Don't Touch Me! - 52

 

"You are," Brent said when he could speak again, "an absolutely amazing man."

"No." Cody shook his head. "Not at all amazing. I'm just a guy in love with the one person who cared enough to find the man behind the barriers I'd erected."

"A very wonderful—" Brent didn't get to finish his statement. Not that he cared since he was being heartily kissed by then. Naturally it led to a second round of love making, during which the words 'I love you' were spoken whenever either of them wasn't otherwise involved in proving it in a much more physical way.

"We need to get some sleep," Brent said much later.

"Meaning you're going home."

"Now why would you think that?"

"Because? Unless…"

Brent grinned. "Unless I want to wake up with you beside me? I do. I'd love to find you in my arms every day of the week."

Cody leaned on one elbow, looking down at Brent. "Then move in with me."

"Whoa." Brent knew his shock showed on his face from the look of hurt in Cody's expression as the younger man moved away, staring up at the ceiling. "Hey," Brent said softly, "I wasn't rejecting the idea. I was surprised is all." When Cody looked hopefully at him, Brent smiled. "I can't until next weekend, if you don't mind waiting that long."

"Mind? Hell no, I don't mind. God, I love you so much now."

"Remember that in six weeks when we're fighting for who gets the shower first."

"That's easily solved. We'll share." Cody yawned. "Everything."

"Works for me, sleepyhead." Brent planted a swift kiss on Cody's lips. "Now, as I said a while ago, let's actually get some sleep. I don't know about you, but I have to work tomorrow, being as how it's only Tuesday."

"We both do, so yeah…" Cody curled up in Brent's arms. "Love you."

"Love you back," Brent replied, closing his eyes. His last coherent thought? Who knew, when you walked into my office, our lives would come to this. Not me, but I'm not complaining. Not. In. The. Least.

The End

Don't Touch Me! - 51

"Of course I did. If it wasn't for you…" He took the page, reading aloud. "Dedication… To the man who saved me. The man I love, heart and soul. My one and only Brent." He looked at Brent. "It's not too gushy is it?"

"No, my dear man, it's perfect." Brent wrapped him it tight embrace. "I love you so much—heart and soul." He grinned. "And body of course. That does play into it."

"Now who's being silly?" Cody said, his face alight with happiness.

"Me? Never." Brent kissed Cody deeply. "Thank you."

"Thank you! Without you—"

"If I have my way, you'll never be without me. Now"—Brent glanced at the oven—"what about we eat then celebrate in the best way I know how…in bed."

"I think that's a perfect idea."

When they'd finished dinner and had cleaned up, Brent suggested they take their coffee into the living room so he could start reading Cody's manuscript. Cody nodded, although he didn't look all that happy about the idea.

Brent grinned. "You had something else in mind?"

"You know I did," Cody retorted.

"Like..." Laughing, Brent picked Cody up, tossing him over his shoulder, and headed upstairs.

"Damn," Cody muttered when Brent deposited him on the bed. "Is this going to be our foreplay every time we make love? Not, you understand, that I'm complaining. It does add a certain extra to the proceedings."

Rather than replying, Brent grabbed the hem of Cody's T-shirt, pulling it up and off the younger man with a flourish. Then he stripped off his own shirt, tossing both of them on the chair by the dresser.

Cody laughed, commenting, "You aren't in a hurry, are you?"

"Let's just say, if we're not both completely naked, in ten seconds or less…"

It took a bit longer, since they had shoes, socks and jeans to deal with, but soon enough they were. Brent looked at Cody, who was now sprawled wantonly in the center of the bed. He wanted nothing more than to pounce but first…

Sitting next to Cody, Brent idly traced a finger along the fine line of Cody's jaw. "I need to ask you something, and I want an honest answer, not what you think I want to hear."

Cody seemed surprised, saying quietly, "All right. Ask away."

"I'd like to… Okay, not the best way to preface this. Would you be willing for us to do more than just give each other…? Damn, this isn't easy."

Cody broke into laughter. "Do I want us to go all the way? Hell, yes."

He tapped Brent's nose, grinning when Brent muttered, "That's my thing."

"I case you haven't noticed, I won't break. Not anymore. Yeah, I'm not stupid, or a total innocent, as you should know by now. I know what's involved," Cody said assuredly.

"But it's been a long time."

"So we take it slow. I have a feeling you're good at it, as patient as you've been with me about everything else." Wrapping his arms around Brent's neck, Cody concluded by saying, "Does that answer your question?"

"Yes," Brent replied softly. Then they kissed and everything progressed from there as they knew it would, until they reached shattering climaxes that left them limp, breathless and totally sated.

