyes that were enhanced with mascara and gorgeous tanned skin. He slipped his hand into Adrian’s, and Carter’s eyes followed the movement.

He swallowed, his chest suddenly tight. Carter was doing his best not to let Adrian’s presence get to him, but he was close to screaming.

“I’m surprised to see you here. I had no idea you were coming, Cart.” Hearing Adrian call him “Cart” in that way had him irritated. It was his patronizing voice… and damn it, he hated being called “Cart” like he was a buggie.

“It was a last minute decision since I was able to move things in my schedule around.” When he finished speaking, he took a large gulp of his wine. He didn’t have anything to ask Adrian, and he wasn’t about to hash out crap he’d been holding on to for all these months right now.

It was neither the time nor the place.

“You remember Taylor”—Adrian pulled him into his body—“…my boyfriend?”

Taylor smiled and reached his hand out, and even though a small, petty voice in his head was trying to tell Carter to leave him hanging, Taylor was all genuine smiles.

“Nice to meet you, Taylor. I’m Carter.” He smiled and turned around, picking up his wine glass. He would need alcohol for this situation.

Adrian started speaking and Carter completely blanked him out. He knew his ex. There were some passive-aggressive digs coming his way.

When his glass was empty, Carter flagged down the cute bartender for a refill.

“As full as you can go, please.” The bartender nodded.

He glanced in the direction of his ex and his ex’s new boyfriend, but Carter’s gaze didn’t stop on them. Instead, he scanned the room while tapping his foot, wondering how long he had to wait before excusing himself without looking like he was running away.

“So, Carter, what do you do?” Taylor’s voice had him facing them again, and he looked genuinely sincere.

For a moment, he was going to ignore the question the same as he had the last several comments made Adrian. But he searched the younger man’s face and found genuine interest and warmth in his eyes, that for some reason, had him less inclined to ignore.

Taylor chuckled. “Okay, so I know you’re a doctor, duh. This is a thing for doctors.”

Carter smiled. “Yeah, I’m a doctor. Orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine.”

“Yawn, don’t get him started, or trust me, it’ll get boring fast.” Adrian had a smile on his face as he spoke, but Carter knew what that meant. That was his way of getting Carter to stop speaking and trying to divert attention away from him.

This was one of the reasons Carter didn’t want to run into fuckin’ Adrian on this trip… or in general.

Probably why getting over the asshat had been pretty easy.

Adrian always managed to say the simplest things to get under his skin.

And don’t forget how full of himself he is.

Looking back over at Taylor, Carter said, “Thank you for asking, Taylor. I’m an orthopedic surgeon to a lot of high-profile athletes.”

“Anyone I would know?” Taylor’s eyes widened with interest.

“I shouldn’t say, but I do have a couple of Lakers, some of the Dodgers, Chargers and Angels, a couple of Olympic gymnasts, and some actors that may have been a little too enthusiastic with the stunts while shooting their movies.”

Taylor’s face was alight with interest, and he leaned towards him. “Chris Hemsworth, Michael B. Jordan… oooh any of the Avengers?”

Carter couldn’t help smiling at Taylor. Dammit, he really didn’t want to like the guy.

“Your drink, sir?” the bartender said. He turned as saw him place the glass on the counter. Thankfully he hadn’t done that half-glass crap, because Carter needed the my-day-sucked-so-pour-half-the-bottle-in-my-glass kind of pour.

“Thank you.” Carter smiled and picked up his glass.

When he faced Taylor again, the young man said, “Your job sounds so cool. I can’t imagine meeting all those people.”

Carter smiled before lifting his glass up to take a sip of his wine.

“So how do you two know each other?” Taylor looked between Adrian and Carter, then turned back to face him. “Carter, are you here with anyone? We should double for dinner.”

He felt his wine go down the wrong way and began coughing. Carter’s eyes were wide as they landed on Adrian. Before he even got a chance to answer, Adrian spoke up.

“I doubt Carter is here with someone. He doesn’t have time for anything as trivial as dating since his work always comes first. Besides, he’s always at home. Bet he hasn’t been on a date in forever.” There was a knowing smirk on Adrian’s face he wanted to punch off. “And we know each other from residency. Isn’t that right, Carter?”

His hand around the glass was so tight Carter was surprised he didn’t break it. Right as he was about to let it go and scream at Adrian, a hand pressed softly against his back, forcing him to glance over his shoulder. Standing behind him was the most gorgeous man he’d ever seen in his life, tall with warm, hazel eyes.

“Hey, love, sorry I’m late,” he said, cupping his face and placing a kiss on his lips.

Carter’s eyes widened and he froze as the gorgeous stranger’s arms went around his waist, pulling him into his broad chest. His tongue parted his lips and a hand slid down his back, resting at the arch between his spine and the curve of his ass.

That seemed to snap Carter out of his surprise—and okay, so the kiss had, uhh... mushed his brain—and he pushed away softly, separating them. The handsome newcomer backed up a little, but kept his hand on the curve of Carter’s back.

“Did I hear someone say date?” he said, then shook his head. “I should introduce myself.” He held out his hand to Adrian. “I’m Rafael, but my friends call me Rafe.”

Carter turned in the man’s arm, but for some reason didn’t step away from his chest, and he watched as Adrian’s face fell. Apparently, he was as surprised about the new development as Carter was.

He took pleasure in watching Adrian’s eyes widen as he accepted Rafe’s gesture. Dammit that was a hot name.

Carter couldn’t help rolling his eyes as he watched his ex try and make a competition out of the handshake.

“So, what do you do?” Adrian’s eyes were curious, and since Carter didn’t know the answer, he leaned to the side so he could get a look at the man’s face as he spoke. Carter could almost hear his ex, hoping that he said something he could mock. He’d been with that man for almost six years and knew how he thought.

“I’m a doctor,” Rafe said, but even as he spoke, his eyes lowered to meet Carter’s, and he felt his belly flutter.

Oh my.

Rafe’s expression was that of a man who was confident in who he was. He didn’t feel the need to qualify his statement.

“What kind of doctor?” That was Adrian again.

Carter could see he was only grilling the man because Rafe was there with him, standing by his side, his hands on… Don’t think about it Carter.

It was very much an alpha-male reaction, protecting what he felt was his. Carter couldn’t help rolling his eyes. In case Adrian had forgotten, he’d lost that right the moment he started fucking another man.

“Stop giving him the third degree.” Carter didn’t bother keeping the irritation out of his voice.

Adrian shot Carter a look. “I'm not, simply making conversation.”

“Don't you want to make conversation with Taylor? Perhaps in another bar… anywhere else.” Carter’s eyes were narrowed on his ex. Adrian shouldn’t push him. Apparently, Carter wasn’t the only one he’d lied to, and if Adrian kept pushing, he might just have to slip up and mention they were ex-fiancés.

Rafe touched Carter’s arm, and immediately Adrian’s eyes went to the action. “Darling… I don't mind answering the question,” Rafe said. When their eyes met, it was filled with such emotion, such passion; even Carter questioned what was real. Carter swallowed and had to breathe through his mouth to collect himself as Rafe responded to Adrian's question. “I'm a cardiothoracic surgeon,” he said. “Any more questions?” The challenge in his tone was unmistakable.

Adrian shook his head, and he looked like a child that had his favorite toy taken from him. He watched as Adrian glanced at his boyfriend—who he’d been ignoring since Rafe had joined them—Taylor didn’t look happy at all… awkward, but it was not his problem.

“Wonderful, then we're going to leave you two. We have much more important things to do. Nice to meet you, gentlemen!” Rafe nodded, and then put his hand on Carter's elbow as he ushered him away from his ex. Carter felt a sense of relief until they were at a safe distance on the other side of the bar, and his senses caught up to him. He glared at Rafe.

“What the hell was that about?”

If only the man knew how out of sorts he was just from his kisses and simple touches. Carter’s heart hadn't stopped racing, and it was all thanks to the handsome stranger.

His eyes couldn’t help taking in the man before him, and my, what a man he was. There was something about a man that looked sexy with salt-and-pepper hair. Carter could feel Rafe’s eyes on him, and it made him all hot and bothered again, but instead of showing it, he shot the man a glare.

“You have some explaining to do.”

2

Rafe

“A ‘thank you’ would suffice,” Rafe said, a teasing smile on his lips.

Carter’s jaw dropped. “Thank you? Thank you? What exactly am I thanking you for?” Rafe couldn’t take his eyes off the man in front of him, even as his face got redder and he spluttered. “I don't even know you and you come up and kiss me like… like…” He couldn’t seem to think of a word. “What the hell?”

