Torn Between Tides

Chapter Twenty Three

Colt's second question could easily be answered.

Roman worked at a goddamn hospital, of course it shouldn't be a surprise if he smelled like blood. Plus, Colt was a werewolf and his nose was sensitive to such scents anyway.

Colt didn't go home immediately after leaving the hospital. He decided to take a long drive to clear his head. His phone had buzzed a couple times, but he had ignored it. It was probably Roman texting him, or at least he hoped so, and he wasn't quite ready to read what he had to say just yet.

Maybe that was a little immature. Maybe Roman was simply tired after a long day of school and then work. The guy did have a lot on his plate, combined with swim practice as well. But still...Colt couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Roman's refusal than just exhaustion.

The drive didn't help.

Colt parked in his driveway, but instead of going inside his house, he went to the forest instead. He hadn't turned in a while, and this was the only way he could think of to blow off some steam. Before stripping his clothes and turning, Colt finally decided to look at the messages that Roman had sent him.

To: Colt | From: Roman

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to snap at you. I was just tired after work

To: Colt | From: Roman

I don't wanna make excuses though, so I'm really sorry. That was totally uncalled for and I swear I'll make it up to you tomorrow

To: Colt | From: Roman

I have afternoon practice tomorrow. Ends at 1, pick me up? Or come watch the practice if you're free

Roman picked up dinner on his way home. He wasn't sure whether Ezra would have food prepared or not since he hadn't spoken to him in over a day now. Once at his door, Roman took in a deep breath before twisting the doorknob and walking inside.

"Ezra?" Roman called out, but was met with no response. He frowned as he walked to the living room, only to see his brother sitting on the couch. His arms were crossed in front of his chest as he glared at the wall infront of him, clearly looking pissed.

"So you finally show up, huh?" Ezra mumbled.

"I brought a peace offering," Roman replied, placing the paper bag on his brother's lap. Ezra peeked inside, the corner of his lips rising in a small smirk.

"Don't think that you can smooth everything over just with dinner," Ezra spoke.

"It's your favorite, though," Roman added, making Ezra scoff.

"I was worried about you," Ezra stated. "Did you stay the night at your boyfriend's or what?"

"He's not my boyfriend," Roman muttered, feeling annoyed already. He could tell exactly where the conversation was going to go again.

"You clearly like him enough to fight with me over him," Ezra retorted. "And to want to stay in this town despite knowing our plans. I thought we were clear on everything, Rome."

"We were but...but is there really no other way?" Roman whispered. "This town is good. I'm sure the hospital will offer me a permanent position once I graduate and then we can—"

"The plan, Roman!" Ezra cut him off, raising his voice and startling the swimmer. "We can't fuck around with the plan!"

Roman bit his lower lip, not knowing what to say to his brother. He was the most stubborn person that he knew, and Roman was certain that Ezra wouldn't budge at all. Arguing with him wasn't going to be of any use, so Roman didn't bother wasting any more of his energy as quietly went to his room instead.