Chapter 16
Anthony was in a state of constant euphoria ever since that second kiss with Kenny. The kind of happiness that felt like it filled every inch of his body, glowing from the inside out. His life had taken a sudden turn for the better, and he couldn't stop smiling. Not that he would have wanted to, of course. But today, today was different. Today was special.
It had been a few weeks since Kenny and Anthony decided to make their relationship official, despite agreeing not to tell anyone yet. That promise had been easy to keep at first. Anthony had wanted to shout it from the rooftops, but he respected Kenny’s wish to keep things under wraps for now. Still, there was something about the connection between them that felt too good to keep quiet about.
It wasn't a surprise, really, that he'd told his family. He'd always been the kind of person who wore his heart on his sleeve, and keeping a secret like this was nearly impossible. The happiness and excitement bubbling inside him needed an outlet, so he’d confessed to his parents, who, of course, had been thrilled. Johnny had hugged him and clapped him on the back, proudly proclaiming that he could tell Anthony was glowing in a way he hadn’t seen before. Daniel, more reserved but equally supportive, gave him a warm smile and a quiet “I’m happy for you, son.”
Then there was Sam. Oh, Sam. She had teased him relentlessly, but in the most loving way possible. Her smirk as she asked him all the embarrassing questions—what it was like to kiss Kenny, whether he’d gotten butterflies—had made Anthony flush a hundred different shades of red. But despite the teasing, Sam had been supportive, telling him she was glad to see him happy.
And then there was his best friend. Devon had practically screamed in excitement when Anthony told him, calling him all sorts of cheesy, over-the-top names like “the cutest couple in school” and “a heartthrob in the making.” Devon had even joked about writing a fanfic about Anthony and Kenny’s love story, which made Anthony laugh harder than he had in weeks.
But today was a new day. A very special day. Anthony had been counting down the days to this date like a child waiting for Christmas morning. It wasn’t their first date—no, that had been a quiet, sweet evening spent at the park, talking about everything and nothing. Their second date had been a movie night at Anthony’s place, filled with laughter and gentle touches. And their third? Well, their third had been at a quaint little café, and it had felt like something out of a romance novel.
But today, today was different. This was their fourth date, and they were going to Golf n' Stuff, a place Anthony had always loved going to as a kid. Mini-golf, arcade games, go-karts... it was perfect. Kenny had never been there before, and Anthony couldn't wait to show him everything.
Sam, of course, had already picked up on Anthony’s excitement.
“You’re practically glowing, Ant,” Sam teased as she leaned against the kitchen counter, watching her brother prepare for the evening. “Are you sure you're not going to explode with happiness? You're practically bouncing off the walls.”
Anthony rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress the smile tugging at his lips. “I’m just... I’m really excited. I mean, it's Kenny. And it’s our fourth date, Sam. FOURTH,” he repeated for emphasis, as if the number itself had magical significance.
“You’re acting like it’s your wedding day or something,” Sam laughed, giving him a playful nudge. “Is there something you haven’t told me? Are you planning on asking Kenny to marry you while you’re at Golf n' Stuff?”
“If I do, I’ll let you know,” Anthony grinned, winking at his sister.
“Right, sure you will,” Sam said, her tone sarcastic but affectionate. “But seriously, you deserve to be this happy. I’m happy for you. Just... don’t forget about your family, okay? We’re still your number one, got it?”
Anthony nodded, his heart swelling with affection for his sister. “You’ll always be my number one, Sam.”
“Good. Now, go get ready, you’re going to be late if you keep standing there, drooling over Kenny in your head.”
Anthony laughed and shook his head, finally heading upstairs to change into his outfit for the evening. He didn’t want to overdo it, but he also didn’t want to look like he just rolled out of bed. It took him a while to decide on the perfect outfit—something casual yet stylish—but once he was dressed, he couldn’t help but glance at himself in the mirror. A soft smile spread across his face as he fixed his hair one last time. He was ready.
When he made his way downstairs, he was greeted by the sight of Johnny and Daniel sitting at the kitchen table, their eyes lighting up when they saw him. Johnny gave him a thumbs up, and Daniel simply smiled warmly.
“Looking good, kid,” Johnny said. “Are you sure you’ve got everything you need? You know, money, phone, wallet, that sort of thing?”
