Brunch rp February 26th - Tallulah, Doc, Connie

Constance Reader came dancing and humming down the stairs humming to herself. She sees Tallulah from the night before and gives her a big smile. "Morning! Oh my god your beds ROCK! And to think I was going to stay in that nightmare of a hotel?" she breezes into a chair. "Coffee pretty please with cream and sugar on top!" her energy is almost infectious.

Doctor Song "Hello Tallulah Hello ms. Is the seat taken?"

Tallulah Beal heads for the coffee pot with a grin "Oh the hotel's not so bad, but thank you. I'm glad you slept well." She picks up the coffee pot and then sees Rose "Good morning Rose." She thinks for a moment on the cheerful patron's name from her registration "This is Constance. Do you go by Constance?" She pours and puts a coffee in front of her.


Constance Reader beams at the woman and sounds thrilled.  "It's not until you take it!"  she proclaims.  Then she looks at Tallulah.  "Constance or Connie.  I'm pretty easy with it. Just no Mrs Reader.  I'm not THAT uptight."  she laughs.  "Well the hotel staff just seemed ..  I don't know ... confused ..some of them.  I stayed in their branch in Alexandra ... when I visit my sister."  she looks at the coffee as if it is nectar and begins to add cream and sugar.  "But this weekend she is hosting her boyfriend and thank god.  SHE needs to socialize!"  she rolls her eyes and sips.  "And Rose!  I love Roses .... so we'll get along great!"

Doctor Song "Thank you Connie  Coffee Tallulah  please and my usual  Bowl of bliss."

Tallulah Beal walks to get another cup and pours for Rose, smiling at both women "The Mariner's just got bought so it may be a bit hectic while they restructure. There's a beauty to running a small business. Of course Anna and I have to do everything ourselves too...that's the other side of it. Granola for you Rose...Connie, do you need a few minutes to decide on food? We have the granola bowl and then the typical fry up style breakfast, regular or vegetarian...vegan options."

Constance Reader 's eyes widen.  "Bowl of Bliss? Oh that sounds right up my alley!  Whatever it is, I'll have the same." she beams."Oh no vegan for me.  You got the WRONG twin."  she huffs.  "But that makes sense.  I was in a good mood and planned to STAY in a good mood so ..... here I am.  "I wasn't invited for Morgan's birthday bash.  'Family only', I was told like I am the eighth cousin three times removed instead of the twin sister."  she rolls her eyes and sips.

Doctor Song "The Granola here is the best I had outside of Norway" as she sips, " "how could they say you are not family if your a twin ,? sorry if it's none of my business, but  even 9th cousins are family were I come from."

Tallulah Beal furrows her brow and hugs the coffee pot to her "Morgan's birthday? On Alexandra?" She connects the dots and twins "Your sister is Sunflower Meadow then?" She laughs "Small world, very small. "My daughter is at the birthday, incidentally, Morgan's daughter. I'll go get that granola and be right back for more conversation." She looks amused and sets the coffee pot down as she heads for the kitchen.

Constance Reader rolls her eyes.  "My sister has this on-again-off-again boyfriend.  Yup...  Morgan."  she shrugs.  "And it's HIS birthday, so ....  I suppose I'm not HIS family.  But it's alright.  She lives in the North Woods of Alexandra on this open space with goats and no toilets.  I did my hippy bit and got over it.  So did our other sister.  Yup.  Sunflower Meadow is my sister. " she watches Tallulah walk off.  "I'll explain my relation to the WHOLE Wright clan when you come back."  she huffs.

Doctor Song "Sorry I didn't mean to spoil your good mood , she says humbly, " It's just there are some differences in culture i am not very versed on here,  as in why would someone change Morgan into the name sunflower ? Both are nice but Morgan sounds more professional."

Constance Reader blinks over her coffee.  "You ruined my good mood?"  she looks genuinely confused.  "Oh honey I don't you're even CLOSE to that good."  she teases.  "OK ... Morgan didn't change his name to Sunflower.  My sister did.  Now she's Sunflower." she sighs. "I say this is what happens to girls raised in a Conservative Jewish household with no proper leash to hold us in."  she laughs.

Doctor Song " ok That makes some sense then, I've seen the same kinda thing with Teens during russ year they cut loose, some never return to normal behaviour as its called."

Tallulah Beal returns with two granola bowls, still chuckling at the interconnections of Connie. "Here you go ladies. Since it's quiet, may I join you for a coffee and hear the tales of the morning and Wright clan connections?" She goes and pours herself a cup.

Constance Reader motions to the empty seat.  "Oh please join us."  she smiles.  Then she continues.  "Well .... Only Miriam returned to 'normal'. She was married to Sage Wright, who is Morgans cousin. Morgan is in and out of bed with my sister... which is a wonderful thing, because few people need to get laid more than Selma ... Sunflower."  she giggles.  "Now Sage .... wandered off someplace.  To find himself ... or something.  I know at least one of his sons is none too happy with it. "  she begins to eat and moans in carnal pleasure at the taste, but says nothing because that would require swallowing.

Doctor Song is a little confused by all the names of people she don't know yet, but listens intently .

Tallulah Beal's eyes move side to side like she's watching a tennis match in her head while Connie talks and then she just giggles "So that's her real name, Selma. Small small world." She looks at Rose "Yours must be too on an island like Theta?" She looks at Connie "Well we've never met because really all Morgan and I did together was have a fling at a folk festival and create a human. I wasn't the only woman he created one with that year so I raised Anna alone in Vancouver for the first ten years. Then she asked about her father, so we came back so she could meet him." She looks between the women "So I never met all these Wrights but Anna has met some of them by now. Maybe I was wrong to deny her as a child but he....already had a child on the way....he just didn't know it yet." She smiles at the reaction to the granola "It's all from the Okanagan. I strive to use local ingredients."

Constance Reader smiles and finally swallows.  "It's like a dream."  she tells Tallulah.  "But ... yea ... flings at folk festivals .. have their upsides."  she giggles.  "Well ... I wouldn't say all that.  Morgan is, if you can believe it he more stable .. in MY opinion.  But Miriam ..  my other sister .. left him anyway ... but trying to be 'right' left one of her sons with him."  she sighs.  "It's a mess.  It really is."  she looks across the table at Rose.  "You're from Theta?  Oh one of my best friends is there.  She teaches shop classes."

Doctor Song   Thinks to herself back to a time of Russ and well some of the Knots on her cap were earned by a few flings that spring, " yes I live in Theta  Know a couple of the school staff members  , Rodrigo Bender, Betty Padgett, and Judy  er deng it forgot her last name ."

Tallulah Beal nods at Connie and then laughs "Morgan is sometimes stable. Read his conspiracy book though before you commit to that word for him...." she smirks and then listens to Rose "Is it a big school? It must be bigger than ours here......"

Constance Reader arches her brow.  "Baldwin. Judy Baldwin.  She and I are in a Widows support group I have.  And I will be having more Senior activities very soon.  Taking over for the boob in Alexandra.  It's not at all organized and that needs to change.  "We're old, not dead and ...." she blinks.  "Conspiracy theories?  Well that explains THAT.  Sage thought of every one known to exist for his sons allergies and intolerances." she sighs deeply.  "The boy has some, but I also think many are in his allergic little head." then she giggles a little.  "But at least Morgan STAYED and didn't decide to go off and find himself, leaving a young and sickly boy at home ... OK .. not young .. he's a grown man, but still." she huffs.

Doctor Song:" Theta's actual school building was demolished  for safety  so I'm told so what exists now are the shops and some modern module classrooms for the normal school stuff. weird but the kids love the effect of a more open campus."

Tallulah Beal looks between the women "Interesting. Well however they can learn right?" she looks at Connie specifically "Are you from Vancouver then?"

Constance Reader shrugs.  "I don't get to Theta much.  Judith always comes to Tsawwassen." she looks at Tallulah.  "Which is where I am from.  I think I'm going to move, though." she giggles.  "My kids can't spell Tsawwassen, and .. too many others can't either.  So it's worth selling my condo to find a nice place everyone can spell."

Doctor Song giggles   " I think I need to be heading back soon, " she says  solemnly . " I have a town hall meeting to prepare for the mayor".

Tallulah Beal smiles "Well handy for the ferry, Tsawwassen." She mispronounces it a little and then looks at Rose "Big job it sounds like. How's he doing, the new guy? And it was good to see you."

Constance Reader arches a brow.  "Have fun with that."  she smiles.  "See ....  you can't pronounce it either.  What were they thinking?  Revenge on the goy!  But you take care, Rose and I hope to see you soon.  I think I will go and pack and head back to my unpronounceable home."  she laughs.

Doctor Song " He is doing a great Job but has his hands full at the moment"   Good Seeing you Tallulah and Great meeting you Connie"

Mariner's RP February 18th - India, Nick and Brian

India Tor walks in the Mariners and peers through the crowd, spots Nick and, for a moment looks like she wants to back away quickly. Instead she takes a deep breath and approaches, sitting beside him and ordering a simple tea. Looking at him out of the corner of her eye like a friend who has lately acted foolish.

Nick Callahan is sipping on a beer and gives India a sideways frothy grin before saying "Mama Tor." His eyes twinkle as they always do "Everything all right with the little angel?"

Brian.Stewart walks in, exhaling softly, as he plunks down and then looks at the menu. He nods at the other two patrons "I'll have your chicken dinner with extra mash potato and what ever beer ya have on tap that's heavy enough to get a oxen pissed." He says a bit frustratingly.

India Tor turns a little darker, blushing. "She's happy .. for now." she replies. "It's Daddy's first solo tour with him. So we'll see..." she pauses and seems about to say something. She sees another enter but doesn't know him. But his order seems short to her, so she turns back to Nick. "Um ... how are you? OK?" She seems quite hesitant to speak to him.

Nick Callahan seems confused by India's hesitation but hears the red bearded man say strong enough to get an oxen pissed and has to chuckle and give the guy a nod before looking at India again and giving her shoulder a little rub "I'm fine. I need to get over and see that baby of yours when you're not trying to take a little break. Something on your mind India?" He takes another sip of his dark ale.

Brian.Stewart  just exhales as he gets his beer and looks like he is half relieved to get the brew. He looks at the other patrons,  nodding, after he has killed about half of his drink "That's betta." He says with his thick Scotsman's accent. Exhaling, as he washes down the days troubles, he turns to the stranger  "You got a new wee one , right?" he says, exhaling sharply like he is trying to calm himself "'Well congratulations." 'He says in a forced polite tone, figuratively, biting his lips as not to sour the new festive occasion despite his own plight.

India Tor pauses a moment as he rubs her shoulder in such a friendly way. "Yes. Oh she's lovely. I ... well, if your not ... I mean ..." she stammers .. quite unlike herself. And hen she lets it out. "I seem to remember talking ... yelling at you while I was in labor and .. but .. well ... if you're not ... well .. mad at my .. well..it WAS a bribe. If your not too mad .. could you .. I mean would you ...." she sighs and smiles, a bit awkwardly. "We want you to be the baby's god-grandfather." se pauses. "Please?" she blinks and looks at the redhead. "Yes. I do. Jayla." she chuckles. "Please tell me it was town gossip and not a tabloid that told you?"

