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shelter_diner2011-12-19 03:38 pm
axeldog76.livejournal.com) wrote in shelter_diner2011-12-19 03:38 pm
Entry tags:
Fic: Christmas with the Family
Title: Christmas With Shaun's Family
Author: Axeldog76
Rating: PG 13
Spoilers: None
Summary: Shaun Zach and Cody spend Christmas at Laguna Beach with Larry Virginia and Gabe.
I didn't really reserve a prompt but here is my submission anyway!
“Are you sure you’re OK with this, Zach?” Shaun repeated about six times on the drive home. He was having huge doubts about this whole thing, and he wanted Zach to tell him it was alright to turn around and head back home. His mom had talked him into this:
“Shaun, that little boy deserves a great Christmas, after the year he’s had. Bring him home this year. We’ll have a huge tree, and lots of presents. I’d really like to get reacquainted with Zach, honey. And I’d like to get to know Cody. They are important in your life and that makes them important to me.” His mom argued.
He didn’t say yes right away. He actually thought about it for a week before he even told Zach about the conversation. “It sounds like she really wants us to come. She wants to see you again and she wants to get to know Cody.” He explained.
“It would be nice to spend Christmas there…” Zach said. “I can go check on dad, and see Tori too. But, what about you and Larry?” He asked taking the older man’s hand in his.
“She says he’s excited about having “the family” all together for Christmas. So, I should call her and tell her we’ll be there?” Shaun said. “Let’s plan on getting there on the 23rd. We can wait until we get there to do our shopping so we don’t have to carry all of Cody’s presents down there. Mom will watch Cody for us, I’m sure.”
“Cool, I’ll call the coffee shop and request the time off. Dave won’t have any problem with me being gone then. He’s good about family stuff, besides with the school closed it gets pretty slow there.” He gave Shaun a peck on the cheek and went to find his cell phone.
They pulled into the driveway at the beach house and parked. Zach unbuckled his seat belt and Shaun sat there staring at the house. “The last Christmas I was here, I had a fight with Larry, and took off. I think I ruined it for everyone.” He said. Zach grabbed his hand and squeezed it.
“I’m sure they aren’t even thinking about that Shaun.” Zach assured him. “Relax, I’ll protect ya from the big bully!” He laughed and kissed him on the cheek, and dove over the seat to wake Cody up. The little boy had talked non-stop for about half the trip home and after wearing himself out he fell asleep. “Codes…. We’re here.” Zach shook him gently and talked low.
“Did Santa come yet?” He said trying to wake up. He stretched and squirmed in his car seat.
“No Cody it’s only the 23rd Santa comes on Christmas Eve, remember?” He laughed and picked the boy up, helping him out of the car.
Shaun took a deep breath, stepped out of the car and started pulling luggage from the trunk.
“Hey ladies!” Gabe shouted as he bounded from the house. He hugged each of them in turn and picked Cody up to carry him to the house while the guys brought in the luggage.
Larry came out shook hands and grabbed a bag before heading back in too. They managed to get the luggage into “their room” which was the room Shaun always used when he came home.
“Let’s just stay up here” Shaun groaned dropping onto the bed and pulling Zach down onto the bed next to him.
“Come on, dude, we’ll go make nice and sneak off later on to do some shopping. I only have a couple things packed away in the luggage for you guys at this point.” He really didn’t move though. It was nice being back here. He had fallen in love here, so it was special to him. He rolled over on top of Shaun and ran his fingers lightly through his hair. “This is where I knew I loved you” He whispered.
“Ah, because of my sexual prowess.” Shaun boasted.
Zach chuckled lightly. “Because of your beautiful soul.” He said and kissed him. “But, the sex did help.” He laughed, and slid off the older man. “Gimme your hand, let’s go say hi and relax a bit before we go shopping.”
They made their way downstairs and into the kitchen, where everyone was gathered. Cody was telling them all what he had asked Santa for this year. “And I want some new matchbox cars, and a game boy.” He finished.
“Well, have you been good this year?” Larry asked him.
“Yeah, I always go to bed good, and I clean my room when Shaun and Zach make me. I ‘been real good.” He answered.
“That’s a lot of stuff, Codes.” Gabe said, “You think Santa can get it all in his sleigh?”
“Santa doesn’t get me everything.” He explained. “Adults get me some of the stuff. Santa just gets me the good stuff.” They all laughed.
“OK, Cody, why don’t you see what’s on TV and let the adults talk awhile.” Zach directed. Cody scampered off and Larry followed, to help him find something to watch.
