Take Two

Chapter Nine

Micah

I paced back and forth across the back of the main studio. Most people had already left for the night, which I should have done, too.

Except I was stalling. I knew that I was, but I couldn't help it. Not when I knew Renaldo Morales was waiting for me outside and I had no idea what to say to him. If I even wanted to talk.

Renaldo Morales was gay.

He told me so himself.

I didn't know if I could believe him. Not when I've seen pictures of him in magazines over the years as America's heartthrob, sexiest man alive, and all those other titles people gave him. Mostly, though, I kept remembering the pictures his wife was in, where he looked at her with such love in his eyes. It was so obvious, no one could miss it.

There was no way that look was fake.

I suppose he could be bisexual. But then why leave his wife? And why did she still come to visit, playing the part of a perfect wife to him after knowing he didn't love her anymore?

I wanted to understand, but I was scared to find out where that information would lead.

"Micah? What are you still doing here?"

I jumped, turning around to face my coworker, Maria. "I thought you left twenty minutes ago," I said, avoiding her question.

She laughed. "I was going to, but then I started talking to Renaldo outside. He is such a nice guy! Have you ever actually talked to him?"

I shrugged, not wanting to say anything. I could say yes, that we've actually hung out at a bar together. Or I could say no because I didn't want to admit anything. Either way would lead to an uncomfortable conversation I didn't want to happen.

"Well, you're missing out," Maria went on, not missing a beat. "He is so down to earth and so friendly. Man, what I wouldn't do to to be his wife..." She sighed longingly, completely unaware of the real situation between Renaldo and his wife. "Anyway, I left my purse in here, so I better go find that. Have a good night, Micah!"

I let her go, an uneasy feeling building in my gut. Renaldo was definitely waiting for me, like he said he would. Why wouldn't he be? He kept his word, that much was obvious. Which meant he wasn't lying about what he said yesterday.

But why me? Why confide in me? Was I the first gay man he knew? Did he, for some impossibe reason, like me?

Oh god, what if he asked me out?

No. He wouldn't. That was ridiculous. He probably just wanted advice. Yeah, that's it. For sure.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. I could easily just wait him out. But how long would that take? And then I'd be the asshole for avoiding him. Again.

No. I had to go talk to him. It's just advice. I could probably do that.

With another deep breath, I headed for the door. Within seconds, I was outside, looking around the area until my eyes fell on him.

Renaldo was talking to one of the extras, showing her what looked liked pictures from his wallet. Most likely of his children. He practically glowed in the light from the sunset, streaks of gold illuminating in his hair. He was even more gorgeous than usual, which I didn't think was possible.

He glanced up and our eyes connected. I froze in my spot. Was he going to stop his conversation to talk to me? Or was this my chance to slip away without saying anything?

No! I scolded myself. Stop trying to run!

I shook my head, ripping my gaze away from his. It's just a conversation. What was I so nervous about?