Nick Callahan Nick laughs heartily and gives India a one armed hug "We don't keep records of things ladies say in labour. You had a hard job. Until men can have babies the best thing we can do is shut up and take it right? " He laughs some more "I would be honoured to be her grand-godfather. Thank you for asking me."

Brian.Stewart  listens as he nurses the rest of his beer nodding empathetically at the new mothers plight.  Getting his mind off his own for the mom and chuckling all at the right moments.. "Nah I ain't privy to such golden nuggets .. since the I'm surround by menfolk all the live long."'He chuckles "I just hear ya say something about a daddy and going solo .. good thing he has you .. right." he nods "That's always good."'He rattles off as he takes another sip.

India Tor can't help but sigh in relief at the forgiveness and then giggle. "Good point. I said a few unkind things to Ryan, too but he forgave me, too. Thank you." she smiles. "You remind me of MY father ... so ... " she shrugs. She looks at the redhead. "I had her at home and my man was there for it .... for good or ill. I told myself I wolf be dignified and not be like a bad comedy sketch but .... " she giggles again. "I was ... like a bad comedy sketch." she confesses. "I even called the chief of police and said unkind things."

Nick Callahan grins and nods at the man "Well need a few women folk around to keep you humble then Mr......sorry I'm Nick. I don't think we've been introduced?" He listens to India and then looks genuinely touched that he reminds her of her father and reassures her "Nah you were a good comedy sketch. I think Angie might still be laughing at me as we sit here."

Brian.Stewart  waves it off 'like that other bloke said.. us menfolk .. got to be a bit compassion at what you womenfolk have to deal with .. cause .. me boys birth.. 'he shakes his 'well i wouldn't even wish that pain on me ex.. wife'he exhales..  but I'm sure all that was justified .. 'he nods 'you lasses have far off.. worst.. but then again.. puberty was a right . mess.. but that last for a bit .. but yeah .. 'he shakes his head.. 'i think both sexes have it hard at one point or another but yeah.. i thank whatever Celtic god or goddess that not .... he rattles off like he does when  he has had his chance  from taking break from .. like the flood gates were open .. he detours his conversation  at the new topic "Oh me name is Brian Stewart .. pleasure to meet ya .... 'he trails off as if to ask his and the woman's name  looking at them both in turn

India Tor is given her tea with a little lemon and squeezes the juice in followed by a little sugar spooned in and stirs it all. Then she sips it and seems to relax, but looks over her shoulder in the direction of her apartment and takes out her phone and sets it down on the bar. She looks at the man. "Oh, yes. I'm India. India Tor." and then she seems to turn even darker. "Oh! Angie was there? She heard?" she seems embarrassed all over again. "Why did she laugh at you?" she wonders and sips her tea again, her head turning and stopping, as if trying hard not to look over it. She looks at the man. "Yea .. that was some kind of pain. But they lie when they say you forget about it the moment you see your child. But ... yes it was worth it."


Nick Callahan gives just one nod at Brian and says his name back to him as a trick to try and remember it "Brian Stewart. Scotland originally if I dare ask?" He grins at India "Angie was laughing at me, not you. She's been through two births herself a long time ago and she thought my shock was funny. But somebody's gotta put me in my place now and then right?" He winks.

Brian.Stewart  nods 'yeah .. i agreed there .. though i did get me hand squeeze so hard its a wonder i can use it 'he joke . but yeah the minute i say me wee lad.. 'he exhales softly . his tenseness fading .. as he is remind . 'all me trouble.. just poof 'he say softly 'went away for that moment 'he say looking to the lady and beam at her ..'yeah it'll be trying but worth ever moment of it '  'aye.. thats me motherland .. Shetland to be exact.. 'eh laughs  and smiles all warmly at the mother.. 'taww that just sweet .. whats the princess. full given name 'he listens.

India Tor turns a touch darker. "Oh ... yes .. I was a ... little crazy ...." she admits. "Ryan could't get the phone away from me. But he did when I tried to call Adum." she chuckles herself. "Probably for the best on that right?" she looks at the man. "Oh she is Jayla Sakura Yamada-Tor. Hyphenated her last name. My father was Jay and his mother is Sakura." she pauses. "But APPARENTLY it is also the names of a Star Trek character." she narrows her eyes. "I didn't know that really until we'd named her." she sighs. "My fault for loving a geek, right?"

Nick Callahan looks intrigued "Ah the Shetlands, practically it's own culture within Scotland eh? Just like our Cedar Point within the lower mainland really." He shrugs at India "Well it's a pretty name. Can't say I've watched enough Star Trek to know all the names aside from the famous ones. Leave it to Ryan though." He snickers.

Brian.Stewart just raises a red eyebrow 'listening . aww that sweet  .. I'm betting me whole house she is sweeter then a cherry blossom 'he laughs 'well I'm one to talk.. name me boy after a Japanese fox legend .. cuz i like the story .. got a bit into Japanese culture when i worked there.. but don't ask me to speak it now if you want to keep your sanity 'laughs 'but that's sweet and geeky and that's all good too . if was up to me ex .. kit would been name after one of the rats worlds character'he chuckle 'but that's just sweet 'he nods to nick 'yeah basically but yeah .. ... bit think that's why i took to this land.. it felt like home then minute i step on the land 'he exhales .. 'even got an nice pub..  'he laughs .. 'need to bring me boy in here since he can drink .. now 'he laughs .. 'buy his first .. beer you know 'he laughs 'in a pub like it should be.

India Tor grins. "I haven't either. He tricked me, I think ... but I love him anyway." she giggles. "Oh Shetland, like the ponies?" she wonders. Then she laughs. "I was named after a country I never saw, but ... " she grins.


Brian.Stewart  nods 'yeah oddly me family raises them and the dogs.. got me good dog here and he seems to like it . '


Nick Callahan gives Brian a crooked smile "You sure it's his FIRST beer? Gotta keep count in the fridge when they cross that teen line. " He shrugs "India's a good name. I was named after my grandfather. Glad they didn't name me Ireland Callahan though.....bit much to say."

Brian.Stewart  laughs 'i was name after  me uncle that passed away before i was born.. the English side .. 'he laughs softly .. but yeah ..'i don't think its his first beer.. well drink.. but.. cause i think he drank.. on new years but I'm not sure.. 'he says pensive.. 'well its his first .. legal drink'he laughs 'i think.. 'he gets a bit frustrated exhaling softly and killing the rest of his  drink .. '

India Tor smiles. "Did you know that Michael's middle name is near the same? But he was named after St Nick. His mother told me." and so, obviously it was fair game to share with any warm blooded mammal. "Why parents name their kids is always such an interesting story to hear." she grins at the idea of illegal drinks versus legal drinks ad sips her tea.


Nick Callahan waves off Brian's worries "Ah we all did it. The sneaking a drink, and manage to lead productive lives as adults. He'll be alright. I was teasing you." He turns, listening to India "Reinhardt huh? His mother's a little sprite compared to him. It's almost adorable." He looks thoughtful "We named Eryn from a baby book of names but it was Irish so my parents approved." He smiles but it doesn't reach his eyes this time like he's putting it on a bit.

Brian.Stewart  raises and eyebrow trying to understand conversation as much as he could for a outsider and just orders another beer as his meal comes to him . his red eyebrow furrowing as he tries to keep up with them as he silently eat  nodding with a mouthful of potato in his gob. as he listen like a barfly but smirks and gulp  'yeah .. i stole me old mans Jamieson's all the time.. too drunk to notice though 'he winces looking down at his beer and sip it to wash down to down his dinner  and stuff more of the mountain of potatoes in his gob.. for a reason seem silent and he chews


India Tor giggles. "Yes. She's just so small! It's hard to imagine her as related. But he was surely smaller when he was born." she watches Nick's eyes but says nothing on it. "But I am glad she is here now." she glances over her shoulder and catches herself, quickly sipping from her tea and glancing at her phone.

Nick Callahan nods at Brian and then watches the man eat for a second before noticing India "Are you going to make it? Hard to let them go, even if it's for your mental health. He hasn't called though so she's OK. Ryan's an old pro India. They all raised Tristan before Michael stepped in to be a Dad. He's been trained..." He laughs "You're making me hungry Brian. I'm meeting Tallulah for a very late dinner though so I best not spoil it. She's as a silent meditation retreat thing. I shoulda gone for this one. the last one I agreed to was chanting....it was horrible. I felt like one of those Gregorians....but so off key I thought they were gonna kick me out. "

Brian.Stewart  bites on the chicken leg savagely like some medieval guy and chews it a bit, swallowing it down as he smiles at the other patrons after awhile of eating trying not ruin their happy night as he eats the food and drink doing their work to satisfied him and pacify him for the moment as he watched them and then gulps it down as he is spoken to 'aye.. sorry mate.. just getting off work and so hungry i could eat a Shetland pony 'he jokes 'but sorry  bout .. food pretty tasty here 'he laughs 'taste like home'he say in bittersweet tone but smiles '

India Tor sighs a little, thoroughly busted. "I didn't think it would be this hard." she admits. "I made a couple of bottles. She'll take it .. but isn't happy about it. But Ryan said I should and that it was good for Jalya." she drinks from her tea again. "But it's hard. I'm trying not to feel unneeded. It's not like I do EVERYTHING and thank goodness for Ryan." she grins. "Michael a father. I know he has experience too but he just doesn't look the part ... but who looks the part?"
[17:00]  Nick Callahan laughs "Don't eat the ponies. The tourists will have nightmares. " He gives India a sympathetically at India "You'll figure it all out. Can't tell what's in a person's heart from their outsides ever. Just life right."

Brian.Stewart  laugh after swallow his second bite of chicken as he pull out his phone awkward typing on the small screen .. his brow furrowed before finally after awhile smile as he attempt to send a message.. 'he laugh softly and look up'can i get a plate to go.. not right now but when i finish my plate.. 'eh saw softly to the tender an look over 'nobody .. 'he chuckles 'no one is really prepared but that's the magic of it all 'he laughs 'were all clueless in the start... some still clueless in the middle.. but all you got to do is try .. 'he say softly  'he laughs 'nah they're too gamey.. i eat one on dare back in secondary school  'he laughs 'what one does as a dumb lad.. looking for a lager and some laughs and a coulpa pounds'he laughs

India Tor giggles. "I will. I know but ....." she looks at her phone. "I don't want to be gone TOO long. Yanno. Just in case ... well .. Ryan spoils her beyond all redemption." she laughs.

Nick Callahan head juts and starts at Brian "You ate a whole pony? It's not like a Cornish game hen man...." He laughs but there's a tinge of horror and disbelief before he grins at India "Oh I'm sure he already has Mama Tor. Daughters have that effect."

