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“None. I was a foster kid. I aged out four years ago, and I’ve been on my own since.”

“Sorry.”

I shrug. “It is what it is.”

I finish off my sandwich and smirk at him. He grins and shoves half of his sandwich in his mouth.

I polish off my French fries and lean back in my seat, smiling victoriously.

He groans good-naturedly.

“I think I might get dessert,” I joke.

Luca passes me the menu to look over the options as Ruby returns.

“Do you guys need anything else?”

“Nah, we’re good,” I answer.

Luca shakes his head. “She wants dessert. One of each, please. And I’ll take the check when you get a chance.”

“You’ve got it.”

“You didn’t have to do that,” I say as Ruby disappears to grab my desserts and the check.

“I wanted to. Maybe you’ll take it easy on me next time.”

She comes back with everything boxed up and hands the check to Luca, who passes her some bills.

“See you guys later,” she says, giving me a meaningful look. “Let me know when you want to grab that coffee.”

“I will,” I promise.

I turn back to Luca. “Is there going to be a next time?”

“Sure.”

“When?”

“What are you doing right now?”

I grin. “I’m going to the grocery store to pick up a few things.”

He feigns surprise. “What a coincidence.”

“You’re going shopping, too?”

“Yep.”

“Okay, so what’s the bet?”

“Let’s see who can find the coolest item in the store,” he suggests.

I nod. “You’re on.”

I follow Luca out of the diner. He’s not who I had in mind when I thought about meeting people in town, but I can’t say I’m upset that he’s my first friend here.

“Now, about this bet,” I say as he glances at me. “What does the winner get?”