Page 242 of A Matter of Time

He let out a deep breath as I took a step back. “Would have what?”

I shook my head.

“Talk to me.”

“I just figured you’d go back to your life.”

“Meaning what?”

I cleared my throat. “C’mon, let’s eat.” I smiled, gesturing to the hostess, who was trying to get my attention. “I’m starving, and I had a lot to drink.”

“You did?”

“Oh hell yeah.”

“Tell me all about your date.”

I smiled as we followed the hostess to the table. We were in a booth toward the back, and since I hadn’t requested that, I had to wonder if she was trying to tuck us away because we looked like trouble. I would have if I were her.

“So, talk,” he ordered me, sliding over until his knee bumped mine. I chuckled as I recounted my adventures at Brava.

“The girl sounds nice.”

“She’s the kind of girl you need.”

“I got what I need right here,” he said flatly.

I tipped my head to look at him. “It’s been a long time, Sam.”

“So what? You told me there was nobody special.”

“Maybe I lied.”

“Well, I don’t see a ring on your finger.”

Ridiculous argument. “Gay men don’t wear⁠—”

“Oh, the fuck they don’t. Who says what they can or can’t do?”

“Sam—”

“You’re gonna wear a ring for me.”

I rolled my eyes and turned my attention to the waiter. I ordered a club sandwich and soup, and Sam ended up having the same. Alone again, Sam slid closer, putting an arm around the back of the seat.

“Listen, J—” he began, the deep sigh making me smile. “What?”

“Nothing.”

“What? C’mon.”

“I just never in my life thought I would see you again.”

“That is funny.” He squinted at me. “I myself never once doubted that you would.”

I was silent before I went at him from another angle. “Sam, isn’t your life good right now?”

“Yes, it is.”