#fletchergoodman

Luke: {Text} We absolutely are as long as it's alright with you!

Tristan: {Text} Of course!

{Text} Meet you in front of the pawn shop in ten minutes?

Luke: {Text} Great! See you soon. :)

Tristan: {Text} See you soon :)))

Ten minutes later, Tristan was waiting in front of the pawn shop. Or rather practically bouncing in place in front of the pawn shop.

Luke: Luke hurries down the steps and out the door. "Tristan!" He calls with a grin.

Tristan: And there was that million-dollar smile.

"Hey, Luke!"

Luke: "How have you been?" He asks once he's approached the other.

Tristan: "I've been good. Hauling fish, getting my fingers pinched. You?"

Luke: "The average day." He smiles, "Good also, thank you."

Tristan: "Good. You ready to have the best breakfast ever?"

Luke: "I'm prepared to be blown away, it better not disappoint." Joking!

Tristan: Tristan chuckled and offered his arm. "Oh, it won't, trust me."

Luke: The arm is taken. "I'll rate it out of ten. I'll provide a detailed report."

Tristan: Another chuckle as they began to walk. "I look forward to it."

The bakery was a much shorter than the inn had been, being just a few blocks away just across the street from the town square.

The most heavenly aroma was floating out the door as people walked in and out, and a few of the tables were already occupied by people who'd had a similar idea to them.

Luke: "Mmm. It already seems delightful." He liked that there was a place like this, cute and nice for people to just enjoy themselves.

Tristan: "It is, especially the food. Laura's a genius."

He led Luke inside and up to the counter, where a pretty woman with red hair was sliding a fresh platter of muffins into the display.

"Morning, Laura."

Laura looked up and smiled. "Well, good morning, you two. What brings you in today?"

"We came for breakfast. This here is my friend Luke."

Luke: "Morning ma'am." he bows his head briefly, smiling at her. "I'll have whatever is recommended, I think. It all looks delicious."

Tristan: "It's nice to meet you, Luke," she said brightly. "Call me Laura."

"There's lots I'd recommend. Whatcha in the mood for? Sweet or savory?"

Luke: "Sweet, always."

Tristan: "How does maple pecan French toast sound? I make it with the brioche bread I make here."

Luke: "It sounds like nothing I've ever had before. I'd love it."

Tristan: "You got it. Any coffee or tea?"

Luke: "Tea would be lovely. Two sugars, no milk. Thank you."

Tristan: "Absolutely. Tristan?"

"I'll have that croissant sandwich you make and a cappuccino."

"Want sausage or bacon?"

"Sausage. And extra cheese."

"Got it. You guys pick a table, food will be right out."

Luke: "Where would you like to sit?"

Tristan: "Want to sit outside? Great view of the square."

Luke: "Sure." he starts to move out, taking in the decor as he did.

Tristan: Laura's bakery looked like a picture in a magazine with its gleaming display cases, pretty cafe tables, and baskets loaded with loaves of bread. The little dining area outside was no different. Here, too, were pretty cafe tables, along with plenty of shady trees and colorful pots overflowing with autumn flowers.

Luke: He finds a nice seat outside for the two of them and sits, getting comfortable and waiting for Tristan to join him.

Tristan: Tristan joined Luke a few moments later with their drinks.

"Sorry to keep you waiting. Here's your tea."

Luke: "No problem. Thank you." he cups the mug with his hands, letting it warm him up.

Tristan: "You're very welcome. What do you think of this place so far?"

Luke: "It's gorgeous. Which is to be expected now, when it comes to you taking me places."

Tristan: Tristan grinned. "Well of course. Can't be taking you to awful places."

Luke: He chuckles, "Of course! But is there a single awful place in this town?"

Tristan: "O'Charlie's bar. Never go there."

Luke: "Why not?"

Tristan: "It's...pretty gross."

Luke: "Ah. I'll keep that in mind." it sounded... scary.

Tristan: "Please do. It's the kinda place people describe in novels. Desolate bar sought out by desolate people."

Luke: "Oh, gosh-" he laughs, "do you read a lot?"

Tristan: "I don't get a lot of time to but I enjoy it."

Luke: "Do you have a favourite?"

Tristan: "I do. In the Heart of the Sea. True story about a whaleship that got shipwrecked. It was the inspiration for Moby Dick."

Luke: "Oh? I've heard of it but haven't read it myself. What do you like about it?"

Tristan: "I like that the writer didn't go 'here are the facts about this shipwreck'. He actually told the story, and he told it well."

Luke: Luke nods, "It sounds beautiful. I'll definitely read it one day."

Tristan: "You won't be sorry."

Luke: "I'll give you a rating on that, too. But be warned, I'm quite tough when it comes to novels."

Tristan: He chuckled softly. "I look forward to that one, too."

Luke: "Do... you have a least favourite?"

Tristan: "Any one of the novels I had to read in school."

Luke: "Purely because you were forced to?"

Tristan: "Pretty much. Plus they were all so boring. Reading The Lord of Flies was hell on earth."

Luke: Luke gasps and places a hand over his chest. "Lord of the Flies is MASTERPIECE! The metaphors slowly evolve with the plot, starting with cars and trains, concepts from the modern world and slipping into their primitive existence - and the way the boys connected! The way... human psychology is so fragile! It's an incredible novel!"

Tristan: "It was like being tortured! I remember sitting in Ms. Miller's English class and wishing for the sweet release of death so I didn't have to read one more chapter!"

Luke: "The novel is so short, too! It wasn't as though you were forced to read Great Expectations!"

Tristan: "Oh my god, Luke, I swear that's the longest novel I read in my life. I don't even think it was the book itself, Ms. Miller was just so bad at teaching it."

