Chapter 4
“This is Dean Chapman. Jay’s partner.” Jay’s mother spoke as if they discussed business in a boardroom, but at least she had taken to introducing him as one of the family these days. Partner, though…Dean winced. She made him sound like some executive in a law firm.
What would he prefer? Good question. Boyfriend? Too passé. Lover? Too much information. Until someone invented a more suitable phrase, partner sufficed, especially for this lot. How many aunts, uncles, and cousins did the Reids’ have?
Dean stifled a yawn, swallowing it down so that it lodged in his throat. Felt like he’d choked down a socket. Hurt like a bastard. He blinked several times to stop his peepers from watering. Good thing a handshake and a smile worked in place of meaningful conversation. Dean was unable
