Reunited Underneath the Lantern Lights

Chapter 22

Luca and Theo sat across from each other at a nearby coffee shop, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air.

The warm sunlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on their faces. Luca couldn't help but smile as he sipped his cappuccino.

"This place is nice," Luca remarked, his eyes sparkling with genuine joy.

Theo nodded, his lips curling into a half-smile. "Yeah, it's alright," he replied, his eyes scanning the menu disinterestedly.

"What are you planning to order?" Luca's eyes sparkled with curiosity as he waited for Theo's response. Theo shrugged, glancing up from the menu.

"I guess I'll go for a simple black coffee," he said, his voice casual.

Luca chuckled. "That's a good choice. I'll stick with my cappuccino, then."

Theo nodded in agreement, and he both signaled the waiter.

"You're going to leave me alone next week, Taya," Theo pouted.

Luca sighed, his gaze drifting to the swirling patterns in his latte. "I know, Theo, but it's just a short trip. I'll be back before you know it."

Theo slouched in his chair, a mock frown on his face. "Who's going to tolerate my sarcastic remarks and adventurous schemes while you're away?"

Luca playfully nudged him. "I'm sure you'll find someone. Maybe a stray cat or a talking parrot."

Theo perked up at the playful suggestion. "A talking parrot? Maybe it can mimic your cappuccino order."

Luca laughed, "Who knows, it might become a regular at this coffee shop by the time I get back."

Theo leaned back, a sly smile playing on his lips. "Well, maybe the parrot can keep me entertained since I won't have to endure your constant chatter for a while."

Luca raised an eyebrow, surprised by the hint of sarcasm in Theo's tone. "Hey, I'll have you know that my 'constant chatter' is what makes this relationship interesting."

Theo shrugged, taking a sip of his black coffee. "Sure, Taya. I'll be eagerly waiting for the thrilling updates from your little vacation. I'm sure they'll be riveting."

Luca shot Theo a playful glare. "You're just jealous that you won't be the center of attention for a week."

Theo smirked, his tone laced with mock indifference. "Oh, I'll manage somehow. Maybe I'll throw a party for the coffee shop regulars, and they can regale me with tales of their more exciting lives."

Luca chuckled, sensing Theo's teasing had taken a turn. "You'll miss me, even if you won't admit it."

Theo raised an eyebrow. "I'm not denying it. We're usually together every spare moment and now you're leaving for two weeks. I mean, we just started dating a couple of weeks ago, but still."

Luca gave a soft smile as he went to caress the side of Theo's face, "it won't be that long. It'll pass in the blink of an eye, and I'll be back before you even realize I'm gone."

Theo leaned into Luca's touch, a subtle warmth spreading across his cheeks. "Well, you better come back with stories to tell, or else I might start thinking that parrot at the coffee shop is more entertaining."

Luca chuckled, his thumb gently tracing patterns on Theo's cheek. "I promise, I'll bring back the most exciting stories, just for you."

"You better text me, Taya. Send me a couple of messages per day," Theo said, his voice filled with sadness.

"I will, my love. I'll send you updates every minute if you want me to," Luca said as he leaned in and gave Theo a kiss on the forehead.

"I'll hold you to it, Taya."