"Ha- hi Ain, th-thanks for wa-waiting for me," Theo greeted Luca as he made his way to sit across Luca at the quaint table.

"No, that's fine Dae," Luca quickly stated as he moved his bag from the table.

Theo shook head. "I-I mean it. I-I didn't reh-realize that it was a- a bit la-later than the planned ta-time."

"No, I realized you were running late. I was going to pick you up but saw everyone running around. Is there something going on today? I wasn't told anything so I wasn't sure," Luca said as he held a cup of iced coffee to Theo, "I wasn't sure what you wanted, so I got the basics."

Theo shook his head as he took the coffee from Luca's hands. "This is fine," he said as he took a sip.

Luca internally shivered at the idea of the bitter coffee. It wasn't until he grimaced that Theo then spoke up. "There's literally no sugar! I think I spoke too soon."

Luca, agreeing, quickly handed him a dozen sugar packets. This coffee store always overdoes their coffee roasting so it's never the best flavour.

Theo looked surprised at the amount of sugar packets Luca handed him. "A-ain this is to- too much!"

Luca shrugged. "you look like the person who likes their sugar." He took a loud sip of his strawberry creme drink. Theo didn't know that of course.

Theo gave a small cough as he looked away, giving a shy smile, "Ye-yeah.I like it was super sweet, but wha-where did you get this many?"

Luca points to the condiments stand. "Ieon usually forgets her sugar. She will order something new and realize that there is not enough sugar. Or she will be forgetting her order and what she puts in it."

Theo nodded in understanding as he glanced at Luca's open notebook and tablet propped up. "Were-were you wa-working while I-I was ga-getting here?"

Luca nodded. "I am as much of a journalist now. I was given an assignment so I'm working up on that. Once that is done, I'm going to have to research more for my show."

"You-you sta-still take asi-assignments? I tha-thought yo-you didn't ha-have to do-do that," Theo said.

Luca, starting to pack away his tablet and notebook, propped his elbows up and smiled at Theo. "It's a hectic schedule, but if it was too much, I could ask not to." He took a quick sip o f his drink, momentarily setting the Cup down. "How about you? How's your day been?"

Theo fiddled with the sugar packets as he began to speak," It's cra-crazy. Ma-maybe management just da-doesn't like me. They're ma-making me go through the-the records and to cra-cross reference audience fa-feedback with each show's ratings. What's worse is that na-no department is wa-willing to share the information they ha-have. I-I have to keep running back an-an forth just to get simple information."

He took a deep breath before steadying himself. "I-I'm just a-a media in-intern. I-I uh- understand the-that this is im-important but sta-still. I-I want to-to be oh-on the pra-production side of-of everything. Na-not the research side."

"Have you told them your thoughts?" Luca asked as went deep in thought. It was common for a group of interns to go ahead and research on previous shows, but the way Theo explained it felt unsettling.

Theo shook his head. "I-I can't ee-even talk with you without sta-stuttering yet. Ha-how am I supposed to-to do it with the-them?"

"Theo, you're doing just fine," Luca assured him, placing a hand gently on his arm. "Theo, don't be too hard on yourself. Stuttering doesn't define your abilities or your value. In fact, it's a unique part of who you are. You have a lot of potential, and I believe in you."

Theo smiled at Luca's encouraging words, appreciating his support. "Th-thank you, Ain. I ap-appreciate that. It's just that I re-really want to make a good im-impression and show that I'm va-valuable to the team."

Luca nodded in agreement. "I get it, and you're already doing a great job by putting in the effort. But if you want to transition to the production side, you should have a conversation with your superiors. Let them know your goals and what you're passionate about. Your dedication and hard work will speak for themselves, stutter or not."

Theo considered Luca's advice, taking another sip of his overly sweetened coffee. "You're right. I should ta-take a step forward and ta-talk to them. Ma-maybe I can be ma-more involved in the creative process and not just stuck with research."

Luca smiled, his encouragement evident. "Exactly! And if you need any help or support along the way, don't hesitate to reach out. I'll be here for you, dae."

As Theo and Luca continued their conversation, the café's door swung open, and a burst of cold autumn air swept through the cozy space. The bell above the door jingled, and in walked a petite figure, wrapped in a long, flowing coat. Leila stood there, her hands searching frantically in her bag.

