Harry stood with Amanda outside his parent's house. They were both nervous
to go in, taking a deep breathe Harry rung the doorbell, 'it's my own
fucking birthday and I'd kill to be anywhere else but here.' Amanda
twitched nervously as they waited anxiously, both desiring the evening to
be over. Breaking them both from their thoughts the door opened to reveal
an older woman, her dark brown hair was pulled back into a bun that framed
her creamy white face that faslely light up as she seen Harry. Her eyes
never even flickered on Amanda who's hand was grasped tightly by Harry's.
"Oh Harry darling,"said the woman reaching up and cupping Harry's face as he leaned down slightly.
"Nice to see you mother,"said Harry politely as he hugged her slightly with his free hand.
"You're looking so handsome darling,"said his mother,"Now come in, come in." She stood back as Harry lead Amanda into the house. Amanda walked in and was in awe, the house was enourmous and beautiful. The floors were white marble invested with pale pink viens, a large curved staircase emerged out of the marble and led up to the second floor giving a tour of paintings and mirrors on the way. A large crystal chandelier hung from the cieling held together with gold framing. As she looked around Harry's mother chatted on still not acknowledging the fact Amanda was there.
"Harry you're here," Amanda looked over and seen another woman who looked just few years older than Harry. Amanda stood almost timidly behind Harry as his the females of his family stood there.
"Gwen,"said Harry smiling.
"Harry who is this hiding behind you?"asked Gwen, Harry's sister leaning her head over to see Amanda. Harry moved to the side and urged Amanda next to him. Amanda smiled slightly at them as they inspected her over.
"Mom, Gwen, this is Amanda Guber,"said Harry,"Amanda, my sister Gwen and my mother Colleen." Amanda shook Gwen's hand then Colleen's.
"Nice to meet you,"said Amanda, she got an icy vibe from the two of them as Gwen silently collected their jackets from them. Harry lead her steps behind his mother into the sitting room. Amanda looked around wide eyed at the elegance and richness of the place. Family portriats, paitings and art pieces decoarated the egg shell colored walls. They turned and stepped into a larger room, a large black grand piano stood in the right color in front of a corner of windows that looked out onto the pool and the backyard. A harp of gold stood next to it and art pieces decorated the room with a rose glow to it. Situated in front of the fireplace was a couch and a loveseat, two victorian chairs sat facing each other on either side of the fire place. The mantel above the fireplace was framed pictures of the family. On the couches sat an older man who Amanda assumed was Harry's father, next to him was a younger man sitting warmly with a bleached blond woman. Just as Harry went to speak a woman who looked about the same age as Harry's mother came walking in with a martini glass in hand from a door on the other side of the room.
"Harry, you've finally made it,"boomed the woman loudly walking over to the two of them,"And who is this little piece you've got? She must be a gift from Kyle, she's got Kyle written all over her."
"Leanne, good to see you,"said Harry leaning over and kissing the woman's cheek.
"Now come on Harry, you're parents did waste all that money teaching you to be a gentleman, introduce the young lady,"demanded Leanne.
"Leanne, this is Amanda Guber, Amanda this is my aunt and Kyle's mother, Leanne Brooks."introduced Harry.
"Well it's about time Harry brought home a girl for inspection, and it seems he picked the prime of the litter,"exclaimed Leanne.
"She's not a puppy Leanne,"said Gwen sarcastically as she made her way to the couch.
"I know,"said Leanne to the younger woman,"It's a figure of speech, now make yourself useful and go get your brother and his girlfriend a drink."
"We have maids,"hissed Gwen.
"Yeah and we also have kids, like you. What do you think your mother just had you for the good of her health?"joked Leanne,"Now c'mon Harry don't be a stranger here, sit down." Harry lead Amanda over to the love seat and sat down next to her. Amanda almost sat in Harry's lap she was so close to him, she was undoubtedly nervous and his family wasn't making it any easier. Moments later one of the kitchen staff came out with with a silver tray with crystal wine glasses of wine at Gwen's request. Amanda and Harry were served, and everyone else had their glasses replaced.
"Harry introduce the rest of the family,"said Colleen as she took her place next to Harry's father. Amanda watched as Harry had a bitter look come over his face when his mother spoke.
"Amanda, this is my father, Forestor Senate, my brother, Matthew and his wife, Anna,"said Harry,"This is Amanda Guber." Amanda smiled politely and nodded to them only to be met by inspecting stares.