“I’m so glad you decided to come home.” Virginia said to Shaun, she kissed him on the cheek and gave him a hug. She stepped over to Zach. And I’m glad you’re here too, Zach!” She smiled and kissed him too. “We’re going to have a beautiful Christmas this year. I think we’ll trim the tree tonight and drink eggnog.” She added.
“Mom, can I ask you to watch Cody this evening for a few hours?” Shaun asked. “We haven’t bought any presents yet. Didn’t want to have to carry them here from L.A.”
“Do you think he’ll stay with us?” She asked doubtfully. “He barely knows us.”
“We’ll stick around here for a while until he’s comfortable, besides he knows the house. We stayed here while we were packing to move to L.A. Uncle Gabe will be here too, isn’t that right Uncle Gabe!”
“I have no plans until about 11. I have a party to go to then.”
“We’ll be back way before then.” Zach added. “I think we’ll need a lot of beauty sleep tonight.” He said with a laugh.
“Sounds like you might be getting coal this year, son,” Larry said walking back into the kitchen. “If that comment is any indication!” He was smiling.
“He is always the perfect gentleman.” Zach said, defending Shaun, and kissing him on the cheek. Shaun blushed.
Virginia laughed. “I’m glad we’ll be on the other end of the house! We won’t be kept awake by your acrobatics!”
“Mom!” Shaun said. He couldn’t say any more.
They all laughed.
“I never thought I’d see you blush, my boy.” Larry said.
“I never thought you would all gang up on me like this!” He said. They laughed again. “What’s this about decorating the tree?” He changed the subject.
“Ok,” His mother said still smiling. “We’ll stop! If you boys want to go and bring down the boxes, we can get started. I already have the eggnog made.”
“Drink the eggnog slowly, Zach.” Gabe whispered as they made their way to the storage room for the boxes of Christmas ornaments. “It’s good, but it’s pretty potent.”
Shaun laughed. “She likes a lot of cheer in her nog.” He handed down boxes of decorations and they made their way back down to the family room. The tree was already there. It was delivered that morning and set in place. They decorated and drank eggnog, and caught up on things.
“Cody, we need to go out for a couple hours, you gonna be alright here with Uncle Gabe and Virginia and Larry?” Shaun asked the boy a couple hours later.
“Sure,” he said not taking his eyes off the Christmas show he was watching with Gabe. They were sharing a bowl of popcorn.
“This is my favorite part, Codes,” Gabe said nudging him.
“OK we’ll be back in a little while” Zach added.
“Take your time.” Gabe said distractedly as he too watched the Christmas show and munched popcorn.
“He’s like a big kid.” Shaun thought. They set off for the stores with a list and finished quickly. Virginia had given them a list for the grocery store too. “We’ll need a few extra things for all you hungry boys.” She said as she handed the list to Shaun. They hit the grocery store on the way home.
“I got everything on the list plus a few extra things, mom.” He said as he dumped a few bags on the kitchen counter. Zach came in carrying several more bags.
“This is the last of it. He said. What can we do with the other stuff out there?” Zach whispered.
“Let’s get Cody to bed and then we can take them up to our room to wrap them.”
Chapter Two
The next morning they readied themselves to go visit Zach’s dad. Zach had talked to his dad about Shaun and their new life together. But they had yet to both go visit him. Zach thought that the morning would be the best time to visit. His dad was less medicated in the mornings.
They took a fruit basket for Carol, and Zach got his dad some new slippers and a robe. (Carol’s idea). When they arrived he was watching TV and Carol making a pot of coffee.
“Hi, Dad.” Zach started. “How are you feeling?” He asked.
“Ok, the meds don’t seem to help as much as they used to.” He said. This was his usual response to that question.
“Hi Poppy!” Cody said and gave his grandpa a hug.
“Hey Cody, How do you like your new place?” He asked the boy.
“I have my own room, and I have a TV in it.’ He responded. “I want a puppy but Shaun says I need to be responsible before I can get a puppy.”
Warren looked at Cody and then looked at Shaun for the first time. “Well, I think He’s right. You have to learn to be responsible so you can take care of it. Puppies are fun but they can’t take care of themselves.”
“That’s what Shaun said.” Cody responded and ran into the kitchen to talk to Carol.
Shaun held out his hand to Warren and said “Nice to see you again, sir.”
Warren looked at him for a moment before he took his hand.
“We brought a couple things, dad.” Zach tried to change the mood. “Got you a couple presents and a little something for Carol.” He indicated the packages they had brought in.
