“Lots of people do, but they still cheat.”
“I’m not one of those people.”
Mano locked eyes with him. “Yeah. I’ve noticed. Ready to leave? I’ve got studying to do.”
“Yeah, same.”
After paying, they headed to the bike. This time, Ody wrapped his arms around Mano’s waist without being told.
“I’m gonna go fast. Prepare.”
“Don’t!” Ody exclaimed.
Mano laughed. “Relax, I’m kidding. What’s your issue with speed?”
They reached Mano’s building fast. “Come on, scaredy-cat,” he teased, unbuckling Ody’s helmet and pulling it off.
Ody glared. “Don’t call me that.”
“I figured you’d be fine with speed since you drive. You’re chill with the car.”
“I don’t have an issue with speed. Don’t call me scaredy-cat.” His tone was firm.
“Fine.” Mano got off and headed toward the entrance. When Ody didn’t say goodbye, he slowed, then stopped. “Ody?”
“What?” His expression stayed tight.
Mano held his gaze for a moment. “Nothing.” He turned away and went inside.
The next morning, Mano threw himself into studying. He practiced pieces on his guitar, flute and violin.
The evening moved along until Ranya texted him, asking if he was still up for that drink. He told her to meet him at eight.
He arrived at the bar on his bike and waited outside. Five minutes passed before he saw her approaching.
“Hey there.” She smiled, her white top a stark contrast to her long black hair, her blue eyes catching the light.
She was beautiful. Exactly Mano’s type.
“Hi.”
“Ready to go in?”
Mano opened the door and stepped inside first. They found a table, and when the waitress came, he ordered a small beer.
“You don’t drink much?” she asked.
“I’m driving, that’s why.”
“And if you weren’t?”
“I drink normally.”
Their drinks arrived, and Ranya carried the conversation with effortless ease. Mano answered whatever he felt like answering and sidestepped anything personal with practiced precision.
Later, when they reached his apartment, he unlocked the door and stepped inside, with her close behind.
The moment it shut, he pulled her toward him and kissed her hard. Her top came off in one smooth motion. He lifted her, and she immediately wrapped her legs around his waist. Carrying her into the living room, he laid her down and took off his shirt.
