“That’s the goal. Now, can we celebrate your engagement? I’ve had tonight’s reservation at Del Frisco’s for three weeks.”
Brooke’s mouth dropped open. “You knew! Why didn’t you tell me?”
“Aw, now, that wouldn’t be keeping it a surprise, would it? Who do you think helped Kyle pick out the ring? Who gave him the fucking pep talk that he needed so he’d propose before someone else—including me—scooped you up? I wouldn’t be too opposed to a lavender marriage if you let me go out and get laid every now and then.”
I’d helped Kyle plan the proposal. He’d danced around whether it was the right time to do it because they were in their early twenties, but I’d reminded him they didn’t need to get married in a month.
When it came down to it, Kyle had found his balls and stepped up. I was proud of him, and I could see Brooke was beyond thrilled.
“Fine, I’ll use your car. Does it need gas?” Usually when Brooke volunteered her car, it needed gas.
She stuck out her tongue, tossed me the keys, and laughed as she walked away. We’d need to discuss living arrangements after the new year. No way was I living with them now that they were getting married.
When I finished up for the day, I hugged both of them goodbye and went home to pack my things. I sent my father a text.
I’m leaving now. I should be home in a few hours, depending on traffic. Can we get pizza from Goodies? ILY
My childhood home was in McLean, VA. While it was only about forty-eight miles, the sheer volume of cars and trucks on the highway could make the trip take more than two hours. I hoped to hell that wasn’t the case since I was leaving at an odd time of day.
I packed a bag for the week, grabbed the few presents I had for Mom and Dad, and after the car was packed, I wrote a note for Brooke and Kyle.
Dear Betrothed,
I want you guys to have a wonderful holiday. I should be back on the twenty-ninth. Please have all your clothes on when I return. I don’t need to see naughty bits. They’ll scar me for life—especially the girlie ones.
I love you both, and I’m happy for you. Can’t wait to give you my two cents on your wedding plans.
Love,
Aves
I grabbed a few cans of fizzy water and a cereal bar for the road, and I went down to the garage. Once I pulled out, I found the streets were easily navigated, so I went along my merry way, Christmas music blasting on the radio.
I arrived an hour later than anticipated due to holiday traffic. Everybody and their brother had the same idea—let’s leave work early and get a jump on holiday travel.
When I pulled into my parents’ driveway, Dad was busy sweeping the light dusting of snow from the sidewalk. My parents always had a cocktail party on December 23, and seeing all the lights and decorations in the yard and on the front porch, I could tell this year was no exception.
I parked in front of the storage shed to the left of the attached garage and got out of the car, gathering my suitcase and the large bag with their gifts.
“Let me get that.” Dad stepped closer and took my suitcase.
“Merry Christmas, Dad. I’ve got it.” Obviously, the usual kid glove treatment was the order of the day.
“How was the drive?”
“Some traffic, but pretty smooth.”
“We lucked out. The snow is staying mostly north. We were just on the tail edge of this round, but tomorrow and Christmas Day we’re supposed to get dumped on. Glad you came early.”
Dad ushered me onto the front porch where we both removed our shoes to carry inside. I was sure the caterers would be along any minute, and Mom would have a fit if we walked in with dirty shoes.
“I see you’re gearing up for the party tonight.” I pointed to the chafing dishes and champagne flutes spread out on the counters and breakfast table.
Dad barked a laugh. "Yeah, it's not anything you haven’t survived before. Speaking of...how are you feeling? You look good, son.”
I took off my coat and slid it around the back of a chair before hugging my dad. “I’m great, Dad. I found a new gym, and I work out four times a week.”
Of course, he knew nothing about my romantic pursuits of late. Neither did Mom. I could imagine her telling me that sex might kill me, and I couldn’t gotherewith her.