 Brian.Stewart  laughs 'of course.. not .. just like a steak.. 'he laughs ..'wouldn't do that again for the world he say as he focus on the man that is speaking to him then give the woman .nod..'i like a daughter.. but that pony left the stable awhile ago 'he laughs  and just finishes his supper nodding to the new mom smiling at her endeared to the whole situation of her new baby and family

 India Tor giggles and nods at them both. "Male appetite." she ignores how she ate while she was pregnant. And then she nods. "Yes." she looks mock sad. "Jayla is going to lose her pinky fingers, she has her father so tightly wrapped around hers." she giggles. "But ... father's right to spoil their daughter. My father did .. ALL fathers do I guess." she pats at Nick's elbow. "You can have the pinky finger on her other hand." she winks. Jayla can't replace Eryn but maybe take a little sting out of it.

Nick Callahan laughs at Brian "You're an interesting fellow....." He laughs again because how can you not. The whole conversation of fathers and daughters is both sweet and bittersweet. Nick had loved having a daughter from Eryn's birth until the quake took her. He still loved it but it was painful without her in the world. He ruefully smiled at India "Careful now. It'll go right to her head. Are you doing one of those baby shower deals to pass her around? I'm sure all the Yamada's have already pinched and squeezed her all to bits. Yuki was telling me about a pizza night with all of that last time I went for fish and chips."

Brian.Stewart  winces'' i would have spoiled me little lass like she was the princess of a galaxy 'he chuckles and he takes a sip of his beer and looks at it  reflecting in its amberness pensively but glances up to them from time to time beaming at the other peoples happy life

India Tor scoffs. "Do your worst, Grampa." she challenges. "She has relatives and in laws and even Michael's mother stops by to make sure I'm not exhausted. And if Sakura is there too ... " she grins. "I know I am missing out on maternal exhausting nonsense, but I like it. I'm not completely wasted. I can even nurse at two in the morning and half sleep through it." she giggles. She looks at her phone again. "Alright. I've been gone long enough. I'm having baby withdrawal." she admits. "Even if she doesn't miss me I miss her." she defends herself and sets her card out to pay her tab.

Nick Callahan takes India's card and offers it back to her "Tea toteler...I got this. I hate to use mine on one beer anyway. You go kiss that baby for me and I'll come visit soon." He smiles at Brian "Well according to her name she's a something of a galaxy...hopefully not some kinda evil alien that hunts everyone..." He laughs.

Brian.Stewart  looks up jumping a bit out of his spacing out and laughs 'yeah.. galaxy... you know if i had a baby girl.. i was going to name her Leia .. 'he say  softly 'to fisher .'he say raising his glass 'eh sips it finishing it off

India Tor smiles and takes her card back. "I will. I promise. AND come by soon. Please? It's settling in with us all now." she grins. "Oh I like that name. let me stop before I have another one." she teases ad stands, kissing Nick on the cheek. "Take care Gramps. Good to meet you Brian." and she head to the door trying not to walk too fast.

 Brian.Stewart  nods 'pleasure is all mine 'he say as he finishes off his plate and orders his sons'


Nick Callahan grins at the kiss and the word Gramps "Gramps. I like that. See you soon Mama Tor.". He raises the last of his beer and toasts back "To Leia, and all who leave the world with no warning. " He sighs after India "Sometimes the universe does know how to help us get through eh? You take care Brian."

Brian.Stewart  nods as he leans on the table waiting for his food . he nod 'yeah ..it does'he smiles and beams at the older man

Nick Callahan stands up and pays for the tea and the beer and then walks by Brian with a light slap on his shoulder as he passes "No horse meat. Have a good one." and he's off out the door.

Casual RP February 16th - Sasha, Anna and Hani

Sasha Williams all but skips into the Dandelion.  "Hi!"  she begins to look t the display and options and then sees Anna.  "Oh Hi Miss Anna, right?"  she hasn't seen the lady for a LONG time."

Anna Wright looks up from casually scrolling on her phone and smiles "Just Anna. Hi Sasha."

Sasha Williams keeps looking at the menu.  "Let me have a loaf of the white wheat bread and ..."  she considers.  "Four coffee rolls, please.  Oh and a coffee!"  Tara nods and tells her the coffee rolls will take a while.  new batch in the oven.  Sash sort of squees and nods.  "That's fine."

Anna Wright looks mildly amused by the squee "Good day then Sasha? You're welcome to come sit. How's your mom doing?"

Sasha Williams takes the wrapped bread and her coffee and moves over.  Fresh out the oven coffee rolls?  DUH!"  she rolls her eyes dramatically.  "My mom's doin pretty well.  She has 2 jobs sort of, so I'm helping out.  learning to cook.  My gran is comparing this bread to the bread I left in t he oven at home."  she snorts.  "No pressure, Sasha."

Anna Wright looks back towards the ovens and then at Sasha "Your Gran is setting bakery standards at home?" she laughs "Geez. Does she live with you now too?"

Sasha Williams nods.  "ell they both can cook real good."  she replies.  "So i gotta too."  she nods.  "Yea.  She got out in time.  She likes it here too.  Says its all safe here, so I can go around alone and suff."

Anna Wright nods "It is a pretty safe town. I mean nowhere is perfect but this is pretty good. Got out in time? Is she from one of the countries Trump is trying to ban?"

Sasha Williams nods. "I'm learning that.  And that not every noise in the woods is a serial killer."  she grins.  "No she says its preemptive.  Cause Trump won't know the difference between none of the brown people he can't stand.  She's from Chicago originally but moved from Minneapolis."

Anna Wright makes a face "She could have a point there. It's unbelievable that this is still going on in the States. I hope your Gran likes life here at least."

Sasha Williams sighs.  "You know ... I didn't REALLY think this could happen but it's like its all going backwards.  I mean ... you supposed to have religious freedom.  And Muslim is a religion BUT Trump do't like Mexicans .. and I can only guess if you put a Mexican and a Italian or someone side by side he wouldn't be able to tell the difference if they kept their mouths shut."  she nods.  "She does and also says I can get a good education here even if she thinks homeschooling gonna skyrocket in America now."

Anna Wright nods "It could. Have you met any other homeschooled kids here...oh wait Hani right? You both are......" She looks a little troubled by the idea of Hani after knowing they got in a fist fight "Do you and Hani....get along OK?" she asks carefully.

Sasha Williams nods.  "Yea. but Hani and I don't school like together.  I guess we learn survival stuff."  she holds up her hand.  "Not zombie stuff.  REAL stuff.  Like I don't know.  Maybe even a war."  she leans forward and lowers her voice.  "Is it true Muslims crossing the boarder to come here?"  she asks in a whisper.

Anna Wright grimaces a little at the word war and nods again "Yep...a ton of asylum seekers are coming into Canada. Have you been reading the CBC? In the prairies they're losing fingers and toes from the cold, wading through snow in farmer's fields. Scary stuff."

Sasha Williams nods.  "Yea.  It's bad.  And after a while Canadians gonna get sick of it and want them to go someplace else.  Then its all trouble.  she sighs.  "America used to be all like bring me your tired and poor and huddled masses. Now gramma says it says whites only."  she swallows and sighs, dipping her head.  "Says we gone back at least 60 years.  Maybe more.  Maybe a LOT more."

Anna Wright sighs "So far, most of our leaders seem to have the viewpoint of helping people who need it. I hope it stays that way. Diversity is why we exist. We best not forget it."

Sasha Williams nods.  "I guess we'll find out .. if they keep on coming ... I'm guessin it'll result in some bad things.  Mostly like slums and homelessness and jobs lost to so called natives."  she sighs.  "Sorry. I don't have a whole lot of faith in humanity.  Too much Internet."  she jokes.

Anna Wright smiles kindly at Sasha "I'm hopeful. Don't lose yours yet.......you're too young to give

Sasha Williams offers her half an incredulous smile. The other half is surprised. "Well it's kinda too late for ll that but .... this place kinda gives some back to me."  she pauses.  "But if it all goes bad ... I want to be ready.  I could even help defend Cedar Point."she suggests, as if the call has gone out to form a militia.

Anna Wright has to work not to smile. She knows this kid has had a different life. She tries to redirect "Well I think the worst thing coming our way in the spring are the raccoons. They come every spring...."

Sasha Williams 's eyes widen.  "Raccoons? Really?"  she looks eager.  "I've seen videos .. they're smart.  I wonder if they make as good pets as the videos claim ....."  she could be plotting.

Anna Wright shakes her head and pleads "Do NOT feed them Sasha! Some of them are rabid. We had a major issue last year. Two cops got bit. We all had to get vaccinated.....NOT pets! Wild animals."

Sasha Williams twists her lips in a slight pout.  "Well ... granted .. they aren't as useful as dogs are." she grugdenly admits.  "And I know Officer Reinhardt hates them, and I want to stay on his good side for my lessons." she arches a brow. "I thought rabies shots were for AFTER you got bit?  More research, I see."

Haninozuka Wang walks in and leans in on the counter 'hmm 'he looks at display trying to make up his mind

Sasha Williams looks over at Hani.  "Hey, you gonna spoil your appetite for dinner!"  she calls, teasing.

Haninozuka Wang huffs out 'I'm a growing boy beside .. were have liver.... like calf liver  'he scrunches his nose . 'why can my parents just cook.. sushi or something... 'he sigh a bit whiny .. as his stupid hormones at wreaking havoc on his teen body .. with his voice cracking ' oh fuck.. really .. 'he say his voice faltering .. an he looks back in the glass.

Anna Wright has to turn as she stifles a laugh, remembering that age and male friends. she turns back "Hi Hani. You could make them sushi?"

Sasha Williams looks scandalized.  "Liver?  What did YOU do?"  she wonders and grins, but doesn't laugh at his cracking voice.  "We're having black eyes peas and ham hocks."  she announces.  "And fresh baked bread.  I made some and I bought some. Just in case I suck." she looks at Hani carefully.  "You know how to do all that?  I thought you were Chinese?"  shes still learning not to do ... that.

Haninozuka Wang spots a big  zit on .. his nose in his reflect 'the fuck is this .. 'hes voice goes high pitch as he overacts .. he turns covering his face with his hand trying to act cool . 'yeah .. I'm going to your house.. 'he say then looks at the counter and orders pointing massive bunch of sweet with his free hand . 'all of those to go.. 'he sympathize with the pimpling clerk ..' he turns back 'I don't know how , and I'm not Chinese.. I'm half Japanese and half wherever the fuck wolf is 'he in huffs not related to their question .

Anna Wright shrugs "OK. All I said was make sushi. I'm a Euro descended sorta mutt but I make nori rolls, not traditionally I'm sure. I wouldn't dare compete with the chefs at Sakura....but one of them did teach me to make rolls." She smiles "No worries Hani, no assumptions. and Sasha's dinner does sound tasty." She smiles over at Sasha.

Sasha Williams purses her lips.  "You wanna get rid of .. you know." she touches her nose casually.  "You might wanna stay away from ... you know." she twitters her finger at the display taking in ...well ... most of it.  "And you welcome to.  Gran and Mama love how you eat.  Like you just don't care."  she rolls her eyes.

Haninozuka Wang shoves his debit card to the young lady and starts eating them the moment he gets the bag.. 'he looks back to the them like some beast 'suz... me . 'he ask 'face full of cookies 'he looks over to Sasha as he walks over bringing the bag . 'he looks at you 'you take these and you might as well tell Angus hes going to have a ghost buddy .. Me.. 'he say dramatically . he sniffles a bit unfocused 'oh my god.. i love your grands food .. you think she can make me doubles

Anna Wright blinks at Hani as he inhales "Chew......chew and breathe..." She jokes.

