AUTHOR'S NOTES:
Happy Mother's Day to everyone. We edge ever closer to the wedding.
Miss Liz, thank you so much for all your time and attention, even when you don't have the time to spare. And especially for the brainstorming. Definitely the most fun part of my week. Miss Maureen, thank you for all your help with the little ones. You will see more of your counsel in print this week. Big triplet hugs to my girls.
Anyone who has not read the incredible Equal & Opposite, or is not now reading the brilliance that is Errors & Omissions should go do so right now. Links to both stories are in my profile.
WARNING:
This story is intended for an adult audience! There is crude speech, hate speech and adult sexual subject matter of a homosexual nature. If you are under 18 stop reading now!
AU/AH/OC
All characters from Twilight belong to Stephenie Meyer. I just take them out and play with them.
Chapter 9: Countdown Continues
Wednesday
(Wedding Minus Three Days)
It was Emmett's last day of work before his wedding day. His boss was not totally heartless, and it was agreed that Emmett would use sick time Thursday and Friday while his family was in town. Garrett and Seth both worked only half days and were at the airport with Justin, Melinda and Stephanie when George, Celeste and Mother E's US Air flight from Philadelphia landed that afternoon. As instructed, Garrett drove Mother E's car to the airport. George would be driving that while they were in town, and an explanation would be forthcoming in due course.
Nasir was so wired that he was not even able to sit down by the time Emmett came home. He paced from the dinning room into their home office and back out again. He was dressed nicely in jeans and a dress shirt.
"Emmett!" Nasir bolted for the door just as soon as he heard his partner's key in their lock.
"Oh!" Emmett was surprised right in the doorway. "Hey," he wrapped his arms around Nasir just as Nasir grabbed him. "Hi, Babe. Are you getting a little excited?" Emmett chuckled.
"I am very excited. I cannot wait to see them! It has been far too long. We must not let so much time go by without seeing them. Should we not go?" Nasir spoke a mile a minute.
"Can I come in first?" Emmett asked.
"What? Oh!" Nasir did not realize that he had prevented Emmett from entering their home and pulled him inside.
Emmett put a hand to Nasir's face and gave him a soft kiss on his lips. "You are adorable," he smiled and shut the door behind them. "Their plane does not land until seven fifteen, so we have a little time."
"We do not want to be late. There will be much traffic at this time of day. We should go," Nasir concluded with a nod.
"Can I change into more comfortable clothes?" Emmett asked as he headed for their bedroom.
"Yes, of course," Nasir followed.
"What about you? You want a more casual shirt?" Emmett asked as he unbuttoned his.
"I want to look nice for your, I mean," Nasir shook his head as he corrected himself, "our family."
"Nasi, you are gonna look fantastic for everyone on Saturday. Today you can be yourself," Emmett pulled his dress shirt out of his pants and shrugged it off his shoulders. "Our family loves you, and they aren't gonna care what you wear to meet them at the airport."
"You are sure?" Nasir was not.
"Wear something sexy. I like everyone to see how hot my guy is. I'll pick you out a shirt. C'mon," Emmett pulled off his belt and dropped it on the bed. He unbuttoned, unzipped and let fall his dress pants before he stepped out of them.
"Oh, now I do wish we had more time," Nasir much appreciated the view of his lover's snug and packed boxers. He began to unbutton his own shirt.
"I'll do that," Emmett stepped up to Nasir and took over the unbuttoning of his partner's shirt. He smiled as he slowly revealed the Arab's hairy chest. He pulled Nasir's shirt open and out of his jeans. Emmett ran his hands over Nasir's chest and up over his shoulders to push the shirt off of him.
"I like it when you undress me," Nasir spoke softly as his shirt fell to the floor.
"I will never, ever get tired of doing that," Emmett bet to give a gentle, wet kiss on Nasir's right nipple. "Oh, I know what we'll wear," Emmett walked over to a dresser and pulled out two plain white V necked tee shirts. "Here you go, Babe. Put this on," he tossed one to Nasir and pulled the other one over his head.
"Just a plain tee shirt?" Nasir asked even as he did put it on.
"You are so hot in that white tee shirt with your darker skin," Emmett stepped back to Nasir and traced the deep V neck with his finger. "Not to mention how sexy this is."
"I think you are pretty hot in this shirt too," Nasir let his fingers lightly play over Emmett's nipples where the thin fabric stretched across his massive chest. Emmett just smiled and pushed down his underwear. He giggled and danced into the closet as Nasir reached for him.
"Put your pants on quickly, Habibi, before I forget all about our family," Nasir warned. It only took a moment for Emmett to pull on a pair of snug jeans. He took off his dress socks and left them in the hamper with his underwear.
"Okay, Babe. Let's go meet them," Emmett took his partner's hand and led him out of the bedroom.
Connor McCarty had not a care in the world. His parents had taken him on quite an adventure today. Connor rode safe and secure, high on his tall father's back as his family walked through yet another vast place after their airplane ride. He had never been on an airplane before and found the experience fascinating. Connor's mother walked at their side and pushed his car seat laden stroller while his great grandmother toddled along behind them and his grandmother led the charge. They had flown Delta and once off the plane had taken an underground railway before riding yet another moving staircase. Connor's eyes just could not take in enough of the people and places.
Emmett and Nasir stood hand in hand with a bunch of other people awaiting loved ones. Nasir was not sure why his heart was racing. He simply could not wait to see the people who were now also his family. Their approval, acceptance and love for him meant more than Nasir had the words to express. That they would come for his wedding to their son, to celebrate their union with them, was all the more special when his own relatives would rather see him dead. Nasir looked to his partner's expectant face as they waited. He was so grateful to Emmett for holding his hand right now as it was a very calming influence. For his part, Emmett could not have been more proud to stand with his partner awaiting the rest of his family. He was very aware that in this place their holding hands exposed them to potentially caustic comments from assholes, but that could not, and would not, dissuade Emmett. As it was, either their combined size was a deterrent, or the airport was blissfully devoid of assholes this fine midweek evening.
"Habibi!" Nasir pointed when he caught sight of them.
"I see them," Emmett saw them at the same time. Auguste wore a simple short sleeved dress with flat shoes. Carson wore a dark blue tee shirt and jeans that were far too loose. His wife wore a frilly pink shirt and jeans that fit her the way they should, just as her husband liked it. Behind them Noreen wore a white sweatshirt that had been specially made with the likenesses of each of her eight cats, and light blue pants.
