Luke was already awake when Noah opened his eyes the next morning. He sat up in bed and watched his husband jot notes down on a legal pad. He looked like he was deep in thought, chewing idly on a pen every few seconds before writing something else down. It didn't escape Noah's attention that Luke was shirtless. He loved looking at those broad shoulders and the muscles in his back. He sighed and threw back the covers, his feet hitting the carpet with a soft thud.
"Good morning, love," Luke said without looking up from the paper. He was writing again and Noah came over to wrap his arms around him, kissing his neck before stealing a kiss greedily. "That's a nice morning treat," Luke grinned and abandoned what he was doing.
"How long have you been awake," Noah asked pulling Luke out of the chair, switching places with him and pulling his husband into his lap.
"I've been up since the moment you kissed me," Luke teased.
"Oh hush," Noah said nipping at his ear. "You know what I meant."
Luke smiled and reached for the pad of paper on the desk. "I haven't been awake too long," he explained. "Just about an hour. I was just thinking about Dad's gift. I wrote down all the pros and cons…I figured we could talk about it some more."
"So pros and cons huh?" Noah said smiling. "Well why don't you tell me what you've come up with so far, and then I can give you mine and we can talk about them and come to a decision."
Luke smiled appreciatively and glanced at the paper before putting it down on the table again. "Well, okay we can start with the cons. We'll be further away from School, and from work. Now those two don't really matter…considering we drive but I figured I'd put them down there anyway. There will be a little less privacy since Dad is right up the road…but that's not really a con either because Dad respects our privacy all the time. I don't know…can you think of any reasons not to?"
"Well it would mean more upkeep of the yard," Noah pointed out, "and house and possibly some extra bills that we don't have now, but those are things that we can work around pretty easily."
"Yeah, growing up on a farm does have such advantages. I love working outside so I think I can handle the upkeep of the yard. I did put the bills on my list, and we essentially are going to own this property and that means property taxes and insurance, plus utilities that we don't pay now but I think we can work around that too. We won't be close to any stores…but that won't be a problem either. And we can have a garden, and grow flowers and vegetables. So while we'll have to put out more money for bills…we can save some as well."
"I know you mentioned Dad," Noah added, "have you given any thoughts to the kids? Faith and Natalie are big enough to disappear from the farm without much notice. I have no problem with them showing up at the house, however, it would mean that we would have to be a little more discreet than we are here. And Ethan, well that kid just adores you so he is going to be begging to go home with us all the time. I don't mind that at all just so you know, but just a couple of things to think about."
Luke grinned. "Yeah a little less privacy but I think that much would be worth it. Before we could only see the kids when we went to Sunday dinners, now we could see them more often, and if we make sure they understand that they should call before they come over or knock before entering I think that would be fine too. And actually them wanting to visit is another reason why moving would be good. More room, some place for them to sleep. I think we could handle being a little more discreet…don't you?"
"Oh most definitely. I would love being closer to your family, and have the girls and Ethan stay over from time to time. It's so much fun to watch you with them, especially Ethan. That little guy has you wrapped around his finger and if I'm not careful I will be there right along with you." Noah smiled and took the paper from Luke to look it over. "Other than those things I really can't think of any other cons right off the top of my head."
"Well, then its time for the pros," Luke said taking back the pad of paper and stealing a kiss. "We'll have more room in the house first off, and we can get a fresh start…make some new memories. I really like that one."
"Me too. We have some great memories here, but there are plenty of sad ones too."
Luke nodded and looked at his list again. He shifted so that he could put his arms around Noah's neck. I know there are more good memories then bad ones, but…honestly, Noah I feel like the sad memories are overwhelming."
"I can understand that," Noah's tone was thoughtful as he held on to Luke, "and I don't want you to be overwhelmed by the sad memories. We can go to our new home and have nothing hanging over our heads. A place with no sad memories to overcome. A place that is part of your family, and that your Dad and Great-grandfather think will be the perfect spot for us. I say we throw away that list my love and just go for it."
"Gladly," Luke said ripping the sheet from the tablet and tearing it to shreds.. "You're really sure about this? We can move?"
"Absolutely we can move," Noah kissed him softly on the lips. "As far as I am concerned we can start moving today if you want to. I know Dad and Grandma Emma will be thrilled."