Luke: "Well I would love to take her place and teach you how to love it because it deserves your admiration!"

Tristan: "You might have to tie me to a chair. The memories." He shuddered. "They haunt me."

Luke: He hums. "I think my heart just broke."

Tristan: "Would your heart feel better if I told you that I actually read Great Expectations on my own and loved it?"

Luke: "... A little. It would be completely mended if you are able to quote from it." perhaps that's asking for too much.

Tristan: “The broken heart. You think you will die, but you just keep living, day after day after terrible day.”

Luke: Luke starts to smile wide, "I'm cured."

Tristan: "Good," said Tristan, smiling back just as Laura brought their food over.

"Here you go, gentlemen. One croissant sandwich with sausage and extra cheese for Tristan and one order of maple pecan French toast with a side of cinnamon butter for Luke. Ya'll enjoy."

Luke: "Ah, thank you." he sips his tea and hums in pleasure.

Tristan: "You're very welcome. Just let me know if you need more tea or another cappuccino."

Tristan: "Thanks, Laura."

"You're welcome, honey."

Luke: "Is she... a close friend of yours?" he asks once she's out of earshot.

Tristan: "Close enough. We've known each other since we were in diapers. Why do you ask?"

Luke: "The... little pet name."

Tristan: Tristan just stared at Luke for a good few seconds in utter confusion before it dawned on him.

"Ohhhhhhhhh, you mean her calling me 'honey'?"

Luke: He chuckles, "Yes, that."

Tristan: "It's nothing like that. She calls everyone honey or sweetie. It's a Southern thing."

Luke: "Oh," he nods, "I see. British people are very different.”

Tristan: "No terms of endearment for strangers?"

Luke: "Not for grown men, not really."

Tristan: "Must be weird to hear it now that you live here. Pretty much everyone does it, though when it's two men talking not so much."

Luke: "Mmm, isn't that a shame darling?" he teases.

Tristan: Tristan laughed. "Well, look at you. Gotta drop the 'g' though. We Southern folk don't hold much with that letter. Darlin'."

Luke: "... Darlin'." he attempts, feeling a bit silly and smiling to prove it.

Tristan: "There we go. You'll be one of us in no time."

Luke: "Ooh. Do I get to be in your secret club?"

Tristan: "Oh yeah. The special secret club of Edenton locals."

Luke: "It sounds like a magical place."

Tristan: He grinned. "It is."

Luke: "Especially if you're in it."

Tristan: "You give me way too much credit," Tristan chuckled.

Luke: "I give as much as you deserve."

Tristan: He smiled and ducked his head. "Eat your French toast."

Luke: He takes a bite. "Delicious."

Tristan: "Yeah? I've had her French toast before but not that particular kind."

Luke: "Please-" he pushes it closer to him.

Tristan: "You sure?"

Luke: "Of course!"

Tristan: Tristan took a bite and hummed appreciatively. "That's damn good."

Luke: "Damn good." He repeats with a playful smile.

Tristan: He laughed. "You catch on fast."

Luke: "Ah, you know how British men are. Always stealing other people's things."

Tristan: "And a sense of humor to boot. You're too good to be true, Luke Husher."

Luke: "Hardly." He laughs.

Tristan: "I mean it. If I was a teenage girl I'd call you dreamy."

Luke: "Oh, dear." He blushes, grinning. He has to look away.

Tristan: Tristan just smiled and ate his sandwich. "But since I'm not a teenage girl, I'll just buy you a pastry."

Luke: "Equally as flattering." He smiles bashfully.

Tristan: "What would you like?"

Luke: "Whatever you want."

Tristan: "Your pastry, your choice."

Luke: "Your choice of location."

Tristan: His brow furrowed. "Location?"

Luke: "Where we get the pastry from, you know better than I."

Tristan: He nodded toward the bakery. "Right here. Laura's also a pastry chef."

Luke: "I... Know but I mean it was your choice to come here. And you know this place better than me. You know what to get."

Tristan: "I do, but first, some questions. Gotta pinpoint the perfect thing for you."

Luke: "What?" He grins, "What kind?"

Tristan: "Do you like chocolate?"

Luke: "I love it. Do you?"

Tristan: "More than I should probably. White chocolate or dark chocolate?"

Luke: "I prefer the flavour of white chocolate, but dark chocolate does make me smile - more for sentimental reasons. Ronan's allergic to chocolate, and so when we were kids we'd play... the game where you tell one another to do something and more than once I told him to eat some chocolate." he laughs, "He never did, but that always meant I won."

Tristan: Tristan smiled. He loved those little stories about peoples' lives, seeing why they were a certain way or did certain things. It always felt like opening a treasure chest.

"I'll bet that annoyed him to no end," he chuckled.

Luke: "It did." his smile grows, "Especially since the winner gets to do whatever they want to the other person, and I once shaved Ronan's head."

Tristan: "Oh my god, are you serious? You shaved Ronan's head?"

Luke: "I did!" he laughs, "And I did a terrible job! His father was so angry, and he had to fix it by giving him an even closer shave. It was... pure curiosity, I wanted to know how he'd look. He was still beautiful which was very irritating for me."

Tristan: Tristan couldn't help but laugh. The mental image of Ronan with a shaved head was just too great.

"Oh man, it must've been one hell of a sight to see, even if he managed to pull it off. How long did it take for it to grow back?"

Luke: "Months, and since his hair is curly the majority of that time was spent with it looking quite awkward. Nobody dared say anything, though. He'd wear a hat most of the time too, if I remember correctly. It was a long time ago..."

