Page 64 of Baran
“We’ll all have to get together soon,” Andrei said.
“Yes, we definitely will and thank you for the generous donation to Rainbow Haven.”
“Any time. Nice meeting you, Baran.” Andrei left them.
Baran sat with Darien at their table while the club was still alive with energy, its neon lights casting a colorful glow across the room. He stared at the walls adorned with glittering decorations.
The dance floor was packed with people once again, their movements fluid and joyful. A stage at the far end of the club would showcase the talented performers again in thirty minutes. Baran felt a thrill being in such an animated environment, surrounded by the buzz of laughter and conversation.
He turned to Daddy Darien with a smile. “I can’t wait to start college and make some new friends. It was so great meeting Daniel, the dancer. He’s so talented and friendly.”
Darien nodded, his eyes reflecting the colorful lights of the club. “You’ll meet a lot of interesting people in college. It’s a great opportunity to build connections and explore new things.”
Baran took a sip of his drink, feeling a sense of anticipation for the future. “I’m really looking forward to it. And it’s amazing to think about all the people I’ll get to know. It makes everything feel so much more exciting.”
Darien smiled. “You’re going to thrive, Baran. Just be yourself and take every opportunity that comes your way.”
Baran leaned in closer, feeling a rush of affection for Daddy Darien. “And speaking of opportunities, I’ve been thinking about our Hawaii vacation. I’ve always wanted to see the beaches and try surfing.”
Daddy Darien’s face lit up with excitement. “Hawaii is incredible. The beaches are beautiful, and there’s so much to do. We can go snorkeling, hiking, and of course, surfing. It’ll be the perfect getaway.”
Baran’s eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. “It’ll be our first big trip together, and it sounds like it’ll be unforgettable.”
As they continued to chat about their upcoming vacation, the energy of the club buzzed around them, adding to the sense of adventure and possibility. Baran felt a profound sense of happiness and excitement. Knowing Daddy Darien was by his side, the future was filled with endless opportunities and shared dreams.
Chapter Twenty-nine
Baran
On Christmas Eve, thecafeteria at Rainbow Haven was a chaotic hive of activity, the aroma of roasting turkey and honey-glazed ham hanging heavy in the air. The chatter of men setting up tables and chairs was a delightful sound. Baran had spent the better part of the day preparing for the celebration, his heart full as he watched the community come together. Miss Charlotte had outdone herself again, cooking dinner for all sixty residents with the help of a few volunteers. The spread of golden turkeys,succulent hams, and every side dish imaginable would turn the modest cafeteria into a feast fit for kings.
Baran and Daddy Darien shopped for additional presents for the men—small but thoughtful items he hoped would make them feel special. Baran, Silas, Hawk, and Finley put up red stockings on the wall of the cafeteria with everyone’s names on them. Of course, Hawk assigned himself to guard them until it was time to pass them out.
As the men trickled into the cafeteria, laughter and cheer filled the room. Baran stood by the Christmas tree with Daddy Darien, both of them beaming as they wished every man happy holidays as he entered. The warmth of the moment was heightened when Andrei and Daniel arrived, unannounced and bearing their own surprises. They brought sixty brand-new cell phones for the men, a gesture that left most of them speechless. Most of the residents didn’t own phones, and the simple device would create a lifeline—a connection to things beyond the shelter walls.
“Thought you could use this,” Daniel said, flashing his easy smile as he handed a phone to one of the men. “Merry Christmas.”
Andrei gave Daddy Darien a nod, his quiet presence grounding the excitement in the room. “We couldn’t let the holiday pass without stopping by.”
“Stay for dinner,” Darien offered, his voice filled with gratitude. “You both should eat with all of us.”
“It would be great if you could,” Baran said.
Andrei exchanged a glance with Daniel, who nodded enthusiastically. “Wouldn’t miss it.”
“Are you heading out to Montauk tomorrow?” Daddy Darien asked Andrei.
“Yes. When are you going to Wainscott?”
“Tomorrow and we’ll stay overnight.”
“Then on your way back, stop at Montauk and we’ll find something to do.”
“Sounds good. I’ll give you a call,” Daddy Darien said.
Their eyes met, and with a brief nod, Baran and Daniel silently agreed to their daddies’ arrangement.
Soon, everyone was seated, plates piled high, the sound of clinking silverware and satisfied sighs filling the space. Baran and Daddy Darien sat with Daniel, Andrei, and Silas, the five of them tucked into a comfortable corner. Miss Charlotte was sitting at the other end with all her helpers in the kitchen.