"Mein sohn!" Auguste was the first to reach them. She grabbed Emmett's face and kissed him.
"Hi, Mutti," Emmett embraced his mother.
"Hey, guys," Carson greeted with a broad smile as he and Sonja walked up behind Auguste.
"Und mein other sohn," Auguste let go of Emmett and grabbed Nasir's face to kiss him as well.
"Mutti," Nasir happily kissed his mother-in-law and wrapped his arms around her.
"Hi, Car," Emmett moved to hug his brother while his mother had Nasir. "Oh! There's Connor. You're wearing your son?" Emmett asked as he and his brother shared a straight guy lean in at the shoulder with no hip contact hug.
"Good to see you, Em," Carson patted his big brother's back.
"Hi, Connor. Hi, little buddy," Emmett smiled and waved at his nephew who just stared back wide-eyed. "Hi, Sonja," he moved to his sister-in-law.
"Hi, Emmett," Sonja had to reach up for his hug.
"Nasir," Carson smiled and reached for his brother's partner. Nasir happily shared the same hug with Carson that Emmett had.
"Where are they? Let me at 'em," Noreen wheeled her little carry on bag up behind the others. "There's my other big, strapping boys!"
"Hi, Grandma," Emmett bent to hug and kiss the tiny old woman.
"Hello, Sonja," Nasir had a hug for her as well.
"Hi, Nasir," the Nordic blonde beauty hugged the tall Arab.
"Gimme my Nasir too," Noreen let go of Emmett and held her arms out to Nasir. "There's all my big boys," she patted his shoulder as he hugged and kissed her cheek as well.
"Hey, Car, I love that you have Connor up in that backpack thing," Emmett pointed.
"Yeah, it really comes in handy. He loves it and it's good for him too," Carson explained.
"It is?" Emmett did not get that.
"It helps a child's development to be at adult level," Sonja expounded. "They are exposed to adult perspective and conversation this way. Children that are always on the floor don't get that exposure and only experience adults talking child talk down at them."
"Oh, I guess that makes sense," Emmett considered with a nod.
"I've been wearing him since he was six months old. Haven't I, Buddy?" Carson tried to look back at his son. Connor's answer was an appreciative hand on his father's face.
"Oh my God, that is so cute," Emmett admired.
"They are really cute together. Carson's a good daddy," Sonja paid her husband one of the best compliments a man could get.
"Thanks, Honey," Carson took his wife's hand. "Connor's got the best mommy in the whole wide world too. He was on my chest first, then he graduated to my back."
"I did not know there were backpack things for little ones," Nasir admitted.
"Well, I think you gay boys can be excused for not knowing things like that," Carson teased.
"I see now why you're wearing him. He's a shield. You know I won't kick your ass with your son on your back," Emmett gave his little brother a play punch on his upper arm. Carson just looked at his brother and tapped his own temple to demonstrate how smart he was.
"Anyway, let's go get your luggage," Emmett took hold of the handle of his mother's rolling bag.
"Ja," Auguste agreed. She took Emmett's hand in her right and Nasir' hand in her left and walked between them as they led the way to their baggage carousel. "Oh! Let me see your rings!" Auguste stopped short. Both Emmett and Nasir present their left hands to her.
"Ja, so nice!" Auguste approved.
"Let me see!" Noreen came forward again. "Oh, yes. They are nice."
"You will switch them to your right hands during your ceremony, Ja?" Auguste asked.
"Ja, Mutti," Emmett confirmed. "We'll do it right. Let's go get your bags," he urged. They three took up the lead, hand in hand again.
Three suitcases of varying size had been checked. Auguste's was bigger than Noreen's and the one shared by Carson, Sonja and Connor was huge. The three men pulled along the big suitcases as Emmett and Nasir led the way across the multiple lanes of traffic into the parking deck and up to the third level where they had found parking. The Range Rover Sport and the Maserati Grancabrio sat side by side right were Emmett and Nasir left them.
"Okay, you guys can have one of the cars for while you're here. Take your pick," Emmett offered.
"Are you kidding? This is an easy choice," Carson enthused. "I'll take the Maserati!"
"No we won't," Sonja vetoed her husband. "Not while we have Connor. The Range Rover will be much safer."
"I'll drive carefull, Honey," Carson protested.
"It's not you I'm worried about," Sonja countered. She gave her husband the face that told him she was not going to budge.
"The boss has spoken, Car," Emmett recognized it too and smiled as he opened the back of his Range Rover.
"Yeah," Carson capitulated as he lifted his son's car seat from the stroller. Sonja folded the stroller while Carson strapped the car seat in place in the backseat of the Range Rover. Emmett and Nasir set about stowing luggage and stroller in the back of both vehicles. Carson squatted down and Sonja lifted Connor out of his backpack. Carson then took him back and placed him in his car seat. Connor contentedly kicked his little feet while his father strapped him in. He loved riding in the car.
"These car seats fascinate me," Nasir admitted while he watched Carson secure his son. "Astronauts should be strapped in so well."
"Don't wanna take any chances with the little ones, do we, Buddy?" Carson leaned in further and kissed his son on the forehead.
"Everybody in. Next stop, Sorrento. Who's riding where?" Emmett organized.
"I ride with you," Auguste told Emmett. Sonja said nothing, but climbed into the backseat of the Range Rover next to her son.
"Car, Gram, you wanna ride with Nasir?" Emmett offered.
"Sure," Carson was fine with that.
"You can drive," Nasir handed Carson the keys.
"Oh, Nasir, you're the best brother-in-law ever!" Carson gave Nasir a clap on the shoulder and took the wheel with great enthusiasm.
Connor was ever watchful. He was in his own car seat, but in an unfamiliar vehicle and place. He was comforted by the presence of his mother, but when he saw his father climb into another vehicle, he grew agitated. He cried out and reached in the direction of the Maserati.
"It's okay, Connor. Daddy's coming with us. Mommy's here," Sonja soothed her son.
"We won't let your daddy get lost, Connor," Emmett looked back from where he sat behind the wheel. "He'll be right behind us. Okay?" he smiled at his little nephew. Connor looked with big eyes from Emmett to his mother and back again. He was not at all sure that it was okay.
"Would you like to sit in front, Grandma?" Nasir asked Noreen with a hand on her back at the passenger door of the other car.
"Good gracious no. We'd have to fold a big boy like you up in half. I'll be just fine back there," Noreen patted Nasir's arm. He held the seat forward for her and she handed him her purse while she climbed in. Nasir gave her back her handbag and then sat down beside Carson.