Tristan: "Man, oh man." He laughed again. "I wish I could've seen that."

Luke: "I'll hold him down and you can shave his head." he grins, "Although I do feel like he'd be daring enough to do it on his own."

Tristan: "I can totally see him doing it. Most likely on a dare."

Luke: "We'll play with him one day." he sips his tea, "How about you? Do you still talk to your childhood friends?"

Tristan: "Pretty much every day. Comes with small town life."

Luke: "Anyone I might know?"

Tristan: "Well there's Laura. Pete who owns the pub and his whole family. Fletcher. Emmanuel who owns the bookstore."

Luke: "... Fletcher was your childhood friend?" something about him visibly lights up. "What was that like? I can imagine... him being very private and stoic."

Tristan: "Not a close friend, mind, but we were friendly. Always have been."

Tristan gave Luke a curious smile but gave look no mind. "Right on the money. He kept to himself a lot. Didn't even notice that Pete had a crush on him. Hell, Pete didn't notice either."

Luke: "Yes, at least I can't imagine him being rude." he's never been rude to Luke, so why would he? Oh. Pete. "Right. I... suppose it's sad when opportunities like that are missed. When people simply don't tell the other how they feel."

Tristan: "Some opportunities are meant to be missed I think. It's like my mom always says. If it was meant to be, it would've happened."

Luke: That didn't really comfort Luke. "It did happen, though. Not then, I mean. But... at least I think something happened between them last year."

Tristan: "Ah, yes. I heard about that. Proves my point really. Ended badly because it never should've started in the first place."

Luke: "Oh." so who hadn't heard about his boyfriend's time spent with someone else? He takes a deep breath. "Well, at least everyone can move forward. The upside to things like that."

Tristan: "Very true," Tristan agreed with a smile.

"On a happier note, I know what pastry to get you."

Luke: "Oh? What might that be?"

Tristan: "A little mousse cake. Chocolate and berries."

Luke: "That... sounds incredible, yes." he chuckles.

Tristan: Tristan grinned. "Excellent. I'm also getting you that fruit tart."

Luke: "Which we will split, I hope."

Tristan: That grin got bigger. "Absolutely."

Luke: "Wonderful." he bites into his food and drinks more of his tea.

"How is your food?"

Tristan: "Incredible. Laura makes the best croissants I've had in my life."

Tristan: "Want a bite?"

Luke: "Um... yeah, sure. Thank you."

Tristan: He offered Luke the sandwich.

Luke: He rips off a small piece with his fingers and puts it in his mouth.

"Hm. Mm - yes, it's definitely delicious. But mine is better." he smiles playfully.

Tristan: Tristan laughed. "I don't doubt that for a minute."

Luke: "I'm really glad you brought me here. I don't think this will be the last time I come."

Tristan: "I'm so glad you liked it. I'm starting to really like showing you all these places."

Luke: "Well I can't wait to know Edenton as well as you do. I appreciate it, really. The other people I know here... don't really have the time to show me around, so it's nice."

Tristan: He really should send Ronan a fruit basket or something for setting him up with Luke. He deserved it.

"Never been so happy to work fisherman hours in my life," Tristan said with a smile. "Their loss is my gain."

Luke: A basket of assorted alcohol would be better, but sure, fruit works.

"Hm." he smiles at him for a moment, "Such flattery."

Tristan: "No flattery, I mean it. I've had more fun with you this week than I have in ages."

Luke: "Oh," that sweetness is more than his heart can take, "that makes me... very happy, Tristan. I hope you continue to enjoy yourself."

Tristan: "Something tells me I will." God, it was so tempting to just lean over and kiss this gorgeous man, but no, he couldn't. Not here. There were people around and he didn't want Luke to feel embarrassed.

He was just going to finish his breakfast with a ridiculous grin on his face.

Luke: Tristan's smile so easily made Luke smile too. He liked the fact that they could eat in silence and, already, it wasn't uncomfortable or weird. He liked that Tristan was a relaxed, calming presence. It was as though the beach was embodied in this man. He looked like he was born from it, and so too did he act like gentle waves and soft sand.

Tristan: If Tristan knew what Luke was thinking he would've turned bright red, and it took a hell of a lot for him to turn bright red. No one had ever been so poetic about him, not even Callum all those years ago.

A few minutes later he was finishing off his coffee and sighing contentedly. "Perfect breakfast. I should come here more often." Hopefully with you.

Luke: Luke had finished his food, but was still comparing Tristan to the beach mentally, until Tristan's voice pulled him from his thoughts.

"But know that if you come here without me I will feel betrayed."

Tristan: He laughed softly. "I wouldn't dare come here without you."

Luke: "I hope so." he grins.

"Do you like poetry, Tristan?"

Tristan: "I do."

Luke: "I might give you an anthology. By William Blake. I think you'd like him."

Tristan: "Oh, I like William Blake. I'll take good care of it, promise."

Luke: "Oh! I - I'm sorry I'm not used to people knowing what I'm talking about." but Tristan had recognised the quote he had said, the books he had mentioned, the poetry. Ronan, you absolutely gem. "I trust that you will."

Tristan: "He's my mom's favorite poet. Well, besides Poe. She has a soft spot for Poe."

Luke: "I... find Poe intellectually engaging, but he's... dark for my taste. It's the same with Ginsberg. You don't seem much like a Ginsberg man to me."

Tristan: "Ginsberg..." Tristan repeated, trying to place the name. "I don't think I've read any of his stuff."

Luke: "Allen Ginsberg. No? Howl? Kaddish?" Hm. "The weight of the world is love. Under the burden of solitude, under the burden of dissatisfaction the weight, the weight we carry is love...?"

