Asher was tempted to make a comment about Zach being on top, but he thought he should save it for later. Instead he approached the tree and hung the ornament as high as he could safely place it. The last thing he wanted was to be responsible for Zach’s ornament falling off the tree and breaking.
“You don’t change a tradition,” he said as he returned to Zach’s side. “How’s that?”
“Perfect!” Zach nodded his approval.
Katherine brought out a delicate crystal star, and Mark placed it at the top of the tree. Mikey was given the honor of turning on the lights so they could admire their efforts. To Asher, it was even more beautiful than the professionally decorated trees he grew up with. Those were tasteful and expensive, but they weren’t personal, not like this tree.
Asher drew Zach aside and spoke quietly. “I don’t have any family that I’d want you to meet,” he said. “But I do have a best friend who’s been like a brother to me since college. He and his wife are having their annual holiday party next Saturday. I’d like you to go with me and meet them.”
Zach started, as though surprised by the invitation, but then he smiled widely. “Thank you. I’d love to go with you.”
Asher smiled back, relieved Zach had accepted the invitation. Hopefully, Zach would see it was Asher’s way of trying to open up his life to include Zach, but more than that, it would be a clear statement that they were dating. It was a little nerve-racking to think about making their relationship public, but he was ready to take that step.
Asher Caldwell was officially off the market and happy to be so.
