sleep until now. His face is so relaxed. He’s in my arms, his head on my chest. He’s so peaceful when he sleeps. I examine every inch of his face, making my way from the lips to his hair. So beautiful, so masculine. I wish I could hold him forever like this.
Levi’s brother spends most of his time in New York. When we arrive, we find him already here. His face is blank but still calculated. He lets no emotions pass. He left 30 minutes ago with some business.
Its noon and Levi wakes from his deep sleep. I kiss him on his forehead, he doing the same.
“How is he doing?”
“His fine now, the doctors said it’s all ok. You don’t need worry, ok?” Let’s go eat something, I’m starving.”
“Me too. But first, let me check on him. After we go eat.”
We do as he says. Later in the day, after hours and hours of torment, a ray of hope shines upon us. The doctors inform us that his uncle is in stable condition. The worst part has passed. He was lucky but not for long. His life expectancy is only a couple more months at best.
All well, we return the next day home.
Saturday. Levi told me a while back about a cool party that is tonight. I wonder what kind of parties Levi goes to.
As I mention the event, you can still see his still affected.
“If you want we can stay home. We don’t need to go if you don’t what to.” I comfort him as well as I can.
“He grabs my hands, puts them together, feeling the heat of his body.
“I’m ok. I told you we are going. It’s what I need to remove this state I’m in. Besides, I want you to be happy.”
“I’m happy when you are happy, babe. Trust me.”
I caress his chest, sensing his heart beating inside him. So powerful, so steady, like a clock.
We leave the house around nine. Oliver is driving his SUV. Mia is in the front seat and us too in the back. Mia is on her phone, talking with a friend. We sit in silence, myself thinking about the people I will meet and all the crazy stuff I hope will not take place tonight. I look at Levi, not able to imagine what he is thinking of.
Leon, I heard, is the host. Levi didn’t actually tell me anything about him, just that he is an arrogant bastard. That sums it up! Who knows, maybe his a nice guy, but I doubt it.
As we get in front of the house, you can hear the music. The beat echoes inside my chest, making it vibrate. I like that feeling.
This guy’s house is huge. We get out of the car and make our way to the front entrance. There, two bodyguards check everybody. With them stands a young blonde, holding the invite list.
Of course, our names are on the list. We pass the gate and insanity breaks loose. At least 300 people are here. The party is held in and outside the house.
This guy has three pools. Everywhere you can see people having a great time, dancing to the music. I look at Levi. He is unfazed by all of this. I guess his used to this kind of stuff. Maybe he does the same; have crazy parties as this one.
Mia separates from us, going ahead. Oliver remains, just to welcome Leon and his friend Zane. The guys directly head into the house, up the stairs. I follow them, not knowing what to do. On the second floor we find them. Leon is sitting on a leather couch, Zane is at the bar.
“Friends, you came. I’m glad. Brother, have a drink with me. Let’s forget our past differences.”
Zane gives them a glass each and looks at me. I look back, not knowing what to say.
“Thanks Leon for having us,” says Levi. “After what happened, I didn’t think you would still consider me and my brother your friends.”
I can’t imagine what is Levi talking about but I stay quiet.
“Nonsense, that’s business, right? This is pleasure. Don’t worry about that incident, I will get you back,” Leon says with a grin on his face. His pretty but he looks dangerous, even when he smiles.
“If you can, old friend, if you can!” Levi continues on a happier tone, like the pressure has lifted.
In the
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Robert Graysmith
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Chris Fox
James Sallis
John Harris
Robin Jones Gunn
Linda Lael Miller
Nancy Springer