She noticed Luca and Theo and made her way toward their table, a worried expression on her face. "Daen, have you seen my notepad? I swear I had it just a minute ago," she said in a rush, her eyes flickering around the table as if hoping it might magically appear.

Luca sighed as he ruffled through his bag and took out a familiar looking notebook. "You didn't just have it. You didn't have it for a while, Ieon."

Leila's eyes widened as she realized her mistake, and she took the notebook from Luca's hand with a sheepish smile. "Oh, sorry, Dae. You really are a lifesaver. You know how I am."

Theo chimed in, offering a reassuring tone, "Da-don't worry, Ieon. We ah-all have our ma-moments, and it's a good thing you have A-Ain."

"I am so lucky to have such a great dae," Leila sighed before she looked at the two with a suspicious-looking grin. "What are you two doing here all by yourself? Is this what I think it is?"

Luca shook his head before Theo could say a word, "He was just asking a couple questions as an intern. Nothing wrong with that."

Theo vigorously nodded, "I-I had some questions that I-I wa-wanted to as-ask."

Leila's look didn't let up but she shrugged, "If that's what floats your boat. Anywho, you have a meeting right?"

Luca nodded, "It's in a couple minutes. I should get going."

As he said that, he got up, starting to pack and threw out the rest of his drink. "Work has already started for you too, dae. I'm not going to be your excuse for being late. Come on now."

...

"You know, you're usually not on your phone whenever we go out for lunch or dinner," Wei pointed out as he was eating his pad kra pao.

The two went out to get dinner together as it was now their new tradition to get one meal per week together.

"Sorry, just got caught up with work," Luca replied, glancing at his phone briefly before slipping it back into his pocket. "It's been a hectic day."

If work meant Theo, then yes, Luca was caught up with work.

Wei sighed, "you've been busy with work nowadays. I thought you were freer now that you're doing the talk show."

Luca shook his head. "Not really. I have to attend meetings and everything to be up to date as well as go over the script. There's also a music festival the company is holding and they want me to host. That means I have to help them with a couple preparations."

"I understand," Wei said softly. "It's just that you seem a bit distant lately. I miss our usual conversations."

Luca looked up from his food, his expression softening. "I miss them too, Wei. I promise I'll make more time for you."

Wei smiled faintly. "I know you will, Luca. You always do."

They continued eating in a comfortable silence, enjoying each other's company despite the unspoken tension that had been lingering between them.

As they finished their meal, Wei turned to Luca with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "So, about this music festival..."

Luca chuckled. "What about it?"

"Are you going to bring me as your date?" Wei asked, batting his eyelashes playfully.

Luca froze. He was attending the music festival as part of work. He didn't think about bringing Wei along. Not only that, he made plans with Theo after the festival was over.

"I... I don't know, Wei," Luca stammered. "It's a work thing, and I already made plans."

Wei's smile faltered slightly. "Oh," he said, his voice laced with disappointment. "I thought maybe it would be nice to go together. We could have had a lot of fun."

Luca felt a pang of guilt. "I'm sorry, maybe next time."

Wei's disappointment was evident, but he mustered a small smile. "No worries, Luca. I understand work comes first. Just remember to save some fun for me next time."

Luca reached across the table to place a reassuring hand on Wei's. "I promise, we'll find another time to go out and have a great time together."

Wei squeezed Luca's hand, his smile returning. "I'll hold you to that, Luca."

The surrounding atmosphere seemed to shift, the previous warmth giving way to an air of awkwardness.

Luca sighed. "You know I can't give you what I want. I don't feel that way anymore."

With a sigh, Wei leaned back in his chair, a subtle sadness in his eyes. "I know that, and I'm not asking that from you."

Luca nodded, trying to find a way to change the topic. "Aren't some of your artists going to be at the festival?"

"I think VISION was requested to join. There are a couple others but everyone's focusing on VISION because it is his big break," Wei nodded.

"VISION, huh?" Luca said, his voice laced with curiosity. "I've heard a lot about him. He's supposed to be pretty good."

"He is," Wei agreed. "He's got a lot of potential, and I think he's going to make it big. I'm really proud of him."

"I'm sure he is," Luca said. "He's got you in his corner, after all."

Wei chuckled. "Yeah, I guess I do."

"Have I met him before?" Luca couldn't help but ask.

