Easton’s smile was a little leery, like he wasn’t sure what reception he would get. But he still nodded, and with his eyes fixed on me, he assured Nesto I was in good hands.

I closed the door to the apartment and walked to the couch and sat on the coffee table across from him. I could tell myself all kinds of things, but it was going to be very hard to ignore the effect that Easton’s mere presence had on me.

“Thanks for the champagne. I’d offer you some, but I haven’t had food since like 11:00 a.m. this morning, and I’m a lightweight when it comes to alcohol.”

He shook his head and leaned in a little, trying to move closer.

“I didn’t bring it for you to open it for me. You can do it later, drink it with whomever you want.”

I gestured to the stainless steel refrigerator which now held the bottle of champagne and nothing else. “I’d love to drink it with you, after I have something to eat. I’m sure there’s something we could order. I haven’t had time to go food shopping yet.” I grimaced, pointing at the takeout bag Nesto had brought from the restaurant. “I love Ernesto like a brother, but I can’t eat another burrito.” Easton cracked a sympathetic smile at that and stood up suddenly.

“If you’re up for it, I can make something at my place.” He said it tentatively, like he was pretty sure he was getting a yes, but didn’t want to seem too cocky either.

I wasn’t sure what I was doing with Easton. I really didn’t. It seemed like my ability to follow through on boundaries just didn’t work when it came to him.

“That sounds great.” There was that smile. Like the fucking sun.

“Good.” The way he said that, like I’d just offered him the exact thing he needed, made my gut tighten with want. “Is there anything you don’t like?”

“Nah man, I’m good with everything, as long as I don’t have to cook it.”

He laughed, and looked so pleased. And if I was being honest, I felt good too. I wanted to keep that going. Always see Easton smiling.

“Well, I love to cook. I love feeding people too. Now I’ll know who to call when I make too much food.” My stupid heart lurched at that.

“I’m always up for getting spoiled a little.” That wasn’t a lie, between my mom and the guys’ mothers, we were always getting fed.

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Suddenly something changed and Easton’s eyes were smoldering. What had I said? Who the fuck cared?