Bound to Liberty

by Kiru Taye

Gloria’s mouth dropped open. “Boyfriend, as in gay boyfriend?”

  “Yes,” he replied hesitantly and glanced at Ethan who squeezed his hand.

  “OMG,” she squealed and hugged him tight again. Then she pulled back. “But isn’t he married?”

  “Separated, by mutual agreement,” Ethan chimed in.

  Gloria’s widening smile lightened his heart. “I’m so happy for you.”

  Then she turned to Ethan. “You’re a very lucky man, do you know that?”

  “I know.” Ethan appeared bemused.

  Gloria squared her shoulder, chin tilted in a haughty pose, hands on hips. “James is an amazing person. You could live a hundred lives and never meet anyone as generous and compassionate and loyal as him. Take care of him. He stood by me when no one else did. Don’t ever fuck up. You mess with him and you mess with me. There are two people in this world I’d kill for and James is one of them. Trust me.”

  “You’re serious?” Ethan’s amused gaze bounced from Gloria to James and back. “Really?”

  She nodded. “If you doubt me, ask James. He knows.”

  Ethan glanced at him, brow raised.

  James grinned like a fool. His tiny sister-in-law reading the riot act to big, buff, badass Ethan was a sight to behold. “It’s true. You don’t want her in bitch mode, ever.”

  “Understood.” His lover chuckled.

  “Good. Welcome to the family.” She embraced Ethan briefly before turning to James and tugging his hand. “Tell me how you two got together. I want the full gist.”

  Ethan kissed him on the cheek. “I’ll be in the kitchen preparing food.”

  “You’re going to cook?” Gloria asked.

  “Yes. Is that a problem?” Ethan replied.

  “Hell, no. There’s no problem.” Gloria giggled. “I look forward to eating the food.”

  Ethan chuckled, striding into the kitchen.

  Gloria dragged James into the living room. “OMG. You bagged one of the sexiest men in Nigeria.”

  “I know.” A rush of adrenaline went through James as he collapsed on the sofa, still smiling ear to ear. Then he sobered. “Sweetie, why aren’t you freaked out?”

  “Because you’re gay. Hun, we’ve suspected for a while.”

  Heart slamming into his chest, he frowned. “Who are ‘we’?”

  “Henry and I, we discussed it after you fell out with Kezie. You haven’t dated a woman since I’ve known you and then when Kezie gets engaged, you fight.”

  His mouth dropped open. He hadn’t thought they would notice. Still, it made sense. They lived together and knew his habits. “Why did you never say anything?”

  She reached across and held his hand. “It wasn’t our place to out you. What if we were wrong? How damaging would that have been? We were waiting for you to tell us. We hoped you’d trust us. I’m so proud of you for telling me. Henry would be relieved.”

  “Relieved?” He almost didn’t believe what he’d heard. All the while he’d stressed and agonised about losing the little family he had. It turned out they loved him regardless.

  “Yes. You know him. He protects this family and he feels as if he’s failing you if you don’t feel safe enough to tell us.”

  “Wow.” James sat quietly for a moment, on the verge of happy tears as the weight of the world seemed to roll off his shoulders.

  Chapter Twenty-Six

  Ethan’s life was headed in a positive direction. Last weekend he’d been invited to Katsina for the Danladi family meeting to discuss the inquiry into James’ stalker. In the gathering had been James, Henry, Malik, Jibril and the Emir Musa.

  Ethan had reported his findings but Jibril had tried to interrupt the proceedings with allegations of James homosexuality.

  Ethan had played the recorded telephone conversation where Jibril had attempted to blackmail James.

  “Jibril, it seems that after all my warnings you haven’t learned anything. Now your intention is to kill your brother? What will you do next?” Musa said in an angry tone.

  “My intention was not to kill him,” Jibril protested.

  “Yes, it was,” Ethan said. “You didn’t want to be held responsible. So you thought taunting him would lead to his suicide.”