Wei looked to the side in deep thought, "I'm not sure. Have you met Dae Levani?"

"Levani? As in the guy that Kai got into a fight over a girl with? That Levani?" Luca couldn't help but look increduous.

Wei looked grim, "yeah, that Levani - wait. How do you know about him? You weren't there when it happened."

"Lucy told me everything. We started talking a couple years after I left and she practically word vomit.

Wei's expression turned into a mix of surprise and concern. "Lucy told you about that? I didn't know she'd shared that with you." He shook his head, a faint sigh escaping his lips. "That was a messy situation, and it definitely didn't paint Levani in the best light."

Luca nodded, recalling the details Lucy had shared with him. "Yeah, it sounded pretty intense. Kai didn't hold back from what I heard."

Wei's eyes darkened briefly, his brows furrowing. "Kai was... well, Kai. He wasn't going to back down easily, especially not in that situation."

Luca's gaze softened as he thought about the dynamic between Kai and Levani. "I can't imagine what it was like for you, having to deal with that drama and manage Levani's career at the same time."

Wei gave a rueful smile. "It wasn't easy, that's for sure. But Levani had potential, and I believed in him. It took a lot of work and patience, but we managed to turn things around eventually."

"It's great that he was able to rise above it all," Luca acknowledged. "Seems like he's really making a name for himself now."

Wei nodded, a hint of pride in his eyes. "He's come a long way. He's got a new sound that people seem to be responding well to, and I'm excited to see where he goes from here."

"Well then, I'll make sure to take good care of him when it comes to the festival," Luca promised as he waved his hand for dessert.

"Dessert?" Wei looked confused and then he looked at his plate, "oh, I didn't realize that I finished."

"You never realize." Luca shook his head as he handed Wei the dessert menu.

"I do! I just forgot this time," Wei admitted sheepishly.

Luca shook his head, "it's not this time. The other day you kept digging into your plate for more but never realized you were picking up nothing. Or the other time where you were eating from someone else's plate."

Wei's cheeks flushed slightly as he recalled the incidents Luca mentioned. "Okay, maybe I do get a little too absorbed."

Wei's eyes widened in mock horror as he recalled the incidents Luca mentioned. "Oh no, not the 'eating from someone else's plate' incident again. I thought we agreed not to bring that up."

Luca couldn't help but chuckle at Wei's exaggerated reaction. "I'm sorry, but it's just too good not to mention. You were so engrossed in the conversation that you didn't even realize it wasn't your plate."

Wei sighed dramatically, his hand pressed against his chest. "My reputation is ruined forever. I'll never live it down."

"Don't worry," Luca said, patting Wei's shoulder reassuringly. "It's all part of your charm."

Wei sent Luca a look before looking through the menu. "I've made my choice, and I promise not to eat anyone else's dessert by accident."

Luca laughed, his eyes bright with amusement. "What did you decide on?"

Wei's grin widened. "I'm thinking of trying the mango sticky rice."

Luca nodded in approval. "That sounds like a great choice. I'll have the same."

Once the two have placed their orders for dessert, they reverted back to the topic of the music festival.

"The festival is in a month right?" Wei confirmed as he was scrolling through his phone.

"Yeah on the 14th. It's supposed to be from 5 to 11. Even I'm not sure if I'm going to last that long. At least one of the interns is my co-host," Luca shrugged.

"Co-host? They're doing that for the festival?" Wei couldn't help but feel surprised.

Luca nodded as he arranged the plates so the waiter could take them back. "Apparently, when he was doing a news report, it attracted a lot of attention and the ratings have been going super high because of that. Kinda reminds me of myself to be honest."

"The high ratings?" Wei looked confused, "or the news report. I didn't know the interns do the news report too."

Luca nodded. "Both actually. I got my breakthrough because several people liked my news reports and how fast it spread all over social media. Didn't help that the higher ups also liked me."

"So he's following your steps?" Wei confirmed as he thought about Luca's timeline to get to the point where he is.

"Somewhat. It took me even longer to make it this far and he's speeding through it."

"I mean that's great for him though. He's getting a head start in his career," Wei pointed out.

Luca nodded, "his future is looking way brighter than how it looked like when he first started."

"So it's just going to be you two hosting the festival? Wait- why are you hosting a music festival? It's not like it's a holiday or something or something very special, right?" Wei asked.

