Page 37 of Baran
Darien sighed, feeling the weight of responsibility. “Alright, Baran. We’ll give him one more chance. But he’ll need to agree to strict guidelines and prove that he’s willing to change.”
Baran’s face lit up with gratitude. “Thank you, Darien. I really appreciate it.”
As he continued to eat, Darien felt a sense of resolution. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one. He knew that giving Hawk another chance was a risk, but it was also an opportunity to show compassion and support. In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of the kitchen and the comforting presence of Baran, Darien felt a glimmer of hope for the future.
Chapter Seventeen
Baran
Baran stood alongside Silasin the bustling ballroom of the hotel, the morning light filtering through the large windows, casting a warm glow on the polished floors. The room smelled faintly of fresh flowers and polished wood, and the soft murmur of voices filled the air as staff members and volunteers hurried to prepare for the art gala. It was a big event—a fundraiser for Rainbow Haven shelter—and Baran could feel the excitement thrumming in his chest.
Beside him, Silas was working quickly, arranging the white tablecloths on the long rectangular tables that were already placed around the perimeter of the room. The tables would be covered in vibrant artwork, ready for the high-profile donors who would arrive soon.
“This is gonna be huge, man,” Silas said with a grin, lifting a corner of the tablecloth to smooth it out. “I mean, it’s for a good cause, right? And there’s gonna be so many people here, some big names too.”
Baran smiled, a little breathless with anticipation. “Yeah, I’m pumped. And it’s nice to see so many people giving back. Rainbow Haven really needs the support, and this is such a cool way to help.”
Silas nodded in agreement. “Exactly. Art and charity. Perfect combo.” He straightened up and surveyed their work. “So, how’s it feel to be a part of something this big?”
Baran thought for a moment. “Kind of surreal, actually. I never imagined I’d be here helping set up for something this important.”
A soft laugh broke through the conversation as Daddy Darien appeared at Baran’s side, his presence a comforting warmth amid the sea of activity. He kissed Baran lightly on the cheek, a quick but tender gesture, before pulling back with a smirk.
“Looking good, love,” Daddy Darien said, brushing a lock of Baran’s hair away from his face. “How’s the setup going?”
“It’s coming along,” Baran replied, his heart doing a little skip whenever Daddy Darien was near. “Silas is keeping things moving.”
Daddy Darien’s eyes sparkled with amusement as he glanced at Silas. “I can tell. You look like you’re gonna have the room perfect in no time.”
Baran chuckled, brushing Daddy Darien’s hand briefly before they got back to work. “We’ve still got a lot to do,” he said, but the thrill in his voice was unmistakable.
Now and then, Daddy Darien would drift back over, offering Baran a kiss on the cheek or the lips, the soft connection grounding Baran in the chaos around them. It made him feel light and focused, as if, together, they could make this event go off without a hitch.
As the morning passed, the room slowly took shape. The tables were covered in crisp white cloths, each one arranged neatly, with vases of flowers at their centers. Baran, Silas, and a few other volunteers worked quickly to place pieces of art—framed paintings, sculptures, and photographs—on the tables, ensuring they were spaced just right to catch the light and draw attention. The artwork varied in style and theme, but the goal was clear: to raise money for the shelter.
Baran marveled at the way the art seemed to come alive under the gentle touch of the staff. Bright colors, abstract forms, and portraits that tugged at the heart filled the room, creating an atmosphere of creative energy that was palpable.
“Think they’ll like it?” Baran asked Silas, looking around at their work.
“Oh, they’ll love it,” Silas said confidently. “It’s all about the presentation. And with everything in place, this gala’s gonna be a hit.”
Baran nodded, feeling a wave of pride wash over him. This was just the beginning. Tonight, when the donors and artists arrived, the room would transform into a space of generosity and hope. And he would be a part of it.
As they put the final touches on the room, Daddy Darien leaned in once more to kiss Baran, this time a little longer, his lips warm against Baran’s. “I’m proud of you,” Daddy Darien murmured.
Baran smiled, a soft, satisfied grin spreading across his face. “We’re in this together,” he said, looking around the room, already imagining the evening ahead.
“I want you to take over Miss Archer’s position.”
“What happened to Miss Archer?”
“I fired her. It’s not just what she did to you. She has been overstepping her bounds into my private life. I think it was a crush, but I’ve had enough. Would you accept the job until school starts, then you can work part-time? The pay is good.”
“Yes, I’d love to.”
Hawk walked up to them.
“Baran, I want to apologize to you in person. Sorry, bro.”