Carol entered the room “Can I get you some coffee?” she asked. “I hope you don’t mind, Cody is having some cookies and milk at the table.
Zach looked at Shaun who nodded slightly. “Coffee would be nice. Black for both of us.”
“Do you mind if I give you a hand?” Shaun asked. She nodded, and glanced at Warren. They left the room.
“So, that’s the fella you are living with.” It was a statement not a question.
“Yeah… I’m happy dad. He really cares about me and about Cody.” Zach answered, sitting down next to his dad. “Not a lot of people would have taken in a guy and a kid at the same time. He is really great. And Cody loves him as much as I do.” He looked at his hands while he talked, not daring to look at is dad. “I know this isn’t how you thought things were supposed to turn out for me, but, honestly I’ve never been more happy in my life.”
“Well, you know my views on this sort of thing.” His dad countered. “I can’t change my mind overnight. This will take time.”
“Will you try, dad? I really love him, and I don’t want to lose you. Jeannie isn’t too happy about this either.”
“I’ll try.” He said as Carol and Shaun came in with coffee. Shaun handed a cup to Zach and looked at him inquiringly. He gave a slight nod and a quick smile.
After spending a little more time with his dad, they met Tori for lunch at the Shack. She was seeing a new guy. Danny was his name.
“I’m so glad you called me!” She said giving Zach a hug. “I’ve told Danny all about you. I’ve really wanted you to meet him. I’m glad he’s a bit late though. It gives us a chance to talk.” She took his hand and guided him outside, while Shaun and Cody got a table for the five of them. “I’m sorry I haven’t texted you in a while.” She started. “When I met Danny, Things seemed to have sped up. There was never time to do anything but be with him.”
“It’s OK.” Zach reassured her. “The last few weeks I’ve been swamped at school anyway. So you really like him, huh?”
“We’re talking about moving in together.” She said with a smile. “He is the best guy I know, apart from you, and well, you’re kind of taken now.” She laughed.
“It’s been what, two months since you started going out? You think that’s long enough?”
“Well, we’re waiting until after the holidays to start seriously thinking about it.”
“If he is all you talk him up to be, then I’m happy for you.” Zach said.
“How are things with you?’ She asked.
“I am the happiest guy in the world.” He blushed. I love school, and Cody is doing great in Preschool, and Shaun, what can I say? He is my soul-mate.” He said. Tori giggled. “I’m serious, I don’t know where my life would be now without him. He saved my life. He’s my hero. I just hope I am good enough for him”
Tori hugged him again. “I’m glad you’re happy. Don’t worry, I wasn’t lying when I said you were the best guy I know. I just hope he deserves you.” She said. “We should get back inside I think.”
Danny was a great guy and he seemed to really care about Tori. He had a good job and was very attentive to her. He was polite when he was introduced and seemed to fit in nicely during their meal.
They talked about the morning on the way back to Laguna Beach. Zach told Shaun what he and his dad talked about and what he talked about with Tori. “I think He’ll be OK.” Zach said of his father.
Chapter three
Christmas Eve always included a party at the beach house. Larry’s business cronies as well as Virginia’s club friends. Gabe usually invited a few people and Shaun did likewise. Shaun’s publisher was there, as well as Tori and Danny, among other friends of Shaun’s.
“Zach, I want you to meet someone.” He said taking the younger man by the hand and leading him over toward a couple standing a short distance away. “This is Jerry, my publisher, and his wife Sandra.” He said. Zach offered his hand.
“It’s nice to meet you.” He said. “I’ve heard a lot about you.” He directed the last remark to Jerry.
“I’ve heard a lot about you too.” He responded, “Shaun tells me you are attending CalArts. We use students as illustrators all the time. Do you have a portfolio you could bring to my office after the holidays? We might be able to throw a little work your way.”
“Wow, that would be great. Should I call you when we get back to Valencia to set up a time?” Zach was stunned. He tightened his grip on Shaun’s hand, involuntarily.
“Shaun has my number.” He said and he and his wife walked off.
“Ouch, you can loosen the grip there cowboy.” Shaun joked.
“Oh my god Shaun, can you believe that? Illustrating a book or even doing a cover for a book. That would be awesome!” Zach was thrilled, he threw his arms around Shaun’s neck and kissed him. “What did you tell him about me?”
“Only that you are great at what you do.” He kissed his cheek. “Come on, let’s find a dark corner and disappear for a while.”
