Luck Of The Draw
OH HENRY!
"Hank my boy, good to see you Son," exclaimed Tony!
"Oh my gosh Tony, it's so good to see you. And I'm thrilled you and Angela are back together. You guys had us all so worried. I'll have to wait to talk to Sam with the time difference. I am so glad no links in our chain are missing anymore," said Hank.
"Yes. I'm happy to be back with my family, with the love of my life. Iowa and Wells College was a good experience and opportunity, but nothing is more important than Angela. Let this be a lesson to you Son, don't let anything ever disrupt your obligation as a man to love, protect, and provide for your lady and family when you have one," Tony lectured.
"Oh, I hear you Dad," exclaimed Hank! "Is it okay that I call you Dad," asked Hank?
"Yeah, it's okay Hank. You're my son, now that you and Samantha are married. And we practically live together under one roof. You'll be Son and I'll be Dad," confirmed Tony.
"Tony, I mean Dad, that's great," Hank replied. "So, I know you've heard that we are all probably classified under malnutrition since you've been gone. My parents had us over for dinner a few times a week before Angela moved back. The housekeepers she hired weren't horrible, but they couldn't cook great food like you either. That last one deep fried everything. And when Angela attempted to cook, we just all ended up throwing it out and getting Chinese or Pizza. My mom would make a casserole here or there too. Angela doesn't eat much since she got back. Mona said she was lovesick and missing you. Well, I guess that's about to change. I bet she was thrilled to see you walk in the door. From the looks of things, it must have been some reunion", Hank signified in acknowledgement of Tony wearing Angela's fuzzy pink robe.
"Ah, yeah, well Hank we did have quite the reunion. It is good to return home and to be back with My Love. And I'm wearing Angela's robe because I don't have any luggage, I came straight from the banquet with my tuxedo on, so my skivvies are in the wash," defended Tony. I'll have to thank Joe and Fran for being supportive of the family in my absence too. Maybe I'll bake your dad a dirty cake to show my appreciation. Tony was taken back a bit by Hank reporting a change in Angela's appetite. He decided not to say anything further on it but observe her himself. It could just be she was depressed and miserable or it could be that she couldn't stomach her cooking or anyone else's. "Well right now, we are in a renewed space. How many waffles and how would you like your eggs this morning Son," Tony inquired?
"Good morning, Hank," exclaimed Angela as she entered the room and hugged his shoulders. How about our wonderful surprise," Angela exclaimed?
"Morning Angela. Dad being home is great and I know you're ecstatic. Oh, and I'll have three waffles and scrambled eggs, if that's okay Dad," Hank replied?
"Dad," a pleasantly shocked Angela inquired?
"Ah yeah Sweetheart. We decided this morning that I'd be Dad and Hank will be Son," Tony responded smiling.
"Oh, that's beautiful guys. Pronouns and nicknames show endearment between loved ones. And you should develop those bonds between yourselves at this stage in the relationship. Especially with us all being together under one roof," Angela said. "And Hank, I'm completely overjoyed that Tony came home for me, for us," confessed a blushing Angela. "By the way Tony, we're all set for the weekend. You're going to be really pleased and surprised with the package we got," Angela said in a dancing voice.
"Weekend! Is something up," Hank asked?
"Yes Son. Angela and I will be leaving the house this weekend. We want to be alone and out of the house. I'll leave you all the information before we go in case of an emergency, but we really don't want to be found or disturbed. So, you'll have the house to yourself for the weekend. Just don't tell Mona or Jonathan if you talk to them. Neither of them knows that I am back, and I want to greet them face to face, not let them hear it through the grapevine. Plus, I don't want to alert nosey Fairfield I'm back before the family knows. You probably know that Jonathan is on a J.R.O.T.C. weekend retreat and Mona is on an extended weekend excursion as of this morning. We'll see them both Monday evening," Tony said.