Rafe crossed his arms in front of him and smirked because he found all the blustering cute. He liked that Carter seemed so strong-willed that he hadn’t just taken it. It made the attraction even stronger.

“Like what?” Rafe asked.

Carter shook his head. “Excuse me?”

“You said that I came up and kissed you like that, but what do you mean exactly? Kissed you like what?”

Carter's eyes held intently on Rafe’s, and he saw uncertainty, but it was replaced quickly by anger.

“You kissed me like it was the most natural of things. You kissed me like we'd been kissing for years.” Carter looked away from Rafe and he followed his gaze.

Carter looked in the direction of his ex, and Rafe watched his brow furrow. “Adrian never even kissed me like that.”

Carter’s eyes shot to his, and his eyes widened like he couldn’t believe he’d said that out loud.

Rafe couldn’t stop the smirk that appeared on his face. “I guess, you’re welcome then.” He knew he was crazy the moment he walked up and put his arms around Carter… it was confirmed by how proud that revelation made him feel.

“Are you always so cocky?” Carter’s eyes narrowed.

“Gets the job done.” Rafe shrugged, then winked at Carter whose mouth hung open slightly.

Carter finally closed his mouth and licked his lips. Rafe’s eyes followed the action, and his cock definitely took notice.

“Why?” Carter’s voice was small, his brow furrowed in confusion.

“Why what?” Rafe asked.

“You still haven't even told me why you really did that…”

“The guy was being a jerk. I thought you looked like you needed some backup. I was only trying to help.” Rafe held out his hand. “My name is Rafael Baxter.”

Rafe watched as Carter stared at his outstretched hand for a moment, but he was patient and gave him time. It felt like forever before Carter slowly shook it.

When he finally took it, Rafe felt like he’d won an award.

“Carter Dixon,” he mumbled.

Rafe nodded. “I know.”

“You know?” Carter’s eyes were wide on his.

He nodded and shrugged. “Yeah, you operate in the Orthopedic Department at the hospital I just started at.”

Of course, there was more to how Rafe knew Carter. He’d noticed Carter for a while now, observing him while he operated, and maybe he’d been hoping to get to know him. Although it had all been to no avail.

“Wait, hold on.” Carter studied him. “Are you… you're the Rafe Baxter,” Carter said, his eyes round.

Rafe chuckled. “I always dreamed of the day I would be known as ‘the Rafe Baxter,’” he teased. “You’ve heard of me?”

“Well, I might have seen your picture around. You won the award for your new keyhole-surgery technique, right? Your motto is that you'll save a million lives before you die.”

Rafe laughed. “Ten million lives actually, but the message got across. Not sure it's so much a motto as more a hope… and a goal.”

Carter rolled his eyes. “And so modest,” he mumbled.

Rafe wanted to laugh out loud, but he held it back.

“I could have handled myself. You didn’t have to swoop in and save me” Carter let out a sigh. “You practically made a fool out of both of us.”

Rafe shrugged. “I was merely trying to help. I didn't mean to overstep.”

“But it's how you chose to help…” Carter said. “Do you go around kissing every stranger that needs help?”

No, only the hot ones that I’m completely attracted to.

“If I did, I'd probably be sued,” Rafe pointed out.

He wanted to make Carter laugh, but Carter didn't seem all that willing to find amusement in any of the situation that Rafe had gotten them in. So, he went for sincerity.

“The truth is, I thought it'd be a good opportunity to introduce myself. I wanted to get to know the well-known orthopedic surgeon. I’ve seen you around the hospital a few times, and I guess I always wanted to meet you…” Of course, he left out the part where he had heard around the hospital that Carter had been dumped, and that he had seen him as more than just a professional, but perhaps one day he could explain that to him. “And, well, the opportunity presented itself… so, I jumped.”

That wasn’t the whole truth. Rafe didn’t really jump into anything headfirst without considering the consequences. But he saw his chance, and he’d really hated the smug look on that asshole Adrian’s face. Besides, Carter might not have realized it, but he was about to lose his shit in the middle of the bar, in front of a lot of medical professionals from all over the West Coast, and from what he’d seen of the man, he wasn’t really one to court attention.

“Will you at least accept my apology?” Rafe asked.

Carter looked towards the elevator. “It’s over and done with, I suppose.” Rafe watched Carter glance at his watch. “Well, uhhh, I have to rush off to meet up with some friends... for dinner.”

Rafe tilted his head thinking about the drinks he saw Carter down before Adrian even arrived in the picture.

“Dinner?” he repeated. “You were drinking so much, I guess I just assumed you had already had dinner.”

“Being judgmental now?” Carter’s brows were raised questioningly. The man rolled his eyes at him before heading in the direction of the elevator.

Rafe watched him until he walked in the lift. Carter hadn’t looked back once, so when the doors opened and he stepped in and turned around, Rafe murmured, “Look my way, look my way.”

When Carter did and actually gave him a small smile, his heart soared. Fuck yeah.

Carter didn’t know it yet, but his dismissal hadn’t worked. Rafe wasn't going to give up so easily. He needed to find another way to see Carter because he could feel it... The man was special and definitely worth getting to know.

More than from just the viewing gallery of an O.R., Rafe had heard all the gossip. He had also seen Carter’s talent as a surgeon… now he wanted to know the man.

3

Carter

There was a knock on Carter's hotel-room door forty-five minutes later, and he paused the movie he was watching, got out of bed, and opened the door for his room service.

Okay, so he’d lied when he said he was meeting up with friends. He’d just needed to get away from Rafe, and it was the logical excuse to make.

“Thank you.” Carter smiled at the woman who was at the door, then stepped aside letting her through. She pulled the cart into the room and parked it next to the small dinette set in front of the window. As the woman turned and walked towards the door, Carter stopped her as he grabbed his wallet from the bedside table, took out a few bills, and handed them to her.

“Thank you, sir. Enjoy your dinner” she said, and nodded before leaving.

Carter pulled the cart to his bed, sat down, and put the tv on. When The Holiday started playing again, he removed the lid from the tray and saw his sandwich and fries with the pickles off to the side.

He grabbed a fry and popped it into his mouth, and instead of watching Cameron Diaz and Jude Law make out, Rafe quickly came back to his mind. Mostly the feel of his lips against Carter’s… the man’s large body behind his.

Carter couldn't stop thinking about the other man. The more he thought about him, the more difficult it became to push him from his mind. He wanted to remain upset with the man for assuming it was okay to pull him into his body and kiss him. Still, it wasn’t only the kiss he couldn't get out of his mind. It hadn’t escaped his mind that Rafe was the sexiest man he had ever seen before.

His body had reacted immediately when he thought about Rafe. He was attracted to the man. He might have been able to lie and run away from the man, but there was no way to deny that fact.

Carter took a bite of his sandwich and heaved a sigh. Why did things have to be so complicated? Adrian was an ass, no doubt, and having Rafe there to look like Carter had moved on had been awesome. He had to admit he’d gotten pleasure out of watching Adrian’s smugness disappear, especially when he said he was a cardiothoracic surgeon. Every surgical intern knew Cardio was one of the hardest programs to get into.

Carter had been avoiding his ex because he didn’t want Adrian to think that he was the only one that had moved on, especially after the asshole had cheated on him, broken his heart, and humiliated him.

Okay, so Rafe had kind of given him a win—even though it wasn’t real… still, allowing Adrian to get the best of him would have been the worst thing that could have happened.

Carter worked on finishing off his plate, then after putting it back on the dining cart, pushed it outside his hotel room and placed it in the hall by the wall.

As he stood there with his door open, he heard laughter. He turned at the sound of it to where two men stood at a door. They were kissing and groping one another while trying to get their card into the door. Carter watched them for a moment, a feeling of sadness washing over him. Then he imagined it being him and Rafe. He had reminded Carter what it felt like to be kissed… wanted.

It was fake. It was make-believe. You don't even know the guy.

Yet it was a moment where Carter could actually believe that he had someone who cared about him. Rafe had allowed him to believe that for a moment… looking back, he wasn’t sure Adrian had ever made him feel like that.

Fuck, no matter what he did, he couldn't get the cardiac surgeon out of his mind.

As he got ready for bed, Carter told himself over and over he would not think about Rafe. And he repeated it over and over as he tried to get some sleep.

Carter got up early for breakfast and then a Pain Management seminar, but even as he got ready, Rafe still remained on his mind. Dammit! Just stop thinking of him already! He tried to order himself to get over it, but even that didn't work.

As he took the elevator to the lobby, there was a part of him that kept an eye out for Rafe, even as he told himself he really didn’t want to see the man.

