An Encounter for a Lifetime

Chapter 22

Kanan lay in bed that night. The conflict seemed like a distant memory-relieved that everything had settled down. He groaned as he realized he had forgotten to draw the curtains. Kanan was the type, unable to sleep if his windows weren't closed and curtains drawn. He returned to his bed, hoping to get some rest. Just as Kanan settled back under the covers, his phone rang, breaking the silence of the night. He reached for it on the bedside table and answered.

"Hey honey, Nathaniel greeted him warmly. "Or would you prefer to be called sweetheart or babe? Maybe a cute nickname: Kanibear, Nathaniel's Sugarpie."

"Nathaniel's sugarpie? Really?" Kanan teased, a smile playing on his lips. "Babe works just fine,"

"I miss you, babe," Nathaniel said. Kanan reciprocated the sentiment, even though it hadn't been long since they parted. "What are you up to?"

"In bed,"

"You're in bed," Nathaniel replied, his tone a hint of playfulness. "I wish you could cuddle up next to me right now," He confessed. "How was your day? Did you have dinner?"

"My day was great. Ayana cooked us dinner." Kanan enjoyed those simple questions. They made him feel valued and showed Nathaniel's interest in his well-being. "How about you?" Kanan asked. "Also, I should spend some time with Kaelan and Ayana. They came all this way but haven't been able to enjoy the trip yet. You should join us," He added.

"My day has been great," Nathaniel replied. "And I wouldn't want to intrude,"

"It's a well-deserved outing. We all should go on a trip." Kanan suggested.

"I'll let you plan the details," Nathaniel agreed. "Speaking of, Kaelan stopped by."

"That was his intention all along," Kanan sighed, realizing Kaelan's intention behind taking the car key. "What did he say?"

"He gave me that promised beat-down,"

"That-"

"I'm kidding," Nathaniel interjected. "He just told me how close you guys are and that I should take good care of you. Wishing Emily and me happiness from here on out." Kanan was relieved to hear that. "You have a good brother." Nathaniel paused. "I spoke with Gina," Kanan sat up in his bed. "Turns out I was scared for nothing. We're planning on meeting up one day."

"I'm happy for you," Kanan said. "Friendships are to be valued." He experienced the heartbreaking loss of his best friend- someone who was like family to him. Kanan held genuine happiness for Nathaniel and Gina, understanding the importance of treasuring friendship. That they could reconnect as it was something Kanan no longer had the opportunity to do. Kanan also understood that there are times when friendships become water under the bridge, but for Nathaniel and Gina, he saw it as a bitter loss. There was a lot that they had to say, emotions that they had to get across, and things only they could understand. "How's Gina?"

"She's doing good," Nathaniel answered. Kanan could hear the relief in his voice. "Kaelan invited me over for dinner with your parents?"

Kanan looked at his bedroom door, wondering how much Kaelan said. It was no wonder he was late bringing the ketchup home. "There he goes, ruining my opportunity to invite you for dinner with my parents."

"Did I say something?" Nathaniel said, acting confused.

Kanan noticed his attempt to erase the invite from his mind, resulting in a chuckle from him. "Nathan, would you like to join me for dinner with my parents?"

"I would like that," He answered. "But I'm feeling nervous already."

"Don't worry," Kanan assured him. "My dad has already been looking forward to meeting you. He even told me to invite you over before."