Tristan: Tristan was squinting into the distance as he thought. "Howl...Howl sounds familiar. I think I sat in on that lecture."

Luke: How did that one go again? ... "I saw the best minds of my generation destroyed by madness, starving... hysterical, naked?"

Tristan: "Yep, yep, I remember now."

Luke: "There's a film about him, actually. Kill Your Darlings, I believe it's called."

Tristan: "That sounds familiar, too. Don't think I've ever seen it though."

Luke: "I'd love to watch it with you sometime. It's not entirely accurate, but it's still beautiful."

Tristan: Tristan smiled. "I think we've got our next outing sorted. I could take you to my favorite lobster place and we could go back to my house and watch the movie."

Luke: "Hmm. I feel as though we're playing a dangerous game. Every time we meet we make plans for the next time to meet."

Tristan: "Dangerous or forward thinking."

Luke: "A bit of both?"

Tristan: "Yeah," said Tristan, chuckling. "A little bit of both."

Luke: "Did you want to go anywhere else today? I should head back before Fletcher has his lunch so that he can take a break."

Tristan: "Only thing I had planned was breakfast and pastries. Don't wanna get you in trouble for taking too much time off work."

Luke: "Ah, okay. Are you doing anything else today?"

Tristan: "Just some maintenance on my ship."

Luke: "Well I hope you have a lovely day, nonetheless."

Tristan: "Why thank you. Ready to get some pastries?"

Luke: "Absolutely!" More than ready.

Tristan: Tristan stood and offered his hand.

Luke: Luke forces himself to not blush and not overthink that. He takes the hand gently and stands.

Tristan: He didn't quite entwine their fingers, but Tristan did give Luke's hand a soft squeeze as he led him inside and up to the display loaded with beautiful pastries.

"Got any of those fruit tarts, Laura?"

"Which size?"

"The middle ones, CD sized. We're gonna share one."

"Yes, I do," she said, grabbing a box. "Anything else you guys want?"

Luke: Luke glances down at their hands, suddenly feeling very shy. That wasn't something he experienced often. He didn't know what to make of it. He didn't even think he and Fletcher did much hand holding.

"A... Chocolate and berries mousse cake, right?"

Tristan: Laura beamed at him. "Ooh, good choice! I have two kinds today. I have one with dark chocolate mousse and a chocolate sponge and one with both dark and white chocolate mousse with an almond sponge."

Luke: "They both sound lovely, but I'll have to go with the white chocolate." He grins back at her.

Tristan: "Excellent choice," she said, choosing the prettiest one with the most berries for him.

She placed it and the tart in the box and handed it over. "There you go. This going on your tab, Tristan?"

"Yes, ma'am."

Luke: "Oh- but- please. Allow me. You paid for our meal..." He gets his wallet out.

Tristan: "The pastries are my treat."

Luke: "Then I'll pay for the rest."

Tristan: "What are my chances of talking you out of it?"

Luke: "Absolutely none!"

Tristan: "All right then," he chuckled. "Guess we're going Dutch again."

Luke: "Yes. We'll be... going Dutch. I've never heard that before."

Tristan: "Really? Huh. Is it another American thing?"

Luke: "Perhaps I've just been living under a rock for far too long."

Tristan: "You? Never. You're smart and worldly."

Luke: "Ah... I may seem that way but I'm... I haven't experienced so many... basic things. I suppose I'm worldly in some ways, and not so much in others."

Tristan: "I think that's true for a lot of people," Laura said thoughtfully. "Even the most worldly person hasn't experienced absolutely everything."

Luke: "I suppose not. But I think we should experience as many beautiful things as possible."

Tristan: Laura smiled and handed him a receipt. "I couldn't agree more."

Luke: Checking the price he gives her a few extra for tip and smiles, "Thank you."

Tristan: "Thank you, Luke. Come back any time."

Luke: "Believe me I will." he laughs and turns to Tristan, "Shall we?"

Tristan: Tristan smiled. "Let's shall. Wanna cut through the square? You can see the gazebo."

Luke: Luke nods. "I'd love to." he offers his arm this time.

Tristan: He chuckled and took Luke's arm. "Look at you turning the tables."

Luke: "Can't let you do it all the time, can I?"

Tristan: He grinned. "Far be it from me to object. Lead the way."

Luke: And so he does, walking alongside Tristan.

Tristan: Despite the fact that it was a weekend, there weren't too many people up and about yet. The square was still and relatively quiet. The only real sound was the church bells tolling in the distance.

"Did you enjoy breakfast?"

Luke: The sound of church bells made Luke's chest feel warm. It felt safe, beautiful. It was so calming and serene. He couldn't think of a scene more picture perfect.

"I did," he grins, "did you?"

Tristan: It was picture perfect. It was like a scene out of a movie.

"I did," he said with a nod, smiling at Luke. "I know we've only been to two places but I always have a good time with you."

Luke: "I hope it stays that way." With a sweet smile the blond nudges him playfully.

Tristan: "I hope it does, too." Now. Do it now, his brain shouted. He couldn't have set a more perfect scene if he'd tried.

Smiling softly, Tristan brought them to a halt and leaned in to kiss Luke.

Luke: Luke's instinct is to check if Tristan had dropped something once he brings them to a stop. When he sees nothing and looks up there's no time to ask what was wrong. Tristan was already leaning in.

What was happening? A kiss on the cheek Luke wouldn't mind, so he doesn't automatically move away. He hadn't expected and could not have prepared for Tristan's lips to touch his own.

The blond's heart pounded and he was frozen. Didn't Tristan know about Fletcher? Did he even care about Fletcher? Ronan had told him. Right? Ronan had told him? Surely it was obvious.