The look of wonder on Luke's face was enough to make Noah smile. Those hands touched his cheeks and they shared another sweet kiss. "I love you Noah," he said, his words full of meaning. "Let's do it. Let's move today…so that we can start the New Year in our new home."
Luke prepared breakfast while Noah called Holden to tell him the good news. As predicted Holden was thrilled and he told them to let him know if they needed any help. There was so much to do, and it seemed so little time to do it but they were ready. This would be an adventure for them, their first place together, it was perfect.
"Do you want to tell James and Maddie or should I?" Noah asked as Luke placed their breakfast on the table. he watched as Luke cut into his pancakes and poured on syrup before answering his question.
"We'll call them after we eat. We also need boxes and we need to let the landlord know and we need to pack."
Noah focused on his own food for a minute, chewing thoughtfully as he thought of all that needed to be done. "Well I'm glad we decided not to go back to work until January. We can spend this entire week here just getting our house situated and we can throw a party for the New Year?"
"I think it should just be the four of us for now," Luke added. "Maybe after we are settled more we can have a house warming party and invite all of our friends but for New Years…I wouldn't mind just spending it with you and our closest friends."
"I like that idea," Noah agreed. "So when you call James you can hit him with both pieces of news."
Luke smiled and shook his head, before leaning in to give Noah a syrupy kiss. They ate their breakfast in comfortable silence, each of them easily getting lost in thoughts of what was to come. There was a lot to get done before they could officially move, but they were determined to get it all taken care of.
"You're what?" James asked as he towel dried his hair. "Are you serious?" He listened for a moment to the sound of Luke's excitement and smiled as he switched his phone to his other ear and abandoned the towel on his bed. "So let me get this straight? You're inviting us to a party at your new home? You're moving for real?"
"Yes James," Luke chuckled as he handed Noah the last dish to dry. "Dad surprised us with this yesterday, and we don't see a reason to wait. So we're going to take the house and you and Maddie are invited to help us move and we can ring in the New Year together. I hope that's okay."
"Well of course we'll help," James replied as Maddie returned to their bedroom. She looked at him questionably and he let her know it was Luke on the phone. "When do you want us over there and what can we do?"
"Well come over whenever you can, and bring some boxes and containers. We need to start packing things up and we'll need a truck but we don't have to worry about that just yet. Besides Dad said he would help too, and you have to tell me if this sounds crazy James. I count on you for that, you know."
James laughed. "Actually you sound really happy. And I am very happy for you. Maddie and I will be over as soon as we can. Talk to you soon, Luke."
"What was that all about," Maddie asked as she ran a comb through her hair.
"The guys need our help today," James explained. "They're moving."
"What? Really? Oh my god, where to?"
"Luke's great grandfather's place. They're really excited about it, and they want our help."
"Awww, well I'm happy for them. Though I will miss having them close by."
"Yeah," James agreed. "They won't be just across town anymore, but I think this move will be good for them. That apartment has a lot of demons that they need to escape."
"And it will be nice to be in a place where Randy has never been."
"That too," James nodded. "They can close that chapter for good, and I'm sure Mr. Snyder is completely stoked."
Maddie giggled. "I can't believe you just said stoked." James pulled her into his arms and kissed her breathless. Maddie put her arms around her husband and lost herself in his touch.
Packing up your life was never easy. Noah figured he should be used to it; he had done it enough times growing up with his father. They had moved from army base to army base. They always left just when he was starting to form roots. It got to the point that he stopped trying…what was the point when you just left a couple of years later? This was slightly different though. He was moving out of the apartment he had occupied for a year more or less. And he wasn't moving far…and he wasn't going alone.
It helped too that the ties he had made in this small town would still be there. The future looked bright for him and Luke and he was ready to embrace that. He wanted this move for himself just as much as he wanted it for his husband. This was their home, and it had been for a long time, but Noah was well aware of how he came to live in this place. His past with Luke was here, but so was his life of living a lie. Months of living with Luke had erased the days of living here with Maddie…but Noah remembered.
He recalled the times they sat on the couch watching movies, eating popcorn, making out. He could recall the conversations, the jokes and the phone calls. He would sit in this very chair, and talk to Luke about anything. It had always been easy to speak to Luke when he wasn't in front of him. He and Maddie hadn't lived together long at all; in fact it was mere days compared to the lifetime he spent here with Luke. But he still remembered, and soon he would close the door on that part of his past…for good.
