Page 131 of Septembers

“Dae…” He sucked in artificial pine-scented air. “My dad doesn’t deserve—I mean, you’re the one who—I want to…”

The pad of Dae’s thumb trailed over Theo’s cheek. “Have you been crying?”

“Dae, listen.” He grabbed his arms, holding on tight. “I’m not my dad. I’m sorry it took me so long to see it, but I don’t need to prove it anymore.”

Dae watched him with wide, proud eyes that began to shine. They were pure art: their shape, colour, and intensity. Theo wanted them to be the last thing he saw before he shuffled off this mortal coil.

“And,” Theo wheezed, “I choose you. Every time.”

Dae’s confused concern morphed into soft warmth. “I don’t need you to choose me every time.”

“Every time it matters.” He pulled him close and kissed the corner of his mouth with the freckle, the part he couldn’t squash, the quirk that always gave his smile away.

Dae gifted him with his dimples, then let out a laughing breath. “You love making an entrance.”

“Tonight the entrance is all yours.” He laced their fingers. “Everyone will see how charming and competent and smart you are. I’m just decoration.”

Dae squeezed his hand. “I’m glad you’re here.”

The relief pouring off him was proof enough that Theo had done the right thing. “Of course you are. I’m wearing my tight suit.”

“That does help, but it’s more like…” Dae studied his face, working something out. “I feel better when I’m with you. More…worth it?”

Theo had always and would always love the way Dae blushed. Instantaneous. “How do you still not get it? I’m the one who’s better because of y⁠—”

“We’re here.” The driver looked at them in the rearview and gave a zero-fucks shrug. Theo scowled. Cool Uncle Driver would never.

They paid him and climbed out, the fresh autumn air pushing the pine chemicals from their lungs. A group of women passed by, heels clicking, skirts swooshing, their laughter high and tinkling. A glow came from the window of the bar, and a catchy song leaked from the open door.

Dae’s breath fogged the air between them as he gave Theo a short, sweet kiss. “I love you.”

“I love you.” Theo linked their arms and led him to the door, ready to be the supportive, uplifting, sexy date his amazing boyfriend deserved. “Let’s do this.”

Tenth September

**Theo changed the chat name from Wedding Party to Party Platoon**

Jordan

he refuses to have a group name that isn’t an alliteration or rhyme

was either this or fancy force

Caleb

Do we get a vote? I like Fancy Force

Sophia “Jason” Petrillo

Matrimony Mob?

Jordan

Bridal Bunch

Aunt Liana:

Spousal Squad