"So Amanda how old are you?"asked Colleen.
"Colleen don't integirgate the poor girl,"scolded Leanne.
"I'm twenty one,"lied Amanda in a soft voice. Harry bit her lip, it was obvious Amanda was nervous at the response she was getting, 'this was a mistake, for the both of us.'
"She she's perfectly fine for Harry, you should be happy at least one your children is bringing home a looker,"said Leanne jokingly.
"Duane is a handsome man,"said Gwen defensively.
"If you're blind,"mumbled Leanne.
"Well how did you two meet?"asked Forestor trying to change the subject.
"Through work,"said Harry.
"Do you work at the school too?"asked Matthew.
"She's a student teacher,"lied Harry straight faced to his family.
"I do not know why you work at that horrible school Harry, if you want to teach that badly there are various fine academies around Boston,"said Colleen,"Ones without students that don't require metal detectors."
"Amanda, you'll have to excuse our family, one of the branches from the family tree seems to have been permantly stuck some of their asses,"said Leanne. Harry and Amanda bit their lips from laughing as the rest of the family quietly took offense.
"Leanne why don't you have another drink?"asked Gwen bitterly.
"Oh hush up will you? You're the prudess of them all,"replied Leanne.
"Excuse me will you,"said Forestor rising up. Amanda pulled her attention away from the two women and watched as Harry's father followed one of the maids from the room. She looked over at Harry who seen what she had as well, he shook his head in disgust and sat back inhaling deeply. She gave his forearm a comforting squeeze as she tried not to pay attention to the chaos happening between Colleen, Gwen and Leanne.
"I'm going to give Amanda a tour of the house,"said Harry as he leaned over to his brother. Matthew nodded as Harry grabbed Amanda's hand and practically yanked her off the couch and out of the room. Once they were in an empty hallway Harry stopped and ran his hands over his face.
"It's not even ten minutes and they're already tearing each other apart,"said Harry stressfully. Comfortingly Amanda pulled him into a hug, Harry sunk into her hug wishing he had never agreed to come and just ignored his mother's phone calls, 'I need to get caller ID' thought Harry. Slowly and reluctantly Harry pulled back from her.
"Right after dinner we're leaving,"said Harry,"If I thought we could sneak out with out my mother going balistic, we'd do it."
"Well atleast they're not going nuts on you,"said Amanda as they started aimlessly walking down the hall.
"Just wait,"said Harry sarcastically.
"Oh sure, anyways do you have a bathroom around here?"asked Amanda.
"Yeah, I'll take you to the upstairs one, it has no windows you can climb out of,"said Harry,"You're not escaping without me."
"Ha, ha very funny,"said Amanda. They turned a corner and Harry let her up a set of stairs to the second floor. The upstairs was just as grand as the main floor, the floors were the same marble, the walls were a peach color, decorated with large oval mirrors framed in antique gold and portraits of family members framed in the same gold.
"So where's your portrait?"asked Amanda.
"Don't have one,"said Harry,"I refused to sit still when I was younger for it."
"Ah did lil Harry wanna play in the mud more?"asked Amanda in a childish voice.
"Pretty much,"said Harry shrugging,"That one's the bathroom." Amanda nodded as she left his sideand headed towards the door.
"I'll be down the hall in that room,"said Harry pointing to the door at the end of the hall,"I know where my dad hides the good brandy, and I think I'm gonna need a shot." Amanda smiled and nodded at him. She opened the door Harry pointed at and walked into the bathroom, it was decorated in dark forest green with gold finishing. The room was darkish from the color but was lit up by tiffany lamps. Amanda looked at herself in the mirror inspecting her face for any make up smudges, a muffled noise from behind her caught her attention. Slowly Amanda turned on her heel and looked at the shower behind her that was covered by a thick green shower curtain. Another squeak was heard, creasing her brow and going against her judgement to just leave Amanda stepped forward silently. She reached out slowly as she held her breath and, she grasped the stiff curtain in her hand and pulled it back quickly.
"Oh my god,"cried Amanda in surprised. Forestor and a younger woman were pressed against the wall almost naked. Both looked at her like deers caught in a headlight, Amand stumbled back as she stuttered and apology. She quickly made her way to the bathroom door and slammed it behind her as she got out. Amanda almost ran down the hall to the room Harry was in, once she grabbed the knob of the door she pulled it open and quickly stepped in. Harry looked up from the large rosewood desk in front of the room's large floor length windows, he had a small drink glass with a few fingers of a amber liquid.