"Oh, this is sweet!" Carson enthused as he started the car. "Listen to this baby purr!"
"I hope you will enjoy driving it," Nasir smiled.
"Have no doubt of that," Carson backed them out of their parking space to follow Emmett. "You've got a sweet ride here, Nasir my brother."
"I like it too, but this is actually Emmett's car. I drive a Mercedes," Nasir informed.
"You bought Emmett a Maserati! Holy shit!" Carson exclaimed as they followed the Range Rover down the corkscrew ramp. "You must love him or something," he joked with a grin.
"I very much do. I would have bought him one for each day of the week, if he wanted. But as it turned out, he liked this one, so I shipped it," Nasir stated.
"What do you mean?" Carson did not understand.
"This car was at my home in Sharjah. Emmett drove it there and really liked it. I had it shipped here for him," Nasir filled in.
"Oh, I gotcha," Carson pulled up to the toll gate after Emmett paid ahead of them.
"The ticket is in the visor. Let me get you some money," Nasir reached for his wallet.
"Please. This is the very least I can do," Carson pulled out his own wallet and paid the parking fee. He then followed Emmett on the convoluted route out of the airport and onto the freeway.
"So where is, what did you say, Sharjah?" Carson asked as they followed Emmett onto the on ramp of the 518.
"Oh, sorry, the Emirates," Nasir clarified.
"Where is that again?" Noreen asked.
"The Persian Gulf," Nasir answered.
"Okay. And Sharjah is the town you're from?" Carson pressed.
"It is. It is also the name of the Emirate I am from," Nasir explained.
"What's an Emirate exactly?" Carson asked further.
"How does this translate? It is like a kingdom or principality," Nasir answered.
"Okay, I see," Carson nodded.
"How fast can this car go, Carson?" Noreen asked with a hint of mischief in her voice.
"I'm sure it can go a whole lot faster than I dare to make it, Gram," Carson stated.
"You do not want to get a ticket," Nasir thought he understood.
"I'm not afraid of a ticket. I'm afraid of my wife!" Carson laughed. "If she sees us go zooming by, she'll chew my ass but good!"
"Then do not do that. I do not want to see," Nasir nearly added 'so fine an ass,' but stopped himself, "you get chewed. Though I do seem to remember that did not stop you or Emmett on the snowmobiles."
"Oh, I got my ass chewed that day too. You just didn't see it," Carson looked to Nasir and saw the amused smile on his face. "You might not understand this, Nasir, but she gets to make the rules, 'cause she has the pussy."
Both Nasir and Noreen laughed at that.
"That's how it works, boy," Noreen added.
"You are right. I do not understand," Nasir shook his head.
"Hey, Nasir, do you and Emmett see that little Indian boy?" Noreen asked.
"You mean Seth. We see him almost every day. He is Emmett's closest friend and his husband Garrett is my best friend," Nasir answered.
"That's nice. I always liked that boy," Noreen commented.
"They're both standing up for you guys with me, right?" Carson asked.
"They are," Nasir confirmed.
"Who else is standing up for you?" Carson enquired further.
"Our good friend Edward. You will meet him on Friday," Nasir stated.
"Oh, yeah. I'm looking forward to that! Gonna break some dishes for ya," Carson chuckled.
"I am excited," Nasir smiled.
"You won't be. That'll get old damn fast. When Sonja and I got married we had our dish dinner at mutti's house and people smashed china in the driveway all damn night long, it seemed like," Carson looked to Nasir with a grin. "Now it's your turn."
In the car ahead, Emmett led the way onto the I-5, North toward Seattle.
"They are still behind us?" Auguste checked again.
"Ja, Mutti," Emmett slipped into German as he sometimes did with is mother.
"You are so scruffy," Auguste reached over to rub Emmett's cheek. Her older son had clearly not shaved in days.
"I'm trying to match Nasi," Emmett informed.
"Ja. You are both already so handsome," Auguste complimented.
"Nasir is really handsome, Emmett," Sonja agreed.
"Thank you. I think so too," Emmett smiled.
"We are going to the hotel?" Auguste asked.
"Ja, Mutti," Emmett answered again.
"You don't have room at your place for all of us?" Auguste queried.
"No, we really don't," Emmett confirmed. "We booked each of you your own room at the hotel, so you'll all have your own space. And we ordered a crib for your room, Gram's room and Carson and Sonja's room, so it's easy to share Connor."
"Thanks, Emmett," Sonja smiled.
"I thought you and Car might like some adult time," Emmett admitted.
"That's just what I was thinking," Sonja confirmed that they were on the same page.
"How is my sweet Seth?" Auguste asked.
"Oh, you know Seth, Mutti. He's very Seth," Emmett answered.
"He still wears his leather britches?" Auguste pressed.
"That's about all he wears," Emmett nodded. "He's looking very forward to seeing you, actually."
"I look very forward to see him," Auguste stated.
Emmett took the James Street exit downtown, which was the same exit they would take to go home, if they were going there now. Emmett stayed on the ramp as it passed James Street and just became 7th Avenue. He passed Cherry, Columbia and Marion, and turned right on Madison. Seattle's oldest luxury hotel stood on the corner of Madison Street and Terry Avenue, gracing the city with it's impressive Italianate architecture. Emmett turned into the tree lined motor court through the huge and dramatic wrought iron gates that opened right onto the intersection. Carson followed around the tall, central fountain and stopped behind the Range Rover under the wide porte cochere. Bellmen opened Auguste and Nasir's car doors just as soon as the cars stopped.
Everyone piled out of the cars while Emmett organized the luggage with the bellmen and Nasir headed inside to the desk. Carson opened the rear door of the Range Rover next to Connor's car seat and his son immediately reached for him. Carson could not help but smile. He unstrapped Connor from the seat and lifted him out. He then made the mistake of setting his son on the ground and Connor shot off as fast as his little feet would carry him.
"Connor!" Sonja called after him. The toddler ran through the front doors of the hotel and then stopped to take in his surroundings.
"Connor," Auguste followed and reached out her hand as she stepped up beside him, "you come with Oma. Ja?" she invited. Her grandson looked up at her for a moment and then reached up to take her hand. Together they followed in Nasir's footsteps.
"Good evening, sir. Welcome to the Sorrento," the pleasant young woman at the front desk greeted. "Checking in?"
"Yes. The three McCarty rooms are checking in," Nasir informed. Emmett, Carson, Sonja and Noreen walked into the lobby followed by the bellman with his suitcase stacked bellcart.
