Friends, Sexcapades, And Love Affairs - 24. He Said …

Chapter Twenty-Four – He Said …

He rarely drove, and his car was used to catch dust in the parking lot, but he had to do it for this particular quest. Adrian stood, his mind a haze, his hands resting still on the wheel, a few yards away from Edward’s house. He had rehearsed everything he wanted to say over and over, but his words became a mess the more he repeated them. Clasping the wheel tightly, he was about to get out of the car when the large gate to the mansion opened, and Edward’s limousine passed through. By the looks of it, the owner of the house was on the backseat.

Without overthinking, Adrian ignited the engine. What was he supposed to do now? Follow him? It sounded stalkerish, but Adrian didn’t care about nuances at this point. For the fourth night that week, he had caught almost no sleep. No matter how final Edward’s words from their last meeting had sounded, he needed one last explanation and definitive answer. He could only hope that Edward would be honest and tell him the truth. All that talk with the boys had convinced him that it was the most important thing he had to try.

The limousine didn’t hurry, whatever the destination was, and Adrian prayed silently that it wouldn’t be some fancy club where only members could enter. To his relief, the car stopped in front of a restaurant, and Edward was helped out of the backseat by his driver, who ceremoniously held the door.

From one side, someone walked over to Edward, and Adrian froze. Even from that distance, it appeared that the newcomer was a young man, no, probably a teenager, dressed in an expensive suit. Little else could be said about his features. There seemed to be affection between Edward and him as they shook hands and kissed each other on the cheeks before walking inside together.

The wave of jealousy clouding his judgment for a moment took him completely by surprise. So, it hadn’t taken Edward long to replace Adrian. Or, worse, he hadn’t had to do that; that thought brought a pang to his chest that stopped his breathing for a moment. He was a complete moron. Adrian pursed his lips. Well, if that was the truth, at least, now, he knew where he stood.

He walked into the restaurant with a nonchalant gait that was nothing but an act. He approached the maître d’ with a charming smile. “I’m with Mr. Hastings,” he explained, after greeting the man.

The maître d’ quirked a thin eyebrow and examined the log in front of him.

“If you could just point me to that table, that would be wonderful,” Adrian said as he quickly scanned the floor. He noticed Edward and his companion at a table in a corner. “Ah, I see them. Thank you for your assistance.”

The maître d’ stood nonplussed for just one second, and then he hurried from behind his desk. “Mr. Hastings is down with just one other person. Would you please let me check with him, first, sir?” the man said politely, but firmly.

Adrian was already walking toward Edward. He could see him just fine, but he couldn’t make of his companion anything else but the back of his head. The young man had blond hair, a bit on the rebellious side by how it was sticking everywhere, and Adrian thought, with petty satisfaction, that he didn’t fit Edward’s pretensions for a perfect presentation.

“Sir, sir?” The maître d’ sounded alarmed now and sauntered after Adrian.

The ruckus didn’t pass unnoticed, as a few people at the tables stopped their conversation to observe what was happening. Edward raised his eyes and met Adrian’s. For a second, he appeared surprised, but then his face schooled itself into a neutral demeanor. He stood up from his chair and gestured for Adrian.

Was Edward secretly taking acting classes? No one could suspect what he was thinking. Adrian felt a small chill down his back; it could be that he had never really known Edward, and he was simply delusional in his misplaced affection.

“Mr. Hastings, is this gentleman with you?” the maître d’ asked in a slightly annoyed tone.

“Yes. Apologies for not letting you know in advance. It simply slipped my mind.”

The maître d’ turned into a sycophant in an instant, murmuring apologies. “I will send another menu to your table right away.”

“Thank you, Mr. Garmont,” Edward said, inclining his head an inch. “Adrian, please have a seat.”

It was fucking surreal. The plan wasn’t to walk in and sit politely at the same table with Edward and his latest conquest, or whoever that young man was. Adrian pursed his lips hard, but Edward warned him with his eyes. He pulled the chair and sat, although his teeth were grinding at the moment.

Edward’s companion was examining him with curious eyes. Adrian stole a glance at him. Fuck, he was young and pretty. His big blue eyes were like taken from a commercial, and Adrian had to keep himself from staring. He couldn’t be older than eighteen, and even that was a bit of a stretch. Boy, Edward liked them young, he thought with spite.

“Well,” Edward started, once the maître d’ was out of earshot, “to what occasion do I owe the pleasure?”

