Hands On Learning

37. how could I deny

song of the chapter: Since we're alone by Niall Horan

L

The vulnerability of Louis' words were worth the smile that spread across Mr. Styles' face. He pulled Louis in closer and the boy happily snuggled into the man's chest. After a moment, Mr. Styles responded.

"I haven't always been fair to you, accusing you of seeing other people just because you got a text late at night or used your toy at home... and I'm not proud of that. I know I told you once that my trust is earned and I want you to know that you have it now."

Louis lifted his head to make eye contact with Mr. Styles, almost wanting to pinch himself to make sure he wasn't dreaming.

"Thank you daddy," the boy said a little shyly. "You won't regret it."

"I know," he responded, leaving a kiss on top of Louis' head. "Now, how about a fresh manicure?"

"Ooh, yes please!" Louis replied excitedly. "I want lavender this time."

"Consider it done, baby."

The two redressed and Mr. Styles retrieved his manicure kit on the way downstairs. Louis hummed happily as they made their way outside to the backyard with a blanket to sit on.

Louis admired the scattered clumps of wildflowers surrounding them as Mr. Styles filed his nails. He reached his free hand out to pluck first a large dark purple violet and then a small white one with a pale yellow center. He held them up to the man.

"Look daddy, it's us," Louis joked and the man glanced up and smiled big enough that his dimples showed.

"It is us," he agreed. "You're the prettiest flower I've ever seen."

Louis blushed a little. "Thanks daddy." He laid the flowers down on their blanket to save for a bud vase.

The man pulled out a bottle of nail primer and shook it. "So," he asked as he took Louis' delicate thumb in his grip. "How was Boston?"

Louis gushed, of course. "It was great daddy! The campus was beautiful and I made a friend at the cafe, Tom. He recommended professors and showed me the way to the dean's. You could've warned me that Marcel looks exactly like you by the way."

Mr. Styles tossed his head back and laughed. He capped the primer bottle and reached for the lavender polish. "We've gotten that a lot over the years. I wish I could've seen the look on your face."

"I did my best not to gawk... anyways he was really nice and answered all of my questions. They have a GSA club - gender and sexuality alliance and I'm planning to join. If I get in that is."

"That's lovely Lou, I'm sure you will get in. Actually Marcel called last night to tell me that you're one of his top candidates." He dragged the pastel polish across Louis' nail expertly while Louis watched.

"Really? Oh wow," Louis replied thoughtfully. He was having a hard time letting himself get all the way excited about the opportunity, as it was a two hour drive from home - and his daddy.

"Louis there's something else I wanted to talk to you about," the man started, continuing to paint his nails carefully.

"Okay, you can tell me anything," Louis said bravely.

"Back when I first started helping you with college applications and you mentioned Boston University as your first pick, I applied for a job in the Boston area. And I just recently got word that I got the job. It's for a Chemistry teacher at a high school and I'd be head of the science department too. I wanted options for us so we could continue this after your graduation."