The party broke up fairly early, and everyone was gone by 11. Cody had long since been put to bed and there was nothing left to do but put the gifts under the tree and turn in themselves. Gabe left earlier with an old girlfriend and Shaun and Zach helped Larry bring in presents for under the tree before he turned in. Shaun and Zach set about doing what needed to be done for the morning. They brought the wrapped gifts they had down to the living room and arranged them under the tree, then lay down in front of the fireplace to admire their work for a while.
“I think this will be the best Christmas Cody has ever had.” Zach was lying with his head on Shaun’s shoulder. “I know it’s the best I’ve had in a long time. Maybe even the best ever.” He said. Shaun nuzzled his head and played with his hair.
“Larry will get up in the morning to turn the tree lights on, he always does. I think he sets his alarm for about 5:30. He’s usually an early riser anyway.” Shaun replied, he paused for a moment. “Oh, wait, I think we missed one.” He pulled out a small box and handed it to Zach.
Zach took the box and looked at it for a moment. “Go ahead and open it, Zach. It’s after midnight. It’s Christmas!”
Zach shifted to a better position and started removing the paper from the small box.. When he took the lid off, there was a gold band inside. “I love you Zach, and I want you with me forever. I want to make sure everyone knows that you’re mine. Will you wear this?” Shaun took the ring and held it as if to slide it on Zach’s finger. Zach hesitated for just a second then held out his left hand.
“Is there another one?” He asked. “Do you think I’m gonna wear this and you not wear one too?” He said smiling, his eyes were sparkling with tears of happiness.
Shaun smiled back and dug in his pocket. He produced a twin to the ring he had just put on Zach’s finger. Zach took it from him and said, “Shaun, these last few months have really been the happiest of my life. I want to grow old with you.” He slid the ring on Shaun’s finger and then laced their fingers together. He leaned in for a kiss. They lay together staring at the tree and talking low for a while, before turning in.
“Get up, Get up! Santa was here!” Cody yelled, jumping up and down on the foot of the bed.
“Kay buddy, we’re up.” Zach mumbled as he rolled over. “We’ll be right there. Is uncle Gabe awake yet?”
“I’ll go get him up, too.” Cody yelled and jumped off the bed heading for the door.
Zach chuckled at the thought of Cody waking up Gabe the same way he woke them up. Shaun pulled Zach into him and kissed him. “Morning, babe.” He sighed contentedly.
“Morning, and merry Christmas, again.” Zach responded and tilted his head up for a real kiss. “Wanna save time and take a quick shower together?” He asked with a wicked grin on his face. Shaun’s arm tightened slightly and he chuckled.
“I’ll see you in there.” Zach said as he lifted himself up off the bed and padded naked into the bathroom.
When Shaun came into the bathroom the shower was already running and Zach was rinsing the shampoo out of his hair. He slid in behind and kissed Zach’s shoulder. Zach leaned back into him for a moment then turned around to face him. He directed Shaun under the stream of water and poured some shampoo into his hand. He started massaging it into Shaun’s scalp. Shaun closed his eyes and relaxed. After he rinsed his head he picked up a washcloth and soaped it up. He washed Shaun’s back and turned him around to wash his chest. As he washed and rinsed an area he kissed it. When he was done, Shaun took the wash cloth and repeated the process on Zach. After they finished they toweled off and dressed.
“Merry Christmas!” Shaun said as they came into the kitchen for a quick breakfast.
Larry and Virginia were talking animatedly to Cody, and Gabe sat at the breakfast table looking like the walking dead. His eyes were almost closed and he had a cup of coffee in his hands, taking a sip now and then.
“Make too much merry last night little bro?” Shaun chuckled.
“Thanks for the wake up call.” Gabe said throwing them a malicious glare. Shaun and Zach both laughed. Gabe cracked a smile.
They had breakfast and took their coffee into the living room. By then Gabe was awake and feeling better. They were all in a festive mood. Gabe was the first to notice the matching rings on their fingers. “What’s with the rings?” He asked.
Zach blushed. “They were a Christmas present.” He said. Virginia came nearer to look at them.
“They are wonderful!” She gushed holding both their hands in hers. Virginia was keenly aware of Shaun’s need for stability. She was glad they were committed to each other to the extent of declaring it with rings. She hugged them both.
“Can I open presents now?” Cody asked bouncing up and down and sounding more than a little impatient. And they all laughed.
Shaun watched as his family passed out and opened their presents. He watched his partner open his and hold each one up for him to see. Zach leaned in and kissed him softly and asked. “Happy?”
