As the bus rolled along, Chen couldn't help but notice the radiant smile on Book's face. It was a welcome sight, considering the challenges Book had faced in recent months.
Gathering his courage, Chen decided it was time to broach a sensitive topic.
"Hey, Book," Chen began tentatively, "can I ask you something?"
Book turned to him with a curious expression. "Sure, what's on your mind?"
Chen hesitated for a moment before plunging ahead. "What kind of person do you like?"
Book's brows furrowed in confusion, but he smiled nonetheless. "Why do you ask?"
"Just curious," Chen replied, trying to sound casual.
Book pondered for a moment before answering, "I guess I'd like someone who can understand me and never resort to violence, no matter the circumstances."
Chen couldn't help but giggle inwardly, knowing he fit both criteria perfectly.
"And what about you?" Book inquired, turning the question back on Chen.
Chen felt his cheeks flush with embarrassment. "I, uh, I like someone who can listen to me for hours without judgment."
Book smirked knowingly. "So, do you want me to be your boyfriend?"
Chen's heart skipped a beat, but before he could respond, Book burst into laughter. "Just kidding," he said, patting Chen on the shoulder playfully.
As they neared Book's stop, Chen offered to accompany him home, but Book declined, citing the distance and the fading daylight.
Disappointed, Chen watched as Book disembarked, his cheeks still tinged with a blush.
Meanwhile, Force, feeling a twinge of jealousy, bombarded Book's phone with messages.
Book ignored them all until he stepped off the bus, at which point he promptly called Force."Hey, Force," Book said cheerfully, "just got off the bus. Heading home now."
Relief flooded Force's voice. "Is Chen with you?"
Book chuckled. "Yeah, he was, but don't worry, he's gone now."
Force sighed with relief, feeling a warmth spread through him at the sound of Book's laughter. "Okay, make sure you get home safely."
"Will do," Book replied before ending the call.
As Force hung up, a smile spread across his face. Despite the momentary jealousy, he couldn't deny the joy of hearing Book's voice after so long.