Luke is still, too many thoughts racing through his head to act. Too shocked. Too confused.

Tristan would now be one of the very few people Luke has kissed.

Tristan: There was a second--one split, amazing second--where time stood still and everything in Tristan's life felt like it had fallen into place. He could taste maple syrup and cinnamon on Luke's lips, smell his skin and shampoo, feel the early morning breeze gently playing with his hair. All of his senses felt heightened, save for one.

When that beautiful second was over, Tristan realized Luke wasn't kissing him back.

He pulled away, confusion and concern coloring every bit of his expression. "Is something wrong?" he asked softly, gently.

Luke: Luke couldn't deny feeling a tingling of his own, but he put that down due to inexperience. He hadn't been kissed by very many people, hardly any really, so the experience was still new. And in a completely selfish and strange way... it was flattering. That someone like Tristan would be interested in him in that way. But flattery is one thing, and love is another.

"... Thank... you?" because how else does one respond to being kissed by a very lovely person? "I... Ronan..." oh dear. He swallows. "I'm with Fletcher..." perhaps Tristan had just forgotten and got carried away. He's never been in a situation like this. He didn't know how love and relationships went. This was all so new to him. Had he done the right thing? The wrong thing? How would Fletcher react? He didn't know what he was meant to do. He didn't want to hurt either of them, but he didn't know how that was possible.

Tristan: If Luke had stopped after those first two words, Tristan could've smiled. He could've laughed even, and taken this gorgeous, sweet Christmas angel of a man into his arms and given him the movie kiss he'd been imagining since that night on the beach when they sat admiring the stars.

But that wasn't what was meant to happen. Luke wasn't meant to stop after 'thank you' because the anvil had been waiting to drop since before they ever said a word to each other.

Tristan's brow furrowed. "You're with...oh, my god." He immediately stepped away from Luke, putting a healthy amount of space between them while he reeled and felt his face heat and probably redden with humiliation.

"Oh, my god, I'm so--I'm so sorry. I didn't mean...I didn't know that...Jesus." He rubbed his face with his hands. Why couldn't the ground just open up and swallow him whole? "I'm so sorry, Luke, I swear I had no idea that you...I thought...I'm so sorry."

Luke: "It- no, Tristan... I... I think Ronan..." Played a trick in them. Naughty Ronan. He should've expected something like this, really.

"N-no need to apologise..." He looks at Tristan's feet, unable to watch him as he spoke. "It's fine..."

Tristan: That was fine. Preferable even. Tristan couldn't look at Luke, either. He was never going to be able to look at Luke ever again.

"It's not, I'm so sorry I overstepped, I should've realized." God, he should have realized. No one was just roommates with their boss. No one got a fond, besotted look on their face at the prospect of hearing stories of their boss' childhood. That was ten kinds of insane.

And of course, the thought that Ronan had intentionally not mentioned Luke's relationship and let him believe this was a date never occurred to him. Ronan was his friend. He wouldn't do that to him.

Tristan shook his head. No, this was all him. Apparently after all these years he still couldn't tell when someone wasn't interested in him. He was a fucking moron.

"I'm sorry, I'll...I'll go. I won't bother you again, I promise."

Tucking his jacket around himself, Tristan turned to walk in the opposite direction.

Luke: "No Tristan, wait," he moves to be in front of him, "I'm sorry, Tristan. You are.... So lovely. I'm flattered someone like you would even... Be interested in me. You are beautiful and kind and smart, anyone would be lucky to have you. And... I understand if you feel like you can't continue our friendship but I would still like to. If you're willing. If you feel... comfortable doing that. I'm happy to give you space, but I hope that this... can be something we are able to overcome."

Tristan: Why did he have to be kind? Luke being kind about this whole thing made Tristan feel so much worse. He didn't know how that was even possible; his face was already so red and he was already so humiliated that he doubted he'd be able to look Luke in the face again.

Anyone would be lucky to have him. Yeah. He'd heard that one before, and here he was now, in the same position he'd been in then.

"I don't..." Tristan sighed. He didn't want to stop seeing Luke. He liked Luke. He was smart and well-read and...and kind. But right now all Tristan wanted to do was get away from him and wallow for a few days in his own damn stupidity.

"I can't right now," he told the ground. "I don't want to not...spend time with you but right now I...I need time."

Luke: "That's fine. I understand. You're... you're free to do so. It's been lovely getting to know you, Tristan. Really. I... wish only the best."

Ronan. Oh, he's going to tell that little Irish boy off.

Tristan: Tristan attempted a smile, but it fell very far short of its mark. He just didn't have it in him to reassure Luke right now. "Thanks. I've enjoyed getting to know you, too." More than I can say. "I'll see you later, Luke. Enjoy your pastries."

Luke: "Enjoy yours, too." Luke would remain still, allowing Tristan to leave first so that it doesn't feel like he has been left.

Tristan: Later on Tristan would appreciate that. For now, all he could think about was getting to the docks and sailing the Adriana back to his own dock and working on her there, away from everyone.

He'd get a beer, do what had to be done, and wait for Fletcher to come deck him.

Luke: Luke lingers for a moment before sending a text to Fletcher to let him know he's on his way home.

While walking, he then messages Ronan, telling him that he's in big trouble.

Ronan just laughs at that.

…………………..

Luke: Once he arrives at the shop he moves straight over to Fletcher.

"Hi, Fletcher. This... may be a big ask but would you be able to close up for lunch? I... have pastries."

Fletcher: Fletcher looked up from his phone and straightened. The look on his face was somewhere between compliant and confused.

"Sure. What's up? Just hungry?"

