Ch. 71..80

Chapter 71

Zeno, who was backing Ken, was surprised to hear his voice; he’d been caught off guard.

He immediately stepped away from Sebastian and turned to Ken, "No, he’s not hugging me, Ken, he’s just helping with my belt, yes, my belt," Zeno felt his ears turning red from embarrassment and lying.

"Oh, okay, how do I look?" Ken spread his arms and smiled at Zeno, proudly showing off his white shirt with the Spongebob drawing imprinted on the chest.

Zeno cleared his throat, he was surprised to see that Ken had a cloth that looked like a child’s.

He nodded, "It’s cool, Ken, let’s go downstairs; Nicholas must be waiting, "He went over to Ken and held his hand, leading him past Sebastian, who was staring at them with unreadable eyes.

Sebastian felt like he was the unloved parent, the one who the child didn’t like to spend time with.

"What the fuck..." He muttered and sighed.

Where the hell did he get the idea of Zeno being Ken’s parent? Something must be going on in his brain, he must need to see a psychiatrist for even letting himself think that way.

He went over to Ken’s bed and picked up Zeno’s phone which he had forgotten, and walked out of the room.

Downstairs, Nicholas and Zeno were already walking out of the house with Ken between them.

He silently followed them, waiting for when Zeno would realize that he didn’t have his phone.

They stepped outside and Sebastian saw Zeno walking toward Nicholas’ car.

He scoffed silently. Did Zeno really think he was about to let him have some dumb "quality time" with Nicholas today?

He could keep dreaming.

"Zeno," Sebastian called when Zeno was almost reaching Nicholas’s car.

Zeno paused and turned, "Yes, boss," He replied but didn’t look at his face.

"Bring Ken over here," He said, pointing to his car.

Zeno didn’t respond but Sebastian saw him saying something to Nicholas and then held Ken’s hand and led him over to him.

"Are we riding with Daddy?" Ken asked.

"Yes," Zeno nodded.

Sebastian took Ken’s hand from him as they reached his side.

"You’re riding with me, baby girl," Sebastian said beside Zeno before going to open the car for Ken.

Zeno sighed, he already knew that’s what was going to happen and had told Nicholas to go ahead on his own.

He went closer to Sebastian who had his upper body leaned into the car as he strapped Ken’s seat belt on.

"Do I drive, boss?" He asked.

Sebastian finished with Ken and straightened up to look at Zeno.

"Get in the car, Sweetcheeks, I’m driving," He smirked at Zeno and walked around him to get in the car.

Zeno was already feeling exhausted without having gone to the park yet.

He walked over to the other side of the car and entered the front seat.

As he shut his door, he saw Nicholas’ car already driving out of the gate and felt bad. He knew Nicholas was here for him, but it seemed like a certain someone wasn’t about to let that happen.

Zeno suddenly heard the familiar message beep on his phone and put his hand in his pocket.

"Looking for this?" Sebastian asked as he started driving the car toward the gate.

Zeno was surprised to see his phone in Sebastian’s hand, "Um, yeah, thank-"

"Not so fast, let’s see what our boy-"

"Boss..." Zeno interrupted, subtly moving his head behind the car, reminding him of Ken who was busy on his tablet watching videos.

"Well, let’s see," Sebastian held the stirring with one hand while he swiped through Zeno’s phone with his free hand.

"You don’t have to read my messages..." Zeno said in a tired voice.

"It says; see you at the park," Sebastian said with a raised brow then returned the phone to Zeno

"He’s sweet, isn’t he?" He asked, driving in the direction Nicholas had gone.

Zeno didn’t reply, he simply lay his head on the headrest and shut his eyes.

"I asked a question, Mr. Evander," Sebastian suddenly placed his hand on Zeno’s thigh, causing his eyes to fly open.

The first thing Zeno did was to check if Ken was looking through the front view mirror, sighing when he saw that he was still buried in his tablet.

"Sebastian..." Zeno whispered with a frown.

He placed a hand over Sebastian’s wandering hand, stopping it from going up his thigh. "You have to stop this, Seb-"

"Answer my question," Sebastian said without taking his eyes off the road.

"Do you think Nicholas is s-"

"Yes, he is. He is sweet, kind, handsome, hot, and - shit!" Zeno braced his hand on the headboard, snapping his head at Sebastian in anger.

He couldn’t hold his anger back this time.

Sebastian had violently swerved the car and almost ran into the pedestrian.

"Ken, you okay?" Zeno turned his head to the boy at the back.

He was properly strapped, unaffected by the sudden swerve.

"I’m fine, Zeno, that was awesome, Dad, can we do it again?" Ken asked excitedly.

"Depends, son, depends," Sebastian replied and put the car back on the right track.

"No, Ken, we won’t be doing it anymore, it’s dangerous, understood?" Zeno asked gently.

Ken sighed and nodded. "Understood," He went back to his tablet.

As the car proceeded in a smooth drive this time, Zeno kept glaring at Sebastian who just ignored him and focused on driving.

"You might not care about my life, but playing that way with a child in the car is just not acceptable, Sebastian; it’s inhumane," Zeno was clenching his fists to hold back his anger.

He never tolerated any form of abuse to a child.

Sebastian scoffed. "My child, Zeno, not yours," He replied.

"Well then treat him like one," Zeno bit back.

"Watch your words, Zeno," Sebastian warned.

"No, you watch your attitude, Mr. Sebastian!" Zeno flamed, clenching his fists.

Sebastian was shocked to hear Zeno raising his voice so angrily at him, in front of his son too.

He suddenly parked the car and turned to Zeno, "Get out of the car," He ordered.

Zeno gritted his teeth; he knew he had overstepped his boundary this time, but was that why Sebastian was dropping him off on the road?

He was about to say something to Sebastian when he heard Ken’s excited voice behind them.

"Nicholas! We’re here, Yay!" Ken started to remove his seat belt so he could leave the car.

That’s when Zeno looked up from his lap and stared out of his window.

They had reached the park.

He saw Nicholas walking toward them.

"Oh...we’ve arrived," He muttered to himself.

"What were you thinking? Get out of the car already," Sebastian said and got down from the car and opened the car for his son.

Zeno got himself out of the car, thinking about how he was going to apologize for the way he spoke to his boss.

He absolutely had no right to speak to Sebastian in that manner.

Firstly, he was just a bodyguard. Secondly, Ken wasn’t his son. He knew Sebastian was angry, but he was ignoring him for the sake of his son.

He stood beside the car and watched Sebastian take Ken to meet Nicholas, "Do your uncle duties; you brought him to the park; you take care of him. Go get him some snacks," He handed Ken to Nicholas and walked away.

Nicholas sent Zeno a short look before walking away with Ken.

Zeno sighed when he saw Sebastian coming back to him.

He was still standing under the tree where Sebastian had parked his car. The place was a large park, and children were running around everywhere, their parents walking slowly behind them in supervision.

He didn’t have to wait for Sebastian to walk back to the car because he started to walk toward him too.

They stood in front of each other and Zeno was the first to speak.

"Boss, I’m sorry for the way I spoke to you earlier, it was out of place," Zeno apologized, looking into Sebastian’s eyes.

"Then why did you do it?" He questioned Zeno.

Zeno bit his lips, "I was angry about the way you swerved the car...it was just too dangerous with a child in there, but as you said, he’s not mine and I shouldn’t have reacted that way,"

Sebastian nodded, "Good thing you still have a functioning brain, Zeno, I thought you lost it to Nicholas," He taunted.

Zeno remained quiet, he was ready for the insults he knew that were coming.

"I might let it slide this time, and I’ll leave you with a kind reminder," Sebastian stepped closer to Zeno and whispered beside his face.

Zeno stood still, waiting for Sebastian’s hurtful words.

"Never disrespect me that way, and never in front of my son. No matter how much I fuck with you, it’s never going to make you worth speaking to me in that manner, are we clear here, baby girl?" Sebastian asked.

Zeno gritted his teeth and nodded, "Yes, boss..." Just a few months more, and he’d be out of this crappy situation.

Sebastian stepped away and stared at Zeno’s face, then he turned around and walked away.

’Fuck, I did it again,’ Sebastian sighed in frustration.

He’d once again succeeded in speaking to Zeno in a way that’d make him run miles away from him and into Nicholas’ arms.

"Zeno! Come on, we’re going to the haunted house!" Ken ran last his father and went over to Zeno.

 

 

Chapter 72

Zeno almost lost his balance as Ken dragged his hand toward Nicholas.

He reached Sebastian’s side and also held his hand, dragging both of them toward Nicholas who was standing in front of the haunted house.

Sebastian couldn’t refuse his child; he didn’t want to be beside Zeno at that moment as he was still feeling unsure of how he truly felt about what happened.

All those things he said to Zeno, he had said them out of jealousy.

He was jealous about how Zeno was describing Nicholas in the car; he was hurting, so he hurt Zeno in return.

That wasn’t the best manly thing to do, but who could blame him, that was the only thing he knew.

Talking it out? Nope, He didn’t do talking, he was all about action.

"Ouch!" A young lady in a short blue skirt and a white shirt suddenly bumped into Zeno as they were walking and fell to the grassy floor.

"I’m so sorry. Are you okay?" Zeno gently removed his hand from Ken’s hand and leaned down to help the lady.

"Um..." The lady took Zeno’s hand and allowed him to help her up.

"I’m fine now that you’re holding me, do you have a girlfriend?" She asked in a sultry tone.

Zeno didn’t realize when he chuckled; he found the girl amusing, and she momentarily took his mind off the brooding man standing not far from them and giving him a murderous glare.

"You don’t, right?" The lady asked, smiling

Zeno shook his head, "I don’t," He stepped away from her.

The girl stepped closer to him immediately, "Then, do you-"

"He doesn’t have a girlfriend but he sure has a boyfriend," Nicholas replied from behind the girl and went over to Zeno, placing his hand around his waist.

The girl widened her eyes in shock and excitement, "Oh my God, I’m a BL fan, and I love to see guys together. Can I get a picture?" She squeaked excitedly.

Zeno was still processing what Nicholas was doing when he heard him agreeing to the girl.

"Sure," Nicholas nodded and drew Zeno closer to his side.

The girl looked around and saw Sebastian, "Um, I’m sorry, can you help me click a few pictures?" She was already handing her phone to him without waiting for his reply.

Sebastian sighed, he wanted to say no, but that would be petty. Right?

He was still bitter about Nicholas’ false claim of being Zeno’s boyfriend; he was jealous because he knew he could never say that, and his reputation would be soiled.

He had to keep a neutral face as he took the phone from the girl and moved closer to them.

After clicking three times, he handed the phone back to the young lady and turned away from Zeno and Nicholas.

"Come on, Son, let’s give Zeno and his boyfriend some space," he led Ken into the haunted house.

"I wish you both happiness, bye!" The girl waved to Zeno and Nicholas before walking away.

Zeno sighed and stepped away from Nicholas.

"I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable, but that was the only way she’d stay away from you," Nicholas explained.

Zeno smiled, "Nah, I understand, thanks for helping," Zeno replied, searching for Sebastian with his eyes.

