Teach Me Bad - 14. Fri, Sat: Trent

After Trent got off the phone with Kayden, he finished his dinner, then sat listlessly in the living room while he dreaded going out.

Ivy had been hysterical on the ride back to the dorm. She’d been on campus less than twenty-four hours and already she was losing it. Her grades were slipping, her friends had stopped being her friends, and she was still wildly in love with Trent. When they’d gotten back to her place, she’d pleaded with him for five long minutes to come upstairs with her.

Trent was horny, to be honest. He hadn’t gotten his rocks off once today, and for a minute there, he’d been close to giving into her feverish demands for sex. But Kayden’s beautiful little face had popped into his mind and he’d stopped himself before he made a huge mistake.

“Get the fuck out of my truck before I drag you out by your hair!” Trent had shouted, and Ivy had hopped out on the curb in tears.

“Please don’t leave me,” she wailed, but Trent had driven away, tense and angry.

The fake dating wasn’t working. Ivy was even more crazy than before and fighting tooth and nail for his affections. He knew he hadn’t seen the last of her, and he wasn’t looking forward to their next run-in.

Trent scowled at the TV. Sports news had been on for the past hour, but he hadn’t been paying attention. He so wasn’t in the mood for a party. He took his phone out and sent Maggie a text. Hey. Something came up. I don’t know if I can come tonight.

There was a reply almost instantly. Trent, please, don’t do this to me.

I’m not in the mood, Maggie.

Everyone’s really excited you're coming, she texted back. I got weed for you.

Trent checked the time. It was a few minutes after seven. He was supposed to be at the sorority house in less than thirty minutes. Fine. But I can’t come until late. And I can only stay for a few minutes.

Just come when you can, Maggie replied. I’ll be waiting for you.

Trent sighed and put his phone away. Kayden had been nagging him about this damn party since he’d found out and he just wanted to skip it. He’d been hoping to bed Maggie, purely out of convenience, but there was no way he was going to do it now. Not after Kayden had accused him of planning to do just that.

It really seemed like a bad idea to go. There would be many temptations and Trent wasn’t good at resisting…

Antsy, he got off the couch, grabbed a water from the kitchen, then went to the gym.

For the next hour and a half, he ran on the treadmill, pumping his arms as hard as he could while his feet pounded below him. Sweat ran from his brow in rivulets, but his breath was even and smooth. He kept his eyes straight ahead as he worked out. His thoughts were clear and his mind calm.

It was well past eight when Lucas poked his head through the door. He seemed surprised to see Trent working out, and he stepped into the room with a faint smile on his lips. “I thought you were with Mitch. He left for Seth’s about an hour ago.”

“Nope,” Trent grunted, pushing himself to keep jogging. “I’m going to the Chi Omega house in a little bit. Once I finish up here, anyway.”

“The Chi Omega house?” Lucas stopped in front of the treadmill and watched Trent run, his eyes slowly traveling up and down his lean body.

“I’m dating the head of house,” Trent sighed and hit the power button, so the belt slowed to a stop below him. “It’s supposed to scare Ivy off, but it hasn’t been working so far.”

Lucas’s smile fell away. “What about Kayden?”

“What about him? I can’t publicly date a boy,” Trent said sourly. “This was the next best option.”

“Why can’t you publicly date him?”

“Because I can’t!” Trent jumped off the treadmill and grabbed a spare towel off the weight set. “Think of the paparazzi that’ll swarm the house if I come out as a homo. The press will have a field day with me.”

“Like that pregnancy scare in high school?”

Trent wiped the sweat from his face with a growl. “That was embarrassing. And it pissed Chase off. He fucking beat my ass good for that one.”

Lucas shook his head. “He can’t do that to you anymore if that’s what you’re afraid of.”

“It’s not!” Trent snapped. “I just…don’t want to be in the spotlight. And especially for something negative like being gay.”

“Being gay isn’t negative,” Lucas said. “It’s become widely accepted and it’s celebrated all over the world. It’s nothing to be ashamed about.”

“For one,” Trent sneered, tossing the towel aside for Lizzie to clean up. “I’m not gay, I just happen to be fucking a guy. And two, I don’t want my business to be public knowledge.”

“Trent…all of us know what’s going on.”

“That’s because I don’t care what you retards think of me!”

Lucas’s lips twitched upward in amusement.

“I wanted to ask you something actually.” Trent crossed his arms. “I need you to get some information for me.”

“Yeah?”

“I need you to find out as much as you can about a guy named Jacob,” Trent said in a deep voice. “He’s got dark hair, I think he’s a freshman, and he’s on the football team. But that’s all I know.”

Lucas stroked his chin in consideration. “That shouldn’t be too hard. How many freshmen named Jacob are on the team?”

Trent shrugged.

“So, who’s Jacob?” Lucas asked curiously. “Another guy you’re interested in?”

“No.” Trent made a face. “He’s messing with Kayden and I’m going to pay him a visit as soon as I find out what his schedule looks like.”

“Oh. That’s actually kind of sweet.”

“Kayden’s my property,” Trent said firmly. “I’m not letting anyone come between us.”

“Except the girls, you mean.”

Trent glared at him. “Fuck you, Lucas.”

“Well, does Kayden know you’re going to the sorority house?”

“Yes. And he’s pissed about it, but it has to be done,” Trent said tightly. “I saw Ivy just a couple hours ago. She showed up randomly, crying and begging for me to talk to her, and she was really upset when I said I was going to a party with the head of her old sorority house. She’ll get the hint soon enough. I guess.”

Lucas sighed. “If that’s what you think is best…”

“Oh, and another thing. My mom’s coming to stay sometime this weekend. I have to pick her up from the hospital.”

Lucas smiled faintly. “I’ll tell the others.”

Trent brushed around him. “I’m gonna take a shower. I’ve got to go.”

“I’ll find out about Jacob for you,” Lucas called after him. “As soon as I can.”

“Thanks,” Trent tossed over his shoulder, then exited the room.

Upstairs, he took a long, luxurious shower, then changed into a simple pair of black jeans and a fitted tee. He fixed his hair, then went to his room and spent the next twenty minutes on his laptop ordering a new mattress for the guest bed.

Earlier in the year, he and Mitch had hosted a small orgy in the pool house. The bed was on the newer side, but it had seen better days. He paid extra for express delivery, then used Chase’s credit card to complete the purchase. The bed would arrive on Sunday morning and he shut his laptop with a warm sense of responsibility.

The feeling faded as he thought about Maggie and the party. It was past nine, and he figured he’d better head over for a little bit. He’d said he’d would, after all…

With a sigh, Trent grabbed his keys, stepped into his shoes, then left the house.

***

The party was raging at the Chi Omega house. All the windows were lit up, the music was loud –even from the curb – and there was a huge crowd. The activities had spilled outside, and a group of students, girls and guys, were drinking on the front lawn from red Solo cups.

Trent found a place to park on the street, then hopped out with a scowl on his face. As he walked through the throng of partygoers, he heard his name called a couple times, but he headed straight inside. He didn’t want to talk to anyone.

Inside, he made a right for the living room. The music blasted from a set of speakers under the window, and a pair of sophomore girls danced suggestively in front of them with their arms around each other and their groins bumping together. A cluster of young men watched the show from the sidelines. They were drinking from the red cups, too, and Trent scanned the room for the beer supply.

“I didn’t think you’d ever show up.” Maggie appeared at his elbow and slipped her arms around his waist.

Trent grunted in surprise. “Where’d you come from?”

“Upstairs.” Maggie hugged him tight. “There was an incident with one of the freshmen girls…Maybe it’s best you didn’t show up until now.”

Trent shrugged out of her embrace. “I was just looking for the beer. Can you get me one?”

“Sure.”

Trent watched the girl slip away into the crowd, thinking he’d have a drink or two, then leave. The party was in full swing. Maybe ten different girls were hanging around the couches, laughing and drinking together. There were more frat boys in the back, playing a game on the big screen, and their loud conversations clashed disharmoniously with the pop music wafting through the room.

“Hey Trent,” said a blonde girl as she entered from the hall. She was slim with firm breasts, and Trent was pretty sure he recognized her from last year. He nodded in her direction but said nothing as she breezed past and went to join her friends on the couch. Trent crossed his arms and waited impatiently for Maggie’s return. He was uncomfortable, and he just wanted to leave.

When the girl appeared again, she had two red cups and tried to draw him into the crowd. “My friends saved us some seats over there.”

“I don’t want to sit.” Trent took his drink with a frown. “I already told you I can only stay for a minute.”

Maggie planted her hand on her hip. “And what do you have to do at ten pm on a Friday night that’s so important?”

“My mom’s in the hospital, actually,” Trent drawled, taking a sip of his beer. “There’s a lot going on at the house right now.”

Maggie dropped her hand. “Oh.”

“And I don’t think this fake dating thing is working anyway,” Trent said darkly. “Ivy stalked me most of the day. She accosted me twice.”

“Give her a few days to adjust. She just got back.”

“And she’s crazier than ever,” Trent growled. “Do you really think she’s going to just…forget about me?”

“She’ll have to,” Maggie said. “Or her parents will have to come pick her up again. She can’t act like this for long. Someone will report her.”

“Who? You?”

“Maybe.”

“I’m sick of avoiding that bitch,” Trent said, then finished his beer in a large gulp. “I’ve got better shit to do then dodge some stupid freshman.”

“Trent…she’s not here. Try to relax.” Maggie touched Trent’s bicep, then squeezed it suggestively. “I could help you, if you’d like.”