"This reminds me of the Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof," Auguste admired the opulent, dark and richly wood paneled lobby.
"Oh," Nasir looked around. "I have never been in here before. It does," he agreed.
"You have been to the Frankfurter Hof?" Auguste did not expect that.
"I think I told you I was in Germany once before. We stayed at the Frankfurter Hof," Nasir smiled.
"Ach," Auguste patted her third son's arm and then rubbed it.
"Of course, that was before I met Emmett. I would love to go to Germany with Emmett. You still have family there, do you not?" Nasir asked.
"Ja, we do," Auguste confirmed. "We will make a trip together, all of us, one day. You fly to Minneapolis, we go non stop to Frankfurt from there, all together."
"I would love that," Nasir smiled.
In only a few minutes they were checked in and on their way up to their rooms. Emmett and Nasir accompanied them. Three deluxe rooms, all right in a row as Emmett had requested when he made the reservations, had a view of Madison from the fourth floor.
"You need help, Grandma?" Emmett asked when he saw she was having trouble.
"New fangled credit card things," Noreen complained. Emmett showed her how to properly insert her key card into the reader to unlock the door. He held it open for her and pulled her suitcase into the room behind her.
"I'm gonna put this on the stand here for you, Grandma," Emmett did so. "You need help opening it?"
"I closed it up. I can open it," Noreen assured.
"Okay, Grandma," Emmett smiled at Nasir who smiled right back from where he stood holding the room door open. "Are you hungry, Grandma?"
"It's been a long day, but I might could nibble a bit," Noreen considered. "Just let me freshen up," she headed into the bathroom.
"Go knock on Carson's door, Babe," Emmett bid. "We're gonna meet you downstairs, Grandma."
"Where?" Noreen poked her head out of the bathroom.
"The lobby bar. It's called the Fireside Room. Come down whenever you're ready," Emmett instructed.
"I'll just be a few minutes," Noreen shut the bathroom door. The front desk clerk had placed two key cards in each little room key envelope. Emmett noticed that his grandmother placed both her key and the packet with the spare key down on the little desk beside her purse. He slipped the spare key from the packet and put it in his pocket before he joined his partner in the hall.
"Hey," Carson opened his door after Nasir's knock just as Emmett walked up.
"We're gonna go down to the Fireside Room to get a drink. We can get a bite there too if you're hungry," Emmett informed.
"Are you kidding? You know what time it is at home? I'm fucking starving," Carson displayed the same healthy McCarty appetite his brother did. "I'm coming with you. Honey," he called over his shoulder, "I'm gonna go downstairs to the bar with the guys. Come down when you're done."
"Fine," Sonja's answer came from the open bathroom door.
"You want me to take Connor?" Carson asked.
"No. Leave him with me," Sonja answered.
"Okay, Honey," Carson stepped out of his room and let the door close. "Let's go!"
"Mom," Emmett knocked on his mother's room door. "Meet us downstairs," he called through the door. "Mom," he knocked again when he didn't get an answer.
"Let's go. She'll figure it out," Carson urged.
"Was?" Auguste opened her door and leaned out.
"We're all gonna go down and get a drink, Mom," Emmett informed.
"Ja. I be down, fűnf minuten," Auguste gave a nod.
"Okay, see you down there. Fireside Room, you can't miss it," Emmett instructed.
"Ja," Auguste confirmed and shut her door. Emmett, Nasir and Carson headed back to the elevators and rode down to the lobby.
Situated between the lobby and the Hunt Club restaurant was the cozy Fireside Room lounge. It had more of the rich Honduran mahogany paneled walls, deep tobacco leather wingback chairs and matching sofas. The focal point of the room was the big green Rockwood tile fireplace. Every evening, and today was no exception, a pleasant fire in the hearth gave a relaxed and home-like atmosphere.
"Oh, wow," Carson admired as they walked into the lounge. They found a long sofa and pulled up chairs to make seating for all of them around a long coffee table.
"You guys, this is really nice. Why didn't we stay here when we came out for your graduation way back when?" Carson sat down on the sofa.
"None of us could afford this place back then and it's nowhere near the university district anyway," Emmett answered. He pulled a wing chair up to the one Nasir occupied across from Carson, until the arms of the two chairs touched. Nasir smiled up at his partner as he sat down beside him.
"Yeah, I guess you're right. What part of town are we in? Are we near you guys' house?" Carson asked.
"Not far," Emmett answered. "This part of the city is called Capital Hill. It's the gay section, actually."
"Of course it is," Carson gave a nod.
"Evening, boys," a waitress in a men's white tux shirt, black bow tie, pants and long apron appeared. She had a very broad and inviting smile for the three attractive men. "Something from the bar?" she asked as she placed the special bar fare menus on their low table.
"Spaten?" Carson asked.
"No," she shook her head. "Beck's?"
"Beck's is good," Carson nodded.
"Two," Emmett held up the first two fingers of his right hand.
"And for you, sir?" she asked Nasir.
"Laphraoig, on the rocks, please," Nasir answered.
"And no again," she shook her head. "Talisker?"
"Make it three Beck's," Nasir instructed.
"Change your mind that fast?" Carson asked with a grin.
"I would rather have a beer that I like, than a scotch I do not," Nasir explained.
"Okay. Glasses?" their waitress asked.
"No," all three of them chorused in unison.
"I'll be right back with your brews, boys," she gave a nod.
"Thank you, Shelly," Carson smiled. He made a point to read her name tag. Something which Shelly did not fail to appreciate and turned her even broader smile on him before she departed in the direction of the bar. Emmett and Nasir exchanged a smile as Carson watched their waitress walk away.
"Damn, I'm sorry you two can't appreciate that," Carson commented while still watching Shelly.
"Maybe you should appreciate your wife," Emmett chided.
"I do appreciate my wife. I'm married, Em, not dead. I can still notice a pretty girl when I see one," Carson argued. "Tell me you guys don't ever notice other guys."
"Another attractive man around here besides Emmett?" Nasir made a point of looking around. "No, I do not see one."
Emmett tried very hard not to snicker as this went right over his brother's head.
"I don't necessarily mean right this second, I mean ever," Carson explained. "Whatever, you guys," he gave a dismissive wave as he could see he was not going to get anywhere with them.
"Besides, there's no way this girl is as pretty as Sonja. Your wife is beautiful, Car," Emmett stated.
