The Name's Datta

Charlie waved his hand.

"To be truthful, I wasn't in the mood for a date. Women are so hard to handle."

"I know, right? I never understand them--I don't even know what I did to make Gaz leave before we even ordered the food. I wish I could say it was a record, too..."

"I don't like Gaz, anyway." He said truthfully. "She's nosy."

"Think so?" he asked, sipping his water. "I didn't really notice--well, actually, she wouldn't shut up about you, but that was it."

"That's exactly what I mean. Some people can't mind their own business."

"Like you?" he teased.

He flushed slightly red.

"What are you talking about? I always mind my own business."

"Except for when it's my business, that is."

"We're partners. Your business is my business."

He smirked, trying not to laugh.

"...Yes, I suppose. Ah, the food is here!" he said happiyl as a waiter dropped off their plates. "It smells delicious, doesn't it?"

Charlie nodded.

"Of course~ I'm glad to be eating out with you, Benoit~"

He smiled genuinely at Charlie.

"The feeling is mutual, my friend."

He blushed.

"I'm glad~"

Benoit ate in silence, focusing completely on his food.

Charlie mainly toyed with his food, lovingly watching Benoit eat.

And thus, the meal went by uneventfully; Benoit hardly spoke until the reached the car.

"...What's wrong with me, Charlie?" he asked, as they exited onto the freeway.

Charlie frowned deeply.

"What are you taking about?"

"I've been on hundreds of dates throughout my life, and I can still count the number of successful ones with my fingers. My parents have been waiting for a daughter-in-law and grandchildren for years, but...I can't do it. There's something wrong with me; women never stick around past the first date."

Charlie reached over and laid his hand on Benoit's shoulder.

"Don't worry about it too much. I'm sure you'll find someone special. In fact, you probably already have~" He said happily.

Benoit laughed hollowly.

"I don't know any women."

Charlie just nodded.

"Well, I'm sure everything will turn out alright. It has to."

"I hope you're right," he said quietly. When they arrived home, Benoit immediately went to the bedroom; he just wanted to change into his jimjams and fall asleep.

Charlie followed him.

"Benoit, wait, I think I know how to cheer you up!" He clapped his hands together happily.

Benoit paused, confused.

"What is it, Charlie?"

"Well, uhm..." Charlie smiled at him, his face turning a deep red. "I-I love you."