He headed to the hotel restaurant so he could take advantage of the Continental Breakfast, and he spotted him. Rafe was headed out of the restaurant, so he quickly ducked down behind a planter so Rafe wouldn't see him. He watched as Rafe walked into the convention room, and if Carter’s eyes just happened to travel down to the man’s ass, well, he was only human.

He peeked through the planter and watched Rafe walking further away from him, then breathed a sigh of relief. It was a close call.

“Carter?”

He jumped when he heard a voice behind him. He turned around and saw Michael and Teo behind him. Michael was a doctor in the building where he had his office, but he hadn’t seen the man in a while. He’d gotten engaged recently to Teo and they’d invited him to a few parties at their home. They were one of those really happy couples that Carter had tried to avoid since the breakup.

“Hey, Michael… Teo… how are you guys doing?” Carter stood up and managed to smile at them, ignoring his heated cheeks or the fact that he felt like a total idiot.

“We’re doing well,” Michael replied. “Been a while since we ran into you.”

Carter sighed as he saw the same look in Michael’s eyes he’d seen in most peoples’ since the news of Adrian cheating and calling off their engagement had spread.

“Been really busy you know… surgeries.” Carter tried smiling, but he wasn’t sure he quite hit the mark.

There was a pause in conversation that was slightly awkward, and Carter couldn’t help wondering if he could back away.

“Did you get a chance to see the ring?” Michael asked, probably to fill the silence.

Teo hip-checked Michael, clearly in a bid to spare him from the conversation of marriage.

“I haven’t seen it yet.” Carter figured speeding the conversation up was the only way to go.

Teo held his gaze and he nodded, so he held out his hand for Carter and he looked down at it. He smiled and nodded. “It’s gorgeous, Teo. It really is.”

“Thank you, Carter.” Even though he was talking to Carter, his eyes were on Michael.

Carter wasn’t sure what else to say, but he realized it didn’t hurt as much seeing his friends happy talking about their engagement.

“We invited you to the engagement party,” Michael said. “We were sorry you couldn't make it.”

“Oh yeah… it was a rough week and I was in New York for a surgery. Sorry I couldn't make it, but I'm sure it was absolutely amazing.” Carter found he truly meant that. It would have been a lie a few weeks ago—don’t lie. It would have hurt before Rafe.

“We understand,” Teo said, then he shot a look at Michael that seemed to communicate something, and Carter wondered what that was about.

Teo looked back at him. “We know Adrian is here,” he said, as if that could explain all. “If you want to hang out with us, then we’re in room five sixty-five.”

I'm not about to be a third wheel.

“Thank you so much, but really… I'm fine. But, we should get together sometime soon and have drinks, though. My treat. I better run. Don't want to be late for the seminar.”

Before Michael or Teo could say anything in response, Carter hurried off to get to the convention center. He didn't want to be caught in another awkward situation. Just a couple more days to get through.

As the seminar began, he realized he hadn’t even managed to get breakfast.

* * *

Carter sat in the back of the room and listened to the speaker. He hated to admit it, but he had looked around the room to see if he could find Rafe, and even though he knew it was silly, his heart had skipped a beat when he spotted him in the second row.

On the flip side, he was also happy that it left him a safe distance away so that Rafe wouldn't be able to catch him.

Yeah, he was definitely a mess.

When the two-hour-long seminar finally ended, Carter realized he had caught like half of it… probably less. He got up and dashed out of the room, making it to the elevator without getting spotted or stopped by anyone, thankfully.

When he got to his room, he stood there for a little while, unsure what to do with the rest of his day. Then he walked over to the balcony, opened the sliding glass door, and peered down at the pool. The pool was not as crowded as he would expect.

He figured, why not? He didn’t have anything else he really wanted to attend for the rest of the day, so he decided to strip down to his bathing trunks and a t-shirt and hang out by the pool.

He got changed and sprayed himself with SPF—even after all this time, Adrian’s voice droning on about it was still in his head— then walked down to the pool through the back elevator.

Carter stopped at the bar and ordered a drink and a cabana. He walked over to one of the empty ones and put his Kindle down on the table, then took his shirt off and tossed it on one of the two lounge chairs before he lowered himself into the other.

Carter just sat and watched the people swimming in the pool while waiting for his drink. The waiter finally came and dropped it off, and this time he’d gone for a virgin daiquiri. He didn’t want to overdo it on the alcohol.

He started reading the mystery novel on his Kindle, but before he knew it, he started to doze off.

He put his Kindle down and let himself drift off, closing his eyes, but he could hear everything around him, though he wasn’t really focused on it. There were so few chances for him to relax with his schedule that he lost track of time and wasn’t sure how long he’d been there when someone came up and sat down in the seat next to him. He figured it was Teo or Michael trying to hang out with him or something, but when he opened his eyes and turned, it wasn't either of them.

It was Rafe.

“Hey,” Rafe said. “Hope I'm not interrupting your nap.”

Carter groaned.

He had spent all morning trying to avoid Rafe, and yet here he was, sitting just two feet away from him, a smile on his face.

Liar. You’re happy he’s here.

“Hey,” Carter said, and sat up, his eyes never wavering from Rafe. “What are you doing here?”

His eyes drifted down Rafe, and he wanted to curse himself when his eyes lingered over the shirtless, golden-skinned Rafe. His eyes travelled down his lightly-haired muscled chest, following the trail down as it disappeared into his trunks.

Carter hadn’t over-exaggerated his attraction to the man. Hell, he had never been so physically attracted to another person, and it wasn’t just Rafe’s looks. Since he’d read about him, he’d been more than just a little attracted to him.

Don’t let yourself get lost in the fantasy... not when your heart is still healing.

4

Rafe

Rafe caught Carter’s eyes on him, and he couldn’t help smiling. It was a good sign that Carter might be interested since Rafe sure as hell was. Carter looked up, caught him watching him, and he dipped his eyes downward, a cute blush staining his cheeks.

Rafe smiled. “I owe you an apology. I know you weren't ready to accept it last night, so I'm hoping you are more agreeable to it today. Please… let me make it up to you. I shouldn't have been so forward yesterday when I kissed you. I'm sorry… not for the kiss… I will never be sorry for that. But, can we start again? Please, let me buy you a drink and introduce myself to you properly.”

Rafe waited for his response, hoping that Carter said yes. He really wanted to spend time with him… get to know him.

“First off… It's not even eleven o'clock in the morning. It's way too early for a drink.” Rafe chuckled at that, but nodded. Carter continued. “Secondly, you’re apology is accepted, but not necessary. I understand why you did what you did, and while it's not exactly how I would usually handle things, it got the point across. So, maybe thank you are two words I should have used.”

Rafe quickly shook his head. “Believe me. I get it. This was my—”

Before he could get the words out, Carter wrapped his hand around Rafe's neck and pulled him in for a kiss. He felt a hand to his chest, and he was pretty certain that Carter could feel his racing heartbeat.

He was way too dazed to ask any questions—not that he wanted to. As he tasted Carter again, he sank into the kiss, not really caring what had brought it on. Rafe brushed his tongue across Carter's lower lip right as he pulled back.

“I've missed you all day, babe,” Carter said. “How was your last conference?”

Rafe's head was spinning. He was so confused.

The only conference he’d gone to today, he’d spotted Carter in the back of the conference room, so he knew they’d attended the same one.

He had to admit hearing Carter call him babe had his brain stalling… okay, so the kiss contributed too.

Rafe opened his mouth to question what was going on when he heard someone come up behind him. He turned, and that's when he spotted Adrian and his boyfriend. It hit Rafe in the face what happened, and he felt like a brick had settled in his stomach.

When he looked over at Carter, his eyes pleaded with him.

“Didn't mean to interrupt you two.” Adrian managed to look irritated and smug all at the same time.

Rafe shrugged. “A few minutes of interruption doesn't bother us. Now if we’re interrupted during sex, that would really piss me off.”

Rafe snickered as Adrian shot him a glare.

Taylor laughed nervously. “Well, we saw you both and thought it'd be a great opportunity to ask you guys out on a double date. We're always looking for couples to hang with.” He looked over at Adrian, “Right?” Then faced them again. “So, what do you say?”

Taylor's eyes lit up and Rafe saw Adrian roll his own eyes. “Taylor is a bit unique.” Adrian voice was condescending, and Rafe wanted to punch the man on Taylor’s behalf.

Rafe looked over at Carter and saw the blood had drained from his face. “We'd love that. Wouldn't we baby?” He tossed an encouraging look towards Carter, who smiled, but he didn't respond.

Rafe leaned closer so he could whisper. “Think how much he’ll hate it.” He didn’t need to say who “he” was. “But you’ll owe me dinner.”