“Yes, Dad,” Anthony answered with a laugh. “I’m all set.”
“You know,” Daniel said, his voice surprisingly soft, “I’m really glad you’re doing this. Going out with someone who makes you happy... I can see it in your eyes. Have fun tonight, Anthony. And remember, no matter what, we’re here for you.”
“Thanks, Papa,” Anthony said, his heart swelling with gratitude. He didn’t think he could ask for a better family.
As Anthony stepped outside, the cool evening air brushed against his skin, and he couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement. He was going on a date with Kenny. Kenny, who had become such an important part of his life in such a short time. The idea that they were finally spending time together like this—alone, without distractions or worries—was enough to make Anthony’s heart skip a beat.
He was just about to get into the car when he heard the familiar sound of footsteps approaching from behind. He turned around just in time to see Kenny walking toward him, his usual relaxed yet slightly shy smile on his face. Kenny was dressed casually, in a well-fitted T-shirt and jeans, but somehow, he still looked absolutely perfect.
“Hey,” Kenny greeted him, his voice soft but filled with warmth. “You ready for our adventure?”
“I think so,” Anthony replied, his eyes sparkling. “Golf n' Stuff, here we come.”
Kenny chuckled and shook his head as he approached Anthony. “I can’t believe you’re so excited about mini-golf.”
“Hey, it’s a big deal,” Anthony said with a grin, opening the car door for Kenny. “It’s our fourth date. We have to make it memorable.”
Kenny raised an eyebrow as he slid into the passenger seat. “Fourth, huh? You’ve been counting?”
“Of course I’ve been counting,” Anthony admitted, laughing. “It’s not every day you get to go on a date with someone as amazing as you.”
Kenny’s cheeks flushed at the compliment, but he didn’t say anything in response. Instead, he just leaned back in his seat and let out a sigh, clearly enjoying the easygoing comfort between them.
The drive to Golf n' Stuff was filled with light conversation, jokes, and the occasional comfortable silence. Anthony found himself stealing glances at Kenny every now and then, unable to believe how lucky he was. This was really happening. He was here, on a date, with Kenny.
When they arrived, Anthony was practically bouncing in his seat, excitement radiating off him. “This is going to be so much fun,” he said, practically dragging Kenny out of the car. “You’re going to love it.”
Kenny laughed softly but didn’t seem to mind. “Alright, alright, let’s see what all the fuss is about.”
They made their way to the mini-golf course, where the neon lights flickered and the artificial grass glistened in the glow of the evening. The place was lively with families and couples, and the sound of laughter filled the air. It was the perfect setting for a date, and Anthony couldn’t wait to see how Kenny would react to everything.
“Okay,” Anthony said, grabbing the putter, “let’s see if you can beat me.”
Kenny grinned, though there was a playful twinkle in his eye. “I’m pretty good at this, you know.”
“Sure you are,” Anthony teased, “but don’t get too cocky. I’ve been practicing.”
They made their way through the course, Anthony focusing more on the fun of it than the actual game. With every swing of the putter, there were little moments where their hands brushed or their eyes met, and Anthony couldn’t help but feel a sense of warmth in his chest. It wasn’t just the game that made him feel so alive—it was Kenny. Everything about being with Kenny felt easy and right.
Kenny, for his part, was surprisingly competitive, though it was clear he was having fun too. They both missed shots here and there, but it only made the whole experience more enjoyable.
“Okay, so maybe you were right about the practice,” Kenny said with a chuckle after missing an easy shot.
“I told you,” Anthony grinned, doing a little victory dance.
Kenny rolled his eyes, laughing at Anthony’s antics. “You’re ridiculous.”
“I know,” Anthony agreed with a wink. “But you love it.”
Kenny’s smile softened, and for a moment, Anthony’s heart skipped a beat. There was something so genuine about the way Kenny looked at him, like he was the only person in the world.
After finishing the mini-golf course, they wandered over to the arcade. Anthony didn’t even hesitate before diving straight into a racing game, laughing as Kenny joined him. They competed for the highest score, cheering each other on and teasing each other when one of them failed a level. The sounds of the arcade—the beeps, the laughs, the clinking of coins—felt so comforting, like the world was still spinning, but all that mattered was the two of them.
