Baran hesitated, his gaze drifting to the dance floor. “I’ve always wanted to see Hawaii.”
“Anywhere is good with me, as long as it’s with you,” Daddy Darien teased, winking.
Baran rolled his eyes but couldn’t suppress a smile. “You’re impossible.”
Daddy Darien stood abruptly, extending a hand. “Come on, Mr. Impossible. Time to dance.”
Baran hesitated, but eventually let Daddy Darien pull him to his feet. The music seemed louder now; the beat was undeniable as they found a spot amidst the throng of dancers. Daddy Darien moved effortlessly, his confidence infectious, while Baran tried to keep up, his movements stiff at first but gradually loosening.
“See? You’re a natural,” Daddy Darien said, leaning close as they danced.
Baran laughed, shaking his head. “A natural disaster, maybe.”
“You’re doing great,” Daddy Darien assured him, his voice warm and encouraging. “Just feel the music.”
Baran closed his eyes for a moment, letting the rhythm guide him. When he opened them, Daddy Darien was smiling at him, his expression full of pride.
“Better,” Daddy Darien said, spinning him suddenly, earning a surprised laugh from Baran. He stole a few kisses while they danced.
As the night went on, they danced and talked, their conversation weaving through the beats of the music. The music was loud and festive, and the dancers on the stage were wearing red and green elf outfits that sparkled under the spotlights. The club was packed with people enjoying the show, cheering and clapping along. The server noticed Daddy Darien waving him over and took their order of two Cokes. They sat and waited, absorbing the warmth and excitement of the club. The server returned with their drinks, then they turned their attention to the stage, where the dancers were doing a remix of “Jingle Bell Rock.”
“I come here every year to see their Christmas show,” Daddy Darien said.
A man, his eyes twinkling with mischief, approached the table with a confident stride. “It’s good to see you, Darien.”
“I wouldn’t miss it. This is my boy, Baran.”
“Hi, Baran. I’m Andrei Baranov. My husband, who is my boy too, is dancing on stage.”
“Nice to meet you,” Baran said.
“Sit down for a bit with us?” Daddy Darien asked.
When the stage show ended, a young dancer came to the table.
“I’m Daniel Baranov.”
Andrei introduced him to Daniel.
“Baran will be attending New York University during the spring semester,” Daddy Darien said.
“I go there too. Give me your number, and we can get together,” Daniel said to Baran.
They exchanged numbers, then Daniel had to leave to change his outfit.
“We’ll all have to get together soon,” Andrei said.
“Yes, we definitely will and thank you for the generous donation to Rainbow Haven.”
“Any time. Nice meeting you, Baran.” Andrei left them.
Baran sat with Darien at their table while the club was still alive with energy, its neon lights casting a colorful glow across the room. He stared at the walls adorned with glittering decorations.
The dance floor was packed with people once again, their movements fluid and joyful. A stage at the far end of the club would showcase the talented performers again in thirty minutes. Baran felt a thrill being in such an animated environment, surrounded by the buzz of laughter and conversation.
He turned to Daddy Darien with a smile. “I can’t wait to start college and make some new friends. It was so great meeting Daniel, the dancer. He’s so talented and friendly.”
Darien nodded, his eyes reflecting the colorful lights of the club. “You’ll meet a lot of interesting people in college. It’s a great opportunity to build connections and explore new things.”