"Okay, you win, your family is fuck up,"said Amanda walking over to him.
"Why what happened?"asked Harry creasing his eyebrows. Amanda was silent, she grabbed his glass from him and took a sip and handed it back to him as the warm fluid rolled down her throat.
"Oh nothing, just walked into on your father having sex,"said Amanda.
"What?"asked Harry,"Oh god, a young red head?"
"I think so,"said Amanda,"I wasn't really inspecting."
"That's Mona, the maid,"said Harry he sighed. Amanda started laughing as she thought of what had just happened. Shaking her head she leaned against the desk.
"Well this is certainly one interesting dinner,"said Amanda. Harry rolled his eyes as he sat down in the large tan leather desk chair, he reached out with his free hand and pulled Amanda down onto his lap. He rested his hands and glass on her stomach as she leaned against him. Amanda leaned her head back against the back of the chair next to Harry's, she turned and kissed his cheek.
"Sure you still want to go to prom?"asked Harry.
"I told you, I'd rather be here with you,"said Amanda intertwining her fingers with his.
"Maybe we could hide here until everyone is too drunk to notice then we could just say out goodbyes and leave,"suggested Harry.
"Well you should be lucky your mother even still speaks to you, mine thinks I'm the anti-christ in heels and a skirt,"said Amanda.
"Wanna trade?"asked Harry.
"You wish, now look you only have to get through one night then I'll take you home and make you feel better,"reasoned Amanda. Harry just rested his head on her's and drank the rest of his brandy.
"Can I just get drunk and pass out somewhere?"asked Harry,"It is my birthday."
"Once we get home,"said Amanda.
"No,"whinned Harry in a soft voice in her ear.
"Behave, or I'll take you home for dinner with my dad,"said Amanda.
"God, in that case passing out wouldn't be good enough, coma would be more like it,"said Harry,"No offense."
"None taken, and definately on that I agree, but it's your birthday don't drown yourself in misery. Especially when you have me, I make all misery go away,"said Amanda.
"Of course you do,"said Harry as he twisted in the chair pushing from one foot to the other. Harry pushed them and the chair around so they were looking out over the back yard and the large pool and jacuzzi.
"Wow, did you grow up here?"asked Amanda.
"Yup,"said Harry holding her tighter to him.
"Wow, I woulda killed to live here, still would,"said Amanda,"Look at that pool, I never would've left it. You musta loved it."
"Didn't spend much time in the pool,"said Harry,"I was in the tree house most of the time." Harry pointed to a tree just behind the pool, the remains of a weather beaten tree house. Amanda didn't understand it, of course his family did seem a few bricks short but she guessed it was the fact she never grew up in this wealth that she could understand. Her mother had been well off and she grew up in a fairly good area but it was nothing compared to his. Leaning back she inhaled deeply and turned her head slightly to Harry's as she gripped his hand.
"If ya wanna go, we can,"said Amanda softly.
"Nah, I guess I can tough it out a few more hours, who knows what you'll walk in on again,"said Harry.
"Yeah know I don't know what's worse, walking in on your own parents or your boyfriend's parents, never mind the fact that one of the people wasn't his parent,"said Amanda sarcastically.
"Well better you than me,"said Harry. Amanda turned on his lap and faced him.
"Shut up,"said Amanda,"That was almost tramatic." Harry leaned over and kissed her, Amanda wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled herself closer to him.
Before the kiss could get any deeper, a knock at the door broke them. Both of them looked over to see Mona stick her head in slightly.
"Mrs. Senate sent me to collect you for dinner,"said Mona quietly before she left.
"Now time for the main event,"said Harry as Amanda stood up. Amanda grabbed his hand and pulled him up to stand.
"It won't be that bad,"said Amanda as the two left the room.
"Sure it won't,"said Harry sarcastically. The two made their way down the main staircase and into the dinning room that was no less in standards to the rest of the house. A large table ran the length of the room and around it were seated the family already. Quietly Harry and Amanda took seats next to Leanne and waited as the waiters served dinner.
"Forestor, you have something on your collar,"said Colleen quietly but just loud enough for everyone to hear. It was obviously lipstick from Mona, it was no secret of their affair. Harry muffled a snicker as he covered his mouth, he was remembering Amanda had walked in on them.