Kenny was clearly enjoying himself, his usual shy nature disappearing in the face of all the fun. It was a side of him that Anthony cherished, the one that was carefree and happy, especially when it was just the two of them.
After spending an hour at the arcade, they grabbed some snacks—corn dogs and soda—and sat on a bench near the go-kart track, watching the cars zoom by. The night had fallen now, and the stars twinkled overhead, adding to the magic of the evening.
“This is perfect,” Anthony said, leaning back against the bench and looking at Kenny. “Seriously. I’m so glad we’re doing this.”
Kenny smiled at him, his eyes soft. “Me too. I’ve been looking forward to this all week.”
Anthony felt his heart swell. This wasn’t just a date—it was a chance to be himself, to be with someone who made him feel accepted and cherished. He didn’t need anything fancy or extravagant. Just being with Kenny was enough.
As they finished their snacks, Anthony turned to Kenny and couldn’t help himself. He leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to Kenny’s cheek. It wasn’t a passionate kiss, but it was filled with affection and warmth.
Kenny’s eyes widened slightly, but then a smile spread across his face. He kissed Anthony’s cheek in return, his lips lingering for just a moment longer than necessary. “You’re impossible,” Kenny teased.
“I know,” Anthony grinned. “But you like me anyway.”
“I guess I do,” Kenny admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.
The rest of the evening passed by in a blur of laughter, kisses, and shared moments of joy. Anthony couldn’t remember the last time he’d felt so at ease, so happy with someone. It was as if the world had finally fallen into place, and everything made sense. They were together, and that was all that mattered.
As they walked back to the car, their fingers brushed together, and Anthony couldn’t help but take Kenny’s hand in his. It was simple, but it felt perfect.
“I had an amazing time tonight,” Kenny said as they reached the car. He opened the door for Anthony with a grin. “Thanks for inviting me.”
“No, thank you for being here,” Anthony replied, his voice full of sincerity. “You’ve made this the best night ever.”
Kenny’s smile softened as he climbed into the car. “I’m glad. This was really special.”
They drove back in comfortable silence, the radio playing softly in the background. Anthony could feel the happiness bubbling inside him, ready to burst at the seams. Everything was so perfect, so right.
When they finally arrived at Anthony’s house, he turned to Kenny before getting out of the car.
“I’ll see you soon?” Anthony asked, his heart pounding in his chest.
Kenny nodded, his eyes sparkling. “Definitely.”
With one last kiss on the cheek, Anthony stepped out of the car, feeling like he was floating. This was just the beginning. Their relationship was growing, and with each passing day, Anthony’s feelings for Kenny only deepened.
He couldn’t wait to see where this journey would take them.
As Anthony stepped into the house, a contented sigh escaped his lips. His heart felt so full, as though it could burst with the happiness that had been building up all night. Kenny was just... incredible. He was funny, kind, and so, so easy to be around. Anthony had never felt more comfortable with someone in his entire life. They fit together like pieces of a puzzle, the way they laughed at the same jokes, the way they teased each other—everything felt effortless.
Anthony walked into the living room, and there, sitting on the couch, was his family. Sam was lounging with her feet propped up on the coffee table, scrolling through her phone, while Johnny and Daniel were watching a sports game on TV. The moment Anthony stepped into view, they all turned to look at him. Sam, of course, was the first to speak.
“So,” she said with an exaggerated grin, “how was your fourth date?”
Anthony felt his cheeks flush, but he couldn’t hide the grin that tugged at his lips. “It was amazing,” he replied, his voice practically bursting with excitement. “Kenny and I went to Golf n’ Stuff and then the arcade. It was the best night ever.”
Johnny, who had been watching the game but had clearly been listening, gave him a knowing smile. “I’m glad to hear that, kiddo. You deserve to have a good time.”
Daniel, always the soft-spoken one, added with a smile, “I’m happy for you, Anthony. You two seem really great together.”
Anthony's heart swelled hearing that. He had always feared what his parents might think, especially with the way his relationship with Kenny had developed so quickly. But here they were, offering nothing but support. It meant the world to him.
“You should’ve seen it, Sam,” Anthony continued, his energy practically radiating from him. “We were terrible at mini-golf, but we were laughing the entire time. And the arcade... I think Kenny might be more competitive than he lets on.”
