I’m about to knock!
And, with basically no warning, there was a loud knock on the door.
“Is that Roper? I’ll get it.”
“Okay.” He hurried to unbutton his shirt, hearing Roper’s voice ring out.
“You’re Mister Charlie! Pleased. You’re cute as all get out. How’s it going? Have you put Ryder over your knee yet?”
“Have I—well. Goodness. You must be Roper. I prefer Charles, if you don’t mind.”
Oh, for fuck’s sake.
Ryder
Don’t get me fired, man. I like this job
He heard Roper’s phone ding, then, “Oh, sure. Of course. Sorry. Sorry, I’m just playing. Ry has said tons of great things about you. I’m glad you came out. This is a solid event.”
Oh, better.
He got his shirt on and buttoned, then he started tucking in.
“Well, I certainly am looking forward to it. Come in, please. Would you like something to drink? I believe you’ll find soda and water in the mini-fridge. Ryder is just changing after our trip.”
Roper didn’t drink before he rode. It made him puke.
“Oh, that’s kind, but I never drink before I ride, thanks.”
He opened the door, and there was his twin. God, it had been weeks.
“Ry. Damn. You look amazing.” Roper hugged him tight. “Missed you.”
“Yeah.” He couldn’t hardly talk.
He was surprised how well Charles read the room. “You know, we need some ice. I saw a machine down the hall. I’ll be right back.” Charles picked up the ice bucket and the door closed softly behind him.
“He’s cute.”
“Still. Nice.”
“Sorry. Headaches?”
“Not as bad. Your shoulder?”
“Hurts.”
“Doc?”
“Nah.”
Their conversation flew fast and furious, both of them knowing the answers to things before the other asked the questions.
“Standings are good.”
“I’m riding good.” Roper sighed. “Still doesn’t feel right with you not here.”
“I hear you.” But he couldn’t just follow Roper around and not ride.