  “Yes, I believe so too,” Musa said. “You are a wicked man. And you are no longer welcome in this palace.”

  “No.” Jibril turned to his other brother. “Malik, plead for me. I am still a member of this family.”

  “Brother.” Malik genuflected in respect. “I would like to make a request if it would please the palace.”

  “Sure.” Musa waved him on. “Make your request.”

  “Although this is not my field of expertise, I believe our brother suffers from a psychiatric problem which could be controlled with medication. I submit that he be hospitalised so he could undergo psychiatric evaluation.”

  “What? Whose side are you on, Malik?” Jibril said angrily.

  “I’m trying to help you,” Malik said. “Is it not better than being excluded from the family?”

  “I agree,” Musa said. “You will be confined for six months and undergo psychiatric evaluation. If you refuse, then you will lose the freedom of the palace permanently. Your choice.”

  At that point Jibril was dismissed and the palace guards escorted him out of the place. He had become a pariah, the same status he had assigned James for years.

  James was named Prince Jamal Danladi, grandson of late Abubakar Danladi and tenth in line to the throne of Katsina.

  *

  “Kehinde, what’s taking so long?” Ethan called out as he waited in the living room of his apartment.

  “I’m coming, Daddy” his daughter replied from her room.

  His son, Taiwo, sat on one of the sofas playing on a handheld games console. “Just give her some time.”

  “I told her what time I wanted to leave,” Ethan said as he strode into the kitchen to get some water.

  James had invited him to formally meet his mother today. Since James came out to his sister-in-law and eventually brother, he’d gone all out to ensure that Ethan was included in family events.

  So today they were going to have lunch at James’s mother’s house. Ethan had also decided to introduce his kids who were on a school break. The kids had met James already and they seemed to get on.

  He’d had a chat with Funke about his relationship with James and she had wished him well.

  Kehinde finally came out and they headed out to Ikeja. The house was a modest two-level semi-detached set on a quiet street.

  There were cars already packed in the driveway. He recognised Gloria’s SUV.

  “I don’t see Uncle James’ sport car,” Taiwo commented.

  “Your eyes are always looking out for that car,” Kehinde replied in jest.

  “That’s because I’m hoping Uncle James will let me drive it.”

  Ethan laughed. “Maybe one day he’ll let you.”

  The front door opened and James stepped out, beaming a smile. “You’re here.”

  “Hi, Uncle James,” the teenagers chorused.

  “Welcome. Go in.” James waved them in while he stood beaming the most gorgeous smile at Ethan. Once the twins crossed the threshold he said, “Hello, Sir.”

  Those two words set Ethan’s pulse pounding and he stepped into the man’s personal space and kissed his lips briefly. “Hi, firefly. How are you?”

  “I’m good. But I missed you.”

  “I missed you too. Let’s go inside before the neighbours start talking.”

  James walked in and Ethan followed, closing the door. They strode into the living room where it seemed the twin had already been introduced to everyone.

  Henry and Gloria sat on sofas along with an older woman in a long cream silk tunic and plaited hair.

  “Mum, this is Ethan,” James said.

  Ethan prostrated, the way he’d seen Yoruba men do to their elders. It wasn’t an Igbo tradition but he was trying to make a good impression. “Good aft
ernoon, Mommy.”

  “My son, stand up,” She said. When he straightened, she embraced him. “Thank you for what you did for James.”

  “There’s no need to thank me.”

  “Yes, there is. You saved my son’s life. On more than one occasion. May the Good Lord bless you and keep you.”

  “Amen. Thank you, Mommy.”

  “You and your children are welcome to our family. Our family is blessed and growing with the news from Henry and Gloria.”

  “News?” he turned to the couple.

  “Yes. We’re pregnant,” Gloria announced.

  “Wonderful. Congratulations.” He approached and gave them each a hug.

  “Thank you.”

  Afterwards they were ushered into the dining room for lunch. When they’d seated, James’s mother said. “All I’ve ever wanted was for my children to live long, happy and fulfilled lives. Finally I can be at peace.”