Luke: "Just... would like to talk to you without being interrupted."

Fletcher: "Uh... Did I just piss ya off?"

Luke: "No, no, nothing like that." he felt nervous. He squeezes the bag. "I'll be in the back, come when you are ready?"

Fletcher: "Yeah, sure..." He'd watch Luke's back until he was gone, then proceeded to lock up.

Luke: Luke set everything up in the back, made a comfortable space for the two of them as best as he could without messing too much with Fletcher's things. He would be stood, anxiously waiting by the time Fletcher came.

Fletcher: Fletcher slowly opened the door to the back and watched the reaper with careful eyes. "Ya alright?"

Luke: "U-um-" he swallows, "sit, please. Help yourself."

Fletcher: "Gonna sit with?" Was he about to break up? What was this odd behavior? Still, he did as told.

Luke: Of course. He sits down, but his attention isn't on the pastries. Eyes close momentarily.

"Something happened. While I was out with Tristan."

Fletcher: That immediately tensed his hands, arms, and shoulders. "What he do? I've known that man for years. He wouldn't - What he do? Did he touch ya inappropriately?"

Luke: "He... he didn't know about you. In that he didn't know I am... with you. Keep that in mind, please." he bites his lip. "He kissed me."

Fletcher: "... And he didn't know? How did - Why would he - " Oh, but then... "Did... Did you...?"

Luke: "He said that he didn't know. I personally didn't tell him. I don't know what Ronan has to say about that." leans on the table in front of them, "Did I what?"

Fletcher: "Did... Did ya... " He took a breath. This sounded ridiculous before it left his mouth but he needed to know. "Did ya... want it? Enjoy it? ... Kiss him back?"

Luke: "No. To any of it, no. It... perhaps I'm just so... inexperienced and... naïve that I didn't see the implications of how he was acting."

Fletcher: "That first date - night out - whatever, ya walked along the beach. I mean I shoulda known. I just wanted ya t'have some fun."

Luke: "How could... as in, we've never done that. Us and novels are all I have to go off of and I don't... I'm sorry, Fletcher. I should've known, I should've... stopped him. I hurt him because he didn't know."

Fletcher: "Don't they do that kinda shit in the novels ya read?" Both hands rubbing into his face couldn't stave the confusion and frustration.

"N'he didn't get mad at ya? Yell or - or try t'hit ya?"

Luke: "Friends do it in novels I read, too... I didn't see why people getting to know one another couldn't... it was right by the restaurant it seemed more natural than it maybe was." he looks away. "He kept apologising."

Fletcher: Slowly did his hands ball into tight fists. "Ya know whose fault this is. He's made it perfectly fuckin' clear he don't want us t'gether."

Luke: "I haven't even spoken to Ronan, it may be that he did tell Tristan and he misunderstood, or that... he just didn't think it was relevant, or... you can't just assume..."

Fletcher: "He didn't think it was relevant 'cause t'him I ain't relevant."

Luke: He rubs his arm. "I don't know what to say, Beautiful. I care for you a great deal. I would never hurt you. Not intentionally. I'm sorry."

Fletcher: Luke's hand was needed right now. He wanted to hold it and press it against his forehead.

"M'just relieved you're alright..."

Luke: Luke watches him. "Is... that... all? You aren't angry with me?"

Fletcher: "Ya - I mean..." He swallowed. "Ya sure ya don't want him? He's... Tristan."

Luke: "And you're Fletcher... my Beautiful love." He moves his chair closer and puts a hand on his thigh. "You're the only person I want."

Fletcher: Beautiful wasn't the word he'd put juxtapose himself. It was an insult to the meaning. This was just Luke being Luke. Naive didn't quite cover it. Hopelessly optimistic and maybe a little bit crazy. He had to be to be friends with Ronan for so long.

"...Ya sure?"

Luke: He leans in closer. "How can I prove it?"

Fletcher: "This ain't some test or somethin'. Just... Wanted t'hear it."

Luke: Luke raises from his seat only to push it back and lower to a knee. He takes Fletcher's hands.

"I'm sorry, Fletcher. I want only you. I'm sure of that. I care for you, for us, more than you can ever imagine. I'd be quite content with you not only being my first for a hundred things, but also being my last."

Fletcher: The mere image of Luke on his knees stirred something in Fletcher's stomach, a hot yearning which brought color to his ears. Illogically warm, he rubbed them, wanting to hiss at the contrast between burning ears and cold hands. Maybe there was hope for bravery. Maybe he could have his cake and eat it, too.

I might have the balls to ask for your hand someday. If you mean this...

"...Ya love me?"

Luke: Eyes close, for only a moment.

"Of course I love you. I love you to the very depth and breadth and height my soul can reach."

Fletcher: "Then...fuck what he tried t'do. It don't matter." Right? "We got this; we got each other. The rest don't mean shit."

Luke: Luke starts to grin. "I agree."

Fletcher: Arms needed to hold Luke by his waist. "Yeah? Say, "fuck everyone else" babe." Just to hear a curse.

Luke: Luke lifts to sit on his lap, kissing his forehead as he gets comfortable. He laughs. "F - no. I can't."

Fletcher: "Aw," he laughed, giving a squeeze. He couldn't help thinking how fucking adorable that was.

Luke: He grins, "It's too mean!"

Fletcher: "What? T'stop givin' a shit about other people's bullshit, or the word fuck?"

Luke: "To stop caring about everyone."

Fletcher: "Just when they try t'break us apart."

Luke: "Hm?"

Fletcher: "Fuck everyone else that tries t'keep us apart."

Luke: Does that include you when you try?

June: She laughed. "He just wants you to be healthy and eat more green things."