"Are you okay?" Luke asked coming to sit beside him on the couch. He wrapped his arms around Noah and kissed his shoulder. Noah turned causing Luke to shift slightly as Noah slipped his arms around him.
"I'm fine, just thinking about all the things that have happened in this apartment. "There are a lot of memories here."
"You lived a lifetime here," Luke said softly. "We both have, and so has Maddie. It's going to be hard saying good bye to this place but I think we're making the right decision."
"How do you always know what I'm thinking even before I do?" Noah asked, completely in awe of his husband.
"I just know you. I know you have a big heart and I know you have a lot of feelings about last year. I can't tell you how glad I am that you and Maddie are okay. It means so much to me that we're all friends."
"That means a lot to me too, Luke. More than I can even put into words. I know things happen for a reason, and I think we're where we belong. I have you, and I couldn't be happier…and Maddie has James…do you know how lucky we all are to have him in our lives?"
"Yeah. Yeah I do, and I know how lucky I am to have you." Noah smiled as Luke leaned in to kiss him, and they were lost in each other for mere seconds before there was a knock on the door. Reluctantly they pulled away from each other and Noah went to let their friends in.
"We come bearing gifts," James said as he carried in boxes and containers. Maddie followed with a small load and James made another trip to the car before the door was closed and secured. "Just tell us what we need to do and we'll get at it," he said running a hand through his hair. "It seems kinda strange to be in this place, knowing it will be the last time."
"Yeah, I was here when Luke called about the mugging," Maddie said softly. The four friends took a moment to silently recall the incident that almost cost James his life.
"And that was where I was when I called you totally freaked out," Luke said nodding toward the bedroom. "At least one of the times…it happened pretty frequently after Noah came home."
"But that was the time that mattered," James commented. "It led to you doing something really brave."
"Our first anniversary was in this very living room," Noah added slipping an arm around Luke's waist. "We had quite a few firsts right where that couch is sitting."
"And there were a lot of movie nights here," Maddie said nostalgically.
"And a lot of fights," Luke added.
"And Make ups," Noah whispered in his ear.
"Needless to say it's been a helluva year," James interjected. "But come on guys, it's time to get you moved."
They worked diligently, folding clothes, taking down books and packing things into boxes and containers. Luke made lunch for the four of them, grilled cheese and potato fries. They sat around the table laughing and talking about life and Christmas. James talked about the family dinner they had shared with his dad and Lucinda. Maddie spoke of Henry and Vienna's visit. Vienna had apparently decided to regale them with her Swedish splendor, but the only thing that was really appetizing was the meatballs. Then of course they talked of Dart, the sweet puppy who decided that Henry's hat was more appetizing then puppy food.
After lunch they went back to work, loading things into Luke's car so he could drive them out to their new home. He returned with Holden and a truck to load up more of their belongings. James offered to take things in his car, and soon they were all moved. They agreed unanimously that they could live without the furniture in the apartment. Everything else, pictures, books, DVDs, things they brought into the place together it was all moved to their new home.
"I can't believe you two just managed to move your entire apartment in the span of a day," James said as Luke handed him a glass of juice. The four friends were sitting on the couch, surrounded by boxes upon boxes of Luke and Noah's belongings.
"We wouldn't have been able to if not for you and Maddie and my dad," Luke commented.
"I guess it helped that we were just bringing our own things," Noah chimed in. "We saved a lot of time by not wanting the furniture.
"Yeah, just the TV and the DVD player, and you and I both have Laptops so that saved time as well."
"You guys are not sitting here dissecting your move are you," Maddie teased. "You're such dorks."
"Watch it," James said laughing. "We may be recruiting them when and if we decide to move so be nice."
"Are you guys thinking about moving too?" Luke asked.
"Yeah, we're thinking about it."
"Our apartment doesn't have enough space for a baby," Maddie explained. "We have a few prospects but we haven't decided on anything yet. We've been looking for a month now."
"You didn't tell us you were looking," Noah accused playfully. "Can you believe that Luke. They have been holding out on us."
Luke smiled and shook his head. "I think it's great," he said raising his glass to James and Maddie. "We're all trying to start fresh. I have an idea though." He took a sip of his drink and placed a hand on Noah's knee as he looked around at his friends. "I think we should think about this past year, or I guess this past year and a half…and then come up with our resolutions. On New Year's Eve when you guys come over, we'll talk about them."
