Page 13 of Last Date

“Calm down,” Thomas said, patting Merrick’s hand.

I felt a weird relief that Merrick wasn’t saying he was in love with Peter. Why would I begrudge him that happiness? When had I become so petty?

“Are you still fighting about Valentine’s Day?” Thomas asked.

Looking muddled, Merrick said, “Yes. Peter’s mad at me because he wanted to go to a fancy restaurant and get all dressed up on Valentine’s Day. I do that enough for work. I didn’t think he’d have a problem going to your house for a party.”

“I’m flattered you like hanging out with me,” Thomas said. “But I guess it’s not actually weird that Peter might want to do something more romantic on Valentine’s Day.”

Merrick leaned back, loosening his tie. “He wants a normal relationship.”

“Right.” Thomas nodded. “Which is… normal.”

“Normal. God. What even is that?” Merrick picked up his beer and gulped down a generous amount. He set the half-empty glass on the table with a bump, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand.

“Slow down there, big fella.” I eyed his glass.

He shot me an impatient glance.

“Look, all couples fight,” Thomas said.

I nodded. “He’s right.”

Scowling, Merrick muttered, “I don’t know why he’s being like this. He’s usually so cool about everything.”

“Peter is a cool dude,” Thomas shrugged. “But he has his limits, like anyone else.”

“Maybe you should just give him what he wants,” I forced myself to say. “If he wants a big fancy Valentine’s Day dinner, give him that.”

Sighing, Merrick said, “I hate that kind of stuff.”

Thomas watched his friend, frowning. “Well, relationships are about compromise.”

“Which is why I hate relationships,” mumbled Merrick.

I laughed and earned a scowl from Thomas. “What?” I grimaced. “I just think it’s funny he admitted that so openly.”

Thomas sighed. “Let me handle this, Kip.”

“Fine.”

“We’re supposed to be having fun.” Merrick rubbed his jaw. “Why is he suddenly getting all serious about stuff?”

“He’s at that age where you have to think about the future,” I said, frowning. “I guess we all are.”

Merrick shot me an odd look.

“Hey, I’m handling this, remember?” Thomas’ glance shimmered with annoyance.

I made a zipping motion by my lips.

“I have enough stress in my life,” Merrick muttered. “I don’t need it from Peter too.”

“Now, don’t overreact and ruin everything.” Thomas’ tone was uneasy. “You don’t want to do anything rash.”

Merrick curled his hands into fists. “No. I don’t. I just want him to be chill.”

“Communication is the key.” Thomas leaned toward Merrick. “Peter is a very reasonable guy. You two should have a frank talk later tonight.”