Sasha Williams arches a brow.  "O yea Casper the friendly beef ghost.  No thanks.  I got hips to worry about and skin, too." she laughs.  "My Gran always cooks like she tryin to feed the Tusgee Airmen.  So yea.  Pack it in."  she takes her phone out of her pocket and sends a message.  "Save the liver for when we desperate cause half of America immigrated."  she giggles.  "Spam and liver on my list of desperation foods."  she announces.  "And asparagus.  UGH!"

Haninozuka Wang looks oddly at the both of them as he eat half of the bag of cookies  hungrily like he hasn't eaten for days.. when you can literally smell the ginger and beef from his round of hitting up both Sakura and the dragon.. 'he looks at you 'he hates beef... but he wouldn't tell me why .. i thinks its the blood that poor kid fuck know what he went through . 'he shakes his head 'it bad when your have to calm down a tween ghost.. that's suppose be making you shit your pant 'he say excitedly ' he nods 'you keep the liver.. I don't like I've with a fava beans and a nice Chianti."

Anna Wright laughs "I quite like asparagus....but it took awhile. You have a ghost who likes beef in your house Hani? As opposed to Hanibal Lecktor?"

Sasha Williams snorts.  "Well if the world keeps on you better like it!"  she tells him.  "But don't eat the liver ... its the filter of the body.  Heart ....  that's probably another story.  But I hear human flesh isn't really good so .. meh ... if it comes to that I'll jut go vegan."

 Haninozuka Wang shakes his head .. 'he hates.. it . and blood .. hides my dresser when I watch horror flicks 'he say ominously ' he say softly like he  is talking about an annoyingly kid brother . 'yeah I heard the heart was good .. I had pig heart once.. 'eh say softly 'it goes good with a bottle of sangria mountain dew 'he say softly 'well I like meat .. a lot but yeah ..I think when I get older I'll slaughter my own stock... seen some bad shit on the net .. about .. slaughterhouses and the raising of stock 'he say softly finishing the other half of his cookies.

Anna Wright tries not to react at the organ meat talk and the simultaneous cookie eating but politely excuses herself "Well I hope you both have a good dinner. I think I'll go make...a salad..." She laughs as she stands and picks up her phone.

Sasha Williams snorts and rolls her eyes, albeit patiently. "My gran used to make headcheese ... another place I draw the line unless I got no other choice. Lincoln died so I don't have to eat that crap." she watches him eat as her order comes up. "Yea, I gotta get this home. Show up round 6, Hani .. as usual." she calls on her way out the door.

Haninozuka Wang waves at Anna smiling broadly'but baracoa is nice though .. and its make from cows head meat 'he say   turns and to her 'yeah . yeah." But the door closes and Hani is alone with his hormones and cookie crumbs.

Surprise Visit - Stephanie and Sara

****This one got forgotten in a pile, sorry:)) ****

The woman who walked into Sakura Sushi was tall, blonde, blue eyed, with the 'perfect' figure.  It was as if she had walked right out of a fashion magazine.  Anyone with half a grain of knowledge could see that her clothes were top of the line.  Confidence wafted off of the woman in waves and, in many ways, she did not seem to belong in a small town sushi restaurant.

Eien blinked at her when she walked in, taking in all of it.  But his manners were always on the surface.  "May I help you?"

The woman looked at this dark man with the Japanese accent and spoke to him with one of her own.  A German accent.  "I vould like to speak please to Stephanie Yamada."

Stephanie was in the cooler counting stock and checking it off on an invoice "Oh you tricky bastards.....that was 7 not 8......but you charged us for 8..." She's speaking to no one of course and she knows it and then laughs at herself as she walks back out of the cooler to see Eien talking to some blonde goddess creature. Well He was having a good day! She casually moved to the cork board by the cooler and then heard the woman speak her name asking for her. Stephanie turned and looked at the creature with a tilt of her head "I'm...Stephanie Yamada..." She offered curiously as she walked forward.

The woman smiles politely.  "Hello.  Is it possible I can have a private vord vit ju, bitte?"  she asks, glancing at the door.  "My name ist Sara.  Sara Schneider."  she pauses.  "I used to be Sara Reinhardt."

Stephanie starts to smile back and follows her gaze to the door and then her eyes widen and her mouth drops open "Uh...Sara....hi, sorry. Yes, let's....go for a walk?" She looks at Eien as if to say please call someone if I never return and then heads for the door, pushing it open and slowly walking along the seaside walkway.

Walking out of the door, Sara looks incredibly elegant.  It seems she is one of those women who would look simply elegant in the grip of a bad case of food poisoning.  She walks along the walkway, her full length leather coat flapping in the wind.  For a while, it seems she isn't actually going to say a word, never mind many of them, but as they get nearer the beach she asks softly, and perhaps a bit suddenly.  "Do you love Michael?"

Stephanie works not to stare at Sara but catches her from her periphery view and feels uncommonly short, under-dressed and painfully plain. She nervously adjusts her glasses about 4 times and tucks her hair behind her ears as they stop near a bench and Sara asks a ludicrous question. After a blink she says with no hesitation "More than anything. Why would you think I wouldn't?" If they sit, will she still be this much shorter than Sara?

The answer makes Sara smile and sigh a bit.  "Nein.  It is not zat I doubt ju."  she explains.  "Please do not think so badly of me.  He ist mein best friend.  Und I vant only the most happiness for him."  she glances down a royal nose.  "He loves you.  I know zis is so true, zo at first I thought he vast only trying again to be ..  vat Heinrich vanted of him to be."  the name comes from her mouth as if it has a disagreeable taste.

Stephanie isn't sure where this is all coming from but admits "It did start that way..but then it changed. Does Michael know you're in town?"

With a small smile, Sara admits.  "Ja, he told me ju vere vat I once vas ... but for ju he feels vat he never felt for me."  she smiles.  "Ja, ja .. of course.  I drop off his check to him every month,"  she tells her.  "But zis ist last month of it."

Stephanie smiles back "Well that part must be a relief? Look it is nice to meet you finally." She reaches out a hand to shake.

Looking at the hand, Sara does not immediately take it.  "Not really.  I am ... moving back to Munuch."  she says.  "To vork."  she cants her head and nods slowly.  "Harley's money vill go into the account automatically now."  she bites her lip and finally takes Stephanie's hand.  "Und ju."  her grip is solid and sure.

Stephanie looks kindly at Sara "Mmm I guess Mike's going to have to miss you. But do you like the work in Munich?" There's something odd about her reaction.

There is a bittersweet look about Sara.  "He vill miss me, but I think he vill be fine."  she shrugs.  "It is vork.  I have missed Germany.  But ven I first come here it vas very ... um ... frightening.  Michael help me.  Speaking German.  Teaching me English .. is very hard for me.   But now . my job ist done.  I just want ... I do not vant to see him hurt, ja?"

Stephanie frowns a bit and then smiles "Listen Sara, I love Mike. I honestly don't plan to hurt him. Are you Ok?"

A sad smile comes across Sara's face.  "For many months, I have been ... so jealous of you."  she confesses.  "To have what I wanted for many years."  she laughs a little bit.  "You know how ze vomen look at Michael.  But is much more zan just zat."

Stephanie gasps as it dawns on her what Sara is really saying and she feels sudden guilt "Oh...." She looks down and then up at her "You....you love him? I'm sorry..."

The woman shakes her head, her beautiful perfect blond hair shimmering.  "Nein ... vell .. ja."  she sighs.  "I had hoped ven ve married ... perhaps.  But ... it vas not to be.  Zere vas Harley und by ze time Harley die ... is like Michael die alzo.  But vas long before zen I accept he cannot love a voman.  He vas gay man.  But he explain to me ... zat you are ZE voman for him.  Is not zomethin he can explain.  But ... you ... are ze voman for him."  sme smiles.  She can accept it.


Stephanie sighs sadly at her and sits on the bench now "Does he know, or did he know how you feel?"

With a chuckle, Sara joins Stephanie on the bench.  "Michael is very male."  she replies.  "I do not tink he ever know.  Or vould never believe.  Und .. is not zomething he needs to know."  she smiles.  "Zere is a man in my life now.  Ze one I have ze not real affair vit."  she blushes a little bit.  "After ze divorce he und I ve date for real."

Stephanie nods "I won't tell him. Do you love the man in your life now at least?" She feels absolute compassion. She can imagine simply wanting to curl up and die if her love for Michael had been forever unrequited. The poor woman.

The question makes Sara's face light up.  "Ja.  Derrik could not understand vhy Michael thought he und I vere having an affair.  But after he und I become closer und ...."  she smiles.  "He heals me."

Stephanie finds herself taking the other woman's hand "I'm so glad.....Michael heals me....not from the same kind of thing...but from other things...a guy who left me in labour with a kid...Michael's adopting my son. Maybe the universe sent you Derrik...you know for a reason."

A nod and a smile are only part of Sara's answer.  "Ja.  I think zo alzo."  she smiles and squeezes the hand.  "I vanted to meet you.  But not vit Michael around.  Or .. vell .. his mother .. I htink she knew I vas not .. for .. her zon."  she can't help but giggle a little bit, remembering Kaitlin.

Stephanie doesn't confirm that, even though she knows it. It wouldn't be helpful at this point to rub it in "She's an interesting lady. I think she's finding herself right now...but she's happier."

With a snort, Sara agrees.  "Zat horrible man."  she frowns again, but even in darkness her face is radiant.  "I pretend ot like him but .. he ist .. the vorst of Germany."  she sighs.  "I tink ven I her he is deat zat it is gut thing.  Ze whole family .. is like liberated, ja?"

Stephanie nods "Big time. There was a lot to let go and they may still need some work with it, but it's started." Steph looks curiously at Sara. How could Michael not fall in love with Sara and yet then fall for her? She was simply a magical being. If Steph was inclined towards women, hell she'd fall for her in an instant. Best maybe never to introduce Sara to Tams.....ever...or at least not until the new cop girlfriend is a well established phenomenon.

Nodding, Sara agrees.  "Ja. For all of zem."  she smiles.  "Now he can be open und honest und ... truly Michael.  Danke."  she squeeses both of Stephanies hands.  "FOr giving him zat."

Stephanie squeezes back "I don't know if I gave him that, I think maybe he gave himself that when he was able to mourn Heinrich...but we're pretty open with each other. You have Skype right? I know he values you Sara..."

A smile lights her face.  "You do not.  I know."  she insists and nods.  "Ja, I do."  she goes into the pocket of her coat and pulls out a business card.  "Please add me.  I vant to send a present both for your vedding und ven Michael becomes father, bitte."

Stephanie takes the card and nods "I will. I was nervous when you walked into the restaurant but now I'm really glad we met." She laughs a little and confesses "I still feel short though."

With a laugh, Sara shakes her head.  "I am too tall."  she complains.  "But is good for modeling."  she looks a little confused.  "Ah did ju think I vas ze evil ex wife bitter und angry?  Oh I hope not.  Even ven I loved Michael he vas my best friend first.  Und you ... mein Gott ... your hair."  she sighs wistfully.  More proof that women will kill for what is on someone elses body sometimes.

