Hide And Keep by K. Sterling Read Free Book Online Page A

He announced as he went into the kitchen. Aiden felt warm bright colors burst within him and he had to clench his hands at his sides to keep from jumping up and laughing. Another memory.
    “But just orange cheese. I don’t like white cheese.” Aiden called and Lane laughed from inside the fridge.
    “Cheddar. Got it.” He replied.
    Fifteen minutes later, Aiden had to blink back tears as he stared at two grilled cheese sandwiches, apples, grapes and cucumbers. It was perfect. He hooked his feet around the chair legs, straightened his back and locked his shoulders to keep from rocking as he started to eat. Aiden ate his sandwiches quickly then the cucumbers. He ate his apples and looked up at Lane as he popped the last grape into his mouth and found him watching. Aiden raised a brow in question and Lane smiled as he leaned back in his seat.
    “You eat like a toddler.” He said and Aiden frowned as he tried to understand.
    “I don’t think that’s accurate. I am much neater than a toddler when I eat. Also, I have significantly more teeth, so I can cope with more larger, solid foods.” He argued and Lane laughed.
    “I’m sorry, you have the diet of a toddler, Aiden.” Lane amended. Aiden’s eyes flicked toward the ceiling as he considered and he nodded.
    “Possibly. But I don’t like bananas.” He admitted and Lane laughed again as he took their plates to the kitchen.
    “You know, you’re kind of adorable once you get used to the lack of filter, Aiden.” Lane said as he started loading the dishwasher. Aiden narrowed his eyes as he stared at Lane and tried to decide if it was a sincere compliment. He had a feeling it was and it made him warm. Time to show him you’re a man, Aiden decided as he stood up.
    “I’d like to make you something. How about a cocktail?” Aiden asked as he walked toward the bar in the living room.
    “I thought you didn’t drink.” Lane called from the sink. Aiden nodded as he took stock of the liquor and mixers.
    “I don’t but my parents used to host parties and I would bartend. I’ve memorized at least a hundred drinks.” Aiden said as he went to the kitchen. “I need ice.” He announced as he pulled the freezer open. “What would you like?” Aiden asked as he shut the door and leaned against it. Lane shrugged.
    “Surprise me.” He said with a wink. Aiden let his lips tilt in an easy grin and made his eyes look drowsy.
    “I intend to.” He said softly as he slowly brushed past Lane. He let his hand drag across Lane’s lower back slowly and he smiled when Lane stiffened and held his breath.
    Aiden made an old fashioned with orange bitters and set it on the coffee table as he waited for Lane to join him. Lane looked wary when he settled on the sofa next to Aiden and reached for his drink. He took a cautious sip and smiled as he swallowed.
    “That’s delightful.” He sighed as he reclined. Aiden nodded as his arm extended along the back of the sofa and let his hand rest behind Lane’s shoulders.
    “Why Cabbot?” Aiden asked as he traced Lane’s shoulder lightly with his middle finger. Lane frowned.
    “Do we have to talk about my sex life?” He asked warily. Aiden’s head tilted.
    “Why not?” Aiden countered and Lane sighed wearily.
    “Because you just met the last two years. It’s not exactly something I’m really excited about or proud of.” He admitted. “Why don’t we talk about yours?” Lane looked at Aiden pointedly. Aiden shrugged.
    “Fine. What do you want to know?” He asked and Lane looked surprised. Was he expecting Aiden to deflect? Lane leaned closer and Aiden started to stroke between his shoulder blades.
    “Are you seeing anyone back home, in D.C.?” Lane asked. Aiden bit his lip as he considered.
    “I spend more time away from D.C. than I do there. I’m not in a relationship with anyone but I do have someone that I have sex with regularly, when I’m in town.” He explained and Lane’s eyes narrowed as they searched