Had he really left them after acting jealous?

Yes, he knew Sebastian was acting jealous, and at the same time, he knew he didn’t love him.

He’d come to realize that Sebastian was only jealous when he saw that he wasn’t in control of him at that moment, he didn’t like power to shift from his hand.

He was such a possessive and authoritative person who believed that Zeno was his property, and whenever anyone got close to him, he got overly protective and jealous of that property.

But Zeno was learning how not to give a fuck as long as it wasn’t related to his work; he wouldn’t care what Sebastian thought or felt.

"I don’t blame her, though, anyone would want you as their boyfriend," He heard Nicholas say behind him.

He turned to Nicholas and saw the admiration in his eyes, he knew the man was down bad for him, but he needed some time, a lot of time, before he could reciprocate his feelings.

Zeno chuckled, "Not everyone..." his mind went to Sebastian as he replied to Nicholas.

If everyone wanted him as a boyfriend, then he guessed he would have been an item with Sebastian.

But that was a taboo topic for them to discuss; it wasn’t as if he wanted to be his boyfriend; he already knew the standard, but if he were ever asked to choose someone to be his boyfriend...take away the tamper from Sebastian, he’d chose him.

Yep, he said it.

He was too old to be denying his feelings, and it just happened that he realized it better now that Nicholas was showing interest in him.

He felt guilty at first using Nicholas as an emotional pendulum, but he wasn’t going to lead him on if he hadn’t resolved his feelings for his boss.

He was stupid for letting himself feel something for Sebastian, but he wasn’t in control of it, he just realized it suddenly.

"Come, looks like they want to have a father-son time, let’s find something to do," Nicholas said and walked ahead.

Zeno released a long sigh and cracked his neck before following the path between the tall trees where Nicholas had walked through.

"Over here, Zeno!" Nicholas waved Zeno over in front of a claw machine.

Zeno looked in his direction and saw him already trying to claw some toy out.

Zeno never liked that game, it embarrassed him because he’d never succeeded in getting anything out of the machine.

"You can play this?" He asked as he stood beside Nicholas.

Nicholas nodded, "Just a little bit to the right and...got it!" He leaned over and picked up a stuffed panda bear.

"Here, for you," He handed the stuffed Panda to Zeno.

Zeno chuckled, "Seriously? I’m not a kid or a girl; you can give it to Ken; I’m sure he’d love it," He replied.

It was when Zeno saw the disappointment on Nicholas’ face that he suddenly understood why he was giving him the stuffed panda.

’Shit, I fucked up,’ He muttered to himself.

"Or, I’ll just take it, thank you, it’s cute," He took the stuffed Panda from Nicholas and stared at it.

Nicholas smiled, happy that Zeno accepted his gift.

Zeno was glad he accepted it, he almost made Nicholas believe that he wasn’t interested in him, well, technically...he wasn’t, but he was.

It was complicated.

The whole truth was that, if there was no Sebastian, then it would’ve been Nicholas.

But as there is a Sebastian, there isn’t going to be a Nicholas, until Sebastian’s era was over, period.

"Um, Zeno..." Nicholas called.

Zeno removed his eyes from the Panda and stared at Nicholas, "Yes?"

"I need to make a quick call; I’ll be right back, I mean, if that’s okay with you; if not, I can just stay with you," Nicholas added.

Zeno shook his head, "You can go, Nicholas. Don’t forget I’m a boxer. I can be by myself, and I have Kongfu Panda with me too," Zeno joked, shaking the panda in front of Nicholas.

Nicholas nodded, he moved toward Zeno but retraced his steps.

"I’ll be right back," He said to Zeno and walked away.

Zeno sighed and started to walk away from the claw machine. He knew Nicholas had held himself back from kissing him, and he was thankful to him for being considerate.

Zeno was busy staring at the panda when he bumped into someone again.

He looked up at the person with a smile, thinking it was the same girl who had bumped into him the last time. However, his smile faded when he was faced with someone in an oversized hoody.

"Oh, I’m sorry, I wasn’t watching my steps," The person spoke, and he identified the voice as a woman’s voice.

He squinted his eyes at her, the voice was familiar, but he couldn’t remember from where he’d heard it before.

"No problem, have a nice day," Zeno replied and was about to walk past her but she grabbed his arm and stepped into his space.

"Please, I’m sorry, but I need you to listen to me," The lady begged.

Zeno frowned and stared at her covered face; he was only holding back because it was a woman; if not, he’d have pinned her down to the floor.

"What do you want, lady?" Zeno asked, not entirely letting his guard down.

"Please, I need a favor from you; I’m dressed like this because I know you wouldn’t have listened if you saw my face," the lady said in a muffled voice.

"Well you still have to tell me who you are if you need my help," Zeno replied sternly.

"My name is, Georgia Einstein, Kenneth’s Mother." She introduced herself quietly.

 

 

Chapter 73

Zeno immediately recognized her voice now that she had introduced herself.

No wonder he couldn’t stop wondering where he’d met her.

She was the woman who planted that chip in his clothes the first day he took Ken to school.

He gripped her hand tightly but not painfully, "You, are here to set me up like the last time?" He questioned in a low voice.

Georgia vigorously shook her head, "No, no, Zeno, please, I’m sorry for what I did last time. I was wrong; I know how my husband can be; I’m sorry for whatever pain my actions put you through," She gently lifted her head, showing a little of her face.

It was her, Zeno recognized her fair skin and blonde hair.

But why had she referred to Sebastian as her husband? Weren’t they divorced as he believed?

He didn’t realize that the word "husband" could cause so much hurt coming from someone’s mouth.

If Sebastian was still married to Georgia, then why was he doing what he was doing with him?

Well, it wasn’t as if they were an item, so he was clear from all their family drama, but still...it hurt.

He slowly stepped away from her and questioned, "What do you want, Georgia?"

Georgia looked at Zeno’s face and smiled at him sadly, "I know I’m asking too much, and I know it’s none of your business, but you’re the only one who I’ve seen close to my son and my husband, you’re the only one who can deliver my message across to them," She held his hand and went closer to him.

"Please, help me tell Sebastian that I was wrong and I regret what I did in the past, tell him I want to return to his life and my child’s life. Please, Zeno, help a mother out; I no longer want to hide; I want to return home by Sebastian’s side. Please, help me," Georgia begged, sniffling as if she was holding back her tears.

Zeno clenched his fist beside him. Georgia’s words were like sharp knives, slashing his heart as she spoke.

He found himself ridiculous, he never believed he’d be jealous of a woman over another man, but here he was, feeling the jealousy resonate throughout his body.

However, he couldn’t do anything about it. It wasn’t his business; if Sebastian decided to get back with his wife or take another wife, Zeno knew he had no right to stop him.

"I’m sorry to hear that you are living this way, but this is really not my business; it’s not in my job description either. I suggest you tell him how you feel yourself, Ms. Georgia; I’m the wrong person to tell," Zeno gently refused.

Georgia shook her head, "No, please, Zeno. I know you’ll help me, I’ve seen how you relate with my son, and I know you have a pure soul, please. Take this, make sure he reads it, please. He’d understand why I did what I did, please...Zeno..." She put her hand in her pocket, took out a thin folded paper, and placed it in Zeno’s hand.

Zeno was speechless; he didn’t know what else to d., Georgia seemed repentant of whatever it was that happened back then, and if they’ve really not divorced, then he would feel obliged to help her out.

In this case, he was the meddler.

"Zeno!" Ken called from behind as he walked out of the haunted house with his father.

"I have to go, Zeno, please tell Sebastian all I said. I’m counting on you; bye," She drew down her hoodie and covered her face, then turned and walked away briskly.

Zeno stared at the paper in his hand and put it into his pocket before turning to answer Ken.

Sebastian stood behind Ken, he’d just come out from a boring haunted house, which Ken would argue wasn’t boring because he kept screaming his lungs out at every skeleton that popped up.

The point was that Sebastian was expecting to come out and have some peace, not coming out to see Zeno with some other unknown lady.

It seems like he shouldn’t be allowing Zeno out alone. He’d noticed how girls flocked around him and he wasn’t comfortable with it.

"Did you have fun, Ken?" Zeno stretched his hand for Ken to take.

He resisted the urge to look at Sebastian, now that he had acknowledged to himself that he felt something for his boss, he found it harder to behave naturally around him without thinking that he’d show it in his actions or let it slip from his mouth.

"Yes, I was very scared; I heard the ghost howling and the skeletons kept popping out from the walls," Ken narrated excitedly.

Zeno nodded with a smile. "That sounds like fun," He replied.

"You seem to have had your share of fun..." Sebastian walked up to Zeno, standing a little away from him.

He was still finding a way to cope with Nicholas’ closeness to Zeno and some girls decided to add to his problem.

His eyes were glued to Zeno’s other hand, frowning at the Panda in his hand and wondering if perhaps it was a gift from one of the girls.

"I don’t know what you’re talking about, boss," Zeno lowered his head as he replied.

"You-"

"Where’s Nicholas?" Ken questioned, interrupting Sebastian.

Zeno was very thankful to Ken at that moment, he’d saved him the long explanation he would have given to Sebastian.

"I’m right here," Nicholas replied behind Zeno.

Zeno was surprised to hear him speak; he hadn’t heard him come up behind him.

"Hey," Zeno smiled at Nicholas.

"Hey, babe," Nicholas winked at Zeno.

Sebastian was boiling, he even caught a glimpse of Zeno’s ears turning red.

’Does it mean he liked it’ Sebastian thought angrily.

"I see little panda here did a good job at keeping you company," Nicholas teased.

Zeno chuckled and briefly stared at the stuffed animal, "Yes, it did."

’So he got you that lame toy?’ Sebastian scoffed.

"Here, thought you might be thirsty," Nicholas offered Zeno a bottle of water.

"Thank you," Zeno took it from him.

"Are you thirsty, Ken?" He asked as he opened the cap.

"Not yet," Ken shook his head.

Sebastian rolled his eyes as he watched Nicholas watch Zeno drink the water he got him.

He wanted to go home, where no one would look at Zeno except him. He was tired of all these raging emotions within him.

"Come on, Zeno, Dad said we’re going to eat over there," Ken pointed at a food truck.

There were a few round and short rectangular tables around the food truck area and people were occupying most of the chairs.

The table was large enough to contain six people.

The whole place looked so bubbly.

"We’re getting BBQ and ice cream!" Ken was so energetic, which was the opposite of Zeno’s mood,m; he just wanted to go home...his home, the one he was kidnapped from.

Everything was catching up on him.

However, he pushed his problems away and nodded at the boy.

"Let’s go," He said.

Nicholas moved when he saw Zeno was about to take Ken toward the food, but Sebastian was faster than him.

Sebastian swiftly moved and held Ken’s other hand, walking away with Zeno who was oblivious to what just happened.

Nicholas didn’t think much of it, he just thought that Sebastian didn’t want him holding Ken; he knew he was possessive of his son.

But as he walked behind them, he realized he looked like the bodyguard to a couple who had brought their child out to play in the park.

