A Romantic Night on the Shores of Sardinia

Doppio was at the grocery store, buying ingredients for cookies. It was for the picnic he had planned with Diavolo, and he couldn’t decide whether to make regular old chocolate chip cookies or snickerdoodles.

Diavolo bumped into him before he could decide. “Oh, Doppio! Sorry for bumping into you, but I was thinking about what to make for the picnic.”

Doppio noticed the expensive bottle of red wine next to some produce in his basket and knew what to make. “It’s alright. I finally decided what to make.”

“Oh? Are you cooking something?”

“Baking. I can’t wait to see what you’ll bring.”

Doppio wondered if it would be enough and thought about buying more food. “I’ll bring more than just cookies.”

“Take your time. I’ll buy the candles and silverware.”

Diavolo had some elegant taste, making Doppio feel like his cookie idea was childish. He put the ingredients and headed to where the fresh fruits were, arms reaching for the grapes until he remembered Diavolo was bringing wine. He would’ve gotten strawberries but planned on making strawberry-flavored cookies. Doppio sighed, settling for the cherries on sale and buying some cute pink napkins on the way to the cashier.

-

Immediately after heading home, Doppio prepared to make the secret cookies. While he brought out the bowl, he still felt like he wasn’t bringing enough to the picnic.

A few days ago, Doppio had bought a baguette for his soup. He could use that to make crostini, but what should he top it with? He searched the fridge for something and saw some prosciutto, Roma tomatoes, and Boursin cheese.

He looked at the time to see if there was enough time, and it was only 2 PM—the picnic was at 6. Since Diavolo expected the macarons, he worked on that first before making the crostini.

As Doppio cracked some eggs, separating the yolk from the egg whites, he couldn’t stop thinking about what to wear. He loved his sweater, but maybe he should switch up his style. Perhaps a white dress shirt and some slacks would please Diavolo. Oh, but what color should his slacks be? Tan or black?

Lost in thought, Doppio broke an egg on his counter. “Ugh! I hope Boss isn’t having this much trouble.”

-

Diavolo finished making the herby cucumber salad with feta cheese and chickpeas, but he didn’t feel satisfied. Making salad was so simple, yet whatever Doppio planned seemed complex. Diavolo can cook, but Doppio is more into baking. What could he cook? Last night, he had shrimp fra diavolo and thought about using shrimp he didn’t cook. Doppio didn’t seem like the type to enjoy something spicy. Maybe sweet and sour shrimp will sate his tastebuds, but he’ll cook after he showers.

Preparing what to wear before showering, he looked into his drawers and decided on the striped suit. Since he was the boss, he was in charge of his clothing but wanted to look professional. Thinking about his outfit, he found it funny how he spent his time with Doppio wearing his casual clothes instead of his suit despite working in the same building.

When Diavolo got out of the shower and dressed, he went into the kitchen to make sweet and sour shrimp. The picnic basket was on the table, and he placed the salad, wine, wine glasses, dining utensils, and shrimp once he finished cooking it. Hopefully, it wasn’t too much.

It was almost time to leave, and he called Doppio, reminding him it was time to head to the beach.

“B-boss!” Doppio panicked. “Wait, was the picnic now? I thought it was in an hour? Oh, no! I’m so sorry.”

Diavolo giggled. “Doppio, I’m calling just to remind you.”

“Oh.” He sounded calmer. “I’m ready. I guess I’ll head there now.”

-

It was time for the picnic. Diavolo picked up some roses for Doppio while on the way and a surprise in his pocket. Doppio had texted him that he’ll be under a tree with a pink checkered picnic blanket.

“There you are,” Diavolo said. “You’re looking fine.” He handed him the flowers.

Doppio took them, blushing. “Oh, really? Hmm, have I seen you wear that suit before?”

“It’s one of the suits I wear to work.” He sat down. “I brought us some salad and shrimp on a skewer. I made the shrimp before I left. Hopefully, it’s not too hot. Oh, let’s not forget the wine.” He set up the candles and handed Doppio a plate and a wine glass.

Doppio took out his food from his picnic basket. “I brought strawberry macarons, some cherries, and crostini. Do you think this is too much to eat?”

“I had a light lunch. If you can’t eat the rest, I’ll take them.” He eyed the macarons and grabbed one. “I should eat the salad or crostini first, but these look irresistible.” He took a bite. “Wow, Doppio, I’m surprised you haven’t started a bakery.”

“I thought about it, but I honestly have no idea how to start one. Besides, I like working for you.”

“Come here, you.”

The two leaned in for a kiss. They hadn’t eaten or taken a sip of wine, but they got touchy and physical, hugging tightly and kissing passionately. They would’ve been sweaty if it weren’t for the ocean breeze that suddenly kicked in.

Diavolo panted when he withdrew from the kiss. “God, Doppio, I need you by my side.”

“Boss, I want to be with you!” Doppio flung himself towards him.

He hugged him again, kissing and caressing his cheek. “Oh, my sweet Doppio, I want to give you something.”

He withdrew from the hug. “What is it?”

Diavolo pulled out a box with a ring inside. “Marry me? I think it’s time we make it official.”

“Oh my gosh! I don’t know what to say! I’m probably a sweaty mess! Of course, I’ll marry you! Should I pack my things after dinner, o-or should I do it tomorrow?”

Diavolo laughed while his stomach growled. “Whichever you prefer, my Doppio. I’m getting hungry. I feel like I could eat all the food you brought.”

Doppio took some salad and shrimp, sampling them. “Your food is so good, though! You’re telling me to start a bakery, but you’re the one who should be opening a restaurant.”

He poured him and himself a glass of wine. “Maybe, but it would’ve taken me longer to buy that ring for you.”

“I wouldn’t mind. I always felt we didn’t need a ring to prove we were meant to be together.”

“Oh, Doppio, I love you so much.”

“I love you too.” He fed Diavolo his salad. “Come on. You haven’t touched the food you brought.”

“Neither have you.” He put a cherry in his mouth, pulling the stem once Doppio bit into it.

They both ate the food until they were full and stayed a while to enjoy the ocean view.