Trent pulled away from her. “No thanks.”

Maggie pouted. “Trent…”

“I’m not in the mood for this.” Trent handed Maggie his cup. “I’ve got to deal with my mom at some point this weekend and I’ve got tests all next week. I’m tired. I just want to go home.”

“Go home?” Maggie’s eyes got wide. “But…it’s so early.”

“Did you hear what I just said?” Trent snapped. “I’m tired. I’ve got a lot of shit to do this weekend.”

“But…you can stay here if you’re tired,” Maggie said. “We can go upstairs right now if you want. I got something for us to smoke. Come on…it’ll be fun.”

“You’re not listening to me,” Trent growled. “I don’t want to.”

Maggie opened her mouth, then wordlessly shut it.

“I’ll see you around,” Trent murmured, then turned for the door.

“Trent…wait!”

“Fuck off,” Trent growled over his shoulder, then stalked out of the room. He’d been inside less than five minutes and he felt like it’d been much too long. He exited the house and barreled through the partygoers on the lawn.

“Hey, man!” a frat boy yelled as Trent darted past. “Where are you going?”

“I’m out of here,” Trent called after the unknown acquaintance. He wasn’t even interested in seeing who it was.

“Oh, okay…”

Trent cut across the street and hurried to his truck. He climbed in and got behind the wheel with a sigh of relief. He had his own shit to smoke, and after sitting in the silence for a moment he leaned over the armrest and grabbed his little cigarette case from the glove box. There were two neatly rolled blunts inside, and he lit up the first one and leaned back in his seat as smoke billowed around him.

The distant music from the sorority house vibrated the windows. The sound of laughter and playful banter rolled from the lawn, and Trent started the engine with a cringe. He didn’t want to be here anymore, and he pulled away from the curb with the blunt dangling from his lips. His own music started to play as he coasted down the street.

How the fuck am I supposed to tell you that I need you?

I need a second to think what you dug in

Running away again

How the fuck am I supposed to tell you that

I want you when all I know is I never want it to end?

Running away again

How the fuck am I supposed to tell you that

I love you when I just really discovered what love is?

Running away again

Trent took another casual puff off his blunt as he reached the end of Cowell Lane. A crazy idea had just popped into his head and he paused to take out his cellphone. Kayden was the first contact on the list, and Trent dialed his number without a second thought. He needed the little Korean like air. It was the only thing he desired right now.

“Hello?”

Trent tossed his phone onto the passenger seat as the truck’s speakers took over the call. “Hey, baby. I just left the party.”

“You did?” Kayden sounded amazed. “I figured you’d be there much later.”

“Nope. I’m done for the night.”

“Wow…are you going home?”

“That was the plan,” Trent said as he took a right onto Campus Drive. “But I’d rather come to your house.”

“M-my house?”

“Today’s been a weird day,” Trent murmured. “I mean, I didn’t even get off once.”

Kayden giggled. “You poor thing.”

“Let me come over,” Trent urged. “I’m five minutes away.”

“Both my parents are downstairs.”

“We’ll be really quiet,” Trent said. “They won’t even know I’m there.”

Kayden hesitated, then, “Okay. I’ll open the window for you.”

“Yes.” Trent pumped his fist. “This is going to be great!”

“Okay…but we’ve got to be really quiet.”

“Right.”

“I love you, Trent,” Kayden crooned, and Trent smiled hugely.

“I love you, too, Kayden Lee. See you soon.”

Kayden ended the call as Trent took another puff off the blunt. He thought fondly about Kayden’s beautiful ass as the music resumed, and the beats flowed through his body. It would be the perfect way to end the day. He couldn’t wait to fuck.

He made another right onto Serra Street and headed toward Embarcadero. In just minutes, he would be inside Kayden’s tight heat and he stepped on the gas and sped into Palo Alto, eager to get his rocks off.

***

Trent parked down the street from Kayden’s house, then shut off the engine. He finished the blunt while he scanned the cul-de-sac for activity. It was getting close to eleven and the residential neighborhood was peaceful and quiet.

The front window at Kayden’s was lit up, but all the others were dark. The porch light was off, too, and Trent took that as a good sign. He got out, flicked his cigarette into the grass, then started silently toward the house.

Around back, Trent saw Kayden’s bedroom window was wide open. He loped across the patio, grabbed a pool chair, then carried it back to the side of the house. Kayden poked his head out the window as he climbed up on the chair.

“Hi,” he said shyly.

“Move out of the way,” Trent hissed. “I’m coming in.” Kayden disappeared and Trent grabbed onto the window ledge and lifted himself through. He landed on his knees on the carpet inside.

Kayden watched him with a faint smile on his face. “You made that look so incredibly easy.”

“It is.” Trent stood and towered over him with a grin. “If you’ve got some upper body strength, that is.”

“Which you most definitely do.” Kayden’s gaze roamed over Trent’s upper body with appreciation.

“You look awfully cozy,” Trent smirked down at him. Kayden was in a pair of soft PJ pants, a white undershirt, and his feet were bare. “Where you going to bed?”

“I was trying to,” Kayden whispered. “But I had my phone on vibrate, right under my pillow.”

“Cute.” Trent reached out a hand and stroked his fingers through Kayden’s hair. “You were waiting for me.”

“Of course I was.”

Trent drew Kayden closer and looped his arms around his waist. “I was only at that party for a couple minutes. I wasn’t in the mood.”

“Mmm.”

“I wanted you.”

Kayden’s dark eyes shimmered in the moonlight. “Trent…”

Smirking, Trent bent his head and claimed his lips. The sweetest, most delicious taste he’d ever experienced filled his mouth, and he pulled Kayden closer and deepened the kiss. The breeze through the window was warm against Trent’s skin, and he pushed his fingers through Kayden’s hair and tilted his head back to get more access to his mouth.

Kayden made the sexiest sounds as he was kissed. He moaned softly into Trent’s mouth as his tiny body began to tremble with desire. He swayed helplessly into Trent’s body, and grabbed onto his hips to steady himself.

Trent let the kiss linger for another moment, then he swept Kayden’s legs out from under him and lifted him bridal style. He carried the boy to the bed and set him gently on the mattress.

“Oh,” Kayden blinked up at Trent in surprise.

“Lay back, baby. I’ll take care of you,” Trent murmured, stroking Kayden’s downy cheek with his fingers.

Kayden’s eyes fell partway shut with a groan, and he laid back on the pillow, leaving his body open for Trent’s exploration.

Trent knelt on the edge of the bed. “Lift up,” he said, sliding his fingers under Kayden’s t-shirt, and Kayden sat up obligingly and allowed him to remove it. “Now your hips,” Trent said, and Kayden, blushing, raised his hips to let Trent slide his pants down.

Kayden’s skin was silky soft, and pale white under the moonlight. Trent ran his fingers along the smooth expanse, luxuriating in the feel of his warmth. Kayden watched him in silence. His bottom lip was secured between his teeth, and his whole body was tight with arousal. The length between his thighs was hard and poking up straight.

“So needy…” Trent skimmed his hand down and took Kayden’s cock in his fist. With a firm grip, he began to stroke the shaft.

Kayden gasped and his eyes fell shut. “Ooooh.”

“I’ve been needing your sweet little body all day,” Trent murmured, pulling Kayden’s cock with expertise, paying special attention to the sensitive head. “I couldn’t wait until tomorrow.”

“Aya,” Kayden whined. “Trent!”

“Mmm.” One handed, Trent pulled his t-shirt over his head, then started on his fly. “Do you got lube in here?”

“I-I’ve got my mom’s baby oil. In my dresser.”

Trent let go of Kayden’s cock and bounced off the bed. “Top drawer?”

“Bottom,” Kayden whispered.

Trent pulled open the bottom drawer and rooted through a set of neatly folded khakis before he found the baby oil at the very bottom. He grabbed it, then stood to step out of his sneakers and jeans. His cock sprang upwards, rock hard, and ready for action, and he looked up when he heard a gasp.

Kayden stared at his erection, his face full of rapture, and Trent strode closer with a smirk, = cock swinging before him. Kayden watched the whole way and eagerly spread his thighs for Trent's perusal when he stopped next to the bed.

Trent saw Kayden’s asshole was lubricated and stuffed with the plug. The soft, pink muscle was clenched tight around the green-jeweled base. It was a beautiful sight, and he smiled. “Looks like you’re ready.”

“Yesss…” Kayden squeezed around the plug and it moved inside of him. “I’m ready.”

Trent climbed on the bed and settled between Kayden’s legs. Slowly, he drew the plug out of his body, then set it aside.

Kayden groaned as he was emptied. “Oooh, Trent…” His tiny asshole spasmed in search for something to grab onto.

Trent kept his eyes on the clenching muscle as he opened the baby oil and poured some on his straining erection. “You want this cock, baby?” He pumped the length a few times, spreading the oil along his swollen shaft.

“Oh god, yes.” Kayden tilted his head back and stroked his bare foot along Trent’s thigh. “Please fuck me…”

Trent took Kayden’s cute, little foot in his large hand and hitched his leg over his shoulder. The move exposed Kayden’s needy hole to the maximum, and Trent inched closer, so his greasy cock rubbed the puckered entrance. Then, slowly, he pushed inside.

Kayden hissed as he was entered, and his body fought to adjust to Trent’s size. His muscles spasmed like crazy, but he groaned deliriously and urged Trent deeper with his free leg around his hip. His eyes rolled up in his head as Trent moved over his prostate, and his little cock twitched in response.