"That's not a bad idea, Hon," Noah said placing his arm around his husband. "We can make it a memory party. Each of us can share a story about our best memories together. I mean we've had some crazy times, the last six months notwithstanding."
Everyone laughed and James took a sip of his juice and put his glass on the table. "The last six months don't even count, since you two decided to disappear." He smiled. "Seriously though, I think that is a good idea. There have been some great times."
"Bright spots," Maddie nodded as she placed a hand on her belly. "I think we can do that."
"Specifically," Luke said as he snuggled closer to Noah, "Let's sum up the last two years, and talk about what we're thankful for. I know between the four of us there's a lot, and I can't think of better people to bring in 2009 with then you guys."
"Now who's the dork," Noah teased. James and Maddie laughed as Luke swatted at him.
"I'm serious, Noah!"
"I know, I know," Noah said laughing. "I'm just kidding. It's a good idea and I actually agree."
"I agree too, Luke," Maddie smiled. "It should be fun."
"We better get going sweetie," James said checking his watch.
"We have an appointment tonight," Maddie explained as she stood and James grabbed her coat.
"There's nothing wrong with the baby is there?" Luke asked concerned.
"No, just a checkup."
"We asked for night time appointments," James explained. "We'll come help you guys unpack if you want."
"Though next week some of us have to work." Maddie teased.
Luke and Noah stuck out their tongues almost simultaneously and burst out laughing. Maddie shook her head, a smile on her face as she joked about them being immature.
"Bye guys," James said as he followed Maddie out. Noah locked the door and leaned against it. There was so much to be done still. Boxes littered the floor and there were still sheets on some of the furniture but all in all this was their new home and he walked over to Luke who was looking around himself. He wrapped his arms around his husband and kissed him softly on the lips.
Luke's arms went up around his neck and he deepened the kiss wantonly.
"Alone at last," Noah muttered against his lips.
"Our first night in our new home," Luke sighed. "That seems so surreal. I can't believe we did this."
"You know what else I can't believe?" Noah asked, pressing his forehead against Luke's.
"What?"
"That we're still talking," Noah responded, swallowing Luke's giggles in his mouth. He lifted his husband into his arms and carried him to their bedroom kicking the door closed behind him.
The next few days flew by without much fanfare. As predicted Faith and Natalie found their way over to the house often, and for the most part Luke and Noah would put them to work. Faith had the task of putting books on the respective bookshelves with her brother's supervision, while Natalie helped Noah dust off everything and put the silverware away in the kitchen. Natalie handled the forks and the spoons, Noah handled the knives. They allowed both girls to help them decide which way to arrange the furniture, and on Tuesday the girls and Ethan joined them for a special movie day. They ordered pizza, popped popcorn and sang along to a few Disney movies.
Noah's favorite part of the evening was sitting on the couch watching his husband wrestle with Ethan, who was having a grand old time trying to tackle his big brother. He would swat with his little hand and Luke would tickle him until he screamed with glee for Luke to stop. Luke would release him, and start a conversation with Faith, only to be tackled by Ethan again minutes later. Natalie decided she wanted to join in the fun so she tackled Luke too. Luke tickled her easily and she squealed for Noah to come to the rescue.
Noah just laughed and watched from his seat on the couch. It was always fun to watch Luke with his siblings. He was so good with them, and they adored him. That was fairly obvious. He was also coming to realize that they loved him too. While the younger two played with Luke, Faith carried on a conversation with Noah about school and how she felt about certain things, including her mother's disappearance from the family. Noah just allowed her to talk. Luke had always said that Faith was quick to pick up on things. It was a shame that no one else seemed to realize that.
"Okay, guys time to go home," Luke said some time later. His cheeks were flushed from playing, and Ethan looked like he'd fall asleep right then and there. That didn't stop him from throwing a tantrum though.
"I wanna stay!" he pouted as he looked up at Luke. Pwease, can I stay with Luke and Noah? Pwease."
Luke looked at Noah who shrugged his shoulders. "It's okay as long as he goes home in the morning."
"We want to stay too, if Ethan stays." Natalie insisted.
"You don't want to leave dad all alone do you?" Luke asked a frown settling on his lips. "I wouldn't mind having you all here, but not on such short notice. And Faith, you know I'm counting on you to keep an eye on Dad for me."