Luca gave him a "are you serious" look. "Haven't you been here for a year. How do you not know what's next month?"

Wei just blinked with confusion. "What's next month?'

Luca visibly groaned as he hid head against the table.

"The city's anniversary is next month. That's why everyone is stressing out. City D is based on media and the arts, but more like journalism and painting and such. The festival is made as a way to bring everything together. They ask journalists to come forward and help with the initiative of bringing the city together through the music festival. Sure there'll be music but it's more than just that."

Wei listened intently as Luca explained the significance of the upcoming music festival in celebration of City D's anniversary. "I had no idea the festival was tied to the city's anniversary. It makes sense now why it's such a big deal here."

Luca nodded in agreement, his expression softening. "It's one of those events that really showcases the heart of this city. It's not just about the entertainment; it's about fostering a sense of community and celebrating the talents that make this place so unique."

Wei smiled, appreciating the sentiment. "I'm glad I get to experience this. It sounds like it'll be a memorable event."

As the waiter approached with their mango sticky rice, Luca's eyes gleamed with excitement. "I attended the festival as both an attendee and staff. It's stressful as staff but it's rewarding. The festival is beautiful. You'd like it when you see it."

Wei nodded as he took a spoonful of his sticky rice. Wei savored the sweet and creamy texture of the mango sticky rice, his anticipation for the upcoming festival growing with every bite.

"I can't wait to see it for myself. It seems like a wonderful way to celebrate the spirit of this city."

Luca nodded, a nostalgic glint in his eyes. "You'll love the vibrant atmosphere and the diverse range of talents on display. It's an experience unlike any other."

"I'm looking forward to it," Wei replied, his excitement palpable.

Luca smiled, his gaze drifting towards the bustling surroundings. "It has a way of uniting people from all walks of life, reminding us of the shared passion and creativity that make this city so special."

"Quit talking about the festival, it's going to get me grey hairs at this point. Do you dye your hair?" Luca pointed at Wei's hair strands.

Wei's jaw dropped. "What do you mean by dyeing my hair? What? Did Kai put you up to this too? First Kai, then Lucy, now you? Everyone's asking about it too!"

Luca giggled at Wei's response, "Aren't you a COO, you're supposed to be grey-haired by now."

Wei frowned at Luca's response, "are you okay? I'm not even in my 30s. Why would I get grey hair?"

"You look like the type to dye your hair," Luca shrugged, "Also there's nothing wrong with dying your hair. I've done mine before."

"You have?" Wei's curiosity piqued.

Luca nodded and began scrolling through his phone. With a smile, he turned the screen to show Wei a picture. In the photograph, Luca sported vibrant mint green highlights, standing alongside Leila, their expressions exuding a contagious energy.

Wei was enamored by Luca's look. The desire to see Luca with the mint highlights seemed to suddenly manifest and grow, but the sadness of missing a few years of Luca's life also existed.

Wei's eyes widened in surprise as he took in the image of Luca with vibrant mint green highlights. "Wow, you look great!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with admiration. "I never would have thought you'd go for this."

Luca's smile widened. "Thanks," he replied. "It wasn't my decision to be honest. Leila wanted to do it so I went with her but she chickened out at the very last minute."

Wei nodded in agreement. "I think it suits you really well. It makes you look really confident."

Luca chuckled. "I guess that's true," he said. "I definitely felt more alive after dying it."

Wei glanced at the time displayed on his phone. "Wait, it's gotten this late already?"

Luca also checked, and he saw a couple of text messages too, "It has. I should get going. It was supposed to be a quiet weekend, but Noah exists."

"What's your relationship with Noah?" Wei asked, as he started to clean himself up.

Luca shrugged carelessly. "I really don't know," he admitted, his tone laced with a hint of confusion. "We've kissed and gotten handsy, nothing more than that.

Wei's curiosity piqued at Luca's revelation. "Handsy?" he echoed, raising an eyebrow. "How handsy?"

Luca chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Well, let's just say he's not shy about expressing his interest," he said. "But I'm not sure if I'm ready for anything more than that right now."

"Noah's more of a parent to me. That's weird to think about it," Wei thought out loud.

"That your friend that you see as a parental figure is making out with your ex?" Luca said, looking a bit weirded out.

Wei groaned as he buried his head into his hands, "please don't say that. That sounds entirely weird."

