Web Of Secrets

CHAPTER.4

Mason found it hard to concentrate at work the next day. Desmond's message kept ringing in his thoughts. “Dinner tomorrow, Just the two of us, we need to talk.” What Desmond wanted to talk about that can't be said during work hours.

Mason informed Julie that evening that he was meeting with Desmond for dinner to talk about work. She was as supportive as always. “That sounds very important,” she said, kissing him on his cheek. “Just be yourself, and don't worry too much about it.”

Mason nodded, trying to shake his worries off. “Thanks, Julie, I will be back soon.”

Desmond had already arranged an upmarket restaurant downtown. As Mason arrived, he was ushered to a private dining area where Desmond was already seated sipping on a glass of wine.

“How was your day? Mason, it's great to see you.” Desmond said, standing up to meet him.

“Busy, but it's good. Thank you again for the opportunity”, Mason said, sitting down.

Desmond put on a warm smile. “You deserve it. I've always known you had potential.”

They ordered their meal and exchanged small conversations about work and life as they ate. Mason sensed Desmond was holding something back, and maybe waiting for the proper opportunity to bring it up.

As they finished their meal, Desmond leaned closer, “I wanted to talk to you about something personal.”

“What do you want to talk about? Mason inquired.

Desmond paused for a while. Trying to select his words carefully. “You know, back then in school, I used to admire you. Not just for your intelligence and drive, but also for your personality.”

“Thank you, Desmond. That means a lot.” Mason said, trying to figure out where he was heading.

Desmond continued, his eyes piercing. “ I have always felt a special connection with you that goes deeper than friendship. Seeing you again rekindled those feelings.”

Mason opened and closed his mouth for a while, trying to figure out what to say. “Desmond, I… I don't know what to say.”

Desmond stretched his hands across the table, grabbing Mason's hands. “You don't need to say anything. I only want you to understand how I feel. I believe there is something very special about you and me and I wish you could feel it too.”

Mason pulled out his hands, feeling confused. “I am with Julie, Desmond. She has always been there for me through everything and I can't betray her.”

Desmond nodded with soft eyes. “I understand that, and respect your decision, but I can't deny my feelings for you. You don't have to decide right away, just think about it, Mason.”

The room suddenly felt too small for Mason. The conversation began to make him uncomfortable. “Desmond, this is a lot to take in.”

Desmond replied, leaning back to his chair. “I understand, I did not intend to overwhelm you, Mason, I simply couldn't keep my feelings to myself any longer.”

They finished their dinner so quietly and the tension between them was so obvious. As their bill arrived, Desmond insisted on paying. “Consider it a thank-you for honoring my invitation and hearing me out.”

As they stood to go, Desmond, filled with both hope and worry, looked Mason in the eyes, “Can we still be friends, regardless of what happens?”

Mason nodded slowly. “Of course, I just… need some time to process everything.”

“Take as much time as you like, Mason. I will be here waiting.” Desmond said.

They strolled out of the restaurant, the night air was cool on Mason's hot skin. Desmond looked at him with a mean expression. “ One more thing, Mason."

“What?” Mason inquired in a low tone.

Before Mason could react, Desmond moved closer to him and kissed his lips gently. It was a quick encounter but powerful, leaving Mason shocked.

Desmond drew back with his eyes still focused on Mason." Think about what I told you.”

Mason stood paralyzed as Desmond walked away.

Mason returned home to find Julie waiting for him with a troubled expression on her face. “How was the dinner?” Julie asked. Mason tried to find his words, but the taste of Desmond's kiss was still fresh on his lips.