"Harry?"asked Gwen noticing her brother.
"Nothing,"said Harry coughing to cover up.
"It must of been something, you were snickering,"said Gwen accusingly.
"Gwen, drop it,"said Harry rolling his eyes.
"Well honestly you'd think someone who's family throws him a party would be more appericative,"said Gwen as their food was silently served.
"Sorry I'll try to kiss your ass just a bit harder next time,"said Harry sarcastically.
"Look can we eat in peace,"said Leanne loudly.
"There's a laugh, Leanne wanting peace,"scoffed Gwen.
"Now look here young lady, straight up or I'll straighten you up,"said Leanne. Gwen went to speak back but Forestor dropped a heavy hand on the table silencing them all. They were all served another glass of wine that Amanda quickly downed trying to ease her nerves and maybe some how find this family amusing. There was no usual conversation that was usually expected at a family dinner, no how was your day? no so how is life going? Just silence, nothing more from any of them.
Through out dinner Amanda downed two more glasses of wine and by the time they moved to the sitting room for coffee she was more than ready to climb out a window to escape. Harry was about in the same state, it was either that or he was going to tear his own arm so he had something to beat them with.
"So Amanda how long have you and Harry been together?"asked Colleen.
"Since February,"said Amanda nodding as the maid handed her another glass of wine, 'this maid a god,' thought Amanda silently.
"And how long have you been teaching?"asked Gwen.
"I've been at Winslow since September,"said Amanda.
"What pocesses you teach at such a school? I can't imagine what makes Harry want to teach those public school urchints,"said Gwen.
"Well it enlightens me to want to help this generation kill the ignorance of society,"said Amanda smiling. Gwen looked put out a bit, as Harry smiled brightly at her.
"So Harry whatever happened to that blond, Ronnie? You seemed to be real serious with her? I surely would've thought you two would've ended up down the isle,"said Gwen.
"Hardly,"said Harry,"We were never that serious."
"Yeah Gwen, so maybe we could put those claws away,"said Leanne as she got up to refresh her Gin and Tonic.
"Of course Leanne, we'd never want anyone to outshine you,"said Gwen.
"Oh look little girl I've had just about enough of you,"said Leanne obviously tipsy from the alcohol. It wasn't much of a surpise, between her and Colleen they had almost finished the bottle of Gin on the display table.
"What? I'm just asking about Ronnie, I liked her when I met her. She seemed more of Harry's type,"said Gwen.
"I have to agree there,"said Matthew speaking up.
"Like any of you would know my type,"muttered Harry. Amanda just hid behind her quickly draining wine glass, she kept mentally telling herself this was Harry's family and not the exact people she wanted to go postal on.
"Amanda dear don't worry about them, Gwen's just upset over the fact you couldn't win an ugly contest if you tried,"said Leanne.
"Is there nothing better we can talk about?"asked Harry.
"No, this is a perfectly fine subject,"insisted Gwen.
"It's my fucking birthday for for fucksake you think you could all just act civil for just one goddamn minute,"said Harry loudly.
"Watch your language in this house,"said Colleen,"And don't speak to your sister like that."
"Have another drink will ya mom?"asked Harry sarcastically.
"Sure, no problem I'll show you to the bathroom,"said Anna grabbing Amanda arm and pulling her off the couch. The rest of them barely noticed as a full fledge family fight, the two girls left the room and walked down the hall.
"Sorry about that,"said Anna letting go of Amanda,"But I seen a famous Senate fight happening and you definately don't want to witness one of those."
"Well they are colorful,"said Amanda nodding.
"That's not even the begining of it,"said Anna rolling her eyes,"I wish Matt was more like Harry and hated coming near this family."
"Well Harry wasn't too thrill on coming for his birthday,"said Amanda.
"Don't blame him,"said Anna.
"Amanda, c'mon we're leaving,"said Harry walking into the hallway followed by three screaming women and Matthew. Harry took her hand and lead her towards the door where the bulter was waiting with their jackets and Amanda's purse. Harry grabbed them and opened the door for Amanda.
"Yeah, real good Harry just leave, run away,"taunted Gwen.
"Go to hell,"said Harry before he left behind Amanda. They were both silent as they made their way to the car. Once in the car Harry sighed and ran his hands over his face.
"I'm sorry,"sighed Harry.