"You're making it weird. Stop thinking it like that," Luca went ahead and smacked the side of Wei's head.

Wei let out a yelp in response to Luca's playful smack. "Hey!" he exclaimed, rubbing the spot where Luca had hit him.

Luca grinned mischievously. "You deserved it," he said. "You were the one who brought it up in the first place."

Wei rolled his eyes. "Fine," he admitted. "But it's still strange to think about."

Luca shrugged. "I guess it is a bit weird," he said. "But it's not like it's anything serious. Noah is just being his usual flirty self."

Wei nodded, trying to shake off the awkwardness of the situation.

Luca's phone then buzzed again. "yeah, I should definitely go."

"Someone's here to pick you up?" Wei asked, confused.

"Yeah, a friend," Luca said as he got up, his eyes not straying away from his phone.

Wei couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment as Luca gathered his things to leave. He had been enjoying their conversation, and he didn't want it to end so soon.

"Oh," he said, trying to mask his disappointment. "Well, it was nice seeing you again."

Luca looked up from his phone and flashed Wei a quick smile. "Yeah, it was nice seeing you too," he said. "I'll call you soon."

Wei nodded, trying to suppress a sigh. "Okay," he said.

Luca rose from his seat and strolled towards the entrance of the restaurant. His gaze wandered over the bustling street, and a familiar car caught his attention as it pulled up in front of him.

The window on the passenger side rolled down, and Theo's voice greeted him from within. "Ain!"

Luca gave a wide smile as he entered the car.

"Hello Dae," Luca replied, settling comfortably into the passenger seat. "You didn't have to come and pick me up."

Theo glanced at Luca with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "It's fa-fine Ain. I-I don't mind picking you up."

Luca's heart swelled with warmth at Theo's words. He knew that Theo had gone out of his way to pick him up, and he appreciated the gesture more than he could say.

"Thanks, Theo," he said sincerely. "That means a lot to me."

Theo smiled shyly. "Ih-It was no problem," he said. "I-I just wanted to make sha-sure you got home safely."

Luca's cheeks flushed slightly at Theo's concern. He had always felt a special connection with Theo, and their friendship had only grown stronger over time.

The two of them drove in silence for a few minutes, enjoying the comfortable companionship. Luca glanced at Theo from the corner of his eye, admiring his handsome features.

Luca's heart fluttered as he thought about how Theo had looked at him when he had gotten into the car. There was something in Theo's eyes, a hint of longing and desire that made Luca's heart race.

"Have you spoken with some of the sponsors for the festival?" Luca asked, breaking the silence.

Theo nodded. "Yeah, I've spoken to a few of them. They're all really excited about the festival, and they're eager to get involved."

Luca's eyes lit up with enthusiasm. "That's great to hear," he said. "I knew this festival was going to be a success."

Theo chuckled. "You're so-so excited about this fa-festival, Ain," he said.

Luca grinned. "Well, someone has to be," he said. "And besides, I have faith in you. You're going to do a great job pulling this off."

Theo smiled gratefully at Luca's words. "Tha-Thanks, Ain," he said. "I appreciate ih-it."

The two of them continued to chat about the festival, their voices filled with excitement and anticipation. Luca couldn't wait to see the festival come to life, and he knew that Theo would do an amazing job of making it happen.

As they pulled up to Luca's apartment building, Luca turned to Theo with a smile. "Thanks for the ride, Dae," he said. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Ain," Theo replied, his eyes looking bright.

Luca watched as Theo drove away, a warm smile spreading across his face.

As Luca walked into his apartment, he couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation that had been building all evening. The festival was just around the corner, and he could feel the energy of the city buzzing with excitement.

He knew that the next few days would be a whirlwind of activity, but he was ready for it. He was excited to see all the hard work come together, and he couldn't wait to experience the festival with Theo.

Luca decided to take a quick shower to wash away the stress of the day. As he stood under the hot water, Luca's mind kept drifting back to the conversation with Wei. They had shared a good meal and had fun, even if there was an underlying tension that lingered between them.

As he scrubbed his hair, he couldn't help but think about the disappointment in Wei's eyes when he had to leave. Despite the awkwardness, he appreciated Wei's presence and the genuine moments they shared.