When he pulled back, he winked at Carter and watched as Carter's cheeks reddened. Fuck, he was adorable with his thick, dark hair, the messy curls glinting with a golden hue when the light hit it. The well-groomed beard he sported complemented his medium skin tone, and his thick eyebrows dragged Rafe’s attention to some of the brightest clear amber-colored eyes he’d seen.

Rafe turned back to Adrian and Taylor. “We'd love it. Name the place and time and we'll be there.”

“How about tonight? The hotel restaurant works for us.” Taylor looked excited. “Seven o’clock?”

Rafe looked over at Carter and reached out and took his hand. He squeezed it lightly, and that had Carter's eyes finally meeting his. Carter managed a small smile, and then turned back to Adrian and Taylor.

“You've got yourself a double date,” Carter said. “We'll meet you there.”

“Great!” Adrian mumbled. He looked pissed, while Taylor was beaming with excitement. They both finally left, giving him and Carter more time at the pool by themselves.

Rafe turned to Carter and he started to laugh, but Carter covered his mouth with both hands.

He groaned, “If you give me a hard time, then I'm canceling tonight.”

Rafe pretended to zip his lips and throw away the key, but still smiled. He was excited. This was a chance to spend more time with Carter, and hopefully it was only a matter of time before it would be a real date.

He was sure of it… hopefully.

5

Carter

Carter stared at his reflection in the mirror. He couldn't believe they were going through with the double date. He also couldn't believe he had kissed Rafe the way he had. He could have broken the kiss once Adrian had spotted them, but he’d made no rush to part from the kiss.

Rafe had seemed to be enjoying it… he was pretty sure, although his dating radar was off. He hadn’t had to flex it in way too long. There was a part of him that figured he would never have to use it again.

He slowly released a breath as he stared at his reflection. “You're only going out because it will help you get Adrian out of your system and allow Adrian to see that you've fully moved on.”

You’re not even buying that. He rolled his eyes at himself and moved away from the mirror before he could panic anymore, possibly worse than he did with his first surgery.

There was a knock on the door and he turned in that direction with his heart racing and then his stomach rolled. He wasn’t sure if it was excitement or nerves… yup, this was definitely worse than the day of his first solo surgery.

The knock sounded again and finally spurred him to move to answer it. Carter opened door to find Rafe standing there. He was wearing a black suit that fitted him like a glove, with a black shirt and no tie, and Carter got that glimpse of his chest again, but it was the smile on Rafe’s face that held his attention.

He looked excited and a little nervous, and for some reason, that was even sexier than all the other times Carter had seen him.

“I still don't know why we couldn't have just met downstairs,” Carter said.

“Because we want it to look as authentic as possible, don't we?” Rafe pointed out.

He acknowledged Rafe was right. If they would have met in the restaurant, then Adrian surely would have questioned things. He was certain that Adrian and Taylor shared one room, so it would seem odd if Carter wasn’t doing the same with his boyfriend.

Man, did he like the sound of that… Rafe as his boyfriend.

“Are you ready to get this nightmare over with?” Carter asked.

Rafe crossed his arms. “I don't know that I much appreciate your attitude. First you practically attack me at the pool, and now you want to rush through dinner like we don't even like one another.”

Carter's mouth hung open. “Practically attacked you? Really? That's how you're calling it?”

Rafe threw his head back and laughed. “Come on… I'm teasing. Lighten up for a minute and tonight just might not be so bad.”

Carter released a breath. “You're right. I'm just on edge because I don't want Adrian to catch on that this is fake. He will never let me live it down.”

“Then… I guess we have to do whatever it takes so that he doesn't catch us. Let’s make it so convincing that even we start to question it.” He winked at Carter and that familiar flutter in his stomach returned.

He had a feeling he was the one that would need to remind himself to question it.

They left his room and headed to the elevator. They were just about to get on when Rafe took his hand and instinctively, he pulled back.

“What are you doing?”

“Relax. You never know who's watching,” Rafe said, then held out his hand for him.

Carter stared at it for a brief second before placing his hand in Rafe's. They rode the elevator down to the lobby like that and when the doors opened, it was to find Taylor and Adrian.

Rafe gave Carter a look that said, “I told you so,” before smiling at Carter and walking out of the elevator and approaching the other couple.

Fuck… he was already thinking about him and Rafe as a couple.

“Hey!” Taylor said, a wide smile on his face. He looked down at Rafe and Carter's joined hands and started to squeal. “Aren't they the cutest couple?”

Carter looked to Adrian, and his eyes were also focused on their hands, which made him smile.

“Hey,” Adrian mumbled, and his eyes went back to Carter’s, then back down to their joined hands.

“Hey,” Carter said. He leaned into Rafe and saw Adrian's eyes follow that too. Carter was amused to see that they were getting the exact reaction they wanted, but truthfully, he realized he would prefer if it was just him and Rafe, but since that wasn’t the case, he said, “Shall we go into the restaurant?”

Taylor smiled, and then took Adrian’s hand as they followed Rafe and Carter into the restaurant. They were led to their seats, and Rafe sat so close to Carter that he was practically on top of him—not that he was objecting.

Adrian seemed to notice everything, but all Carter could think was that he wanted to make the most of the evening with Rafe. He decided he was going to stop trying to fight it and actually enjoy himself. He had a feeling with Rafe, that wouldn’t be a problem.

While Carter had gone into this looking to have Adrian jealous of him, he was enjoying the evening for other reasons. He was enjoying Rafe's company, and the food was actually pretty good.

“Are you from the LA area?” Taylor asked Rafe at one point during the night.

Rafe took a sip of his wine and shook his head. “I was born in New York, raised in, well, everywhere, and recently moved to LA.”

“Wow… where have you been?” Taylor leaned forward with interest.

So was Carter since he was also learning everything about Rafe now.

“Well, my parents are doctors, too, but they worked with Médecins Sans Frontières. That’s actually how they met. I spent a lot of time in Africa—Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Egypt, Kenya, Mali, Nigeria. I came over here for college, but then I joined them for a while after Med school in Haiti and Serbia.”

“Wow.” Taylor’s eyes were wide. “That’s amazing.”

“Yeah,” Carter said, then all eyes fell on him. “I mean, yeah, I never get tired of hearing about it.”

Rafe smiled at him and then started speaking again. “I loved it, but once I chose my specialty, I had to settle down in one place. I did a fellowship in Minnesota for a while, but I got tired of snow and I ended up in LA” He looked over at Carter. “And I’m so glad I did.”

“You seem like a wanderer.” It was the first time Adrian had spoken directly to them since they’d taken a seat. Hell, he’d barely spoken. “So, you’re here for good, or are you going to be leaving soon?”

Carter had to admit he wasn’t mad at the question because he was wondering the same thing, but hold on, had Adrian sounded hopeful?

“LA is giving me great reasons to stay put.” Rafe held Carter’s gaze as he spoke, and Carter’s heart began racing.

When Rafe started mentioning all the places he’d lived and been, Carter had been a little worried the man wasn’t the settling-down kind. He didn’t realize how relieved he would be to hear Rafe say he was staying put.

Rafe reached under the table and took Carter's hand and squeezed it, but didn’t let go, and Carter found he didn't want to let go, either.

“How long have you two been dating?” Adrian asked

Carter turned to Adrian and his mind went blank. They should have thought of those questions, but neither one really considered that Adrian would be so inquisitive.

I know Adrian. I should have known.

“Two months.” Rafe was the one to reply, taking Carter by surprise.

Carter’s lips curved into a small smile. That was a brilliant answer, because it showed Adrian that he hadn’t spent time wallowing on their failed relationship.

“Wow… two months. How sweet!” Taylor cooed.

Carter smiled and glanced over at Adrian. “And you two first hooked up how many months before we ended our engagement?”

“Engagement?” Taylor parroted, his head snapping to Adrian. “What does he mean ‘engagement?’”

Adrian looked at him, then Taylor, but he didn’t seem to have an answer. Rafe squeezed Carter's hand again, then leaned into Carter's ear and whispered, “Remember… you deserve so much more than what he has to offer.”

Carter glanced at Rafe and his heart felt like it was coming out of cold storage… he wasn’t sure what he had read on his face, but Rafe was right, he did deserve way more than what Adrian could or had wanted to give him. It was time he fully let go of the past and finally moved on from it, and well, if he’d thrown Adrian under the bus in the process… then all was well, right?

Carter grabbed his glass and took a sip from it, then turned to Rafe. “I wanna dance.”

“Gladly,” Rafe replied.

They got up from the table and moved to the dance floor. Carter saw Adrian's eyes on him, and it brought a smile to his lips, but he dismissed it just as quickly.

Rafe’s hands went around his waist, and Carter put his own hands first on Rafe’s shoulders, then moved them up around his neck as they slowly danced to the music.