"Don't worry, your secret is safe with me! Besides I have a ton to prepare for this weekend. I'll be on interviews all next week, presenting and pitching my new ideas and concepts in the city. I have voices and scripts to improve, and puppets that need to appear flawless. I can probably concentrate more since Sam is gone too," Hank said.
"That's right Hank. Sam said you had interviews coming up and that's why you weren't coming to LA. So, tell me Son, what type of interviews do you have," Tony asked?
"Well, the two big interviews are with Sesame Street Workshop of America and Nickelodeon. Then there is Broadway Kids. Broadway Kids is a new initiative that is being developed. My professor recommended that I apply to become a part of this new concept with my bachelor's degree in Theater and minor in Biology. But I don't want to get caught up solely in working at this stage in my life. I'm really focused, and I will pursue my graduate studies at UCONN in Puppetry and Curriculum & Instruction in the fall. With Sam having two more years of school and then grad school herself, I have enough time to do and extensive program that won't take away from our goals as a couple. I'll probably earn a certification to teach in Connecticut and New York after my masters, in case I need to work in an actual school. Angela's cousin Christy suggested that when she came by and we began talking. She's having me do some activities with her students next school year to boost my resume. And who knows, maybe there is a Doctorate in Education Psychology in my future as well," Hank replied.
"My dad still doesn't understand or accept my career path, but my mom is supportive. With such specialized dreams, specialized studies are required so I can make a great living. He can't accept that I can actually make a great living in Educational Entertainment just as I could if I was a doctor. The world is really changing in this area and with the advancements in media I have a great shot at being in on some groundbreaking opportunities in educational entertainment. I know I seem really ambitious, but I promise I won't be a starving artist, with Sam supporting us both. There is really a market for education puppeteering. I researched it," Hank assured. That is why I am going to grad school for specialty studies. I can't be a part of the conversation without proper preparation," Hank replied.
Tony couldn't believe his ears. This wasn't the same Hank he left before he went to Iowa working in a factory. This guy had become a man in his absence. Tony felt proud of him. As he passed him a plate with his eggs and waffles, Tony said, "Oh Henry, Hank, Son … being ambitious about your dreams is the foundation you need to make it. I have to admit, your career choice from pre-med to theater was alarming, but you definitely have a plan, a vision, and some goals. The interviews you have lined up sound very promising. You're definitely going to need the weekend to prepare for those before everyone files in. You should have a good 48 hours to yourself, so soak it up. Like I said we won't start heading back before Monday, early evening," Tony confirmed.
"And don't worry about Joe. He's just concerned because he loves you. He wants the best for you. Like you said he doesn't understand it. He's a practical guy, not very progressive. Give him time. As he sees growth in your career, he'll come around. You just focus on the plan you have in motion. I'm very glad to hear you have perspective about your education and career, and how that will all relate to you and Sam. Ahh, not to seem overbearing, but have you considered tapping into your teaching certification early to ensure you can work in a classroom while you are in grad school, if needed? You also mentioned couple plans, what couple plans do you and Sam have, if you don't mind me asking," inquired Tony?
Angela cut her eyes at Tony to say, I can't believe you just said that to him! Here poor Hank is pouring his soul out to his father-n-law looking for support for his plans for the future, and Tony is trying to tell him a better way while prying. He already can't talk to Joe about his plans, that's why they live with us. And he knows Samantha would be so upset if Hank discusses their couple plans without her being a part of the conversation.
Quickly Angela chooses to interject to save the moment from going south, "Hank that all sounds amazing. You really have a challenging week ahead of you. But you're a hard worker and determined young man. I'm more than confident that one of your prospects will come through. I'm excited about your graduate studies program. It sounds vigorous and intense. I'm sure your academic advisor was meticulous in helping you outline such details to help you achieve your goals. I'm sure the route you pursue to earn your degrees and certifications will be what's necessary for you to accomplish your goals, while being a student and husband. I'm glad we'll be away, and you can focus and prepare over the weekend. And thank you for holding our business just among the immediate family until Jonathan and Mother return. We really appreciate it. And this last part is real important Hank. As I remember, you and Sam seeking your first apartment, was a big deal to Sam and she hated being excluded from the process. Just remember, that you and Sam's couple plans, as husband and wife, are no more our business as our couple plans as, Tony and Angela, aren't you and Sam's business," Angela firmly stated!