"I know," Faith said resigned to the fact that they couldn't stay. "Noah can you walk us back to the house?"
"Sure." Noah kissed Luke quickly and told him he'd return shortly. Faith and Natalie hugged their brother before each of them grabbed one of Noah's hands; and they were off to the farm. Luke picked up his little brother and placed their heads together for a moment.
"What am I going to do with you, munchkin?"
"Wuve me," Ethan said a big grin on his face.
Luke laughed. "Definitely that." He kissed his brother's cheek and placed him on the floor. Ethan was picking up toys here and there, when Noah returned.
"Dad said its okay it Ethan stays but we can feel free to send him home if he starts causing trouble."
"NO trouble," Ethan insisted, burying his head in Luke's shoulder.
"Well then, little guy it's time for you to go to bed okay?" Luke said carrying him toward the guest room. He tucked his brother into bed and sat with him until he fell fast asleep.
"It's time for you to go to sleep too," Noah said as Luke came out of the room. "You look exhausted."
Luke smiled and they retired to their room and prepared for bed. They were in bed talking softly when they saw their door move slightly and a little head peeked around the corner. "Can I sweep in here?" Ethan asked even as he came further into the room.
"Come on little guy," Noah said laughing. Luke held open his arms and Ethan came bounding into them. Soon he was situated between Luke and Noah and he quickly slipped into a comfortable sleep. Noah smiled at Luke, and gave him a soft kiss good night. "Good Night, Love."
"Good night," Luke said softly. They shared another kiss, and kissed Ethan's forehead before settling down into bed, simultaneously they placed their arms around Little Ethan. Their fingers touched, and their eyes closed as they escaped into dreamland.
"Okay so who's going to start?" Luke asked as he settled on the couch beside Noah. It was New Year's Eve and as planned the four friends had gathered together to reminisce about the past eighteen months. They had plenty of food and hot chocolate, and there was sparkling cider to toast the New Year. Ethan had been around for the majority of the day, and even Maddie and James got to spend some time with him before Luke flew him home to the farm with promises of more fun and sleepovers in the near future. Now he rested his head on Noah's shoulder and waited for someone to answer his question.
"Well I guess we can go in alphabetical order," Noah suggested, 'Which means, you get to start, Mads."
"Oh that is so unfair," Maddie laughed as she snatched a mini pizza off the table.
"Ladies first, Maddie," James and Luke commented at the same moment.
Noah smiled and picked up a pig in blanket and brought it to Luke's lips for him to take a bite. He finished it off and pointed at their friend. "You'll always be first because you're our best girl."
"You're full of it, Mayer," Maddie laughed. "But okay, I guess I can start us off. You wanted us to figure out what we're thankful for," she said her words directed at her best friend. "So I've been thinking about it, and I'm most thankful for my brother, because he's' put up with so much with me; I wouldn't even still be in Oakdale if not for Henry taking me in when he did. I would have never gotten to know you at all, Luke. Your friendship means the world to me. I can't understand how you put up with my neurosis, but you do. And as crazy as last year was, 2008 was even more so, but I think we got through that because of these amazing guys right here. It doesn't get any better than that."
A smile crossed Luke's lips as James wrapped Maddie in his arms and kissed her softly on the cheek. Noah rested his chin in Luke's hair and Luke smiled up at him for a moment before focusing on their friends again. "If you had to pick one moment, Mads, that defined our time together; the four of us…when would that be and why?"
Maddie's expression was reflective as she mulled over the question. Her eyes were focused on Luke and Noah, as she relaxed against James. It was amazing to her, just how well her two friends fit together. They complimented each other; a perfect mixture of light and dark, a gentle coming together of two souls and a bond that had withstood so many tests in such a short amount of time. She loved these guys, just as she loved the husband who sat beside her. The three of them were her security. They were her rocks.
"A defining moment," she said thoughtfully. "Well it kinda coincides with something bittersweet, but I think the moment it struck most for me was in James' hospital room, after the mugging." They were all silent as they recalled that fateful day. it had been Luke and James' birthday and they had been out with Noah to celebrate. "You were sitting between Luke and Noah," she said pulling their minds back to the present. "and I came and joined you guys on the bed…and we formed a circle. There was just so much love in that room. We linked hands, and then shared a group hug and it just seemed right. I had had moments before when I thought our friendship, no matter how peculiar its beginnings was special, but that it just …I just knew that no matter what we would be doing everything together. And as sentimental as this is going to sound, I think we were brought together for a reason and I couldn't ask for a better circle of friends."