“We still have things to talk about,” Adrian said, staring down stubbornly. He was afraid he would feel tempted to strangle someone, preferably Edward, if he looked up.

“You could have called.”

“And you could have turned down my calls.”

They spoke in low voices, and Edward smiled a few times perfunctorily until the interest around them died down. Adrian wasn’t that good an actor.

“All right. This is not the time, nor the place --” Edward started.

Adrian turned toward the teenager sitting at the table who took in everything with eyes big as saucers. “How about you go powder your nose or something, sugar?”

The blue eyes widened so much that it felt like they were bent on swallowing the young man’s entire face. “Sugar?” He snickered and looked at Edward. “Who’s this, Ed?”

“None of your business, plaything,” Adrian said through his teeth.

“Plaything?” The youngster didn’t appear offended, just surprised.

“Yeah,” Adrian said, now too worked up. “Edward, I had no idea you like your lovers this young. Barely legal,” he added, after throwing another condescending look in the direction of Edward’s companion. “You could have told me this is how you roll.”

Edward frowned. “Keep your voice down, Adrian. This is my cousin --”

Cousin?

“Is this Adrian?” The teenager was obviously excited. “O.M.G.” He grabbed Adrian’s arm and leaned over the table to have a good look at him. “He is so frigging sexy!”

“Christian, do I have to reprimand you, too?” Edward became a bit aggravated.

Christian’s eyes moved between Edward and Adrian, and then he nodded thoughtfully. “You two have matching dark circles.”

Adrian looked at Edward. His aristocratic face was drawn, and he appeared tired, which was unlike him. Tough day at work? What could make Edward, who always seemed sharp no matter the moment of the day, look like that? He was still elegant, his hair was still brushed to perfection, but his eyes were dull.

“Your cousin? This is your cousin?” Adrian asked.

“Edward is my fifth cousin, once removed,” Christian explained, although the question hadn’t been directed at him.

Adrian didn’t know what to say for a moment. Some of his righteous anger was gone, and he needed to regroup his thoughts. Somewhat intrigued, he turned toward Christian. “How do you know about me?” he asked directly.

Christian seemed to have barely waited to be asked that. “Are you kidding me? Ed told me all about you! And boy, you do live up to expectations. How was the test?”

“The test?” Adrian wanted to turn toward Edward for confirmation, but he was too interested in what Christian had to say.

“Don’t tell me he didn’t introduce you to the family,” Christian said, emphasizing the last word.

“What is your cousin talking about?” Adrian asked Edward this time.

Christian was about to say something again.

“Christian Marshall The Third,” Edward said in a voice that brooked no contradiction.

That appeared to have all of the unruly youth’s attention. “You didn’t, right?” Christian asked in a subdued voice. “But why?”

Edward worked his jaw.

“That’s what I would like to know, too,” Adrian said.

“You’re here to reproach me something,” Edward replied instead. “Go ahead and do your best. But please, don’t make a scene. I’d like to come back here.”

Adrian drew one deep breath. “Are we doing this in front of your cousin?”

“When you walked in here, with murder in your eyes, you didn’t appear to care. Do your worst,” Edward said. He seemed upset, and Adrian was a tad disconcerted by that. The tables had somewhat turned, and he had no idea how or why.

“You still came.” Adrian drew one deep breath. “Even if you thought all was over between us, you still came and met me. Why?”

Edward shrugged. “It was a whim.”

Christian intervened. “What are you guys talking about? It’s over between you two? When did that happen?”

Adrian wanted Christian to keep on talking, but Edward stared down his cousin, muting him.

“I don’t buy it,” Adrian said incisively.

“I’m sorry, but I have nothing else to sell,” Edward replied in kind.

“How did you two split up?” Christian intervened.

Adrian knew that very moment that he was a man with nothing to lose. His eyes never leaving Edward, he gave Christian the answer he was waiting for. “I told Edward that I loved him, and he left.”

“Wow,” Christian whispered, aware of not talking too loud to attract attention. “So, you’re a coward, after all, Ed?”

“My thought exactly,” Adrian said, feeling vindicated a little by that confirmation.

“You two know nothing about me,” Edward spat. “Now, if everything is clear --”

“Nothing’s clear!” Adrian said the same thing as Christian almost at the same time.

“I will not tolerate the two of you making a scene here,” Edward warned.