Trent’s eyes fell shut as he bottomed out. Kayden’s asshole gripped him like a vice and the heat was incredible. He felt so good, Trent had to pause for a moment, so he wouldn’t immediately squirt. After a long moment, he began to move his hips. He pulled out halfway, then pushed in again until Kayden’s balls brushed his groin. He did it again and again until he picked up a steady pace.

Kayden groaned and hitched his other leg up on Trent’s shoulder as he grew more comfortable with the penetration. He licked his lips and rolled his butt up for more.

Trent smirked down at the other boy. “You love my cock, don’t you?” he asked sweetly.

“Oh god…Trent…” Kayden whispered; his voice full of desire. “It feels so good…”

Trent agreed, but he knew he could make it even better for the other boy. He reached down and took Kayden’s cock in his lubricated hand. The baby oil was amazingly slick, and sweet-smelling, and he worked his fist along the shaft with ease.

Kayden gasped and squirmed as he was pleasured. His asshole squeezed down on Trent super tight, and his little cock leaked clear fluids against his big, powerful fist. He covered his mouth and moaned loudly into his hand as he spiraled closer and closer to orgasm.

Trent stroked and twisted Kayden’s ridged shaft with earnestness. He wanted him to come first, and he slowed down a bit and aimed for Kayden’s prostate as he entered him. He fucked him like that for several long moments, studying the beautiful boy below him in the moonlight. “I love you, Kayden,” he murmured softly, and Kayden groaned a wordless response, totally overwhelmed by the sensations.

When he got close to orgasm, Trent could read it all over his face. Kayden’s brows knitted together, and his mouth opened wide around his hand. He came with a muffled scream, his cock spurting pearly strings of white over his exposed belly. Trent milked him over and over until he was finished, and the spent penis slipped from his hand. He let Kayden recover for a moment in the aftermath, but he was still incredibly determined to come. He rocked his hips into Kayden with a gentle pressure as he waited, and finally, Kayden’s eyes fluttered open, and a groan escaped his sweet, pink lips. “Trent…ooooh…”

Trent leaned over Kayden’s weary body, bending him clean in half to catch his lips in another kiss. They both groaned as their tongues touched and moved against each other in a slippery dance. Kayden wrapped his arms around him and held on for all he was worth as his ass was thoroughly pounded. He looked so beautiful and was perfect in every way…Trent moaned into his mouth as his head swam with increasing pleasure. He was so, so close to the end, and he closed his eyes tight as he drove his hips into Kayden harder and harder until he burst, and his cock erupted in an explosive orgasm.

Trent buried his face in Kayden’s hair and kissed his neck. They lay there for some time, relaxing against each other. Kayden’s legs settled around Trent’s hips, and after some time, his fingers slid into Trent’s curls.

“I love you, too, Trent,” he murmured. “I’m glad you didn’t stay at that party.”

“Me too.”

“But you can’t fall asleep,” Kayden said softly. “My mom will find us in the morning.”

“Like I’d stay until morning,” Trent grumbled, but he kissed Kayden’s soft skin once more, then rolled over on his back. “We’re meeting at the school at five tomorrow. Right?”

“Right.”

“I hope you’re ready for this.” Trent smirked up at Kayden’s ceiling. “I’ve got a lot of fun stuff planned for us.”

“You do?”

“Yep. But I won’t spoil the fun,” Trent said. “It’ll be the last time we’re totally alone before my mom comes to stay. We should make the best of it.”

“But I thought you said she wouldn’t bother us,” Kayden whined. “You said she’s staying in the pool house.”

“She is,” Trent grumbled. “But she’s a busy-body. She’ll be in everybody’s business before long.”

Kayden sat up slowly and looked down at Trent. “What if she finds out about us?”

“That’s not going to happen,” Trent growled. “We’re going to be very discreet when we’re in the house.”

“But…why? What’s the big deal? My mom knows about us now.”

Trent sat up too and reached for his t-shirt. “Because I don’t want her to know what’s going on, that’s why. I don’t want her to know I’m failing school, I don’t want her to know you’re my tutor, and I definitely don’t want her to know we’re dating.”

Kayden nervously chewed his lip as Trent pulled his shirt over his head. “What would happen if she does? Is she going to be upset?”

Trent shrugged, then bounced off the bed to get his jeans and his shoes. “I really don’t know.”

“But then…what are you afraid of?”

“I’m not afraid of anything,” Trent snapped as he shoved his legs into his pant legs, then yanked them up. “She’ll make a big deal out of it, is all. She won’t rest until she knows every detail and I can’t stand that kind of scrutiny.”

Kayden watched him step into his shoes with wide eyes. “But she won’t be upset?”

“I don’t know, Kayden! I’ve never fucked a guy before. I’m sure she’ll be pretty shocked.”

Kayden licked his lips. “But…what if—"

“Why do you care?” Trent huffed as he finished dressing. “She’s my mother. Let me worry about it.”

“My mom hasn’t spoken to me since we left the McDonald’s,” Kayden whispered. “I think she’s upset.”

Trent sighed and sat on the edge of the bed. “I’m sure she’ll will get over it.”

“I just hope she doesn’t tell my dad,” Kayden said. “He’s the one I’m really worried about.”

Trent looped his arm around Kayden’s shoulders. “You’re eighteen. You’re allowed to have sexual preferences.”

Kayden gave him a pointed look. “So are you.”

“I don’t want to tell my mom, because its none of her business,” Trent growled, dropping his arm. “She’ll stay for a week or two, then leave. We can keep this on the down-low until she’s gone. It won’t be that hard.”

Kayden slowly shook his head. “I think it’s going to be harder than you think.”

“Not if you help me.” Trent bared his teeth at him. “And you’re going to help me. You’re not going to tell her.”

Kayden lowered his eyes. “I already promised I wouldn’t say anything…”

“Good.” Trent stood, and started for the window. “Then let’s just leave it at that.”

“No goodbye kiss?”

Trent came back with huff and kissed Kayden on the top of the head. “Night, Baby-Kay.”

“Goodnight.”

Trent climbed out the window and lowered himself down onto the chair. He paused and looked through the kitchen window as his feet hit the ground. Kayden’s dad was in the living room beyond the darkened countertops. His stern face was orientated at the TV, and Trent ducked out of the way before he was seen and returned the chair to the table by the pool.

Kayden watched him from the window, his expression somber. Trent held up a hand in farewell, then exited through the back gate.

***

Brrring! Brrring! Brrring!

Sun poured through the blinds. It was early Saturday morning and Trent cringed at the sound of his phone going off, but he sat up to answer it. The ringtone was irritating, but it was a Skype call, which meant it was his mother.

“Jesus, what time is it?” he grunted into the receiver.

“Eight am,” Diana said crisply. “I’ve been awake since six.”

“Good for you.” Trent rubbed a hand across his face. “What do you want? I told you I’d come pick you up tomorrow.”

“Chase is trying to get in to see me,” Diana said in a rush. “He called the hospital twice this morning, asking about visiting hours.”

Trent grit his teeth. “I thought you were under a private name.”

“I called him last night to see if he’d throw some of my things in a bag,” Diana said guiltily. “But that’s just because I know how impatient you are. I thought it’d go faster if I had a few outfits already packed.”

“Goddamnit, mom!”

“I’m afraid he’s going to show up and try to take me,” Diana whispered. “You have to come today.”

Trent sat up, shouting, “Did you do this on purpose?!”

“No. Trent. Please, I just want to get out of here.”

“I’m five hours away!”

“My doctor just stepped in the room,” Diana said sharply. “Keep your voice down.”

Trent ground his teeth together.

“Do you think you can show up by noon? I can probably hold him off until then.”

“I doubt it,” Trent huffed, but he was already rolling out of bed. “I guess I’d better get dressed.

“Hurry,” Diana hissed. “You know how your father is.”

Trent yanked the phone away from his face with a glower and ended the call. “He’s not my fucking father,” he grumbled to no-one.

Groggy, Trent pulled on his clothes from last night, grabbed his phone and his wallet, then headed downstairs for an energy drink.

In the kitchen, Vince was at the table eating a huge plate of waffles. He looked up when Trent swept into the room. “Hey. Good morning.”

“Morning,” Trent grumbled as he stopped in front of the fridge and pulled it open.

“So, what are your plans for the weekend?” Vince grunted. “We need to study for the Sports in History test next week.”

“I’m actually on my way to pick up my mother,” Trent said bitterly, grabbing a cold drink from the shelf and slamming the door shut. “She needs a safe place to stay for a while.”

“Oh.”

“I’m supposed to meet up with Kayden tonight, too, so I don’t know how that’s going to work out. I’m supposed to be in Beverly Hills by noon.”

“I guess studying’s off the table for today, huh?”

Trent cracked open his drink. “Definitely.”

“Well, I’ve got a lot going on tomorrow,” Vince said, avoiding Trent’s gaze. “I’m supposed to meet with Sarah about your progress in the morning, then I’m doing family stuff until late.”

“You’re meeting with that bitch again?” Trent grumbled.

“She’s not a bitch,” Vince said darkly, stuffing a large bite of waffle into his mouth. “She’s an incredibly intelligent young woman.”

Trent snorted. “Yeah okay.”

Vince swallowed audibly. “I guess we’ll play it by ear then. But we should try to get another session in before class on Tuesday.”

Trent guzzled his drink, then crushed the can and tossed it in the recycle bin. “Sounds like a plan.”

“If you’re worried about making it in time,” Vince said as Trent started for the hall. “Take the I-5, and you’ll make it by noon.”

“Like I’ve never been to Beverly Hills before.” Trent rolled his eyes. “I know where I’m going, fatass.”