He looked from Sebastian to Zeno and shook his head, mocking himself for even thinking something like that.

Sebastian was his friend, and he knew he’d never in his life think of lying down with a guy. Firstly, he hated and despised the idea of that. Secondly, his family. Thirdly, his reputation in public, especially in the underworld.

Sebastian would rather shoot himself in the foot than let those listed things tarnish his reputation.

Nicholas thought that even if Sebastian wanted to get down with a guy, say he miraculously turned gay or bi; it would never be with his employee; he knew his friend to be so strict and disciplined, and he was never one to mix business with pleasure.

They reached a round table and Zeno drew out a chair for Ken and then carried him to sit.

He was about to draw out his own but Nicholas beat him to it.

"I got you," Nicholas teasingly held Zeno’s waist and made him sit down.

"Thank you," Zeno chuckled; he knew Nicholas was a tease and he wasn’t about stopping him; he was starting to find his flirts amusing and also getting comfortable with it, so why stop him if he made him smile every once in a while?

Sebastian lowered himself beside his son, gritting his teeth and looking away from Zeno and Nicholas.

"I’ll be right back with the BBQ and ice cream," Nicholas patted Ken’s head before walking to the food truck.

Zeno thought he was going to be in an awkward silence with Sebastian until Nicholas returned. However, Ken suddenly bounced in excitement and pointed at someone in the crowd.

"Camilla!" Ken called.

Sebastian and Zeno instinctively turned their head in the direction Ken was pointing, they’d have missed the person Ken was calling to if they hadn’t seen two guys waving back at Ken and decided to look down between them, and that’s when they saw a little girl in a bright pink gown and two pigtails, about Ken’s age waving a little too excitedly at Ken.

"Come meet my Daddy, Camilla!" Ken waved his friend over.

They watched as the two tall guys led Camilla toward their table.

"Hi, Kenneth, are these your papas? You have two papas like me too?" Camilla asked pointing from Zeno to Sebastian.

"Oh, I’m sorry, Mr. Orion, I’m Dave, and this is my husband, August. Our daughter is just a little more verbal than usual," Dave introduced.

Zeno was anxiously tapping his foot beneath the table, why was he suddenly in this situation?

What was Camilla asking? It was impossible.

Sebastian was about to respond when Ken decided it was the best time for him to speak too.

"But Daddy, Dave, and August care so much for Camilla, just like you and Zeno care for me. Does it mean Zeno can become my second Daddy?" Ken asked innocently.

 

Chapter 74

Zeno forgot how to breathe for a long time, and it seemed as if Sebastian was left speechless too.

He felt Sebastian’s eyes watching him carefully as if he was waiting for him to answer Ken’s question.

August suddenly laughed, "That’s something for them to decide, Kenneth; it’s adult talk, not meant for kids," He patted Ken’s head.

Zeno sighed in relief when he saw Ken nodding and relaxing in his chair.

"Don’t worry, Kenneth, you’ll have two dads just like me, and we’ll be like siblings," Camilla hugged Ken’s arm, smiling cutely at him.

’These kids were surely out for me,’ Zeno gritted his teeth.

Sebastian remained quiet, not taking his eyes off Zeno for once. He was making it harder for Zeno to act normal.

"It’s alright, you guys will come through, we also took time before deciding to get married," Dave smiled as he informed.

"Who’s marrying who?" Nicholas returned with the BBQ and ice cream for Ken.

"Ice cream!" Ken excitedly stretched his hand to Nicholas and took the ice cream from him.

"No one, just Ken meeting his classmate," Zeno replied, smiling at Nicholas, who was placing the BBQ on the table.

"Oh, then they can join us so Ken doesn’t feel bored with us adults, right, Sebastian?" Nicholas asked.

Sebastian finally looked away from Zeno and nodded slowly, "Sure." He replied.

Dave smiled and drew out a chair for August, then for Camilla, and then he went ahead to sit beside his husband.

"Want some ice cream?" Ken asked Camilla, already giving his ice cream to her.

"Yes," Camilla took the ice cream from Ken, and before anyone could say anything, she was already licking it.

August chuckled, "Kids...that’s how they are." He looked at Dave and placed a hand on his lap, smiling.

"Hi, I’m Nicholas, and I must say that you guys look so beautiful together," Nicholas commented with a friendly smile.

"Thanks, Nicholas, it’s all about marrying the right person," Dave responded, making August’s ears turn red.

Zeno wouldn’t have minded the discussion if Sebastian wasn’t there, but he was, and he found it very difficult to keep calm as they talked about same-sex marriage. He knew Sebastian was against it, and they had already misinterpreted them as a couple.

The kids were busy in their own world, talking about what nobody knew about and Zeno so wished he could join in that discussion at that moment.

"Well, I’m hoping the right person sees me as his right person, too," Nicholas turned his face to Zeno, smirking at him.

’Can the ground just open already and take me out of here?’ Zeno internally pleaded.

"I’ll go get the water," Zeno suddenly announced and gently from the chair.

"Can I get another ice cream?" Ken asked when he saw Zeno leaving the table.

"Sure," Zeno nodded, glad he had another thing to keep him away longer.

Sebastian slowly looked away from Zeno when he heard August clear his throat.

"Honey, I think we must have misunderstood, no wonder poor guy looked so uncomfortable," August giggled softly.

"Yeah, I see it now," Dave smiled.

Nicholas was lost about what they were talking about, so he asked, "Did I miss something?"

Dave shook his head, "Not really; we had just thought that Zeno and Mr. Orion were an item, but seeing the way you looked at him, Man, I knew you were down, rolling and all," Dave joked.

Nicholas paused for a second, turned to Sebastian, then laughed.

He laughed so hard and even August giggled beside him.

He shook his head. "No, that’s totally wrong. My friend over here is straighter than a measure rule. Zeno’s his bodyguard, we’re just out to take the kid out," Nicholas explained.

Sebastian had his fists balled on his lap, he felt angry.

He was angry and jealous because Nicholas could freely stake his claim publicly on Zeno while he was the one fuming in silent jealousy.

"But, not gonna lie, honey, for a second, I felt there was chemistry between Mr. Orion and Zeno," August whispered to Dave, but Sebastian and Nicholas still heard him. However, they pretended like they didn’t hear anything.

Sebastian strangely felt a little satisfaction hearing what August whispered.

That meant that Zeno was more attracted to him and whoever looked at them would know that they belonged together.

His mood was lifted a little because he knew he was still going to face the torture when Zeno returned to the table.

Soon, Zeno returned, and they dug into the BBQ, drinking and chatting.

The chatting was mainly done between Nicholas and the couple while Sebastian and Zeno were the spectators.

Zeno dared not say a word, he just wanted to disappear from that place and appear in his room, alone and in the comfort of his bed.

After eating, they accompanied the children to play more, with Sebastian being the odd one out without a partner.

He walked behind them, watching as Nicholas tried his best to hold Zeno’s hand, but Zeno always found a way to keep his hands busy. At last, Nicholas held his hand, and Sebastian never realized that jealousy would make him immature.

"Zeno," He suddenly called from behind.

Zeno instinctively removed his hand from Nicholas’ and turned to face Sebastian.

Nicholas paused and turned to look at Sebastian, too, curious to know how why he was suddenly calling Zeno.

Sebastian walked up to Zeno, ignoring Nicholas beside him.

"We’re leaving," Sebastian announced.

Zeno didn’t even want to ask why; he wanted to leave, too.

"Is something urgent? I mean, Ken’s still having his best time with his girlfriend," Nicholas pointed at Ken and Camilla running around in the distance, Dave and August watching over them.

"I’ll have to bother you, dear friend. Do me the favor of taking my child home, I need to attend to something urgent," Sebastian lifted the corner of his lips in an attempt to smile at Nicholas.

"Okay, okay, okay, stop creeping us out with your smile, I’ll do it," He frowned at Sebastian.

Zeno remained silent, wondering what could have come up that caused them to leave. He had thought they were going back home, but it seemed like he still had more adventures to face.

"Ken, come over here," Sebastian called to his son.

Like the wind, Ken and Camilla ran to them, panting like playful puppies.

"Yes, Daddy?" Ken replied, looking up at Sebastian.

"Nicholas will take you home, I need to go do something with Zeno, okay?" Sebastian spoke softly, knowing Ken wouldn’t like the idea.

"Do you have to go with Zeno" Ken pouted.

Nicholas wanted to ask the same question, but he refrained; even if he ended up dating Zeno, he had to understand that Zeno was Sebastian’s employee and there would be times when it wouldn’t be convenient for him to spend time with him as he pleased.

So, that’s why he wasn’t saying anything, he wasn’t going to meddle in Zeno’s professional life.

"Yes, Ken, I have to," Sebastian gave Zeno a short glance.

"Dad, Ken’s leaving already?" Camilla said to Dave as he approached them.

"Oh, that’s alright, baby, you’ll get to see him in school," Dave consoled.

August gently took Camilla’s hand, drawing her to himself.

"It was nice seeing you both, but I have a matter to deal with, and I need to leave with my...bodyguard," Sebastian cleared his throat.

Zeno frowned; why was he hesitant to call him his bodyguard?

"We understand, Mr. Orion, it was a pleasure meeting you," Dave nodded at him.

"Drive him safely, Nicholas," Sebastian patted Ken’s head then turned to Zeno, "Let’s go."

He immediately removed his eyes and gritted his teeth when he saw Nicholas stepping forward to Zeno. He already knew what was going to happen.

"See you later," Nicholas said after kissing Zeno’s cheek.

Zeno nodded,m.

"See you soon, Buddy," Zeno touched Ken’s face before he stepped away from them.

"Bye, Zeno," Ken said sadly.

At that point, Sebastian was no longer surprised that his son didn’t rate him, he rather missed someone else instead of his own father.

Sebastian turned away and fixed his hand in his pocket, resisting the urge to drag Zeno with him.

Zeno started to follow Sebastian behind, feeling something off as they walked.

He followed Sebastian until they reached the car.

He saw Sebastian get in the car and start the car without waiting for him.

He hastened up and got in the car, staring at Sebastian’s face as he shut the door.

Sebastian saw that Zeno had entered the car and didn’t even wait for Zeno to fix his seat belt before he drove off the car.

Zeno was quiet, the tension in the car was palpable, making Zeno tense and curious.

Sebastian didn’t say anything to Zeno as he drove far away from the park.

They were soon heading toward an unknown location, and Zeno couldn’t sit still any more; he looked out the window and realized that they had stopped seeing houses and were driving past more trees, and the road looked lonely, too.

"Sebastian...Where are we going?" Zeno asked.

Sebastian suddenly slowed down and parked beside the lonely road, under a tree.

He slowly turned to Zeno and asked in a low voice. "So, you know my name now?" He stared hard at Zeno’s face.

Zeno first removed his seat belt and turned to Sebastian. "I’m allowed to call you by your name when we’re alone," Zeno reminded.

Sebastian scoffed, his fingers tightening around the steering, "When we’re alone. That’s the only time you speak to me, Zeno, that’s the only time you fucking look at me."

