We could visit a sports bar and watch some of the game. As I ate, I watched the three dots twinkle at me.
Wren
Sounds good. How much homework do you have? Would you like to see a movie?
Oh, now that was a proper date. As a grin teased my lips, I said, “Wren wants to have lunch and see a movie.”
“Then I guess you’re going to Tempe Marketplace?” Malik drank his coffee.
“Yeah, guess so.” I tapped my fingers on my lips. Which restaurant was the best for dates? We’d already been to the sushi place.
“Dude, I know what you’re thinking. Take him to the ThirstyLion. They have big screens all around the bar, so you can see the games.” Malik tsked.
“I don’t want him thinking I’m watching the games and not focusing on him.” Plus, I knew myself. I could get caught up in football and not give him my full attention if I weren’t careful. “I’ll see if he wants to go to Barrio Queen.”
“That’s a cool spot. I went there once on a date. It’s a lot quieter than Thirsty Lion and the food is good.” Tex ate a bite of pancakes.
“Okay, that’s where I’ll take him.” Setting my fork on my plate, I texted.
Eli
How about Barrio Queen around noon? We can pick a movie while we eat. I’ll come and get you.
Wren
Sure. You know where I live.
“Guys, I have a proper date with Wren.” I held up my orange juice glass. “To second chances.”
Tapping their glasses on mine, Malik and Tex said, “Second chances.”
I leftthe dishes for Tex and Malik to wash while I showered and readied for my date. I wanted a clean-shaven face and body, just on the off chance we ended up in someone’s bedroom. After dressing in my best snug shirt and a pair of board shorts, I finished some reading for class and then drove to Wren’s apartment. I wanted everything to be perfect today.
I parked and strolled along the pathway to his place, the heat from the day coming on strong. When would it cool off? It feltlike fall was barely here. Knocking on his door, I tapped my finger on my thigh.
The door opened, and Grace stood in the entry, her smile reaching her blue eyes and her blonde hair tied in a high ponytail. “Eli, come in. Wren is still getting ready.” She rolled her eyes. “I think he’s shaving his junk judging by the amount of swearing going on in his bathroom.” She stepped aside.
“Grace, don’t tell him that.” Wren smoothed his white linen shirt as he padded into the main room. “Don’t listen to her.”
“Okay.” I chuckled. I’d done the same thing, hadn’t I? I’d given myself some nasty nicks in the past, but I’d been extra careful today.
As he stepped toward me, I leaned in for a quick kiss and squeezed his arm. “You look nice.”
Raking his gaze over me, his tongue swiped his lips. “So do you.”
“You two be good now and be home at a reasonable hour. You both have school tomorrow.” With a smirk, Grace plucked a book from their dinette.
“Yes, Mom.” Wren threw her a look and grabbed my hand. “Let’s go before she embarrasses me further.”
I followed him into the courtyard. “She’s sweet, Wren, and seems like a great friend.”
“Yeah, she is. I’ll miss her after graduation.” He sighed as we strolled to my car.
“What is she in school for?” I opened the door of my truck for him, and he stopped, giving me a once-over.
“She’s in school for business, and you don’t have to open the door for me.” Pursing his lips, he climbed inside. “Unless you really want to.”
Stepping to him, I said, “I want to. I’m trying to be romantic here. You deserve to be pampered.” I was still making up for what happened in high school. We both had to get over it.
