Just Sh*t: A New York City Story

Chapter 2: Forks and Follies

The guys decided to treat themselves to a nice dinner, a rare occasion given their usual penchant for takeout and late-night snacks. They agreed on a trendy restaurant in the East Village that promised an upscale experience. Each of them chipped in, pooling together what they had — a fair sum but not enough to break the bank. It felt good to indulge a little.

As they arrived, the atmosphere buzzed with energy. Elegant chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and the soft hum of conversation filled the air. Jackson, ever the pragmatist, pulled out his laptop and set it on the table, ready to finish up some work. "I'll just do this while we eat," he said, his focus already shifting to the screen.

"Real nice of you to join us, Jackson," Alex quipped, sliding into his chair. "You do know this is a dinner, not a meeting, right?"

"Hey, someone has to keep the finances balanced," Jackson replied with a smirk, barely looking up as he tapped away.

Jamie settled in next to Jackson, his phone vibrating almost immediately. He sighed as he glanced at the screen. "I'll just take this call outside," he said, his voice tinged with the anxiety that always came when he had to talk to customers.

As Jamie slipped out, Judah, Alex, and Ryan grabbed menus, glancing at the delicious offerings. "So, any dietary restrictions we should know about?" the server asked when she approached.

"None for me," Ryan said, grinning. "But I'm pretty picky about not having crayon shavings in my pasta."

"Do they even serve that here?" Judah asked, chuckling.

"Who knows? Maybe it's the secret ingredient," Ryan shot back, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

Alex chimed in, "I'm fine too. As long as it's edible, I'm good. Just no pineapple on pizza."

"That's a completely different meal, Alex," Judah pointed out, shaking his head.

"I'm just saying, you know how they get with toppings these days," Alex shrugged, smirking.

The server raised an eyebrow, amused by the banter, but kept her composure. "And you, sir?" she asked Judah.

"I'm easy. Just don't put anything weird in front of me," Judah replied with a mock-serious tone.

"Like what? Chocolate-covered crickets?" Ryan suggested, his eyes wide with faux horror.

"Exactly! I mean, who thought that was a good idea?" Judah laughed.

Ryan leaned back, enjoying the flow of conversation. "This is why I can't understand why I'm the one getting made fun of. I'm just here trying to enjoy a meal."

"Because you're too easy of a target," Alex said, winking. "It's like taking candy from a baby."

Their playful teasing continued until Jamie returned, a sheepish look on his face. "Sorry, guys. It was one of those calls. I thought it would be quick, but..."

"Did they ask you for your life story?" Ryan joked, and Judah snickered.

"Pretty much," Jamie replied, rolling his eyes as he took his seat.

"Next time, just start telling them about your insurance plan. That'll clear up the line real quick," Alex chimed in, barely containing his laughter.

As they placed their orders, the conversation shifted back to the menu. "What's the weirdest thing you've ever eaten?" Ryan asked, leaning in.

"I once tried escargot," Judah admitted. "I was convinced it would be fancy, but it just tasted like garlic butter. Who knew?"

"Sounds delightful," Alex said, a teasing grin on his face. "Are you sure you didn't accidentally order the crayon shavings?"

The server returned with their drinks, and as she set them down, Ryan asked, "What are our dietary restrictions again? I'm still confused."

"I thought we agreed we were fine," Alex said, laughing. "But now I feel like we need a whole PowerPoint presentation on it."

Judah found this absolutely hilarious, shaking with laughter as Ryan feigned serious contemplation. "Okay, but what if I have a rare allergy to, uh... enjoyment?"

"Then we're all doomed," Alex replied dramatically, clutching his heart as if he might faint.

Jackson couldn't help but glance up from his laptop, a small smile breaking through his usually serious demeanor. The camaraderie, the laughter, it was these moments that made all the mundane shit worth it. Even amidst the calls and work emails, they found a way to connect, to enjoy life in their little bubble.

"Hey, this is what life is about," Judah said, catching Alex's eye. "Just a bunch of friends, good food, and maybe a little chaos."

"Yeah, just shit," Alex said, raising his glass in a toast, a grin plastered on his face.

They clinked their glasses together, laughter echoing as they settled into the night, ready for whatever messy adventure awaited them next.