Sebastian frowned.

Zeno wanted to say something but paused, he tilted his head to the side and stared hard at Sebastian.

"You’re jealous," Zeno stated; this time, he was sure about what he was saying.

Sebastian was feeling jealous because of what happened at the Park with Nicholas, that’s why he had asked them to leave, just so he could get him alone.

Zeno smirked and leaned over to Sebastian’s seat. He placed one hand on the space between Sebastian’s legs while the other one went around Sebastian’s neck.

"You’re really jealous," Zeno repeated in a seductive voice.

Sebastian removed his hands from the steering and grabbed Zeno’s shirt, drawing his face very close to his; his eyes darkened as he looked into Zeno’s eyes, "What if I was Jealous, Zeno? What if I was?" He whispered darkly.

Zeno’s eyes were lost in Sebastian’s lips, his whole body was charged and ready to explode with any little touch from Sebastian.

"If you were...it would change everything between us, Seb," Zeno replied softly.

Sebastian moved his lips to Zeno’s, but before they touched together, he paused and ordered in a husky whisper. "Get behind the car, Zeno,"

 

Chapter 75

Sebastian had moved away from Zeno and went behind the car, waiting for Zeno.

Zeno slowly got out of the car and walked to the back seat, opened it, and got in, closing the door.

He turned to look at Sebastian and realized he was watching him. He knew what was about to happen, and he was getting too excited about it.

"I’m going to repeat a question, baby girl," Sebastian moved closer to Zeno and picked up his hand, placing it on his chest, "Unbutton them, Zeno," He ordered.

Zeno bit his lips and moved closer to Sebastian; he looked at their position and frowned; he wasn’t satisfied with it; he pressed Sebastian’s back against the seat and then proceeded to lift himself and crossed one of his legs over Sebastian’s thighs, kneeling his knees beside him.

Sebastian watched Zeno with interest, his body getting warmer with Zeno’s actions.

Zeno smirked down at Sebastian as he lowered his face to his, his hands smartly unbuttoning Sebastian’s shirt.

"You said you have a question for me...I have one for you too, babe," Zeno kissed Sebastian’s neck.

Sebastian instinctively moved his hands to Zeno’s waist; he almost forgot what he wanted to ask with the way Zeno’s lips were moving against his neck.

"Nicholas...fuck, Zeno listen to me," Sebastian held Zeno’s face and moved it away from his neck. He wanted him to pay attention and stop distracting him.

"Sorry," Zeno apologized with an unapologetic face.

"You’re being naughty, Zeno, and you’ll be punished," Sebastian spanked his ass, taking in a sharp breath when he saw the aroused look on Zeno’s face.

"Mmm...punish me, Papi," Zeno whispered in Sebastian’s ear.

He sprawled his hands over Sebastian’s chest and abs, his shirts were already pulled down on his arms.

"Fucking naughty," Sebastian grunted and pulled Zeno’s face to his, claiming his lips in a hot, fiery kiss.

He kissed Zeno urgently, sneaking his fingers through his hair and pushing Zeno’s face down to his.

Sebastian suddenly grabbed Zeno’s waist and pushed him down on the seat, then proceeded to kneel between his legs.

"I’ll ask one more time, Zeno," Sebastian’s eyes were darkening as slowly unbuckled his belt and drew it out of his waist.

He held his belt in his hand as he leaned down to Zeno, placing his forehead on his, "Between Nicholas and I, who’s hotter?" He whispered against Zeno’s lips, slowly biting Zeno’s bottom lip between his teeth.

"Was that why you swerved the car? You’re jealous, Sebastian...and I think you-"

"Answer my question, Zeno," He placed his hand around Zeno’s neck, slightly choking him.

Zeno refused to cough or show that he was affected by Sebastian’s hold, he maintained eye contact with him as he raised his hands to his shoulders, "You, Sebastian. Nicholas doesn’t stand a chance with you, you’re..." Zeno circled Sebastian’s nipple, smiling sexily when he saw Sebastian grit his teeth, "Irresistible," He finished and took his hand down to Sebastian’s pants but before he could touch him, Sebastian grabbed his hands and placed it above his head, then slammed his lips to him.

Zeno shut his eyes and kissed him back; he was the loser in this game; he had fallen for his ruthless boss, and even when he knew that his feelings would never be reciprocated, he still found himself falling harder and wishing that his feelings would be returned.

Building castles in the air? Maybe, but as stupid as it might sound, Zeno was ready to keep building that castle, as long it let him be close to Sebastian.

"You find me irresistible? Then why do you let him touch you, Zeno? You’re mine, don’t forget that," Sebastian said in a husky voice as he held Zeno’s wrists in his hands.

Zeno bit his lips, panting softly, "You’re jealousy turns me on, Seb. You’re so hot when you’re jealous," Zeno stared into Sebastian’s darkened grey eyes, "Fuck me already," He said in a wanton voice.

Sebastian closed his eyes for a few seconds then he slowly opened it, "So, you purposely get me jealous because it turns you on?"

Zeno shook his head, "Not purposely..." He wanted to free his wrists but Sebastian tightened his hand on him.

"No...not my wrists, please..." Zeno suddenly gasped as he felt Sebastian’s belt tightening around his wrist.

He stared at Sebastian’s sexy chest and furrowed his brows; he needed to be able to get his hands on those toned muscles, but it looked like Sebastian had other plans.

"That’s your punishment, Zeno, for making me jealous. Do you know how hard it was for me to remain calm and watch someone else touch what’s mine?" He questioned darkly.

Zeno bit his lips and shook his head, "Then, what are you waiting for, if I’m yours, prove it," Zeno dared in a lewd manner.

Sebastian smiled sexily at him, he leaned down as if he was going to kiss Zeno but stopped, "You’re mine, Zeno," He declared before kissing him.

Zeno closed his eyes and allowed Sebastian to claim his lips; they kissed so passionately that Zeno didn’t even realize how his pants came off; the next thing he knew was that Sebastian was tying his shirt around his eyes.

"Seb-"

"Shh...you don’t need to see, Baby girl, just feel," Sebastian replied and placed a soft kiss on Zeno’s lips.

"But, I need - Ahh..." Zeno moaned and shut his mouth immediately when Sebastian pushed the tip of his cock into his honey hole.

"No talking...just feeling," Sebastian whispered.

He was torturing himself and Zeno by not pushing his entire length in, he wanted to go slow and let Zeno feel him and feel how needy he was for him, how hard he made him burn, but from the way, Zeno’s muscles were snatching his cock in, he didn’t think he could keep up the slow and torturous teasing.

He put half of his length in, then pulled completely out, watching Zeno’s sexy frustration.

Zeno was gasping below Sebastian; he needed to feel Sebastian inside him, with his eyes closed and hands tied; it was as if all his other senses were heightened; he felt his body humming with vibrant lust and desire, and Sebastian’s torture was taking it to another level.

"Please...Sebastian..." He pleaded, twisting his hands.

Sebastian was hypnotized by Zeno’s beauty; he slowly slid the tip of his cock back into his tight ass and lowered his face to Zeno’s, "Please, what, baby?" He whispered in a strained voice.

Zeno bit his lips, moving his hip to get Sebastian’s cock in him. "Fuck me already - Ohh!" Zeno’s lips formed a perfect ’O’ as Sebastian slammed his whole length into him.

Without pausing, Sebastian fucked Zeno just as he’d asked.

He thrust powerfully in and out of Zeno, his cock disappearing completely inside Zeno’s honey hole each time he thrust in.

They moaned, groaned, and grunted, and anyone who would have passed that area would surely know that something was going on inside that car.

The car bounced in resonance with their movement, their passionate sounds rising higher with each thrust.

"Ahh...Sebastian...asshh...I want to hold you, please.." Zeno was begging, twisting his hands and trying to see if he could free them.

Sebastian groaned loudly, his heart shuddering as a strong wave of emotions overtook him. "You’re driving me crazy, fucking crazy," He kissed Zeno’s lips, thrusting harder and faster.

"I’m losing my mind over you, Zeno...it’s fucking driving me crazy," Sebastian moaned and kissed Zeno.

Zeno was almost losing his breath, he’d never felt so deprived of something his whole life, he yearned to hold Sebastian but his tied wrist wouldn’t let him, his punishment made it more exciting than it usually was, he could only raise his face and kiss Sebastian back, huffing deeply each time his lips left Sebastian’s.

"Oh God...I’m...ugh..." Sebastian’s hips buckled against Zeno’s as his thrust got faster and more urgent.

Zeno bit his lips, muffling his loud moans, but Sebastian placed his thumb on Zeno’s lips and dragged it out from between his lips, "Don’t suppress them, baby girl, let me hear you scream my name," He ordered breathlessly.

Zeno didn’t hold back; he moaned as Sebastian’s cock thrust hard into his anus, causing his muscles and abdominal walls to tighten, and his dick twitched uncontrollably, perking up and down in preparation for a release.

"Cum for me, Sweetheart," Sebastian encouraged in a sexy voice as he put his hand between them and pumped Zeno’s cock in resonance to his quick thrusts.

"Ohh...fuck, Seb..." Zeno’s whole body vibrated and twitched from the double stimulation, he arched his back off the seat and moaned at the top of his lungs as he felt his cum shoot out of his cock, it kept twitching, and twitching and soon, he felt Sebastian’s cock grow very big and harder followed by the strong release of cum load inside Zeno’s walls.

"You’re so sweet, Zeno..." Sebastian grunted and claimed Zeno’s lips in a slow, sweet, kiss.

Without withdrawing his hips, he slowly pushed the cloth off Zeno’s eyes, watching as he blinked twice before he focused on his face.

Zeno was still breathing heavily and when Sebastian removed the shirt from his eyes, his heart rate increased as he stared at Sebastian’s face.

Damn, he was a mess.

"Untie my hands..." Zeno requested softly.

Sebastian caressed the side of Zeno’s face before he traced his hand above Zeno’s arm and released his belt from his wrist.

The moment Zeno’s wrists were freed, he intertwined his fingers with Sebastian’s and brought it down to his lips, placing a soft, chaste kiss on it.

Sebastian watched him with hooded eyes; he didn’t say a word; he just let Zeno do whatever he wanted.

Zeno traced Sebastian’s face with his fingers: his neck, his back, his chest, nipples, abs, and back to his neck; he drew Sebastian’s face down to his and whispered.

"You drive me fucking crazy, too, Sebastian, I..." he paused and stared deeply into his eyes.

A strong urge to say the ’L’ word to Sebastian possessed his whole body, but he was scared; he was scared of losing him completely if he said it.

Sebastian had made it clear that he didn’t want anything with him, it was just lust and sex.

He was also scared of meddling between Sebastian and Georgia; if he was ever going to say it, he’d need to make sure that Sebastian was completely his; he, too, didn’t like to share.

"You what, Zeno?" Sebastian questioned expectantly, his pulse racing as he waited for Zeno to say what he wanted to say.

Zeno smiled and shook his head then he gently pushed Sebastian’s head lower and kissed him.