  Chapter Twenty-Seven

  Two months later James had settled into the rhythm of life, happy and grateful to all the people who had fought for him or supported him through the trials of his life.

  Instead of shrinking as he’d feared, his family had grown.

  Of course not every member of the Danladi clan was happy about James’ admission into the family. But he didn’t care. The people who mattered had made it happen, Gloria and Henry for interceding on his behalf, Malik for suggesting the alternative DNA test that removed the need for an exhumation and Musa for making it all happen and exonerating James’ mother in the process.

  Now he had a name and legitimacy, a bloodline as ancient as the kingdom of his forebears.

  Most of all he was grateful for Ethan who had shown him the empowering quality of love. He was no longer afraid to live.

  He still lived in Banana Island but spent most of his time when Ethan wasn’t away in the apartment in Victoria Island where he lived with his cousin Doctor Jocelyn whom James met years ago through Ike Thomas.

  Last week Sunday, Ethan had joined James, Henry and Gloria for Movie Night. That had been the culmination of his joy, sitting curled up on the sofa beside Ethan with his brother and sister in the same room. In a way, he was glad he never shared such an experience with Kezie because it would have been tainted. He was glad Ethan had been the first and would also be the last. He had no intentions of sharing Movie Night with anyone else.

  They’d spent the day together. He’d woken Ethan up with a BJ before they’d headed down for a workout in the complex gym. Afterwards James had made breakfast and they’d lounged—Ethan reading a book out loud on the settee while James curled up beside him and listening to the gravel of his voice. James had taken a nap with his head on Ethan’s lap and had woken to find that Ethan had made lunch, grilled chicken, avocado and rice salad.

  Ethan said he had errands to run and went out for two hours. On his return he took James to TJ’s Bar for a meal, reminding James of their excursions in London.

  By the time they’d left the restaurant and Ethan drove them to Bold, James was already on a euphoric buzz. James had VIP access so they got to sit in the exclusive lounge overlooking the main dance hall.

  A waiter ushered them into their seat. James recalled that this was where Damola used to work. He was glad he didn’t have to see the man ever again.

  James ordered his usual while Ethan ordered a shot of Hennessey.

  When the waiter left, James reached across and stroked Ethan’s arm.

  Ethan grabbed his hand and placed at kiss to his palm, sending tingles into the rest of his body.

  James gasped at the intensity of his gaze. He loved that Ethan remained tactile in public spaces and was always willing to reach out to James when James needed contact.

  The waiter returned and placed the drinks on the table.

  Ethan didn’t release James’s hand. It was as if he was making a statement for the other man.

  The waiter stared at their joined hands and lifted his gaze to Ethan who held his gaze as if in a challenge. He dropped his gaze, picked up his tray and walked away without saying a word.

  “He didn’t look happy seeing our joined hands.” Ethan said as he picked up his cognac.

  “You could be right about him.” James frowned. “Or it could be that he has a thing against two men with joined hands.”

  “Well, I don’t give a damn what he thinks. If I want to hold hands with you, I will hold hands.”

  James twisted his lips. “I know Americans are more liberal about same-sex relationships. But Nigerians are not kind to LGBT people. So I would rather not make waves.”

  “Noted. We’ll do whatever makes you comfortable.” Ethan pressed another kiss to his palm and released it.

  James wished he still had body contact but he was content with knowing that Ethan wouldn’t deny him in public.

  Just then another group entered the lounge.

  James stiffened when he recognised Kezie and Gozie with two girls.

  “Isn’t that your ex?” Ethan leaned towards him. “Are you okay being here?”

  “Yes.” James said. Surprisingly it didn’t hurt seeing Kezie again. “I knew he might be here tonight. I’m fine.”

  Gozie spotted James first and waved at him before saying something to Kezie who turned in James’s direction. The two of them sauntered over.

  “James. It’s been a while. How are you?” Gozie greeted as they embraced.

  “I’m good. You?” James replied.