 

Don't Touch Me! - 50

 

Brent called Walt Monday morning, asking him to have talk with Mr. Garey about the two men who were with him the afternoon they beat-up Cody. Walt said he would, promising to call if he got any information. He did, later the same day.

"Garey finally let loose with names for his two buddies. Cody's father picked some real winners to do his dirty work. The good news is, neither of them is here in the city now. One is downstate, serving time for armed robbery."

"Serves him right," Brent muttered.

"Yeah. He won't be out for a long time. According to Garey, John Temple, the second man, is back east somewhere. He thinks either Philly or Baltimore but that was a couple of years ago. I ran a check on the guy and he's no winner either, with a rap sheet as long as your arm—mainly for petty crimes."

"You're certain he's not back here again?"

"Garey says he isn't. He and Temple grew up together, so whenever Temple comes to town, he gets in touch with Garey. I think you can tell Cody he's got nothing to worry about on that front." Walt chuckled. "Now hooking up with you is another story."

"Hey! Besides which, what makes you think we're more than just friends?"

"Because he's the first man I've ever seen you take a really personal interest in. Sure, maybe in the beginning he was just a client. But if that was the case, you'd have been out of his life the second I told you he was no longer a suspect in his mother's murder. No, Brent, my best guess is you and he are well on your way to being a couple."

"Okay, I'll admit we're definitely working on it."

"Good. It's about time you settled down and had a life outside of work. And it's time I got back to work."

As soon as he hung up, after thanking Walt for all his help, Brent called Cody to relay the information. Cody was obviously relieved, but from the tone of his voice, there was something else going on with him. When Brent asked, all Cody would say was he'd tell him after dinner.

"I'm coming for dinner?" Brent asked with amusement.

"Yes. Well… Please?"

"I can't think of a better way to end the day," Brent replied. "Around six?"

"Perfect. I'll see you then. Love you."

"Love you too."

Almost the second Brent stepped onto the porch at Cody's house two hours later, the door opened.

Brent grinned. "Don't tell me you were watching for me."

"I won't, but I was," Cody replied, grabbing Brent's hand to tug him inside. He immediately kissed him, getting one in return, of course. "Dinner's ready."

Sniffing, Brent said, "Italian?"

"Nope, I'm English on Mother's side and…"

Brent put a finger to Cody's lips. "You're also being silly. What's going on?"

"I finished it!"

"Hot damn!" Brent hugged him hard, knowing he meant the book. "When do I get to read it?"

"Technically, not until it's published. But since it's you…" Cody grinned, taking Brent's hand again to lead him into the kitchen. On the table by Brent's place was a thick pile of papers. "There will be changes of course, between this and when it comes out, but you get first look."

Brent looked at the top page. "You didn't."

Don't Touch Me! - 49

 

Cody writhed, riding the waves of pleasure, wanting to give as well as receive. He turned his head, his lips meeting Brent's, and kissed him. As he did, he ran his fingers slowly across Brent's back then down the length of his spine. Feeling mischievous, he tickled Brent.

"Brat," Brent muttered, returning the favor. Cody broke into gales of laughter as he tried to wriggle away. "Oh no you don't," Brent said, grabbing Cody's wrists.

Cody froze, his heartbeat accelerating, his breath coming out in short, sharp pants.

Instantly, Brent released him, his expression filled with remorse. "I'm sorry. I didn't think."

Cody gripped Brent's arms to keep him from moving away. "I'm…okay," he replied, and, he realized that he was. Now his heart was pounding for a different reason, as he looked up at Brent. "Let me show you." He made a circling motion with one finger—a message Brent obviously got since he rolled over onto his back. Cody straddled him, one hand on Brent's rampant cock. He leaned down, about to take it into his mouth, and remembered. "I hope…"

Brent pointed. Cody opened the nightstand drawer. A moment later Brent was sheathed, then Cody set to work, reveling in the pleasure he was giving his lover. When Brent came, he grasped Cody's shoulders so hard Cody bit his lip to keep from crying out—but he didn't panic the way he had when Brent had held his wrists just minutes ago. All Cody felt was elation. I've made him happy and conquered my fear. Because of him, with his help, I can live again. 

"I hurt you," Brent said contritely when he realized what had happened.

"Yes," Cody admitted reluctantly. "But it's all right. It was momentary, and knowing I could give you so much pleasure"—he cupped Brent's face to be certain he was listening—"made it worth it."

"You certainly did that," Brent replied. "Now, it's my turn." He put his arms around Cody, rolling them over. "Seems to me this was where we were before you started your tickling game." Without giving Cody a chance to reply, Brent kissed him deeply. "Now, my man," he said when they broke the kiss, "let me get down to business—pun, intended."

