Picking out the one black suit he owned Spud couldn't help but pair it with a Christmas tree themed bowtie, Ethan had insisted he didn't care what he wore but he didn't want to embarrass the other man, especially once he'd learned they were attending a church choir service. Finally satisfied with his appearance he swallowed back the flutter of nerves at the knock on his door. It was growing difficult not to give in and confess his feelings to the other man, an urge not helped at all by the fact it was beginning to look more and more like Ethan might share his feelings. That or Ethan just liked torturing him.
Throwing the door open Spud flushed when Ethan's gaze immediately raked over his clothes, "do I pass muster, Sir?" His voice hitched briefly when Ethan reached out and straightened his bowtie, shivering as fingers brushed warm and teasing against his neck.
"You very much pass muster tiger," smoothing his hands over Spud's shoulders Ethan clung to his self-control by his fingertips. As much as he longed to lean down the few inches separating them and kiss Spud's shy smile he had a plan. A plan to both convince Spud they belonged together and to blow away his families expectations all at the same time. Clearing his throat he instead offered his arm, "are you ready to go?"
"I'm looking forward to it," shrugging on his jacket Spud took Ethan's arm, not surprised to find a driver waiting for them he equally wasn't surprised when the church they were headed for was in a neighbourhood Dixie would never frequent.
"So why did you want to attend this recital?" Nodding politely to the valet collecting jackets Spud keep his voice pitched low, gazing around at the magnificent grand hall he marvelled at the intricate wooden details and the stained glass that seemed to glow. Obeying the hand nudging him forward he sat near the back of the hall, sliding down to the end of the pew they were off-side just enough their section wasn't too crowded.
"I overheard a conversation that this was the best choir in the city," shifting a fraction closer to Spud as a rather large woman sat beside him Ethan looked around the hall with interest. It was nicer than he'd expected, even Aunt D would have a hard time complaining.
"And only the best for a Carter of course," teasing Spud flushed as the man in front of him turned around and shushed him. From the corner of his eye he could see Ethan scowl and he squeezed his arm, shaking his head minutely when the bigger man opened his mouth.
Huffing Ethan sat back and claimed Spud's hand, holding on despite the sideways look he got from the women next to him. Determined not to let anyone spoil his night he glared at her until she turned away before glancing down to meet Spud's slyly pleased smile. Tangling their fingers together his attention was consumed by the choir as they started to sing, lost to the glorious music he remained oblivious to the blue eyes fixed on his face.