“So, we’re talking about making out? Kissing? Touching? If she was into it, you’re fine.”

“That’s just it. We didn’t do more than that, but it’s so much more than just kissing or touching between us. I don’t mean physically. I mean emotionally.” Quincy looked around to make sure no customers were in earshot and said, “I’ve never…She fucking blows me away.”

“That good, huh?”

“I’m not kidding, man. Kissing her is fucking unreal. If we’d been standing last night when we got into it, she would have taken me to my knees.”

Jed nudged him with his elbow and said, “I’m sure you would have made good use of that position.”

“No shit, but it’s not about that. We spent months texting, keeping it light, and in two nights I feel all of this? Have you ever experienced anything that powerful with a woman?”

“Yes, and I’m marrying her next month.”

“Right. Of all people, you know what I’m talking about.” He paced in the aisle and said, “You know I always own up to my shit, but I’m nervous about telling Roni about my past. I’m really into her, and I want more time with her.”

“And you’re afraid you might never get the chance once you tell her?”

“Exactly, but she deserves to know the truth before we get in any deeper. I’ve never cared what people thought about my past until she came into my life, and these last few months, it’s been weighing on me.”

“I know. I was right there by your side as you waited out your two-years-clean mark to prove that you could do it.” Jed put a hand on Quincy’s shoulder and said, “Listen, you won’t want to hear this, but you already know it, because I’ve heard you say it. If she can’t see you for the man you are today, then she’s not the right woman for you. End of story.”

Quincy raked a hand through his hair, swallowing that sharp-edged truth, and said, “You’re absolutely right. I just wish I had told her before last night. I’m already in deep, Jed.”

“I knew you were last night. Whatever happens, we’ll get through it. I’ve got your back, Quincy.”

“I know. Enough about my shit. What’re you doing here? Need a book for Hail?”

“No. I’m looking for a book about getting through to teenagers for the Young Knights program.” Earlier this year, Jed started the Young Knights, which was like the Big Brother mentoring program, but it was run through the Dark Knights. Now there were about a dozen kids taking part in the program. “We’ve got a new kid who’s a bit ornery. I want to make sure I’m doing things right.”

“Ornery teenagers should be right up your alley. Follow me, my friend.”

BY THE TIME Quincy climbed onto his motorcycle after work, he was wound tighter than a top. He and Roni had both worked until seven, and they had plans to see each other at eight thirty, but the guilt of not telling her about his past was eating away at him. He’d tried texting, but she hadn’t responded, so he rode straight to the studio, hoping to catch her early.