“Are they watching us?” Rafe asked, since his back was to them.

Carter shrugged. “I don't care. I'm done worrying about Adrian and what he thinks. You're right. I deserve so much better than him.”

He stepped closer to Rafe and held him tighter, and they swayed slowly. Carter could hear Rafe's heart beating, and it made him happy. It was good to know he wasn’t the only one feeling whatever this was.

The connection he felt with Rafe was what he always searched for. It just took him some time to find it. Carter sighed and rested his head on Rafe’s chest and they danced. He wasn’t sure where this would go, but Carter was opening himself up to it.

When the song ended, they walked hand in hand back to their table, but they were stopped by Taylor before they got there.

“You two make the cutest couple.” Taylor bit his lips and looked away. “I just wanted to say I’m sorry. I just found out about you and Adrian. I swear I never knew he was seeing anyone… not to mention engaged.”

“It’s fine, Taylor,” Carter put a hand on the younger man’s shoulder. “It’s not your fault.”

They all knew whose fault it was.

“Thank you.” Taylor sighed, “I’ll be going back to LA tonight. I feel like I don’t know anything about Adrian.”

Carter knew how that felt. “If you ever need to talk…

“I think I just need to go home and clear my mind. Maybe another time when we’re all back in LA. Thank you, Carter, it was so nice meeting you.” Taylor looked at his phone. “I have a car coming to take me to the airport.”

“It was lovely meeting you too.” Carter smiled at Taylor.

They went back to the table and it was just the two of them. Carter grinned and looked over at Rafe, and the look in his eyes had Carter’s heart racing and his knees feeling like they were trying to buckle.

Rafe pulled out his chair for him, which wasn’t something Carter was sure he would like, but surprisingly, he did, and Rafe took the seat next to him. They continued their evening, and Adrian never crossed his mind again.

* * *

Carter and Rafe didn't let go of one another's hands the whole way back to the room. They didn’t even bother pretending it was just in case they ran into anyone. There was a comfortable but tense silence until they reached Carter's door, and he turned to look at Rafe who let their hands slip apart so Carter could fish out the keycard from his pocket, albeit he did so reluctantly

“I actually had a really good time tonight.” Carter held the keycard in his hand, but didn’t move to insert it into the door.

Rafe chuckled while grinning. “You act like you're surprised by that.” His voice was more than a little teasing.

Carter shrugged. “A little surprised, but mostly excited.” He broke eye contact with Rafe at the admission. “It made me see how I was missing out on wonderful things because I was still holding onto anger toward someone who was definitely not worth it.”

Rafe shook his head. “Would I be a total jerk to say I’m glad you just realized that now.” That had him looking up and meeting Rafe’s gaze again. “You’re amazing, and I guess I’m glad that I’m the one here with you now.”

Carter blushed. “Thank you, Rafe.” God, he liked the man’s name a lot. “I owe you for so much.”

Rafe shook his head. “You don’t owe me anything.”

Carter stood there for what seemed like an eternity, unsure what to do or say next. A part of him was waiting and hoping for Rafe to make the first move, the other part worried that he wasn't going to.

“I should be going then.” Carter looked down as he turned the keycard over in his hands, still not moving to open the door. “It’s getting pretty late.”

He was just stalling in hopes that Rafe would finally get the hint. And Carter would whoop in excitement if he did.

Before he had a moment to think more about it, Rafe’s hand went around Carter's neck and pulled him forward, and he kissed him with a passionate hunger.

The mouth moving against his was warm and firm; the kiss, commanding as Rafe took full control. Rafe slipped his fingers through his hair, and he used the grip to tilt Carter’s head and deepen the kiss. Rafe nibbled on Carter’s lips, his tongue probing, seeking entry, and Carter willingly opened up for him. Their tongues danced, and Carter let out a moan as Rafe’s body pressed against his.

Rafe’s tongue dipped in and out of Carter’s mouth, making him shiver. Need coursed through him. His brain supplied images of Rafe’s body on top of his, and he couldn’t help it, he broke their kiss and blurted, “Would you like to come in?”

Rafe smiled and nodded. “More than you know.”

Carter turned around and quickly unlocked the door… although it took him a few tries. When he finally managed to get it open, he turned and took Rafe's hand and pulled him into the room. Before the door even closed, their lips reconnected.

Carter tasted Rafe’s tongue and nibbled his lips, and he drew Rafe’s towards him and kissed him deeper.

Rafe took over the kiss, giving him little nips as he worked his way down to Carter’s collarbone. Rafe groaned softly into his ear, the heat of his breath sending a jolt of excitement through his entire body.

“Damn, I want you,” Carter moaned between Rafe's lips.

Rafe chuckled and slipped his hands into Carter's suit jacket, pushing it off his shoulders and it fell to the floor. Carter was about to undo his tie when there was a knock at the door. He groaned and rested his head against Rafe’s shoulder.

Who the hell was at the door?

“Room service!”

Carter frowned and held up his hand. He went to the door and opened it up. A busboy stood at the doorway.

“I didn't order anything.”

“The hotel would like to offer you a complimentary bottle of wine, some cheese, and some fruit.”

“Thank you, but I'm not interested” But then he paused and looked at the bottle of wine and the two glasses and picked them up.

“Actually, I’ll take this. Thank you! Please put the tip on the room.”

He shut the door after he went back inside, his eyes going straight to Rafe, and he couldn’t help smiling. Rafe had taken the liberty of removing his suit jacket, and he was down to just a shirt and pants, sitting on the bed. With one hand still holding the glasses and wine bottle, he started to work on his tie with the other.

He yanked his tie off, then placed the wine and glasses to the side table and quickly undid his buttons and took his shirt off tossing it to the chair. Carter climbed over Rafe and got on the bed beside him, making sure they were as close as could be, then he leaned over Rafe, making sure their bodies touched as he grabbed the wine.

Rafe chuckled, placing a kiss on his neck.

When he sat back, Carter handed one glass to Rafe, and he couldn’t help placing a quick kiss on his smiling lips.

There was something so easy being around him that he didn’t even think twice about resting against Rafe’s chest.

“You know we could watch TV and have wine after…” Before Rafe even finish speaking, Carter had leaned over and placed the wine and his glass down on the bedside table and pounced on Rafe.

Rafe’s shock lasted only a moment before he wrapped his arms around Carter’s waist and pulled him on top of him.

“I guess this means the wine will wait till later.” Rafe laughed as he started running his hands up and down Carter’s back until they were finally low enough that he grabbed two handfuls of his plump ass and squeezed. “I’ve been wanting to do more than just kiss you all through dinner.”

Carter let out a groan and ground his hardened cock against Rafe’s straining erection. “I want to taste you,” he said, looking at Rafe with pleading eyes.

Rafe started nibbling on Carter’s earlobe and replied, “Only if I get a taste of you after.”

That was all the permission Carter needed before he slowly moved down Rafe’s body, touching and kissing the exposed flesh of his chest, stopping to nibble on one of the nipples before he made his way to where Rafe’s cock was tenting his pants.

Carter lightly ran his hand from the base to the tip and slowly swirled his finger over the head while grinning up at Rafe.

“Stop teasing,” Rafe protested between moans.

Carter chuckled and leaned forward, kissing up the fabric covering his prize as his hands worked at the button on Rafe’s pants, finally popping it open. Locking eyes with Rafe, Carter pulled the zipper down and yanked the pants off, tossing them carelessly to the floor.

Once Rafe was left only in his boxers, Carter stood up from the bed.

“Hey!” Rafe said with a pout.

Carter chuckled and silenced any further protests by leaning over and covering his mouth in a kiss.

Carter’s eyes were full of lust as he stood and pulled Rafe into a sitting position.

Rafe swung his legs over the side of the bed and pulled Carter towards him, trapping him in place between his thighs as he nibbled his bottom lip

Carter slowly knelt down on the floor and grabbed his boxers, never breaking eye contact, and quickly slid them down to release Rafe’s impressive cock. Licking his lips, Carter wrapped his hand around the base and lifted it up so the tip of Rafe’s erection was at his lips. He stuck his tongue out to lick the precum leaking from the slit like it was his favorite popsicle. He lowered his mouth over Rafe’s cock, starting at the head and slowly taking more in.

“Oh my God, Carter,” Rafe groaned, bucking his hips once towards Carter who slid his tongue up and down Rafe's shaft.

Rafe made several incoherent noises and Carter slipped his lips off with an audible pop and was just about to go pull Rafe’s cock back into his mouth when there was another knock on the door.

“Dammit,” Carter groaned. He stood back to his feet. “Let me get rid of them,” he said. He walked over to the door and opened it up. “I told you…” His words died when he saw Adrian standing there and not the bellboy as he expected.

