Second chance

9. Dating

The relationship between New and Tay had changed drastically after the night they had sex.

For the next few days, New seemed to have been on edge – always nervous and fidgety. Try as New might to hide his feelings, Tay sensed something was wrong. He’d have to make it clear for New because he wasn’t going to allow for whatever it is that’s going on between them to disappear.

“Hey!” Tay stood on New’s doorway, a towel on his hair.

New looked up from his book and stiffened. “H-Hey.”

He had hoped Tay wouldn’t notice his odd behavior as he straightened his back. To his surprise, Tay chuckled mixed with a sigh. He smiled as he sat on the edge of the younger’s bed. He held out his hand, waiting for New to take it. When New hesitantly placed his hand on top of Tay’s warm one, he gave it a squeeze. “Let’s talk.”

“Um okay.” New set his book aside and took a deep breath. ‘Here we go.’

“Look I’m not going to deny that the sex was beyond amazing but I want you to know that I’m not only after that. Even if I do think about it, it doesn’t mean I always want it to happen. Some days I just… want to cuddle with you or… watch movies with you and Pleum or go on dates.” He paused to check on New's reaction and when he sensed New’s shoulder relax, he continued, “I want us to get to know each other in other aspects too.”

New blinked. “Why are you being so nice to me?”

“Because… because I really really like you. I’m serious about you and I understand that you just had divorce and you’re still going through a lot but I’m willing to work around that.”

“Why?”

“I just want you to be happy – You and Pleum.”

***

“You don’t have to go away for work. I mean I have a job and we could-"

“I just want you to be happy – you and our son. If that means working my ass off to provide for my family then I will do what I have to do. I’m just doing what I can Baby.” The husband loosened his tie before melting on the couch to watch TV.

“But I just want-"

“Let’s not argue with something like this, yeah? I just came home and I just want to relax.”

“Oh okay.” New dropped the issue and told his husband he’d go shower first. He stared at his reflection in the mirror and sighed. There were dark circles under his eyes and he lost his once vibrant self.

He touched his face and sadly smiled at his reflection. He’s afraid to admit it because admitting would mean everyone was right.

But the words he wanted to say still lingered in his mind.

‘I’m not happy anymore.’

***

“I… I honestly don’t know what I want.” New pursed his lips together – the memory haunting him like an incurable plague. He knew it was unfair for him to project his insecurities on Tay and even if he tried, it can’t easily be all forgotten.

“Well until you figure it out, I’ll wait for you. Should the time come that you decide that you just want a fling, that’s okay with me too. I’ll be happy with whatever we have.”

New held back the tears that threatened to fall. He was honestly afraid because he’s had his share of broken promises and love.

“Hey, don’t overthink things. Take your time. I’ll be here. Okay?” Tay whispered. The younger nodded which only made Tay teasingly pout at him. He cupped New’s cheeks and planted a soft kiss on the older’s forehead. “You better get some rest now.”