Chapter 5

Kanan stood outside the familiar store. Lately, an unusual nervousness had settled within him. He was always friendly and confident, but when meeting Nathaniel, a nervous shower took over him that ultimately washed away when facing him. To think that a drunken moment, an impulsive episode that set off a chain of events, resulted in an unexpected invitation to Nathaniel's house. Kanan was reluctant to accept his invitation, going as it would allow him to repay his small debt. When Kanan thought about it deeply, in retrospect, the repayment of his debt seemed to take on proportions larger than the debt itself. He didn't mind as he willingly embraced the agreement, and his current perspective on life sought novelty and the creation of memories through experiences he had yet to encounter.

While he waited, Kanan looked over his simple, casual outfit of tan shorts, chocolate brown T-shirt, and white shoes, his socks peeking out casually with a smiley face design. "Hey," a familiar voice chimed in with a warm greeting. "Did you get home safely?" It was Leana, the bartender.

"Yeah, I did," Kanan answered. Engaged in a brief conversation, they shared a few words and left with her niece in tow. As Kanan waved goodbye to Leana's cheerful niece, a car smoothly pulled beside him. The windows rolled down to reveal Nathaniel. His Brown ribbed knit sweater gave Kanan a shock.

"Hop in."

"Are you spying on me?" Kanan asked, closing the door behind him. "What are the chances that we both end up wearing the same color," Nathaniel's hair, once neatly combed back, now rested comfortably on his forehead. He paired his brown top with light grey pants, creating a neat look.

"I plan my outfits days in advance." Nathaniel joked. "I have to admit, it's quite the coincidence."

"Either we're on the same wavelength, or the universe is giving us a sign." They shared a laugh, turning what could have been an ordinary encounter into a moment of shared humor.

"I wonder what that could be."

"We just have to figure that out."

~~

The drive to Nathaniel's place turned out to be surprisingly short. Kanan couldn't help but be surprised by the proximity of Nathaniel's residence to his own. As he navigated the familiar streets, the houses gradually got bigger. They arrived upon the bold, well-crafted lettering declaring the community's name- Emerald Heights. The sign was a clear invitation into a neighborhood where simplicity met luxury. In the affluent sanctuary of Emerald Heights, grandeur was an everyday affair, from pristine lawns to mansions and expensive cars. Luxury wasn't a status; it was a lifestyle. Success filled the air, and every corner whispered tales of wealth woven into the fabric of daily life, creating a community where luxury was the norm.

Kanan was familiar with the neighborhood, having driven past a couple of times, each glance leaving him in awe. While he already had a hint of Nathaniel's status, the confirmation came without effort as he noticed Nathaniel's residence was in an upscale area. As they drove along the tree-lined avenues, Kanan glanced at Nathaniel numerous times, hoping for him to break the silence. He looked out the car window, taking in the passing homes. Each residence seemed like a testament to success, and he couldn't help but marvel at the elegance of the surroundings. They came upon a gate adorned with intricate ironwork, which swung open to reveal a sweeping driveway. A house came into view, displaying an architectural masterpiece. Large windows adorned the exterior, adding a touch of modern elegance that let in abundant natural light. The front yard, neatly landscaped, provided a peaceful backdrop.

"We're here," Nathaniel finally spoke. "Are you surprised by how close by I was?"

"I'm beyond shocked for many reasons,"

Nathaniel led Kanan up the stairs from the garage. They traveled the short entryway and came upon the living room. Kanan was met with high ceilings accentuating the sense of openness. Expansive windows stretch from floor to ceiling, casting a soft, natural light, and adorned with drapes that flow gracefully to the floor. It gave a view of the backyard's lush grass and a crystal-clear swimming pool surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs. A grand chandelier commands attention. Tasteful decor provides a harmonious blend of the neutral colors of the room. Rich, plush carpets complemented the gleaming marble floors. With each step, he felt his foot gently sink into the plush texture beneath. On the sofa laid five garment bags that piqued Kanan's curiosity as he took a seat upon Nathaniel's gesture.

"Make yourself comfortable," Nathaniel told him.

Kanan felt out of place. He felt anything but at home in the new space. While in awe, he couldn't shake the feeling that he might not fit into this upscale atmosphere. "Quite the house you've got."

"It's a bit too much, isn't it?" Nathaniel spoke, making Kanan surprised by his words. "Want me to get you anything to drink or...."

"Water is fine," Kanan replied. "The house looks great. I can't imagine living in a place this big by myself."

Nathaniel handed Kanan a bottle of water. "Exactly my point. I'm moving soon since living here was only temporary. The house was a gift, but I wonder if I need such a big space. I'm only here because-" He stopped himself.

Nathaniel's expression subtly changed, if only for a moment, at the mention of the house. Kanan couldn't grasp the unspoken meaning behind those words. In their newfound friendship, if one would refer to it as such, there seemed to be a limit to what could be openly shared. Nathaniel suddenly felt like a mystery that Kanan wanted to solve. What and who made him angry enough to lose his smile, the hidden truths he silently carried-Kanan wanted to know more about him.

"What led to the invite?" Casting away his desire, Kanan changed the topic.