Both Tony and Hank got the drift that Angela was presenting. Tony immediately chimed in, "I wasn't prying. But if it seemed like I was, it's only because you mentioned it and didn't elaborate so I was following up. I agree with Angela, you and Samantha are married and when you choose to share with us anything, it should be because you discussed it and agreed that it's what you want to do. I won't be a prying father/father-n-law, well I'm going to try not to be," said Tony while holding one his hand over his heart and the other in the air. Then he passed Angela her breakfast plate and kissed her lips.
"Thanks Dad. Thanks Angela. Your support for my career and me and Sam's marriage has been so wonderful. You two are amazing. We couldn't have made it without you. Like I said, I'm just glad to be a part of the family. Thanks Angela from saving me from Sam wanting to kill me when she gets back," Hank said.
"Oh, you're welcome, Honey! We're going to always try to be supportive of you no matter what Hank," Angela said as she smiled and grabbed his hand firmly.
"This breakfast is so amazing Tony. Not that yours wasn't Angela. Uhm, do you mind if I take my plate back to the apartment to finish? I suddenly got inspired and I need to journal some things before I forget them. I'll be back before you both leave today. What time should I come back by," Hank inquired?
"I'm not exactly sure yet. I sorta don't have any clothes. Like I said I came straight from the banquet and I didn't seem to leave much of anything here that's decent to wear. Soon as breakfast is over and my unmentionables are dry, we're going to head to the mall. We're trying to get there when it opens, so we can get in an out and hopefully avoid people we know. We're cutting it kinda close for time, but I think we'll at least get there by 10:30 am. But we'll call you when we get back from the mall. We'll be able to better gauge our time then," Tony replied.
"Sounds like a plan Dad. Thanks again for breakfast and our talk. I really am happy that you're back and that you guys are together. Your love is so perfect. I want that for Sam and me," Hank said as he rose from the table. He hugged Angela's shoulders and shook Tony's hand before Tony embraced him.
Angela is blushing and smiling and so is Tony. "Thanks Son. We love you too. We'll call when we get back," Tony answered a bit choked up by Hank's awe of his and Angela's relationship. Hank smiled back before exiting the kitchen door with his breakfast platter.
"Sweetheart you look a bit misty eyed over there," Tony teased as he sat at the table to join Angela with his breakfast. "Oh, I almost forgot, whipped cream my Sweet," asked Tony?
"You know how I love when you put whipped cream on top," Angela said. "That was so sweet what Hank said. I wasn't expecting it. I was caught off guard. I'm glad your reunion with Hank went well. He's really been a jewel around here since you were gone. Mother said the same about him when we were both in Iowa, Angela said.
"Well enough about the kids and Mother, I think we've address as much about them as we can for now. Here's what the travel agent has in store for us! Are you ready for this? Picture it, you and me driving up to Mystic, Connecticut for 48 hours of bliss at The Stonecroft Bed & Breakfast. I'm so excited. We're going to be in a secluded master's suite at The Grange. We'll find out more when we get there, but they'll have it prepared for us to be extra romantic and locked in. I'm getting goose bumps in anticipation for our weekend of seductive seclusion," Angela proclaimed.
"Contain yourself Angela, we're at the kitchen table. But Baby it does sound nice. I can't wait to have you all to myself and I can have my way with you," Tony said.
"Oh TO-NY! Pace yourself! Let me tell you the rest of the plans before you completely distract me and I lose all train of thought. We tentatively need to leave here around 4:00 pm, no later than 5:00 pm. We'll have all of Saturday night, all day and night Sunday, and Monday morning since check out is at noon. We should get back home on Monday at 4:00 pm at the latest, so we'll need to leave Mystic by 2:30 pm/ 3:00 pm. This way we pick Jonathan up on time at 5:00 pm. That's when the bus gets back to the school. He's going to be so happy to see you, Tony! Mother will just have to see you when she gets home that evening," Angela said.