“Hey, Carter. I hate to bother you, but we really need to talk.”

“This really is not a good time,” Carter said.

Adrian looked down at Carter’s bare chest and he nodded. “I can see that, but it really can't wait. Please.”

Carter looked behind him, unable to catch a glimpse of Rafe, but that was a good thing. it would have been awkward beyond words if Adrian was able to see Rafe, cock out… Plus, he didn’t want anyone to see Rafe… he was Carter’s now.

He turned back to Adrian. “Give me a minute.”

Adrian nodded and then stepped back from the door. Carter went back into the room to find Rafe already had his pants back on.

“You need to talk to him,”Rafe said to him.

He groaned. “I don't want to. I want to stay here with you.”

Rafe shook his head. “You have unfinished business. So I think you better talk to him.”

Carter could see Rafe meant what he said. “I won't be long,” he replied and placed a kiss on Rafe’s lips.

Rafe nodded and Carter grabbed his shirt and put it back on. He quickly buttoned up and stepped back in the hallway, which he had to look up and down before he found Adrian leaning against the wall. He was several rooms down from his, so Carter just shrugged, walked down, and leaned against the opposite wall.

“What do you want, Adrian?” Carter asked.

Adrian shook his head. “I fucked up.”

Carter didn’t say a word.

“I cheated on you. I broke your heart, and I wound up ruining the best thing that ever happened to me.” Adrian paused, and breathed in deeply. “I knew you would be here, and I brought Taylor here just to make you jealous.”

“You did what?” Carter asked, brow raised.

Adrian heaved another sigh. “Taylor and I have been seeing each other, but I've known for a while that he isn't you. No one I've ever met is you. I love you, Carter, and I ruined that. I ruined our chances at happiness. I don't even know if I can get your forgiveness. I don't deserve it. I don't even know if I can forgive myself.”

“Wow!” Carter stared at his ex. He had been hoping that one day Adrian would come to him and say that he had royally screwed up, but he never thought he’d live to see the day, though, no matter how much he wanted it.

“Now, you and Rafe are together and I have lost you… right? It hurts me more than you realize.”

Carter watched Adrian as he spoke, and he sounded sincere, which was out of character for him.

“Rafe and I aren't together,” he blurted. When Adrian started to open his mouth, Carter put up his hand to stop him. “That is… we weren't together. He was only trying to help me out, and I was trying to make you jealous and show you I had moved on, but then something happened tonight, something shifted, and I started to see him as someone that I really could be with. So, while we weren't initially together… I think we just might be working our way to getting there.”

Adrian's eyes fell to the floor. Several long minutes passed, and then he looked up. “Are you sure? I'm asking you to take me back and for you to let me prove to you that I can change. I know you don't see it now, but I can and I have and I still am very much in love with you. I even sent the wine to your room hoping that it would be a start.”

Carter finally heard the words he’d been hoping all along to hear, and all it did was make him sad that it had taken so long… but he was also relieved. He was moving on and not looking back.

“You truly hurt me, Adrian,” Carter made sure to look him in the eye as he spoke, “And believe it or not, I’ve wanted to hear you say that since the day you walked out of our home. But you made me see that I do deserve to be happy and that I shouldn't settle for anything less, and I owe that to you. A part of me will always love you, but I’m not in love with you anymore.” Carter looked in the direction of his room, then back at the man before him. “Too much has happened between us, and we can't go back. I don't want to go back. I want to move forward.”

“And by moving forward, you mean towards Rafe?” Adrian’s voice wasn’t as soft as before.

Carter thought about it and then nodded. “Yes. I am going to give it a go with Rafe. It may not work out or...” He shrugged. “All I know is he makes me feel… he makes me happy.”

He took a step towards Adrian. “You deserve happiness too.” He put a hand out for a handshake, but Adrian simply looked at his outstretched hands. Carter shrugged and put his hand down, “But for us… it's goodbye.”

Carter realized he’d meant every word. He was over Adrian and he was open to whatever Rafe and he could be.

“He’ll leave you,” Adrian threw at his retreating back. “He’ll see what I saw one day and he’ll leave, and you’ll crawl back to me.”

Carter ignored him. Maybe he was right. Rafe might leave him, but he didn’t care. He was going to take the leap. Besides, Adrian just reminded him how much of a favor he’d done by walking out.

When he entered his room, it was with renewed hope inside of him. Carter was overjoyed to find that Rafe was still there and seated on his bed.

He stood up, but his eyes didn't meet Carter's.

Carter felt a knot form in his belly when Rafe wouldn’t look up at him. “I need to talk to you.”

Rafe turned back to him and smiled, but it wasn’t his usual smile, the one he’d come to expect that brightened the whole place. “I think I already know what you've decided.”

Carter frowned. “You do?”

Rafe nodded. “What we had wasn't real, so it's clear that you chose to get back with Adrian.” Rafe shrugged. “You were going to marry the guy; it only makes sense.”

Carter reached out and touched Rafe's hand and then linked their fingers. “It's true that we were going to get married, but I'm not getting back together with him.”

Rafe finally met his gaze.

“I would like us to see where things go.” Carter bit his lip. “If you're up for that.”

Rafe's eyes widened and he pulled Carter into his body. “Really?”

Carter smiled and nodded. “I am positive. I am ready for a new beginning.” He leaned in and kissed Rafe. “In case I wasn’t clear, I meant with you.”

Rafe leaned in for another kiss.

They could have easily gotten right back to where they left off, but Carter was hesitant, so he pulled back slowly from the kiss.

“What's wrong?” Rafe asked.

“I don't want to rush things.” He bit his lip wondering if he should say this, but he figured he should start things differently this time, namely speaking his mind. “I want us to both be sure before we jump into anything…”

He looked away feeling silly.

“Talk to me, Carter.” Rafe used his finger to turn Carter’s head to face him.

“I was thinking that we should hang out the rest of this seminar. We only have one more full day left.” He paused as a thought occurred to him. “Did you drive?”

Rafe shook his head. “No, I flew up.”

He nodded. “I drove. So, what do you think about driving back to LA with me? We can talk, just us, and get to know each other better. Maybe stop along the way and start making our own memories.”

Rafe nodded his agreement. “Let's do it.”

Carter couldn't wait to see what the trip back to LA would bring, and he was ready to do things the right way this time. That meant not rushing things and ending up in the same place that he’d landed with Adrian.

Things with Rafe would be a whole lot better… he hoped.

6

Rafe

Rafe was grateful that the last day at the convention had been a full day of seminars because it didn't allow much time for Carter and him to spend time together… horizontal time, that was. But, to make up for it, they’d sat together at all the seminars they’d overlapped on.

Still, at the end of the day, they’d both been too tired, and it didn't allow much time for any intimate moments, although they’d still made out like teenagers at the door.

It had been difficult to leave Carter at his door the night before, but Rafe had to. If he’d stayed any longer, they’d have wound up in bed and they’d already decided to take things slow.

Rafe just had to keep telling himself that the next day they were headed back to LA, and hopefully, it would just be the beginning for them.

Rafe looked at his room one last time to make sure he hadn’t left anything behind, then made his way down to the lobby. He spotted Carter sitting with an opened a box of donuts and was in the middle of eating one before Rafe joined him. He’d grabbed a donut and smiled.

“Hey there!” Rafe took a bite so he wouldn't give in to the urge to kiss Carter.

Suddenly, Carter started laughing. “You know, I said we should take it slow… not non-existent.”

When Rafe swallowed the contents of his mouth, Carter stepped into his arms and kissed him.

Rafe had a huge smile as they parted. “You are so damn sexy.”

Carter laughed. “You're the sexy one. Did you see how Taylor kept looking at you.”

“I hadn’t noticed since my eyes were on someone else.” Rafe watched as Carter’s cheeks heated at his words, and he loved that they did. He leaned in and they kissed again.

When they pulled back, Rafe asked, “Ready?”

Carter’s lips lifted and he nodded. They each took their luggage, with Carter carrying the box of donuts under one arm. They left the hotel and Carter motioned to where he was parked.

The walk over to his car was in comfortable silence, and when they got there, Carter popped the trunk with his keyfob while Rafe picked their luggage up and put the cases inside.

“Thank you.” Carter said, his eyes shining.

Rafe was taken aback by how grateful Carter looked just because he’d helped him with his luggage, and it occurred to him that maybe he’d never had that.

Once he closed the trunk, Rafe got in the passenger seat, and when Carter got in the car, he turned and faced him from the driver’s seat. “Okay… first test.”

Rafe groaned, but chuckled, brow raised. “Test?”

