Top Secret

by Sarina Bowen

“So I asked what was going on next weekend, and Jako said it was your birthday.” Luke still doesn’t answer. “So I thought, hey, he’s got this weekend off, so maybe I’ll surprise him with an early birthday thing,” I finish lamely. The discomfort I’m feeling is nothing compared to the intensified version of it I see in Luke Bailey’s eyes. Hoo boy, this was a bad idea, all right. I didn’t expect him to jump up and down with joy, but I didn’t think he’d be this put off by my efforts. “You planned a weekend away to celebrate my birthday,” he murmurs. I gulp. “Yeah.” “What else did you plan? What exactly are we doing this weekend, along with boning on that huge bed.” He gestures vaguely to the California king. I meet his eyes. “Tonight we’re having steaks at the hotel restaurant. Tomorrow afternoon we’re going to a craft beer festival in Mystic.” He nods slowly. “Okay. And?” He knows me well. “Uh, Sam Smith is playing at Mohegan Sun. I got us tickets,” I mumble. The seats are front row, center. But I don’t mention that. He’d probably do the math, figure out the ticket prices, and have a nervous breakdown.