As he dried himself off and changed into comfortable pajamas, Luca's mind continued to race with thoughts of the upcoming festival and the interactions of the evening. He couldn't help but feel a tinge of guilt for not considering Wei's feelings more carefully, especially regarding the music festival. It had never occurred to Luca that Wei might have wanted to attend the event as more than just friends.

Sitting down on his couch, Luca reached for his phone, intending to send a quick text to Wei. Before he could compose the message, his phone buzzed with a new notification. It was a text from Wei.

Wei: Thanks for dinner. I enjoyed spending time with you.

Wei: Looking forward to the festival.

Wei: Goodnight.

Reading Wei's message brought a warm smile to Luca's face. He quickly typed a reply, expressing his own gratitude for the dinner and his excitement for the upcoming festival.

Luca sighed and set his phone down on the coffee table.

He really needed to talk with Wei about where they stand. They're friends and nothing more, and Luca knows that Wei wishes that they were back together.

He was going to take a relaxing day tomorrow.

Luca: Are you free tomorrow night?

Noah: Why? Is there something special???

Luca: No.

Luca: Are you free?

Noah: I meannn I have a surgery tomorrow but I should make it after

Luca: Okay

...

Luca emerged from the building, his lithe figure clad in a sleek racing suit that hugged his curves like a second skin. His windswept hair mirrored the energy that emanated from his determined gaze, set on conquering the track before him.

T'Otieno was able to open a time where the track was available for Luca to race. It was just him racing, with a crew standing by in case to fix, and Otieno was in his office, doing paperwork.

Under his arm, he held a helmet, its reflective surface gleaming under the sun's watchful eye. With a purposeful stride, he made his way towards his motorbike, a powerful beast of a machine that seemed to pulse with anticipation.

Before mounting his steed, Luca paused to capture the moment, snapping a picture of the expansive track stretching out before him. The empty expanse, devoid of competitors, represented a blank canvas, an opportunity waiting for Luca to fill it up.

With a final glance at the image, Luca slipped his phone into his pocket, zipping it up to secure it. He swung his leg over the motorbike, straddling it with practiced ease.

His gloved hands gripped the handlebars, his body aligning with the machine, forming a symbiotic union of man and motor.

As the engine roared to life, a surge of adrenaline coursed through Luca's veins. The world around him blurred into a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds, the only constant being the unwavering line of asphalt that beckoned him forward.

With a twist of the throttle, Luca launched himself into the heart of the track, his motorbike transforming into a blur of motion. The wind whipped past his face, the roar of the engine a symphony of power and speed.

Luca leaned into the curves, his body in perfect harmony with the motorbike, each movement an instinctive response to the rhythm of the track.

With each lap, Luca pushed himself to the limits, his mind focused on the apex of each corner, the perfect line through every bend. The motorbike responded to his every command, a testament to the bond between man and machine.

As the final lap drew to a close, Luca crossed the finish line, his body drained yet exhilarated. He had conquered the track, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.

Dismounting his motorbike, Luca took a deep breath, savoring the lingering scent of gasoline and exhaust fumes. If possible, he'd rather bask in this scent, but that would cause his very negative side effects.

He let the crew take the bike, to make sure it was in working condition for the next few rounds and such.

He walked over to the refreshment bar outside the building and grabbed a cold bottle of water as he leaned against the table to scroll through his phone.

There were a couple of messages from a familiar someone.

Instead of replying with a text, Luca decided to call, eager to hear Theo's voice and gauge his reaction to the surprise call. The phone rang a few times before a hesitant voice answered, "Ha-hello?"

"You wanted to know where I was?" Luca asked, his voice playfully teasing.

A flustered silence filled the line for a moment before Theo stammered out, "I-I was just cu-cuorious about where you were. Ih-it was an empty track so I-I was confused."

Luca chuckled at Theo's flustered response. "I'm just borrowing a friend's track," he said, his voice playful yet reassuring. "If you want to come, you're more than welcome. I'll send you the address. The owner doesn't mind either, as long as he gets his money's worth."

"Ya-you sure? I da-don't want to i-impose," Theo said after a little while.

Luca shook his head, despite knowing Theo couldn't see that. "Great," he replied. "I'll send you the address right now."

He quickly sent Theo a text with the address, his heart pounding with anticipation. He couldn't wait to see Theo's reaction when he first laid eyes on the impressive track.

"I-I got it Ain," Theo said.