"I am glad I told Hank that if he talks to either Mona or Jonathan, don't spill the beans or even hint that something going on, like I'm home. He's only allowed to talk to Sam, and I told her in Iowa before I left her in the airport not a word to Marci. I didn't know what to expect when I got here. I knew the family needed to have this reunion first, face to face. Plus, I was only 97.5% sure you wanted to get back together, but I wanted to play it safe and not assume. I didn't want to cause a scene amongst the general public via "The Fairfield Grapevine" if I was wrong," confessed Tony.
"Thank you, Baby, for considering me. That's another reason why I fell in love with you. You always make me feel special, by putting me and our family first when it comes to the public. Family always matters with you. I'm glad you love us all so much to always want to protect us," doted Angela as she caressed Tony's biceps.
"Angela, that's what a man should do for his family. He shows them he loves them by supporting, providing, and protecting them all. I'm not perfect, and I know there have been times where I have failed in this area. But at the heart of it all, you, the kids, and Mona, you're my everything! I love every last one of you. Your well-being is always on my mind," Tony declared as he takes Angela's hand and kisses the back of it, then he leans in and gently kisses her neck, then her earlobe, before he whispers in her ear, "But I'm in love with you My Sweet!"
Angela swoons as she melts against Tony's body. 'Oh TO-NNYY", she gushed becoming overcome by Tony's passionate commitment to their family and his acknowledgement of his devotion to her. "I'm so in love with you too My Darling," Angela professed. She snickered a little as she nuzzled Tony's neck and soaked his face with multiple baby kisses.
"What's gotten into you Ange? What's so funny," Tony asked?
"I just got tickled thinking how annoyed Jonathan and Mother get when we gush over one another. Jonathan wanted us to get a room in the house we live in. That's how I know it's best we be alone this weekend. We need to reconnect intimately without family, and even the distraction of this house. Plus, I've been cooped up in here since I got home and I need to get away. It's even better than I get to do so with a hot, macho hunk on my arms too! Our little get-a-way is perfect! Then it may be more natural for us to exist in front of the family without them complaining about how mushy we get," noted Angela.
"Angela, I guess I better break it to you," Tony said so serious. "Darling, I don't care what Jonathan, Samantha, Mona or anyone else has to say about us. I love you. I am in love with you. I'm never not going to let you know it, so that means everyone will know it. I'm never going to hide my love for you again. That was the worst feeling ever I denied myself from years of happiness being prideful. My heart only loves you and it wants every moment possible to be shared with you. I'll never not say I love you Angela," exclaimed Tony! They magnetically came together with such passion in a long deep kiss, which deepened as time went on. Tony reluctantly breaking for air moaned, "Ohhh ANN-GEE-LAA"!
"Good job Tony, you hung in. Now I know I beat my 57 second record with that one," Angela joked. Tony laughed as he got up and dragged Angela out of the kitchen and through the living room.
"Tony what are you doing, where are we going," Angela asked?
"Just to the basement so I can put the wash in the dryer. I just got you back and I don't want you out of my sight," Tony said. Tony paused and looked deep in Angela's eyes and said, "Angela, because nobody is home but us, did you think I was about to take you upstairs to rip your clothes off and make passionate love to you," Tony teasingly inquired?
Shocked and blushing, Angela laughed being caught off guard as she said, "Oh just go in the basement and put your laundry in the dryer Silly Micelli. I'm going to my office to call the travel agent again to make sure everything is in place for the weekend. They work limited hours on Saturdays. Then we've got to get to the mall because as good as you look in my robe, you're not going away with me for the weekend with that as one of your outfits," Angela said as she smacked his butt and ran back to her office. Tony reacted to her slapping his butt as if he wanted more, laughing while headed to the basement, wearing Angela's pink plush terrycloth robe.