Baran laughed, feeling a surge of pride. “Thanks to you.”
They continued to skate, the world around them fading into a blur of lights and music. For those precious moments, everything felt perfect. Baran realized that this was more than a day out—it was the beginning of something special. The connection he felt warmed his heart and reassured him of the possibility of a future.
As they stepped off the ice, Baran’s heart swelled with gratitude. With Darien by his side, he knew that anything was possible. They had made a memory that day, one that would stay with him forever.
“I appreciate you helping me. I didn’t think I would make it. I’m lucky I found you.”
They sat on a bench, carefully removing their skates and slipping on their shoes. Darien took the skates and put them inside the backpack.
“How did you find Rainbow Haven?”
“I had breakfast where Silas works. He told me.”
“Silas is a successful guy. He’s young, but he has a big heart. He’ll make a good friend. It’s good he’s your roommate too.”
“Yes, that was a surprise. I have two others too.”
“Finley and Hawk. Don’t let Hawk intimidate you. Despite his tough demeanor, he is incredibly loyal and fiercely protective of those he cares about. He takes a while to warm up to new people. He’s had a rough time. He’ll love you once he gets to know you. And Finley is a hard worker. He grew up in group homes. He never had a family until he came to us.”
“Hawk is scary. He looks like a gang member.”
“He’s an ex-gang member. He’s made a lot of changes. Give him time. How about lunch?”
“I’m hungry.”
“What kind of food do you like?”
“All kinds.”
“Do you like pizza?”
“Love it.”
Chapter Five
Darien
Darien and Baran descendedthe narrow outside staircase into the dimly lit space of Napoli Pizza Palace, one of the hidden gems of the East Village culinary scene. The restaurant was tucked away in an upscale neighborhood, its entrance marked by an elegant, understated sign. Inside, the restaurant exuded sophistication, a far cry from the usual pizza joints scattered throughout the city. In the open kitchen, a wood-fired oven stood as the centerpiece, its flames visible to thediners. The scent of freshly baked dough, rich tomato sauce, and melting cheese filled the air.
The walls were lined with shelves of aged wine bottles and framed photographs of celebrities who had dined there. Baran eyed the bottles of wine as they were led to a cozy corner booth with crisp white linens and flickering candlelight.
“Baran, I’d order us wine or beer with our meal, but in the state of New York, the legal drinking age is twenty-one. Did you know that?”
“No. It’s eighteen in Turkey and not all places enforce it. I drank at sixteen, but it’s very expensive.”
“I didn’t know that.”
“It smells so good in here.”
Darien nodded. “What kind of pizza toppings do you like?”
“Pepperoni and green peppers,” Baran said.
“Thin or thick crust?”
“Thin.”
The server took their order. “What do you want to drink?”