"Great," Luca replied, his heart swelling with anticipation. "I can't wait to see you."

He hung up the phone and finished his water, feeling a renewed sense of energy. The thought of seeing Theo again filled him with excitement.

As he walked back to the track, Luca couldn't help but smile.

He reached the track and saw the crew working on his bike. They gave him a thumbs up, indicating that it was ready to go.

Luca mounted his bike, revving the engine, as he felt the familiar surge of power beneath him.

He drew in a deep breath, then accelerated down the track. He went a couple more laps before he decided to take a longer break. This time, actually going ahead and getting lunch.

As he went to order some lunch, he saw a familiar car approach the track.

"A-Ain!" Theo called as he parked his car.

"You actually came," Luca gave a wide smile.

Theo nodded as he went to his trunk and took out a dabbas.

"I-I made lunch ih-if that's fine?" Theo asked hesitantly as he raised the dabbas. "The-there should be enough for eh-everyone here. Unless I miscounted."

Luca's eyes lit up with delight as he approached Theo. "That's more than fine, Theo," he said, his voice filled with warmth. "Thank you so much for bringing lunch."

With a hand on Theo's back, Luca led Theo towards the building where they unlocked the dabbas and spread out the multiple dishes Theo brought.

Luca's heart swelled as he watched Theo carefully unpack the dabbas, revealing an array of mouthwatering dishes. The aroma of Theo's cooking wafted through the air, filling the room with an enticing blend of spices and savory scents.

"Theo, this is incredible," Luca said, his voice filled with admiration. "I can't believe you went to all this trouble for us."

Theo blushed at Luca's praise, his cheeks turning a rosy pink. "Ih-it was no trouble at all," he murmured, his voice barely audible above the clatter of utensils. "I-I just wanted to make something special for you ah-and the others."

Luca's gaze swept over the spread of food, taking in the vibrant colors and delicate arrangements. There was a dish for every taste, from aromatic curries to spicy stir-fries to savory rice bowls. It was clear that Theo had put his heart and soul into each dish.

"This is amazing, Dae!" Luca said, his voice filled with sincerity.

Theo smiled shyly, his eyes sparkling with warmth. "I I'm glad you like it," he replied. "I-I hope you all enjoy it."

As the crew gathered around the table, their faces lit up with excitement at the sight of the delicious spread. They heaped praise upon Theo, thanking him for his thoughtfulness and culinary skills.

Once Luca and everyone else was sated and full, Luca decided to show Theo around the track.

"This track belongs to a friend," Luca stated as he saw Otieno in the distance. "Ain! I want you to meet my dae, Theo. Theo, this is A'Otieno, he's my friend's cousin and he's the owner of the track."

"This beauty is all mine," Otieno said as he puffed out his chest with pride once he shaked Theo's hand.

Theo nodded in awe as he took in the impressive expanse of the track, his eyes widening with admiration. "Ih-It's an oh-honor to ma-meet you, A'Otieno," he said, his voice tinged with respect. "This track is truly remarkable."

Otieno beamed at Theo's words, a wide grin spreading across his face. "I'm glad you think so," he replied, his tone laced with pride. "We've put a lot of effort into making it one of the best in the area."

"I'm going to show him around the track if that's alright with you?" Luca asked.

Otieno clapped Luca on the back, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Well then, you two enjoy the track," he said, a playful tone in his voice. "And let me know if you need anything. I'll be around."

With that, Otieno left them to explore the track, his figure disappearing into the distance as he attended to other matters.

"Wh-what kind of track is this?" Theo asked as he looked at the sharp curves from the distance.

"It's serves as both a track for car racing and motorbike racing. More convenient for motorbike racing however," Luca explained as he walked them over to the idle motorcycles and cars.

"Wh-which one do you do?" Theo asked, looking at the vast array of vehicles.

"I ride this one," Luca gestured toward a sleek dual sport bike, "perfect for all sorts of adventurous endeavors." He then motioned to another bike nearby. "And this is my go-to, the naked bike. You can spot it easily by its streamlined design and exposed components."

As Theo listened intently, Luca continued to explain the unique features and performance capabilities of each bike, showcasing his passion for the sport and the machines that fueled his adrenaline.

With every detail, Theo found himself drawn further into Luca's world, captivated by his enthusiasm and knowledge.