“Already?”
“We leave in twenty days. We’re cutting it close.”
“Cool,” Mano said, his tone flat.
“We haven’t picked a hotel yet. We’ll start looking soon. Is there an area you prefer?”
“Why?” Mano leaned back in his chair. “Who said I’m coming?”
Ody blinked. “What? Why wouldn’t you come?”
Mano held his gaze. “Did you even ask the others if they want me there?”
“Of course I did.”
“And?”
“They want you there. Steve and Anna both do.”
Mano turned his head and exhaled. That was when he caught the two girls watching them. One smiled when he looked her way, her eyes drifting over his arms.
“You’re coming, right?” Ody asked.
A waitress appeared. “Good evening. What can I get for you?”
“Freddo espresso medium,” Mano said.
“Make it two,” Ody added.
Once she left, he leaned forward. “Well? You’re coming, right?”
“I told you, I’m not cut out for stuff like this.”
“Why not? You know everyone. And I’ll be there. What’s the problem?” His voice rose, his eyes fixed on him. “Unless you already made other plans.”
“Yeah, with all the friends I have,” Mano said, a dry edge to his voice.
“You’ve got us,” Ody shot back.
Mano dropped his gaze and picked up his phone, scrolling to avoid the conversation.
“Do you know why you’re alone?” Ody asked. Mano looked up slowly. “Not because people don’t want you. It’s becauseyoupush them away.”
The words hit Mano like a punch.
“I’m not pressuring you. If you don’t want to hang out with us, fine. I consider you my friend, and I wanted you there. Ifyou don’t, that’s your choice.” Ody’s tone softened, but there was weight behind it.
Silence stretched between them.
“You see it, don’t you?” Ody asked.
“See what?”
“That I’m trying to get close to you, and you won’t let me.”
“You’re the only one I’ve let this close,” Mano snapped. The outburst surprised even him. He looked away quickly.
“Then why won’t you come with us?” Ody asked, his voice soft.
