Chapter 10

There was a shift. A few days had passed since the beach outing, and Nathaniel had noticeably opened up. His increased frequency of texts and calls to Kanan was a change he welcomed; His worries about not staying in contact after the party seemed needless. The extension seemed promising for the continuation of their friendship.

"You're a great cook...but failing in the baking department," Kanan said.

"I can't be perfect," Nathaniel chuckled on the other end. "I can promise you a great meal with some burn cookies for dessert. I'll follow the recipe, but the result is anything but."

"I'm no professional, but I can offer you some lessons." Kanan offered. "My grandma taught me a thing or two. I can't have burnt cookies after delicious food." Growing up, Kanan found himself drawn to his grandmother's old recipe book, which was now his mother's. He would spend hours looking over the pages, imagining the enticing aromas and flavors.

One day, Kanan decided to try baking one of the recipes. With determination and a sprinkle of beginner's luck, he carefully followed the instructions, measuring each ingredient with precision and mixing the batter with care, his grandmother offering guidance in between. The kitchen filled with the scent of vanilla and cinnamon that traveled through the house as the cookies took form. His family gathered around to sample his creation. The cookies were a hit. Encouraged by their response, Kanan's journey as a baker began. Weekly, he experimented with different recipes that his family enjoyed. At some point, his weekly baking ended, but his passion remained true.

"We'd make the perfect duo. You handle the baking, and I do the cooking." Nathaniel responded. "I'll take those lessons, though I can't promise to make you proud."

"Now that I think about it, how do I know you're the best chef out there," Kanan stated. "Toast and eggs don't tell me much."

"I can make you dinner," Nathaniel offered. "What do you say? This Saturday? I could cook for you, and you teach me how to bake. A nice little dinner, just you and me." His words filled with uncertainty as he spoke, afraid of the possibility of rejection.

"We could do that. We haven't seen each other in a minute."

"Also, if you don't mind, I was hoping you could stop by the store this evening. I'm looking for some company."

"I'll stop by," Kanan promised before glancing at his buzzing phone. "Sorry, I'll have to call you back. My dad's calling."

"I'll text you the details."

The call ended. Kanan answered the incoming phone call. It had been a while since he last spoke with his father. Though they didn't have a bad relationship and were close, phone calls weren't a regular occurrence for them. The familiar tone resonated over the phone, "Kanan, How are you?" He said. "I've been meaning to call. Your mother called me. Is everything okay?"

Despite the end of their marriage, they maintained a respectable and friendly relationship that allowed open communication. It was just like Kanan's mother to continue to worry even after he said he was okay. "I'm fine. Better than I've ever been."

"I can tell by your voice. You sound happy." Kanan's days brimmed with new companions and joyful days, yet the concept of being happy never crossed his mind. Nonetheless, he found himself exuding an aura of enjoyment. "Kaelan did say that you found someone. Be sure to introduce them to the family. We could all gather for dinner." His father added.

Kanan couldn't believe his ears. Kaelan's playful disclosure had Kanan taken aback. "Just what is Kaelan telling mom and dad?" He thought. "Don't listen to a word Kaelan tells you. He's just a friend I made recently. He's a great guy, but we aren't dating."

"Kaelan thinks otherwise. Have at him when he visits," His father said. "He's stepped out for a bit, but I gave him some items to pass onto you when he stops by." He pondered why Kaelan hadn't arrived yet. His break had already started, and it shouldn't have taken him that long to reach Kanan's house. Then, considering he stopped at their father's house, it all made sense.

"He better be prepared when he gets here."

~~

The View, once distant from Kanan's world, became a familiar sight since meeting Nathaniel. Among upscale businesses, Kanan made his way to the store for their meetup. Earth's Harmony came into sight. Soft golden lights spilled from the window. As he stepped through the doors, the soft chime of a bell announced his arrival. Kanan couldn't help but be captivated by the harmonious aroma. The air hummed with the melody of fragrances: each notes a sign of the herbs and spices on display-Shelves lined with glass jars housing calming teas and herbs.

Venturing further, he passed a plush seating area. With each step, he felt himself drawn into the tranquil embrace of the store. Minimalistic decor using natural elements such as wood, plants, and earthy tones created a harmonious balance between nature and modernity. Taking in the calming scents of lavender and eucalyptus that lingered in the air from the nearby shelf, Nathaniel revealed himself. "You're here,"

"I always wondered why you smelled like that," The scents of mint and citrus that followed Nathaniel were no longer a mystery.

"Do I smell bad?"

"No, I noticed the lingering scents from the store," Kanan replied. Nathaniel, normally put together exuding an air of polished professionalism, today he appeared different. His sleeves casually rolled up, revealing his toned arm. His usual crisp ironed shirt hung loose, untucked. A few buttons were undone at the top, adding a relaxed and sexy vibe to his demeanor. His hair fell in a touselled wave around his face, adding an effortless charm. "You look different."

"I took it easy today," Nathaniel told him. "Is my attractiveness down by 50%?"

"Are you fishing for compliments?" Kanan chuckled.

"Maybe I am," Nathaniel replied.

