Page 97 of Once in a Lifetime, Part 2

The tension slipped from Mano’s face.

Ody chuckled. “What did that dirty brain of yours think? Seriously, no shame?”

Mano’s gaze flicked to him, then away. “You weren’t ashamed yesterday either.”

Ody smirked as he walked up to him.

“I’ll teach you how to play guitar, and you’ll teach me how to cook.” Mano nudged him back. “Now go sit on the couch and let me finish breakfast.”

“Yes, sir,” Ody said with a mischievous grin, heading for the couch.

Once it was ready, Mano brought the plates to the living room, the TV playing low.

“Thank you,” Ody said, smiling as he took his.

They started eating.

“Mano?” Ody asked, mid-chew.

“Mm?”

Ody glanced at him while Mano kept his eyes on the TV. “If someone saw us on the street…” He swallowed. “Who do you think would look like they’re in charge?”

Mano choked on his egg, coughing. “What kind of question is that? I almost choked.” He shot him a look, reaching for his water.

“I’m serious. To someone who doesn’t know us… who looks more dominant?”

“Me.” Mano didn’t look at him.

“What do you mean, you? Why you?”

“Because. End of story.”

“Nooo! You need to justify that answer.” Ody gestured dramatically.

Mano turned to him, fork in hand. “Mikre, I graduated high school five years ago.”

“Come on, tell me.” Ody tapped his arm. “Why you? I mean, I’m taller.”

“Yeah, but I’m bigger,” Mano said.

Ody’s gaze dropped, lingering. “Bigger how?”

Mano smacked his shoulder. “Mikre…”

Ody grinned. “I love it when you call me that.”

“I’m more built than you. I look older. End of story.”

“Yeah, right. Ranya’s friend thought you were twenty-one and I was twenty-three.”

“Ranya’s friend couldn’t see for shit,” Mano muttered, returning to his food.

Ody leaned back. “I think if someone got to know us, they’d think you’re the one in charge.”

“That’s because I am.”

“You are?” Ody raised an eyebrow.