Stephanie qualifies "Michael never gave me the impression you were evil, bitter or angry. In fact I've never heard him say anything bad about you - that's the intimidating part!" She laughs and smooths her dark hair self consciously as she looks at Sara's blonde hair. Sara was the tall blonde on every magazine cover she'd seen as a teenager growing up. They rarely showed Japanese women in the mainstream media as she was growing up except to fetish - ize them for gross men who had little Asian girl fantasies. But the tall blonde white girls were known to be every man's wet dream. It was improving now, but society still had a long way to go.

Even Sara's laugh is beautiful.  "He ist a vonderful man und I am glad to have had him as a friend.  Vell, still ve are friends, ja.  Many say ze ex ist evil, but for me und Michael is not true.  Und some vimmen."  he scoffs.  "You know how others look at him, ja?"  she shakes her head and shrugs.

Stephanie laughs "Yeah he gets checked out a lot. I've been working on my resting bitch face." She demonstrates and it's honestly a little intimidating. She smiles after "I'm not even sure your face would do it."

Pulling back a bit at the resting bitch face, Sara then laughs.  "Let zem check.  He ist YOUR man."  she lets out a breath.  "I must go.  Ze drive to ze airport vill not be fun.  Please keep me in touch vit your family."  she offers a hug, still sitting.

Stephanie hugs Sara back with a squeeze "I will... we will. You take care Sara."

Grinning, Sara finally stands.  "I vill."  she turns and heads for her car.  It was good to meet this woman that Michael was going to marry, and she was able to return to Germany confident that he would be happy.

Facing the Past - Ziven and Garrett

*****WARNING*****This blog post contains graphic sexual content. Reader discretion is advised.
______________________________________________________


Ziven came home the Friday after Valentines day all at once happy and anxious.  Garrett and he were technically living together, even though Ziven was not in his Cedar Point house and practice more than he was.  Tonya Williams had been warned, even though she didn't spend much time physically in the office when he wasn't there.  Ziven expected that might change ... if he could just survive the next few months.

That might be easy ... but it might not be.

Now he pulls up into the parking lot and shuts off the engine, going around the building tot he other door.  It's late and he suspects Garrett is now home from working at Sakura Sushi.  He unlocks the door and walks in, huge smile on his face.

Garrett is home and binge watching Saturday Night Live Trump mockeries on You Tube. He had made up a takeout order for the two of them, knowing Ziven would be late too and now hears the door and pauses Melissa McCarthy shoving her podium at a reporter while impersonating Sean Spicer. He walks over, still chuckling "God she's good.....Hello Love. I have food for us." He steps up to Ziven, offering a kiss.

Ziven takes Garrett into his arms.  "Hey lover.  I'm home."  he grins and kisses him deeply.  "That means so much MORE now.  I mean ... I've come home to you on Friday night for a long time, but ... now it just ... means even more."  he glances at the TV.  "Goofy ... and sadly accurate."  he moves in for another kiss.

Garrett kisses him back eagerly the first time and then grins at his words "I know..." He gives a short laugh again and then wraps his arms around Ziven tighter and kisses him even more intensely, sliding his hands under Ziven's jacket so he can feel the shape of his body through his shirt.

Ziven melts into he kiss, getting lost in it.  But then he pulls away.  "Hey!  Let me get out of my .. everything."  he teases.  He gets out of his boots and unzipped jacket and then his socks.  "Are you hungry, or ...."  he takes his head band heads for their small dining table.

Garrett chuckles "Sorry, you have that effect on me. I am hungry, but I made us an order. Hope I got all your favourites in the mix." He walks to the kitchen and grabs two plates, sushi soy sauce dishes that he brought from his old house and the takeout from the fridge with chopsticks and napkins and wasabi included. It's a lovely assortment of rolls, sashimi and nigiri. Garrett pours soy sauce for both of them and sits. "You know I forgot to tell you I met an ex of yours...." His voice is a little teasing as Frank was a harmless one.

Ziven laughs at Garrett's eagerness and sits at the table.  He's put a bit of sashimi in his mouth as Garrett mentions meeting an ex of his and he almost chokes.  Recovering and swallowing, he looks at him.  "Which one?"  he barely manages to keep his voice calm.

Garrett smiles "A nice one. And a lesbian now it seems....." He laughs "Frank. She's dating Steph's friend Tamela. They came in for dinner. She was looking at me weird and then Steph explained she had some connection to you from a long time ago. Anyways, she was pleasant. Who were you worried I'd say? And I know I never answered you about why I married Keiko the other day. I just don't like to talk about it. It was a bad choice. I was lonely and she was showing me all kinds of attention. We cybered online and then she kinda freaked out, even though it wasn't actually doing it....so then I felt like I had to offer something so she wouldn't just bail and all of a sudden I blurted out will you marry me like a total idiot."

Ziven looks visibly relieved.  "Frank Sharp?  Oh my god!"  he smiles.  "I've seen her around Alexandra when I'm there, but we really haven't TALKED in years.  Good for her if she's happy.  I was basically her one and only man and ... I never got all the way in, so I'm not sure I even count."  he pauses and his smile fades, but he lets Garrett tell him what happened to Kieko.  "Ouch ... but it is one way to keep a girlfriend."  he sighs and licks his lips.  "I was .... I was worried one of my exes may have contacted you."  he confesses.  "Eight years ago I fell in love with a guy.  We lived together for four years and one day ... he wanted me to move across the country with him and I said no ...  I loved my job with Parks and ... he gave me like an hours notice.  So I got mad and .... we broke up and ..."  he inhales, trying to calm him.  "He still reaches out and pisses me off now and again ... and ... he did exactly that last Monday, when I came to surprise you."  he reaches across the table for his hand.  "Which pissed me off like three times more than usual."

Garrett looks truly sympathetic "Holy shit man. That's pretty demanding. One hour and thinking you'd just leave your whole life. So did he like call you or something out of the blue?" He holds Ziven's hand and gives it a squeeze.

Ziven sighs deeply.  "No.  I'd moved in with him.  And one night he came home.  I fed him.  We made love.  And while we were laying around after, he told me he was going to Montreal.  His flight was leaving at midnight.  Then he got up and started dressing."  he clears his throat.  "He said he wanted me to come with him and I was ... floored.  Just up and leave my job.  No warning, obviously."  he squeezes back and rubs at Garrett's hand.  "We had a big argument.  He didn't have time for a fight.  And then he left."  he scoffs.  "I ripped up the apartment.  Broke almost everything I could.  I called Jeff ... remember him?  But I could't even talk, so I smashed a few more things and started drinking."  he blows out a breath.  "And you know i don't drink.  But I downed two bottles of vodka and two bottles of bourbon.  I guess you might say I was in bad shape.  Trying to drink myself to death in one night.  Jeff had to kick my door down.  He took me back to my trailer and sobered me up."  he lifts Garrett's hand to his lips.  "I worked myself into oblivion after that and for a while had all kinds of meaningless fucks.  Then I met you."  he smiles.  "You had me at 'commitment junkie', I think, even though I was already trying hard not to fall in love with you when you gave me that birthday kiss."  he kisses his hand again.  "YOU got me to love again, Garrett.  And now you have my heart.  More than anyone else ever has."  he wants to get that part out and understood before he goes on.  He clears his throat and seems to change the subject.  "Do you remember when you asked me if I knew the artist Sebastian Knight?  And I said yea.  I knew him?"  he lifts his eyes to Garrett's.  "He was ... the man I had loved.  And that's what happened when he broke up the band Knight Wings and moved to Montreal to pursue his solo career."

Garrett listens to it all with a pained look on his face at someone causing the man he loves so much pain. When Ziven reveals who the man is his eyes go wide and he shoves his free hand into his hair as if he needs to hang onto his head to keep it from rolling off. He just sits there stunned for a full minute and then says awkwardly "Oh my god I'm an asshole...we can sell those concert tickets. Ziven, why didn't you say anything?! I don't want to make you go listen to him after that......"

Ziven offers a small smile.  "Because you're a fan."  he tells him, simply.  "And for you, I will do .. anything.  Even see Sebastian in concert."  he kisses Garrett's hand again.  "But I wanted you to know.  I love you and if you want to see him.  We'll see him as a couple."

Garrett frowns "I don't know if I can support his music after what he did to you. Because Ziven, I love you, and for you I'd do anything. So this one's your call. Dammit I should have bought those Taiko Drum show tickets instead......"He feels the kiss on his hand but then releases Ziven's after and cups one side of his face, caressing his cheek with his thumb "I respect however you want this to go, honestly."

Ziven has been thinking about it.  And about what Jeff was saying.  "I want to go."  he tells him.  "I talked some with Jeff and ... I think I need to go and let him see me with someone phenomenal.  That no matter how many songs he writes ... I've moved away from the insanity and into the arms of a wonderful person."  he turns his head and kisses Garrett's hand.

Garrett smiles at the kiss and then winces "All those songs are about you aren't they? No wonder they all made me think of you.....Ziven this guy still loves you......." He sighs "I hope I'm wonderful and phenomenal enough not to be a jackass to him..." He half smiles but creeping into his eyes is fear.

Ziven sighs and then nods.  "Yea.  They are.  But I don't know about LOVE ... maybe WANTS is more like it."  he smiles himself.  "Well, don't expect ME to stop you from being a jackass to him.  But it really IS my job."  he winks.  "You are the man I love.  And everyone at that concert will see me with you.  Not paying attention to the music.  Hell, maybe I'll even sing every song to YOU."

Garrett laughs "I'll have to work not to feel awkward about that...not you singing to me....just in that situation. We don't have to go......is your friend Jeff going?" He has a look of dawning "Oh god....I talked Izumi into buying a ticket too......"

Ziven laughs along and resumes eating the food.  "Jeff is taking his wife.  He will be there to hold me back if I decide to commit murder."  he assures Garrett.  "But that's good.  Izumi can hold you back.  Or hold me back."  he closes his eyes, then opens them.  "They can all keep me out of jail an din your arms."  he winks and eats a bit more.

Garrett picks up one of the roll pieces and dips it in wasabi and soy sauce "This is either an awesome idea, or a horrible idea. I'm on the fence. Maybe we should send Keiko a plane ticket and get all the exes dealt with at once..." He jokes.

Ziven has filled his mouth with some sushi and chuckles as he chews and swallows.  "It's probably both."  he decides.  "And screw her ... no .. don't.  You're mine now."  he declares.

Garrett shudders in revulsion "No danger of that...does Sebastian like women too? We could try to sick them on each other....see if the world implode s."

Ziven laughs.  "Not a bad idea.  He does, but he's an attention whore.  And a bottom."

Garrett moves his lips into a line, shifting them to one side "Well she's a bit of a prude so I doubt she'd strap anything on to accommodate that." He eats his next piece thoughtfully and watches Ziven. After he chews and swallows he gulps and asks quietly "Does it bother you that I don't... I mean that we haven't...." He cuts off looking a little self conscious.