"It's okay,"said Amanda softly,"I completely understand."
"All right we're getting far, far, far away from here,"said Harry starting the car. Amanda quietly started at the house as Harry pulled out of the driveway. Biting her lip she felt bad for Harry, she knew what it felt like to be alienated by your family.
"Oh Harry darling,"said the woman reaching up and cupping Harry's face as he leaned down slightly.
"Nice to see you mother,"said Harry politely as he hugged her slightly with his free hand.
"You're looking so handsome darling,"said his mother,"Now come in, come in." She stood back as Harry lead Amanda into the house. Amanda walked in and was in awe, the house was enourmous and beautiful. The floors were white marble invested with pale pink viens, a large curved staircase emerged out of the marble and led up to the second floor giving a tour of paintings and mirrors on the way. A large crystal chandelier hung from the cieling held together with gold framing. As she looked around Harry's mother chatted on still not acknowledging the fact Amanda was there.
"Harry you're here," Amanda looked over and seen another woman who looked just few years older than Harry. Amanda stood almost timidly behind Harry as his the females of his family stood there.
"Gwen,"said Harry smiling.
"Harry who is this hiding behind you?"asked Gwen, Harry's sister leaning her head over to see Amanda. Harry moved to the side and urged Amanda next to him. Amanda smiled slightly at them as they inspected her over.
"Mom, Gwen, this is Amanda Guber,"said Harry,"Amanda, my sister Gwen and my mother Colleen." Amanda shook Gwen's hand then Colleen's.
"Nice to meet you,"said Amanda, she got an icy vibe from the two of them as Gwen silently collected their jackets from them. Harry lead her steps behind his mother into the sitting room. Amanda looked around wide eyed at the elegance and richness of the place. Family portriats, paitings and art pieces decoarated the egg shell colored walls. They turned and stepped into a larger room, a large black grand piano stood in the right color in front of a corner of windows that looked out onto the pool and the backyard. A harp of gold stood next to it and art pieces decorated the room with a rose glow to it. Situated in front of the fireplace was a couch and a loveseat, two victorian chairs sat facing each other on either side of the fire place. The mantel above the fireplace was framed pictures of the family. On the couches sat an older man who Amanda assumed was Harry's father, next to him was a younger man sitting warmly with a bleached blond woman. Just as Harry went to speak a woman who looked about the same age as Harry's mother came walking in with a martini glass in hand from a door on the other side of the room.
"Harry, you've finally made it,"boomed the woman loudly walking over to the two of them,"And who is this little piece you've got? She must be a gift from Kyle, she's got Kyle written all over her."
"Leanne, good to see you,"said Harry leaning over and kissing the woman's cheek.
"Now come on Harry, you're parents did waste all that money teaching you to be a gentleman, introduce the young lady,"demanded Leanne.
"Leanne, this is Amanda Guber, Amanda this is my aunt and Kyle's mother, Leanne Brooks."introduced Harry.
"Well it's about time Harry brought home a girl for inspection, and it seems he picked the prime of the litter,"exclaimed Leanne.
"She's not a puppy Leanne,"said Gwen sarcastically as she made her way to the couch.
"I know,"said Leanne to the younger woman,"It's a figure of speech, now make yourself useful and go get your brother and his girlfriend a drink."
"We have maids,"hissed Gwen.
"Yeah and we also have kids, like you. What do you think your mother just had you for the good of her health?"joked Leanne,"Now c'mon Harry don't be a stranger here, sit down." Harry lead Amanda over to the love seat and sat down next to her. Amanda almost sat in Harry's lap she was so close to him, she was undoubtedly nervous and his family wasn't making it any easier. Moments later one of the kitchen staff came out with with a silver tray with crystal wine glasses of wine at Gwen's request. Amanda and Harry were served, and everyone else had their glasses replaced.
"Harry introduce the rest of the family,"said Colleen as she took her place next to Harry's father. Amanda watched as Harry had a bitter look come over his face when his mother spoke.
"Amanda, this is my father, Forestor Senate, my brother, Matthew and his wife, Anna,"said Harry,"This is Amanda Guber." Amanda smiled politely and nodded to them only to be met by inspecting stares.
"So Amanda how old are you?"asked Colleen.
"Colleen don't integirgate the poor girl,"scolded Leanne.
"I'm twenty one,"lied Amanda in a soft voice. Harry bit her lip, it was obvious Amanda was nervous at the response she was getting, 'this was a mistake, for the both of us.'