"You think I don't know that? You're Goddamn right my wife is beautiful. Sonja's a Nordic goddess. She's the most beautiful girl in the whole fucking world. All over, I might add, and I love her with all my heart. She's not only my wife, she's the mother of my son. I will never, ever want another woman, Em. Let me make that very clear. I have eyes, is all I'm saying," Carson explained.
"All over, huh," Emmett smiled.
"Bro, my wife has the most beautiful breasts," Carson cupped his hand, "and the sweetest pussy, I can't even tell you."
"I wish you hadn't told me," Emmett shook his head while Nasir giggled.
"It makes me sad for you guys that you will never know the joy of licking-," Carson stopped abruptly as Shelly returned with their bottles.
"Here we are, boys," Shelly bore a tray with their bottles.
"Just in time," Emmett commented.
"Thirsty?" Shelly asked with a smile.
"That too," Nasir answered for him.
Shelly placed cocktail napkins on the table and set their beer bottles upon them. "Do you want to order anything from the kitchen?"
"We're waiting for the rest of our party to join us. We'll order then. Should be any time now. Keep an eye on us," Emmett instructed.
"And hang on to this," Nasir handed over his credit card.
"I can just charge this to my room, you guys," Carson offered.
"Not while I am here," Nasir shook his head.
"I'll keep my eye on you boys," Shelly smiled and walked away.
"So, Car, you were saying," Emmett began.
"Oh, yeah!" Carson enthused.
"Actually," Emmett interrupted, "I was just thinking that I might say the same of you, that you'll never know the joy of another man's dick."
"My dick is all the dick we are ever gonna need in our bed," Carson took a swig of his beer.
"Perhaps I should expound on how wonderful Nasi's dick is and how much I love it in my-," Emmett charged ahead.
"Whoa!" Carson held up his hands. "Jesus, Em! Nasir, I love you, man, and I'm glad you make my brother so happy. You're one of the family, but I do not want to hear the details."
"I'm pretty sure we had a conversation much like this quite a few years ago," Emmett thought back.
"Oh, yeah!" Carson laughed. "I was still in high school! We were having that talk and I said, 'but, Em, pussy'!"
"And I said, 'but, Car, cock'!" Emmett laughed with his brother. Nasir laughed with them both.
"Imagine having that conversation with your brother, Nasi," Emmett took his partner's hand.
"You know what he is like. Kasim and his friends would drive me into the desert and I would never be heard from again," Nasir stated.
"Oh, shit," Carson found that more than a little sobering. "God, why are people like that?" he shook his head. "Hey, Nasir, your immigration issues are all settled now, right?"
"I have a green card," Nasir was only too happy to produce it from his wallet.
"Oh, yeah. I've never actually seen one of these," Carson took it and looked it over.
"Was is das?" Auguste asked as she walked up to them.
"It's Nasi's green card," Emmett was just as proud as his partner was. Auguste plopped down on the sofa beside her younger son and leaned over on him. Her reading glasses hung round her neck on a chain and she quickly put them on.
"Ach! Dies ist eine gute!" Auguste endorsed with a nod.
"Mom, speak English," Emmett requested.
"You must have had one of these once, Mutti," Carson surmised.
"Ja," Auguste confirmed. "Before I am naturalized. It did not look like this though. It was a paper thing."
"Someday I will be naturalized," Nasir looked to Emmett with such hope in his eyes. They both looked forward to their long and happy future together. Emmett could not help but smile back as he squeezed his lover's hand.
Connor toddled around the end of the sofa looking for his father. He had heard his father's voice and once he found his dad, ran to his legs.
"Hey, there's my little man," Carson picked his son up and sat him on the sofa beside him. It was just exactly where Connor wanted to be. Sonja perched on the edge of the sofa on the other side of her son and Noreen took the last wing chair.
"You guys want a drink? And let's order some food too. I'm starving," Carson picked up the menus. "Honey," he held one so that his wife could read it as well. There were only the three menus on the table.
"Let me look at the cocktail menu first," Sonja bid as she turned it over.
"I can't get over how big he is already," Emmett watched Connor sit beside his brother.
"He was just a baby when last we saw him," Nasir agreed.
"Seems like it was just a couple of weeks ago when I flew out for his birth," Emmett shook his head. "Now you got a mini me, Car."
"Yeah I do," Carson smiled down on his son and pulled him closer.
"He's his daddy's boy, that's for sure," Sonja commented as she ran a hand over her son's head. "Everything daddy does, he wants to do."
"There was a stretch there when everything he did, I wanted to do," Carson gave his wife a leer.
"You mean shit your pants?" Emmett could not resist.
"Emmett!" Auguste chastised.
"Did I say everything? I meant one thing in particular," Carson corrected himself.
"Hello there. I see the gang's all here," Shelly returned. "Something from the bar for you ladies?"
"Get me a lemon basil collins," Sonja ordered. "And an apple juice for my little one."
"I have a glass of the riesling," Auguste was easy.
"How about a nutty Irishman?" Noreen asked.
"I don't think we have that on our menu," Shelly answered carefully.
"Do you have Frangelico?" Noreen simplified matters.
"We do," Shelly confirmed.
"I know you have coffee," Noreen finished.
"Very good coffee," Shelly stated.
"This is Seattle, Grandma," Emmett commented.
"Then you can make a nutty Irishman," Noreen concluded. "Make it a tall one. And a double. The Frangelico, not the coffee."
"I'll get those drink orders right in and give you another minute with the menu," Shelly dashed away.
Carson made no attempt whatever to stifle a gigantic yawn.
"We keepin' you up, Car?" Emmett teased.
"This beer is gonna put me to bed. I just wanna get something to eat and snuggle up with my wife in that nice big bed," Carson expressed.
"He had to be at the station at five this morning," Sonja added and rubbed her husband's knee.
"Oh, higher up, Honey," Carson gave a grin as he made everyone laugh.
"Mutti, you think you could take Connor for a night?" Sonja asked.
"Ja, I do that," Auguste smiled. If her son and daugther-in-law wanted to engage in marital activity that might, as a result, produce another grandbaby, she was all for it.
"I'll take him!" Noreen chimed in. She was of like mind. No one bothered to contradict her, but they all knew she would likely be asleep before the child.
As it worked out, both Connor and Noreen fell asleep before long. Carson yawned through a burger and a second beer while his son slept against his side and their little matriarch slept in her huge wing chair. Only Noreen snored. The other hearty McCarty appetite had the burger as well, while his partner had the seafood combo. Sonja shared her grilled cheese and basil tomato soup with her son before sleep claimed him. Auguste had the pork belly confit and Noreen picked at a cheese plate.
