“How’d a kid like you get to be so smart?”
“Kid?” Toby looked hurt. “I’m younger than you, but I’m not really a kid. The university thinks I know enough to teach their undergrad students. I’ll get my master’s this spring. And I’ve had some experience with loving guys.”
“s**t, I’m sorry,” Ben said. “I was just teasing. I should have said that you’re a wise guy. No, that didn’t come out right! You’re insightful, you have wisdom I wouldn’t have expected in someone your age.”
Toby was laughing. “Dude, maybe you’d just better shut up. I’ll take the compliment, even if it wasn’t in quite the words I wish you’d chosen.”
An embarrassed Ben smiled at his guest and then sighed.
“I see what you mean. And you’re right. If you want love, you can’t be a monk. It’s just pretty scary. Besides, I’m ov