“Then you must tell me about this test Christian is talking about, and explain why you didn’t think I should take it.”

“I thought you were done playing.”

“That’s not it.”

Christian intervened again, now in a conspiratorial voice. “Ed brings home to mom and dad only the potentials.”

“Potentials?” Adrian began whispering, too. “For what?”

“For marriage, of course,” Christian said in the most natural manner.

“Marriage?” Adrian couldn’t believe his ears.

“That’s it. I’m done with the two of you.” Edward threw his napkin he had been playing with for the last minutes on the table and stood up. “I’ll pretend to attend to certain needs in the hope that you, Adrian, won’t be here when I get back.”

Adrian stared at Edward’s retreating back and shook his head. He knew he had to hurry after him, but, once, he didn’t want to make a scene, and two, he wanted to hear more explanations from Christian.

“Christian, you seem like a swell guy,” Adrian started.

“You, too,” Christian replied and smiled. “You thought I was Ed’s boyfriend? Were you jealous?”

This one looked like he favorited gossip as a type of entertainment. But he seemed like a reliable source of information, and Adrian could see past that, especially since Christian appeared to be an ally, too.

“Yes, madly jealous,” Adrian admitted. “Now, tell me, what’s this talk about marriage? Edward told me clearly that he doesn’t believe in such things.”

Nor in love.

“Well, that’s an act,” Christian explained. “His parents are so afraid he might end up with a gold digger that they are willing to go out of their ways to make sure that doesn’t happen.”

“How, exactly?” Adrian was more puzzled by the second.

“They promised they will disown Edward the moment he finds a guy to marry.”

“Wow. So what’s the test?”

Christian smiled, happy to gossip away. “Edward takes home the potential husband, and then his parents let the guy know that not only he won’t see a dime, but that Edward won’t see one from them, ever again, either.”

“And?” Adrian didn’t sense any of the earlier puzzlement going away.

“And,” Christian sighed, “they kind of got it right because all the guys bailed out the moment they heard that.”

“No shit.” Adrian was surprised. “So, why the hell didn’t I get put to the test?”

Christian shrugged. “Beats me. Of all the others, it looked like Edward liked you the most.”

“For real?” Adrian felt his head buzzing with possibilities.

Christian nodded with conviction. “He talked so much about you. Truth be told,” he lowered his voice and looked around, “I thought I could hear the wedding bells this time around.”

“So, you have no idea why I didn’t get put to this test?” Adrian asked, just to make it sure.

Christian shook his head slowly. “None. I mean, I had no idea you two broke up. And Ed tells me everything.”

Seeing what a gossip Christian was, Adrian doubted that, but he hoped he was wrong. “I must go after him and confront him. Do you have any idea where the bathroom is in this place?”

Christian pointed him in the right direction. “I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you.”

“Thanks, man. Great meeting you.”

“Same here.”

Adrian walked purposefully; he had another thing to make clear now.

***

The bathroom of a fancy restaurant was not the ideal backdrop for romantic conversation, but Adrian had a feeling whatever they had to share wouldn’t be that. His anger returned as he walked in and saw Edward resting his hands against the edge of a sink the size of a small apartment, while the water ran.

“Not caring about saving the planet and all that?” Adrian opened with a joke.

Edward looked at him and turned off the tap. “I can see that you’re not well trained, after all. I thought I was clear.”

Adrian couldn’t care an iota about whatever lies flew out of Edward’s mouth right now. He walked toward him until he forced Edward to stand upright so that they could stare at one another. “You left me with your cousin, knowing fully well that he would tell me everything about that weird family test.”

“And?” Edward looked up to a fight. He was no longer cool and collected, his usual self. And the dark circles under his eyes were proof that he was still human, after all.

“Why? Why didn’t I get put through the wringer, like everyone else?”

“Why? Are you sure you don’t know the answer already?”

“Enlighten me. I’m not that clever, as you said before.”

Edward bore his eyes into Adrian’s. “I suppose Christian explained that only men who I deem worthy of being introduced to the family are invited to meet my parents.”

“So? I’m not worthy? Why? Because of my humble origins?” Adrian parodied the words.

“Not at all. That’s not an issue. We two established from the get-go that we weren’t involved with some happily-ever-after in the cards. I thought you and I were on the same page.”

“You mean, you just tried to protect yourself. But if that were true, why would you approach me in the first place? After all, it appears that you are after a husband.”

“Maybe I’m not always after that.”

