Charles remained rooted to the spot, words failing him as minutes stretched into a tense silence. As they continued to stare at each other, Charles suddenly seemed to have been given a physical jolt. He jumped back to his feet, realization dawning on him regarding how rude he had been.
Not only had he failed to invite the visitor in, but he had left him standing in the hallway, gawking at him as if he were an arrival from outer space. Embarrassment burned at his core.
"Pardon my mistake! Come on in already, make yourself at home," Charles stammered, ushering the man into the magnificent hotel suite.
Stepping inside, Angelo scanned the room. Seeing that the luxury was exactly to his taste, a grin spread across his face. This was perfect. Now, all that remained was to get lost in ecstasy—to forget the outside world, his father, and the looming responsibilities hanging over every corner of his life.
Damn, he wasn't ready for any of those burdens yet.
