Adam and I take our seats, thanking Dylan for saving a spot for us.
The place really is cozy, filled with the soft glow of ambient lighting and the rich aroma of hops and malt. I’m not much of a beer drinker, but I could definitely see hanging out here more often. It feels like a place you take your closest friends to just hang out.
“Adam here said you were meant to go to the zoo today. Did you have fun?” Dylan asks, his eyes twinkling with a mix of curiosity and amusement.
Adam chuckles. “Yeah, we did, actually. Carlie here has a way with animals. Turns out, she’s quite the penguin whisperer.”
I can’t help but laugh. “Well, someone had to show Adam the ropes. He’s more at home with weights than wildlife, it seems.”
Dylan laughs along with us, and the conversation flows easily. We talk about our day, sharing stories and observations from the zoo. Dylan seems genuinely interested, and his easygoing nature makes it feel like we’ve all been friends for years.
Just as we’re deep into discussing our favorite animals, Brian shows up at our table with a wide grin on his face. “I see Dylan was able to get the party started without me. Hope you’re talking all good things about my brewery.”
“We were just getting to that,” I say, smiling at Brian. “This place is fantastic. You’ve done an amazing job with it.”
Brian beams, pride emanating from his eyes. “Thanks, Carlie. It’s been a journey, that’s for sure. But definitely worth it looking back. So, what did I miss?”
Dylan jumps in with a toothy grin. “Just some zoo tales and penguin escapades. You know, the usual.”
We all share a laugh, and Brian pulls up a chair, joining our little group.
The evening progresses with more shared stories, laughter, and a few rounds of Brian’s finest brews. The camaraderie among us is palpable, and I find myself completely at ease, enjoying the company and the lively atmosphere of the brewery.
As the evening wears on, the conversation shifts from casual banter to plans for upcoming events at the brewery, local happenings, and even a bit of good-natured ribbing between the guys. Brian and Dylan take turns teasing Adam about his newfound appreciation for the animal kingdom, while Adam dishes it right back with anecdotes from their past.
In the midst of their teasing, I see an opening for a bit of my own brand of humor.
With lowered eyebrows, I interject, “Yeah, watch out Adam, I’m picking up all sorts of animal-handling tips. Next thing you know, I’ll be wrangling personal trainers.”
My remark earns a round of surprised laughter, and Adam’s look of mock horror only adds to the fun.
The time flies by, and before we know it, the sky outside has darkened, and my stomach rumbles.
Brian stands up, stretching. “Well, folks, I should get back to overseeing things. You’re welcome to stay as long as you like. Drinks are on the house.”
“As awesome as that is,” Dylan begins, also getting up and giving us a friendly nod. “I gotta bolt, too. Great hanging out with you guys. Let’s do this again soon, yeah?”
Adam and I thank them, and after saying our goodbyes, we decide it’s time to head out as well. Stepping outside, the cool night air feels refreshing after the warmth of the brewery.
The streets are quieter now, the hustle of the day giving way to the peaceful calm of the evening.
“So, dinner?” Adam asks, a hopeful note in his voice.
“Definitely,” I reply, feeling a pleasant buzz from the beer and the company. “I’m starving.”
We walk down the sidewalk, chatting about the evening and where to grab dinner.
The night is still young, and the possibilities seem endless. I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation for what the rest of the night holds.
Together, we step into the night, ready for whatever adventure comes next.
CHAPTER25
Adam
As I stir the sauce, I glance over at Carlie, who’s leaning casually against my kitchen counter watching me with such an intensity, it heats every part of me.
Her presence fills the kitchen, making it feel more like a home than it ever has.