He looks in his mirror and watches Michael pull in, and his heart speeds up in his chest. Inviting Michael to his house might not be his best move if he wants to keep things at a slow pace. He remembers Michael wanting a dog but not begging for one, so he didn’t upset his mom, but he had taken every chance to pet and play with any dog he saw. He wants Michael to have a happy end to this solstice and to associate that happiness with Daniel. He still, as an adult, wants to be the reason for Michael’s smile.
Daniel centres himself and gets out of the car.
“Glad you got here okay,” Daniel says, hoping his nerves don’t show as they walk to his front door.
“You made it easy. So how did you end up with a dog and puppies? Planned or did she get out?” Michael asks as Daniel lets them in to the h