"So, what's on the agenda tomorrow?" Carson leaned back comfortably in the sofa and snuggled his son.
"I guess whatever you guys would like to do. I thought maybe we could have lunch at SkyCity," Emmett offered.
"Where's that?" Sonja asked.
"It's up in the top of the Space Needle," Emmett answered.
"Oh, yeah. We'd love that, wouldn't we, Honey?" Carson enthused. "I'll bet the view is great from up there."
"Is it a revolving restaurant?" Auguste asked.
"It is," Emmett confirmed.
"Ach, gut. We take our time and see everything," Auguste gave a final nod.
"So, in the morning?" Carson spread his hands.
"Call us when you get up," Nasir smiled.
"They're on Minnesota time, Babe," Emmett put a hand on his partner's knee. "Call us after you have breakfast."
"Get your lazy, gay butts over here and join us for breakfast," Carson commanded.
"Okay, call us when you wake up," Emmett gave in. "But please take your time waking up."
"When can we see your home? I want to do that," Auguste requested.
"Anytime," Emmett agreed.
"Maybe we can all just order a pizza and relax there tomorrow night? We would love to have all of you in our home," Nasir smiled.
"Good idea, Nasi," Emmett nodded.
"Ja. We do that," Auguste decided.
"I think I might grab one more beer for the elevator ride," Carson yawned. "Then I'm very ready to turn in."
"You want I take Connor?" Auguste asked.
"Not tonight, Mutti," Carson shook his head. "I'm wiped. I just wanna snuggle up to my girl and go to sleep."
"Snore in my face, is what he means," Sonja teased.
"Sonja! I don't snore!" Carson countered.
"Yeah you do," Sonja countered. "It's just a gentle, soft, little snore. Really it's cute," she smiled at him and rubbed his leg.
"Okay," Carson accepted that.
"How are we doing here?" Shelly checked on them. "Can I bring anyone anything else?"
"One more," Carson gestured with his bottle and drained it.
"One more Beck's. Anyone else?" Shelly asked again.
"Just the check when you have a moment," Nasir bid.
"Will do," Shelly headed off toward the bar.
"Okay, Em. I'm gonna carry my son. You can carry Gram," Carson pointed.
"She hasn't had that much to drink," Emmett pointed out.
"Hey, when can we see Seth?" Carson asked with a smile.
"He is looking forward to seeing you," Nasir nodded.
"His husband Garrett's family is in town, so they'll be busy with them for the most part, but you'll see everyone on Friday for sure," Emmett informed.
"Garrett is the guy we met at the airport that time when you guys were going out for Seth's dad's funeral?" Carson asked.
"That's him," Emmett confirmed.
"What's he like?" Sonja asked. She only vaguely remembered her husband mentioning Seth's.
"He seems like a nice guy," Carson answered.
"He is," Nasir confirmed.
"He is good boy. I can tell," Auguste declared.
"He sure seems to love Seth. Anyone could see it that day," Carson added.
"He does," Emmett stated. "That was a tough trip on all of us, but especially on those two."
Nasir said nothing, but took his partner's hand again in solidarity.
"You guys sure look like you love each other too. It's nice, Em," Carson smiled at his brother.
"Ja," Auguste echoed the sentiment.
"Thanks, Car," Emmett was touched.
"You are all very sweet," Nasir was touched as well.
"You guys better be coming home for Christmas. You know you have to every year, right?" Carson expressed.
"Ja, ja," Auguste was right with her younger son.
"We will," Emmett nodded.
"We always will," Nasir added. "I would not want to be anyplace else."
"You guys should come in the summer too. I think Nasir might like the lake better when it's not frozen," Carson smiled.
"Ach! You stay off the lake when it is frozen!" Auguste wapped Carson on his arm.
"We should have all of you to our home in Telluride this winter," Nasir suggested. "You all love the snow and cold so much."
"Oh my God, we would love that!" Carson enthused.
"I think we can waive the no bathing suits in the hot tub rule for you guys," Emmett gave his dimples.
"Yes, I think we will not be adhering to that rule," Carson was firm.
"I don't know. I kind of like that rule," Sonja looked her brothers-in-law over.
"No, Honey. You don't like that rule. You don't like it at all," Carson shook his head vigorously.
"It does sound like a fun trip though. I went to Beaver Creek with my girlfriends one year and I loved it," Sonja smiled at the memories.
"That's where I wanna go, Beaver Creek," Carson gave his wife a sly smile.
"Shut up," Sonja gave her husband a smack on his knee.
"I thought you were tired, Car," Emmett teased.
"I am. I am very tired," Carson tried to stifle another yawn. "I will be ready for all the Beaver Creek I can find in the morning though."
"Here we are. This is for you," Shelly set the beer in front of Carson. "And this is for you," she placed the small leather folder in front of Nasir.
"Thank you," Nasir picked up the leather folder.
"Where are you all visiting from?" Shelly made small talk while Nasir signed the check.
"We're locals," Emmett gestured to his partner. "The rest of the family flew in for our wedding," he smiled. Nasir smiled at Emmett. They were both very proud and looked every bit of it.
"Sorry, who's getting married?" Shelly did not get it.
"I am, to him," Emmett clarified.
"Oh! And he's married," Shelly pointed at Carson. "No wonder I couldn't catch any of your eyes! You guys have a nice night and congratulations to you two," she patted Nasir on the shoulder as he handed her back the check. "Come in and see me again," Shelly bid and walked away.
"Thanks. Good night," Emmett bid.
"C'mon, Honey. Take me to bed," Carson rubbed his wife's back.
"Gram," Emmett called. He rose when his only response was another snore. "Grandma," Emmett put his hand on her shoulder.
"Hmm? What's that?" Noreen opened her eyes and blinked. "Just resting my eyes."
"Okay. Time to rest your eyes in bed," Emmett smiled.
"Did we get the check?" Noreen asked as she reached for her purse.
"Nasi got the check," Emmett informed.
"Thank you, Nasir," the spry old woman was quickly on her feet.
"Ja, danke," Auguste chimed in.
"You are all most welcome," Nasir smiled as the rest of them stood as well.
"Grab my beer, Honey," Carson scooped his son up in his arms as he rose. "Okay, so we'll see you guys for breakfast," he spoke as they all headed back out to the lobby. "What say about four thirty local time?"
