Chapter 3
Although Ryker had eagerly arranged to go out on one of the more expert trails with Alejandro that morning, now that the time had come Ryker couldn’t believe the way butterflies took flight in his stomach. It’s not a date. It is not a date.
Stoically ignoring the wide grin which never left Mitch’s face, Ryker made sure he had everything in his backpack that he’d need to a day’s hike. It had been his hope that his friend would care more about sleeping in, than getting up early to see him off. I should have known better. Mitch is loving this.
“Got all the supplies you’ll need?” Mitch’s grin was nothing short of evil and Ryker shook his head.
“That kind of supply isn’t necessarily going to be needed. But I always keep a stash at the bottom of my bag. You know I’m not a casual kinda guy.”
“I do.” Mitch rested a hand on Ryker’s shoulder. “To be honest, there’s just something between you and him. Don’t know what it is. But it’s there.”
“He is different.” Ryker stared at his bag. Despite his normal reticence for casual s*x, he was already more than half convinced that if Alejandro asked, he’d agree. “But who knows? He may just have a naturally flirtatious personality.”
“Don’t try and kid yourself, bro. remember Janelle, the leggy blonde? I heard from one of the guys that she’s batted her lashes, and a few other feminine bits and pieces, and he was all professionalism. No flirting. There’s no way you can say that in your case.”
“No.” Ryker shook his head. “I can’t. But I don’t want to move too fast either. I’m not an easy lay.”
“I didn’t get the vibe that he was a bedpost notcher. Just go, have fun, don’t overthink anything, and enjoy all that happens. Okay?”
“Yes, Dad.” Ryker laughed and hugged Mitch hard. “What are you doing today?”
“If the waves are good, I’ll surf for a while. I’ve also booked a scuba dive. Thought we could do something together tomorrow. Depending on how today goes for you.”
“Sounds awesome. Enjoy.” Ryker hefted the bag onto his back and took a deep breath. “Right. Here we go.”