Chapter 34 – First Time

“What to wear, what to wear?” He thought to himself, looking through his wardrobe. Emerson was usually so calculated with the proper tools to concoct an appropriate attire for an event. But nothing screamed “dance party” to him. 

Granted he’d never been to such an event. He grabbed his laptop and began to type “Warehouse dance party attire men,” into the web browser. The results were unflattering and unobtainable on such short notice. Despite that, he was determined to find the right outfit. It seemed Duncan had made an impression on him. He was finally taking a risk by opening himself up to new experiences. He understood how cruel the world could be, especially in his line of work. Nothing lasts forever, even pain. If he couldn’t escape his old life, this was a chance to start living it.

With another knock on the door and it was time to begin what would hope to be an unforgettable night. He opened the door to the smiling man on the other side. It wasn’t long until Duncan gave him a review on his attire.

“Ah… so what are you supposed to be? A hipster going to a coffee shop?” He grinned with

the rhetorical questions. “Let’s see what we have to work with,” Duncan immediately

walked through the door and proceeded to the bedroom.

Emerson stood in the doorway, closing it slowly behind him. He was somewhat turned on

by this display of assertiveness and determination Duncan exuded. 

His handy work did wonders to create a presentable outfit. The two grabbed their things and made a pit stop for a quick bite to eat. Their attire would not be welcomed at the Gold Finch. Nor would they want to go there because the warehouse district was on the other side of town.

“There’s this little Izakaya a couple blocks down from the venue, they have some craft

soju cocktails and pretty good chicken karaage.” He suggested he drafted their ride. 

“Sure, that sounds good. I will let you take the lead tonight.” Smiling and then wrapping his arm around his shoulder. 

After dinner, the two made their way to the warehouse. Emerson had a pretty good head of his shoulders going into the event. Though he was nervous attending such a large event where he was sure to stick out. The warehouse looked dead from the outside but the line of people outside told a different story. He began to tense his shoulders in an upright position along the way. 

“Hey there’s no need to be nervous, you’ll do fine.” Duncan said as to comfort him. He could tell that he was having second thoughts on the event. “Let’s get a drink when we first get in and just enjoy the music.” He clasped Emerson’s hand and began to take the lead.

Once inside, the two made their way past coat check and straight to the bar. Along the way, they passed by the main stage. It was truly a spectacle of lights, sounds and various outfits that amplified his senses. Emerson was amazed by how many people this event catered to. People from all walks of life came together to have a good time. Some made a statement in club attire, other wore harnesses with mesh, but overall the group was quite diverse.

“How do we dance to this?” He mouthed as he began to bob his head. 

“It’s not a question of how, more so of when. Just let the music take you over.” He said as

he gestured his hands in all types of motions. “There’s no one way of dancing, you’re not a dance queen.” It was a comment they both enjoy as he tried again. 

Amongst the thick air of smoke, the lights danced so effortlessly as though the two were

intertwined. The lights dimmed as the next song came on. Over the increasing beat, a smooth melodic voice began to fill both of their heads. 

“Oh, this is one of my favorites, just wait for the drop,” he said as they unclasped

hands.

Emerson had no idea what a drop was but knew it when he noticed others start to head bang in unison. His eyes widened and took a big breath of processed air. It wasn’t long till he joined in. 

As the song began to decrescendo all he could hear were the pure emotions of the lyrics,

“Feels like we’re falling for the first time, oh, this is exactly what it feels like.” The lights were still dancing above their heads. All Emerson could think of was James. The love they shared and the love lost. But this was not the time or place. He quickly jolted out of that state of longing to enjoy the moment.  Out of the weary haze, all he could see was Duncan. The guy had been dancing, naturally, like no one was looking at him.

In a moment of impulse, he wrapped his body over his shoulders and the two began to sway together. As the song came to a close, Duncan turned around and looked Emerson dead in the eye. Mesmerized by those piercing blue eyes, he leaned in for a long kiss. Afterwards, wrapped his arms around his neck and pressed foreheads against one another as the last couple beats made their exit.