They kissed slowly and steadily, the atmosphere charging again, but this time, it seemed like they were going slow.

"You can fuck me again, Seb, I’m ready," Zeno whispered against his lips.

He could feel Sebastian’s cock getting harder and harder inside him, and he was ready to go again.

Sebastian moved his face to the side of Zeno’s face and slowly started thrusting his hips into his.

"This isn’t fucking, Zeno, this is making love..." Sebastian sucked his earlobe into his mouth.

 

Chapter 76

After their slow, intense love-making, they were currently sitting in front of the car with Zeno unable to take his eyes off Sebastian, who was fixing his seat belt.

Sebastian felt Zeno’s gaze and turned his face to him; he looked down at Zeno’s body and frowned, seeing that his seat belt was not fixed yet.

He leaned toward Zeno and reached his hand beside him, easily pulling the seat belt across Zeno’s upper body and fixing it in place beside the chair.

Zeno didn’t even try moving away; he was still looking for a way to get closer to Sebastian; he wished they never had to return to the mansion, to reality.

Sebastian raised his face and looked at Zeno; he put a finger under his chin and leaned closer, "You know, Zeno, if you don’t quit giving me that eye, we’ll end up in the backseats again," He whispered seductively.

Zeno blinked, tilting his head to the side, "I don’t mind..." He caressed Sebastian’s neck.

Sebastian smirked, "You’re getting too naughty for me to handle, Zeno," He placed his thumb on Zeno’s lips and kissed it.

He was about to move back to his seat but Zeno held his arm and leaned in for a real kiss, which Sebastian reciprocated.

"Happy?" He asked Zeno.

Zeno nodded and returned to his seat. However, he didn’t leave Sebastian’s arm; he only traced his hand down to Sebastian’s and intertwined their fingers, leaving their intertwined hands on Sebastian’s lap.

Sebastian’s heart was pounding, he felt the switch in Zeno, but he didn’t comment on it; he didn’t want to because he, too, was enjoying the attention from his bodyguard.

It was like a therapy that eased his day-long jealousy.

At least, he basked in the knowledge that it was his hand Zeno was holding and not Nicholas’.

He raised Zeno’s hand and placed a brief kiss on it before returning it to his lap and starting the car.

None of them made to move their hands away from each other, they stayed that way throughout the ride, and Sebastian didn’t have a problem driving with just one hand.

The ride was quiet, but it was a comfortable silence. It seemed like they had paused all thoughts in their brain and were only basking in the moment, not wanting their intrusive thoughts to ruin their moment like they always did.

Sebastian was slowly rubbing the insides of Zeno’s palm with his thumb, a silent assurance that even though he had his eyes on the road and wasn’t speaking to him, he was still aware that he was beside him.

After a while, they arrived home, and even as they drove into the compound, they still couldn’t let go of each other’s hands.

The car parked in the open garage, and Zeno kept his eyes locked on his feet, readying himself to go back to how things used to be between them.

It was already evening, and the sun was setting, casting an orange hue on the car’s glass.

Sebastian was watching Zeno, he felt Like something was bothering Zeno, and he was getting edgy every time he wondered what it could be.

Was he really considering dating Nicholas? Or was it sounding else?

At that moment, Sebastian didn’t feel like letting things remain how they were between them, he was sensing that Nicholas would do anything to have Zeno, and from how he’s been feeling about Zeno, he knew Zeno would be a good choice for anyone to have around as a partner.

He could not imagine a time where he couldn’t touch Zeno when he wanted to, where he couldn’t kiss him when he wanted to, and when he couldn’t make love to him when he wanted to, maybe, just maybe, it was time they took a little step forward, he wasn’t ready to call whatever it was between them quits, it was just getting started, and he was too selfish to let go, even though he knew he couldn’t give Zeno what he wanted, still, he wasn’t about to let him go.

Zeno was about to remove his hand from Sebastian’s, but Sebastian held it tightly.

"Hey," He called softly to Zeno.

Zeno sighed, "Hey," he replied, not looking at Sebastian.

"Look at me," He rubbed his thumb over Zeno’s hand.

Zeno obeyed.

He slowly turned and looked at Sebastian’s face, "Yes...you have something to tell me?" He questioned.

Sebastian nodded, "You look bothered. Do you want to talk about it?"

Zeno shook his head, "I’m not, I’m fine, I’m just a little tired," He replied.

Sebastian sighed, he was thinking of the best way to say what he wanted to say.

"I was thinking-"

Knock knock...

A knock suddenly sounded on Zeno’s window, causing him to quickly remove his hand from Sebastian’s; he was thankful for the tinted glasses, too; the person outside wouldn’t be able to see what was happening inside.

He looked to the window and saw Nicholas waving at them.

Sebastian sighed in frustration; this was his recurring problem. Nicholas was becoming a pain in the ass, and he had to think of a way to make him go away before he became a permanent pain.

He was about to hold Zeno back from opening the door when Nicholas pulled the door open.

"Hi, Zeno," Nicholas smiled brightly at Zeno and stepped aside to make room for him to come out of the car.

"Hey," Zeno greeted and gently left the car. He could feel Sebastian’s gaze on his back, but he didn’t look back.

"Didn’t know you’d still be around," Zeno said as he shut the door.

Nicholas nodded, "Well, I couldn’t leave the boy alone..." He cleared his throat.

"He has Julia and Nicole, Nicholas; you didn’t have to stay back," Sebastian spoke as he walked around the car to stand beside Zeno.

"Well...that’s true, I was also waiting to see Zeno before I left," Nicholas confessed, looking at Zeno with interest.

’He’s fucking mine!’ Sebastian wished he could say that out loud; instead, he just said, "I see..." and nodded at Nicholas.

Zeno cleared his throat, feeling the tension building up between the friends; he thought he had escaped this in the afternoon.

"That was thoughtful of you, Nick. Do you have something to say to me?" He asked, scratching the side of his neck.

"How was your trip with your boss? Did you guys manage to sort the urgent matter?" Nicholas questioned with concern.

Zeno blinked slowly as his mind immediately went back to how they had settled the urgent matter behind Sebastian’s car. His cheeks were starting to get hot, and he hoped it wasn’t red already because it would definitely give something away.

"Trust me, Nicholas, we did sort it out to the ’core.’ You don’t have to worry," Sebastian calmly replied, using his side eye to see Zeno trying to hide his embarrassment by acting normal.

’Cute,’ He thought quietly as he kept staring at Zeno.

Nicholas nodded, "Then you must be very tired, Zeno. I wouldn’t take much of your time, then. I know how hard my friend works, so you must really need your rest," Nicholas moved forward to Zeno and placed a hand on his waist.

Sebastian immediately saw that and clenched his jaw, ’Not again,’ he complained in his head.

He watched as Nicholas held Zeno’s hand and led him toward the stairs, he followed behind.

"I’ll let you go up and rest, but please, do find time to check the gift I left in your room; goodnight, Zeno," This time, Nicholas leaned forward and kissed Zeno’s lips.

Zeno was shocked. It was brief, but it was still on the lips.

Nicholas smiled at Zeno’s shocked face before waving and leaving the compound; he had parked his car outside to make it easier for him to leave.

Sebastian didn’t bother waving back at Nicholas when he waved at him; he was angry, bitter, and jealous.

He stood behind Zeno for a few seconds, watching him stare at the gate with lost eyes.

He stepped forward to him, "You want to go home with him?" He whispered beside Zeno’s ear.

Zeno immediately removed his face from the gate and turned to Sebastian, "No, I’m home already." He replied in a serious tone and walked up the stairs.

Sebastian felt his heart shuddering when he heard Zeno call his home home too.

He hurried up the stairs and entered the house, too; he wanted to finish what Nicholas had interrupted him from saying.

Zeno had already gone up to his room when Sebastian went into the house.

He climbed the stairs without waiting.

He reached Zeno’s door and slowly pushed it open, walking in and shutting the door.

He saw Zeno standing beside his bed and looking at a white, huge gift box that was lying on his bed.

It was wrapped with a red ribbon, and a red envelope was neatly slipped between the ribbon.

Sebastian slowly walked up behind Zeno and wrapped his arm around his waist.

"Nicholas?" He asked.

"Yeah..." Zeno replied.

Sebastian was quiet.

"Don’t want to open it?" He asked behind Zeno.

He didn’t like it.

He didn’t like it one bit.

Thinking about it, he’d never given Zeno any gift, not even the smallest ones.

Nicholas was the first to give Zeno a gift; does it mean he’s lost another point with Zeno?

Zeno sighed, "I will...not just now..." his voice was quiet.

He had an idea what the gift could be, and with Sebastian here, he didn’t want him to see it.

Since he’d warned him about being lovey-dovey with someone, plus he didn’t want him seeing the kind of gift it was.

Sebastian kissed the side of Zeno’s neck and released him. "Let’s see," He whispered.

 

 

Chapter 77

Sebastian walked over to the bed and tapped the top of the box. "It looks fancy..." He murmured.

Zeno stood still, watching him.

He slid out the envelope and felt the weight in his hands.

His eyes scanned it, and then he looked up at Zeno. "You’re not going to open it?" He asked again, his voice low and even.

Zeno felt a sense of unease. He didn’t want Sebastian to open the box or the envelope, but at the same time, he couldn’t stop him.

He saw Sebastian’s unreadable expression as he stared at the envelope, and as his gaze met Sebastian’s, he felt a shiver run down his spine.

"You were right, Zeno..." Sebastian gently lowered himself on the bed and patted the space beside him, beckoning Zeno to sit beside him.

Zeno sighed, slowly walked over, and sat beside Sebastian; seems like it was Sebastian who’d be doing the unboxing.

Sebastian shifted toward Zeno and covered the space between them, their thighs touching.

"You were right..." Sebastian repeated.

Zeno turned to him, his eyes going down to Sebastian’s hand that was busy opening the envelope.

"Right about what?" Zeno questioned.

"I’m jealous," Sebastian confessed, focusing on the envelope in his hand.

His nerves were all over the place; the vulnerability he felt with what he just said was second to none.

Zeno paused, his heart hammering in his chest.

Was this going in the direction he thought it was?

He softly cleared his throat and asked, "Jealous? About what?"

Sebastian shook his head, "I’m reading this," He waved the envelope in the air.

"You don’t have to, I’ll-"

Sebastian moved his hand away and held, Zeno’s hand that he had wanted to use and snatched the envelope from him.

He moved his face closer to him and whispered, "I’ll read it, Zeno..."

He released his hand and proceeded to open the envelope.

Zeno sat still, eyeing the envelope as if he could make it disappear with his look.

Sebastian took out the white card inside the envelope and held it up to his face.

Zeno didn’t bother peeking into it; Sebastian was going to read it out, after all.

He only wished his heart would stop beating as if he’d been caught at the point of theft. He saw Sebastian frown before he started.

"Hi, Zeno. I’m going to keep it simple. I like you, no...I love you..." Sebastian paused and turned to Zeno.

Zeno’s pulse went wild; why did Sebastian look at him when he read that part? He knew Sebastian was just reading what was written on the card, yet he couldn’t stop his brain from imagining how it’d feel to hear those words from him.

