An Unlocked Mind (Secrets #2)(110)

ROB QUIVERED with excitement when Vic’s key clicked in the lock. He checked the dining table again to ensure that everything was perfect. He’d found some fancy plates—with gold and blue trimming—in one of the cabinets, and decided to use them for tonight. Everything was ready.

“Rob?”

“Hold on!” He hurried to the door where Vic stood, taking off his jacket.

Vic sniffed the air. “Something smells delicious.”

Heat rushed through Rob. “I wish I could take credit, but I picked it up on my way home. One of the guys at work told me about this restaurant he said had really good food. I was a bit dubious when he told me the name, but he swears the food is fantastic.”

Vic’s brow scrunched up. “Which restaurant? Do I dare ask?”

“Well….” Rob grinned. “It’s called… are you ready for this? To Thai For.”

Vic blinked and then groaned. “Okay, that’s bad.” He cocked his head. “What’s the occasion? I know it’s not your birthday, and it’s definitely not mine.”

Rob reached into his pocket and took out his wallet. He opened it, counted out the money he’d been saving, and handed it to Vic. “I know this isn’t all of it, but it’s a start. Thank you for what you did for me.”

At first Vic stared at Rob, but then his gaze shifted to the money. “I’m going to take this. You didn’t need to do it, but I know it’s important to you that you pay your own way. We’re going to put this into a bank account for you.”

“But—”

Vic raised a hand. “One day you might decide you want to take some classes, to learn new things about landscaping. Or you may want to do something completely different. This will give you something to build your future on.”

Rob folded his arms across his chest. “Are you done now? Can I get a word in?”

Vic smirked. “Go ahead, cheeky brat.”

“I love my job. When we finish a project, I can step back and take pride in what I’ve done. But you have to understand, that’s a rare feeling for me. I used to be jealous of Alex and his success. Hell, I was even jealous of you for a while. The thing is, though? I’ve come to realize—with your help—that I need to stand on my own two feet, not as Alex’s brother or as Vic’s sub or lover, but in my own right.” He smiled. “So your offer is very much appreciated. I was thinking maybe one day I might like to start a little shop of my own, or go back to college and see about moving up in the company.” He gave Vic a wry grin. “Of course, you might not like that idea. If I spend more time studying, that’s less time to take care of you.”

Vic stroked his beard. “Will you still have time to blow me on occasion?”

Rob chuckled. “I think I can make time for that.” He took a step closer and lowered his voice into a seductive whisper. “In fact, I might even find some time for riding lessons.”

Vic’s eyes widened slightly. He slid a hand over Rob’s cheek, and Rob leaned into the touch. He would never get tired of the possessive nature Vic demonstrated on a daily basis.

Vic cleared his throat. “Okay, back to your idea. I think it’s great. And if you ever need me, you know I’ll be there. I’m so proud of you. But….”

Months ago, Rob would have freaked out when Vic said but. Now he stood tall, his chin up, waiting. “But?”

Vic ran a hand over his stomach. “Can we talk about this after dinner? I’m starving.”

“Oh, well, I guess. I mean, I had dessert all planned out, but if you’d rather talk….” He waggled his eyebrows.

Vic pulled him close and claimed his mouth. When he stepped back, Vic’s eyes were wide. “On second thought, we have a microwave and I might not be that hungry.”

Rob laughed. “Let’s eat first. I’ve got it plated and everything, so we should enjoy it while it’s hot.”

“Fine.” Vic sighed. He strode to the table and sat down, leaning over the plated dish to inhale its aromas. “Okay, this is good. We’ll have to order this again.” Before Rob could serve him, Vic helped himself to several spoonfuls. He paused and glanced innocently at Rob. “Oh. Did you want some too?” Vic gave him a sheepish grin. “I did warn you I was hungry.” He peered at the dish. “Is this everything?”

Rob let out an exaggerated sigh. “It’s a good thing we both have jobs. It’s expensive to feed you.” He got up from the table, went into the kitchen and retrieved the remaining two dishes. He came back and placed them in front of Vic. “Here you go.”

Vic stared. “There is more. I was only teasing. Eat your dinner.”

Rob helped himself to some food while there still was some. “It’s okay. I know how you are on Friday nights. I got extra of everything.”

Vic gazed at him. “I love that you know me so well.”

Rob had never imagined he could be this in love. Vic, however, was something special. He could see now why Alex fell so hard for Leo. To find that one person who accepted you with all your insecurities? Except Vic didn’t simply accept Rob. He guided him, gave him strength, believed in him when Rob wasn’t able to believe in himself. Before meeting Vic, Rob had been scared to death of being alone, or worse, trapped in a marriage like his parents. Vic had dragged him out of the shadows, shone a light on everything Rob was terrified of becoming, and showed him that none of it was real. That he was capable not only of receiving love, but of giving it too.