Brent did, sheathing Cody's cock before driving him past pleasure into ecstasy with his very skillful mouth. When Cody came, he felt rapture he would have thought impossible until that moment. What will it be like when we go all the way? I might die from it, but what a way to go.

"If your smile was any wider, I could nickname you The Joker," Brent said, nuzzling Cody's neck.

"That bad, huh?"

"No. That good. How many times have I told you that I love seeing you smile."

"I blame it on you. You've given me more than enough reasons to."

"I intend to keep on doing it, whenever possible. Now, however, we'd better get moving. I did promise you dinner and I don't believe in breaking promises."

"You never have, with me at least," Cody told him as he sat up, trying to remember where he'd left his bag.

"It's still in the living room."

"Mind reading?" Cody asked.

"Nope, expression reading. You looked puzzled. We need to get dressed. I put two and two together…"

"Which is what makes you a great detective," Cody said with a grin as he stood. Before he could walk away, Brent was there, wrapping him in a tender embrace. When Cody looked up at him, Brent said softly, "I love you."

"I know," Cody replied. "I love you too. More now than yesterday, and less than tomorrow."

Brent chuckled, kissing him quickly. "The writer speaks."

"Too…clichéd?" Cody asked, arching an eyebrow.

"Yeah, maybe, but perfect nonetheless." He released his hold on Cody, patting his ass. "Go get your bag and get dressed, because I'm starving."

"You're not the only one," Cody replied, going to do as Brent requested.

 

Don't Touch Me! - 48

"Nice…sink."

"Yep."

"Nice…shower."

"It is," Brent agreed. "You'll get a better view from inside it."

"I'm…" Cody looked at the shower, then at Brent. "Scared," he admitted.

"Cody, we're only taking a shower. Nothing more. Okay, maybe a bit more because I'll try to work the kinks out of your shoulder. But if it's all you can handle, that'll be it." He caressed Cody's cheek. "I promise."

"I feel like…this isn't fair to you," he said, looking down at Brent's half-erect cock.

"I'm fine. Yeah, if you want the truth, I definitely have designs on your virtue," Brent replied with a wicked grin, "but not until we're both absolutely certain you're ready. So get your fine ass in there because I am, with or without you."

Brent stepped into the shower stall, turning on the water and adjusting the temperature. After a long moment of wondering if he really could do it, Cody joined him.

Brent moved aside so Cody could get under the water. The heat felt wonderful and Cody began to relax—until he turned and saw Brent watching him. Cody's body responded in ways which would make it extremely clear to Brent he wasn't immune to very physical attributes of the man who was now smiling at him. Suddenly, he was in Brent's arms, being kissed with a hunger that matched his own.

Then, very unexpectedly, Brent released him, moving an arm's length away. "I didn't plan on doing that," he said, looking conscience-stricken. "But…"

Well aware Brent wasn't going to push him into something he wasn't certain Cody could handle, Cody almost allowed his apology to stand…but didn't. Instead, he wrapped his arms around Brent, asking quietly, "Do you hear me complaining? I got in here, knowing what might happen. In case you didn't notice, I'm not unaffected by you standing here in all your naked glory." He took Brent's hand, pressing it to his own hard cock.

"Naked glory?" Brent chuckled.

"So I'm a writer. I get clichéd at times—at least according to my editor. Can we go back to the subject at hand? Or in hand?" Cody moaned when Brent stroked his cock.

"I'm all for that, but not in here. Making love in a shower sounds sexy but it can be damned uncomfortable. So wash up and let's take this into the bedroom, if you haven't changed your mind by then."

"That is not going to happen," Cody said emphatically. Then he realized his reply could be taken two ways. "I mean, my changing my mind."

They washed quickly, rinsed off, and once they were out of the shower, dried off. Then, grinning, Brent picked Cody up, tossed him over his shoulder and carried him into the bedroom, depositing him on the bed before Cody could protest—which he wouldn't have.

"What do you like?" Brent asked, kneeling over Cody.

"To…to be touched by someone I love," Cody murmured.

"Like this?" Brent brushed his fingertips lightly over Cody's nipples.

"Oh, yes," Cody managed to reply as a spasm of need went straight to his groin. "Just like that."

"Or this?" Brent bent, gently nipping Cody's earlobe. He smiled when Cody hissed in a breath, moving to the other ear to nibble. All the while, his fingers danced across Cody's chest, working their way lower and lower, following the fine line of hair leading down to what Cody prayed was Brent's ultimate destination.