Sam raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “You’re telling me Kenny’s got a bit of a competitive streak?”
Anthony nodded enthusiastically. “Oh yeah, I thought I was going to win for sure, but then Kenny somehow managed to beat me at that racing game. I still don’t know how he pulled it off.”
Sam let out a dramatic sigh. “Typical. First, you get the cute guy, and now he’s beating you at games. Some people really do have it all.”
Johnny chuckled, leaning back in his seat. “Sounds like a fun time, kid. So, what’s next? Are you and Kenny planning on going out again soon?”
Before Anthony could respond, Sam jumped in with her usual teasing tone. “Come on, Anthony. You can’t be this happy just about mini-golf. What else happened? Did you kiss him again?”
Anthony’s face heated up, and he felt a flutter in his chest at the thought of Kenny’s soft lips against his. “Uh, yeah. We did,” he muttered, a slight blush colouring his cheeks.
Sam let out an exaggerated gasp. “I knew it! So, you two are really into each other, huh?”
Anthony nodded, his smile only growing wider. “Yeah, we are. It’s... it’s really great. I’ve never felt this way before.”
His parents exchanged a look, clearly pleased. “We’re happy for you, Anthony,” Daniel said warmly, his voice full of reassurance. “We just want you to be happy.”
Anthony felt his chest tighten with gratitude. It was all so overwhelming in the best way. Kenny had been there for him through the ups and downs, and now, to have his family supporting him too... it was all a dream come true.
“Thanks, Dad. Thanks, Papa,” he replied, his voice thick with emotion. “I didn’t expect any of this to happen, but... I’m so glad it did.”
Sam smiled teasingly, sitting up on the couch and pulling her feet down. “So, when’s the next date? Are you going to make Kenny take you somewhere even more embarrassing than mini-golf?”
Anthony rolled his eyes but couldn’t help the laughter that bubbled up. “Maybe,” he said, sitting down beside her. “But for now, I’m just going to enjoy tonight.”
Sam raised an eyebrow, her teasing expression softening slightly. “I get it. You’re just happy. I mean, who wouldn’t be, right? Kenny’s a great guy. You’re lucky.”
Anthony felt a wave of warmth at his sister’s words. She had always been the protective one, but now, seeing her support him in this, made him feel all the more thankful. “I know,” he said softly. “I’m really lucky.”
As the evening wore on, the family continued to talk, laugh, and share stories, but Anthony’s mind kept drifting back to Kenny. He wondered what Kenny was doing right now—if he was thinking about Anthony as much as Anthony was thinking about him. The thought of their next date made his heart flutter with anticipation. They had already made so many wonderful memories, but there was still so much more ahead of them. Anthony couldn’t wait to see where things went next.
Later that night, after the laughter had died down and everyone had headed off to bed, Anthony sat in his room, staring at his phone. His thumb hovered over the message app, and he felt a flutter in his chest as he looked at the last text Kenny had sent him earlier that evening. He hadn’t been able to stop smiling since.
Kenny: I had an amazing time with you tonight, Anthony. Can’t wait for our next date. :)
Anthony smiled as he reread the message, feeling that familiar warmth spread through his chest. He quickly typed out a reply:
Anthony: Me too. I had the best time ever. I really like you, Kenny. Can’t wait for the next one. :)
He hit send and placed his phone down on his nightstand, feeling that familiar sense of happiness, the one he couldn’t seem to shake no matter how much he tried. He knew it was early days, but he was more than willing to let himself fall for Kenny. Kenny made him feel seen, appreciated, and loved in a way that Anthony had never felt before. And it was real. He didn’t have to pretend with Kenny. He could just be himself, and that was more than he could have ever hoped for.
As he lay in bed, Anthony closed his eyes, thinking of Kenny, of their fourth date, and of everything that was yet to come. He had never been so sure of anything in his life. The future felt bright, and he couldn’t wait to keep making memories with Kenny by his side.
With that thought, Anthony drifted off to sleep, a smile on his face and his heart full.
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Author's Note!
I’m really sorry for the long wait—it’s been about three months since my last update! I hope you enjoyed this chapter, though. Also, I may have lied… Kenthony aren’t getting their happy ending just yet, haha. Stay tuned for the next chapter—I’ll be posting it soon, so you won’t have to wait another three months!
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