Fletcher: "I'll be fine. He ain't gotta worry n'I don't like kale."

June: "It's good when it's mixed with other things. I put it in one of those casseroles."

Fletcher: He made another face. "You're one of them."

June: June laughed.

"There's a ton of cheese in there, too. And chicken."

Fletcher: His smile faded as he dwelled on a thought. "Ya like him, Luke?"

June: "Of course I do. He's sweet and he adores you, what's not to like?"

Fletcher: "He's all that, I just don't get why..."

June: She walked over and kissed Fletcher's cheek. "He does. And I do."

Fletcher: "But ya know what I do t'relationships. Ya saw it first-hand."

June: June squeezed his hand. "This isn't the same situation. Whole different ballgame here, and from an outsider's perspective, it looks like it's going really well. You look so happy."

Fletcher: "I am..." and it scared him. She probably already knew that.

June: She did, which was why he got another kiss and squeeze. "He looks really happy, too. You should see the way he looks at you." She smiled. "I'd give anything for someone to give me the Gatsby look."

Fletcher: Fletcher turned into the kiss, his sigh one of peace. "The Gatsby look?"

June: "You know that bit in the movie where they say Gatsby looked at Daisy the way everyone wanted to be looked at?"

Fletcher: "I ain't watched em or read it."

June: "Oh my god, you have to. It's such a good movie."

Fletcher: "It's a chick flick, right?"

June: "Parts of it could be called chick flick-y. The rest falls under classic."

Fletcher: "Classics can be chick flicks. Just sayin'."

June: "True, true. Either way you have to watch it so you'll get how Luke looks at you."

Fletcher: "Is it... watchable with him next t'me? What about ya watchin' with us?"

June: June nodded. "Yep! I think he'd really enjoy it."

She brightened, nodding immediately. "I'd love to!"

Fletcher: Those bright eyes made him smile. "How 'bout this Sunday?"

June: "Perfect! My place or yours?"

Fletcher: "How 'bout yours? New experience for him."

June: "Done. I'll get popcorn and junk food."

Fletcher: Another smile. "He'll probably bring kale juice or somethin'."

June: "No kale juice allowed on movie day!" she chuckled. "Tell him it's house rules."

Fletcher: "I'll let him know," he chuckled.

June: "See that you do. Any requests?"

Fletcher: "Those croissant-wrapped lil sausages? Please. I'll being the mustard. They've been banned from the house."

June: June laughed. "You got it," she said with a nod. "Did he really ban them?"

Fletcher: "He frowns loudly by how often I ate em so I stopped."

June: "Aww," she chuckled. "That's sweet. And a little funny."

Fletcher: "So, anyway," he wasn't used to so much romance talk, "how's work been? Any mention givin' ya trouble?" As though he hadn't been watching.

June: "It's been good! A lot less trouble behind the bar, especially now that P--" She abruptly cut herself off and continued down a different path. "You still get the occasional moron but that's par for the course. It's a bar after all."

Fletcher: "...It's okay, June. Ya know how t'punch now." Of course he was back; of course he knew. He had no intention to delve into that.

June: Neither did she. The last thing she wanted was to make Fletcher talk about Pete. If he wanted to talk about him, he'd bring him up.

"I do know how to punch now, thanks to you." She grinned. "Guess what? I found a boxing gym in the next town over."

Fletcher: "There's one in town but it's pretty seedy." She probably already knew that. With Peter mentioned, his mind was trailing away.

June: "It is," she said, making a face. "It almost makes O'Charlie's look like a five-star hotel."

Fletcher: "Yeah, if ya told me ya were goin' there I'd probably be goin' with ya."

June: June gasped. "You should go with me!"

Fletcher: "But it's so far." I'm so lazy.

June: "Come oooooon. I'll drive."

Fletcher: "Fine, fine. I'll help with gas money."

June: "I'll pass it on to my sister Ruby. I've been using her car since I don't have the Caddy anymore."

Fletcher: "What happened t'the Caddy?"

June: "Uh...its owner returned."

Fletcher: "...Right. That. Thought Luke was watchin' it. I swear ya mentioned this..."

June: "Luke's got his own fancy car. I was looking after the Caddy after my dad made me get rid of my 'road hazard'," she said, making air quotes.

Fletcher: "Road hazard?"

June: "That's what he used to call my Honda. It was up there in years and issues."

Fletcher: "Need a co-signer for a car?"

June: June gave Fletcher a pleasantly surprised look. "You'd do that for me?"

Fletcher: "If no one else in your family will or can, yeah."

June: "You're such a good friend." June squeezed him to within an inch of his life. "I love you."

Fletcher: "Augh!" He groaned, laughter following. "It's just a car, Junebug. I got ya covered."

June: "It's more than that," she said, squeezing him more.

Fletcher: He held to her by her forearm. "What is it?"

June: "Just...the fact that you'd even offer. And mean it."

Fletcher: "Ya know others would offer."

June: "Yeah but that's my family. I know a lot of people but not a lot of people like you." She kissed his cheek. "I mean, you taught me how to throw a punch."

Fletcher: Why wasn't it Peter years ago? He was frowning. He tried to mask it, looking away and patting her arm. "Love ya, too."

June: "Hey." June gently took his face in her hands. "What is it?"

Fletcher: "S'nothin, bug."

June: "You can tell me."

Fletcher: "I can but we don't talk 'bout that."

June: She nodded, kissing his forehead. "Okay. But if you ever need to or just want to, we can. You can talk to me about anything, Fletcher. You know that, don't you?"

Fletcher: "Ya ain't gotta be that kinda person, honey. Ya deserve better than someone talkin' your ear off."