Kanan approached him, and the scents that filled the store hung tightly onto him. "It goes up by 50% when you do things like this." Kanan adjusted his rolled-up sleeves, bringing them down to their original position, covering his forearm once more. Kanan couldn't help but feel admiration whenever Nathaniel confidently wore suits. Something was alluring about having his sleeves rolled up. The sight of a well-fitted attire accentuating his figure sparked a subtle fascination. To Kanan, it wasn't just the attire but the aura that accompanied it that added extra layers to his handsomeness. It was an irresistible magnetism that drew his attention time and time again. "Don't do things that could cause trouble, Nathan."

He stopped Kanan, holding his hand in place, "What kind of trouble, Kanan?"

Kanan met his gaze. Recalling Emily's words, Kanan couldn't shake the notion that moments like these, filled with easy conversation and playful words, were indications of their chemistry. As he pondered further, he questioned whether there might be a romantic attraction to Nathaniel even in the slightest. The idea of dating wasn't entirely out of the question. Kanan wondered if this new-found contemplation resulted from their playful banter or was something deeper at play. Kanan pointed fingers at the conversation earlier with his dad, which prompted him to entertain thoughts of a potential relationship with Nathaniel.

"Something funny happened this morning," Kanan gently pulled away. "My brother, I don't know what possessed him, told my dad, and I'm guessing my mom too, that we're dating."

"Is that a bad thing?" Nathaniel asked.

"It's not, but I only mentioned you in passing the day after we first met. It's a far stretch."

"Hypothetically, would you date me or not?"

Kanan replied, "I think we could hit it off if we both had feelings for each other." His answer stemmed from the friendship they shared so far. Kanan understood that embarking on a romantic relationship entailed navigating different dynamics than a friendship. There was a possibility that they could thrive as friends or fail in a romantic relationship. Besides, his feelings weren't in a place to think this deeply, yet he was.

"There's a possibility," Nathaniel replied excitedly, rolling his sleeves back up. "I'm closing the store-would you mind waiting a bit more?"

"Sure," Kanan looked around once more. "Is this your store?"

"Yes and no. It was meant to be a joint operation, but now I'm the only one in charge," Nathaniel replied.

Then Kanan remembered Nathaniel's brother mentioning this store at the party. "That person must mean a lot to you." He said.

"They do," Nathaniel closed the door that he emerged from earlier. His words stirred a complex blend of emotions within Kanan. He understood the significance of someone's presence in someone's life. He knew firsthand the depth of a connection existing between two people, but Kanan felt a subtle jealousy at those who played a significant part in Nathaniel's life. "A friend that's always there for you,"

"I had someone like that," Kanan responded. The thoughts threatened to cut through his veil of composure. He quickly changed the topic. "Ready to go?"

They left the store. The city transitioned from the hustle and bustle of the day into the night. The air filled with the sounds of distant traffic and the occasional chatter of passersby. "Let's get something to eat," Nathaniel said. Without waiting for Kanan's response, he seized his arm and tugged him along, urging him toward the car. With a gesture, Nathaniel signaled for Kanan to unlock his car. Kanan didn't mind; he welcomed the opportunity to have something to eat. They headed into town, leaving the upscale atmosphere of The View for the bustling streets of the inner city.

As they ventured into town, the streets filled with people making their way home after a long day. Street vendors lined the sidewalk offering sizzling street food, their voices a mixture of calls and shouting, offering crafts and clothing. Kanan felt a gentle hand slip into his own, guiding him through the crowd. Nathaniel stopped at a food stall, his option a surprise to Kanan. It had been years since Kanan indulged in this treat-a hot dog unlike any other with its unique toppings and special sausage. Nathaniel ordered two, anticipating their arrival despite the wait at the crowded food stand.

"I haven't had this in years," Kanan said. They moved to a less crowded area. The aroma was delightful. The taste was just as he remembered. "I didn't know you liked this,"

"How could someone not like this? Maybe I should've bought four," Nathaniel replied.

Kanan could eat another one-glancing at the stand, they decided against the wait. The food felt like it ended too quickly. "We should do this again," Kanan suggested, realizing the simple joys he was rediscovering lately-like going to the beach and having a flavourful hot dog-that he hadn't indulged in for years. He was thankful for his encounter with Nathaniel that led to these things.

"Wait here," Nathaniel rushed off, his destination already in mind. Kanan watched as he went to a nearby street vendor. Nathaniel pondered over his choice, stealing occasional glances at Kanan. As he returned, his hands concealed behind his back, a mischievous smile played on his lips. "Give me your hand." He requested with a playful tone.

Kanan, curious, extended his hand. Nathaniel gently took Kanan's hand in his own. He carefully slid the silver ring onto Kanan's finger. Speechless, Kanan felt a rush of emotions washed over him. He hadn't expected the gesture, which left him momentarily shocked. His heart pounded in his chest, cheeks flush as if announcing the impact on him. The world seems to fade into the background. Kanan met Nathaniel's gaze, searching for an answer to what this gesture meant.

"We match," Nathaniel said, showcasing his hand. Confronted by Kanan's silence and confusion, "You know," Nathaniel began softly. "At the store, when you mentioned someone who meant a lot to you, I felt like you understood me on a deeper level without needing to say anything. We both carry things we haven't shared, not because we don't want to, but because it's hard to open up. These were impulse buys, probably not the best option, but regardless of the challenges, let's be happy."