Caleb
Can we… do something before I go?
Like actually go out? Not just be in the condo or my dorm?
I want… idk… A normal date?
Like we’re a normal couple who does normal shit.
My heart does that annoying warm flood thing, like somebody poured honey in my ribs.
Miguel
You asking me out, pretty boy?
Caleb
Don’t make it weird.
Miguel
Too late.
What are you thinking? Dinner? Walking around the wharf? Me winning you a stupid stuffed animal and then complaining it was rigged?
Caleb
Dinner sounds good.
Somewhere kinda nice? I want to see you in something that’s not covered in drywall dust and sin.
Miguel
Wow! Suddenly someone’s very demanding.
Be at the condo at 7, unless you want me to pick you up?
Wear something that would make your dad’s blood pressure spike if he ever sees the pics.
Caleb
I’ll meet you at home.
And normal clothes. Got it.
Miguel
Exactly.
I pocket my phone when Leo calls my name.
But the rest of the day moves a little smoother. Every time I hit a snag in the wiring or a breaker does something funky, I think: dinner date. Caleb laughing in something tight and soft with my hand on his knee under a table.
By the timeI get home, I’ve got less than an hour to shower and pull myself together. The condo smells like nothing yet because I left it clean this morning. I turn on some music,La Cruz, low and jump into the shower, scrubbing off the day. Drywall dust, sweat, and the metallic tang of copper wash down the drain.
Afterwards, I stare at my closet for a solid minute. Work hoodies and flannels I don’t mind ruining. T-shirts from old bands I’ve seen live. A couple of button-downs that my mom bullied me into buying for “real occasions” like weddings and church functions she’d drag me to. My fingers land on a dark green button-up that makes me look a little more put together and a pair of black jeans that actually fit right.
When I’m done, I barely recognize myself for a second. Hair down and tamed, no hat, facial hair trimmed to perfection, tattoos peeking from rolled sleeves. I look like the version of me I might have been if life had gone sideways a little differently.
