Tempt Me (Tattoos and Temptation #1) - Mia Monroe Page 0,3
selective before me. Definitely not into hookups.”
I nod in the direction of the shop, indicating for us to continue walking. “Yeah, that might be cool. It’s like, now that I know this about myself, I want to explore it, you know?”
“That’s how I was. Just jumped in the deep end.”
“The weird thing is, I can’t get myself to go out with a woman. I won’t lie and say that I didn't have my share of hookups in the past. I could always get a woman. That sounds arrogant. Not what I meant.”
“No, I get it. You’re a good-looking guy. You didn’t have trouble.”
“Right. Even though I’m in one hell of a dry spell, I can’t seem to go back to my old habits. Maybe I’m getting old.”
Jude laughs. “I don’t think that’s it. You just need to find a nice guy you’re attracted to and can trust. Then watch the floodgates open. You might never go back. I never thought I’d be all about the D, but…” He shrugs. “Here we are.”
I laugh, patting his back. “I appreciate the honesty. I don’t have a lot of people I can talk to. Lucien will always listen, and he’s super supportive, but he’s straight. He doesn’t get it.”
“I get it. You can talk to me anytime.”
“Thanks.”
We enter Black Heart and set the pastries down. I grab a couple before I go back to tackle more paperwork. After settling at my desk, I fire off a text to Lucien, telling him what Briar said and letting him know Felix can call me anytime.
From what I know so far, the guys at the bakery are super close, inclusive, and accepting, which is exactly the environment Felix needs. If he’s anything like he was ten years ago, he’s going to love working there. And I’m more than happy to help him get settled. Maybe we can even be friends. He could teach me about gay dating. I laugh to myself.
Now wouldn’t that be something?
Felix
After settling into the tiny twin bed I last slept in ten years ago, I dial my brother for a video call. It rings a few times, but then his face appears, drawing a smile to my lips.
"Mon frère," I greet. “How are you?”
“Felix.” His gleeful face warms my heart. “Safely at home?”
“Yes.” My eyes shift around the room. “Feeling a bit of time warp. Nothing has changed about the room, but everything has changed about the person in it.”
Lucien smiles. “I can imagine. Did maman smother you in kisses?”
“Of course. Even Papa was a little much. It’s my fault, no? I was away too long.”
“It’s not like they haven’t seen you. It’s just been a long time.”
“Yes.” I drag my fingers through my hair. “It is a strange feeling, but a good one. I am happy to be here again. If only my charming older brother were with me.”
“I know. It’s hard on me sometimes, but I’m doing good work here. Someone has to speak for people whose voices are never heard.”
“It is important work, I know.” I exhale. “I just miss you.”
“I miss you too. Your hair is so long.”
Smiling, I drag it out through my fingers to show him. “It's past my shoulders now. I love it.”
“It suits you.”
“Merci. What urgent news did you have for me?”
Lucien smiles. “I took some liberties on your behalf and spoke to Apollo. You remember him, yes?”
Let’s see. Do I remember Greek god Apollo? His shiny black hair, piercing dark eyes, and knee weakening smile? Do I remember how his deep voice vibrated in me like bass turned up too high? Do I remember the electricity that shot through me the time he let me touch his tattoo? Do I remember the first crush my gay little heart ever had? Do I remember the fantasies I had that he would somehow see me as an adult and fall madly in love with me regardless of the fact that he is frustratingly straight?
“I do,” I answer simply.
“Well, he’s managed to get you a chat with the manager of a very popular bakery in one of the trendiest parts of town.”
I sit up. “No. Vraiment? Is it true?”
“True. Apollo works across from it, and he’s friends with most of them. They are amazing. I went out with them when I was there for a visit. We had a blast. Very LGBT friendly, and they are all friends. I think you would love it.”
“That’s wonderful. I’m so tired of…” I pause, my brow furrowing when I