AllFreeNovel
Share Us
"I'm sorry, Cal" Charlie says between laughter, "It's in my nature as a bartender." he slurs.
I won't pretend I'm innocent, but at least I'm not drunk in the middle of the day, or I guess it's closer to the end of it now.
We're driven to a restaurant. It's pretty and moderately fancy. Crystalline light fixtures, and a black and brown color scheme. We're escorted by the host to a large table.
I ban everyone from getting another drink until we're back at the hotel. Someone has to keep these animals in check. I feel full as I look around at my friends decked out in our colors, including Scout, who's dressed similarly to Echo without the flag, only in rainbow.
"What are you smiling for?" Echo says, pulling me from my thoughts.
"I'm just happy" I say, "really happy."
Echo smiles too. "So am I."
Echo
Ever since I've decided to actually give Callum a chance I've felt bad about my lack of effort. He's trying so hard and yet, I've done nothing for him in return. For the future of us.
If that's to exist this needs to be a partnership.
Which is why I've planned us the most perfect date ever. Yes, I am perfect, the best kinda boyfriend in the world. No need for applause.
I rented us a pickup so we could have one of those truck bed picnics. I think Callum will appreciate it. Maybe it will remind him of home in Smart River, because get this; we're having the picnic by a lake. Lakes and rivers are the same right? They're both large bodies of water.
Whatever, I think he'll appreciate it nonetheless. I'm hoping the muggy Florida weather will be less harsh at night.
God, I need this to be perfect. I want to show Callum I'm really trying. And maybe we can talk about where this is going. I don't want to get ahead of myself— he's not even out—but I can't help but get excited at the thought of a future together.
I double check that everything is set for our date before I go retrieve Callum.
"Okay, we'll be back later." I say to Charlie as I fluff my hair once more.
"Remember to go to Callum's room when you're back!" he shouts on my way out the door.
Charlie is apparently scarred from walking in on us the other day. We were just making out, but he claims since getting to know us it's uncomfortable to see us doing anything remotely sexual. It makes me happy to know he considers us friends in that way.
"Knock knock." I say as I enter Callum's room.
"Hey baby, what are you doing in here?"
Baby. It makes my stomach flutter with butterflies. He's taken to calling me that lately, and I am not complaining.
"Get dressed. We're going out."
"Is there a dress code?" he asks as he stands.
I stare at him blankly. "You know damn well you don't have more than three outfits Callum Francis."
He chuckles as he pulls out his uniform from his suitcase "Well pardon me. What if you were taking me somewhere fancy?"
Another look.
"Yeah, okay. Nevermind."
Fancy places are usually reserved for major events and things we're sent to. I prefer quieter things, even if that includes ridiculous shit like renting out bars.
I still can't believe Callum did that.
I'd be fine with a night in. We both would, but he's committed to wooing me.
