Prompt 024: Family

Alex Louis Armstrong

Word Count: 684

Notes: Please bear with me on this one; I couldn't completely remember how it really played out.

It was almost time.

Alex Louis Armstrong checked his watch again. Very soon.

As he stood by the large window, he could see a black car pull in to the side of the road. It was time.

He watched as a blonde hair man stepped out, watching in awe of the Armstrong Mansion. He promptly turned around and tried to step back into the car. Some other people pushed him back out.

So, he was shy, eh?

Maybe he needed a warmer welcome…

Alex burst through the door, "Welcome to the Armstrong family home!" He saw Jean Havoc jump into the air. Alex grabbed him in a monstrous bear hug. And even though he tried not too, he got emotional over this moment. Tears slipped unheeded down his face. This could just as well be his brother-in-law if Katharine wished it.

Putting him down, he guided him towards the house. Telling him the history of the Armstrong house as they walked down the long pathway.

"…My great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-Grandfather built this mansion with his own two hands and a hammer. Need I say more about the awesomeness of the Armstrong heritage?"

Jean shook his head.

"But I must. The wonder of that building technique has been passed on to generation to generation…"

They opened the front door and were greeted by Louis Armstrong who also pulled Jean into a bear hug. This could just as well be his son-in-law if Katharine wished it.

As they walked down the carpeted hallway, his father told the story of all the items and pictures they passed.

"...And this hand-blown glass vase by my great-great-great uncle. But his wonders of glass—making was not lost but passed down the Armstrong line!" His father knew how to perfectly tell the stories of the family. Alex hoped he could perfect his story telling in the future.

He realized that Jean had not said one word since arriving. Alex decided that he must be mesmerized by the history of the Armstrongs'.

They sat in the dining room, his father's talented story telling of the houses' history made tears run down Alex's cheeks.

And then his mother entered, her tall, regal elegance sending a shining light through the room.

Jean nearly jumped out of his chair. He must be startled by her beauty.

"Now, husband," she said, placing her hand on Louis' shoulder. "Do not bore the young man with are history. This night is for Katharine."

"Where is that girl, anyway?" Louis asked joyfully.

"I'm right here." Said the sweet, melodious voice of his sister. His mother took step to the side to reveal his beautiful little sister. Her long, dark golden hair spilled over her slender shoulders. Her graceful body held majestically. Her big, very green eyes watched Havoc.

They were both quiet for awhile. Alex decided they needed help.

"My beautiful little sister, Katharine Marie Armstrong. Meet Lieutenant Jean Havoc, Katharine."

"Hello, Mr. Havoc," she said shyly, with a sweet smile.

"It is an honor to meet you, Miss Katharine," He bowed quite formally, "May I ask what is it you have acquired from the Armstrong line?"

"Well," She said thoughtfully, "I like to paint and sew, cook, clean and, oh yes, play the piano."

Jean looked like he could dance through a patch of wildflowers.

"Or sometimes," Katharine added, "I like to play under the piano," she picked up the baby grand piano in the corner of the room.

Jean's eyes almost popped out of his head. But to Alex, he looked impressed.

Jean cleared his throat as she put the piano down.

"Miss Katharine Armstrong," Jean started.

"Yes?" She whispered.

"Would you do me the great honor of bringing you out on a date?"

"Well," Katharine said, "I've always waited my whole life for this moment, and I've always dreamed of a guy like you, but—

–I've always imagined him to look more like my brother, physically."

Jean looked as if a sword had been rammed into his head.

Alex felt compelled right then and there to throw off his shirt.

More waiting would have to be done before Katharine made her pick. He was so very proud of his sister.