“You don’t know how happy.” Shaun responded. He smiled and bent to his pile of presents. He started opening them.
The end.
Author: Axeldog76
Rating: PG 13
Spoilers: None
Summary: Shaun Zach and Cody spend Christmas at Laguna Beach with Larry Virginia and Gabe.
I didn't really reserve a prompt but here is my submission anyway!
“Are you sure you’re OK with this, Zach?” Shaun repeated about six times on the drive home. He was having huge doubts about this whole thing, and he wanted Zach to tell him it was alright to turn around and head back home. His mom had talked him into this:
“Shaun, that little boy deserves a great Christmas, after the year he’s had. Bring him home this year. We’ll have a huge tree, and lots of presents. I’d really like to get reacquainted with Zach, honey. And I’d like to get to know Cody. They are important in your life and that makes them important to me.” His mom argued.
He didn’t say yes right away. He actually thought about it for a week before he even told Zach about the conversation. “It sounds like she really wants us to come. She wants to see you again and she wants to get to know Cody.” He explained.
“It would be nice to spend Christmas there…” Zach said. “I can go check on dad, and see Tori too. But, what about you and Larry?” He asked taking the older man’s hand in his.
“She says he’s excited about having “the family” all together for Christmas. So, I should call her and tell her we’ll be there?” Shaun said. “Let’s plan on getting there on the 23rd. We can wait until we get there to do our shopping so we don’t have to carry all of Cody’s presents down there. Mom will watch Cody for us, I’m sure.”
“Cool, I’ll call the coffee shop and request the time off. Dave won’t have any problem with me being gone then. He’s good about family stuff, besides with the school closed it gets pretty slow there.” He gave Shaun a peck on the cheek and went to find his cell phone.
They pulled into the driveway at the beach house and parked. Zach unbuckled his seat belt and Shaun sat there staring at the house. “The last Christmas I was here, I had a fight with Larry, and took off. I think I ruined it for everyone.” He said. Zach grabbed his hand and squeezed it.
“I’m sure they aren’t even thinking about that Shaun.” Zach assured him. “Relax, I’ll protect ya from the big bully!” He laughed and kissed him on the cheek, and dove over the seat to wake Cody up. The little boy had talked non-stop for about half the trip home and after wearing himself out he fell asleep. “Codes…. We’re here.” Zach shook him gently and talked low.
“Did Santa come yet?” He said trying to wake up. He stretched and squirmed in his car seat.
“No Cody it’s only the 23rd Santa comes on Christmas Eve, remember?” He laughed and picked the boy up, helping him out of the car.
Shaun took a deep breath, stepped out of the car and started pulling luggage from the trunk.
“Hey ladies!” Gabe shouted as he bounded from the house. He hugged each of them in turn and picked Cody up to carry him to the house while the guys brought in the luggage.
Larry came out shook hands and grabbed a bag before heading back in too. They managed to get the luggage into “their room” which was the room Shaun always used when he came home.
“Let’s just stay up here” Shaun groaned dropping onto the bed and pulling Zach down onto the bed next to him.
“Come on, dude, we’ll go make nice and sneak off later on to do some shopping. I only have a couple things packed away in the luggage for you guys at this point.” He really didn’t move though. It was nice being back here. He had fallen in love here, so it was special to him. He rolled over on top of Shaun and ran his fingers lightly through his hair. “This is where I knew I loved you” He whispered.
“Ah, because of my sexual prowess.” Shaun boasted.
Zach chuckled lightly. “Because of your beautiful soul.” He said and kissed him. “But, the sex did help.” He laughed, and slid off the older man. “Gimme your hand, let’s go say hi and relax a bit before we go shopping.”
They made their way downstairs and into the kitchen, where everyone was gathered. Cody was telling them all what he had asked Santa for this year. “And I want some new matchbox cars, and a game boy.” He finished.
“Well, have you been good this year?” Larry asked him.
“Yeah, I always go to bed good, and I clean my room when Shaun and Zach make me. I ‘been real good.” He answered.
“That’s a lot of stuff, Codes.” Gabe said, “You think Santa can get it all in his sleigh?”
“Santa doesn’t get me everything.” He explained. “Adults get me some of the stuff. Santa just gets me the good stuff.” They all laughed.
“OK, Cody, why don’t you see what’s on TV and let the adults talk awhile.” Zach directed. Cody scampered off and Larry followed, to help him find something to watch.