“Whatever.” Vince snorted as he stuffed another bite of waffle into his gullet. “See you later, jerk.”

Trent left the kitchen and found his shoes by the door. He was in a grumpy mood. He hated getting up early, and even worse, he hated the drive to his mother’s place. It was long and boring, and he wished he didn’t have to do it on his own.

The thought of inviting Kayden came into his mind, but he forced it out of his head in an instant and started outside for his truck, because Kayden couldn’t leave his house. He couldn’t do anything without his parent’s permission…

He got in the Raptor and sent him a message instead. I might be late tonight, he typed. My mom has to be picked up today, so I’m driving to the hospital right now. He sent the message, then set his phone aside for later.

With a grimace, Trent started the engine.

This was going to be a long drive.

***

Trent got to the medical center at half past noon and checked his phone. The last message from Kayden had come over an hour ago.

Let me know when you get there…

There were several more above it. They’d been in contact since Trent had hit the highway hours back, but Kayden had been urging him to drive safely, so they hadn’t spoken much.

I just got to the hospital, Trent texted back. I’m going in.

Be careful, Kayden replied in an instant, and Trent rolled his eyes as he got out of the truck and started across the parking lot. Kayden must have said that five times already. He didn’t know what he was supposed to be careful about. This was nothing but an inconvenience.

The Cedars-Sinai Medical Center was in the heart of Beverly Hills. It was a large, glass building surrounded by palm trees and traffic. It was the place all the stars went for treatment, and Trent had been here many times before for his mother’s numerous “beauty procedures.”

He stepped into the building and went straight to the blond woman sitting behind reception. The inside was gleaming white and modernly styled. Sunlight poured through the huge windows along the front wall and when Trent stopped in front of her, the receptionist’s pretty blue eyes glinted up at him smartly. “Can I help you?” she asked.

“I’m here to pick up my mom. Diana Hudson,” Trent said coolly. “But I don’t know where her room is.”

The receptionist turned to her computer and typed something on the keyboard, but already, her face had become a blank wall. “We don’t have any patients under that name. Are you sure she’s at this hospital?”

Trent frowned. “I’m sure.”

The receptionist closed a screen on her computer. “I think you’re mistaken.”

“Oh for fucks sake.” Trent ripped his phone out of his back pocket and dialed his mother’s direct number. “I’m about to make you feel really stupid right now.”

The blonde brushed her hair behind her ear. “I really doubt that.”

Trent glared at the lady and drummed his fingers on the counter.

Diana answered on the third ring. “Hello?”

“Mom! I’m downstairs,” Trent growled. “What room are you in? The receptionist won’t let me up.”

“Trent?”

“Yes! It’s me! I’m here to pick you up! Just like you asked!”

“Chase is here,” Diana whispered, and Trent’s heart dropped into his stomach. “He wants to take me back to the house.”

“Oh fuck no!”

“I’m in room 432,” Diana whispered. “Under my mother’s maiden name.”

“Jesus Christ!” Trent muttered, then curtly ended the call. He turned back to the receptionist with a glower on his face. “Rosie Walker. She says she’s in room 432.”

The receptionist didn’t even bother to look at her computer. “You can see yourself up, can’t you?”

Trent sneered at the woman, then turned away for the elevators. Fucking Chase was here, and Trent muttered angrily under his breath as he reached them and repeatedly jabbed the button to go up. When it came, he had to wait for an older couple to get out, and he crossed his arms impatiently as they made themselves scarce, then ducked inside, and hit the button for the fourth floor.

Upstairs, Trent made a left and started down the long hallway. The tiled white floors were polished to the hilt and continued inside the patient rooms on either side. Trent peeked into each one as he passed. The rooms had large windows looking out at the city, and they were basked in sunlight. As he neared his mother’s door, he caught the sound of his stepdad’s voice.

“Put your shoes on and let’s go.”

“I’m not going anywhere with you. Trent will be here any minute.”

“That spoiled little brat?” Chase snapped. “And what’s he going to do?”

Trent stepped into room 432 and blocked the exit with his body. Diana lounged comfortably in her hospital bed with her casted left arm across her stomach. Chase stood over her at the foot of the bed, his eyes red and his shirt unbuttoned at the bottom. He was glaring at Diana but looked up abruptly when Trent cleared his throat.

Diana looked up, too, and smiled. “Baby boy. I knew you’d make it in time.”

Trent kept his eyes on Chase. “What are you doing here?”

“What do you mean, what am I doing here?” Chase threw up his arms. “I’m here to pick up my wife!”

“There’s no way that’s going to happen.” Trent narrowed his eyes. “You’re drunk, aren’t you?”

“No!” Chase spat, but it was obvious he was lying when Trent took a step closer, and caught the whiff of alcohol on his breath. “What is this anyway? An inquisition? I’m just here to get Diana.”

Trent frowned. “I don’t think so.”

“What the fuck?”

“You’re a mess,” Trent sneered, gesturing to Chase’s mussed appearance. “I’m taking her home with me.”

“You’re taking my wife back to the dorms?” Chase snorted.

“I don’t live in the dorms,” Trent said. “And you should know that.”

“Same difference.”

“What the fuck happened to my mom’s arm, Chase?” Trent drawled.

“We were in a car accident. Didn’t you hear?”

Trent slowly shook his head. “She tells me you guys have been fighting again.”

“Married couples fight.”

“About movie scripts and casting calls?” Trent growled. “You’re working again. And I know how you get when you’re working on one of your productions.”

Chase whirled on Diana. “How much have you been talking to him?”

“Enough for me to get the picture,” Trent sneered, taking another step closer. He didn’t like how Chase was towering over his mother’s tiny figure. “You need to back up.”

“I’m not listening to this fucking brat!” Chase grabbed the end of the bed and shook it. “Get out of the bed, Diana.”

Trent closed the distance between them and shoved Chase in the chest. “I told you to back off!”

“Don’t touch me!” Chase roared.

“Back away from my mother,” Trent said heatedly. “Before I break your goddamn arm.”

Chase lashed out, but Trent grabbed his fist and twisted it sharply.

“Trent!” Diana screamed.

“Ow! Fuck!” Chase yelped, turning his whole body to keep his arm from snapping under Trent’s power. “Get off me!”

“What the fuck happened to mom?” Trent barked, and Chase wailed.

“It was an accident!”

“One of your accidents?” Trent forced his arm back further. “I should snap you in half for ever touching my mother.”

“Argh!” Chase yanked against him frantically. “Let me go!”

“Trent!” Diana yelled. “Stop it!”

Suddenly, a squadron of guards trooped into the room and broke Trent and Chase apart.

“Let go of me!” Chase roared, but his arms were promptly restrained, and he was escorted out.

“Mom!” Trent called after Diana, but he too, was wrenched out of the room and marched down the hall.

“You’re disrupting the patients,” said the big black guy holding Trent’s arms behind his back. “You’ve got to go.”

“But that’s my mom!” Trent cried. “I’m trying to pick her up!”

“Maybe you should have thought about that before you started a fight.”

“That wasn’t a fight,” Trent chuckled. “Fucking shit.”

“Mmhmm.”

A pair of young nurses dashed out of the way as the men moved down the hall. They made eyes at Trent, and the anger drained out of his body as he was led past. He knew better than to fight with his arms behind his back and he tried his best to be calm as he and Chase were loaded into the elevator.

Chase was taking another approach entirely. As he was dragged into the metal box, he struggled against the two men holding his arms, foaming at the mouth with anger.

“I didn’t do anything,” he growled, yanking against the guards’ death grips. “This is fucked up!”

“You’re disrupting the peace,” said the fat guy on the right, struggling to hold onto just one of Chase’s muscular arms. “You can’t do that. You have to leave.”

“I’m not disrupting anybody’s peace! I’m trying to make things right!” Chase fought with all his might, but it did no good. The guy on the left was young and spry and had a good hold on him. “Goddamn police!”

“We’ll be calling the police soon if you don’t go quietly,” said the fat guy. “Just calm down.”

When they got to the first floor, the guards hustled both men to the doors. The blonde receptionist stood as they passed and watched with a hand over her mouth. She was giggling, the spiteful bitch.

The guards took them outside and released them in the parking lot.

“Told you to let me go five minutes ago,” Chase scoffed, smoothing his wrinkled shirt with a glower. “Fucking barbarians.”

“You’ve been warned,” the young guy said, giving Chase a firm look. “Don’t come back in the building or we’ll be forced to call the authorities.”

“Fucking authorities…” Chase sneered. “You try to do the right thing and they say they’re calling the cops.”

The young guy raised an eyebrow.

“Have a nice day, gentlemen.” The black guy laughed, then took his buddy’s shoulder and pulled him away. The fat guy paused to throw a glare at Chase, then he scurried after the other two.

Trent and Chase were left to bake on the scorching pavement.

“Well, I hope you’re happy.” Chase drew a pair of sunglasses out of his back pocket and slid them onto his face. “I’m freezing your damn bank card when I get home.”

“What for? Because my mom doesn’t want to be with you?!”

Chase stiffened. “We’ll see how long it takes before Diana’s back at the house.”

“You’re a bastard!”

“You can’t afford her, Trent.” Chase smirked. “I’m the one who takes care of her.”

“You…abusive shit!” Trent started, but trailed off as a dark car rolled up behind Chase.

“Oh, darn. My rides here,” Chase said sarcastically. “Sorry to cut you off, kid. But I’ve got a lot of work to do this afternoon. There’s a casting call at three.”

“On Saturday?”

