Chapter 12: Chapter 12

“If we stack one on top of the other, I think we can get them both down to the water pretty easily. I picked light ones,” Jason said.

“Good idea,” Howard agreed.

It took them several tries to get the kayaks positioned, but finally they were able and they made their way down to the water. Once they had deposited the kayaks on the ground, Jason helped Howard adjust his life jacket. Although he was sure that there were people who assisted others with this every day, there was an intimacy in helping Howard that made him want to lean over and kiss the other man again. When they had finished securing Howard’s jackets, Howard reached for Jason’s life jacket and held it behind him. Jason stretched his arms back into it, and it reminded him of the countless mornings Howard had stood behind him making sure that he got into a suit jacket or a sports coat correctly.

“I forgot to bring flip-flops or water shoes,” Jason said.