“I’m so glad you decided to come home.” Virginia said to Shaun, she kissed him on the cheek and gave him a hug. She stepped over to Zach. And I’m glad you’re here too, Zach!” She smiled and kissed him too. “We’re going to have a beautiful Christmas this year. I think we’ll trim the tree tonight and drink eggnog.” She added.
“Mom, can I ask you to watch Cody this evening for a few hours?” Shaun asked. “We haven’t bought any presents yet. Didn’t want to have to carry them here from L.A.”
“Do you think he’ll stay with us?” She asked doubtfully. “He barely knows us.”
“We’ll stick around here for a while until he’s comfortable, besides he knows the house. We stayed here while we were packing to move to L.A. Uncle Gabe will be here too, isn’t that right Uncle Gabe!”
“I have no plans until about 11. I have a party to go to then.”
“We’ll be back way before then.” Zach added. “I think we’ll need a lot of beauty sleep tonight.” He said with a laugh.
“Sounds like you might be getting coal this year, son,” Larry said walking back into the kitchen. “If that comment is any indication!” He was smiling.
“He is always the perfect gentleman.” Zach said, defending Shaun, and kissing him on the cheek. Shaun blushed.
Virginia laughed. “I’m glad we’ll be on the other end of the house! We won’t be kept awake by your acrobatics!”
“Mom!” Shaun said. He couldn’t say any more.
They all laughed.
“I never thought I’d see you blush, my boy.” Larry said.
“I never thought you would all gang up on me like this!” He said. They laughed again. “What’s this about decorating the tree?” He changed the subject.
“Ok,” His mother said still smiling. “We’ll stop! If you boys want to go and bring down the boxes, we can get started. I already have the eggnog made.”
“Drink the eggnog slowly, Zach.” Gabe whispered as they made their way to the storage room for the boxes of Christmas ornaments. “It’s good, but it’s pretty potent.”
Shaun laughed. “She likes a lot of cheer in her nog.” He handed down boxes of decorations and they made their way back down to the family room. The tree was already there. It was delivered that morning and set in place. They decorated and drank eggnog, and caught up on things.
“Cody, we need to go out for a couple hours, you gonna be alright here with Uncle Gabe and Virginia and Larry?” Shaun asked the boy a couple hours later.
“Sure,” he said not taking his eyes off the Christmas show he was watching with Gabe. They were sharing a bowl of popcorn.
“This is my favorite part, Codes,” Gabe said nudging him.
“OK we’ll be back in a little while” Zach added.
“Take your time.” Gabe said distractedly as he too watched the Christmas show and munched popcorn.
“He’s like a big kid.” Shaun thought. They set off for the stores with a list and finished quickly. Virginia had given them a list for the grocery store too. “We’ll need a few extra things for all you hungry boys.” She said as she handed the list to Shaun. They hit the grocery store on the way home.
“I got everything on the list plus a few extra things, mom.” He said as he dumped a few bags on the kitchen counter. Zach came in carrying several more bags.
“This is the last of it. He said. What can we do with the other stuff out there?” Zach whispered.
“Let’s get Cody to bed and then we can take them up to our room to wrap them.”
Chapter Two
The next morning they readied themselves to go visit Zach’s dad. Zach had talked to his dad about Shaun and their new life together. But they had yet to both go visit him. Zach thought that the morning would be the best time to visit. His dad was less medicated in the mornings.
They took a fruit basket for Carol, and Zach got his dad some new slippers and a robe. (Carol’s idea). When they arrived he was watching TV and Carol making a pot of coffee.
“Hi, Dad.” Zach started. “How are you feeling?” He asked.
“Ok, the meds don’t seem to help as much as they used to.” He said. This was his usual response to that question.
“Hi Poppy!” Cody said and gave his grandpa a hug.
“Hey Cody, How do you like your new place?” He asked the boy.
“I have my own room, and I have a TV in it.’ He responded. “I want a puppy but Shaun says I need to be responsible before I can get a puppy.”
Warren looked at Cody and then looked at Shaun for the first time. “Well, I think He’s right. You have to learn to be responsible so you can take care of it. Puppies are fun but they can’t take care of themselves.”
“That’s what Shaun said.” Cody responded and ran into the kitchen to talk to Carol.
Shaun held out his hand to Warren and said “Nice to see you again, sir.”
Warren looked at him for a moment before he took his hand.
“We brought a couple things, dad.” Zach tried to change the mood. “Got you a couple presents and a little something for Carol.” He indicated the packages they had brought in.
Carol entered the room “Can I get you some coffee?” she asked. “I hope you don’t mind, Cody is having some cookies and milk at the table.