They were so close, Adrian could see tiny speckles of gold in Edward’s eyes. He could kiss him, right there, stop him from talking nonsense, but that wouldn’t be right. Some things had to be said.

“Bullshit,” Adrian said, getting dangerously close.

Edward didn’t waver. “Believe what you want. I played fair.”

“Like hell you did. Tell me, Edward, what are you afraid of, hmm?”

“Afraid?”

“Let me tell you if you’re so hard-headed that you don’t want to admit. You’re afraid of commitment. You want to have your cake and eat it. You’re not sure that you could give up on your parents’ wealth for the sake of love.” Adrian was getting worked up with each word. Good thing the restaurant wasn’t packed, and so far, there had been no interruptions from other patrons. He got into Edward’s face to deliver the final blow. “You told me to be the man because you’re afraid to be one.” With that, he took a step back. “I think I got my answer.”

“You got nothing. You talked and talked.” Edward had blanched during Adrian’s speech, to the point that now he looked alarmingly pale. “You have no idea what I’m afraid of.”

“Oh, really? Then why don’t you illuminate me, Your Majesty?”

Edward seemed to hesitate for a moment.

“Spit it out,” Adrian said abruptly. “I’ve already lost all my sleeping hours this week because of you.”

That appeared to surprise Edward, which was strange, seeing that Christian had pointed out loud that they both had matching dark circles. Could it be that Edward doubted his feelings? After Adrian had practically bitten a big fat bullet to say those cheesy words that, as lame as they were, told the truth and nothing but?

“I’m afraid,” Edward said slowly, punctuating every word, “that you’re like everyone else.”

Adrian remained dumbfounded for a moment, although he had suspected as much during their little conversation. “Pardon my French, Your Majesty, but are you fucking stupid?”

“Insulting me won’t get you anywhere. It is my right to maintain an illusion if that’s what it takes.”

Adrian moved and took Edward’s hand. It was cold and clammy. “Put me through that frigging test.”

“It’s not a test. Christian is talking nonsense. My family is looking out for me.”

“Which I can and am willing to do. Even better than them,” Adrian said, fully aware of the aggressiveness in his voice.

Edward appeared as if his determination succumbed under Adrian’s assault. But then, he shook his head. “I liked you, Adrian. Allow me to have that. And you talk like someone who has never been truly tempted. I apologize, but I will not let you go through it.”

“You must be kidding me,” Adrian said under his breath. “I want you. Isn’t it enough?”

Edward pulled his hand free and let out a coarse laugh. “You’re not the kind to marry. What are you even talking about?”

“I’d marry you,” Adrian said with nonchalance.

Edward sighed, and some of his usual control returned. “I don’t need you to mess up my life just so that you can prove a point. This is goodbye, Adrian, for real. Please leave me alone.”

Adrian wanted to argue some more, but someone came in. Edward warned him with his eyes. Well, he got some answers, and a new idea was taking root in his mind. He hurried out without saying another word to Edward.

Christian waved at him, the moment he saw him. “How did it go?” he asked excitedly.

“If I give you my number, will you call me?” Adrian interrupted him.

Christian nodded and stole a look behind Adrian. For his plan to be flawless, he didn’t need Edward to catch a whiff of what he was planning. He placed one card on the table, and Christian grabbed it swiftly. At least, there was someone in that family Adrian sensed he would like very much.

Without another word or look behind, he was out. When he had said that he would win the game for Edward, he had told the truth.

***

Some of what Edward had said about having his Sundays filled with obligations made sense now, Adrian thought after his conversation with Christian. The kid was fun, and Adrian had ended up spending a couple of hours talking to him on the phone. His plan had been received with a lot of enthusiasm, and Adrian felt comforted by the thought that he had an ally behind the enemy lines. Jared and Mike both had called to check on him, both careful about his feelings, but Adrian no longer felt like moping, and his best friends didn’t need to worry.

He felt guilty for being tight-lipped with them about his plan, but this time, when he invited everyone over, it had to be to announce his victory. Also, something else. A grin curled his lips as he thought about how shocked they would all be once he told them the big news.

But he shouldn’t celebrate before climbing in the ring. There were many things to put in order, such as spending a small fortune on a new suit. After all, he needed to make an excellent first impression on his future in-laws.

***

“I’m close,” Adrian said after greeting the person on the other end.

“Wait for me. I’ll come get you,” Christian whispered in an urgent tone.