“It’s an exclusive set with a VIP,” Chase simpered. “I’m not supposed to say who, but I’ll tell you since your family and all.”

“I could care less,” Trent sneered.

“Demi Lovato,” Chase said excitedly. “She’s going to be in my next movie. If we can get her under contract, that is.”

“Good for you,” Trent said sourly.

Chase got into the back seat with a laugh and slammed the door. The car glided away, and Trent balled his hands into fists as he watched him drive off. The sound of Chase’s laughter rang in his ears long after he was gone.

Trent went to his truck and got out his phone. There were three missed calls from Diana, and a text from Kayden. He quickly checked the text first.

Is everything alright?

Not really, Trent typed. Chase was in my mom’s room. He was trying to take her home.

What happened?

We had an argument, and the guards escorted us out of the room. I’m just sitting in my car, trying to figure out what to do next.

Oh, Trent. I told you to be careful.

Trent growled and exited out of the messenger app. He’d deal with that later. With a sigh of resignation, he returned his mother’s phone call. “Mom?”

“That’s exactly what I was trying to avoid,” Diana said. “I knew if you two ran into each other there’d be a fight.”

“That wasn’t a fight!” Trent cried. “That was a heated disagreement.”

“Whatever,” Diana snapped. “Right now, I’m in the middle of arguing with the doctors to release me to my hot-headed son, and they aren’t thrilled about the idea.”

Trent leaned back in his seat with a huff. “What the fuck did I drive all this way for then?”

“Just give me a couple minutes and I’ll be downstairs,” Diana said. “I’m not even dressed yet.”

“Alright,” Trent said. “But we’re going to have a problem. Chase said he was going to freeze my credit card.”

“Is he still down there?”

“No. He left.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Diana said easily. “I have my own private account he can’t touch. We’ll be fine.”

Trent nodded.

“See you in a minute. Bye love.”

“Yeah, see you soon,” Trent grumbled, then hung up. Somehow he’d accomplished everything he’d set out to do. Chase was gone and his mother would be down in just a few minutes. He put his window down and baked in the sunlight filtering through the windshield.

When his phone buzzed with another message, he checked it at once. It was Kayden again.

Are you still there?

Yea. My mom’s coming down, Trent texted. Hopefully, we’ll be leaving soon.

That’s a relief.

I don’t know if I’ll be back by five or not. Trent checked the time. It’s almost one now.

Don’t worry about it. I’ll be waiting for you. No matter what time you get back, Kayden said. I love you, Trent. Drive safely.

I will.

Trent leaned back and closed his eyes as an old Eminem song came on the radio. The sun was warm and relaxing, and he felt like he was getting a tan…

***

Tap, Tap, Tap

Trent lurched upright and blinked in confusion. He sat in the front seat of his truck, baking under the sun.

Tap, Tap

Trent looked through the passenger window and met Diana’s gaze. The memories from earlier flooded back and he sat up straight with a groan.

“Open the door,” Diana mouthed, and Trent hit the unlock button. “Whew! It must be 120 degrees out here,” she said as she climbed into the seat. She wore a shirtdress, leggings, and flip-flops and her left arm was in a splint, but she had nothing else. Still, she struggled for a moment, before finally settling into her seat.

“It’s unusually warm for November,” Trent said in agreement. “Didn’t you have anything with you? A bag? Clothes?”

“Nope.” Diana held up her cell. “They wheeled me into the ER with this clutched in my hand. I was wearing this outfit, and the orderlies were nice enough to get it dry cleaned.”

“That was nice of them.”

“I gave them a handsome tip,” Diana said, lifting her chin. “So, Chase said he’s freezing your account?”

“Yeah,” Trent scowled. “Good thing I got you that new mattress last night. I got you the best of the line, too.”

Diana made a face. “You mean my room isn’t set up yet?”

“Not yet,” Trent said as he started the truck, and turned on the air. “I wasn’t expecting you until tomorrow.”

“Well, where am I supposed to sleep?”

“On the couch?” Trent shrugged. “I don’t know. It’s just for one night.”

Diana shook her head. “That’s terrible, Trent.”

“What?!”

“You’d let your mother sleep on the couch?” Diana frowned. “Let me have your room if it’s only for one night.”

“Fuck!” Trent aggressively revved the engine. “Alright!”

Diana smiled hugely. “That was easy enough.”

Trent ground his teeth as he pulled out of his parking space and drove for the exit. Diana had just put an end to his and Kayden’s fun before it’d even began, but he wasn’t about to argue. He had no good excuses. The upstairs bedroom would give her the appropriate amount of privacy that she would need living with four college-aged boys.

“I left my purse in Chase’s car,” Diana said as they pulled out onto Beverly Blvd. “I’m going to have to get a new card rushed to me if this is going to work. I’ve only got one outfit. I have to go shopping, like tomorrow.”

“I’m sure I can at least find you some sweats that will fit you,” Trent grunted, but Diana wrinkled her nose.

“No thanks. I’ll wait for the card.”

Diana got on the phone with her bank while Trent got on the I-5 and headed back to Stanford. It was half past one, and he made a rough estimate that they’d be back in town by 5:30. He got out his phone and sent Kayden a quick update on his progress.

“Trent! Don’t text and drive,” Diana dropped her phone and swatted him with her good arm. “That is so dangerous.”

Trent finished up and sent the message. He didn’t care what his mother thought. “Relax. We’re fine.”

“I’m on hold,” Diana glared at him as she retrieved her phone. “They need to validate my identity.”

Trent grunted in agreement.

“Who are you texting?”

Trent stiffened. “I’m just letting the guys know I’m on my way back.”

Diana frowned. “They can wait. We’ll be back soon enough.”

“Four and a half hours is soon?” Trent scowled. “Fuck. Good thing I got a nap.”

Diana laughed, then, “Sorry. I was talking to my son. I wasn’t laughing at you,” she said into the phone. “You asked for my social? Are you ready?”

Trent tuned out his mother as he sped around a white sedan in the right lane. Maybe, if he pushed it a bit he’d make it back a little sooner.

“Slow down, Trent,” Diana chastised. “There’s no rush.”

Trent stepped on the gas and got into the far-left lane, so he could speed. “Screw off, mom,” he muttered under his breath, and Diana turned away as she resumed her phone conversation with the bank. He didn’t care what Diana said. They were getting back before 5:30.

***

Trent and Diana got back to town at a quarter after. Trent couldn’t help himself. He checked his phone as soon as he got off the highway. There was a new message from Kayden, sent ten minutes ago, and he pulled it up to read.

Me and my brother are waiting at the school. Tell me when you get close.

Trent let out a sigh of relief. He hadn’t kept Kayden waiting very long. I just got off the freeway, he texted back one-handed. I’ve got my mom with me, so I don’t know if I should drop her off first or get you.

“You’re texting again,” Diana said in a sing-songy voice.

“Fuck off!” Trent yelled. “I had plans tonight and you’re ruining them right now!”

“You don’t have to cancel your plans for little old me.” Diana flipped her blonde hair over her shoulder. “What did you have planned?”

“I’ve got three tests coming up,” Trent hissed. “I’m supposed to study with a friend from class tonight.”

“On a Saturday?” Diana laughed.

“Yes, on a Saturday,” Trent grumbled. “My grades have been shit lately, so I’m trying to get them back up before finals.”

Diana smiled. “Well, we can still pick him up. Who’s the friend?”

“Kayden,” Trent said under his breath.

“I know who that is.” Diana laughed.

“Just…be quiet.” Trent blushed as they turned onto Campus Drive and started toward the library. “He’s waiting on campus. I’ll swing by and pick him up first.”

“I can’t wait to meet him,” Diana chuckled. “He sounds like he’s a doll.”

Trent clenched his hands on the wheel. He’d wanted to keep Kayden as far away from his mother as possible, but there was no way he’d be able to keep them separate on the ride home. He started to regret his decision as they got closer to the school. He hoped to god Kayden wouldn’t say anything to give them away… Frowning, he took out his phone and sent Kayden another text.

I’m coming with my mom. Don’t embarrass me, Kayden. I’ll be there in a couple minutes.

Okay. 😊 Kayden replied, and Trent put his phone away with a sigh.

***

They pulled into the parking lot below the library three minutes later. Ian’s white BMW was idling at the front of the empty lot, and Trent pulled up beside it and waited for Kayden to get out.

The little Asian slid out of the back seat and approached with his head down, and his legs together. Trent knew he was holding onto his precious butt plug, and he thought he looked extra cute today.

“Aww, he’s a little rag-a-muffin,” Diana cooed, referring to Kayden’s oversized sweatshirt and his baggy jeans. “You didn’t tell me he was poor.”

“He’s not,” Trent grumbled.

Kayden hopped in the backseat. “H-hi.”

“Hello.” Diana turned in her seat and took a good look at the tiny boy, her lips slowly curving upward. “Trent says you’re going to study tonight.”

“Y-yes. That’s right,” Kayden stuttered, nervously meeting Trent’s gaze, and Trent slowly shook his head.

“Where are your school things?” Diana asked sweetly. “Or do you always come unprepared?”

“Umm…”

“Leave him alone, mom,” Trent scowled, then stepped on the gas and drove around the BMW. “Can’t you tell he’s nervous?”

“Nervous about what?” Diana laughed. “I’m just chatting.”

Trent grit his teeth but kept quiet as Kayden spoke up.

“We-we usually use Trent’s books, so I don’t have to bring mine.”

“That’s smart,” Diana said, then turned back to Trent as they bumped out onto the street. “That wasn’t so difficult was it? I was just asking a question.”

