“First off, I’m not a doctor. I’m a licensed therapist. Second, it depends on the woman. You find out what her interests are and see if they mesh with yours. Successful relationships are founded on shared ideas and shared interests. Most men can’t see beyond what they want.”

Top smirked. “Tits and ass?”

“Did you get any sensitivity training in the Corps that stuck?”

“I’m kidding. Keep your tighty-whiteys on.”

Xavier laughed.

“If you’re so smart, how come you’re not married?”

“Haven’t found the right woman yet. What about you?”

“Tough to find a gal around here who’s not into ‘feelings’ and ‘communicating,’” Top ended in air quotes.

Xavier sighed. “You do realize I’m into feelings and communicating.”

“But that’s your job. All I know is when you’re with the right person, you feel it in here.” Top thumped his chest. “I was married for a time. I know what love feels like.”

That was more sharing than Top had ever expressed. But before Xavier could ask what had happened to that marriage, Benji, Xavier’s neighbor in 2B, waltzed into the courtyard carrying a paper sack and a fountain drink, his backpack slung over one shoulder.

He stopped in his tracks upon spotting Top.

Top grunted, gave Benji the stink eye, and left without a word.

“Join me,” Xavier invited, knowing if he didn’t, his neighbor would likely hot-foot it up to his room and not venture out again until he had to go into work. Benji was a mega-introvert with social anxiety. Xavier couldn’t relate, as he liked people, but he knew just how to handle anxiety.

“I don’t want to intrude.” Benji edged toward the doorway.

“Nah. I’m lonely. Come sit by me.”

Benji held up his food and drink. “I was going to eat dinner...”

“Perfect. I already ate. Now I get company.” Xavier smiled and waited.

Benji ambled closer before finally lowering his backpack and taking a seat. A good couple of inches taller than Xavier but leaner, the guy had to be close to his own age and did well enough working in the tech field. Xavier had a feeling Benji made a pretty decent salary but didn’t want more than a small apartment close to downtown Fremont.

The guy seemed to be trying to hide behind bad grooming. His unkempt full beard and mustache made him look a bit slovenly. His shaggy hair in desperate need of a cut didn’t help any. A lumbering giant who dressed in pop culture tee-shirts and shorts, no matter the weather, Benji had a surprising sense of humor under all the facial fur.

“So Top wasn’t good enough company?” Benji took a sip from his drink and pulled out a few mouthwatering burgers.

Xavier had lied. He hadn’t yet eaten, but he hadn’t seen or talked to Benji in a few days. He kept doodling and promised himself a meal after hanging with his shy friend.

“Top was just fine. And don’t say that too loudly or he might gut you when you’re not looking.” He glanced at Benji, saw him pale, and laughed. “Kidding, man.”