Carter laughed. “If you had to choose a radio station, would you choose Pop, Rock and Roll, Country, or Opera?”

Rafe laughed. “Oh… Opera… hands down.”

Carter raised his eyebrow. “I’m going to assume that you're teasing.”

Rafe nodded. “I’m into all of it. Okay, not so much opera… but I also listen to a lot of Afropop and rap.”

Carter smiled. “Good choices.” When he turned on the radio, it was already on a Rock station. He smirked as Rafe started to jam to the song as he put the car in drive.

“I can’t wait to hear all about you growing up. I bet it was so much fun.”

“It was. I have friends all over the world. I went to international schools, so my friends are everywhere.”

“That’s amazing.” Carter glanced his way for a moment.

“Yeah, maybe one day we could go to Ghana together. It gorgeous. And Lagos in Nigeria is the real city that never sleeps.”

“I would love to.” Carter glanced his way again. “I really would.”

“I would love to share it with you.” Rafe knew he had a loopy grin on his face.

“Do I get a question now?” Rafe asked as they started the drive through wine country.

“Of course!”

“What is 90,000 divided by 125,000?” Carter tossed a glance in his direction, brow raised, and Rafe burst out laughing. “I'm kidding.”

“I would hope so.” Carter rolled his eyes, but he was laughing.

“Okay, so here's the real question… favorite movie?”

“Depends. I love a good Rom-Com, and I’ll watch almost anything with Sandra Bullock, but then I love an action movie when I need white noise.”

Rafe nodded. “I’m more of a TV-show guy… I watch a lot of reruns.”

Carter looked in his direction. “Really?”

“I think I’ve watched Big Bang Theory a thousand times, but I love a good rom-com.”

“Who’s your fave duo? Mine is Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore.”

“Mine is Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson.” Rafe said.

“Huh… interesting,” Carter said.

Rafe glanced at him out of the corner of his eye. “How so?”

Carter snickered. “I think we may need to have a movie off.”

Rafe grinned. “Don’t tell me you think 50 First Dates wins over How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.”

“Is that going to start our movie off? I think we have to settle this, even if we have to watch all their movies over several days. Might even have to watch them twice.”

When their eyes met, Carter’s were lit up. “You’re on.”

Rafe settled in for the rest of the seven-hour trip, ready to just get to know one another and find out each other's quirks, habits, likes, and dislikes. He looked forward to making the most of the trip, and it was going to go way too fast.

* * *

By the time Carter drove into LA, Rafe and he had learned everything from their favorites in food to their favorite subjects in college. They didn't miss any details, and Rafe was more intrigued by the orthopedic surgeon now than he had been when he’d seen him around the hospital. They had a lot in common, and he felt more of a connection with him than anybody else he’d ever dated in his life. It cemented his initial feelings from when he’d first observed Carter—he was special. And he couldn't wait to start a future with Carter in it.

They were just ten minutes from his home when Carter blurted out, “So, uhh... we should probably make plans for our movie marathon.”

Rafe laughed. At least he knew the man wanted to see him again and they were on the same page. “Just say when. We could start now.”

They were minutes from his place, they had just gotten started, and he wasn’t ready to say goodbye yet.

“I do have my toothbrush,” Carter replied.

“I’m taking that as a you’re staying over.” Rafe couldn’t stop the smile from spreading across his face. “There’s a mall not far from here if you need to get clothes.”

“How long are you trying to keep me at your place for?”

When Rafe studied Carter’s face, he didn’t look like he was complaining about it.

“As long as possible,” Rafe said. He was relieved to get the confirmation.

Carter couldn't have driven any faster than if he would have been on a hovercraft. They made excellent time and didn't even bother getting the luggage before they jumped out of the car and hurried towards the front door. Rafe had the keys in hand and got the door opened without dropping them.

The minute they were behind closed doors, they were on one another and shirts were flying off.

“Lead the way,” Carter moaned between his lips. They continued to kiss all the way down the hall and into Rafe’s bedroom. They lost the rest of their clothing at record speed, leaving a trail back to the foyer. By the time they were actually in the room, they were both naked and ready, and Rafe was never more glad to have gotten a bungalow.

Rafe pulled from the kiss and flipped Carter around so his back was to him. He kissed a path down the back of Carter’s neck to his shoulder blade, and as he pulled him flush with his body, his hard cock pressed into the cleft of Carter’s ass. He traced his nails down Carter’s chest, swirling over his nipples before reaching his stomach, where he paused only a moment before wrapping his hand around Carter’s cock while using the other hand to massage his balls.

“Fuck, Rafe.” Carter leaned his head back onto Rafe’s shoulder. “Please.”

Rafe began to suck on the crook of Carter's neck, biting down on his skin while he slowly began stroking his cock, teasing the head with his thumb at each upward pass. As he slid the head of his own cock further between Carter’s asscheeks, Rafe sucked harder at the spot, knowing there would be a mark there in the morning.

“You're driving me crazy,” Carter said through a groan.

“I’m just getting started,” Rafe replied in a low, gravely voice filled with need and want.

Carter twisted his head from side to side as Rafe started to slide his cock up and down Carter's ass, grazing over his hole and causing Carter to moan.

“Fuck, Rafe. Don’t tease... Want you.” Carter managed to breathe.

Rafe finally pressed the tip of his cock against Carter's hole, demanding entrance, which caused Carter to shiver against him.

Rafe broke the kiss, breathing heavily. “You don’t know how long I have wanted inside you. Wanted to feel you squeezing my cock.”

“Please,” breathed Carter. “I was tested last month, and I’m all clear. I haven’t been with anyone since...” His voice trailed off, they both knew who he meant.

Carter turned his head to peer back at him. “What about you?”

Rafe let out a sigh. “Just you saying that made my cock harder.” He nibbled Carter’s neck before continuing. “I’m okay, too, and haven’t been with anyone since my last two tests.”

“Then fuck me just like this,” Carter panted out. “Hurry, please. I want you inside me now.”

Rafe groaned and removed his hand from Carter’s cock, using the precum to slick up his dick. He took Carter’s lips in a bruising kiss before he slowly slid down Carter’s back, leaving a trail of kisses and running his hands down his sides before his face was level with Carter’s plump, perky ass.

“God, Carter,” Rafe said almost reverently. “Your ass…”

Trailing off, Rafe wasted no more time with talk. He leaned forward and began kissing the cheeks, first one globe, then the other, and gave a quick smack to Carter’s left cheek, watching it bounce slightly from the contact.

“Hey!” Carter yelped.

But his cry immediately turned to a moan as Rafe ran his tongue up his crack.

“Lean forward for me, baby,” Rafe crooned, rubbing circles on Carter’s hips.

Carter did as he was asked and braced himself with his hands against the wall in front of him. Rafe tapped his legs so he would spread them more, and once he was in position, Rafe let out a strangled sound and buried his face in Carter’s ass.

“Oh my… Oh Fuck!” Carter cried out.

Rafe smiled and let out a hum as he ran his tongue in circles around the tight, quivering hole before him.

“So good, babe.” Rafe mumbled, as he continued to lick and suck.

Curling his tongue, Rafe began pushing against the hole for entrance, finally sliding in when Cater relaxed it, and he started to tongue fuck Cater.

“Just like that, Rafe. Please… more,” Carter begged.

Rafe rached a hand between Carter’s legs and gave a quick tug to his balls before rubbing the head of his cock, taking the precum leaking heavily from the slit and coating his finger with it.

Slowly drawing back, and as Carter began to protest, he gently circled the muscle with his finger before sliding it in to the first knuckle.

“So warm… so tight.” Rafe was thrilled that he would be the one to end Carter’s apparent sexual hiatus, and from this day forward, would be the only one to experience the feel of Carter’s hole. “I can’t wait to be inside you.”

Carter continued to moan as Rafe began sliding his finger in and out, going deeper with each return push. One finger became two, and Carter let out a gasp as Rafe twisted them and rubbed against his prostate.

He gently began to scissor his fingers, stretching him since Rafe knew it had been a while since Carter had last been fucked, and he didn’t want to hurt him. Once the third finger had joined the other two and he was almost a puddle leaning against the wall, Carter cried out.

“Please. I’m ready. I want you. Now.”

Carter was panting and Rafe slowly withdrew his fingers and slowly stood back up, grabbed onto Carter’s shoulder with one hand while using the other to spread more of precum over his cock before lining it and thrusting balls deep into Carter in one, fluid motion.

Carter let out a gasp and Rafe was still as he gave Carter time to relax around the intrusion. Once Carter started to gyrate his hips against Rafe, he let loose and began to piston in and out of his tight channel.