  “Great.”

  “This is Ethan,” James introduced.

  Ethan stood and shook hands with Gozie.

  “Jay. It’s so good to see you.” Kezie leaned in for a hug.

  James put his hand between them to break the hug. “Hi Kez.” He stepped back. “This is Ethan.”

  James returned to his chair.

  “Hi,” Kezie said as he shook hands with Ethan. “I know you, don’t I?”

  “Yes, we met at Henry’s birthday party.”

  “Oh. Right.”

  Ethan leaned over James. “I’m just going to the gents.”

  James nodded as Ethan strode away.

  Kezie sat in the space he vacated. The waiter returned and took the order from the new arrivals who settled around James.

  Afterwards Kezie tilted his head towards James. “It really is good to see you. Jay. You look good.”

  “Thanks,” James said. “You look well.”

  Kezie always looked good and tonight was no different. But James realised that for the first time since their split he would look at his ex dispassionately and without a grudge. So he could be courteous.

  “Thank you.” Kezie shifted towards James. “I know I fucked up. I’m really sorry.”

  “I know. I’ve forgiven you. Let’s just forget all about it.”

  “Wow. You have?” Kezie’s face brightened.

  “Yes. It’s all in the past. I’m in a happy place so no grudges.”

  “So does that mean you’ll come back to my place later? I’ve missed you.”

  James leaned away. “I think you misunderstand me.” He looked up as Ethan approached and extended his hand which Ethan took. “Ethan is my boyfriend.”

  He stood up and left a dazed looking Kezie on the sofa and joined Ethan in a dark corner where they danced in relative seclusion and stole the occasional kisses.

  “I’m such a lucky man. I think I fell in love with you on the night you drove me home the first time. I thought you were the dark night. What a fantasy, huh?”

  “Not a fantasy at all. I fell in love with you the day of Henry’s birthday party when I saw you standing at the entrance. You looked sweet and sassy and stylish. I wanted to wrap you up in my arms and take you home.”

  “Talking about home, you can take me home right now.”

  “But we only got here.”

  “I know and I don’t care. I only came to show you off to my friends, which I’ve done.”

  Ethan smiled. “Oh, you’re trouble.”

  “You
love me that way.”

  “I do.” Ethan pressed a quick kiss to his lips. “Come on then. Let’s go home.”

  *

  Later that night they were in Ethan’s room and had completed the usual ritual.

  Just laying on his back in the man’s bed was a simple pleasure James looked forward to each time. They’d made love on many occasions since they’d announced their relationship to their families.

  However, tonight was special. For the first he didn’t have the spectre of his ex looming over them. The events at the club had shown him how far he’d come. He hadn’t thought about Kezie since London until he saw the man again.

  Ethan climbed into the bed and covered James’ body with his. The kiss was slow and languid as if they had all the time in the world.

  Feeling wanted and loved, James melted into the sheets as his lover trailed caresses down his body. When a warm, wet mouth sucked on his hard dick and lubed fingers traced his hole, he whimpered, struggling not to come apart.

  Ethan released his dick with a pop.

  James begged, his sphincter contracting and loosening in expectation as a lubed sheathed cock replaced the fingers. Soon his body swallowed Ethan’s hard length. He was filled and stretched.

  Hands braced either sides of James, his lover paused a beat before moving in slow thrusts in and long slides out. When Ethan indicated, James gripped his dick and pumped, his movement erratic as pure lust took over.

  The sight of cum splashing on his stomach seemed to be the trigger for his lover who changed his position, moving to his knees, anchoring James’ thighs and fucking him hard, hips snapping. When he came, he tilted his head back and called James’s name.

  Afterwards, they cleaned up and crawled back into bed.

  Ethan wrapped his arms around him and whispered, “Goodnight firefly.”

  James exhaled a contented sigh. “Goodnight, sir.”

  Finally, James had a sure thing.

  Thank you for reading Bound to Liberty, Bound series book 5.

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  Here is the series reading order