"She she's perfectly fine for Harry, you should be happy at least one your children is bringing home a looker,"said Leanne jokingly.
"Duane is a handsome man,"said Gwen defensively.
"If you're blind,"mumbled Leanne.
"Well how did you two meet?"asked Forestor trying to change the subject.
"Through work,"said Harry.
"Do you work at the school too?"asked Matthew.
"She's a student teacher,"lied Harry straight faced to his family.
"I do not know why you work at that horrible school Harry, if you want to teach that badly there are various fine academies around Boston,"said Colleen,"Ones without students that don't require metal detectors."
"Amanda, you'll have to excuse our family, one of the branches from the family tree seems to have been permantly stuck some of their asses,"said Leanne. Harry and Amanda bit their lips from laughing as the rest of the family quietly took offense.
"Leanne why don't you have another drink?"asked Gwen bitterly.
"Oh hush up will you? You're the prudess of them all,"replied Leanne.
"Excuse me will you,"said Forestor rising up. Amanda pulled her attention away from the two women and watched as Harry's father followed one of the maids from the room. She looked over at Harry who seen what she had as well, he shook his head in disgust and sat back inhaling deeply. She gave his forearm a comforting squeeze as she tried not to pay attention to the chaos happening between Colleen, Gwen and Leanne.
"I'm going to give Amanda a tour of the house,"said Harry as he leaned over to his brother. Matthew nodded as Harry grabbed Amanda's hand and practically yanked her off the couch and out of the room. Once they were in an empty hallway Harry stopped and ran his hands over his face.
"It's not even ten minutes and they're already tearing each other apart,"said Harry stressfully. Comfortingly Amanda pulled him into a hug, Harry sunk into her hug wishing he had never agreed to come and just ignored his mother's phone calls, 'I need to get caller ID' thought Harry. Slowly and reluctantly Harry pulled back from her.
"Right after dinner we're leaving,"said Harry,"If I thought we could sneak out with out my mother going balistic, we'd do it."
"Well atleast they're not going nuts on you,"said Amanda as they started aimlessly walking down the hall.
"Just wait,"said Harry sarcastically.
"Oh sure, anyways do you have a bathroom around here?"asked Amanda.
"Yeah, I'll take you to the upstairs one, it has no windows you can climb out of,"said Harry,"You're not escaping without me."
"Ha, ha very funny,"said Amanda. They turned a corner and Harry let her up a set of stairs to the second floor. The upstairs was just as grand as the main floor, the floors were the same marble, the walls were a peach color, decorated with large oval mirrors framed in antique gold and portraits of family members framed in the same gold.
"So where's your portrait?"asked Amanda.
"Don't have one,"said Harry,"I refused to sit still when I was younger for it."
"Ah did lil Harry wanna play in the mud more?"asked Amanda in a childish voice.
"Pretty much,"said Harry shrugging,"That one's the bathroom." Amanda nodded as she left his sideand headed towards the door.
"I'll be down the hall in that room,"said Harry pointing to the door at the end of the hall,"I know where my dad hides the good brandy, and I think I'm gonna need a shot." Amanda smiled and nodded at him. She opened the door Harry pointed at and walked into the bathroom, it was decorated in dark forest green with gold finishing. The room was darkish from the color but was lit up by tiffany lamps. Amanda looked at herself in the mirror inspecting her face for any make up smudges, a muffled noise from behind her caught her attention. Slowly Amanda turned on her heel and looked at the shower behind her that was covered by a thick green shower curtain. Another squeak was heard, creasing her brow and going against her judgement to just leave Amanda stepped forward silently. She reached out slowly as she held her breath and, she grasped the stiff curtain in her hand and pulled it back quickly.
"Oh my god,"cried Amanda in surprised. Forestor and a younger woman were pressed against the wall almost naked. Both looked at her like deers caught in a headlight, Amand stumbled back as she stuttered and apology. She quickly made her way to the bathroom door and slammed it behind her as she got out. Amanda almost ran down the hall to the room Harry was in, once she grabbed the knob of the door she pulled it open and quickly stepped in. Harry looked up from the large rosewood desk in front of the room's large floor length windows, he had a small drink glass with a few fingers of a amber liquid.
"Okay, you win, your family is fuck up,"said Amanda walking over to him.
