Page 8 of Forever and Always #1
DARKE
S unlight streamed through the bedroom window, casting a warm glow on my face. A smile crept across my lips as I remembered the events of the previous night. The thrill of asking Bobby out still lingered, a sweet anticipation that filled my morning.
As I swung my legs over the side of the bed, reality began to sink in.
Today was the day. The date. A wave of excitement and nervousness washed over me.
It had been too long since I’d ventured into the dating world, and the prospect of spending an evening with Bobby was both exhilarating and terrifying.
I started my morning routine, my mind racing with possibilities. What would we talk about? Would the conversation flow smoothly, or would awkward silences dominate the evening? Despite the uncertainty, a sense of hope and anticipation filled me.
My phone buzzed on the counter, interrupting my train of thought. I grabbed it, hoping it’s Bobby. Disappointment washed over me as I saw Mike’s name on the screen.
MIKE: Hey, Darke. What’s up? You’ve been quiet lately.
His message was short and direct.
Mike had been my partner since the beginning of my career. We’d shared countless laughs, tears, and close calls. I trusted him implicitly.
ME: Sorry there, Mike. Been caught up with work and maybe boy looking?
Mike’s response was immediate, his enthusiasm palpable.
MIKE: BOY LOOKING?! Spill the beans, Darke! Who’s the lucky guy? And don’t give me any of that ‘it’s none of your business’ stuff. I’m your partner, remember?
I chuckled. Mike had a knack for cutting straight to the chase. I’d confided in him about my sexuality early on, and his unwavering support had been a cornerstone of our friendship.
ME: It’s Bobby, the guy I gave a ride to the other day. We’ve been texting, and I asked him out tonight.
Mike’s reply was enthusiastic.
MIKE: Whoa, nice work, dude! I knew you had it in you. You’re going to need some advice, though. Meet me at the coffee shop at 2 pm.
Relief washed over me. Having Mike’s support meant the world. As I finished getting ready, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this was the start of something special.
* * *
The coffee shop was abuzz with the usual midday chatter, but the moment I stepped inside, my focus narrowed to one table. Mike was already there, two steaming coffees waiting patiently. His familiar presence was a comforting anchor in the swirling vortex of anticipation.
Mike, a seasoned veteran of the force, had a weathered look that spoke of countless night shift patrols and tense standoffs. Yet, there was a warmth and humor in his eyes that belied his tough exterior. He was the kind of friend who would have your back no matter what.
As I approached, he rose to greet me with a hearty side hug. “Ah, Darke, my friend! You look nervous. That’s a good sign.” His voice was a steady, reassuring presence.
I returned the hug, a silent acknowledgment of his keen observation. “Hey, man,” I replied, my voice a touch higher than usual.
We settled into our seats, the aroma of coffee filling the air. Mike pushed a mug towards me. “So, tell me everything. What’s the plan for tonight?”
I took a sip, the warmth spreading through my body. “I was thinking we could keep it casual, get to know each other better. See where things go. I don’t want to push it if he feels uncomfortable.”
Mike nodded thoughtfully, taking a sip of his coffee.
“Solid plan. But let me tell you, Darke, this guy’s got you hooked.
I can see it in your eyes. You’re excited, and that’s great.
” He leaned in conspiratorially. “Here’s what I want you to do: be yourself, have fun, and don’t overthink it.
And for God’s sake, don’t talk about work unless he asks. ”
I chuckled, feeling a weight lift off my shoulders. “Got it. Anything else?”
A mischievous glint appeared in Mike’s eyes. “Yeah, one more thing. If things go well, don’t forget to text me. I want all the details.”
A shared laugh filled the air as we exchanged a fist bump. “You got it, partner,” I replied.
Mike’s laughter lines deepened as he grinned. “That’s the spirit, Darke! Now go out there and show Bobby a good time. And remember, be yourself—unless you can be a more charming version of yourself. Then be that guy.”
I stood up, feeling a surge of confidence. “I’ll do my best.”
As I turned to leave, Mike’s voice echoed behind me, “Hey, Darke! Don’t forget to wear your best ‘I’m a catch’ smile!”
I shook my head, a smile playing on my lips. With a renewed sense of purpose, I stepped out into the bustling world, ready to face whatever the evening held.