Adrian parked at a fair distance from the estate. The Hastings were even bigger shots than he had imagined, so there was no way he would be allowed to pull in the driveway just like that. The surprise element was essential and having Christian working as an inside agent was part of the plan.

He had to wait for almost ten minutes, during which he nervously checked himself in the rearview mirror. Usually, he was proud of his looks, but now he was anxious like a kid on his first day in a new school. This wasn’t his crowd; as charming as he could be, he doubted the people he would meet soon could be that easy to sway.

Christian emerged from behind the high gates, hands in his pockets, his hair as rebellious as the first time they met. He was grinning ear to ear, and it looked like he was happy for something to happen since the Sunday affairs at the Hastings, as he had told Adrian, were self-harm-inducing boring.

He knocked playfully on the car window, and Adrian lowered it so that they could speak.

“Everything all right?” He tried to rein in the anxiety he felt.

Christian offered him a huge smile. “Now would be a good moment to introduce yourself to the family. They are having dessert, and about half of them are already dozing off.” He yawned, pressing a hand over his mouth in an exaggerated gesture.

“How am I going to pass through those gates? I noticed that there is someone manning them. Did Edward’s folks never heard of automated systems?”

“Don’t worry about that. I sent the porter on a fool’s errand, and we have enough time to squeeze you in. But leave the car here; you might need it as a getaway vehicle.”

“Now you’re making me feel a bit uneasy. Will Edward’s dad hunt me down with a rifle from the Second World War or something?”

Christian shrugged, but it looked like he could enjoy that kind of event. “Let’s go. If we meet anyone on the way, I’ll just say you’re a friend of mine.”

“I thought you said this day-long lunches are for family only.”

“Yes, but no one can say rules can’t be bent.”

“Christian, I feel like I need to ask you. Are you sure? Once we’re inside, you could pretend you don’t know me.”

Christian offered a smirk in return. “And risk having you thrown out before getting a chance to light up the seat of their pants? No way. I’m your ride-or-die.” He stretched his arm, hand made into a fist.

Adrian climbed out of the car and pushed his fist into Christian’s, determined not to leave him hanging.

There was so much pride in Christian’s eyes and admiration that Adrian felt a bit embarrassed.

“That was my first brofist,” Christian announced.

Adrian could understand why the kid liked to gossip. It looked like there weren’t many ways for him to have fun. That would change. Once he and Edward --

He shook his head. The war was far from over. He was heading toward the battlefield right now, with nothing on his side by absurd bravery and a deep desire burning hot for a man called Edward Hastings.

The family estate was far more impressive than Edward’s mansion, but Adrian didn’t waste any time to observe the grandeur of the place. What he wanted more than everything was to extract Edward from it and make him his.

Christian became stiffer as they walked inside. A few members of the personnel greeted them in passing, but no one asked about Adrian’s presence. However, a few curious looks landed on him, and Adrian couldn’t stop thinking that the people hired there appeared ready to look down on him if they knew that he didn’t belong there. He played a few snarky remarks in his mind and followed Christian to a large impressive door that supposedly led to the dining room.

“Ready?” Christian whispered.

“I was born ready,” Adrian said with a smirk.

Christian encouraged him with a smile. They stepped inside, and, for a couple of moments, Adrian froze as he took in the opulence of the place. There was even a crystal chandelier hanging from the ceiling, above the long table, at which around twenty people or so sat. Classical music played softly in the background, and the murmured conversation stopped when he entered. Pairs and pairs of curious eyes glued to him.

“Good afternoon,” Adrian said politely. “My name is Adrian Rossi, and I’m here to talk to Mr. Charles Hastings on an important matter.”

The silence continued.

“What is this nonsense?” Someone spoke from the head of the table, at the far end from Adrian.

Suddenly, the murmurs were back, echoing the words of the head of the family.

“Adrian’s with me, uncle Charles,” Christian intervened. “You’ll want to listen to what he has to say.”

Charles stood up, and Adrian had the chance for a good look at him. A man in his sixties, he carried himself like true royalty. His white hair was cut short, without any military rigor, and he appeared to be in perfect shape for his age. Everyone else at the table seemed to be suddenly small, despite him not being a particularly tall man. “And why didn’t Mr. Rossi choose to approach me on a workday?”