"Why what happened?"asked Harry creasing his eyebrows. Amanda was silent, she grabbed his glass from him and took a sip and handed it back to him as the warm fluid rolled down her throat.
"Oh nothing, just walked into on your father having sex,"said Amanda.
"What?"asked Harry,"Oh god, a young red head?"
"I think so,"said Amanda,"I wasn't really inspecting."
"That's Mona, the maid,"said Harry he sighed. Amanda started laughing as she thought of what had just happened. Shaking her head she leaned against the desk.
"Well this is certainly one interesting dinner,"said Amanda. Harry rolled his eyes as he sat down in the large tan leather desk chair, he reached out with his free hand and pulled Amanda down onto his lap. He rested his hands and glass on her stomach as she leaned against him. Amanda leaned her head back against the back of the chair next to Harry's, she turned and kissed his cheek.
"Sure you still want to go to prom?"asked Harry.
"I told you, I'd rather be here with you,"said Amanda intertwining her fingers with his.
"Maybe we could hide here until everyone is too drunk to notice then we could just say out goodbyes and leave,"suggested Harry.
"Well you should be lucky your mother even still speaks to you, mine thinks I'm the anti-christ in heels and a skirt,"said Amanda.
"Wanna trade?"asked Harry.
"You wish, now look you only have to get through one night then I'll take you home and make you feel better,"reasoned Amanda. Harry just rested his head on her's and drank the rest of his brandy.
"Can I just get drunk and pass out somewhere?"asked Harry,"It is my birthday."
"Once we get home,"said Amanda.
"No,"whinned Harry in a soft voice in her ear.
"Behave, or I'll take you home for dinner with my dad,"said Amanda.
"God, in that case passing out wouldn't be good enough, coma would be more like it,"said Harry,"No offense."
"None taken, and definately on that I agree, but it's your birthday don't drown yourself in misery. Especially when you have me, I make all misery go away,"said Amanda.
"Of course you do,"said Harry as he twisted in the chair pushing from one foot to the other. Harry pushed them and the chair around so they were looking out over the back yard and the large pool and jacuzzi.
"Wow, did you grow up here?"asked Amanda.
"Yup,"said Harry holding her tighter to him.
"Wow, I woulda killed to live here, still would,"said Amanda,"Look at that pool, I never would've left it. You musta loved it."
"Didn't spend much time in the pool,"said Harry,"I was in the tree house most of the time." Harry pointed to a tree just behind the pool, the remains of a weather beaten tree house. Amanda didn't understand it, of course his family did seem a few bricks short but she guessed it was the fact she never grew up in this wealth that she could understand. Her mother had been well off and she grew up in a fairly good area but it was nothing compared to his. Leaning back she inhaled deeply and turned her head slightly to Harry's as she gripped his hand.
"If ya wanna go, we can,"said Amanda softly.
"Nah, I guess I can tough it out a few more hours, who knows what you'll walk in on again,"said Harry.
"Yeah know I don't know what's worse, walking in on your own parents or your boyfriend's parents, never mind the fact that one of the people wasn't his parent,"said Amanda sarcastically.
"Well better you than me,"said Harry. Amanda turned on his lap and faced him.
"Shut up,"said Amanda,"That was almost tramatic." Harry leaned over and kissed her, Amanda wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled herself closer to him.
Before the kiss could get any deeper, a knock at the door broke them. Both of them looked over to see Mona stick her head in slightly.
"Mrs. Senate sent me to collect you for dinner,"said Mona quietly before she left.
"Now time for the main event,"said Harry as Amanda stood up. Amanda grabbed his hand and pulled him up to stand.
"It won't be that bad,"said Amanda as the two left the room.
"Sure it won't,"said Harry sarcastically. The two made their way down the main staircase and into the dinning room that was no less in standards to the rest of the house. A large table ran the length of the room and around it were seated the family already. Quietly Harry and Amanda took seats next to Leanne and waited as the waiters served dinner.
"Forestor, you have something on your collar,"said Colleen quietly but just loud enough for everyone to hear. It was obviously lipstick from Mona, it was no secret of their affair. Harry muffled a snicker as he covered his mouth, he was remembering Amanda had walked in on them.
"Harry?"asked Gwen noticing her brother.
"Nothing,"said Harry coughing to cover up.
"It must of been something, you were snickering,"said Gwen accusingly.
"Gwen, drop it,"said Harry rolling his eyes.