"Carson," Auguste chided.
"You're an ass," Emmett told his snickering brother.
"I am shutting the phones off," Nasir nodded to himself.
"Car, here's the valet ticket for the Range Rover. It's yours while you're here," Emmett produced it from his pocket.
"Thanks, Bro," Carson said as his wife took the ticket and put it in her purse. "I'd rather have the Maserati, but Sonja's right. I need to be a responsible father."
"We see you in the morning," Auguste hugged her eldest son.
"I'm so glad you're all here," Emmett told his mother.
"Come here, my Nasir," Auguste moved to her son-in-law and gave him a tight hug as well. Carson managed a one armed hug with his son sleeping against his chest.
"Good night," Emmett gave a wave as his relatives boarded the next elevator.
"Good night," Nasir echoed. They waited until the elevator doors closed them in before they turned and headed for the front doors. Emmett smiled at his partner and took his hand as they walked.
"Sirs," the valet/bellman at the stand outside the front entrance smiled his greeting. "Get your car for you?"
"Please," Emmett handed over the ticket for the Grancabrio.
"Be right back, sir," the teenager took off at a trot.
"No hurry," Emmett called after him. He didn't want the kid to have to run. And if the young man had any issue with two men holding hands, he sure didn't show it.
"You want me to drive, Babe?" Emmett asked.
"It is your car," Nasir smiled back.
Emmett finally only let go of his lover's hand when the valet drove up with their car. "Thanks," he slipped a ten into the valet's hand as the kid got out of the car.
"Thank you, sir. Have a nice night," the valet gave a wave. Emmett smiled back at him as he took the wheel of his car. It would only be a short drive to their home, but it was a pleasant night and there would be only so many more of them.
"This is nice," Nasir smiled and relaxed into his seat as Emmett took a moment to put the top down. He was home with his love. Their family and friends were gathering for them. He was as content as he could ever remember being. Emmett put the car in gear and took Nasir's hand again as he drove them away from the hotel.
"I am so happy that they are here," Nasir confessed.
"I am too, Nasi. They all love you, you know," Emmett stated.
"I do know that. They very much make me feel it," Nasir assured. "I love them very much too."
"I just hope they're not up too damn early tomorrow," Emmett expressed as he drove them back under I-5 into downtown.
"Why would your brother rather go to Beaver Creek than to Telluride with us? I did not understand that. Is it just because that is where Sonja went once?" Nasir asked.
"No, Babe," Emmett smiled as he realized that his Emirati partner did not get it. "Beaver is another word for pussy. That's what he meant."
"Oh," Nasir understood. "That is why he said he would be ready for Beaver Creek in the morning."
"Right," Emmett confirmed.
"That's fine for him. I do not like Beaver Creek," Nasir shook his head.
"Have you ever been to Beaver Creek? You might like it," Emmett teased.
"I do not have to go to Beaver Creek to know that it does not appeal to me," Nasir stated.
"Lucky for me," Emmett lifted Nasir's hand to his face to kiss it. The cell bleeped at that moment and Emmett let go of Nasir's hand to fish his phone out of his jeans pocket. He just handed it to Nasir without looking at it.
"Ah, it is a note from Sethy," Nasir called up the text. "Need to decompress? Come up," he read.
"Good ole Seth, right on time," Emmett cocked his head.
"At last, some good scotch," Nasir sighed.
Emmett drove them to their building and into the underground parking garage. He parked in his own space beside the McLaren and put the top up. They did not stop on their floor and just headed right up to fifteen. Emmett paused to give a soft rap on the double doors before he used his own key.
"Hey, guys," Emmett called as he let them into Seth and Garrett's home. The penthouse was dimly lit by only the occasional lamp and quiet. Emmett headed straight for the bar and Nasir followed. "Are they outside?" he asked as he bent to the icemaker to fill a tumbler for his partner.
"I do not see them," Nasir looked through the closed French doors to the terrace.
"They can't be far," Emmett poured his lover a healthy scotch and opened a beer for himself.
"In here, guys," Seth called from deeper within the penthouse. Nasir took his tumbler from Emmett and followed him as they followed the sound of Seth's voice.
In the media room, with the big screen now muted, Garrett lay on the wide part of the big sectional sofa. Seth sat between his legs and reclined against his chest. They were both clad in only boxers. A cosmo and a martini stood close at hand.
"Evening, boys," Garrett greeted as Emmett and Nasir walked in.
"Don't you two look cozy," Emmett smiled.
"Join us," Garrett bid.
"Nasir, are you drinking your horrible scotch?" Seth asked as Emmett and Nasir pulled up two club chairs.
"Well, how is Emmett's breath supposed to smell like it does, if I do not flavor my cum with peat?" Nasir replied as he made the ice cubes clink in his glass.
"Ha! Smartass," Seth liked that answer. "Your family all get in okay?"
"The whole McCarty circus is in town," Emmett answered. He and Nasir both kicked off their shoes and wound their bare feet together.
"It is so nice to be with them again," Nasir smiled. "How is your family, Garrett?"
"Very well, thank you," Garrett took a sip of his martini.
"I am looking very forward to seeing your dad again so I can thank him in person," Emmett expressed.
"I am looking very forward to meeting him," Nasir added.
"You'll see them all here on Friday. Dad has a golf date with a couple of his cronies tomorrow. One of them is the judge you saw, Nasir," Garrett informed.
"Hey, has the riddle of your grandmother's car been solved?" Emmett asked.
"In fact, it has," Garrett confirmed.
"It's not what they were thinking," Seth smiled.
"We all met them at the airport, just like we did the last time. Justin, Melinda and Stephanie met us in Justin's car. We took the Rolls, as instructed, and just like last time, we men rode to the hotel in that. They checked in and afterward we all had a cocktail in the piano bar there in the lobby of the Fairmont," Garrett set the stage.
"Sounds a lot like our evening," Emmett commented.
"After the second round came, Mother E wanted to speak with Justin and me privately. We accompanied her up to her room and she sat us down to talk to us," Garrett filled in .
"Uh, oh. Sounds ominous," Emmett observed.
"We thought so too. Justin was convinced that Mother E was going to announce plans to move in with him and, quite frankly, I was pretty certain of that too," Garrett confessed. "But it turns out that her eyesight is not what it was and she can't drive anymore. My mother wanted to hire her a driver, but she said she didn't want to hire a man to drive her around in her own car. She said she would feel like Driving Miss Daisy."
"Driving Miss E," Seth giggled.
