The Unusual Occurrence Of Mote

Chapter 16: Changing Fate

As Saturday dawned, so did new possibilities for Eary. Today was the day of his and Decan's 'Date'.

Although he wasn't positive, it was. It did nothing from Eary telling himself that.

As he got ready for the day, he stared at himself in the mirror. He and Mote had gone through almost all his outfits to find the perfect choice. A black sweater with a white button-up underneath. He looked great but felt he needed something extra. Searching around the suite, he was delighted to find a bottle of unopened aftershave. Giving himself a generous dose and one last glance. He got his coat and headed out the door.

Decan lived on the second floor. Eary pressed the (2), he was taken aback when the doors opened to reveal Decan standing there. The two smiled as he boarded. Making their way to the lobby, Eary and Decan shyly exchanged glances. Arriving in the lobby, they two made their way out of the Star Gazer and down to the bus stop.

Decan complimented Eary on the way. "You smell really nice."

Bright Hope, a charming mountain town near the institute, had become their new sanctuary. Its picturesque streets, blanketed in a fresh layer of snow, provided a serene backdrop for their day of exploration. Eary, his blonde hair now dusted with frost, walked alongside Decan through the glistening streets, feeling a mix of emotions.

Decan, with his warm smile and dark brown eyes, glanced at Eary as they walked along the frosty downtown. Their interest was piqued by a cozy, dimly lit café. Its interior exuded warmth and charm. Decan held the door open for Eary as they entered. the scent of freshly brewed coffee, and the soft murmur of patrons filled the air.

"Decan," Eary began, his voice carrying a touch of curiosity and vulnerability, "I appreciate you inviting me to hang out. It means a lot. I didn't really have any friends back home."

Decan smiled warmly. "Eary, I know school was rough for you because of Josh telling people stuff." The boy glanced down at his coffee. He continued. "I used to tell the other kids to back off you." He smiled shyly at the reveal.

Eary's heartbeat began to speed up. He replied, "Thank you."

Decan cautiously smiled back, his eyes sparkling in the café light.

The moment was interrupted by the arrival of Calvin and Mei to the café. As they entered, Mei's attention was caught by Eary and Decan.

"Hey!" She exclaimed as the two made their way over to the boys. Taking a seat at their table, Mei continued, "What are you two up to today?" She asked curiously.

Eary and Decan flashed each other an awkward glance as Decan replied, "Just out, seeing the sights."

Eary smiled nervously as he nodded along.

Mei grinned cheerily. "We are too! I need a break from being cooped up! Then yesterday, Calvin asked me if I'd like to explore the town. "

Eary suspiciously glanced in Calvin's direction. He wore a faint smile, aimed towards Decan. Eary looked down in his lap. His eyes lit up, and a large smile danced across his face. Composing himself, he replied, "What a coincidence, Decan asked me the same thing."

Mei cheerfully exclaimed, her hands clasped over her mouth. "Maybe we should all go around together?!"

The silent Calvin immediately spoke up. "I thought you said you two were going to go do a thing." Calvin stared intensely at Decan.

He quickly responded, "Oh, right. That thing."

Eary smirked and inquired. "What thing are we doing today, Decan?"

Decan nervously replied. "It's a surprise."

Mei chimed in. "I like surprises," She stated naively.

Eary, feeling Decan's unease, exclaimed. "Oh, yeah! That thing we have." He turned towards Mei and mournfully stated. "I'd love to hang out today, but it is a private thing for us, Toronto boys."