Haunted

Young Boys

"So," Maddox was lying on his back in bed.

"Don't say it," Brent was lying next to Maddox.

"Okay," Maddox nodded, still staring at the ceiling.

"Let's just pretend this didn't happen," Brent sat up, turning his back to Maddox. "I'm going to shower."

"Can I come with you?"

"No."

Maddox lay there for another minute. When he heard the shower door close he sat up and ran his fingers through his hair. He'd always figured when he and Brent finally had sex again it would just be amazing after all that pent-up frustration. Never in a million years had he dreamed it could be so bad.

"Too bad," Maddox got up. He went into the bathroom and let himself into the shower.

"Babe, just leave it."

"No, you just leave it," Maddox argued. "If we're really going to pretend it didn't happen then let's move on."

"Fine," Brent sighed.

They showered and went back to the kitchen. Eli was still there, wiping down the counter. He looked guilty when he saw Maddox and Brent walk in.

"I didn't know if I should save you cookies or just keep everyone out of the house," Eli explained. "I decided to keep everyone out."

"That's why I saved the cookie dough," Maddox told him.

"You don't look happy," Eli frowned.

"I really wanted a cookie," Brent sounded like he was about to cry. Maddox had to look at him to make sure he wasn't actually crying.

"Oh," Eli had a look of recognition coming over his face. He understood Brent wasn't talking about cookies at all. "I wouldn't worry. You probably just need more time."

"You're not helping," Maddox shook his head.

"Sorry," Eli gave them a sad look. "I guess I'll just go."

"Yeah, might as well warn everyone not to make any jokes," Brent leaned on the counter. Eli made another sad face but left them alone in the kitchen.

"Do you want me to bake you a cookie?" Maddox offered, trying to make a joke.

"No, I want a real fucking orgasm," Brent huffed.

"I might be able to do that," Maddox smirked, running his hands over Brent's chest. "Maybe I just need more practice."

"Dax, stop," Brent pushed his hands away. "Maybe we should just hire you someone since I'll probably never be to able to do that again."

"Ew, don't be weird," Maddox laughed. "I only want you, okay?"

"I'm just trying to be realistic."

"You're being dramatic," Maddox gave him a serious look. "I love you, Brent, we'll get there. I know neither one of us wants to wait any longer but try to imagine how good it's gonna be when everything goes right again. Better than our honeymoon even."

"Maybe," Brent gave him a sad smile.

"Definitely," Maddox grabbed his shirt and kissed him hard.

"Ahem," Clara cleared her throat and Maddox turned to see her carrying in an empty plate. "I invited your sisters to dinner too, just so you know."

"Great. I guess we should start cooking then."

Maddox actually convinced Brent to help him make dinner and they were still working when everyone showed up. With everyone there to set the table and make sure there were enough seats for the kids, Maddox felt a little like the house was coming alive for the first time.