Don't Panic - B. Hargrove

FOUR

David was feeling hot. The sensation was mostly physical and due the sun mercilessly burning down on Hawkins in courtesy of the newly discovered ozone hole.But it was also because despite all the gorgeous women lined up next to the pool at each shift change, he was the only one Billy was focusing on when he made his way to the high chair of the lifeguards. And he was the first to check on David when the boy was around during his breaks.
And Billy was definitely smoking in his bright red swimming shorts, and the whistle dangling from around his sun-kissed neck.
David's gaze was glued to the boy as he sat at his favorite picnic table under the shade of one of the striped parasols, a book in hand with the sole purpose of being a cover to peak over. And he smiled as the whistle echoed through the air, announcing Billy climbing down and darting towards him.

David's pulse quickened as Billy approached, every step a reminder of the secret thrill they shared. From a distance, it looked like just another casual encounter between old classmates, a simple exchange of greetings on a lazy summer afternoon. But up close, David could see the glint in Billy's eyes, the way his lips curled into a barely restrained smile, a smile meant just for him.

"Hey man, mind if I join you?" Billy's voice was casual, his demeanor easy and relaxed. To anyone watching, it was a perfectly normal interaction. But David felt the heat rising to his cheeks, a mix of the summer sun and the intensity of Billy's presence.

"Sure, go ahead," David replied, doing his best to keep his voice steady. He shifted slightly on the bench, making room for Billy to sit. As Billy settled in beside him, the scent of chlorine and sunscreen filled the air, mingling with something distinctly Billy.

Billy leaned in, his voice low enough that only David could hear. "You look cute. I like when you visit," he murmured, a cheeky little grin in his lips.David's heart fluttered, the words sending a shiver down his spine.

"Thanks," David said, his own voice a whisper. He glanced around, making sure no one was paying too much attention to them. The pool was crowded, filled with the sounds of laughter and splashing, a perfect cover for their stolen moments.

Billy's hand brushed against David's, a fleeting touch that sent a jolt of electricity through him. It was stupid,but David had already missed his touch, although Billy had spent the night once again.

"How's the book?" Billy asked, his tone louder now, back to the facade of casual conversation. David followed his lead, holding up the paperback with a shrug.

"It's alright," he said, flipping a page absently. "Helps pass the time."

Billy nodded, leaning back on his hands, his posture relaxed.
"Good to hear," he said, his eyes still locked on David. There was a moment of silence, comfortable and warm,just the two looking at each other.
"Maybe I should sneak you into the locker room," Billy smirked.
"No thank you," David responded with a small shake of his head. "The air in there is dreadful."
"A pity," Billy hummed as he leaned back in his seat as if to sunbath, well aware of the pairs of eyes locked on him, flaunting his body lazily.
"You got the late shift tomorrow,don't you?" David asked as he watched him and Billy nodded,licking his lips.
"You wanna go to the movies with me? Kids want to watch Back to the Future again and Steve can sneak us in. The last row is always empty."
A smirk grew on his boyfriend's lips at the implications flooding his mind at that. And as usual, David blushed at that. He was still rarely the one asking for dates. But when he did, Billy seemed to love it.
"Sure," Billy said quietly. "But only if you let me buy you ice cream first."

David's smile widened, feeling the butterflies in his stomach flutter more intensely.
"Deal," he agreed, his voice barely above a whisper.

Billy's fingers tapped lightly on the table, a silent rhythm only they understood. "Good," he said, leaning in just a bit closer, his voice dropping again. "I like treating you."