Page 120 of The Forever Vault

“I’m not sure how I’m supposed to avoid excessive physical activity either.”

“It’ll be fine. I’ll help you take care of it.”

Luke and I each got matching platypus outlines on our biceps that, when we put our arms together, formed a heart. It was minimalist, or in Luke’s words, tiny, but it was very clearly a platypus.

And I loved it.

That was our first real date, and I would always remember that day.

“Let’s find Ty and Declan,” Luke suggested.

“I’m actually thirsty. Can we find a water fountain or head into one of the bars?”

“Sure thing,” Luke said, looking around. “Hole in the Wall or Driftwood?”

“Driftwood. Reminds me of Florida.”

The bartender ended up being really friendly. His name was Kelly. I shouldn’t have been surprised, because a friendly bartender makes sense. If he were grumpy then he wouldn’t make as much. He didn’t recognize us either, which was refreshing. It wasn’t that often we needed to explain who we were and what we did, especially when we were together. If someone didn’t recognize me, they usually recognized Luke, or vice versa. He also didn’t try to hit on us either. I’m assuming we gave off couple vibes, or maybe he wasn’t looking, or maybe we weren’t his type.

I took a few sips of Luke’s fancy cocktails, but for the most part remained faithful to my iced tea and water. I still had a few days before competition, and the tattoo would already push Noah’s buttons enough. I was just about to ask Luke if we should text the group, when Kelly asked if we were staying for lunch.

“I’m good with here if you are.”

"Looks like it, Kelly,” I answered.

While we were waiting for our food, I checked in on social media. Luke was way more active than me. Considering his contracts, it made sense. I kind of felt bad I hadn’t really cared much about it since arriving in California. At least USA Gymnastics had posted some photos of me. I hurriedly went through and liked various posts and comments, adding mine where I could.

“God, I feel like an ass.” I had missed so much.

“What for?” Luke asked, glancing over from…shirtless dudes…Instagram, it looked like.

“I don’t think I’ve looked at my profiles for a week. Having fun over there?”

“Like your feed isn’t the same thing, and why are you so worried? Lots of thirsty DMs?”

“Shut up! I haven’t even looked at those yet.”

I did probably have a few. Sometimes it was hard to tell between genuine fans, and people that wanted a dick pic.

Tyler: Where my bros at?

I texted him the name of the bar.

“You’re not a big social media person. Not everyone is.” Luke shrugged. “Anyway, I think people know by now that I’m the oversharer and you’re the mysterious one.”

“I’ve got your mystery right here, tiger.”

“Whoa there, big boy. Put that away. Save it for the stage.”

Of course, our food had to be delivered at that moment.

“Fuck, I’m sorry. I didn’t think anyone was around.” I could feel my face burning up and hear nothing but Luke’s laughter.

“Don’t be sorry. Looked like a work of art. I’m honored that you chose my bar to flash your penis in.”

“Yo-your bar.”

“What? I didn’t tell you I’m the owner.” Kelly winked. “You should come by on amateur strip night. Thousand dollar prize. Last Friday of every month. You’d win hands down.”