"Well honestly you'd think someone who's family throws him a party would be more appericative,"said Gwen as their food was silently served.
"Sorry I'll try to kiss your ass just a bit harder next time,"said Harry sarcastically.
"Look can we eat in peace,"said Leanne loudly.
"There's a laugh, Leanne wanting peace,"scoffed Gwen.
"Now look here young lady, straight up or I'll straighten you up,"said Leanne. Gwen went to speak back but Forestor dropped a heavy hand on the table silencing them all. They were all served another glass of wine that Amanda quickly downed trying to ease her nerves and maybe some how find this family amusing. There was no usual conversation that was usually expected at a family dinner, no how was your day? no so how is life going? Just silence, nothing more from any of them.
Through out dinner Amanda downed two more glasses of wine and by the time they moved to the sitting room for coffee she was more than ready to climb out a window to escape. Harry was about in the same state, it was either that or he was going to tear his own arm so he had something to beat them with.
"So Amanda how long have you and Harry been together?"asked Colleen.
"Since February,"said Amanda nodding as the maid handed her another glass of wine, 'this maid a god,' thought Amanda silently.
"And how long have you been teaching?"asked Gwen.
"I've been at Winslow since September,"said Amanda.
"What pocesses you teach at such a school? I can't imagine what makes Harry want to teach those public school urchints,"said Gwen.
"Well it enlightens me to want to help this generation kill the ignorance of society,"said Amanda smiling. Gwen looked put out a bit, as Harry smiled brightly at her.
"So Harry whatever happened to that blond, Ronnie? You seemed to be real serious with her? I surely would've thought you two would've ended up down the isle,"said Gwen.
"Hardly,"said Harry,"We were never that serious."
"Yeah Gwen, so maybe we could put those claws away,"said Leanne as she got up to refresh her Gin and Tonic.
"Of course Leanne, we'd never want anyone to outshine you,"said Gwen.
"Oh look little girl I've had just about enough of you,"said Leanne obviously tipsy from the alcohol. It wasn't much of a surpise, between her and Colleen they had almost finished the bottle of Gin on the display table.
"What? I'm just asking about Ronnie, I liked her when I met her. She seemed more of Harry's type,"said Gwen.
"I have to agree there,"said Matthew speaking up.
"Like any of you would know my type,"muttered Harry. Amanda just hid behind her quickly draining wine glass, she kept mentally telling herself this was Harry's family and not the exact people she wanted to go postal on.
"Amanda dear don't worry about them, Gwen's just upset over the fact you couldn't win an ugly contest if you tried,"said Leanne.
"Is there nothing better we can talk about?"asked Harry.
"No, this is a perfectly fine subject,"insisted Gwen.
"It's my fucking birthday for for fucksake you think you could all just act civil for just one goddamn minute,"said Harry loudly.
"Watch your language in this house,"said Colleen,"And don't speak to your sister like that."
"Have another drink will ya mom?"asked Harry sarcastically.
"Sure, no problem I'll show you to the bathroom,"said Anna grabbing Amanda arm and pulling her off the couch. The rest of them barely noticed as a full fledge family fight, the two girls left the room and walked down the hall.
"Sorry about that,"said Anna letting go of Amanda,"But I seen a famous Senate fight happening and you definately don't want to witness one of those."
"Well they are colorful,"said Amanda nodding.
"That's not even the begining of it,"said Anna rolling her eyes,"I wish Matt was more like Harry and hated coming near this family."
"Well Harry wasn't too thrill on coming for his birthday,"said Amanda.
"Don't blame him,"said Anna.
"Amanda, c'mon we're leaving,"said Harry walking into the hallway followed by three screaming women and Matthew. Harry took her hand and lead her towards the door where the bulter was waiting with their jackets and Amanda's purse. Harry grabbed them and opened the door for Amanda.
"Yeah, real good Harry just leave, run away,"taunted Gwen.
"Go to hell,"said Harry before he left behind Amanda. They were both silent as they made their way to the car. Once in the car Harry sighed and ran his hands over his face.
"I'm sorry,"sighed Harry.
"It's okay,"said Amanda softly,"I completely understand."
"All right we're getting far, far, far away from here,"said Harry starting the car. Amanda quietly started at the house as Harry pulled out of the driveway. Biting her lip she felt bad for Harry, she knew what it felt like to be alienated by your family.