"So now they have a service who sends a car for her, as and when she needs to go anywhere. She already has a favorite driver that she asks for when she calls. Arthur is his name and she calls him Artie," Garrett smiled.
"But why is her car here?" Emmett prodded.
"Ah. She loves that old thing, you see. So she wanted one of us to have it. Justin is older, so she gave him, what I like to call, the right of first refusal," Garrett revealed.
"And did he?" Nasir asked.
"Of course he did. He doesn't want that old thing any more than I do. I mean, he didn't tell her that, but I know he doesn't want it. His memories of it are no more pleasant than mine," Garrett stated.
"What are you going to do with it?" Nasir asked.
"You could sell it, Honey," Seth suggested. "Justin and Melinda can have the money. They can take a vacation on it or something. Take a cruise to Alaska or Mexico maybe."
"You could drive it, Sweetie," Emmett grinned.
"No I couldn't," Seth shook his head. "That thing is way too big for me."
"Words I never thought I would ever hear come out of your mouth," Emmett was amazed.
"Ha! Actually, that particular thing is just exactly right," Seth smiled.
"Are we still talking about the car?" Emmett teased.
"Nope," Seth confirmed with a broad smile.
"You're just exactly right," Garrett set down his martini to focus on Seth. He ran one had across the smooth, dark chest, letting his fingers play lightly over Seth's nipples. He ran the fingers of his other hand through Seth's silken hair. Seth leaned back and turned his head to share a gentle and loving kiss with his husband.
"Actually, we can't sell it. It would break her heart. I think I have Justin talked into taking it for Melinda," Garrett informed.
"That's a good idea," Emmett nodded.
"As long as she does not ask any strange men for mustard," Nasir added and made them all laugh.
"I don't think she cares for strange mustard," Garrett stated.
"Are we still talking about condiments?" Emmett asked.
"Nope," Seth confirmed again.
"Oh, Sethy, I need your help," Nasir began.
"Sure. With what?" Seth was only too ready to be of assistance.
"Emmett invited our family to come skiing in Telluride this winter," Nasir informed.
"Oh, that sounds like fun," Seth agreed.
"But Emmett waived the hot tub rules for them," Nasir dropped his bomb.
"Oh, no. I'm so sorry," Seth shook his head. "The hot tub rules are etched in stone, irrevocable, enduring and unchanging. I'm so sorry, Emmy."
"World without end. Amen," Garrett intoned.
"Exactly," Seth gave a nod.
"Seth, I don't want to get in the hot tub naked with my brother and, more importantly, he doesn't want to get in naked with me, or anyone who is not his wife, for that matter," Emmett expressed.
"Garrett got in with his brother. I got in with my sister. You two can, and will, too," Seth made his point with raised finger.
"I knew I could count on you, Emira," Nasir smiled.
"Nice," Emmett looked to his partner. "You just can't wait to get me and my brother naked in the hot tub together."
"Side by side. I cannot imagine a more mouthwatering sight," Nasir smiled.
"Leave it to me, Nasir, and put it from your mind. There will be no bathing suits in my hot tub," Seth assured. "On hot, straight guys especially."
"I am glad that is settled," Nasir gave a relieved sigh.
"Okay, now to matters nearly as important as naked men, your wedding," Seth took charge. "The gift baskets for your family should have been in their rooms."
"Oh, shit. I think they were. I didn't remember to look," Emmett looked to his partner.
"They were there. I saw them," Nasir stated.
"Good. What did we get them?" Emmett asked.
"Every out of town guest will have a gift basket from you two waiting in their room," Seth outlined. "Your mom got a basket with two different sausages from Dan the Sausageman, Tillamood cheddar cheese, Fontazzi honey mustard pretzels, Walla Walla sweet onion crackers, Anna's Pantry roasted hazelnuts, Portlock smoked wild King Salmon, some white chocolates and a bottle of riesling, on ice."
"That's perfect, Seth. She'll love all of that," Emmett endorsed.
"Your Grandmother's is the same, but in place of the pretzels, hazelnuts and wine, she got caramel corn, roasted and salted peanuts, and a bottle of Baileys," Seth continued.
"You know them so well. It's like they're your family too," Emmett stated.
"Well, they almost are." Seth agreed. "Carson and Sonja's basket has a nice, rich cabernet, espresso beans covered in white, milk and dark chocolate, lavender foam bath, lavender shower gel and lotion, Walla Walla rosemary crackers, Portlock smoked salmon spread and white chocolate covered popcorn."
"They can nibble while they take a lavender soak," Nasir smiled.
"And discuss the first thing that comes up," Seth wagged his eyebrows.
"Sounds like you got it covered, Sweetie. What about Garrett's family?" Emmett asked.
"You got Mother E the same thing that your grandmother got, but with a bottle of sherry instead of the Baileys. Our parents," Seth did not need to see his husband's face to know about the smile his choice of words brought, "got one a lot like your mom's, but with a bottle of Remy Martin champagne cognac and a Waterman fountain pen for the judge."
"Father was most appreciative and was looking forward to a snifter as soon as they got back to the hotel," Garrett added.
"Good job, Seth," Emmett approved.
"Thank you, Emira," Nasir added.
"What about Leo and Zack?" Emmett asked.
"I didn't forget them. Theirs has a bottle of champagne on ice, white chocolate covered blueberries, the same crackers and salmon mousse, Seattle's Own shortbread cookies and warming massage oil. I would have included condoms, but fit is important and I haven't had the opportunity to take Zack's measurements," Seth gave a resigned sigh.
"We need to take Zack's measurements, Habibi," Nasir gave a grin.
"I'm sure Leo won't mind," Emmett laughed.
"I put the exact same gift basket in Edward and Jasper's room," Seth informed. "Edward is not an out of town guest, but Jasper is, and I'm quite sure Edward can help him find a use for the champagne and massage oil."
"Good thinking, Sweetie," Emmett nodded.
"I wonder how their trip is going?" Garrett mused aloud.
"We didn't hear from them today, so I'm a little disappointed about that, but I know things are going even better for them both than they hoped," Seth expressed.
"No news is good news," Emmett stated.
"I am very happy for them both. They are good men and deserve to be happy together," Nasir added.
"I couldn't agree more, Nasir," Garrett seconded.
"Now we just have to wait for them to get back. Hey, remember the last time we were waiting for Edward to get back from the great white North?" Seth thought back.
"Oh, yeah," Emmett remembered it well. "It was a year ago..."
