Page 65 of Just Bromantically Invested

Sure enough, the location pops up on the original post, but I can’t even let free tacos being snatched from me bring down my mood.

I head for the address, a block over from Gas Works Park, and pull up to wait for the others. It doesn’t take long for them to get there, and their expressions range fromoh wellnext timetoI’m going to fucking stab someone for a free taco.

Xander’s wearing the latter, and I sling my arm around his shoulders.

“Taco breakfast is on me.”

“Really?”

“Yup.” I might not be able to tell them about Penn, but I can blame my good mood on Damien and the immediate pay jump in my future.

“I knew you loved us.”

That makes me laugh. “I shouldn’t have to buy you tacos to make sure you know I love you.”

“Of course you should. Tacos are the single greatest food in the world. There are memes dedicated to them. It’s indisputable.”

“There’re also memes dedicated to pineapple on pizza, and I assure you that’s heavily disputed.”

Xander wrinkles his little, freckled nose. “It’s an abomination, that’s why. It shouldn’t be disputed. It should be in the gutter.”

“I don’t know,” Émile says. “It adds a little extra flavor. That boost of something sweet.”

“Pizza should not be sweet.” Christian’s mouth turns down. “Who have I married?”

“Oh no, is this the start of our divorce era? You better prepare yourself because Elle won’t like that at all.”

Christian glares at him. “Or you. You wouldn’t like that either, right?”

Émile shrugs. “It’s suddenly apparent you have no taste, so would I be missing out on all that much?”

Christian huffs, and Émile slips his arm around my friend’s waist, almost sending them both toppling over.

“Oh, come on, love. We both know my love is eternal.”

“That’s better.”

“And that you don’t have money for a divorce lawyer. So I’m stuck with you.”

Christian goes to whack Émile’s stomach but slips on the grass instead.

Normally something like that would make Xander laugh, but he’s quiet under my arm.

“You okay, Z?”

“They’re really in love, aren’t they?”

It’s a weird thing to say. “They’re married, so I hope so.”

He takes a moment, like he’s chewing on his tongue. “I’ve been waiting for them to move out.”

That familiar panic hits me. “Move out? Why do you think they’re going to do that?”

“Because they’re a married couple, Émile’s rich and Christian’s career is going well, and they’re still living with five roommates.”

All the exact thoughts I’ve had going through my mind.

“Gabe left us,” Xander whispers. “It’s only a matter of time before the rest of you do as well.”

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