The Charm Offensive

by Alison Cochrun

You know, I think this is the best practice date I’ve had.” Charlie doesn’t tell Dev it’s the best date he’s had, period.

“Do you think Angie is a better fit for him?” Jules sighs and reaches over to scratch his arm. “Sure, Dev. That’s what I think.”

There's this river in egypt...

“So… that’s Dev, huh? He’s kind of cute.” An irrational stab of jealousy lances through him. “He’s gay, Parisa.” “I didn’t say he was cute for me.”

His sober brain wants to memorize every detail this time, so when Dev pulls away again, he’ll have something to hold onto, something to remind him it was real. That once, he kissed someone he liked, and they kissed him back. Even if it’s only for practice.

“Are you asleep?” he asks into the dark. “It’s been three minutes, so no.”

Dev was holding his hand in public, and some things are too spectacular for fear.

“I don’t think happily ever after is something that happens to you, Dev. I think it’s something you choose to do for yourself.”