Ziven chews and swallows, then looks at Garrett.  "Making love is making love."  he tells him.  "And the love we make is perfect for us.  I told you.  If you aren't into anal sex, then we don't have it.  Besides, we're more than just sex, me and you."  he smiles and winks.

Garrett grins back "I'm glad you feel that way. I have to confess it's more of an aversion to the idea...I've never actually tried it. Maybe I'm being closed minded."

Ziven grins.  "When you're ready we'll try it."  he shrugs.  "Tonight to ten years from now of another fifty lifetimes.  I'll love you if we NEVER to it, baby."  he sighs.  "There is pain and pleasure involved ... at least the first time.  And the idea of hurting you....."

Garrett considers this as he eats, involuntarily clenching "I'll think about it."

Ziven chuckles.  "You do that."  he advises, eating more.  After a moment, he casually speaks again.  "In the meantime, I will simply continue to enjoy she soft stroking of your beautiful cock.  The intoxicating smell of your pre-cum.  The sound of your breathing when you feel my mouth around you, and the taste of your beautiful and sweet release."

Garrett chews his last bite distractedly and looks at Ziven like he might just strip and lie down on the table in front of him, offering himself as dessert. He licks his lips and stands up with a little smile, a hard on already visible against his cotton pants as it presses the fabric, leaning to one side "Yes please..." He whispers and his eyes hart towards the bed.

Ziven swallows his last bite and stands as well.  He reaches and takes Garrett's hand and leads him towards the food of their bed.  Looking into his eyes he then kisses him deeply, moving close and indeed beginning to stroke Garrett's cock through his pants.  "I love you so much ...."  he breathes.

Garrett moans into the kiss and again at the stroke as he slides his hands over Ziven's ass and squeezes lightly murmuring back "I love you too...."

Ziven grins and deepens the kiss.  He begins to undo Garrett's pants and sink to his knees.  "I'm still hungry."  he announces, moving to free Garrett's cock and lick before taking the tip in his mouth to gently suck.

Garrett kisses back urgently and then smiles into it as he feels his pants open. When he sinks down and he feels Ziven's tongue and mouth he grunts and strokes Ziven's hair.

With one hand, Ziven reaches back to undo his long hair, tossing aside the wire coil blindly.  Then he lifts his head, licking down one side and up the other, lowering Garrett's pants move.  And then he opens wider and takes in more of the cock, sighing softly.

Garrett leans back a bit on the bed and grips the mattress with one hand, thrusting lightly into Ziven's mouth. Fuck he was getting close already just knowing what his lover could do to him. He gave a little cry as the hair flung around and Ziven took him in further.

Ziven eagerly takes in more, sucking eagerly.  Not rushing, but encouraging.  He loved the taste of Garrett.  Reaching up his body, he finds and caresses his face.

Garrett moans deeply and kisses at the hand, letting Ziven work his magic. He slides a hand down and caresses Ziven's back, neck and chest.

Ziven deep throats for a second or two.  Not enough to set o his gag reflex, but enough to make Garrett feel it.  His free hand begins to fondle the sacks.

Garrett shudders again and falls back at the deep throat, his hands gripping all the covers and twisting. The fondling is nice but it doesn't lessen or heighten it beyond his already very happy place.

Ziven is not trying to make his lover orgasm.  He is enjoying giving Garrett head, so he continues his play, making his own little happy noises as he pleases his lover.

Garrett just writhes and loves it all, feeling the happy slow teasing. Ziven's noises make him stiffen ever so slightly more if it's possible.

Ziven pulls his head off of Garrett for a second and then begins a deep head bob, sucking softly but taking him in and then lifting his head almost, but not quite off of him.  It is very rythmic and almost hypnotic.

This start Garrett down a definite path to getting off and he's soon grunting on each bob. He turns his head and bits at a handful of the bedding, sinking his teeth into it.

Ziven continues, judging his lovers reaction positively.  He places both of his hands on either side of Garrett's hips and continues exactly as he had been before.  Perhaps a touch more vigorously.

Garrett just loses it after about a minute of that shift without even time to warn Ziven. He cries out once as he releases and thrusts until it's done and he just falls back panting.

Ziven, at this point in his relationship with Garrett doesn't need a warning.  He swallows what he is given and finally lifts his head, climbing onto the bed a little bit and laying beside Garrett.  "Dessert.  Better than cake."  he pronounces.

Garrett can't help but chuckle "I love you...and you're too kind...and fuckin hot." He rolls to him and holds him.

Ziven holds him close.  "Nothing but truth for you, baby.  And I am ALL yours.  Mind, body and spirit."  he caresses his hair and looks at him.  "Sometimes I think you're a dream.  Like ... maybe I tripped and hit my head that day we had the cake and have been in a beautiful coma ever since."  he chuckles.

Garrett snuggles into him "If you're dreaming...so am I." He sighs and then kisses Ziven's neck sweetly, sliding his hand up and down Ziven's chest and just teasingly around the abdomen.

Ziven wraps his arm around Garrett.  "Then I guess we're both awake.  And loving it."  he glances down at the hand on his chest and sighs in contentment even as his cock twitches in anticipation.

Garrett keeps kissing at his neck and just starts lightly caressing his cock like he's tracing it slowly. His kisses slowly move down the chest but not too fast.

Ziven sighs and lays his head back onto the mattress, his long hair pooling all around him.  He watches Garrett and is calmed by watching him.  SO loving and caring.  All he ever wanted he had.

Garrett gently wraps his finger around Ziven's cock now, beginning to jack him. He means to go slow but the hardness gets him excited and he starts in a  little fast. He's kissing low enough so that  his face is beside his hand and he licks at the base of Ziven from the side to let him know where he is.

Ziven moans softly at not only the stroking but the lick.  "Oh baby ...."  he reaches to stroke at Garrett's hair and back.  He props himself up a little, watching.

The lick was a tease but now Garrett just goes for it and puts his mouth over the tip, still jacking and getting more intense. He remembers the humming trick and lets out a low moan that vibrates all around the tip of Ziven's cock.

Ziven is glad to see hos bold Garrett has become with him, as opposed to the beginning of their relationship.  I shows confidence and he loves seeing that in his lover.  The humming makes him cry out.  "Gar ... God, Gar ..." and his own hips lift, eagerly as if begging for more.
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Garrett knows where this is going and smiles as he offers more, as much as it takes, increasing his grip and speed ever so slightly as he keeps letting out low long moans.

Ziven is in ecstasy.  "Garret ....  I feel it .. yes ... yes ...."  and he doesn't even try to resist.  he begins to cum, throwing his head back and bucking his hips before collapsing, panting hard.  "Gar ...."

Garrett rides out the storm and then crawls up to lie down with him, wrapping his whole body around the man he loves and just being madly in love and fully connected. Sebastian who? Keiko who? There was only Ziven.

Ziven holds Garret with shaking arms.  This is his man.  Sure there had been others, but this one was the most special.  "I love you.  I ADORE you.  SO much."  he whispers, burying his face in Garrett's hair.

Personal Days - Garrett, Ziven, Jeff, Sean. Mark, Erica and sick kids

February 13th

Ziven had awakened that morning with every intention of working ... until he saw the date on the calendar.  February 13.  He considered for scant seconds; did he really want to spend his first Valentines Day with Garrett in Falcon Island with Charlotte?  As he considered it, he got on the phone still buck naked and called in two personal days.  In the last four years he had barely taken a sick day, never mind a personal day, so they OWED him.  Satisfied with his decision he showered, dressed and flew to the airport.  Upon landing a bit after noon, he took out hos phone and sent Garrett a text message.

"SURPRISE!  Guess who decided NOT to spend VDay giving a falcon a check-up.   On my way to you now."

He sets his phone in its stand in his truck and starts the engine, pointing the vehicle towards Cedar Point.

Jeff Russell drives to his daughter's daycare and picks up a miserable snotty wailing Maisy Mouse. He's managed to get the afternoon off to take her home after the daycare called twice. Clearly she was really sick. As soon as she sees him she cries even harder and he has to wrestle her into the car seat kicking and screaming. "Oh baby, you need your bed.....I know you hate this right now......" Maisy writhes and slaps him in the face in her fury and then bites at his hand as he blocks the next one coming "Maisy....no..." he says firmly and clips her in. Thankfully he had changed her and given her a dose of children's Tylenol before he had to negotiate this fight. He started driving and she screamed and screamed, like she was being tortured. Jeff winced and tried to sing but she drowned him out. In desperation he clicked on the radio and just blasted it. Like a charm she was out cold in two blocks, sleeping like an angel, minus the congested snuffly snore. Jeff deflated and drove through Starbucks for a coffee and then proceeded to drive around to make sure she was really really down. Once she was, she could usually sleep through anything so he used his blue tooth set up to make a call to Ziven.

"Call Ziven." He commanded and the phone complied. It started to ring.

Ziven is heading towards Cedar Point at a decent clip, but its still a decent distance away.  His phone rings and he looks at it.  Jeff is calling.  He had set his phone to speaker and so only touches the answer button.  "Hey man, how you doing?"  he sounds chipper for a Monday.

Jeff groans "Driving with a sick kid, but she's down...oh man. But I gotta tell you about something before I forget. So your old....flame....is playing in your town Easter weekend. Erica just got me tickets for my birthday, well us tickets, so we're going. It's sort of a heads up and warning I guess. It's a ticketed show so you won't end up accidentally in the bar unless you buy one, but maybe we could grab dinner in town with you and Garrett first regardless. Erica's asking her mom and Hank, for a whole night of kid watching. Woo hoo!"

Ziven winces.  "Ohh the poor baby, whichever one it is."  he is sympathetic as he slows down for a red light and Jeff keeps talking.  His old ... flame ... could only be one man.  One person who sold tickets for any reason at all.  His jaw tightens so hard it becomes painful and his grip on the steering wheel is white knuckle.  But he closes his eyes and takes in a deep breath.  "Dinner sounds nice.  Maybe the Mariner?  They have great food.  Or the sushi place?"  which is even further away from the bar.  "Or the Chinese place is also nice."  and it is even FURTHER away from the bar.  Behind him a car honks impatiently and Ziven drives on, murmuring.  "Ass hole."  then he pauses.  "You're still a fan of Sebastian's?"  he asks, trying not to sound bitter.  "I guess he released another album?"

Jeff senses from Ziven's voice that this is still a major sensitive subject "It's Maisy. And he's done some solo stuff now. I did pick up the albums and so Erica surprised em with tickets....I probably wouldn't have bought them for myself, truth be told after what he pulled on you, but I didn't get into that over a gift, and we rarely get a night out together so what am I gonna say no?" He laughs awkwardly. Maybe he should have just let Ziven see a poster......

Ziven continues driving.  "No .. it's all good.  You liked his music before.  And he didn't do anything to YOU, so .. just."  he sighs and shakes his head.  "I know ... Phoenix .. which I didn't buy .. rising from the ashes my left fucking foot!  But man Red Bird?  Seriously?  You KNOW my name can mean Red Bird ... right?"  he sighs.  "But ... I haven't seen anything about a new album, but of course I left his Facebook friends everything while he was probably still on his way to the airport."

