Officer Downey

Part 23 - The Good, the Bad and the Jealous

Last week, something surprisingly good occurred. It had been one of those unexpected evenings where plans fell apart and new ones spontaneously came up. You had ran into Mike in the parking lot of your building, both of you returning from a quick errand. What started as a casual chat soon turned into a hangout at the guys' apartment. The two of you ended up ordering takeout, sharing stories, and enjoying a good time together.

When Robert returned to the apartment, you were prepared for some awkwardness because of your recent complexities. The first look you exchanged was really one that made your heart stop momentarily, your guess was because of fear. Fear of his reaction. You thought that your presence in his apartment would potentially make him feel uncomfortable, but you for sure were mistaken.

Yes, the first few moments were more mechanical and cold, but it was only until you were sure that there was no bad tension between you. Then, he joined you and Mike in the living room and dived into the rest of the food with you. Rain was the forth presence in the living room, mostly being around Robert but from time to time she approached you and Mike for some extra bites of food.

The evening progressed with surprising ease. You found yourselves laughing over jokes naturally and discussing the latest happenings in each other's lives. The initial awkwardness faded, replaced by a sense of fondness that you hadn't felt in a long time as a trio. It was as if the complications of the past were set aside, allowing you all to simply enjoy the moment.

Now, you were looking forward to tonight even more. It felt like ages since all four of you had gathered like old times. You had met with Hope and Mike individually for casual nights but not with all of them together. This is why you were extremely happy when you all agreed to meet tonight. The plan was to hang out at your apartment and enjoy the night with social drinking and, most importantly, a joyful and stress free atmosphere.

As you set out some snacks and drinks, the doorbell rang. You opened it to find Hope standing there with a bottle of wine in one hand and a wide smile on her face. She's always the first one to arrive, even now that the guys literally live next door.

"Hey! I come prepared" she laughed, stepping inside.

"I can see that" you laughed, hugging her.

Not long after, Mike and Robert arrived together, carrying bags of takeout and a couple of six-packs. Mike, as always, was in high spirits, while Robert looked relaxed.

"Hope you guys are hungry" Mike announced, setting the bags on the counter.

"We brought enough food to feed an army" Robert added with a chuckle.

"Perfect" you said, helping to lay out the food. "Let's get started"

The evening kicked off with easy conversation and laughter. You all settled into your usual spots around the living room, the familiar setting making it feel like no time had passed since you last gathered like this together. The atmosphere was exactly what you'd hoped for—light-hearted and filled with the coziness of being with your friends.

"To us. For finally finding time to enjoy nights like this" at one point, Hope raised her glass.

"To us" everyone repeated, clinking glasses.

You felt a swell of gratitude as you looked around at everyone. Despite everything, you were sure that you were surrounded by people that you love and love you.

"You ever notice how our building's elevator music is always the same three songs on repeat?" Robert asked randomly.

"Yes! It's like they want to drive us slowly insane" you groaned desperately.