Page 210 of Once in a Lifetime, Part 2

“Just like my ex,” Tom cut in. “Only she had a different reason. I was fucking her every day.”

“Yeah, sure you were,” someone scoffed, exhaling smoke.

“What about that college girl glued to you?” another added. “She into it from behind too, or what?”

“I’ll let you know soon enough,” he said with a grin.

They laughed, loud and careless. By the time they reached the top, they spotted two figures ahead of them, close. Kissing.

“Ohhh, hold up. Look at that.”

“Lovebirds.”

“Hey, take it easy, you two. This is a public place, you know—” His voice cut off when they shifted, just enough for the five boys to see them clearly.

“No way dude…”

“You seeing this?”

“If you’re seeing two faggots, then yeah.”

Laughter broke out again, louder this time.

Ody’s stomach dropped. Mano didn’t move.

One of the guys flicked his cigarette onto the grass and stepped forward. “Can I ask you something?” he said. “Don’t you feel disgusted kissing another dude?”

The others followed, closing the distance.

Mano stepped in front of Ody, his hand pressing back against him, keeping him behind him.

“I’ve got a better question,” Tom said. “Which one of you is the girlfriend?”

“Come on, dude, have some shame,” the others laughed.

“No, seriously, someone’s gotta be taking it.”

“I’m telling you, it’s the tall one. Can’t you see how the Doberman stepped in to protect him?”

They laughed again.

Mano’s jaw tightened. His fists clenched at his sides.

They stopped right in front of them. One of the guys reached out, his hand lifting toward Ody’s face.

Mano moved instantly, slapping it away. “Keep your hands to yourself before I break them.”

“What did you say, faggot?” the guy snapped, his tone turning sharp. “You sissies talking back now? Why don’t you go suck a dick and leave us alone with your girlfriend?” His gaze moved to Ody.

Ody’s back was nearly against the metal railing, the five of them boxing them in.

Mano didn’t move. His body stayed between them, solid, unyielding. If he’d been alone, this would’ve gone differently. But Ody was behind him. And that was enough.

Mano’s gaze locked onto the guy in front of him.

“What are you staring at, you little faggot? You stepping away from him, or do I make you?”

A few months ago, he would’ve swung without thinking. Now, the only thing that mattered was keeping Ody safe.