Don't Touch Me! - 47

Since they were in the workout room at his apartment complex, upstairs meant Brent's place on the fifth floor. Cody picked up the bag holding a change of clothes, following Brent to the elevator. A few moments later they walked into a spacious living room with large windows along one wall looking out over the park across the street.

"Nice," Cody commented, setting the bag by the sofa.

"Thanks. I like it. Do you want something to drink?"

"Water, and lots of it?"

"I think I can handle that." Brent went into the open kitchen on the left side of the living room, coming back with two tall glasses of ice water, handing one to Cody.

"Slow down," Brent cautioned when Cody gulped half of it.

"I need to replace all the liquid I sweated out," Cody countered, wiping his hand over his forehead.

Brent grinned as he stripped off his tank top, using it to dry his face. Cody eyed him with a sudden hit of lust. Not that he didn't know Brent was well built, but with his chest bare now, his muscular form was definitely visible.

"Careful, my man. I might think you have immoral intentions, from the look on your face."

"Very immoral, but I don't think I've got the energy to carry them out." Cody rubbed his shoulder again. "Or the ability right now."

"Come with me." Brent led the way to his bedroom. "Lie down and I'll see what I can do to ease your aches and pains. Or better yet, let's get you into the shower. Hot water will do wonders for you."

Cody's eyes widened. "Are you serious?"

"Always works for me."

"I mean…"

Brent smiled. "I don't have to join you, if you don't want me to. And if I do, we don't have to do more than just wash up."

Impulsively, Cody replied, "Let's do it. I mean shower. Together."

"You're on." Brent quickly stripped off the rest of what he was wearing. "It's easier to shower if you're naked," he pointed out when Cody stood there eyeing him.

"What? Oh…yeah." For a moment Cody felt shy. After all, compared to Brent, he was far from muscular. Still… He pulled of his clothes quickly before he changed his mind.

"Nice." Brent's tone was full of approval. "Very nice."

Cody tried not to blush. "Not like you."

"Nope. You're smaller. More compact. But still damned close to perfect."

"Brent," Cody hissed. "Quit."

Brent laughed. "You know you turn red from head to toe when you're embarrassed?" Putting his hand at the small of Cody's back, he steered him into the bathroom.

 

Don't Touch Me! - 46

"You need to put your whole body weight into it," Brent told Cody the Saturday following their run-in with Garey. "Try again."

Cody stepped in fast, thrusting his shoulder against Brent's chest hard enough to cause Brent to take two steps backward.

"Now, while I'm momentarily off guard, bring your arm up crossways and hit my throat."

"No way," Cody protested. "I could really hurt you."

Brent nodded. "If you followed through, you would. I'm trusting you to pull your move at the last second. So, chest, then throat."

After taking a deep breath, Cody did what Brent told him to, stopping a bare inch from the contact point on Brent's Adam's apple.

"Perfect. Again."

They practiced the move several times before going on to the next lesson. By the time the hour was over—because an hour was all Brent had allotted so Cody wouldn't become overwhelmed—Cody began to feel at least a small amount of confidence. He thought he might—just might—be able to at least stop an attacker long enough to get away. He said as much, adding, "If I can make myself hit him in the first place."

"Cody," Brent replied sharply, "you have to remember one thing. He has violent intentions toward you. If you don't counter with violence, if you let the ingrained thought get in your way that good people shouldn't counter violence with violence—instantly and as much as you're capable of—you will go down."

Cody nodded. "I understand that up here,"—he tapped his temple—"I just have to, like you said, get past the idea there has to be some other means to protect myself without using aggression."

"When a man intends to harm you, there isn't."

"Like the guy in the alley."

"Exactly. He could have wanted a lot more than just to give you what he considered a warning. He had you cornered, from what you said. Taking wild swings at him would only have egged him on. Use what you're learning now and you'll be able to get away from someone like him, hopefully leaving your attacker on the ground wondering what the hell just happened."

"Makes sense," Cody said, rubbing his shoulder, which ached now that the adrenaline from his lessons was wearing off. Suddenly it occurred to him, never once, throughout the whole exercise, had Brent hit him. He'd feinted as if he was going to, but that had been it. On the other hand, Cody had gotten in more than a few blows to Brent's body while practicing his moves.

"A few aches and pains?" Brent asked, chuckling.

"Yeah, but probably not nearly as many as you have," Cody told him. He paused, then added, "I know why you didn't hit me. You were afraid it might bring back memories and set off my paranoia again. But—" he looked squarely at Brent, "—next time, don't baby me. Okay? I don't think I'll break down, but isn't it better I find out now, with you than later if some SOB tries something?"

