Finding Home at Randy’s (Diner Days)

Chapter 6

“ S o, how are you liking Boston?”

Luka shrugs and shifts on the sofa, acting relaxed, but I can still see the tension running through him.

He’s let his guard down some since Tori talked about her upcoming top surgery. I don’t know if he was even conscious of it, but I saw the way he wrapped an arm around his chest. It's something I’d seen other friends do in the past, both post and pre-op, a protective and self-conscious movement all in one.

The longer Tori and I are here, the clearer the picture becomes. Valery is always careful not to out anyone, but I know them well enough to know this little get-together was specifically organized for Luka—more than just introducing him to new people in a new city.

“It’s been good so far. Like Valery, I lived in a big city back in California, so while it’s vastly different in a lot of ways, it’s not like a total culture shock. Getting used to the feel of the city will probably take a while, but I’m sure I’ll get the hang of it soon enough. I haven’t done a lot of exploring, if I’m being honest. I’ve mostly been working, and the other day at Randy’s was the only time I’ve really gone out.”

“I’m low-key mad that you’ve already been to one of my favorite places,” Valery says. “But I swear, I’ll be a better friend and former almost cousin-in-law.”

Luka rolls his eyes. “We’ve already had this discussion. I understand you’ve been busy. I needed time to settle in as well. It’s fine. Promise.”

Valery makes a disbelieving noise, but they don’t say anything else.

“We can all go out,” Tori says. “Show you all the best places to get a drink, and see what type of trouble we can find.”

Luka gives her a small smile. “Sure. I’m not a big drinker, but I don’t mind going out and having fun.”

His body language doesn’t quite reflect his words, but seeing him at ease and willing to try makes me want to take him everywhere and anywhere he wants to go.

“We’ll have to do it before my surgery, because they said it'll be like four to six weeks of healing time, and that’s the only part I’m not looking forward to. Like, after my bottom surgery a few years ago, it freaking sucked . It’s hard to enjoy no longer having a dick when your new vag aches.”

“Admit it,” Valery tells her, “You were just mad that you had to wait a while for sex.”

Tori sticks her tongue out at them. “Maybe, maybe not. I’m just saying. I’m not looking forward to the healing time, though I am freaking excited to have something to shake besides my ass on the dance floor.”

Val and I laugh, but I notice that Luka tries to disappear into the corner of the sofa. His cheeks are almost as bright red as his hair, and it’s kinda adorable.

“I can show you around. Not to bars or clubs, or any of that, if you’re not into it. But there’s plenty of galleries and stuff. Or there are lots of markets we can check out.”

“That sounds good,” he says. “I wouldn’t want to take up your time, but if you maybe gave me a list of your favorites, I could check them out when I have time?”

“I can do that, but it wouldn’t be a hardship spending time with you, Luka,” I assure him.

Tori snickers but I ignore her, content to pretend that did not come out as flirty as it sounded. I’m not hitting on Luka, not really. I can admit he’s adorable, with his red hair, easily flushed skin, hazel brown eyes, and pretty lips that would look good kiss-swollen. Not that any of that matters, though. I’m not looking for anything, not when I don’t even have the balls to admit I might have a crush on someone else.

I know what people think when they look at me: outgoing, everyone’s friend, Denver. They would be the last person to ever get nervous around a good-looking, kind, and thoughtful man. People would be wrong, though.

Confidence and extrovertism only go so far when it comes to something or someone that matters.

I can make friends with just about anyone, but a meaningful relationship? That’s so much harder.

“Only if you’re sure.”

I grin at him. “Positive. I’m always up for making new friends and finding something to get into.”

Luka’s smile is hesitant, but there’s a lightness to his eyes that wasn’t there earlier. It fills me with a fuzzy feeling knowing I can affect him like that.