Page 64 of Witch's Promise

"Right, of course," Sean muttered, running a hand through his hair. "Uh, did you want coffee or something? I was just about to make another pot."

"Coffee sounds great," Gabe said, following Sean into the small kitchen. "But maybe save it for later. I've actually got plans for us today."

Sean paused in the act of reaching for the coffee pot. "Plans? Shouldn't you be, I don't know, investigating Riley or something?"

Gabe leaned against the counter, close enough that Sean could smell his cologne – a spicy, woodsy scent that made his head spin. "Technically, I'm still on leave. Lucas practically shoved me out the door this morning, said they'd handle things for now and that I needed to 'get my head on straight.'" He made air quotes around the last part, rolling his eyes fondly.

The casual mention of Lucas sent an irrational spike of jealousy through Sean. Before he could stop himself, he blurted out, "Are you and Lucas together?"

Gabe's eyebrows shot up, and for a terrifying moment, Sean thought he'd massively overstepped. But then Gabe threw his head back and laughed, the sound filling the small kitchen.

"Me and Lucas?" Gabe managed between chuckles. "Gods, no. He's my best friend, my partner in crime. But we're way too different to be compatible like that."

The relief that flooded through Sean was almost embarrassing in its intensity. "Oh. Good. I mean, not good, but... you know what? I'm just gonna shut up now."

Gabe's expression softened, a hint of something Sean couldn't quite identify flickering in his eyes. "You don't have to be jealous, Sean. There hasn't been anyone serious since... well, since you."

The admission hung between them, heavy with implications. Sean's heart raced, hope and fear warring for dominance. He wanted so badly to believe that they could have a second chance, that he hadn't fucked things up beyond repair. But the ever-present voice of his guilt whispered that he didn't deserve it, that he'd only end up hurting Gabe again.

Gabe must have sensed Sean's inner turmoil because he cleared his throat, changing the subject. "Anyway, finish up whatever you need to do. We've got places to be."

Sean latched onto the distraction gratefully. "Oh yeah? And where exactly are we going?"

Gabe's grin was equal parts mischievous and fond. "I'm taking you on a date. Like the good old days."

Sean's breath caught in his throat. A date. With Gabe. It felt surreal, like something out of a dream he'd given up on long ago. "I... are you sure? I mean, with everything that's going on..."

"I'm sure," Gabe said firmly. "Look, I know we've got a lot to work through. A lot of hurt and misunderstandings to deal with. But I meant what I said last night, Sean. I want to try. To see if we can build something new.”

Sean's stomachgrowled audibly as they pulled into the parking lot of a familiar restaurant. He blinked in surprise, realizing he hadn't even noticed how much time had passed. The ride over had been a blur of nervous energy and stolen glances at Gabe's profile.

"Hungry?" Gabe asked, a teasing lilt to his voice as he cut the engine.

Sean felt his cheeks heat. "Guess I forgot to eat breakfast. Too busy freaking out about, you know, everything."

Gabe's expression softened, concern replacing amusement. "How are you feeling, really? About all of this?"

The question hung in the air between them, heavy with implications. Sean swallowed hard, forcing himself to meet Gabe's gaze. "Honestly? I'm fucking terrified. Part of me is waiting for you to come to your senses and realize what a massive mistake you're making by giving me a second chance."

He half-expected Gabe to pull away. Instead, Gabe reached across the center console, taking Sean's hand in his own. The warmth of his skin, the gentle pressure of his fingers, sent a jolt through Sean's system.

"Hey," Gabe said softly, his thumb tracing soothing circles on Sean's palm. "Let's not worry about the future, okay? The only thing we need to focus on right now is what's happening in this moment. We're here, we're trying. That's what matters."

Before Sean could formulate a response, Gabe lifted their joined hands to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to Sean's knuckles. The simple gesture sent a wave of heat coursing through Sean's body, settling low in his gut. He shifted in his seat, suddenly very aware of how tight his jeans had become.

Gabe's eyes sparkled with mischief as he noticed Sean's predicament. "Well, well," he murmured, voice low and teasing. "Good to know I still have that effect on you."

Sean groaned, equal parts embarrassed and aroused. "Fuck off," he muttered, but there was no heat behind the words. "You got better looking with age. It's not fair."

Gabe's laugh, rich and warm, filled the car. "Come on, let's get some food in you before you pass out from hunger. Or other, more interesting reasons."

As they made their way into the restaurant, Sean couldn't help but marvel at the familiar facade. "Holy shit, is this-"

"Bella Notte?" Gabe finished for him, a proud grin spreading across his face. "The very same. I can't believe it's still here after all these years."

Memories flooded Sean's mind – two broke teenagers pressing their noses against the glass, dreaming of the day they could afford to eat at the fanciest Italian place in Salem. It had become a running joke between them, a shorthand for all their hopes and dreams for the future.

"How did you even get a reservation?" Sean asked as they were led to a table by the window. "This place used to be booked solid for months."

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