Brent nodded. "You're right. I'm not sure I was consciously avoiding hitting you. But yeah, I didn't. Next time though…" He grinned, tapping Cody's nose. "Next time watch out because we'll really go at it tooth and nail. And you won't fall apart."

"I hope."

"I know." Brent put his arm around Cody's shoulders. "Despite what you're thinking, what we did today was still, to all intents and purposes, an attack situation, and you made it through just fine. And worked up a sweat in the process, so grab your stuff and we'll go upstairs and cool down."

 

Don't Touch Me! - 45

 

"I guess I should be glad none of them came looking for me."

"Why would they? They were doing a favor for your father, from what Garey said. Besides, it happened what? Seven years ago, right? They got their jollies whaling on you and probably forgot about it the next day."

"Like me," Cody said dryly. "Although not for the same reason."

Brent smiled. "Calming down a bit, I see."

"Trying to. I'm even beginning to get hungry." As if his words called him, the waiter appeared to hand them menus. Cody opened his, asking, "What's good?"

"This," the waiter replied, leaning in to tap one of the items. As he did, his arm brushed Cody's.

For an instant, Cody panicked, his breath coming out in fast bursts. Then he took hold of his emotions. It's not an attack. He's not going to hurt me. He looked up at the man, with a crooked smile. "If you recommend it, I'll have some."

"Some what?" Brent asked, his gaze locked on Cody.

"Umm…" Cody had to check. "Meatloaf and mashed potatoes."

"Make it two," Brent told the waiter. When the man left, Brent took Cody's hand. "You did it!"

Cody grinned. "I did. I came close to losing it, but I fought the feeling and damn it, I won." He sobered. "At least this time."

"Each time it'll get easier." Brent squeezed Cody's hand. "I'll be honest with you. I wasn't certain, after everything with Garey, you'd be able to hold it together. But you succeeded." He smiled, murmuring, "Lean closer." When Cody did, Brent kissed him.

Cody returned it, saying a moment later, "Is that my reward for not losing it?"

"Nope. It's because I like kissing you and will use any reason to do so."

"You are so good for my morale."

"Anything to keep that smile on your face."

"You make it easy."

Brent leaned back, eyeing him. "This might not be the time, since this isn't a romantic setting with music and candlelight, but just so you know, I'm beyond just caring about you. I love you."

Cody's pulse raced, but he didn't want to go all gushy—which was the way he felt—so he replied as calmly as possible, "Good, because I love you too."

"Nice to know." Brent winked. "So show me." When Cody gulped, Brent shook his head. "Not that way. Damn. First off, we're in public. Secondly, there's a big difference between kissing and cuddling, and taking things to the next step. We won't do that until I'm very sure you can handle it." He grinned suddenly. "I just left myself open to some very ribald replies."

Cody laughed. "You did, but I get what you meant." He might have said more if the waiter hadn't arrived with their meals. When he left, Cody beckoned Brent to come closer so they could kiss. "I do love you," he whispered. "And in time I really will be able to show you just how much."

"I know," Brent replied softly. "There's no hurry. I just wanted you to know how I feel and that it's reciprocated."

"It is." Cody smiled happily. "More than you can ever imagine."

Brent tapped Cody's nose. "Wonderful. Now, let's eat before it gets cold."

Don't Touch Me! - 44

 

The first thing Brent did when he got to the station was call Walt to tell him what had gone down. Then he handed his phone to the officer. Cody wasn't really too surprised when, moments later, the officer handed the phone back, saying, "I'll need statements from both of you, but given the circumstances, I'm not going to arrest you, Mr. Harding. Unfortunately, I have no reason to arrest Mr. Garey, the man you hit, despite what Mr. Paige told us about him."

"Figures," Brent muttered.

They were escorted into an interrogation room where they gave their statements to the officer. As they left, half an hour later, they saw Garey in handcuffs.

"I thought…" Cody said to the officer.

"It seems Mr. Garey had a couple of warrants out on him for assault and battery."

Cody sighed with relief. "At least he'll be punished for something, if not what he did to me."

"One can hope," Brent said. "Okay, let's call a cab and get you home."

"But what about lunch?"

Brent just stared at him for a moment, then laughed. "You're serious, aren't you?"

"I'm hungry." He really wasn't, but he didn't want to admit he was still too shaken by what had happened to go home, where all he'd do was think about it. It would be easier to regain his composure if he was somewhere neutral, where he had to act…normal.

"Okay, my man, let's get you fed." Brent slung his arm over Cody's shoulders as they walked out of the police station. When they were on the sidewalk, he said, "You may have fooled the officer, but not me. You're shaking like a leaf."

