The Way of the World

Chapter Three

Do you know that feeling when you realize that someone you trusted lied to you? Tricked you. That jolt of realization and nervous energy that flows through you? You can practically feel your trust shatter into pieces as your mind fogs up with denial and empty promises. That heavy weight on your chest? That's your heart being crushed just by the idea of being betrayed. But, if you're very very lucky, that trust can be rebuilt. Maybe the wall will never be as strong as before, but it's still there, and it's still protecting you.

~••••••••••••••••••••~

Grim and Will walked inside quietly. They stood shoulder to shoulder, waiting for someone to come and take them to their table.

"Just you two?" Somebody asked sharply from behind the two. Both Grim and Will spun around to face the older waitress.

"Umm, yes, just us. We have a reservation at six — fifteen," Will muttered, watching the woman as she walked over to the old, outdated computer.

After a moment of searching she said, "Grim Lambert and Will Ronderay?"

"Yes, that's it," Grim spoke up, smiling at the waitress.

"Right, then. Follow me, please," The waitress muttered, turning on heel and striding towards a table in the middle of the restaurant.

The two men shared a sheepish look and followed her as she cleared a way towards their table. The waitress tossed down two menus, as well as two pairs of silverware wrapped in cloth. Will cleared his throat as Grim sat down and nodded his thanks to the woman.

"What do you want to drink?" She asked, her voice softer than expected.

"Umm, I would like a water and a glass of the Pinot Noir, please," Will said smiling up at the lady but not quite making eye contact. The wine was probably a bad idea. Now he'd have to get a soup or something else that was incredibly cheap for his actual meal. Oh well.

"I would like the same," Grim said, his voice low and his eyes twinkling as he made eye contact with the waitress. All Will could think about was how bright they looked in this artificial lighting.

"Alright. I'll be out with that in just a moment," She muttered, turning around and stalking off towards the kitchen.

"Wow," Will breathed quietly, clutching at his hands harshly. "She was pleasant." Grim chuckled from across the table looking at the menu.

"I assume you're being sarcastic?" The raven haired man asked, glancing up.

"Yes. Very." Will laughed awkwardly. The menu was more expensive than even he'd expected. He was going to have to get a soup, most definitely, everything else was out of his budget.

While Will was busy with the menu, Grim removed his jacket, leaving him in his white button-up and navy vest. Will glanced up to say something, but the words caught in his throat as he looked at Grim. The man was just . . . breathtaking. Will had been on a date with plenty of people, but the way Grim made him feel was completely new. He'd known the man for hours, and yet . . . and yet he was this infatuated. Two days ago Will would've immediately denied being anything other than straight; he was really starting to question that now.

Will, however, wasn't being as sneaky as he thought. Grim noticed the redhead watching him, and yet he took it as a good sign. He looked up slightly, catching Will's tired eyes. Grim caught his breath and choked on his typically smooth words a bit.

Well, at least they were as awkward as possible together.

"So, what are you thinking about ordering?" Grim finally asked, breaking the tense silence.