Adrian scanned the room, looking for Edward. He sat somewhere in the middle, between two old relatives. His face was white as a sheet, and Adrian pondered briefly over whether he wasn’t about to commit a severe mistake. No, he didn’t have time to second-guess himself. It wasn’t like he was outing Edward to the family. All he wanted was a word with the head of the family. It was needed to prove to Edward that he had meant everything and that he was willing to go the extra mile to prove it.

“This isn’t about business, uncle Charles,” Christian said. “It’s about the family.”

Charles appeared to frown slightly, although, from that distance, Adrian couldn’t read his face well. “I suppose this is unconventional, but please, let’s step into my office, Mr. Rossi.”

Christian nudged Adrian to move, as it seemed that he needed to go behind the row of chairs to follow Charles through a side door. Edward stood up and began walking behind them at a fast pace. “What on earth do you think you’re doing?” he hissed.

Adrian didn’t bother to reply. He walked out of the room with both Christian and Edward in tow. Charles already waited for him in front of another door. “Edward,” he said in an emotionless voice. “What is this about?”

“It concerns me, father,” Edward replied.

A small sign of recognition appeared on Charles’s face. “I see. Let’s get this over with, then. You can go back and entertain our guests, Edward. You, too, Christian. This is between Mr. Rossi and I. And my checkbook,” he added under his breath.

Adrian set his jaw hard. Christian didn’t know the details of the so-called test, but he had a hunch that it wasn’t necessarily about disowning Edward. Whatever Charles hinted at made much more sense. As much as Edward liked to think that his parents had come to terms with his choice of partners, Adrian sensed that it couldn’t be completely true.

He followed Charles into the room, the head of the house called his office. It was as magnificent as the rest of the property Adrian had seen so far, but, again, he didn’t plan on gawking and acting like an uncultured monkey.

He stood, waiting to be told to sit down. Charles was already at his desk, scribbling something in what, indeed, looked like a checkbook. “Don’t bother with that, Mr. Hastings.”

“Hmm?” Charles looked like he couldn’t be bothered to listen.

“I’m not here for your money.”

“Adrian,” Edward called from behind. “Please, don’t make a scene.”

“Edward, I thought I told you something,” Charles said in the same grave voice from before. “Christian, this is not something you should witness.”

It was so strange for all three of them to stand, close to the door, while Charles sat at his desk. The balance of power was evident. Too bad Adrian didn’t care for such things.

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Christian said.

Adrian could tell the kid was grinning without looking at him.

“Close the door,” Charles ordered shortly. He continued to scribble down in his checkbook. “Here you go, Mr. Rossi,” he said and stretched out his hand. “I think you will find the pay acceptable.”

Adrian made no move to take the check. “As I said, Mr. Hastings, I’m not here to take your money. I have plenty of my own.”

“Really?” Charles quirked an eyebrow. “And what do you do for a living?”

“I work in advertising. I’m the Advertising Sales Director at the company I’m working for. And I’m just twenty-six years old. In a couple of years’ time, I hope to get my own company on its feet.”

“A working man,” Charles said with a small smile. “If it’s not a check you want, perhaps you would be interested in some recommendations. A few accounts would offer you a nice start, I suppose.”

“No,” Adrian said. “I’m not here to network, sir.”

Charles let the check fall on the table. He shifted in his chair and stared at Adrian with new eyes. “What are you here for?”

Edward reached for him and caught his elbow. “Adrian, whatever you think you’re doing, stop. And you, Christian --”

“Just to make it clear,” Charles began, “is Mr. Rossi one of your male lovers, Edward?”

There was no disdain in how the words were said; they were just cold and measured.

Adrian shook off Edward’s touch. He was still plenty angry with him. “Yes, as a matter of fact, I am Edward’s boyfriend,” he replied.

“Boyfriend.” Charles frowned for a second, then his features smoothed out in a neutral expression. “If you please, Mr. Rossi, name your price. As you can see, I have allowed enough already. Our guests are waiting.”

Adrian looked one second at Edward. It was all he needed to strengthen his resolve. He was pissed as hell, but he knew, without the shadow of a doubt, why he was there. He turned toward Charles. “I don’t have a price, sir. What I want is your son’s hand in marriage.” Adrian felt a bit stupid saying the words as if they played in a historical drama, and any moment now, the twenty-first century would come bursting through the door.

His words fell like bricks in the silence of the room.

“Adrian, have you lost your mind?” Edward was the first to explode.