Jeff clears his throat and sheepishly offers "Uh well there's a..... newer one Card...inal....another...... type of......red...bird...." Jeff is feeling more and more like this whole thing was a terrible idea and tries to redirect "So Chinese eh? No MSG? Erica get a little freaky about the MSG....you know...." Somehow being mildly smacked around by a toddler seems relaxing.

Ziven sighs deeply.  "Cardinal."  his voice is wooden.  "Well isn't that just ducky?"  he blows out another breath.  "How clueless is ....." and he cuts himself off.  Jeff had been there.  The first person he'd called when Sebastian had left him.  Jeff had come over to find Ziven in a rare state of weak, crying drunkenness.  The apartment he and Sebastian shared utterly and irrevocably destroyed.  It was Jeff who almost literally picked Ziven up and took him to the airport and his trailer until he was in condition to fly back to Falcon Island and work again.  Basically Jeff who saved Ziven's life when Sebastian had suddenly and effectively abandoned him.  And Jeff who had watched ever since as Ziven buried himself in work.  He takes a long and calming breath.  "MSG is like a legal drug, man.  It's like .. everything is better with MSG.  You should use it instead of whipped cream in bed.  I adore your wife but ...."  he forces a grin into his voice.  "For her ...  Japanese.  Because Garrett will probably be working and watching him at work will give a man a hard on."  he tries to get himself back together.

Jeff grimaces and then can't help but laugh "Now I'm not sure who you're trying to get off, me or Erica, or Garrett. I'll try not to think about any of that too much and say yes to Japanese food....and Ziven, I'm sorry. I thought it might be easier to hear it from a friend than see a poster in town...I hope I made the right choice." He pulls into his driveway and puts his car in park and then takes a small sip of his coffee, a slight slurp being audible among toddler snot nosed snores.

Ziven laughs.  "All of the above."  he proclaims.  "If I ever have an orgy where I am SOBER I want you three in it!"  he laughs as he enters Cedar Point.  "I'm glad you warned me.  Thank you.  Really.  I'll be making DAMN sure I am in my office.  Maybe neutering a whiny little mastiff while the concert is going on.  Then at least I can remember Sebby as fondly as possible."  he snorts and listens.  "What is that noise?  Sounds like a Newfoundland snoring?"

Jeff laughs "I'll warn Erica you plan to spray us all down with MSG to get that started. And no it's my daughter......no one tells you how animalistic they can be right? She smacked me and tried to bite me half an hour ago. Who needs kickboxing when you have little girls to beat you up?." He takes another long sip of the coffee "I might be going for round two as I try to get her into the house..."

Ziven winces.  "Damn ... just .... damn.   And yea ... kids are like wild animals, or they CAN be.  Especially when you try and give them medicine.  Me?  I can send a patient a pill to hide in a treat two hours before I see them.  Or just use the handy dandy tranq gun."  he pauses.  "Oh ... yea ... well .. look at the time."  he suddenly says.  "I'd love to listen to all the carnage but I am heading for Garrett's to surprise him for Valentines Day ... which ... with the kid or kids sick ... sounds like you and Erica will have to find fun in the pharmacy..."

Jeff sighs "That tranq gun has definite appeal..." He laughs "Ok you guys have fun...and we'll have...something...hopefully. Cheers Ziven."

Garrett had left his car to go back in, eaten his offering of cheese and jogged up to his room. Leaving his phone on the bed, he didn't hear the text come in over the music. Garrett had popped on the album Cardinal by Sebastian Knight and found himself soon singing along. He was packing up but more than just for an overnight, intending to actually leave some stuff at Ziven's now and consider that conversation he brought up with Izumi about the two of them moving in together. He needed a spare phone cord and was pretty sure he had thrown one into a random box that ended up in the closet. So now he was rotting through trying to find it and wishing he was more organized.

Ziven laughs.  I have one in the back of my truck because ...  who doesn't?"  he smiles.  "Good luck, man and cheers."  and he taps out of the call.  A few minutes later he is at Garrett's.  He finds a place to park and sees Garrett's car, so he is definitely home.  Looking at his face in the rear view, he decides he looks fine.  Plucking his phone out of the holder, he pockets it and gets out of the car, walking to the door and ringing the bell.  Through the door he hears music.  A song he doesn't know, but a voice he does.  Sebastian.  It was like being smacked in the face, but he keeps his face neutral.  Garrett mentioned his roommates weren't working on all cylinders.
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Sean McGee saunters up to the door, his overalls now flipped down and hanging, almost in danger of sliding off him. He's holding a 2 litre of milk like he's been drinking from the carton and looks at Ziven like he might be a salesman "Yeah?" Ziven and Garrett had come and gone a bit but Sean is sometimes less than observant when it's not a cute girl in tow or on face time.

Mark on the other hand, quietly noticed everything and was in the background with a big grin and a double mime wave followed by the motion of releasing balloons to the heavens. This was a home that might be truly easier to comprehend if a visitor was simply stoned.

Garrett didn't hear the bell and was up in his room yanking out old boxes as the new one had fallen behind. He sang along with a song called Heart's Migration "Fly...back to me....our song still plays...the air is free....."

Ziven is dead cold sober, but wishes he wasn't as he looks at Sean and then, beyond him, Mark.  The music is making the air move, or so it feels like.  "Where's Garrett?"  he addresses Sean as an underling, but lifts his hand to Mark, even though no smile in in evidence.  Of the two roommates, Mark is the nicest ... sadly.  He lets his eyes raise to the ceiling as he walks in, brushing past Sean.  He can hear where Garrett is now and the words truly hit him.  As if Sebastian Knight is singling to him .. and Ziven knows ... he is.

Sean just shrugs and takes another sip from the milk carton and then walks into the living room and clicks on the TV.

Mark watches Ziven go by timidly and doesn't interfere. On the table beside him is an open jar of pickles and a giant block of cheddar cheese.

Garrett's door is open since he's dressed and his roommates were presumably still downstairs Not expecting Ziven, he starts a little as he notices him in the hallway and then beams "Hey!" He turns down the music and walks up to him arms open "You're not at work? Is everything OK?" He face is moving in for a kiss hello.

Ziven ignores both roommates and marches upstairs.  Garrett turns the music down before Ziven can march in and smash the stereo.  He takes Garrett into his arms and kisses him deeply, basking himself in the love he has now.  "I woke up this morning and decided that I needed to spend Valentines Day with the man I love."  he can still hear Sebastian and focus on Garrett.  "I sent you a text.  You din't get it?"

Garrett gets caught in the passion of the kiss and melts into it, kissing back hard and then distractedly answering with a grin "Aww, thank you." He looks back at the bed and his phone "Shit, I missed it..." He pulls Ziven with him into the room and picks up the phone with a look of over exaggerated dawning "Oh THIS text...." He drops the phone again "Sorry. It's an interesting coincidence, because I was gonna come crash at your place tonight anyways. Sean was a total ass earlier and I don't feel like looking at him or hearing him for awhile. Been one of THOSE days..." He says laughing.

Ziven smiles as Garrett looks at his phone and casually moves over to the CD player and turns it off.  "What did Sean say?"  he moves over and puts his arms around Garrett again.  "You can stay at my place.  You have a key already."  he shrugs as if its nothing.  "It's not so much my place as OURS, baby.  You know that, right?"

Garrett smiles and sighs "It's funny you should say that..." He takes Ziven by one hand and leads him to sit on the bed instead and then thinks for a second and walks to close the door "I'm kinda reaching my last straw with Sean right now." He sits down too and takes Ziven's hand again. The bag on the bed is a suitcase, not an overnight bag. "I was on a face time call with my old friend Izumi. You'll meet her at Easter, she's already looking forward to it. Yuki's daughter. We all grew up together, anyway. I put my phone down because Sean handed me a piece of mail and he picked it up and started hitting on Izumi, like a pig. She shot him down but then  he called her a cock blocker.....so I told him I'd cock block him less politely and cracked a joke that I'm all about the cock. Now if a friend said it, I'd laugh, but he could be a bit of a homophobe for all I know. He's a hard read. It just felt like a shot, not a joke. I needed up talking to Izumi in my car I was so pissed. She told me to move out...I told her....well i told her I actually kinda want to move in with you..." He looks at the suitcase "Like as soon as I can sublet this room...really...if you'll have me."

Ziven sits and listens, his eyebrows lifting.  Now that the music was off, he can calm and not go off on Sean.  He isn't pleased, but his anger always ebbs in Garrett's arms.  "I like Izumi."  he smiles and looks at the suitcase and back at Garrett.  "You want to move in with me?"  he grins.  "About damn time."  he smiles. "I will have you .....  if you ca deal with me not being home most of the time."  he sighs.  "I do still work at the Island."  he sighs, considering, his eyes drifting as he wonders at a few things.

Garrett nods, looking lovingly at Ziven " I knew the deal when we got involved. No complaints. Plus you have to deal with me working pretty much every night. And I didn't know you wouldn't have Valentines off so I didn't book it... but we're closed Mondays so we could make tonight our Valentines? After I sort through enough crap to find my back up phone charge cord..." He kisses Ziven " I love you and I want to live with you and make a life with you."

Ziven smiles.  "It's alright.  I will wait for you to come home, but yes .. tonight will be our Valentines Day.  Let me help you pack."  he kisses him back, passionately.  "I love you too and yes ... lets make that life together."  he smiles.  "Let's pack it all .. even your mail you got."  he laughs, almost giddy about it.

Garrett beams "Oh that's actually kinda your present but packing first... no pun intended... " he snickers and gets up, moving to the closet again and digging for that stupid box "I promise to sort and declutter before I move in... god..." He tosses a random box on the bed that's in the way. On the side facing away from Garrett it's labelled "Keiko" with a circle around her name and a line through it.

Ziven looks intrigued at the word present, but doesn't make too much out of it.  When Garrett puts the box labeled "Keiko" on the bed, Ziven reaches for it.  "Keiko?"  his hand rests on it, unsure if he should go through it or respect Garrett's privacy.

Garrett winces "Oh shit..you can look if you want but that was not intentional. Keiko is my ex wife...It's probably our divorce papers as well as wedding pictures. I didn't toss them because they're also some of the last family pictures with my grandparents...."

Ziven nods and pulls the box closer.  "Oh, I was afraid you had a thing for Kieko O'Brian from Deep Space Nine and I'd need to plan an intervention."  he teases and begins to go through the box, carefully separating any legal looking papers and photographs.  Near the bottom, he sees something metal and pulls out a wedding band.  It looks like a mans band, being thicker than a womans band would be.  He considers a moment, setting it on his side of the box.  Would it still fit Garrett?  Had his hand sized changed?  This was a chance to get Garrett's ring size on the sly.  But then he sees a wedding picture.  "So this is you, huh?"  he holds the picture out.

Garrett looks at the picture and laughs. He's a little younger and slimmer "Yep...oh man... no Keiko O'Brian's. But she's kept my last name so there's still a Keiko Yamada. I have no idea why since she was clear on my being a terrible husband." In the picture Garrett looks like he's hamming it up with his siblings beside him. Ryan as a young teen is clearly cracking up and so is Stephanie. Keiko looks very traditional and her expression is one of severity. Hiro and Sakura are smiling and leaning in with a sweet older couple who look more related to Hiro. Keiko's parents are obvious and behind her looking just as serious.