“That’s enough questions,” Trent said firmly.

“So, what’s your major?” Diana asked, ignoring Trent completely. “I’m sure you know Trent’s in Sports Management.”

“I-I’m premed for now, but I want to change to education,” Kayden said softly. “It suits my personality.”

“We’ll that’s as good a reason as any,” Diana said brightly. “Are your parents the one’s pushing you into the medical field?”

“Yes.”

Diana nodded. “You live with your parents, right? I remember you saying that now.”

“Yes. Five minutes away in Palo Alto.”

“When the hell were you guys talking?” Trent grumbled, but he was roundly ignored.

“That’s a nice short commute,” Diana continued. “We had to get room and board for Trent because he’s over four hours from home.” She looked fondly in his direction. “That was quite the drive he made today.”

“I know,” Kayden whispered. “He texted me.”

“Oh, so you were the one he was texting,” Diana said cheerfully, and Trent growled under his breath.

“Mom. Shut up!”

Diana held up her hands as Trent made the turn onto Dish Trail and sped through the Stanford hills. They were just minutes away from the house and he was desperate to get there. “I guess I’m not allowed to speak to you, Kayden,” Diana said sarcastically. “I apologize.”

“No, I’m sorry about your arm,” Kayden said in reply. “Is it bad?”

“It’s just a fracture.” Diana shrugged. “I’ve certainly had worse.”

“Y-you have?”

“Oh yes, when I was with Trent’s real dad—”

“Mom!”

Diana zipped her lips as Trent grumbled under his breath. He knew this had been a bad idea. Anxious he’d be found out, he glanced at the scar over his brow in the rearview mirror and accidently met Kayden’s wide-eyed gaze. He looked away with a scowl.

When they got to the house, Trent mashed the button for the gate and coasted into the drive. Mitch’s Hummer was missing, but it looked like everybody else was home. Trent made a face as he parked beside Vince’s Range Rover. There was no way he’d get a second alone with Kayden. This was so goddamn unfair.

The three of them got out of the truck and headed inside. “Shoes off,” Trent muttered out of habit as he stopped by the door and kicked off his tennis shoes. Kayden paused to do the same, but Diana wrinkled her nose in disapproval.

“I’m not taking my shoes off. You know how I hate being barefoot, Trent.”

“Whatever mom.” Trent rolled his eyes. “You’re the guest. Make yourself at home.”

Diana beamed like the sun as Lucas and Vince stepped out of the living room.

“Hello,” Lucas said kindly. “How was the trip?”

“Long,” Diana groaned.

“Yeah, Mitch and I don’t make the trip back home much anymore. We don’t see the family until the holidays.”

Diana perked up. “That reminds me, how was your summer? Did you get into that internship you were hoping for?”

“They weren’t hiring freshmen. I got way ahead of myself,” Lucas laughed. “But I can probably get in next semester.”

Diana nodded, then turned her attention to the larger boy at his side. “Vince. How was your summer break?”

“Good.”

“How’s the family?”

“My dad and my sister are coming to pick me up for lunch tomorrow,” Vince murmured. “We do it every week.”

“It’s nice you and your family keep in such close contact, especially after what happened to your mother…”

Vince’s face became pinched at the reminder, and Diana quickly changed the subject.

“Well, boys, I’d love to catch up, but I’m feeling awfully fuzzy after that stay in the hospital,” she said. “Where am I staying tonight, Trent? I’d love to get a shower.”

“Upstairs, mom.” Grudgingly, Trent led his mother to the staircase. “My room’s the only one up there. The bathroom’s on the left, and my closet’s beside it. You can go through my clothes if you want.”

“I’ll figure it out.” Diana started upstairs. “Later, boys.”

Trent watched her go with a sense of relief. Sure, she was taking his room, but her absence meant he’d gained a bit of his privacy back. He turned back to his friends as Diana disappeared down the hall. Kayden watched him intently, his gaze wary, but he smiled faintly when their eyes met. Slowly, Trent smiled back at him.

“So. Does your mom know you guys are sleeping together?” Vince gestured to the tiny Korean.

“No!” Trent shouted. “And I’d like to keep it that way, too!”

“Oh. Okay.”

“Fuck! Do we have any beer?” Trent started for the kitchen, sure he’d seen some in the fridge earlier that morning. “It’s been a long day. I need a drink.”

“There’s a few cans in the door,” Lucas called after him, and Trent opened the fridge and spotted them immediately. All three cans.

Trent gathered them in his arms and stepped through to the living room. “This is definitely not enough. Someone needs to go on a beer run.”

“I’ll do it,” Vince said, and Trent caught sight of him waddling to the door through the living room archway. “I’ve got to park my car for the night, anyway.”

Trent set his beers down and got comfortable on the couch as Vince ducked out of the house. “Kayden!”

Kayden appeared in the doorway, followed closely by Lucas.

“Come sit with me,” Trent grunted, cracking open the first beer and taking a long drink. “I’m stuck on the couch tonight. This is as good as it gets.”

Kayden shuffled into the room and took the seat beside Trent. “What’s on TV?” he asked, looking up at the screen. “Sports?”

“No. It’s the movie channel,” Lucas said from the doorway. “We were watching Creed.”

“I hate this movie?” Trent grumbled, but he didn’t bother to take up the remote. “It’s too…romantic.”

Lucas chuckled. “It’s an amazing film. Michael B. Jordan is great in this.”

Trent rolled his eyes. “He’s alright.”

“He’s like a darker version of you,” Lucas chuckled. “But maybe a little sexier because he’s actually famous.”

Trent mutinously sipped his beer.

“It’s almost over.” Lucas leaned against the doorjamb and folded his arms. “You might like the movie that’s on next, Trent. It’s a slasher.”

“A slasher?” Kayden worried his lip.

“Kayden have a beer,” Trent said, then handed the boy a cold one. “Don’t worry about the TV. Just focus on getting drunk, so I can take advantage of you.”

Kayden warily took the beer and struggled to pop the tab. Trent watched him struggle for a moment, then opened it himself.

“You’re such a pussy,” he smiled meanly. “But you’re adorable to watch.”

Lucas snorted from the doorway.

“Just get in here already and help us finish this beer,” Trent growled, gesturing for Lucas to sit on his other side. “You’re giving me the creeps hanging in the doorway like that.”

“I could go if you two would rather be alone,” Lucas suggested.

“Naw. My mom’s right upstairs. I’m not doing anything until there’s a locked door between us.”

Lucas laughed as he came around the couch and sat next to Trent. “Like that’s ever stopped you before.”

“It’s going to this time,” Trent said darkly.

The three of them finished their beers while the movie ended and another one began. The Strangers.

Trent elbowed Kayden in the ribs. “This one will give you nightmares for sure.”

“I don’t want to watch it then,” Kayden groaned. “I don’t want to be scared like that.”

Trent threw his arm around him and pulled him close. “I’ll protect you, babe. You don’t have to be scared.”

“Does it have a happy ending at least?” Kayden asked.

“Nope. Everybody dies.”

“Oh nooo.” Kayden cuddled into Trent’s side and hid his face in his shirt. “I hate movies like that.”

“It’s just a movie.” Trent kissed the top of his head. “You’ll be fine.”

Kayden moaned pitifully and curled into Trent’s side.

Lucas smiled at the pair. “You guys are cute together.”

“Fuck you.” Trent gave him the finger. “I’m not cute. I’m sexy.”

Lucas laughed softly and turned back to the TV. “Right.”

Moments later, the front door burst open, and Vince hurried through with a box of beer. He charged into the living room, then leaned over the couch and sat the box on the pillows. “Plans have changed. Sarah just got stood up for a date, so she wants me to come meet her at this fancy restaurant.”

“What?” Lucas wrinkled his brow. “I thought you were meeting her in the morning.”

“Nope, she wants me to come now,” Vince said with a huge grin. “I have to get changed.”

Trent scowled after the other boy as he rushed out of the room. “Why does he need to meet her at a restaurant? Why does he need to meet her at all, actually?”

“He’s got a crush on your advisor. Let him be,” Lucas chided.

Trent rolled his eyes, then reached over Kayden for the beer.

“And your advisor seems to be hell bent on getting your grades up,” Lucas continued. “You should be grateful.”

“I am grateful,” Trent grumbled. “I just wish she would stay out of my business.”

“Aya!” Kayden jumped as one of the strangers popped up on the screen and charged the main character. “This is freaking me out. Can we watch something else?”

“Only if you drink another beer,” Trent said solemnly, handing him a second can. “That’s your punishment.”

“Ooooh,” Kayden whined, then finished his first can with an audible swallow. Nervous, he took the second and cradled it to his chest.

Trent grabbed the remote and flipped through the movie channels. “There’s got to be something not gay on.”

“Go back,” Lucas said. “Beyond the Lights is a good movie. Kayden will like that one.”

Trent rolled his eyes. “I hate romance,” but he went back to the movie, then tossed the remote on the coffee table. He got himself and Lucas another beer, then stretched his arm around Kayden’s shoulder again and pulled him close.

Vince hurried out of the house a few moments later, and the three of them were left on their own. An hour passed and they made good work on the beer.

“She’s such a good singer,” Kayden cooed at the female lead. “Ohhh! This is so romantic!”

“See, I knew he’d like it,” Lucas snickered.

“I’m picking the next movie,” Trent growled. “This is total bullshit.” He hated sappy romances. It reminded him of his mother and her favorite soap operas…

“I thought you guys were studying.”

