“Wow. You look insanely sexy in that shirt,” she said, sliding her hand across his chest.
“Are you ready?”
“Just putting on lipstick.”
Ody and Anna reached the lobby first. The other couples arrived soon after. Mano and Ranya were last.
“There they are,” Anna said.
Ody looked up from his phone. His breath hitched. Mano had never looked that good. The white shirt hugged his body, outlining his muscles just enough. His gaze ran from Mano’s chest up to his eyes. Mano was already looking at him.
Ody wore gray tailored pants with subtle stripes, white shoes, and a fitted shirt.
The four of them walked to the car and settled into their seats. He typed the restaurant’s address into the GPS, as light music filled the quiet car. The girls in the back chatted, while the two boys in front stayed silent.
They parked and met the rest of the group at the entrance. The restaurant had large glass windows overlooking the sea and the glittering lights of the island.
They sat at a long table and Mano took the seat next to Ranya, directly across from Ody. The two of them exchanged the quickest glance before Ody looked down at his menu.
Light chatter filled the table while they waited for their orders. Ody kept sneaking glances at Mano, who pretended not to notice but felt every single one.
“Mano, do you work out?” Antony asked, drawing the table’s attention.
Mano leaned back in his chair. “I used to do kickboxing and Krav Maga. Now I just hit the gym.”
“It shows.” He gave him an impressed look. “How often?”
“Depends on my schedule. Four to six times a week.”
“Weight lifting?”
“Mostly weight lifting and calisthenics.”
“Do you have a personal trainer or work alone?”
“Alone.”
“Do you really see Mano working with others?” Steve asked, smirking.
Mano shot him a sharp look.
“Why not?” Antony said.
“You’ll see. Give it a few days,” Steve replied.
“Steve,” Anna said gently, giving him a small warning look.
“Come on, Mano doesn’t get offended. Right, Mano?” He leaned forward on his elbows, playful but pushing.
“Yeah, whatever,” Mano muttered, dropping his gaze to his phone.
Across from him, Ody watched the irritation flickering through his eyes. He knew that look. And Mano knew he was being watched. He lifted his eyes for just a second, meeting Ody’s.
Ody quickly looked away. “I’ll go wash my hands.” He stood and headed toward the hallway.
Mano stayed seated, not moving. He took a sip of water, checked his phone, listened half-heartedly to whatever Steve was saying. Only when enough time had passed did he push his chair back.
“Where are you going?” Ranya asked.