"I wish Gwen and Will were here," Luke sighed. "I still can't believe they decided to move away, just like that. Noah and I stopped by on Christmas Eve before we went to the farm and they were packing up. Oakdale won't be the same without those two."
"Just like it wasn't the same without you two, for six months," James commented matter-of-factly. "I'd have to say that I'm most thankful for you guys, probably most especially Luke."
Luke detangled himself from Noah and they both sat up to take a drink as they listened to what James had to say.
"Why is that, James?"Noah asked, a smile playing on his lips.
"Well, as my dad will tell you, I didn't have many friends growing up. I shied away from people, because I was used to being alone. In my experiences, potential friends wrote you off if they knew that you were sick, and that you were different. I couldn't go to all the sleepovers or hang outs…and then add in the fact that my mother left me, I guess you could say I was a fucked up kid. But I've said this before," James continued, locking gazes with Luke. "I feel very honored to have met a guy like you, Luke. You are one of a kind, and I know I'm embarrassing you, but since you asked the question you're going to get my answer."
Luke laughed and bit his lip to keep his emotions in check. Noah placed a hand on his shoulder and they focused on James.
"For the longest time," James continued, "My dad has been the only person who could reach me. He was the one who knew just what to say and what to do when I was in a funk. "He was the only one, until one September day when you spoke up in Psych class and I got this feeling that someone understood me. And it may have taken a few months for us to really cultivate a friendship, but I must say that it's the best few months I've ever spent. And that's not even to mention the fact that you convinced me to go out on a blind date, which led me to meeting this terrific girl." He took Maddie's hand and smiled at her lovingly. "And let's not forget," he said a moment later, "That you were there for me during my darkest hour. You and Noah are truly like brothers to me, and that's what I'm thankful for the most. For your acceptance and your love."
"Same question for you, James," Noah spoke up softly. "Do you have a defining memory?"
"Well I think for me that moment came that day back in February when Maddie and I came to help you guys after what happened. It was on that day that I realized that it wasn't just Luke that I cared about. You are just as important to me, Noah, and that particular day cinched it for me."
"I guess that means it's my turn," Noah said smiling even as he ducke3d away from James' praise. "Gosh, um what am I supposed to say to that?" Everyone laughed at him and Luke gave him a kiss on the cheek.
"Just say what you're feeling, love. There's no right or wrong answer here."
Noah squeezed his hand and smiled as Maddie reached out to pick up another pig in blanket from the tray. "I think I have to follow everyone else's lead here and say that I'm most thankful for Luke. But I guess I can't say that without saying that I'm grateful to you as well, Mads for your friendship and your understanding. IT would have been too easy for you and for James to have written me off without a thought, but you didn't. and I will never forget that for a long time. But back to you," He said smiling at Luke adoringly. "When I came to Oakdale I was so deep in the closet that I had myself convinced that I was straight. It was a necessary lie at the time, but you made it almost impossible to keep. You taught me a lot about love, and family and you shared yours with me without even a thought. Thanks to you I have sisters and brothers , and a dad who really cares about what happens to me. And most importantly I have you. You have shown me what it means to be loved and accepted for who I am. You've stood by me through so much and I just want you to know that you most definitely are my heart and my soul and without you I just know I'd be lost."
"And your defining moment?" Luke asked softly.
"Well we've had a lot of those," Noah responded. "What was nice about my memory returning was that I could recall our meeting, the way we all became four, and it was very interesting to reflect on everything. And it's crazy to think that one some levels I only really got to know all of you for a few short months…just this year. I felt like I was coming into something that was already pretty great. You, Maddie and James had this thing…this connection that you welcomed me into and I felt honored to be included. But my favorite memory has to be the four of us at our wedding. Not even just the ceremony which was beautiful and perfect. The reception, and listening to the toasts and being reminded that we were four…that was it for me, and I'm glad I got…that we got," he said squeezing Luke's hand, "to share that day and that moment with the two of you. That was perfection."