The sound of slapping flesh filled the room to accompany the moans and grunts coming from the two men as they let their true feelings for each other show in the passion of their intimate dance.

When Rafe slowed and withdrew slightly, Carter clamped his hole tight, preventing Rafe from pulling out any further.

“No you don’t,” Carter panted. “You feel too good. It stays in until I feel your warmth pumping me full.”

“I have no plans on pulling out,” Rafe responded, leaning forward to nibble on Carter’s earlobe.

“Yesssssss…” Carter cried as he bucked his hips harder against Rafe, pulling his cock back in.

Rafe slid one hand across Carter’s chest to the opposite shoulder and then wrapped the other arm around Carter's stomach. As he plowed in and out of him, hitting Carter’s prostate with each pass, his thrusts became more forceful and erratic. Rafe's breathing was ragged, his breath hot where it hit Carter's skin. He pulled all the way out except for the tip and then plunged in one final time, going deeper than he had before. At that moment, he felt his cock harden to steel and begin to pulse as his cum poured into Carter’s velvety warmth, marking him as Rafe’s.

As Carter collapsed against him, Rafe slowly pulled out and felt his seed leaking out of Carter’s hole before he turned Carter around to face him. They melted into a heated embrace, and their tongues fluidly danced with one another's.

Rafe ran his hands down Carter's backside until he clutched his ass firmly in his palms and lifted him up and into his arms. Carter wrapped his legs around Rafe’s waist, and he carried him to the bed. Carter arched his back, breaking from the kiss as Rafe lowered him to the bed.

Rafe fell into Carter, his cock sliding against his leg as they continued to kiss. Carter reached down and started to grope his softening cock between his fingers, causing Rafe to pull back, and smirked. “You really are gorgeous,” he said.

Rafe grabbed Carter's neck with both of his hands and pulled him back to him as they kissed again, Then he straddled Carter's legs and sat on his lap as he ground his hips against Carter’s rock-hard erection. They stayed in that position for several minutes until Rafe could feel Carter’s cock start to throb. Rafe slid off, dragging Carter’s cock down his ass crack, and backed up on the bed, pulling Carter with him and then pushing Carter down on his back.

Rafe kissed Carter on his lips and all the way down his neck, continuing down his chest, stopping at his nipples to lick and nip the pebbled nubs.

“Fuck!” Carter rasped out, threading his fingers through Rafe’s hair and guiding him lower.

When Rafe reached his stomach, he stopped and pulled himself up and kissed Carter hard, then rolled onto his back. Carter pulled himself up onto his elbows and looked over at Rafe.

“Wanting something?” Rafe asked, and then laughed as Carter nodded slightly with a whimper.

Rafe traced his fingers down Carter’s chest and gazed up into his eyes before he scooted back to the end of the bed and placed one hand around Carter's cock, lifted it up, and leaned in, taking his cock all the way into his mouth.

He hungrily devoured him, licking his way up and down his erection. Carter released a groan and shifted beneath him, trying to make himself more comfortable, all the while Rafe continued to suck eagerly on his cock.

“Fuck, yes,” Carter groaned, thrusting his hips up and down.

Rafe pulled back and withdrew, then plunged back down again, hollowing his cheeks which caused Carter to fist the bedsheets, holding himself in place. Rafe sucked Carter’s cock in until it hit the back of his throat.

“I’m gonna… Fuck, babe..I’m gonna come,” Carter gritted out through clenched teeth.

Rafe felt Carter’s cock begin pulsing as his cum poured down his throat. He enthusiastically swirled his tongue around the crown of Carter's dick, gathering up any drops that remained as Carter steadied his breathing. Carter sighed as Rafe finally pulled back off him, then lazily wandered back up Carter's body until they kissed. Rafe felt relaxed and excited about the new life before them. They were together and the future looked bright.

Epilogue

Carter

Seven Months Later

“It was an awesome party,” Carter said as he reached for Rafe's hand, and they walked into their house. They had moved in together nearly two months ago, and it was the best decision he’d ever made.

He loved Rafe, and he definitely loved living with him.

“It sure was. Tristan and Nathaniel are an amazing couple, and they looked so happy, even when Wyatt managed to cover himself in finger-paints.” Carter said.

Teo and Michael had invited both him and Rafe to several other get-togethers the past couple of months, then introduced them to their friends, and that was how they’d ended up at a birthday party for a two-year-old.

“Do you ever think about it?” Carter turned from the fridge to watch Rafe.

“Think about what?”

“You know… having kids.” Carter watched Rafe.

Rafe walked over to him and wrapped his arms around his neck.

“Have you thought about it?” Rafe asked.

Carter shrugged and picked at a nonexistent spot on Rafe’s shirt. “Maybe, sometimes…”

“I’m open to it if that’s what you were wondering…” Rafe went quiet, until he finally met his gaze. “I’m very open to it.”

Carter couldn’t help smiling. He’d never really thought of having a kid, or maybe he had, but more like as an abstract concept. But now… with Rafe, he could definitely see it.

“I think you would be an amazing dad,” Rafe said, “and I want to have every adventure with you, even being parents.”

Carter leaned in and kissed Rafe, his arms tightening around his boyfriend’s waist. “I love you,” he whispered, pulling back so he could look into those eyes he loved waking up to every morning.

“I love you too.” Rafe eyes were shining, and Carter knew this time his heart was safe.

Carter sighed and rested his head against Rafe’s chest, and he couldn’t believe this was his life. He’d never been happier.

“My parents will move to LA if they find out we’re having kids. Like, we will never get rid of them.”

“I love your parents.” Carter had met them a few months ago when they’d come up from Mexico where they were working at the moment. His own parents lived in Atlanta and were planning to come down for Christmas.

Carter yawned. “Wow, I’m so exhausted. Who knew spending the day with a bunch of kids would wear me out more than a five-hour surgery?”

“Well, you better get used to it. We won’t be able to return it once it’s ours,” Rafe said in a teasing voice as he led Carter out of the kitchen and up the stairs.

They’d sold both their places and gotten a new house together in Pacific Palisades, and Rafe realized it was the perfect size for at least two kids.

Rafe smiled. “Let me get you to bed, Dr. Dixon.”

“You say the nicest things to me.”

They walked hand in hand all the way to their bedroom. As Carter stepped into the room and turned on the light, he saw the display on their bed. Rose petals were broken apart and splayed over the comforter, spelling out the words, “Marry me.”

“What's this?” Carter turned around and he covered his mouth when he saw Rafe on his knee in front of him.

“Carter Dixon, you have made me happier than I’ve ever been, and I want to share everything with you, every adventure this life has to offer…” Carter watched his usually confident man take a deep breath. “Carter… will you marry me?”

Carter couldn't believe his ears as tears streamed down his cheeks. Over the past seven months, he had fallen more and more in love with Rafe, and even though he never thought he would want to get married after Adrian, he trusted this man, and he wanted to marry him.

“Rafe, I love you. And yes… yes I will marry you.”

Rafe took the ring from the box and slid it onto Carter's finger, then stood, pulling Carter into his arms and they kissed. Rafe lifted Carter and spun him around.

“I love you,” Rafe said as his arms tightened around Carter’s waist before he set him down on the floor.

“I am suddenly not as tired as I was before.” Carter started unbuttoning Rafe’s shirt.

Rafe was the best thing to come to him, and he would spend every day of his life showing him how much he meant that.

Their lives were truly just beginning… and he was even looking forward to stinky diapers.

* * *

Wondering who Teo and Michael are check out their book “His Instant Family” or Tristan and Nathaniel in “A Family For Keeps.”

For news and updates on upcoming releases, ARC opportunities, bonus content, and special giveaways/promos, join my Facebook readers’ group Richmond’s Rider or subscribe to my newsletter Click Here to receive Rheland’s Newsletter

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About the Author

Since she was a little girl, Rheland Richmond entertained herself with any book she could get her hands on. She has written for as long as she can remember, and now she finally gets to share some of those stories with other people.

She loves a good happily ever after because she believes love and light should touch everything. She is an obsessive reader and would never have considered writing if it wasn’t for all the authors who inspired her and the thousands of books she has devoured along the way.

When she’s not reading, she’s caught up in all her guilty pleasure TV Shows. Or catching up with her sibs wherever they are in the world, which usually involves long distance calling. She’s an introvert who will take a night in before anything else.

Made in Nigeria and Raised in the UK, she’s an interesting mix of both cultures and appreciates both equally.

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Also by Rheland Richmond

Stories Of Us Series

His Instant Family

Christmas For Keeps

The Family We Make: A Valentine’s Novella

A Family Of His Own

His Reluctant Family (Coming Soon)

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Forever With His Boss (Coming Soon)