Ziven looks at the photo again.  "I can't tell, so you must be still the same size now, huh?"  he looks at him.  "Why did you get married again?  And didn't you two meet online?"  he tries to remember and coax all at the same time.

Garrett snorts "Flattery will get you everywhere. I was in a thinner phase but  I kinda yoyo'd when I was younger. He digs and sees the ring and tries to slide it on to prove his point and it doesn't go over the knuckle " I think this was a 9 but I had to butter it to take it off in the end. Stress eating. Although I'm probably two sizes bigger still... and we never need to talk pants sizes.." He laughs but it's clearly a sore spot. He chucks the ring back in and walks away from it like it's toxic to him and then opens another box and says "Aha... there it is..."

Ziven laughs, casually.  "Noted.  No talking waist sizes."  he watches the ring go back in the box making a mental note of this part of the conversation in particular.  He gathers up the pictures and legal papers and sets it aside, closing up the Kieko box forever.  Then he turns.  "There's what?"  he asks.  "Your cummerbund?"  he teases.

Garrett mock glares "You're lucky it's not or I'd have to gag you with it now. I found my phone cord. So one last check on the suitcase and we can run away. What do you want to do for supper? Should we stop for groceries on the way back..." He licks his lips and then adds "home?"

Ziven comes to him and takes him in his arms.  "Don't gag me.  I won't be able to tell you how much I love you."  he teases,  but he looks like he isn't interested.  "How about you make a list and while you work tomorrow, I do the shopping for you?"  he offers.  He watches how he says home and his smile only widens.  "Oh, don't forget my present.  Don't make me pout."  he grins.  "And we can get these boxes between our vehicles?"

Garrett smiles at Ziven in a melting kind of way and says "No gags. I love you too. Do you want your present now? Because your pout is making me sad...."
He slides his arms around Ziven too but sort of waltzes them to the dresser where he left the envelope and reaches one hand to grab it.

Ziven nods and waltzes to the envelope.  He looks at it.  "Damn right I want my present.  And if its sex I want to do it loud an proud for Sean to hear."  he reaches for the envelope.  "What might this be?"  he wonders, as he opens it to see for himself.

Garrett laughs "Don't tempt me. It's music. I dunno if you've heard of this guy but I've been a fan forever. He had a band before but now it's just him. And he sings about birds... I know what your name means. Sappy, I know, but it makes me think of you. It was playing when you came in." He's waiting for a reaction.

Ziven sees the tickets and stares.  In his mind he is using every trick he has ever learned not to show shock or dismay.  To stay professionally calm.  But he cannot believe this.  Two tickets to Sebastian Knights concert.  In Cedar Point.  The very one Jeff was just telling him about.  His stomach begins to knot, but he knows he has to say SOMETHING to his lover.  "I know the guy."  he admits, knowing Garrett will assume he is a fan.  "Well before he went solo."  he pauses.  "Yea."  he inhales and turns, reaching for Garrett and pulling him into a tight embrace.  "I love you, Garrett.  I love you SO FUCKING MUCH!"  he says into Garrett's shoulder.  He knows Garrett will assume a different meaning.  And he knows he will go to the concert with him, even tough he would rather eat ground glass.  Because Garrett is the man he loves and Garrett would never abandon him.  Let Garrett think that he is overcome with joy and love.  He'll be half right.

Garrett hugs him back hard "Oh...baby. I love you too. What a reaction!" He laughs into Ziven's hair "And here I almost chose a Taiko drum show, worried I was imposing my music on you... sometimes the universe knows eh? Happy Valentines Day Ziven. You are the absolute love of my life."

Ziven puts boxes in the back of his truck and tells Garrett he'll pick up pizza on the way.  That way Garrett will have some time to unpack some of his things and settle in before Ziven gets there.  In their separate vehicles Ziven watches Garrett pull off, then goes into his glove compartment, pulling out his car charger and plugging it in.  He gets his phone and sends a text to Jeff.

"MUST talk!  Urgent!  PLEASE PLEASE CALL!"

He plugs the charger into his phone and sets it in the holder.  Then he starts the engine and pulls away from the curb, praying Jeff isn't so up to his elbows in sick child he can't call him back before he gets home.

Jeff has miraculously gotten Maisy to transfer into the house sick and stay asleep. She clearly just needed the rest. He put on the monitor and took the portable with him to the office and fired up Uncharted 4 with only a little bit of guilt. He was off work with a sick kid and she needed rest......and bad ass, bat at retiring from treasure hunting Nathan Drake had an archaeology mystery to solve while dodging bullets in an ancient temple in the Scottish Highlands. Jeff was quickly drawn in and then his phone pinged and he checked it with a casual glance and paused the game. Ziven again. He swiveled on his chair and called him and listened to the ring tone while absently looking at his paused screen. The graphics in this game were amazing.

Ziven is relieved when his phone rings shortly before he pulls away from the curb.  He taps at it.  "Garrett got me a Valentines present."  is voice is shaking.  "And its fucking with my mind."  he gives a shaky laugh, nervous and almost upset.  Like it was a dogs head or something.

Jeff looks intrigued "You met a guy who fucks with YOUR mind? Dammit I'm calling Guinness......did he propose or something?"

Ziven tries to laugh.  He really does.  But instead hie voice comes out in a borderline sob.  "Two tickets to Sebastian Knight's concert in Cedar Point."  he makes the same almost wounded noise.  "And I hugged him and told him I love him because I do, but I would rather be locked in my office with a pack of rabid Yorkies."  he begins to ramble.

Jeff's eyes go wide and then he sighs loudly "Oh my god. He doesn't know? Ziven....I think you need to tell him..."

Ziven blinks and a tear escaped.  "No .. he doesn't know.  I said something like I knew the guy like I knew OF him, not like I spend four years balls deep in the man and so deep in what turned out to be one sided love I almost drowned when it ended.  He doesn't know I tried to drink myself to death the night he told me he was going to Montreal.  No, Jeff, I'm afraid I haven't mentioned any of that to Garrett yet.  I never thought it would come up ...."

Jeff nods "Well now it has. I'm sorry. If this Garrett guy is everything you say he is...then he'll be there for you. I mean everyone has a past right. I'm sure he does too. This is a part of you Ziven. I mean Garrett might even offer to sell the tickets if he knows how much this hurts you."

For a minute, Ziven simply cries.  And then he pulls himself together.  "Garret .... has self esteem problems, Jeff."  he explains.  "I love him as he is, which isn't even chubby, but .... oh God ... what is his self esteem going to do when he sees Sebastian?  And ... I heard one of the songs on Cardinal.  Jeff ... I don't mean to sound arrogant but ... he's aiming that shit at ME!"  he blows out a breath.  "I'll have to strangle his ass.  That's all there is to it.  There's no death penalty in Canada ... and I might get away with it clear."

Jeff can hear Ziven crying and gets more concerned "Hey man, pull over OK......don't drive like this, please. It's slippery out."

Ziven sighs and pulls over in the gas station near the very building the Black Hole is in and sighs deeply.  And then he takes in a deep and calming breath.  "No matter what.  I will NOT let Sebastian fucking Knight destroy the man I love."  he growls.  "It's bad enough I have to confess I used to sleep with the bastard.  But Jeff ....  I really don't think Garrett will take this well.  He's been a fan since the beginning ...."  he swallows and can be hears blowing his nose and getting out of his truck.

Jeff is immensely relieved hearing the nose blowing and door open and close. His friend is safe, still upset, but safe. "OK being a fan of a rock star is not the same as being in love with a partner. If I had a chance to meet U2 and Bono flipped off Erica, I'd punch the guy in the face. He's not going to choose Sebastian's music...over you. Think about it."

Ziven walks into the pizza joint and his tone seems to change, as if he's in his office.  "I'm worried about the exact OPPOSITE, man."  he says waiting behind one person.  He's ordered by text message before he and Garrett had packed up the truck.  The person in front of him is making a complicated order involving shrimp, pineapple and anchovies.  He waits a second and then moves to the clerk.  "I texted ahead.  Garbage for Ayala."  she clerk nods, looking relieved.  Ziven taps his card and takes the pizza outside.  "He's going to think I am going to choose Sebastian because he's fit and built and a singer ...  Jeff ... I don't want Garrett to stop liking the music if he is truly a fan.  But Sebastian ... he can get nasty.  And jealous."

Jeff gets it. He had seen a hint of that but not the whole thing "Well you have two choices. Warn Garrett when you tell him. Actually I think you should tell him regardless. And you could....try and head Sebastian off at the pass before they ever meet. You'd have to talk to him though..."

Ziven gets back in his truck.  "I know I have to tell him ... and then warn him."  he pinches the bridge of his nose.  "That means calling him.  Or going to see him."  he pauses.  "I mentioned the rabid Yorkies?  Chihuahuas ... make them Chihuahuas."

Jeff tries to lighten it with a joke "You could take a cage of them with you....as insurance..." His smile can be heard through the words.

Ziven blows out a breath.  "Part of me wants to just go to the concert and let him see me with Garrett but .... maybe that's the answer. I know what Sebastian would do.  Maybe I can turn the tables on him before he hurts my mans psyche too much."  he starts the truck and drives carefully away.

Jeff just listens and thinks it over "At least you won't be alone. Erica and I will be there too. God if I tell her what's going on she'll want to boycott the whole concert...but now I want to go...for you...and Garrett. Good luck tonight if you tell him."

Ziven nods.  "Good.  I need you there."  he explains.  "For moral support.  For what I was the day Sebastian left me ... and to hold me back if you have to."

Jeff laughs "Good thing I'm coming with Erica....Ziven it will be OK. However it happens.Why don't you and Garrett come over for dinner BEFORE all this? Once this sickness is out of our house. So at least he knows US too? Does he like kids?"

Ziven begins to relax a bit.  "I'll tell him.  But not tonight.  It would ruin his Valentines day.  This weekend.  And dinner sounds incredible.  Garrett is good with kids.  He has a 10 year old nephew and a little baby niece not even a month old."  he grins, remembering watching him hold little Jayla.  "And yes, please, after the plague is lifted from your home."

Jeff grins "I'll keep you posted and do the same for me ok? It'll be OK. Just trust. I should go...cause Maisy kept sleeping and I called Erica in a panic before, now I'm sitting here with a video game on when she comes home....know what I'm saying? Slacker dad of the year."

Ziven nods and finally laughs.  "Oh yea .... so you don't want her coming home and seeing you playing while your daughter, according to her no doubt, is dying in the next room.  Gotcha."  he grins.  "I'm almost home.  I'll let you know how it all goes in the next week or so man.  Kiss Ericka for me but only wave to Maisy from the doorway."

Jeff laughs "Will do man. Take care." He clicks off and swivels his chair again to see Erica standing in the doorway looking stressed and a mess. His eyes go wide "Honey?"

Erica scoffs "Oh sure, you get the sleeping child and a break. I just picked up Penny and she coughed so much she puked all over the car......don't touch me.....just get some towels and come to the driveway. It's like the fucking exorcist out there...."