'You are not allowed to say you aren't good with words anymore," Luke insisted as he leaned in to kiss his husband. "Sometimes you really know how to overwhelm me, Noah and right now is no exception to that. So I guess its my turn to play this little game." Everyone nodded and Noah stole a kiss before Luke was able to continue.
"When I first thought of this idea, I had no idea that you guys were going to turn it into let's praise Luke day, but I appreciate it…and I more than adore all of you. So let me start with what and whom I am thankful for." He stopped to grab his glass from the table, taking a long sip of his drink before he felt ready to talk. "First of all, I'm thankful for my Dad and my grandma Lucinda. They have been my guideposts through the hard times, and believe me there have been a lot of those. They are big reasons why I am the man I am today…and I don't think I need to say how much I love them. And I probably don't need to tell you guys how much I love you either, but that seems to be what the theme of the evening is."
Noah wrapped his arm around Luke and held him there, his eyes glancing at the clock. According to the clock there were forty-five minutes left in the year and he kissed the top of Luke's head, thinking it was wonderful that this year they would ring the New Year in together.
"Maddie," Luke continued, a smile crossing his lips. "Like Noah said you could have written me off a long time ago as well. But you were one of the few friends I had left in high school. You didn't turn your back on me, and in fact loved me for being just who I was. Your encouragement means so much to me, and I'm thankful that I have you in my life. And I'm grateful that last summer didn't tarnish that, because I'd truly be lost without you. And James," he said his voice already thick with emotion as he spoke, "what can I say about you? You are the one who helped me cope when Noah was out of reach. You are the one who convinced me to fight when I was ready to give up. I already have brothers…but there was definitely room in my heart for one more, and I'm glad it's you. Thanks for always being there when I called, or when I freaked out and randomly showed up at your dad's office. And more importantly I guess, thanks for letting me in…for allowing me to be there for you like you were for me."
James grinned and reached out to squeeze Luke's free hand. A silent thank you passed between them and Luke smiled warmly. He adored this guy so much; he couldn't imagine not having James in his world.
"And as for you," Luke said letting go of James to turn his attention completely on his husband. "is it any wonder that I am especially thankful for you walking into my life. That I treasure every day that I get to spend in your arms, and that I love the friendship we cultivated so well that it became this amazing thing. I think it's called love, Noah, but I seriously don't think that describes what I feel for you. I mean you saved my life, both literally and figuratively. The best thing I think I can thank you for is the opportunity to fall in love with you all over again. Thank you for being patient with me and for just…just being you, my safe haven, even when it would have been easy for you to just give up. I'm glad you didn't. And with that said, I guess you want my defining moment…the moment that sealed our friendship for me. It wasn't just one thing, its been everything. From the first dinner party, to the moments when we sat in my hospital room after I woke up. I just can't imagine not being friends with you guys, so," He shrugged and ducked his head shyly. "I guess that's that."
"You are too adorable my love," Noah said kissing him softly on the lips. "We have just enough time to do our resolutions before we say good bye to 2008. "Do you want to start?"
"Well," Luke said thoughtfully, "even with everything I've gone through this year, I still have a lot of unresolved issues to deal with. So my resolution is to deal with my baggage so that Noah and I can have some peace in our second year of marriage. What about you, Maddie?"
"Well, I resolve to learn as much as I can before the baby comes. So that I can be a good mother to him or her."
"And I will work on opening up more," James added. "Now that I've started letting people into my heart, I will try not to close myself off anymore."
"Those are all good," Noah said biting his lip. "I think mine will surprise you…but I want to find out more about my family. I want to resolve that part of my life so that I can focus on what's really important…my life with you," He said his final words for Luke's ears only and they shared another kiss as James prepared the glasses to toast the new year.
"I think those are all great," James said, sharing one last kiss with Maddie before picking up his glass. Luke and Noah picked theirs up as well, and Maddie turned on the television. There was just one more minute left in the year and Luke heard his friends counting down along with Dick Clark. 2008 had been quite the year but he was more than ready to see it go. He linked arms with Noah as James held Maddie's hand. "Ten, nine eight, sever..five for three…two…onw."
"Happy New Year!" They said all together, clinking their glasses and taking a sip before giving in to New Year's kisses. Aud Lang Syne could be heard in the background and Luke smiled as Noah started to sing along with the song.
"Happy new year Noah," he whispered as Noah wrapped him in his arms.
"Happy New Year Luke…I love you."