Zach looked at Shaun who nodded slightly. “Coffee would be nice. Black for both of us.”
“Do you mind if I give you a hand?” Shaun asked. She nodded, and glanced at Warren. They left the room.
“So, that’s the fella you are living with.” It was a statement not a question.
“Yeah… I’m happy dad. He really cares about me and about Cody.” Zach answered, sitting down next to his dad. “Not a lot of people would have taken in a guy and a kid at the same time. He is really great. And Cody loves him as much as I do.” He looked at his hands while he talked, not daring to look at is dad. “I know this isn’t how you thought things were supposed to turn out for me, but, honestly I’ve never been more happy in my life.”
“Well, you know my views on this sort of thing.” His dad countered. “I can’t change my mind overnight. This will take time.”
“Will you try, dad? I really love him, and I don’t want to lose you. Jeannie isn’t too happy about this either.”
“I’ll try.” He said as Carol and Shaun came in with coffee. Shaun handed a cup to Zach and looked at him inquiringly. He gave a slight nod and a quick smile.
After spending a little more time with his dad, they met Tori for lunch at the Shack. She was seeing a new guy. Danny was his name.
“I’m so glad you called me!” She said giving Zach a hug. “I’ve told Danny all about you. I’ve really wanted you to meet him. I’m glad he’s a bit late though. It gives us a chance to talk.” She took his hand and guided him outside, while Shaun and Cody got a table for the five of them. “I’m sorry I haven’t texted you in a while.” She started. “When I met Danny, Things seemed to have sped up. There was never time to do anything but be with him.”
“It’s OK.” Zach reassured her. “The last few weeks I’ve been swamped at school anyway. So you really like him, huh?”
“We’re talking about moving in together.” She said with a smile. “He is the best guy I know, apart from you, and well, you’re kind of taken now.” She laughed.
“It’s been what, two months since you started going out? You think that’s long enough?”
“Well, we’re waiting until after the holidays to start seriously thinking about it.”
“If he is all you talk him up to be, then I’m happy for you.” Zach said.
“How are things with you?’ She asked.
“I am the happiest guy in the world.” He blushed. I love school, and Cody is doing great in Preschool, and Shaun, what can I say? He is my soul-mate.” He said. Tori giggled. “I’m serious, I don’t know where my life would be now without him. He saved my life. He’s my hero. I just hope I am good enough for him”
Tori hugged him again. “I’m glad you’re happy. Don’t worry, I wasn’t lying when I said you were the best guy I know. I just hope he deserves you.” She said. “We should get back inside I think.”
Danny was a great guy and he seemed to really care about Tori. He had a good job and was very attentive to her. He was polite when he was introduced and seemed to fit in nicely during their meal.
They talked about the morning on the way back to Laguna Beach. Zach told Shaun what he and his dad talked about and what he talked about with Tori. “I think He’ll be OK.” Zach said of his father.
Chapter three
Christmas Eve always included a party at the beach house. Larry’s business cronies as well as Virginia’s club friends. Gabe usually invited a few people and Shaun did likewise. Shaun’s publisher was there, as well as Tori and Danny, among other friends of Shaun’s.
“Zach, I want you to meet someone.” He said taking the younger man by the hand and leading him over toward a couple standing a short distance away. “This is Jerry, my publisher, and his wife Sandra.” He said. Zach offered his hand.
“It’s nice to meet you.” He said. “I’ve heard a lot about you.” He directed the last remark to Jerry.
“I’ve heard a lot about you too.” He responded, “Shaun tells me you are attending CalArts. We use students as illustrators all the time. Do you have a portfolio you could bring to my office after the holidays? We might be able to throw a little work your way.”
“Wow, that would be great. Should I call you when we get back to Valencia to set up a time?” Zach was stunned. He tightened his grip on Shaun’s hand, involuntarily.
“Shaun has my number.” He said and he and his wife walked off.
“Ouch, you can loosen the grip there cowboy.” Shaun joked.
“Oh my god Shaun, can you believe that? Illustrating a book or even doing a cover for a book. That would be awesome!” Zach was thrilled, he threw his arms around Shaun’s neck and kissed him. “What did you tell him about me?”
“Only that you are great at what you do.” He kissed his cheek. “Come on, let’s find a dark corner and disappear for a while.”
