The Number One Star in the Interstellar Era

LAUREN’S smile almost went sideways when Reas added that part about being his boyfriend. Not that he minded, because it was true. But the way he said it, like he was announcing it to the whole room just in case anyone missed it, was a little much. It was like he wanted to make sure everyone knew, even though it was already quite obvious.

If it had been any other time, he might have found it sweet. He might have even played along and flirted back. But right now, he just felt embarrassed. Especially since Cassius Grimaldi was looking back and forth between him and Reas with a puzzled expression. Lauren wondered if the man was about to tell him to stay away from his nephew and offer him a million star coins to do it. Or would that amount be too low?

It was strange that he had not thought about any of this when he met Reas’s parents or even his grandfather. Probably because back then, he had assumed they were all from the same social class. But now he knew that was not the case. Lauren shook his head again. Had he not just told himself he would not let this affect their relationship? And now here he was, making up imaginary problems in his head and thinking of scenarios that would probably never even happen.

He figured he might as well own it. So he just said, "Yeah, I’m his boyfriend."

Casey watched the range of expressions that crossed Lauren’s face. Surprise, embarrassment, awkwardness, helplessness, determination, and finally acceptance. It was an intriguing display, and frankly, quite amusing. He had no idea what was going through the young man’s head, but whatever it was, it had been entertaining to watch.

"Well, welcome to my humble home, Mr. Boyfriend," Casey said, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

Lauren let out a quiet sigh of relief at the obvious welcome. "Please, just call me Lauren. And this place is anything but humble."

Casey let out a small laugh. "I’m glad you think so. Sit down, the three of you. I’ll go get us some tea."

"Let me help you," Astrid said before Casey could protest. He hooked his arm through his uncle’s and started walking towards the kitchen, leaving Casey with no choice but to follow.

With Astrid and Casey having left for the kitchen, Reas and Lauren were now alone in the living room. They settled onto one of the comfortable couches, sitting side by side.

Reas leaned in closer, noticing how quiet Lauren had gotten. "Hey, baby, are you feeling shy?"

Lauren glared at Reas, catching the teasing glint in his teal-gray eyes. He shook his head, a mix of exasperation and affection in the gesture. "No, I feel mortified. Every single time we meet someone from your family, you announce that I’m your boyfriend. Do you really have to do that?"

"Yeah. It’s not like it’s a lie," Reas said, his voice dripping with playful indignation. "Besides, it’s the only time I get to say it proudly, so of course I’m going to do it as often and as loudly as I can."

Lauren’s heart softened at the words. Because of his career, announcing their relationship publicly was not an option. Most of his fans were reasonable, but there were always a few who would not take the news well. And the one they would target would be Reas. He could not let that happen. Reas was a student at the Imperial Military Academy. Lauren would not let their relationship affect his reputation or cause him any trouble.

And then there was the problem with the Lancasters. He wasn’t very knowledgeable about politics, but he knew enough to understand that once they discovered Reas’s connection to the Grimaldis, it would put Lauren in danger if they also found out about their relationship. Reas wouldn’t want that either. So he would never insist on going public. That was why Lauren understood Reas’ decision to share their relationship with those he felt he could trust. It was the only way he could claim him openly without putting either of them at risk.

Lauren raised his hand and cupped Reas’ cheek. He leaned forward and pressed his forehead against Reas’, closing his eyes for a moment. "Oh, Reas."

Reas stared at Lauren’s face, at the dark lashes resting against his skin. He wanted to kiss him. So he closed his eyes and leaned in. But before he could close the distance, a voice cut through the moment, loud and bratty, coming from just a few steps away.

"Eeww... are you two going to smooch?"

Lauren nearly jumped out of his seat at the voice. He probably would have if Reas hadn’t caught his wrist in time. He turned towards the source and found a small boy, maybe eight years old, standing a few feet away with his arms crossed and a look of pure disgust on his face. The silver hair and blue eyes told him this was the cousin Reas had mentioned.

"Nicol, don’t be rude," a man said as he stepped into the living room, his tone carrying a gentle scolding.

Lauren studied the new arrival. He was tall, with the same silver hair and blue eyes that he was beginning to realize was a Grimaldi trait. This had to be the other uncle. Unlike Casey, this man fit the image Lauren had always had in his head of what a noble looked like. Serious and composed, the kind of person who carried himself with quiet authority. The worry he had managed to shake off earlier came rushing back.

"But Dad, they really were about to kiss!" Nicol argued, pointing at Lauren and Reas for emphasis.

Thomas raised an eyebrow. "Even so, there’s no need for you to announce it." He then turned his attention to Reas. "Hello, Reas. How have you been?"

Reas got to his feet and gave a polite nod. "I’m fine, Uncle Thomas." He then gently tugged Lauren up beside him. "This is Lauren Watts, by the way. My boyfriend."

This time, Lauren didn’t feel embarrassed by the introduction. Instead, his nerves kicked up a notch the moment Thomas’s cool gaze settled on him.