He cleared his throat and looked at Sebastian, "Is that all?" His voice was very low and shaky.

Sebastian shook his head, he had moved his head on instinct as he said those words, and for some reason, it felt wrong reading to Zeno from a card that was sent by someone else.

He sighed and continued reading. "I know I said I’d give us some time but I’m sorry I didn’t keep to my promise. I can’t hold my feelings for you anymore, and I want nothing more than to proudly call you mine. I promise to treat you right and show you the right kind of love you deserve. I hope the gift in the box reminds you of what we can have between us. I love you. Nicholas."

Sebastian finished reading and went quiet.

Zeno too, was quiet.

He wasn’t expecting silence from Sebastian, he’d thought he’d be angry, maybe even tear up the card and remind him how he was in a contract with him and should not be accepting gifts from other people. But none of that.

Sebastian quietly folded the card and put it back into black into the envelope.

He didn’t know what to say or how to act. No, he did know what to say, just that he didn’t know how to voice it.

He placed the card beside the bed and stood. "It’s a nice letter," His voice was quiet.

Zeno stood too, he went to hold Sebastian’s hand but he dodged him and put his hand on top of the gift box.

"Let’s see what’s inside," Sebastian slowly lifted the lid away and looked inside.

Zeno stepped forward and looked inside too, and when he saw the large frame that was turned backward, he immediately knew what it was.

He shut his eyes as Sebastian carried out the large frame from the gift box, stepping back a little from him.

He watched Sebastian slowly turn the frame around and stare at the painting.

It was the painting he had seen in the gallery with Nicholas; why did Nicholas buy it, he knew it cost a fortune.

He couldn’t accept such a gift; he’d feel obligated to reciprocate Nicholas’ feelings even if he didn’t want to; what else could he possibly do after someone had spent so much for him just to prove that they loved him?

Guilt.

Guilt was what he felt because he knew there was no way he would reciprocate Nicholas’ feelings, he already knew where his feelings lay.

Sebastian was very shocked by what he saw, he stared at the painting hard and long...he was trying hard to understand it, but all he could understand was that Zeno and Nicholas already had something going on between them, if not, why would Nicholas send Zeno such an erotic painting.

Pain.

He felt the sharp pain piercing his chest, he’d never felt like that before, but he knew it was the thought of Zeno being together with Nicholas that caused it.

What was the use of what he’d wanted to say to Zeno?

There was no need.

It seemed like he had already taken a side.

And it was about time he stopped acting like an ass toward Zeno. If he wanted to date someone, he should let him go, what’s the use of keeping him beside him?

Zeno saw that Sebastian hadn’t said anything, he was just busy staring at the painting.

He sighed softly and moved toward Sebastian, placing his hand on his back.

"The painting-"

"I see it, Zeno. It’s beautiful..." He gently placed it down on the bed and turned to Zeno.

"I see that Nicholas is really into you, and I think I understand why," He smiled at Zeno.

Zeno’s heart skipped a beat, "You understand? What do you understand?" He asked cautiously.

Sebastian looked back at the painting, "Never mind, you should keep that safe...can I ask you something?" He questioned.

Zeno nodded, "Yes,"

"Is that what you want?" Sebastian pointed at the painting behind him.

Zeno went quiet, he felt like that was a tricky question coming from Sebastian.

However, he couldn’t deny that that was what he wanted.

"I know that in as much as you and I have this contract between us, you don’t support the relationship between two guys, however, this painting isn’t just about gay couples...it’s about the connection the people in the painting share...that’s what I want Sebastian...I don’t care what gender I find it in, all I want is someone who looks upon me the way they do to each other. So, yes, that’s what I want," Zeno replied, masking his anxiety.

He was scared that Sebastian wouldn’t like his reply and ended up deciding to terminate their contract so that he could be free to go look for someone to give him the love he wanted.

Maybe a month ago or even a week ago, Zeno would have been eager to hear about the termination of the contract. But, now, you can call him stupid because he didn’t want the damn contract to end, he wasn’t ready to leave Sebastian’s side yet, and it was killing him that he didn’t know how to say it.

Sebastian nodded, "Mm." Was his only reply before he started walking toward the door.

"Sebastian," Zeno called.

He paused at the foot of the bed, not turning.

Zeno walked over to him and stood in front of him.

"Nicholas...I feel nothing for"

"It’s none of my business, Zeno. It’s not," He muttered the last part.

"I know, I just wanted to let you know, still," Zeno replied, stepping closer to him.

He stood directly in front of Sebastian, leaving hardly any space between them, "You...you said had something to tell me?" Zeno whispered.

Sebastian shook his head, "No, I just wanted to know who the hooded woman was, is it something I should know?" He shifted the conversation away from them.

Zeno suddenly remembered meeting with Georgia, stepping back as the pain and jealousy overtook him again.

He’d just been reminded that the man he was trying to seduce was a married man.

He recalled the letter Georgia had given him and panicked. Deeping his hands inside his pockets, he hoped he hadn’t lost it in the car when he and Sebastian were doing their business back there.

He sighed in relief when he felt the folded paper still in his pocket.

"I met someone...your wife..." He said in a small voice as he drew the paper out from his pocket.

Sebastian’s features instantly hardened. He wore a deep frown on his face as he stared at Zeno as if he was saying jargon.

He narrowed his eyes at Zeno and at the paper he’d just brought out from his pocket.

"What are you talking about, Zeno?" Sebastian questioned.

Zeno frowned, why was Sebastian trying to deny her?

"It was Georgia, Ken’s mother-"

"What the fuck! Did she do anything to you? Why did you ever think of standing with her?" Sebastian burst out.

Zeno frowned harder.

"Did she plant anything on you again?" He went to hold Zeno but Zeno moved back.

"No, she didn’t...she left you a message and a letter, though," Zeno didn’t mean for his voice to come out as upset, but it did.

Sebastian noticed it, "Hey, we can forget about whatever that bitch said and rather talk about what’s going on with you, are you okay?" He asked, seeing the controlled anger on Zeno’s face.

Zeno shook his head, "She said I should help her persuade you to take her back. She apologized for what she did in the past and said she was ready to start anew with you and Ken. She professed how much she loved her husband...and, she left you this letter," He stretched his hand toward Sebastian.

Sebastian had his fists balled; that was the last thing he needed at that moment. He was facing emotional roller coasters, and Georgia was the last person he would worry himself over.

He stared at Zeno and saw that he no longer held his gaze, he seemed as if he wanted to be away from him.

"Read it," Sebastian ordered.

Zeno frowned, "Huh?"

"Read the letter, Zeno, it’s only fair since I read yours," He reminded.

Zeno bit his lips, stared hard at the letter, and started to unfold it.

He only hoped he’d still have a heart after he was done reading whatever was written on that letter; he knew he was just about to hurt himself with the rate at which his heart was beating; jealousy had him in a chokehold.

 

 

Chapter 78

Zeno started.

"Hi, Darling, it’s me, your darling wife, Georgia Einstein. I’ve missed you, I’ve missed us, and I love you, I-"

Sebastian scoffed, interrupting Zeno.

"Carry on," He cleared his throat and went quiet.

Zeno sighed and continued.

"I want to apologize for the misunderstanding that happened years ago; please, let us get back to how we used to be; I know Ken must need his mummy now, and you, too, must need your wife, always here for you, reach out to me with the number below." Zeno stretched the letter to Sebastian.

"The number is below-"

"You think I should call her?" Sebastian sounded offended.

Zeno shrugged, "She’s your wife-"

Sebastian was in front of Zeno in a matter of seconds, his arm around his waist, "She’s not my wife, Zeno," He leaned his face down to Zeno’s and whispered.

Zeno didn’t move back, he locked eyes with Sebastian and repeated what he’d said to him when he tried to explain to him about Nicholas, "It’s none of my business, Sebastian, it’s really not," He shrugged.

Sebastian nodded, "So, you don’t mind if I take her back?" He questioned with narrowed eyes.

Zeno nodded, "I don’t mind if you decide to take her, or anyone else," He replied.

Sebastian put his hand behind Zeno’s neck and moved his face closer, "She’s not my wife. I can show you the divorce papers, and she’s a liar; nothing she said was true," He explained in a smooth voice.

Zeno was speechless; why was Sebastian holding him as if he wanted to kiss him, yet he didn’t?

"I’m not married to anyone, not committed to anyone...you know it. But I know you don’t care about whatever I say, you have your Nicholas to worry about. Goodnight, Zeno," He released him and walked out of the room.

Zeno’s heart shuddered, he was hurt.

He was hurting so much, so Sebastian still believed there was something between him and Nicholas.

He stared at the letter in his hands, thoughts ran through his mind as he wondered what really happened between these two people.

That night, Zeno struggled before he fell asleep.

He knew Nicholas would be waiting for a reply from him, but he wasn’t going to reply to him; it was the last thing he wanted to do.

***

In Ida’s room, he was busy getting ready to sleep when he heard a knock on his door, this time, he already knew who it was before he even opened the door, but he opened it nonetheless.

"What do you want, Cody?" He asked as he opened his door and saw Cody standing there in cute white pajamas.

"Nothing, just want to sleep with my friend," He replied innocently.

Ida scoffed, "Nice try, but I’m not interested in fucking you, Cody," Ida said and went to shut the door but Cody deliberately put his hand between the door, letting Ida jam his hand.

"Argh! Ouch! My fingers!" He cried out.

Ida panicked and immediately pulled the door open.

He grabbed Cody’s hand and dragged him into his room. "Are you nuts?!" He asked with a mixture of anger and concern.

"I was just trying to stop you from leaving me outside," Cody winced in pain.

"You’re crazy..." Ida lifted Cody’s hand and stared at his pointy and middle fingers that were turning red.

"You’re really crazy..." Ida muttered as he gently massaged the fingers.

Cody placed his hand over Ida’s arm, "I’m crazy over you," He whispered.

Ida froze, his heart was racing as he slowly looked up at Cody’s eyes, getting lost in them for a while.

"You’re crazy over me too, Ida; I know this," Cody moved his good hand up to Ida’s face.

But before he could touch his face, Ida stepped away.

"I’m not fucking into you, Cody, sit still and let me get you some ice to aid the swelling," He informed and walked over to the fridge.

Cody was sulking; he wasn’t about to let his pain be in vain; he must get at least a kiss from that handsome human in the room with him.

Ida soon returned with a pack of ice, "Sit on the bed," He said to Cody.

Cody obeyed; he walked over to the bed and lowered his bum to it.

Ida went and stood in front of him, taking his hand in his and placing the ice pack on his swollen fingers.

Cody winced, frowning a bit.

The pain made him determined in his resolution: he wanted a kiss, and he would get it.

Slowly, he started to unbutton his white pajama shirt, locking his hot gaze on Ida, who was trying his best to concentrate on applying the ice pack to the swollen fingers.

"Ida..." Cody called in a sultry voice.

Ids refused to look at him, focusing g on his beautiful fingers, even his fingers were seducing him.

