My Brother’s Keeper - 39

Tad opened the bathroom door to be met by a thick cloud of steam and quickly shut it again to keep the heat in. As he undressed and dropped his clothes on top of Roy’s he watched the younger man’s silhouetted body through the glass shower door. Praying that Roy wouldn’t ask him to get out, he stepped into the shower.

“What are you doing here?” Roy asked. He tensed but didn’t turn around.

“Taking a shower? Saving water?”

Roy snorted. “Some excuse. Like you have to worry about that.”

Tad hesitated then said softly, “I’m sorry.”

“For what?” Roy turned slowly to look at him.

“For being insensitive in what I said to you earlier. I was just trying to get you to see that things were working out for you finally.”

“And you. Now you get your apartment back all to yourself.”

“What if I don’t want it all to myself?”

“Then call up your girlfriend. I’m sure she’d be glad to keep you company.”

“Believe me that is the last thing I want.”

Roy hid a small smile. He was beginning to enjoy this game although he’d never admit it to Tad. “Then I guess you’re shit out of luck, aren’t you.” He reached for the shampoo, squeezing a dollop into his hand.

“Guess I am.” With a sigh Tad opened the shower door enough to step out.

“You give up too easily,” Roy replied quietly as he began to wash his hair.

Tad hesitated, one foot in the shower, the other on the floor outside.

“And you’re making more than a mess out there,” Roy added. “Hope the bathmat can soak it all up.”

“I hope.” Tad finished getting out, closing the door behind him.

“Tad, get back in here. I need…umm…my back washed?”

“Thought you were doing your hair,” Tad muttered but he rejoined Roy.

“I think that’s a hopeless cause. How long ‘til the dye washes out anyway?”

“Hell if I know. Days, weeks, and you won’t want to leave until it does you know.”

“Oh? Is that the reason I’m staying around?” Roy cocked an eyebrow, smirking.

“Maybe, or maybe because you want to, and I want you too.”

“Possibly.” Roy smiled, tracing the line of Tad’s jaw with one finger. “Probably.” He put his hands on Tad’s hips to pull him closer. “Or just perhaps…definitely.”

“My favorite word.” Tad cupped Roy’s face in his hands, studying it.

“Do I pass inspection?” Roy asked. When he got a nod in return he said, “Then prove it. Kiss me.”