"From hunger," Cody replied defiantly.

"Bull. Shit." Brent glanced around and pointed. "They have decent food and cheap beer. Let's go."

Cody let himself be let to the tiny restaurant, muttering "Don't baby me."

"When have I ever?" Brent retorted.

The place wasn't crowded, much to Cody's relief. They found a vacant table in the back and soon had beer. Cody took a hefty swallow, willing himself to relax. Finally, he was able to say candidly, "I wish I'd had the guts to do what you did, but…"

"You would have. I just beat you to it."

Cody snorted. "I've never hit anyone in my life. I don't know how to. If I tried, I probably wouldn't do any damage."

"Then I'll teach you," Brent told him in no uncertain terms. He took a drink before saying acidly, "I hope they throw the book at the bastard."

"You and me both," Cody replied, scrubbing his hand through his hair. "I wonder if the other men are wandering around somewhere too."

"There's one way to find out if they're still in the city, but not until tomorrow. I don't think Walt would appreciate me asking him to have a serious talk with Garey until then."

"Will he be willing to do that?"

"Probably. I gave him a quick rundown about why I coldcocked Garey, so he knows what's what."

Don't Touch Me! - 43

 

"You have two choices," Brent said harshly to the man. "Apologize to Cody and mean it, or don't, in which case I'll call a cop friend of mine to deal with you."

"Apologize to this fag?" the man snarled. "He got what he deserved. Ask his father."

"We can't. He's been dead for the last three years."

"The hell, you say."

"Guess the two of you weren't such good friends after all." Brent looked hard at the man. "Or were you friends at all?"

"I met him in a bar. He was going on and on about his fag kid and how he needed to be taught a lesson."

Cody gasped. "You mean he…he hired you?"

"Naw. We did it for free."

Brent scowled. "Well, bud, this is for free, from me." Pulling back his fist, he swung, landing a hard blow to the man's jaw. The man collapsed on the pavement without a sound.

"You didn't," Cody said, both amazed and horrified.

"Yeah, I did. The bastard deserved it."

Several people were moving closer at that point, some shocked, others just interested in what had happened. Brent looked at them, saying, "Nothing to see here, folks. Just a bit of well-deserved payback."

"For?" one of the men asked belligerently.

"That is none of your business."

"It is mine," a police officer said, coming up beside Brent.

Brent sighed, glancing at Cody. "Your choice."

Cody took a deep breath as he walked over to take Brent's hand, looking down at his bruised knuckles. Then he pointed to the man on the ground. "When I was younger, this man and some of his friends beat me up and left me for dead." Not quite true, but close enough, as far he was concerned.

"Can you prove it?" the officer asked.

"I can tell you what hospital I ended up at, if that helps."

The officer looked at the man, who was just starting to come to, then at Brent and Cody. "Let's take this down to the station to straighten it out."

"Fine with me," Brent replied.

"Me too," Cody agreed. He had no desire to have everyone watching hear his story.

The officer's partner came over to haul the man to his feet and escort him to the patrol car. Meanwhile, the first officer took Brent and Cody's particulars before telling them he expected them to follow him to the station.

"We didn't come by car," Brent told him.

"Then the two of you get to share ours with your…friend."

Cody wasn't happy about that but with no choice, he and Brent got in.

 

Don't Touch Me! - 42

 

For the next two weeks, Cody and Brent saw each other as much as possible, considering Brent's work schedule. They traded stories about their childhoods, talked about books they liked—and didn't like. And watched more television than any man should, according to Cody, who wasn't a big fan of the medium. "Probably because my mother was glued to it every second she was awake," was his explanation when Brent asked.

There was one advantage to being occasional couch potatoes. They cuddled, exchanging kisses during commercials. They did nothing more, however. Cody had the strong feeling Brent wasn't willing to push, afraid Cody might have an adverse reaction to more intimate exploration. Since Cody wasn't all that certain himself if it might happen, he was willing to leave things the way they were—for the time being.

Two Sunday's after their aborted foray to the restaurant for lunch, Cody suggested they try again, although maybe at a less popular place. "I'm getting more and more…relaxed, I suppose, around other people." He grinned. "I even went grocery shopping last night. Real shopping, not online. Okay, it was late, when I knew the store wouldn't be packed with people, but I did it and survived."

"And without me for backup. I'm not certain if I should be proud of you or hurt that you didn't need me," Brent replied with a wink. "I think pride wins though, hands down. So where do you want to go eat?"

"You know Nova's?"

"Yep. A bit far to walk to, however."

"Wuss. It's only three miles. We'll work up an appetite."

