“Baxter Lafelle!”

Hagen watched as Baxter walked up the stage, his heart so full it felt like it would burst. He didn’t care what others would think of his crazy-big smile or the tears in his eyes as he was glued to the moment happening right now. Baxter was graduating from college with honors, his master’s degree already planned as the next step. And Hagen couldn’t be more proud as he stood in the California sun.

He waited to approach him till the ceremony was done, as always leaving it to Baxter how open he wanted to be about them. Not that they had ever made a secret of their relationship, not since moving to California. It had been the best decision they could have made.

Hagen loved teaching at Woodcliffe, and true to his word, William had not only hired him but had given him a wonderful opportunity to build a robust academic program. Hagen had accepted that challenge with both hands, and now, almost two years later, he was already reaping the first benefits with a high score by an accreditation program. And they had found a wonderful college for Baxter that had a strong history program as well. Hagen had paid the tuition, and Baxter had let him, surprising him. Then again, the boy had fully embraced their relationship, and they both had thrived.

Baxter came running to him as soon as the ceremony had ended, and Hagen opened his arms, catching him as he jumped. He hugged him tightly, ignoring a few surprised and shocked looks of parents.

“I did it, Daddy,” Baxter said, soft enough so only Hagen would hear.

“I am so, so proud of you, baby boy,” Hagen said as he put him down, then kissed him thoroughly. “I have a wonderful present for you when we get home.”

Baxter’s face lit up. “What is it?”

Hagen grinned. “In all the time that you’ve known me, have I ever answered when you asked me that?”

Baxter rolled his eyes. “It’s my graduation, Daddy. Surely that deserves an exception.”

Hagen casually reached for his wrist and pulled him close, then brought his mouth to Baxter’s ear. “I trust you remember what happened last time when you started whining?”

“Yes, Daddy,” Baxter said, pouting.

“I’d be happy to lock your pretty cock up for another week and keep your present till after,” Hagen threatened, but they both knew it was an empty threat.

Oh, he had executed it last time, and Baxter had hated it as much as he’d loved it. By the end of the week, he’d been ready to explode, and he had as soon as Hagen had taken his cage off. They’d had some pretty spectacular sex afterward, so hot that Hagen had wondered if he could find another infraction as an excuse to put it back on. He did love to see Baxter suffer for him a little. But not tonight. Tonight, he had planned something else.

“Sorry, Daddy,” Baxter said with a hint of real remorse.

Hagen kissed him again, then whispered in his ear, “Remember our to try list? I’ve arranged for number six for tonight…but only if you’re a good boy.”

He let go of him and watched with satisfaction as Baxter’s eyes widened. Then his cheeks grew red, and he gave a quick look around to make sure no one was watching them. “Really, Daddy?”

“Are you gonna be a good boy for Daddy tonight, baby boy?” Hagen asked.

Baxter’s eyes went dreamy. “The best. I love you so much, Daddy.”

“I love you too, baby boy.”