Cody unbuttoned his shirt to his chest, leaving his clean-toned chest exposed.

He lifted his free hand and placed it on Ida’s arm, seductively tracing it up his bicep; seeing that Ida didn’t move to push him away, he smirked and slowly removed his hand from Ida.

Ida paused and stared at him, his eyes darkening with lust when he saw the way Cody was looking, his face was so beautiful, and his opened chest radiated under the light.

Cody stepped forward and covered the space between them, he placed one of his hands around Ida’s neck and the other one on his chest.

Cody locked eyes with Ida as he slowly slid his hand down from Ida’s chest. He reached his abd and slid his hand into his shirt, tracing his abs.

Ida gritted his teeth, fighting himself from responding to Cody.

No words were said; Cody had a determined look, while Ida had an observant look; he wanted to see what Cody planned on doing if he didn’t respond to him.

"You’ve been ignoring me, Ida," Cody slid his hand up to Ida’s chest, using his thumb to circle his nipple, his fingers behind Ida’s head sneaking into his hair and slowly massaging his hair.

"I’ve not been ignoring you," Ida replied, closing his eyes and sighing; Cody’s hands and fingers on his hair and his nipple were clouding his reasoning; he couldn’t push him away even though he wanted to.

Cody tipped his toes and lifted his face close to Ida’s, "That’s a lie; you’ve not spoken to me all day; is that how not ignoring someone works?" He whispered close to Ida’s lips.

"That’s not ignoring, Cody, that was me acting how any other person would act toward a distant friend," Ida replied.

Cody frowned. "Ouch. That hurt, a distant friend?" He bit his lips and rubbed his nose against Ida’s.

"Cody..." Ida’s voice was strained as if he was holding himself back from doing something to Cody.

"Yes, Ida...you said I’m just a distant friend right?" His hands left Cody’s nipple and went down.

He went down his abs and past his waistband, cupping him right between the legs.

Ida gasped, gritting his teeth.

"Cody, stop..." Ida warned.

"What? Why? I thought we were just friends?" He whispered sexily.

Ida nodded, "We are."

Cody scoffed, he kissed the side of Ida’s lips and whispered, "It’s warm, it’s big, and it’s fucking hard...friends don’t get hard for each other,"

Ida sighed, "Stop Co-mm..."

Cody shut Ida up with a kiss. He was done playing games with him.

He kissed him hard and urgently, tilting his head for a better angle; he slowly slid his tongue into Ida’s mouth, smiling as Ida automatically sucked on it.

The hand that Ida had been keeping to himself urgently found Cody’s waist, he held his waist and drew him closer to himself, deepening the kiss.

He gasped and suddenly broke away from the kiss when he felt Cody’s hand slipping into his waistband.

"Cody, don’t..." He sighed and stepped away.

Cody frowned, "But you kissed me back," Cody accused, breathing heavily.

Ida rubbed his face, "I...I’m sorry," He apologized.

Cody scoffed and started to walk toward him again, but Ida moved back, trying to avoid Cody’s touch.

"Sorry? Come on, Ida. You’re old enough to know what you want, and you know you want me; you burn for me; why are you fighting it?" Cody asked, staring at Ida sexily.

Ida felt his heel touch the wall beside his door and closed his eyes, he knew there was no way to escape Cody again.

Cody saw him and smirked, he walked over to him and placed his hands on Ida’s chest. "You don’t want me?" He asked.

Ida clenched his fists, "I’m not going to have sex with you, Cody," He stated.

Cody leaned in and bit Ida’s throat, "Yes, you’re not, I just want a taste, and I promise I’ll not bother you anymore," He licked Ida’s lips before he went down on his knees.

"Cody..." Ida called in surprise as Cody pulled down his pants, setting his cock free.

"Shh...I just want a taste..." Cody whispered against the head of Ida’s cock, making him gasp and rest his back against the wall.

Cody smiled when he saw that Ida wasn’t trying to stop him, sticking out his tongue, he took a long, slow lick on the head of Ida’s cock.

"Ohh..." Ida groaned quietly.

Cody took that as a good sign; he braced himself with one hand on Ida’s thigh while the other one went to the base of Ida’s cock and held the hard length steady as he closed his lips around it and slowly moved his head forward and sucked the whole length into his mouth.

"Ashhh, Cody..." Ida’s hand automatically found Cody’s head, gently bunching his hair.

His body shook as he felt his cock down Cody’s throat, his eyes literally rolled behind his head with how warm and perfect it felt.

"Fuck~Cody," Ida gasped as Cody started to suck him like a lollipop.

He watched Cody’s head bob up and down on his cock, and he could feel his fingers playing with his balls.

Ida was losing his mind as he breathed heavily; his stomach muscles were constricting with each suck from Cody, and the slurping sound of Cody’s mouth on him was feeding his ears and making him harder.

"Oh God, You’re killing me," He pushed his hips forward and guided Cody’s head to take him even deeper.

Cody gave him what he wanted, he made sure he took him way down in his throat, choking, but he still took him.

Ida groaned, "Ngh~Haa..." He threw his head back against the wall, shutting his eyes and gripping his fingers tightly around Cody’s hair.

Cody sucked him until every last drop was out of his cock, then he slowly withdrew his mouth from Ida and stood, pulling his pants up as he did.

Ida was panting as he stared at Cody standing in front of him and licking his lips seductively.

He wanted to draw him close and kiss him but Cody simply moved away.

"I should get some sleep; it’s a long day tomorrow; you should sleep too," Cody moved to the door and placed his hand on the handle before he paused and looked at Ida.

"Thanks for tonight; you don’t have to worry; I’ll try to stay away from now on," Cody smiled at him before he left the room.

The soft click of the door made Ida realize that he was really alone in the room, his heart once again breaking into a million pieces.

Maybe it was time he tried again with Cody.

Did he love him? Yes!

He fucking loved him!

 

Chapter 79

The next morning, Zeno woke up feeling emotionally tired

Last night, he couldn’t get the thought of Sebastian off his head; he kept playing the different emotions he saw on Sebastian’s face, trying to make meaning out of them.

He was drained, physically and emotionally, he just wished things would turn out differently for him and Sebastian.

He wanted him, and he couldn’t see himself being with someone else who wasn’t Sebastian.

He got out of bed with a new determination, he was going to keep giving Sebastian the green light until he noticed him. He no longer cared if he was married or not, no wonder some people say that love was selfish.

Although Sebastian had denied having anything to do with Georgia, he still felt like they both had an unresolved issue.

He wasn’t going to be so obvious about it, but he was subtly going to make Sebastian choose, and he hoped he’d choose him.

"I’m a fucking mess, Sebastian," Zeno whispered as he stood in front of his mirror.

He shook his head and went on tondo his morning routines.

Zeno noticed that no one had come to call him or even texted him about today’s activities. He wondered if they were all at the Arboretum like the last time he had woken up late.

He left his room and was very tempted to knock at Sebastian’s door, but he decided against it and 2alked toward the stairs.

He had gone down one stair but suddenly turned around and went back to Sebastian’s door. He raised his hand and knocked before he could change his mind again.

He stood there, but no one came to open the door. He knocked again, and again, and again, but still no one replied.

He sighed and turned away from the door. It suddenly occurred to him that Sebastian might have woken up way earlier and left his room.

He hurried down the stairs and saw Lucia and Julia in the kitchen; he was surprised to see Lucia swing so widely for the first time.

He frowned when he saw Lucia suggestively touching Julia’s shoulder, could it be what he was thinking?

He narrowed his eyes at them and went closer, careful with his steps so he didn’t alert them of his presence.

He paused in the dining, watching them chat and laugh in a carefree manner.

His eyes widened when he saw Lucia leaning in to kiss Julia.

"Aha!" He tapped his finger on the table and pointed at the startled ladies.

He was staring at them with teasing eyes.

Julia blushed hard, hiding behind Lucia.

"So, who’s going to tell me when it started?" Zeno asked, putting a hand on his waist.

"If I were you, I’d not be interested in our story right now; I’d rather be interested in how to meet up with the departing car," Lucia replied, smirking at Zeno.

Zeno frowned, "What departing car?" He questioned.

Julia stepped out from behind Lucia, "The cat taking you guys to the boss’ airport, you didn’t know?" She asked in surprise.

"The trip I told you he was planning, he’s going to Japan with a fee of his bodyguards for business, including you, weren’t you informed?" Lucia picked a red apple from the basket beside her and bit from it, raising her brows at Zeno.

Zeno muttered a curse and quickly turned away from them. Their love story could wait, he was eager to find out what they were talking about.

Znoe quickly left the house and climbed down the stairs; his heart sank when he couldn’t find anyone in the compound; he drew out his phone from his pocket, ready to dial Jasper or Ida’s line, when he suddenly saw Jeremiah walking out from the bodyguards’ quarters.

"Hey, Coach, what’s up, ready to move?" Jeremiah walked up to him and placed a hand around his neck.

Zeno felt a tiny bit relieved hearing that question from Jeremiah, it meant they hadn’t left, but where were they?

"Um, yeah, where are the others?" Zeno pretended like he wasn’t about to have a panic attack a few seconds ago.

He had thought that Sebastian had left him, and he was already imagining how long he was going to stay without seeing him.

"Outside, come on. We don’t want to keep the bus and the boss waiting," Jeremiah and Zeno out of the compound.

Zeno thought he’d see them the moment they walked out of the gate but he didn’t.

"That’s way," Jeremiah pointed to the left, and Zeno immediately turned his head that way.

"What? A fucking limousine..." He gasped in awe.

"That’s for the boss, Coach. You and I are going into that four-wheeled Toyota coaster bus," Jeremiah chuckled.

"Oh, of course..." Zeno was disappointed that he didn’t get to ride with Sebastian.

He started to wonder if this was just a coincidence or if Sebastian was truly avoiding him.

As they walked past the limousine, Zeno tried looking through the tinted glasses to get a glimpse of Sebastian, but he couldn’t see anything; the windows were too dark to allow him.

He sighed and followed Jeremiah’s lead.

The Coaster bus was already steaming as Zeno stepped inside, the door sliding close behind them as they went in.

"Hey, Zeno, over here, I specifically kept this spot for you!" Andre called from the back seat.

Zeno smiled, "You got a seat?" He questioned Jeremiah, not wanting him to feel bad that he had left him to sit with someone else.

"He’s got nothing, just bring your asses over here," Cody called from beside Andre.

"Come on," Jeremiah walked toward Cody and Andre.

As Zeno followed him behind, he saw Ida sitting with Jasper by the left. Jasper had his eyes closed with his head leaning on the window and a wireless headset across his head.

He saw other bodyguards sitting inside the bus, but he just went straight to the space left beside Andre.

"Eaten?" Jeremiah questioned from beside him, bending over to pull out a small cooler from underneath the seat.

Zeno was staring at him weirdly, "You brought food?" He chuckled.

Jeremiah shook his head, "Nah," He pulled a bottle out from the cooler, "Drinks, milk drink, a food substitute, since we all left without food, here," He unscrewed the cap and gave it to Zeno.