Trent jumped about a foot in the air and turned for the door. Diana stood with her hands on her hips in a pair of Trent’s basketball shorts and a loose tee. She raised an eyebrow and Trent immediately took his arm from around Kayden’s shoulder.

“I’m not in the mood to study, mom,” he grumbled. “Leave me alone.”

“I’m starving,” Diana said. “What’s there to eat?”

“Fuck. I don’t know…Luke, order us a pizza. None of us have any money.”

Lucas gave Trent a questioning look but took out his phone regardless. “Everybody okay with pepperoni?”

Diana wrinkled her nose. “How about something fresh. Like peppers and mushrooms?”

“Nobody wants peppers, mom!”

“That sounds good for a change. How about we compromise with a supreme.”

“Grrrr!” Trent hated supreme.

“I’m fine with that,” Kayden piped up, then elbowed Trent. “Stop. You’re mom’s the guest.”

“I know she’s the guest,” Trent snapped. “Like I could fucking forget!”

Lucas called their regular pizza joint and ordered a large pie for delivery. “It’ll be here in forty-five minutes.”

“Excellent,” Diana said, then breezed into the room to steal a beer. “Call me down when it shows up!”

Trent glared after his mother as she disappeared back upstairs. “She’s so goddamn annoying. How the fuck did I forget?”

“You’re the only one of us who has a mom,” Lucas reminded him. “You should try to appreciate her.”

“We were going to have all this crazy sex tonight,” Trent grumbled. “This isn’t fucking fair.”

Lucas perked up. “Oh? What did you have planned?”

Trent smiled. “Well, for one, I bought a home piercing kit.”

“What?” Lucas’s face screwed up. “What are you piercing?!”

“Both his nipples,” Trent said casually. “Want to help me?”

Lucas’s face turned red. “I—I don’t know.”

“Trent?”

Trent turned to Kayden and smiled. “Yes?”

“If you pierce my nipples, I’ll be yours forever. Won’t I?”

Trent brushed Kayden’s hair back and cupped his cheek. “That’s right, baby.”

“Oh god,” Lucas murmured under his breath, but Kayden ignored him.

“Let’s do it then.”

Trent smiled. “Let’s.”

“A-are you guys absolutely sure?” Lucas stuttered. “Trent could really hurt you, Kayden. I mean…we’re all drunk right now!”

“I trust him,” Kayden said sweetly. “And I trust you too, Lucas. You’ll help him, won’t you?”

“I-I guess.”

“After this stupid pizza comes,” Trent said. “We’ll lure my mom downstairs to eat, then I’ll run up for the kit.”

Lucas rubbed his face. “Let’s at least do it in my room, so we have some privacy,”

Trent nodded. “Sounds good.”

The movie ended while the three of them waited for the pizza boy to show up. Lucas and Kayden chatted amicably over the credits about the film, but Trent couldn’t care less about it. Now that the idea was in his head, Trent couldn’t let it go. He imagined Kayden, naked, spread out on the bed with his hard little nipples peaked with pleasure. In Trent’s imaginings, Kayden was begging him to pierce him, to make him his property, and Trent’s cock firmed up in his jeans as the fantasy ran through his mind.

Suddenly, the doorbell rang.

“That’s the pizza,” Lucas said, then got up to answer the door.

Trent got up too and started for the stairs. “Mom!” he yelled. “The food’s here!” He waited impatiently, tapping his foot as he listened to Lucas talk to the delivery man. The piercing kit was upstairs in his dresser. He needed to get his hands on it.

“That was forty minutes?” Diana asked as she appeared at the top of the stairs. “Felt much longer than that.”

“You didn’t have to lift a finger. What are you complaining for?” Trent scowled at her.

“I said I was hungry.” Diana took the banister and glided down the stairs. “My stomach’s grumbling.”

“Well, it’s hot and ready,” Lucas said, turning from the door with the pizza. “Let’s eat in the kitchen.”

Diana followed Lucas into the other room, and Trent took the opportunity to slip upstairs. Already, Diana was making herself at home. The bed was unmade and her clothes from earlier were draped across the desk chair. When he got to the dresser, he saw his brush had a few strands of blonde in the bristles and he growled under his breath in irritation.

He opened the drawer and grabbed the piercing kit he’d bought off Amazon. It was in a plastic Ziplock and the contents were visible from the outside. There was a pack of 20-gauge needles, a set of clamps, gloves, alcohol wipes, and two titanium bars he was going to put through Kayden’s nipples when he was done.

Trent started to leave the room, then paused to grab the lube out of his bedside drawer, just in case.

Downstairs, he heard the others laughing in the kitchen. He didn’t bother going in, he was too anxious to get set-up, and he went straight down the hall and to Lucas’s room.

Lucas had the smallest room out of the four of them, and he had to share a bathroom with Vince of all people. It was at the back corner of the house with glancing views of the pool. Trent stepped into the room and hit the lights. Lucas had a queen-sized bed in the corner, a desk scattered with books across from it, and a chest of drawers by the door. There were assignments and class schedules tacked to a cork board over the desk, and a large red poster from the campus store over the bed. It was boring and studious.

Trent went to the bed and tossed the kit on the duvet. They needed towels, and he left to grab some from the tiny bathroom across the hall. He was annoyed when he came back, and the others still hadn’t joined him. He sat on the bed with a sigh and fiddled with the piercing kit. He couldn’t believe he was about to do this, and his heart pumped loudly in his ears with excitement.

“Told you he’d be waiting,” Lucas murmured as he and Kayden appeared in the doorway and Trent looked up in surprise.

“You don’t really think he’ll mess it up, do you?” Kayden fell against the doorjamb with a pout.

“No. He probably watched a YouTube video or something,” Lucas chuckled, then took Kayden’s arm and gently helped him through. “I’m sure you’ll be fine.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence.” Trent glared at the pair.

“I’m nervous.” Kayden licked his lips. “Maybe I should have another beer first.”

“You’re already stumbling enough as it is,” Lucas said as he led him to the bed. “Have a seat, Kayden. Before you fall.”

Kayden sat heavily on the bed beside Trent and smiled up at him trustingly. “Hi.”

“Hello.” Trent bared his teeth in a facsimile of a smile. “And I did watch a YouTube video. I know exactly what I’m doing.”

“I’d let you do it even if you didn’t.” Kayden slid his arms around Trent’s middle and gave him a huge hug. “I love you, Trent.”

“Love you, too.” Trent hugged him back, kissing him firmly on the top of his head. “You’re such a good little slut.”

Lucas watched them embrace with a faint smile on his face. “I told your mom we were going to try to study for a bit, and not to bother us.”

“You’d better lock the door either way. She doesn’t give a shit. She’s already going through my stuff, wearing my clothes, and using my brush,” Trent grumbled into Kayden’s hair. “I can’t believe I thought this was a good idea.”

Lucas snorted as he went back to the door and locked it behind them. “I couldn’t even imagine having my dad come to stay.”

“Your dad’s about as bad as mine,” Trent said darkly. “I ran in to the fucker at the hospital. Chase. He wasn’t happy I was taking mom to the dorms.”

“He’s the reason she’s here,” Lucas said as he came back to the bed and stood over the other two. “I know she’s annoying but try to keep that in mind.”

Trent grunted in agreement and hugged Kayden closer. “I know.”

“Just try to relax. Nobody’s going to bother us now.”

“I don’t know about relaxing…” Trent said in a deep voice. “I was hoping for something else, actually.”

Lucas raised an eyebrow.

Trent shook Kayden off and opened the piercing kit. “You’d better get down to your undies.”

Kayden blinked rapidly a few times, then slowly pulled his sweater over his head. He laid back, then started on his fly, and Trent’s cock perked up with interest as he watched.

Lucas cleared his throat. “I guess I’m just here for moral support?”

“Yep,” Trent said, then bounced off the mattress to make more room for the other two. “Both of you better get on the bed.”

Lucas, his cheeks pinkening, took Trent spot on the bed as Kayden kicked his jeans off and sat up in his little boxer briefs. Both boys looked questioningly at Trent, and Trent’s cock grew another inch in his arousal.

“You’d better take your shirt off, too,” he said to Lucas. “In case there’s blood.”

Lucas peeled his shirt off at once. He was slender and hairless, a lot like Kayden was, but his arms and his stomach were corded with muscle.

“Lucas, sit back against the pillows,” Trent said as he took out the surgical glove and snapped it on his right hand. “Now get in his lap, Kayden…yeah, that’s nice.”

Kayden settled back against Lucas’s firm chest and melted into the embrace at once, but Lucas was turning beet red. He banded his arms around Kayden’s waist and held onto him tightly.

Trent smirked as he knelt on the bed and moved closer. He liked the debauched image the two boys presented, and his cock grew fully erect in his jeans. “This is really gonna hurt, Baby-Kay. Hold Lucas’s hand.”

Kayden reached down for Lucas’s hand and nervously laced their fingers. Lucas gripped his hand with all his might.

“You’ll be fine sweetheart. I’ve got you.”

“Ohhh…” Kayden groaned. “I’m so scared right now!”

“You should be.” Trent took out the alcohol wipes and straddled Kayden’s thigh. “Which one first?”

Kayden gazed down at his naked chest. “I-I don’t know.”

Trent grabbed his right titty and twisted it sharply. “This one first then.”

Kayden hissed as his nipple was pulled and tugged. He dropped his head back on Lucas’s shoulder and moaned wantonly. Trent could see his erection plain as day in his undies. Reluctantly, he released Kayden’s abused nipple and cleaned him with the tiny square of alcohol. He tossed it aside, then took out the forceps and clamped Kayden’s teat.