The party broke up fairly early, and everyone was gone by 11. Cody had long since been put to bed and there was nothing left to do but put the gifts under the tree and turn in themselves. Gabe left earlier with an old girlfriend and Shaun and Zach helped Larry bring in presents for under the tree before he turned in. Shaun and Zach set about doing what needed to be done for the morning. They brought the wrapped gifts they had down to the living room and arranged them under the tree, then lay down in front of the fireplace to admire their work for a while.
“I think this will be the best Christmas Cody has ever had.” Zach was lying with his head on Shaun’s shoulder. “I know it’s the best I’ve had in a long time. Maybe even the best ever.” He said. Shaun nuzzled his head and played with his hair.
“Larry will get up in the morning to turn the tree lights on, he always does. I think he sets his alarm for about 5:30. He’s usually an early riser anyway.” Shaun replied, he paused for a moment. “Oh, wait, I think we missed one.” He pulled out a small box and handed it to Zach.
Zach took the box and looked at it for a moment. “Go ahead and open it, Zach. It’s after midnight. It’s Christmas!”
Zach shifted to a better position and started removing the paper from the small box.. When he took the lid off, there was a gold band inside. “I love you Zach, and I want you with me forever. I want to make sure everyone knows that you’re mine. Will you wear this?” Shaun took the ring and held it as if to slide it on Zach’s finger. Zach hesitated for just a second then held out his left hand.
“Is there another one?” He asked. “Do you think I’m gonna wear this and you not wear one too?” He said smiling, his eyes were sparkling with tears of happiness.
Shaun smiled back and dug in his pocket. He produced a twin to the ring he had just put on Zach’s finger. Zach took it from him and said, “Shaun, these last few months have really been the happiest of my life. I want to grow old with you.” He slid the ring on Shaun’s finger and then laced their fingers together. He leaned in for a kiss. They lay together staring at the tree and talking low for a while, before turning in.
“Get up, Get up! Santa was here!” Cody yelled, jumping up and down on the foot of the bed.
“Kay buddy, we’re up.” Zach mumbled as he rolled over. “We’ll be right there. Is uncle Gabe awake yet?”
“I’ll go get him up, too.” Cody yelled and jumped off the bed heading for the door.
Zach chuckled at the thought of Cody waking up Gabe the same way he woke them up. Shaun pulled Zach into him and kissed him. “Morning, babe.” He sighed contentedly.
“Morning, and merry Christmas, again.” Zach responded and tilted his head up for a real kiss. “Wanna save time and take a quick shower together?” He asked with a wicked grin on his face. Shaun’s arm tightened slightly and he chuckled.
“I’ll see you in there.” Zach said as he lifted himself up off the bed and padded naked into the bathroom.
When Shaun came into the bathroom the shower was already running and Zach was rinsing the shampoo out of his hair. He slid in behind and kissed Zach’s shoulder. Zach leaned back into him for a moment then turned around to face him. He directed Shaun under the stream of water and poured some shampoo into his hand. He started massaging it into Shaun’s scalp. Shaun closed his eyes and relaxed. After he rinsed his head he picked up a washcloth and soaped it up. He washed Shaun’s back and turned him around to wash his chest. As he washed and rinsed an area he kissed it. When he was done, Shaun took the wash cloth and repeated the process on Zach. After they finished they toweled off and dressed.
“Merry Christmas!” Shaun said as they came into the kitchen for a quick breakfast.
Larry and Virginia were talking animatedly to Cody, and Gabe sat at the breakfast table looking like the walking dead. His eyes were almost closed and he had a cup of coffee in his hands, taking a sip now and then.
“Make too much merry last night little bro?” Shaun chuckled.
“Thanks for the wake up call.” Gabe said throwing them a malicious glare. Shaun and Zach both laughed. Gabe cracked a smile.
They had breakfast and took their coffee into the living room. By then Gabe was awake and feeling better. They were all in a festive mood. Gabe was the first to notice the matching rings on their fingers. “What’s with the rings?” He asked.
Zach blushed. “They were a Christmas present.” He said. Virginia came nearer to look at them.
“They are wonderful!” She gushed holding both their hands in hers. Virginia was keenly aware of Shaun’s need for stability. She was glad they were committed to each other to the extent of declaring it with rings. She hugged them both.
“Can I open presents now?” Cody asked bouncing up and down and sounding more than a little impatient. And they all laughed.
Shaun watched as his family passed out and opened their presents. He watched his partner open his and hold each one up for him to see. Zach leaned in and kissed him softly and asked. “Happy?”
“You don’t know how happy.” Shaun responded. He smiled and bent to his pile of presents. He started opening them.
The end.
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Merry Christmas to you and yours.
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