"About the party, it's my mom's birthday, and she decided to go big this year," He said. "I got some suits for the occasion, and I thought it would be great if you could try them." He started to unzip the garment bags.

"If you told me, I would've gotten a suit for myself." Kanan couldn't help but feel uneasy at the gesture. "Are you trying to add to my debt?"

"Is that such a bad thing," Realizing his words, he faced Kanan. "The suits weren't expensive. If it makes you uncomfortable, consider extra towards repaying your current debt. These come with no strings attached. I just thought you'd look good in it."

"It's not about the cost; it's just that I wasn't expecting it." Kanan sighed. "I'll only wear it to the party, then I'm giving it back."

"Fair enough," Nathaniel displayed the five suits he had prepared: A timeless, elegant black suit with a tailored jacket, matching trousers, and a stylish waistcoat. A bold choice of dark green; the rich, deep hue stands out without being overly flashy. A clean, sharp navy blue suit that screams professional. A classic three-piece light grey suit, ideal for various events. Lastly, a brown suit that offered a distinctive and stylish choice. "I chose these suits based on my fitting, and it looks like our sizes and heights are similar from what I can tell."

Kanan got up, gliding his hands over the fabric, contemplating his selection as he examined them up close. "Have you decided what you're wearing?"

"I'll go with whatever after you've decided." He replied. "Though, I was leaning towards the grey one."

Kanan remembered how well-fitted the grey suit he wore to the cafe was. How it emphasizes his physique, creating a lasting impression. "I think this would look great on you," He put the suit on Nathaniel's body. "You can't go wrong with a classic black suit and a white dress shirt. Plus, three-piece suits equal sexy."

Nathaniel took the suit. "Do you talk like that to just anyone? It's been on my mind ever since the cafe."

"You exude good energy that I'm getting too comfortable," Kanan told him. "I may speak my mind, but I don't talk like that to everyone. If it makes you uncomfortable, I'll stop."

"I was just curious." He clarified. "Have you decided?" He quickly changed the subject.

"I'll go with the navy blue." Kanan took the suit up to examine it more.

"I thought you'd go for the dark green," Nathaniel said. He was seated on the armrest, eyes solely on Kanan.

"I was tempted,"

"I guess I lost," Kanan didn't know what he meant. "They would both compliment you either way. Let's see how it fits. There's a bathroom down the hall to your right."

Kanan followed his directions and arrived at the bathroom. Upon entering, the atmosphere captivated his gaze, and he couldn't overlook the array of makeup meticulously arranged on the countertop, along with hair ties. Kanan couldn't help but wonder if the owner of the items was perhaps Nathaniel's girlfriend. Despite the assumptions, he thought they might be for someone else, a family member, or a friend. Contemplating whether to inquire about it, he cast off, satisfying his curiosity and overstepping any boundaries.

He removed his clothing, thankful that he wore something easy to remove. A knock sounded at the door. "I brought one of my dress shirts to complete the look." Kanan cracked the door, collected the dress top, and thanked him because he planned to keep his t-shirt on. He fitted himself into the navy blue suit, adjusting the jacket buttoning and undoing it. As he stood before the mirror admiring himself, the deep hue complimented him.

It was time to show Nathaniel the look. He sat on the sofa waiting, the suits neatly on the side. He eased himself up when he saw Kanan. "You might end up stealing the show."

Kanan resisted the smile creeping up on him at Nathaniel's words. "I'll just borrow the limelight for a moment," He replied. "I do look good, though, but not that good."

"Want me to get a tie?"

"I'm not going to wear one." He ditched the tie, choosing a button-down look, a balance between sophistication and ease.

"Ok. With a few adjustments, it will be a perfect fit."

Kanan changed and rejoined Nathaniel in the living room. The scene remained captivating, even after spending several minutes immersed in it. Silence engulfed; the thought of leaving crossed Kanan's mind. What he came to do was done, but he still wondered if departing after trying the suit was the appropriate thing to do. He finally spoke, "Thank you," Despite the unexpectedness of it all, he wanted to show his gratitude.

"I was the one with the unreasonable request, " Nathaniel replied. "I should be the one thanking you."

"When is your mom's birthday party?" It dawned on Kanan that he lacked the crucial details for the upcoming party.

"This Saturday," Nathaniel informed him. "I think it was around 6 or 7 pm. I'll let you know before then."

"Have you bought a gift as yet?" Kanan had gifted his mother many things. On special occasions or simply seeing something that he thought she would like. Over many gift-giving, he realized that she loved the simple things best as long as they came from someone she loved.

"No," His tone was indifferent, hinting there might be more to the story. It was as if the inquiry had opened a door, causing his expression to change again. "I'll buy a gift tomorrow. If you're free, we can meet and get the suit adjusted as well."

Nathaniel was a mystery, a puzzle with layers of untold stories and complex relationships that he preferred not to reveal. And Kanan understood that not all stories are to be shared. He refrained from asking, only offering words of encouragement while staying on the surface. Their relationship was sudden and could end just as such. Kanan thought they could become friends and go beyond just a repayment. That was only his one-sided thoughts. He knew not what to expect after the party.