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“I didn’t know you were co,” Paul said “You should have called first”

Ian raised his eyebrows They both knew very well that Ian had called, many times, and that Paul had not picked up Paul looked away, an admission

“Are you going to let me in?” Ian asked

Paul gestured toward the living room, and Ian stepped inside

“We have to talk about this,” Ian said

“I don’t understand you You were doing so well After everything you went through, the shakes, the detox, you want to start all over again?”

“I’m sorry I let you down”

“Don’t apologize to me You let yourself down”

“Yeah, I did But it happens Alcoholics have relapses And you know that… That’s not why you’re avoiding me”

Paul folded his ar on his left shoulder, protecting his heart He was facing Ian’s general direction but could not look him in the eye

“You were drunk,” he said “Can’t we leave it at that?”

“You weren’t”

Paul looked down at his feet and didn’t answer

“I’,” Ian said “That was a mistake But I’m not sorry I kissed you”

He waited for Paul’s answer, but it didn’t co to make eye contact, “Are you?”