“It’s all right where it’s supposed to be. You shut up now, while I discuss with your father about this important matter.”

Charles’s eyes grew wide. Adrian could swear he could hear Edward grinding his teeth. Well, he deserved to be put in place after assuming that easily that Adrian would be a sellout.

“This is so touching,” Christian intervened. “I need to document this for all eternity.”

“Christian, put away that phone or I’ll have you swallow it,” Charles boomed, taking everyone by surprise. “Get out now. You’re too young to hear what I’m about to say.”

Christian mumbled something, but he opened the door. “I can be your getaway driver,” he whispered to Adrian before leaving the room.

Well, at least the ‘ride’ part was true in the ‘ride-or-die’ comment Christian had made earlier. But Adrian couldn’t blame him. It looked like Charles Hastings wasn’t someone who could be ignored when giving a direct order. Too bad, he couldn’t order Adrian around.

“What is this absurdity?” Charles started, as soon as Christian was gone. His eyes moved from Adrian to Edward and back at him.

“I don’t care if you choose to disown Edward,” Adrian said fearlessly. “All I want is him.”

Charles blinked a couple of times. “I thought the foolish idea of marrying a man had long fled your mind, Edward.” He turned his attention to his son.

“Adrian doesn’t speak for me, father.”

“Then what is he doing here?” An unpleasant sneer appeared on the older Mr. Hastings’s face.

“I’m here exactly for the reason I presented you,” Adrian said stubbornly. If Edward was a coward, he wasn’t. “I want to marry your son.”

“He doesn’t wish to marry you,” Charles pointed out. “It appears that you’re overstaying your welcome, young man.” He appeared relaxed now.

Adrian didn’t plan on letting the matter go. “He does. He’s just afraid to go against you.”

Charles smirked in satisfaction. “Like any son who truly respects his parents.”

“How many relationships have you ruined for Edward, Mr. Hastings?” Adrian asked.

The question appeared to catch Charles off guard. “Edward has no business marrying a man. I don’t care if other people think such travesty has a place in the world.”

Adrian could feel the tension in his jaw growing. Yet, he kept on a pleasant demeanor. “How about you allow Edward to speak for himself?”

“Nobody keeps him from speaking. He just doesn’t have anything to say.”

Adrian turned to face Edward. He was pale and barely kept it in. He hated to do anything to hurt him right now, but Adrian needed to know. “Don’t you have anything to say, Edward? Is it true what your father says, that he has never ruined anything for you? How many of your lovers did he corrupt with money?”

Edward was paperwhite now. Adrian bore his eyes into his. No matter how painful it was, a moment of truth was needed.

Edward didn’t look away from him. “Three ... No, four.”

The words were barely uttered. Adrian turned with a triumphant expression on his face toward Charles. “See? Your son does have something to say, after all.”

Charles frowned. “I am already tired of this nonsense. Why did you have to take such a stubborn one to bed this time, Edward?”

Adrian had a few ideas about the reasons, but he wouldn’t scandalize his future father-in-law by opening his mouth on the topic.

“Fine. I’ll go on a limb here and assume that you know how to play your cards, Mr. Rossi.” Charles began writing another check.

“Don’t bother, Mr. Hastings,” Adrian said.

“I will show you, Edward, for the umpteenth time, what these men are made of,” Charles said, pretending to be deaf to Adrian’s words. “Here, Mr. Rossi. It’s enough to open three companies, not one.” Adrian didn’t move. Charles waved the check as if he could lure Adrian with it. “Take one look at it. You might think that I’m trying to fool you, but I’m not. It’s good to cash in right now. Take it.”

Adrian was starting to get bored with Charles’s display. He took the check, looked at it, recited the amount out loud, and then put it back in front of Charles. “Sorry, still not interested. Edward is the one I want. Just agree and let’s part amiably. I promise you won’t have to see me, ever again.”

Charles’s face smoothed again. He began talking, offering Adrian obscene promises, all the while his eyes glinting. Adrian tuned it all out and started yawning. He put a hand to his mouth. “Is this how you lost the others?” he asked Edward, who stood there with a pained expression on his face.

Adrian had never seen him so messed up. That needed correction.

At his question, Edward just nodded meekly.

Adrian turned toward Charles, who didn’t appear to be capable of stopping talking bullshit. “Well, you’re not going to lose me,” he said to Edward, his eyes never leaving Charles. “I don’t care about any of this stuff.”