"Thank you..." Zeno smiled and drank the milk.

He was really thankful for it, he had thought he would have been hungry for however long the drive was going to be.

"You’re welcome, Coach," He winked at Zeno and dragged the cooler to the center.

"Grab one guys, shut that roaring dragons in your tummy," Jeremiah announced.

He picked one and threw it to his twin, who was sitting in the front row.

"Thanks, Jerry," Thomas wriggled his brows at him.

After everyone had taken a drink and settled down before the bus started to move.

Zeno was quiet as everyone engaged in a conversation with the people sitting beside them.

Andre was speaking with Cody, but he couldn’t just bring himself to join the conversation; his mind was on the person who was inside the limousine that was driving behind them.

He wondered if Sebastian was thinking about hon just the same way he was thinking about him. He was literally losing his sanity as time went by; it was getting to two hours since he woke up, and he hadn’t seen him; he had gotten used to seeing him immediately after he woke up or stepped out of his room.

This distance was irking his body. He didn’t like it.

Zeno brought out his phone and idly scrolled through apps, he hovered his thumb over the message icon, then he swiped it away, then swiped it back, swiped it away again, swiped it back, and this time, he quickly typed in Sebastian’s name and fired off a simple text, "Hey, Seb..." Then he immediately pressed the power button and made the screen blackout, placing the phone face down on his lap.

He tapped his feet on the floor of the bus, his pulse racing as he imagined how Sebastian would react to his text.

Would he be happy seeing it or not?

But when Zeno didn’t get any reply for a long time, his mood dampened more, he sighed and just kept being quiet for the rest of the ride.

They soon reached an airport written, -Orion Airways-

He never knew Sebastian owned an airway, but there were a lot of things he didn’t know Sebastian owned,

"Oh, my creaky old bones!" Cody stretched with his hands above his head, drawing his voice lazily as he did.

Zeno smiled when he saw the irritated look Andre gave Cody. He shook his head and stood from the seat.

As others were busy taking their bags down from the luggage rack, Zeno quickly made his way to the exit, hoping to meet Sebastian before others came down from the bus.

The smooth hissing of the door was heard as Zeno made his way down; he had no luggage, so there was nothing to worry about.

He stepped down and realized that the bus had parked in a private fixed-base operator.

Different types of private jets were parked far from each other, the place was very large, and he could see a couple of staff and security personnel moving around trying to organize things.

He immediately sighted Sebastian moving toward the white private jet in front of him, but he couldn’t go to him; he was surrounded by six security men, leading him up the stairs. He could only stare at his back from behind, imagining what his face looked like that morning.

"You’re out already, come on, let’s get going," Cody came from behind and placed his hand on Zeno’s shoulder.

"Yeah...let’s go..." Zeno replied and started walking with Cofy toward the private jet.

 

 

Chapter 80

Zeno stepped into the well-appointed cabin with high ceilings and large windows that provided plenty of natural light.

The interior designs were extremely luxurious and classy. The plush leather seats, the rich wood accents, the soft, neutral-colored carpets, and the dimmable LED lighting cast a relaxing ambiance to the whole sophistication.

All the things held inside the cabin were worth staring at and admiring, but Zeno ignored it all and searched for someone instead.

He stood beside a reclineable seat and made way for others to pass.

"You want to sit here?" Jasper asked as he walked over to Zeno.

Zeno blinked, realizing he was the only one who was now standing, well, with Jasper, who was the last person to enter the jet.

"Yes, I like the window view," Zeno quickly slid toward the window side and lowered himself.

Jasper nodded with a smile. "Mind if I sit with you, then?" He questioned.

Zeno shook his head, "No, I don’t mind," He replied.

Jasper nodded and lowered himself beside Zeno.

Zeno silently cleared his throat and started to look around once more.

Where had Sebastian gone?

He suddenly received a message on his phone and speedily opened it, but his face fell when he saw the name of the sender; he frowned and turned his head to look for him.

’Why is Ida texting me?’ He wondered.

"Everything alright, Zeno?" Jasper asked softly.

Zeno nodded, "I’m good; I was just searching for Ida," He provided.

"Oh, he’s way back there, need me to get him for you?" Jasper was already standing up but Zeno held him back.

"No, no, it’s alright, I was just checking," Zeno said.

Jasper sat back down and held Zeno’s hand which he had used to hold his hand back. "How have you been?" He asked, looking at Zeno.

The jet started to move before Zeno could reply, he quietly looked out of the window and stared at the passing grasses and jets.

"Zeno," Jasper called softly, drawing Zeno out of his thoughts.

"Yes..." He looked to Jasper.

"I was thinking, after the gala in Japan, you and I should go somewhere, I heard they have this special-"

"Okay," Zeno replied, smiling.

Jasper frowned, he was surprised that Zeno agreed without even letting him finish his words.

"Really? You’ll go with me?" Hasper asked in shock.

Zeno nodded, "Let’s leave the location as a surprise, right?" He kept smiling.

Jasper chuckled. "Sure," He nodded.

Zeno nodded and slowly turned away from him, releasing a quiet breath.

He just wanted to be left alone; if he had his way, he’d have sat in space with no one near him.

As the jet took flight, Zeno slowly lowered his head to his phone and read Ida’s text.

"You won’t see him. He’s in his private cabin."

Zeno shut his eyes and sighed.

Sebastian was definitely ignoring him; if he hadn’t, he would have found a way to get beside him; he knew Sebastian. Even if Sebastian wouldn’t accept it, he sure wanted Zeno by his side at all times.

Soon, food was served to them by the air hostess, but as Zeno ate, he couldn’t taste it. He’s lost all sense of everything, all he wanted was Sebastian.

That mother fucked got him fucked up and abandoned him; there was no way he to let him go just like that.

It was a long flight, but after a few bathroom trips and a few naps, they finally landed.

"Yay, babies, welcome to Japan," Cody announced excitedly.

"Shut your mouth, Cody," Thomas said with a tired face as he walked past Zeno.

He never liked flight, he was always sick after a flight trip.

"You can say that louder, Cody; let’s head out," Jeremiah replied with a smile.

He was the opposite of his twin, he loved flights more than any other travel method.

"You okay?" Jasper stopped and asked Zeno, who was looking like a truck, to run over his favorite toy.

Zeno sighed, "Yeah, just jetlagged." He replied and stood from his chair.

"Come on, we’ll probably get time to rest after the gala," Jasper held Zeno’s hand and helped him up.

As Zeno walked toward the exit, he looked around, hoping to get a glimpse of Sebastian but he wasn’t successful, just like the rest of the day.

He was starting to feel sick. Could he be what people called lovesick?

He followed Japser down the stairs, and a black coaster was already waiting for them; he saw another black limousine parked far away from them; he knew who it was for, and if it wouldn’t have raised suspicion, he would have just stood and made sure he saw Sebastian walking out of the jet.

Entering inside the bus, Zeno looked back and almost gasped.

"Ida..." He called with a little frown.

Ida had been quietly following him behind, and as Zeno wanted to look back at the jet, Ida jumped behind him, placing his hands on his shoulders.

"Come on, bro, everyone’s gonna know if you keep wearing that face," Ida whispered behind him.

"Know what?" Zeno asked.

Ida chuckled and lowered his voice, "That someone’s clingy and lovesick," He smirked at Zeno.

"I’m not, I’m just-"

"Excuse me, guys, you know they’re others behind right?" Cody slid past them and entered into the bus.

This time, it was Zeno who smirked at Ida, "That makes two of us, Ida," He tapped Ida’s shoulder and walked inside the bus.

Ida blinked and realized that he’d been staring at Cody openly as if he was hypnotized by his presence.

He sighed and followed others in.

As the bus drove out of the airport, Zeno tried his best to stare out of the window and admire the beautiful City.

He’d never been to Japan before so he did not want to miss the beautiful and unique sights and architects.

It was 7 p.m. and everywhere looked beautiful, different colors of lights lining the city.

"I heard we’re heading straight to the gala, it’s held by the boss’ father, and he’s expected to be there on time, so there’d be no time to freshen up in the hotel,"

"Yeah, heard it about a family business here in Japan,"

Zeno was quietly listening to the two bodyguards sitting behind him.

That was the most information he’d heard about this trip, Sebastian never said anything about this trip to him, almost as if he didn’t want him here with him.

The bus soon slowed in front of a high black gate of a tall, luxurious hotel, the golden sign engraved on the wall read "Orion Hotels"

Zeno was once again surprised at how wealthy this family was.

The car drove into the gates and the door automatically opened.

"Alright, everyone, our job is quite simple. Secure the perimeters, stay close to the boss, and make sure he gets back to his room unharmed, let’s move," Ida announced and started to walk out of the bus.

Zeno quietly stood from his seat and walked out of the bus.

They walked out of the bus, and three bodyguards from the Orion family came and whispered something to Ida, and Ida motioned for them to follow along.

They were led into the hotel and towards a long passage.

The Orion’s bodyguards stopped in front of a silver doubled-door and turned to Sebastian’s bodyguards.

"The gala shall start in five minutes in the large hall on the first floor. Please change your outfits in here and arm yourselves properly, it’s the big boss’ orders," One of the guards informed and walked away with the rest.

Ida pushed the door open and walked in first, the rest cautiously followed behind.

Zeno was glad they were given an outfit; he was already feeling out of place with his regular home clothes.

He had just jumped onto the bus the moment he was told about the departure, and not a single cloth was packed.

Inside, the room was like a walk-in closet, with mobile wardrobes standing around the room, and the walls were made with huge, clear mirrors.

"It seems the suits have our names on them," Cidy suddenly announced his findings.

"True," Andre agreed, taking out a suit with his name from a hanger.

"Awesome," Thomas mumbled and started searching for his name on the racks.

Ida sighed, "If anyone sees mine please-"

"Over here," Cody interrupted.

He had seen Ida’s name before his, although they were placed right next to each other, but it was Ida’s own that got his attention first.

Ida slowly turned to Cody and walked up to him, "Tha k you, Cody," He said as he took the suit from his; he wanted to touch Cody’s fingers, but Cody drew back and turned away from him, took his suit, and walked to a corner to get changed.

Ida sighed, he was expecting that reaction from Cody after what happened between them last night.

By the side, Zeno had just found his suit and took it out from the hangar.

He went to a corner and started to unzip his pants, ready to pull them down and change into his suit pants.

However, before he could pull it down, the door to the room opened and one of the Orion’s bodyguards walked in.

"Who’s Ida?" The bodyguard asked.

Ida frowned and stepped forward, already dressed in his black suit, earphones, and gun in his hustler. "That’d be me," Ida admitted.

"Come with me; your boss has asked for you," The Orion’s bodyguard informed and immediately turned to the door and walked out.

Ida stole a glance at Cody before he walked out of the room.

Zeno sighed and continued to change into his suit, he wondered what Sebastian needed Ida for.

It was supposed to be him, he was his bodyguard, not Uda or anyone else.

He was feeling the green head of jealousy riding within him, but he consoled himself with the knowledge that Ida already had someone he was interested in.

There was nothing to worry about, right?