Chapter 13: Luke

Luke Ashton savored the rare freedom of a Saturday morning with no parental responsibilities. The kids were on a playdate with a classmate, leaving him with a precious few hours to himself. He hadn't realized how much he needed a break until his assistant, Alex, suggested they grab brunch and catch up.

As they sat at a sunny outdoor café, Luke felt a weight lift off his shoulders. No diaper changes, no homework help, no refereeing squabbles – just conversation and laughter with a friend. They talked about everything and nothing, their conversation flowing easily as they devoured their meals.

"I'm telling you, Luke, you deserve this," Alex said, sipping his coffee. "You're always putting the kids first. It's time to prioritize yourself for a change."

Luke nodded, feeling a mix of guilt and gratitude. He loved his kids more than anything, but the constant demands of single parenthood had taken a toll. He was always "on" – managing schedules, cooking meals, and being a role model. This brief respite was a reminder that he wasn't alone, and that sometimes, taking a step back was the best thing he could do for himself and his family.

As they lingered over their coffee, Luke felt his mind and body relax. He realized he had been running on autopilot, just trying to survive each day. But today, he could breathe, think, and enjoy the simple pleasure of friendship.

"Thanks for this, Alex," Luke said, meaning it. "I needed this more than I knew."

Alex smiled. "Anytime, man. That's what friends are for."

As they continued their conversation, Luke and Alex delved into their shared love of sports, debating the latest games and player stats. Luke was fully engaged, laughing and arguing with his friend, when suddenly, his gaze drifted across the street.

That's when he saw her – Eleanor, being pulled by a brunette into a departmental store. Could this really be a coincidence, or was this fate pushing them together 

"Hey, Luke, you okay?" Alex asked, noticing his friend's distraction.

Luke hesitated, unsure how to respond. He didn't want to reveal his interest in Eleanor, not even to Alex. "Yeah, I'm fine," he said finally, trying to brush it off. "Just thought I saw someone I knew."

Alex followed his gaze, but Eleanor had already disappeared into the store. "Who was it?" he asked, intrigued.

Luke shook his head, playing it cool. "No one, really. Just a teacher from the school."

Alex's knowing grin made Luke's face warm up. "Dude, you're not fooling me," Alex teased. "You're interested in her, aren't you?"

Luke dodged the question, taking an exaggerated sip from his coffee cup. Alex wouldn't let up, though. "Should we follow her?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

Luke rolled his eyes. "Okay, stalker, let's turn it down a notch."

But Alex persisted. "Come on, Lukey, we could pretend to bump into her, and you'd have an excuse to say hi."

Luke hesitated, weighing his options. He genuinely wanted to talk to Eleanor, but approaching her directly felt too bold. Maybe Alex's idea wasn't so crazy after all...

Luke rolled his eyes, trying to maintain a nonchalant facade, but Alex's suggestion had already taken root in his mind. "I don't know, man," he said, stalling for time. "That's a bit too coincidental, don't you think?"

Alex chuckled. "Coincidence is just a word, my friend. Besides, I'm just trying to help you out. You're clearly interested, and I'm happy to be your wingman."

Luke sighed, weighing his options. He did want to see Eleanor again, and a chance encounter might be the perfect opportunity to break the ice. But he didn't want to come on too strong or seem creepy.

"Fine," he said finally, setting his coffee cup down. "Let's take a walk around the block. If we happen to run into her, then great. But no pushing me to make a move, got it?"

Alex grinned triumphantly. "Scout's honor, Luke. I'll be on my best behavior."

As they strolled around the block, Luke's heart beat slightly faster, hoping that their "chance encounter" would actually happen. He glanced at Alex, who was trying to contain his amusement.

"You're enjoying this, aren't you?" Luke asked, shaking his head.

Alex nodded unapologetically. "Hey, someone's got to help you get your love life back on track."

Luke playfully shot Alex a warning look, but his friend just chuckled and continued to stroll alongside him. As they turned the corner, Luke's heart skipped a beat. There, across the street, was Eleanor, looking stunning in a yellow sundress, her hair tied up in a loose bun. She was laughing with the brunette, who was now holding several shopping bags.

"Ah, look at that," Alex said, nudging Luke. "Fate's on our side."

Luke's pulse quickened as they approached the intersection. He felt a mix of excitement and nerves, hoping that Eleanor would notice them and come over.

As they waited for the light to change, Luke caught Eleanor's eye, and she smiled, looking surprised but pleased. The brunette followed her gaze, and smirked

The light turned green, and Alex nudged Luke forward. "Go on, Lukey. Fate's calling."

Luke smiled and quickened his pace, Alex keeping stride beside him. As they approached Eleanor and her companion, Luke's heart raced with anticipation.

"Hi, Eleanor!" Luke called out, trying to sound casual. "Fancy running into you here!"

Eleanor's smile widened, and she excused herself from grip of the other woman. "Luke! What a coincidence! I was just shopping with my friend Melissa. Melissa this is Luke" she introduced

Melissa, a stylish brunette with a warm smile, extended her hand. "Hi, Luke. Nice to meet you. I've heard a lot about you" she said a sly smile on her face

Luke shook her hand, feeling a sense of ease. "Good things I hope?" He asked receiving a nod

As they chatted, Alex hung back, observing the scene with a knowing glint in his eye. Luke tried to ignore him, focusing on his conversation with Eleanor and Melissa. Luke found himself laughing and feeling more at ease with each passing minute.

"Hey, we should grab coffee sometime," Luke suggested, trying to sound casual. "The four of us, maybe?"

Eleanor's eyes sparkled, and Melissa nodded enthusiastically. "That sounds like fun!"

Alex, sensing victory, grinned and clapped Luke on the back. "We'll leave you two to continue with your shopping. Nice meeting you, Eleanor, Melissa!"

As they walked away from Eleanor and Melissa, Alex suddenly burst into laughter. With hiss brows furrowed, Luke turned to him, confused. "What's so funny?"

Alex struggled to speak, wiping tears from the corners of his eyes. "Man...I thought you were just interested...but no...you're whipped, man! In over your head, soaked in love!" He chuckled, holding his sides. "You were practically shooting hearts out of your eyes!"

Luke's face turned bright red as he playfully shoved Alex. "Shut up, man! I was just being friendly."

Alex held his sides, still chuckling. "Friendly? You were practically drooling! I've never seen you like this before. You're in trouble, my friend."

Luke rolled his eyes, trying to maintain a nonchalant facade, but Alex's words struck a chord. He couldn't deny the strong connection he felt with Eleanor.

"Hey, I'm just happy to see you happy, Lukey," Alex said, grinning. "But seriously, be careful. You're moving fast. Make sure you're ready for whatever comes next."

Luke nodded, taking Alex's words to heart. He knew his friend was right – he was moving quickly, but he couldn't help how he felt.

As they walked away, Luke couldn't shake off the feeling that his life was about to change in ways he never expected. And he was excited to see what the future held.