"The things I do for you," Brent grumbled. He was still muttering, although only in a teasing way, when they saw the restaurant two blocks ahead of them.

Cody had just told him, for the tenth time, to grow a pair, when he caught sight of a man turning the corner ahead of them. He sucked in a breath, turning swiftly to start back the way they'd come.

"What?" Brent asked, grabbing Cody's hand to stop him.

Cody was shaking so hard he could barely get out, "The man in the blue shirt…"

"I see him," Brent said, looking back momentarily.

"He was… He's one of the men…"

Brent tightened his grip, pulling Cody close. "Who beat you up?"

Cody could only nod as the terror he'd felt when it happened returned.

"Stay here," Brent ordered, leading Cody to the doorway of a closed repair shop. "I'm going to have a few words with him."

"You can't."

Apparently Brent disagreed. He strode determinedly forward, catching the man just as he was about to enter a bar across the street from the restaurant. Cody couldn't hear what was being said, but from the look on the man's face when Brent grabbed his shoulder and pointed to Cody was enough. The man scowled, shaking his head. Brent said something that the man obviously protested, then, without releasing his hold on the man, Brent walked him back to where Cody was standing.

 

Don't Touch Me! - 41

Apparently, Brent did, because there was nothing tentative about his response. The kiss was warm with the promise there would be more of them in their future. He pulled away, grinning. "As you were saying, you never expected…"

"You, me, us…" Cody entwined his fingers with Brent's, holding up their hands. "Like this."

"We haven't gotten quite that far," Brent replied, laughing.

Cody felt the heat rising on his face and knew he was probably bright red. Brent hugged him—now chuckling with amusement. "I didn't mean to embarrass you."

"You didn't. Well, not really. I was just…" He looked away.

"It will happen. Not today, not tomorrow, but eventually, when we're both certain it's what we want." Brent stood, pulling Cody to his feet. "I don't think we're ready yet, in spite of how we seem to feel about each other."

"I know. I'm not into moving fast and regretting it later." Cody looked up at Brent. "I want us to agree this is the real thing, with all it entails."

"Exactly."

With their arms around each other's waist, they walked slowly back to Cody's house. When they got there, they sat on the front porch, watching Cody's neighbors do Sunday things.

"Mother used to complain about the noise the kids made, said it disturbed her watching TV," Cody commented at one point. "I think it was more that she wished she could be out here, talking to the neighbors the way she used to before she became housebound."

"I feel sorry for her, if that's the case. I hesitate to ask, but…"

Cody understood Brent's unasked question. "Did she know the truth about what my father did to me? I don't think so. I'll never know, of course, but her attitude toward him was the same afterward, and I can't believe she could still have loved him as much as she did had she known."

Brent's reply was to hug Cody tightly as he said, "Then I'm sure she didn't."

They remained like that for a while, before Brent said, "I'm going to leave so you can get back to your book." When Cody looked at him in surprise, Brent grinned. "As I've said before, I want you to finish the damned thing so I can read it. It won't happen if I hang around."

Cody laughed. "You're crazy. You know that, don't you? But, okay, I'll let you go. When will I see you again?"

"Every day, if I have anything to say about it. Unfortunately some of my clients might have other thoughts. I'll call though, for sure." Brent smiled, leaning in to kiss Cody. When Cody returned it, Brent said, "Now I can leave happy." He got up, dropped another quick kiss on Cody's lips when the younger man looked up at him then strolled down to where he'd parked his car.

Cody watched him, smiling, waving back when Brent waved goodbye. I think I'm in love. No, I know I am. Now if he loves me…and I think he does… With that thought, he went inside, made coffee, and retired to his study to get back to work on the book.

Don't Touch Me! - 40

 

"Penny for your thoughts," Brent said.

"I was… Nothing important."

"You are very important," Brent replied, apparently misunderstanding Cody. "At least to me."

Cody ducked his head. "As a friend."

"More than a friend. I thought we already established that."

"I… I keep wondering if it's just… If what you think what you're feeling is the result of your need to be protective. The same thing that makes you a good detective—to keep the client safe."

"No," Brent said, cupping Cody's jaw to make him look up. "Take my word for it; I've never felt this way about a client until I met you. Yeah, I want to fix their problems, if I can. With you, it's more. It's become very personal. And before you take it the wrong way, I mean you've become important to me beyond just helping you regain the life you deserve." He brushed the pad of his thumb over Cody's lips. "I want to be part of that life—your life. And not, my man, as just a friend."

Cody gazed at him, trying to read the truth behind Brent's words. "You mean it, don't you?" he replied in disbelief.