“Owwww,” Kayden groaned, clutching Lucas’s hand in a death grip. “That hurtssss.”

“I’m just getting started,” Trent chuckled, then pulled out the pack of needles and tore one out with his teeth.

“Jesus, this is insane,” Lucas murmured, his cheeks pink, and his breath uneven. He looked like he might be aroused too, but it was hard to tell with Kayden sitting between his legs.

“Jealous it isn’t you?” Trent asked as he casually lined up the needle. With one firm push, Kayden would be pierced, but he paused to watch Lucas’s reaction. “I’ve always suspected you were gay for me, Luke. It’s okay if you are. I won’t be mad.”

Lucas glared at him. “I’m not gay, Trent.”

“Being gay is accepted all over the world,” Trent laughed as he poked Kayden’s sensitive flesh. “It’s something to be proud of, Luke.”

“Funny.” Lucas shook his head, then pointedly looked away. “But I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Kayden,” Trent snapped. “Take a deep breath.” Kayden gasped, surprised, and drew in a huge lungful of air, and Trent pushed the needle through his nipple.

“Oww!” Kayden yelped, tears forming at the corners of his beautiful eyes. “Ow, ow, ow!”

“Hold still,” Trent growled, then selected one of the metal bars with his free hand. There was a bit of blood, but nothing gory or extreme. Trent shoved the bar through the end of the needle and slid everything through until the end rested against Kayden’s swelling nipple. He dropped the needle and screwed the ball closure onto the end of the piercing, and, “Viola. It’s done.”

Kayden looked down, tears in his eyes, and marveled at his new nipple ring. “I-I-I can’t believe I let you do that.”

“Ready to do the other one?”

“No!” Kayden cried, covering his left nipple in fear. “No. Please. Let’s wait until we know this one is okay.”

Trent snorted, but backed off. He couldn’t believe Kayden had let him do that either. One was good enough.

“Let me see,” Lucas said, pulling Kayden around. “Wow. That actually doesn’t look half bad. Nice job, Trent.”

Trent smiled. He thought it looked pretty good, too.

Kayden wiped his eyes. “It still hurts.”

“Poor baby.” Trent leaned down and kissed him softly on the lips. He lingered for a moment, enjoying the warm push of Kayden’s tongue against his, but then he pulled back as another idea came to mind. “Come on, Lucas. Help me out. He needs some comfort.”

Lucas rolled his eyes but reached up to pat Kayden on the head. “There, there.”

“That’s bullshit,” Trent snorted. “Give him a kiss. A real one.”

Lucas and Kayden looked at each other in surprise.

“T-Trent?” Kayden whispered.

“Kiss each other,” Trent said heatedly. “I want to see you together.”

Lucas flushed again, and started to sit up, but Kayden leaned in before he could escape and kissed him firmly on the lips. Lucas gasped into his mouth but did nothing to push him away. His fingers slid into Kayden’s hair and slowly, his lips started to move against Kayden’s.

“Jesus that’s hot,” Trent murmured, reaching down to adjust his erection. The sound of Kayden’s and Lucas’s lips smacking together made his loins ache for attention, and the image of both boys worshiping his cock came to mind. He rubbed himself through his jeans as their kiss became more frenzied.

Tap, tap, tap

“Can someone run to the store before it gets too late?”

Kayden and Lucas broke apart as Diana’s voice came through the door.

“I need some mineral water for the morning…Hello?”

“Fuck off, mom!” Trent roared, but it was too late, Lucas squirmed off the bed and grabbed his top.

“Yeah! I-I’ll run to the store,” he cried, then yanked his shirt over his head and quickly fixed his hair. He glanced at Trent, and their eyes met for the briefest of moments, then he hurried to the door. When he opened it, Diana peeked over his shoulder and curiously met Trent’s gaze. Then he slipped out of the room and pulled it shut behind him.

“They’re right in the middle of algebra,” Lucas said firmly. “Come on. We’d better leave them to it.”

“Really now?” Diana chuckled, but her voice floated away down the hall.

“W-why did you have me kiss Lucas?” Kayden asked once they were alone. “D-do you want me to sleep with him?”

“Maybe,” Trent said casually. “If I’m watching.”

Kayden’s eyebrows climbed into his hairline.

“Well, don’t worry about it now,” Trent grumbled, stretching out on the bed beside Kayden. “He’s long gone.”

“I-I-I don’t understand. Do you want to share me?”

“I never want to share you,” Trent growled, then flicked Kayden’s new piercing. “But if you have my permission that’s different. You’re my property now. I get to decide what happens to your body.”

Kayden gazed up at him in amazement. “T-Trent?”

“Don’t worry, baby. You’re in good hands,” Trent said, rolling closer so he could take Kayden in his arms. “I take good care of my things. I’m going to take excellent care of you, too.”

Kayden smiled faintly. “I love you.”

“I love you, too. Now, let’s fuck.”

Kayden, his eyes shimmering, nodded in approval. He leaned in for another kiss, and their mouths met in a passionate meld. Trent lost track of time as he fell into Kayden’s warmth and thoroughly enjoyed the moment.

***

Long after Kayden was gone and the house got dark for the night, Trent lounged on the couch, mindlessly watching sports highlights.

He hadn’t run into anybody since he’d taken Kayden back to campus. Diana was upstairs, Lucas’s car was in the garage, and Vince was still out for the night, doing whatever he was doing. Mitch had been absent most of the weekend already, but Trent wasn’t worried about him. He was probably out sowing his wild oats, and that was fine by him.

“Trent?”

Trent jolted upright. “Wha?”

It was Lucas. He stood in the doorway in a pair of boxers and an undershirt. He was barefoot, and in the dark, he kinda reminded Trent of Kayden.

“What’s going on?” Trent sat up the rest of the way and turned to the other boy. “You scared the shit out of me.”

“I’m sorry.” Lucas rubbed his neck. “I just…I couldn’t sleep.”

“I can’t sleep either,” Trent said. “This sleeping on the couch is bullshit.”

Lucas smiled and came around the couch. Trent tossed his blankets aside to make more room and Lucas sat beside him. The blond paused, then looked up shyly. “What happened earlier was…upsetting for me.”

“Upsetting?” Trent snorted. “What do you mean? The kissing?”

“Well, yeah. I mean…I didn’t want to kiss Kayden.”

Trent smirked. “You wanted to kiss me, didn’t you?”

Lucas hesitated. “You’re right. I’ve liked you for a really really long time, Trent.”

Trent leaned back and studied the other boy with half-lidded eyes. “I fucking knew it. Seth said something to me the other day and it just sorta clicked. You’re in love with me, aren’t you?”

Lucas squirmed in his seat. He didn’t answer the question.

“I’d kiss you now, but that’d technically be cheating,” Trent drawled. “And you wouldn’t want to do that to Kayden, would you?”

“Of course not,” Lucas frowned. “But…”

“I’m not allowed to kiss anybody else,” Trent said lightly. “Sorry.”

“I didn’t come in here to beg for a kiss,” Lucas grumbled.

“You didn’t?”

“No.” Lucas took a deep breath. “I wanted to ask you not to put me in that position again, actually. It wasn’t fair to me.”

Trent laughed. “Oh you poor thing. Do you feel like you’re being teased?”

“Yes,” Lucas said. “What happened in my bedroom earlier…was private and I’d appreciate it if you didn’t mention it to any of the others. Nobody knows I’m gay. And nobody knows how ungodly obsessed with you I am.”

“I was rearing up to tell your brother the minute he came through the door,” Trent snorted. “Relax. I won’t tell anyone your queer. Your secret’s safe with me.”

“Good.” Lucas nodded firmly. He started to get up, then paused. “And I emailed you Jacob’s schedule just now. Guess who I got it from?”

Trent shrugged.

“Vince was nice enough to ask your advisor, and she was more than happy to look it up,” Lucas said smartly. “It took less than a day.”

Trent watched the other boy as he stood up. He was intrigued by Lucas in a way he’d never been before, and he couldn’t help himself. He grabbed Lucas’s wrist before he could step away. “Come here, idiot.”

Lucas gasped as he was pulled back down on the couch. “What are you…mmph!”

Trent forced his mouth down on Lucas’s as excitement grew in his loins. He’d fucked Kayden quite thoroughly before sending him home, but he was always ready for more. He swiped his tongue along Lucas’s bottom lip, seeking entrance to the warmth within.

Lucas groaned reluctantly as he gave into the kiss and opened his mouth. His body shuddered against Trent’s, and slowly, he reached up a trembling hand and touched his stubbled jaw.

The kiss went on and on and Trent’s cock grew to its full length in his boxers. He didn’t know what he was about to do, but he was eager to explore this new possibility.

Then Lucas pulled away. “Stop. Trent.”

Trent blinked in surprise. “What?”

“I said I didn’t want to be put in this position again.” Lucas wiped his mouth. “You’re not being fair to me, Trent.”

“Whatever.” Trent frowned. “You’re being ridiculous. We could have fun together, if you’d stop being so stuck up.”

“I’m not being stuck up, I just want to be more than somebody’s fling and I think that’s what I’ll be to you. Just another lay.”

Trent grunted in agreement. “Probably.”

Lucas’s eyes glimmered with tears in the moonlight. “That’s what I thought.”

“Lucas…”

“I have to go now,” Lucas whispered, then backed up. “Goodnight, Trent.”

Trent watched him go, confused more than anything. He adjusted his erection, then settled back on the couch to catch up on the news. He didn’t want to touch himself. It felt wrong.