Sixteen, he was sixteen. John Dory stood and looked in the mirror, a few days after Spruce had found him doodling the joint tombstone for him and Lily. They had been hatched five days apart, and when they were eggs their mothers often took the chance to carry the other egg around in the nest. It was as if JD had a twin that took a few extra days to hatch, but now he had been experiencing odd thoughts that you would not have for a twin.
John Dory had also been the only egg his mother had carried, because she and Lily's mother died the year after Spruce was born. She was as much a part of the family as he was and that's why he loved her. All of the brothers loved their unofficial sister. Yes that's why he's protective of her, so maybe when Spruce suggested asking her out he was hinting that the two oldest siblings could use a break.
Looking at himself, seeing the exhaustion and eyebags he knew he needed a night off from the stress of the family. And Lily had been taking as much work as he had. While he was worried about the managing and band side she had been doing the education and home care side, managing to keep him grounded on top of it. So yea, she could use a night off as well.
Walking into the kitchen JD saw his grandma playing one of her games of rummy, practicing a new way of cheating to use on her friends the next game night. Taking a deep breath, "Grandma?"
Turning to him, "Yes Johnny?"
"Do you think Lily and I should take a night off?" seeing his Grandma's surprise, "Spruce suggested I ask her out." His grandma's head lowered into her hands as he continued, "He had to be telling me that the two of us could use a night off."
His grandmother took a deep breath before lifting her head again, "That's a great idea dear." Swallowing, "When do you think would be a good time for a night off?" Seeing him struggle with his mental schedule, "You two could celebrate her half birthday."
John could feel his face clearing, he could do that. "Thanks Grandma," he grinned and left the kitchen to talk to Lily about the new plans. And if his Grandma complained to her friends about how oblivious her oldest grandson was he did not hear her.