Page 10 of Baran
“I’d love to. It will be my first one.”
“I have some ideas for us.”
“I really love your blue eyes and ginger hair.” Baran covered his mouth instantly. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to sound like I’m coming onto you. It feels like we’re on a date.” Baran looked down at his plate.
“Thank you. We are sort of on a date. I never date the guys at the shelter, but you’re different.”
“OK so a date without calling it a date?”
“Yes. You’ve only just arrived but I want to get to know you. After breakfast tomorrow, we’ll meet in the community room and begin our work. At the same time, we’ll get to know each other more.”
Later, as they made their way back up the stairs, Darien felt a deep sense of connection. His gut told him they were building something exceptional, a bond.
They walked to where Darien had parked the car and climbed in. “I had a fantastic day with you,” Darien said.
“I did too, thank you.” Baran leaned toward Darien.
Darien hesitated then asked, “Can I kiss you?”
Baran nodded. “I’ve waited all day for this.”
Their lips met in a tender kiss and the surrounding air filled with electric energy. Darien wanted more than a kiss, but he didn’t want to scare Baran. For now, he had to get him settled and them get to know each other.
“I’ll meet you tomorrow after breakfast.”
“Okay.”
They went their separate ways; Baran toward his room, and Darien to his office, where he found Miss Archer.
“You’re finally back. Only two declined the invitation, but will send checks for the gala,” she said.
“Thank you.”
“So, how is it going with Baran? This entire shelter is buzzing about it.”
“What? Damn, you can’t do anything around here. Just like living with family, I suppose. I took him skating. I wanted to find out what direction he wants to go.”
“And does he want to stay?” she asked.
“He does. I need you to email the Immigration Service and get an application for him. Send it to my email address. We’ll get that going, then I’ll have him apply to the local community college for his student visa.”
“Got it. I have to talk to the guys in room five. I’ll be back and get it started,” she said and left.
When Darien finished with his paperwork, he went home to plan the next day with Baran.
Chapter Six
Baran
Baran took his timewalking toward his room. As he considered the future, a hopeful energy surged within him, envisioning the possibilities for him and Darien. They had spent a perfect day together. His mind kept replaying the day’s events like a cherished reel. Gliding across the ice at Rockefeller Center, the chilly air brushing his cheeks, the dazzling lights of New York City enveloping them in a dreamlike haze. Darien’s laughter, warm and genuine, echoing in his ears, making his heart feel light and free for the first time in ages.
The shared pizza, their conversation flowing effortlessly, punctuated by stolen glances and shared smiles. Baran marveled at how perfectly the day went and how natural it felt to be with Darien.
Then came the moment that had left Baran in a daze at the end of the date. When Darien had leaned in and their lips met in that gentle, electrifying kiss. It was as if time had stopped. Baran felt a rush of emotions—joy, excitement, a sense of belonging he hadn’t experienced in what felt like forever.
This date meant everything to him—it was more than just a date, it was a glimpse of happiness. Baran knew he would always treasure this day, holding onto the warmth and promise that Darien’s presence had brought into his life.
When Baran opened the door to his room, Hawk was hunched over his suitcase and rummaging through his belongings. The sight of Hawk’s face, etched with lines of hatred, ignited a spark of anger within Baran.