June: "I'd be one hell of a hypocrite if I spent all day talking people's ears off and couldn't take the time to listen to my best friend."

Fletcher: "Who was your best friend before me?"

June: "No one. Haven't had a best friend since middle school."

Fletcher: "Don't tell me that. Now we sound like kids."

June: She laughed softly. "There are worse things to sound like."

Fletcher: "I guess. Just...curious why someone didn't teach ya sooner."

June: She didn't have to ask who the someone was; his tone told her. "Short answer? I never thought to ask or think I needed it."

Fletcher: "That's not how our conversation went. I offered n'asked because it was obvious."

June: "I'm sure it was to him, too. Why do you think he got a reputation for yelling and throwing people out? It was because of me."

Fletcher: "He does a lot of that anyway."

June: "He's always yelled, sure. He's always broken up fights. But he never had to manhandle someone out the door until I started working there. And he wouldn't have had to if I'd had more self-respect and better taste."

Fletcher: The Samsa blinked. "Why ya sayin' that?"

June: She gave him a small, sad smile. "Because it's true. Self-respect and I are just starting to become friends."

Fletcher: "Why d'ya - It doesn't matter what kinda woman ya are, ya should be respected. N'he shoulda done better. He shoulda been good t'ya n'given ya the tools t'stand up for yourself."

June: "He tried, Fletcher. He drove me to the army surplus store once on my birthday to buy me a knife and I didn't let him. I lost count of all the times he warned me about men I dated and I never listened. He's been very good to me, he tried to do right by me. I just...I couldn't see the writing on the wall. So he started punching people."

Fletcher: "Why didn't ya take the knife?"

June: "I didn't think I needed it. Thought he was just being Pete, you know? Being overprotective."

Fletcher: "D'ya have one now?"

June: June nodded, smile a little happier. "Yeah. He gave it to me that following Christmas. Along with that." She pointed at the alarm panel on the wall.

Fletcher:

"Good." Knife, alarm, boxing. She was improving herself with defense. "Would ya be opposed t – never mind."

June: "No, tell me. Opposed to what?"

Fletcher: "Workin' at like... The Brig. I miss seein' ya."

June: "I miss seeing you, too. Why do you think I'm trying to make you go to the gym with me?"

Fletcher: "...Alright. Yeah. Then I'll... I'll definitely go."

June: "Yay!" He was squeezed and kissed yet again. "We're gonna be so ripped."

Fletcher: Now that he had to laugh at. "This physique doesn't get ripped. I tried in high school."

June: "Then we're gonna be in really, really good shape. We'll be able to run marathons."

Fletcher: "Alright. We'll see. Ready t'deck someone in the face for whistlin'? Ain't that what happens these days?"

June: "A whistle's nice every now and then. But if someone tries to grab my ass, they're going down."

Fletcher: "I'll be there cheerin' ya on, bug."

June: June beamed at him. "You always are. You deserve a cookie for it. Do you like chocolate chip?"

Fletcher: "What am I, a hound?" he laughed.

June: "If you were I couldn't give you chocolate chip," June said with a giggle.

Fletcher: "Ruff!" He laughed against her cheek before kissing it. "Muwah."

June: June giggled again at the kiss. Well that affection definitely deserved a gigantic hug. "I love you to death, you know that?"

Fletcher: "Mm," was a content little sound in response. "M'not worthy."

June: "You're the worthiest. No arguments."

Fletcher: "...Hmm."

June: "Ah, that was an argument. None of that."

Fletcher: Ah. He shook his head and laughed. "Weird kid."

June: "You love my weirdness," she said cheerfully. "Want some coffee with your cookie?"

Fletcher: "What, right now?"

June: "Sure! No time like the present."

Fletcher: "Uh...okay."

June: "Great!" She kissed his cheek. "I like fussing over you."

Fletcher: "I guess I spoil ya with reasons, huh?"

June: "Your existence is all the reason I need, sweetheart."

Fletcher: "Ugh. Stop with the diabetes!"

June: "Neverrrrrr."

Fletcher: "Tell me somethin' with less sugar."

June: "Um....Socks killed a rat?"

Fletcher: "Awesome," he smiled.

June: "It was waiting for me when I got out of the shower. I almost stepped on it."

Fletcher: "It was a gift. He thinks you're hungry."

June: "I know, and it would be super cute if it wasn't a rat and if I hadn't screamed. He brought me a cheerio later that day."

Fletcher: "Well, he saw y'all had different tastes," he laughed.

June: "He's a smart little cookie, I love him."

Fletcher: "He have anyone else to play with?"

June: "His brother, Mrs. Pennyapple's kitty. I try to go over there as often as I can."

Fletcher: "He don't mind the travel?"

June: "I think he enjoys it. I carry him in my jacket."

Fletcher: "You're a regular ol' Snow White."

June: "In looks at least," she said with a smile. "How's Creep?"

Fletcher: "Creep's still a Creep. Still can't tell if she likes Luke or not."

June: "She's a mysterious lady. I can't tell if she likes me either."

Fletcher: "She didn't even like her babies. I think they were her first."

June: "How old is she?"

Fletcher: "Almost ten? Shit, probably older."

June: "And these were her first babies? Damn."

Fletcher: "She's not an outside cat. She only purrs when I feed her and when she tries to smother me in my sleep."

June: June giggled. "Socks does the same thing. They want all the warmth."

Fletcher: "So, what d'ya wanna do now?"

June: "I say we eat and watch something ridiculous."

Fletcher: "Campy movie and greasy burgers?"

June: "You're a genius."

Fletcher: "I'll order the food, ya pick the movie."