"Yes." Brent leaned closer, gently kissing him before pulling away again. "You don't have to reciprocate my feelings. I'll understand."

"But I do. I think you are the most wonderful man I've ever met. And I'm not saying that because of what you've done for me, although God knows it's been more than I can ever repay. I only wish…" He sighed.

"What, Cody?"

"I wish I'd met you years ago, when you could have known the real me."

"I do know the real you, and I like what I see—a man who, in spite of all he's been through, managed to survive and become a decent, caring person."

"I didn't 'survive'. I hid," Cody protested.

"I disagree. It wasn't hiding. It was your mind protecting you from the consequences of a truly vicious act. If it hadn't, you might have destroyed yourself and the world would have lost an exceptional author and a wonderful person."

"I wonder…" Cody said slowly. "Is what he did to me where my stories come from? Not literally, but is the horror I write the result, even though I didn't remember it?"

"Possible, I suppose."

"Oh boy. Now that I know…" Cody shook his head.

Brent took Cody's hand. "If you're afraid you'll lose your ability to write, I don't see it happening. You have a talent that's an inherent part of who and what you are. Perhaps the tone of your books will change, but they'll always be wonderful."

Cody smiled. "I think you're a bit prejudiced."

"You bet I am, but it doesn't mean I'm not right."

"Where would I be now, if it wasn't for you," Cody said quietly.

"At home, writing."

"That is not what I meant."

"I know, but since we can't go back in time and find out…"

"Yeah, I'd rather not do that." He traced his finger along the contours of Brent's face. "I never expected, the day I walked into your office…" Rather than finishing his thought, Cody kissed Brent. It was tentative. In spite of the fact Brent had kissed him, he didn't want to presume Brent wanted the kiss to be returned.

Don't Touch Me! - 39

 

"When was the last time you were out in public?" Brent asked Cody. "Other than to get your mother's meds."

They were standing to one side of the hostess counter at the restaurant, waiting for their names to be called. Brent had positioned himself so he was between Cody and the other people close by.

"A year ago, at the grocery store," Cody told him. He looked around anxiously, pressing closer to the wall behind him. At the same time, he said, "You don't have to protect me."

"I'm not. There's no room beside you," Brent retorted with a smile.

"Uh-huh." Without thinking, Cody slid to one side, bumping into a man who seemed to appear out of nowhere. The man put out his hand to stop Cody, touching his arm in the process. Cody suddenly felt breathless, his pulse racing. He pushed off the wall, trying not to run as he headed for the restaurant door.

Brent was right behind him and the moment they got to the sidewalk he said, "Cody, stop. Breathe."

Cody bent over, his hand on his knees, trying desperately to regain his composure. "I guess…" he managed to get out.

"You're not quite ready for a public appearance," Brent said. "Come on. Let's walk it off."

Cody gulped in some air, straightened, and said dolefully, "I thought I'd be okay. I mean… Mrs. Grainger…"

"She's a friend, someone you know fairly well. You trust her." Putting his arm around Cody's waist, Brent told him softly, "It's going to take time for it to happen with strangers. Until then—"

"Baby steps, like you said. No diving right in anymore."

"I'm afraid so. You will beat it, just not in two days. So, since we're not eating lunch in a restaurant, how about I pick us up something from"—Brent looked around—"there, and we go to the park?"

"Can I have a kiddies' meal?" Cody asked, trying to smile.

Brent laughed. "If that's what you want, that's what you get. Come on. You can wait outside."

Brent actually got both of them burgers, fries and sodas. The park was busy when they got there but they managed to find an empty bench well away from the general hubbub. While they ate, Brent told Cody the story of how he'd become a PI.

"So that's why you and Walt are friends," Cody said when Brent finished. "Do you ever wish you'd chosen to be a cop instead?"

"Not once. I like being my own boss." Brent smiled wryly. "Well, as much as I can be, considering I have to cater to my clients if I want to stay in business. At least I have the option of saying no when someone wants to hire me."

"Did you think about turning me away when I first came to your office?"

Brent shook his head. "I was intrigued by the whole thing, and you weren't being pushy about my having to take your case. Besides which, how many times will I get to help a famous author like you who's in trouble?"

"Probably never, because I'm not that famous."

Brent snorted. "Don't kid yourself. You are. Maybe not like King or Koontz or Straub, but you're up there."

Cody beamed and blushed at the same time, earning him a soft laugh and a hug from Brent. Cody leaned into it, savoring their closeness. It had been too long since he'd been able to feel… Safe? Cared for? He turned his head to study Brent. Do I like him because he's helping me, or is there more to it than that? We seem to connect, but is it just my imagination?