Charles seemed to finally relent. “I see. Your stubborness is absurd. But all of this doesn’t matter since Edward doesn’t plan on marrying you, anyway. I think we’re done here, Mr. Rossi. I suppose you don’t want to walk out of here, escorted like some petty criminal.”

“I’ll be out of your hair in a moment,” Adrian promised. “There’s one last thing I have to do.”

Edward’s mouth went slack when Adrian went down on one knee and offered the small square box that had been in his pocket for the entire day. “Edward Hastings, I’m going to ask you in this stupid cheesy manner, only this time. Will you ditch your fancy life, and come live with me? I promise we won’t end eating only ramen or other non-nutritious meals.”

“What are you asking, idiot?” Edward mumbled, but his eyes were soft like Adrian had never seen them.

“Will you marry me, asshole?” Adrian replied in kind. “This is what I’m asking. And hurry, because this position sucks balls and not in a fun way.”

Charles gasped in what had to be outrage. Probably no one ever talked like that under that roof. Well, there were first times for everything, including Adrian Rossi going on one knee and saying corny stuff.

“Edward, please tell your acquaintance that my patience is running thin.”

“I won’t get up until I hear an answer,” Adrian said. “Yes or no, Edward. What will it be?”

“Just tell him ‘no’ already and end this tasteless display,” Charles said in disgust.

“Yes,” Edward said.

“Then hurry,” Charles said. “You don’t have to confirm everything I’m telling you. Just go ahead and --”

Adrian grinned. “Sorry, sir, but your son just replied to my question.”

Edward was still white as a sheet, but he took the box from Adrian’s hand.

“Edward!” Charles was, apparently, flabbergasted and overwhelmed by the course of events. “You can’t be serious.”

Edward threw one look at Adrian, who stood up, wincing. “I’m afraid I am, dad.”

“Edward, stop this nonsense right now!”

“Let’s go, Edward.” Adrian grabbed his boyfriend’s hand and pulled him toward the door. “We have the getaway car waiting for us.”

“Edward, get back here this instant!”

Adrian didn’t wait to hear more of that. He rushed through the door, hand in hand with Edward.

“Will anyone stop us?” He broke into a sprint, forcing Edward to keep up. “Which way can we get out of here faster?”

Edward took the lead, and Adrian was the one to follow. Apparently, there was a shortcut, and soon they were out of the house.

“Where is your car?” Edward asked, his voice tensed.

“Parked outside,” Adrian replied.

The porter tried to stop them. “Mr. Edward, please --”

“Sorry, man, we can’t stay and chat,” Adrian dodged him, and Edward just murmured something as he followed his example.

A happy honk let him know that his ride-or-die was behind the wheel, as promised. Something was wrong with that picture, but Adrian didn’t have the time to stop and think. Adrian and Edward climbed quickly in the backseat.

“Pedal to the metal, partner,” Adrian said.

“What did he say?” Christian asked.

“He said ‘yes’!” Adrian replied victoriously.

Christian shouted from the top of his lungs as he kicked the engine into gear.

“Oh, damn, are you guys insane?” Edward protested. “No one’s really coming --”

“Oh, shut up already.” Adrian pressed his lips against Edward’s mouth. He had missed that.

Edward struggled against him, much to his annoyance. One would have thought that once he had said ‘yes’, Edward would be less of a pain in the butt.

Adrian tried to kiss him again. Edward kept him away. “Christian doesn’t have a license!”

“What?! Christian!” Adrian sobered up instantly. “Stop the car immediately!” Another realization hit him. “And how the hell did you get the keys?”

“I picked your pocket,” Christian replied, completely unfazed and pleased with himself.

“Where did you get this cousin of yours?” Adrian turned toward Edward. “Juvie?”

Edward just shrugged.

“Stop the car, Christian,” Adrian commanded in the more commandeering voice he could muster.

“Just one more minute,” Christian begged. “And I know how to drive.”

“Now, Christian, or you’re not my partner anymore.”

That appeared to convince Christian to stop the car. He groaned and put his head on the wheel. “And I was looking forward to be chased by the police.”

“Where has the kid lived until now?” Adrian asked. “Chased by the police means being caught by the police, Christian.”

Christian moved from the driver’s seat, making room for him to climb behind the wheel.

“That could be fun, too.”

Adrian shook his head and smiled. Another smile met him in the rearview mirror.

TBC