Convincing Landon by Serena Yates Page A

you don’t turn me down, I’ll be patient.”
    “I don’t think I could turn you down, even if I wanted to try.” Kendall ducked his head. “I probably shouldn’t have told you this, but I’m a little overwhelmed.”
    “I’m glad you told me. My heart has just started beating again.” Landon sent a quick prayer of thanks to whoever was listening. It looked as though he’d get his second chance.
    “Oh, good.” Kendall looked up, the cutest little grin on his face. “Wouldn’t want you to expire now that we’re finally back together again.”
    “We are?” It was his turn to do the ‘deer-in–headlights’ impersonation.
    “I’ve been dreaming about this moment for too long not to give us a chance.” Kendall smiled. “Nobody knows I’m gay yet, but I have no problem with coming out…now that I have a reason.”
    “You don’t have to, not on my account.” Landon was more than willing to give Kendall time to see what happened and think this through. He may have been sure about his feelings, but that didn’t mean Kendall was.
    “Yes, I do!” Kendall’s eyes widened and his nostrils flared. “Unless you want to keep us a secret?”
    “No way. I’m ready to tell the world. But I’ll do whatever you think is right. I’ve made one monumental mistake regarding our relationship already. I figure it’s time to let you take the lead. And even if that means being quiet about our relationship for a while, until you’re sure, that would be fine, too.” Landon was about to let go of Kendall’s hand as the waiter approached to clear the table, when he realised what he was doing and forced himself not to move. The ball was in Kendall’s court now.
    Kendall grinned and entwined their fingers. The waiter raised his eyebrows but didn’t say anything. Moments later, the used dishes and silverware were stacked and the waiter was ready to leave.
    “Would you like coffee or a dessert?” The waiter’s tone was polite, if a little less friendly than before.
    “No, I’m fine, thanks.” Landon turned to a beaming Kendall. Seeing that look on his hopefully soon-to-be lover’s face was worth any effort. “What about you?”
    “Nothing, I’m fine as well, thank you.” Kendall grinned.
    Landon asked for the check and the waiter promised to be right back. They sat in silence as they waited. It was a good silence, full of promise. After Landon paid, they got up and he regretfully let go of Kendall’s hand. Even as happy as he was with Kendall’s reaction, there was no need to provoke anyone by holding hands or other gestures that were too obvious. He was ready to come out, but he wasn’t ready to behave stupidly and risk everything.
    Once they arrived at the parking lot, he hesitated. He didn’t want the evening to end, but he had no idea what he should do next. He’d never dated, so he wasn’t quite sure what the rules were, but in the end, this was Kendall and he wanted to do what was right for him.
    “So…your place or mine?” Kendall grinned from ear to ear.
    “That easy?” Landon’s cock had gone half-hard just hearing those words.
    “Why complicate things?” Kendall shrugged. “Haven’t we had enough confusion in our lives? I think it is time we cut to the chase.”
    “I’m all for simplifying things.” Landon wished breaking out into a victory dance, including loud whooping, wasn’t so undignified. “Since I’m staying with my brother, it might be a good idea to use your place? Just, you know, for privacy’s sake?”
    “I hear you.” Kendall laughed. “I wouldn’t want my old high school coach to listen in on our activities.”
    “Activities, huh?” Landon grinned.
    “Yeah, I’m having a hard time not shouting for joy as it is.” Kendall pointed at a mid-sized sedan parked in the corner. “That’s my car. Do you want to follow me?”
    “Sure, no problem.” Landon retrieved his keys from his pocket. “Just make sure you don’t lose me.”
    “I live in the north.