Chương 8: Chapter 8

However, his usual enthusiasm for the upcoming week was absent.

Mason recalled the image of a trembling

Parker, panic writ large in his usually beautiful grey eyes. Parker

had attempted to bolt from the hot tub and run, but Mason had

somehow managed to physically restrain him.

Maintaining an outwardly calm exterior that

was at odds with what was happening inside, Mason did his best to

talk Parker down. He explained he was out to his folks.

“It’s cool, Parker. Mom isn’t mad, she’s not

gonna tell anyone what she saw. Your secret…our secret,” Mason

added as an afterthought, “is safe.”

Parker eventually relaxed and let go the

death grip he’d had on Mason’s arms. His eyes still looked

troubled, but maybe not as panicked.

“You sure?” Parker asked, beginning to shiver

despite the warm water.

“Trust me. If you like we can go get dressed.

Then we can talk to Mom and you’ll see for yourself.”

Parker shook his head. “No, I…”

Mason didn’t pursue it. Coming out could be a