The Full House
Everyone arrives steadily. First, Michael, Ben, and Hunter (and Emily) arrive in the morning to help set up the dining room. Debbie, of course, has Emily feeling warm and welcome in an equally awkward way. Next, Melanie and Lindsay arrive with the kids; JR very excited to see her toys Michael brought from their house. Ted and Blake arrive quickly after Melanie and Lindsay, carrying wrapped gifts and food. Emmett and Calvin arrive with gifts. Calvin brings his camera to take a group photograph when everyone is present. It is nearly 3:00 pm when Brian and Justin arrive. Everyone frets over Justin about his latest work and New York, while Brian is happily playing around with the Gus and JR.
When Debbie loudly declares that dinner is served, the crowd comes pouring into the dining room. Jenny Rebecca decides to sit with Hunter to meet Emily, who she bonded with over her stick-portrait.
Justin and Calvin rave about art for a bit too long, Brian attempting to stuff his mouth if he didn't switch the subject. "With mashed potatoes, you filthy-minded people!" Brian teases when the parents give him a look.
Everyone has a wonderful time. At the end of dinner, they all go into the den, and Calvin prepares his camera. Everyone together again, no exemptions, since last Christmas. Every person takes a moment to appreciate this. To appreciate that everyone is here: healthy, progressive, aging, and learning.
"Alright, we have ten seconds!" Calvin calls, running to Emmett.
Everyone takes a breath. Everyone prepares to save the moment.
Everyone hopes to freeze their emotions in that moment.
If only a camera can do that.
I submitted this fic to the Christmas contest on the Queer as Folk fan group on DeviantArt! If you have an account, please vote for it!
q a f - libertyave . deviantart dot com
I would really appreciate the support :)
