Roll Away Your Stone 12/18
Series: Secret
Story: Roll Away Your Stone
Chapter: …Does This Grace Thing Work?
Rating: R
Pairing: Nikki/Nora
Disclaimer/Details of Participation/Terms & Conditions: Not mine, no monies are being made and if I were to bill the owners my hourly rate...well...you get the idea.
A/N: A little early with the post today, but I’ll be out and about all day tomorrow…so, with a bit of quiet time, I thought I’d get this out there. This is the last of the story from Nora’s POV, we’re going to Nikki’s next. There’s still a lot more tell in this so…I hope you enjoy the read. Also, just so we’re clear, there’s some language in this that I don’t particularly like, more often than not it just pisses me off when I hear it, but…it’s a sacrifice for the character portrayed. Sorry about that…
Ch. 12 - …Does This Grace Thing Work?
“You,” Nikki growls and smacks my wandering hand away before going back to fixing her makeup.
“Nikki,” I whine and send her a mock pout before turning my attention to my vanity in the bathroom to fix my hair. She won’t let me distract myself by trying to peel that outfit off her.
I mean I’ve seen her in clothes that she’s been in that were meant to kill.
Literally.
She has this black and red number that’s stopped my heart on more than one occasion, but…
Tonight it’s different.
Tonight it’s a pair of designer jeans, pre worn-in and faded expertly, that hugs her hips and ass while elongating her already long legs. It makes me slightly uncomfortable due to the amount of heat they’ve generated in areas that should not heat up when you’re preparing to go see your mother, brother, sister-in-law and two nephews.
To top it off, the bra she has on is black lace and it’s been beggin’ me to take it off her. Unfortunately, she’s gone and covered it up with one of my concert t-shirts.
Not Annie’s first choice for a show, but I wanted to go so bad that she caved and took me to see Gun’s ‘N Roses at the Superdome with Metallica. I loved seeing Axel Rose and the rest of the band, but I was never a big fan of Metallica. That night didn’t make me a convert either. The shirt is fitted, not too tight, but it hugs her chest in such a way…
What I don’t understand in all of this is why Nikki Beaumont is choosing this particular look. I would have thought she would go for something a little more…well, something like work attire. So I ask, “Nik, uh, why the outfit?”
I watch a manicured eyebrow arc in the mirror as Nikki finishes applying her lip gloss. “Because it’s comfortable and I’m closer to you.”
“Closer to…”
She drops the tube in her open purse before turning to me and propping a hip against the bathroom sink. “Your shirt, Nora. I just want…” Her lips purse as she trails off. Her eyes scan the floor and she runs a hand gently through her hair before she starts up again, “I want something of yours on me. I’m more nervous tonight than last weekend.”
“Oh.” I reach out and hook a finger through an exposed belt loop on her jeans. Pulling her to me, I rest my arms on her shoulders and say, “Well, my shirt looks good on you.” Mindful of her make-up, I peck the tip of her nose and follow up with, “You can wear my clothes anytime. As long as I get to take them off.”
A smirk plays at the corner of her mouth as she nods. “I think that’s fair.” She pulls away a little and swats my ass. “Let’s go collect that brother of yours.”
I let her slip past me so I can watch her saunter away. Dutifully, I follow her down the stairs to meet up with the rest of our party. I round the corner into the living room and see the two men in the house looking at a few pictures. I look them over and see that my brother is in a pair of pressed jeans and a green button up dress shirt. It’s just as crisp as the jeans. Idly, I wonder if the crease in the pants would cut if you ran your finger along the edge.
Knowing Pat, probably.
His partner is in fitted black slacks and a black V-neck tee. A black blazer completes the look.
It’s Nikki who comments on the shoes, “Are the shoes a sign of solidarity of your people or did you just catch a sale at Banana Republic?” She taps her chin with her index finger and amends, “Although they do look lovely on you both.”
Chris blushes and mumbles, “So I have an exorbitant line of credit at the store. Gonna arrest me officer? And for the record, you two look good as well.” He snags Pat’s hand and asks, “Shall we be off to face the firing squad?”
I shrug and take Nikki’s hand in mine to wait on Chris and Pat to pass us so we can lock up, but as Chris pulls at Pat, my brother falters. I shoot a look at the oldest of the Delaney clan and don’t really like what I see. “Nik, take Chris to Bruce. Lemme have a chat with Patrick.”
Nikki nods and drops my hand. “Come on, Chrissy. Let’s leave the two and allow me to pick your brain about the upcoming Spring fashion. Who do you follow?”
I don’t hear Chris’ response as I give my brother a slight push towards the couch. He flops back down causing the shirt he wears to strain along the chest and arms. I try to tease him, “Do you purposefully get the shirts too small?”
He shakes his head. “They’re either too big around the middle if I get a size bigger and too loose in the shoulders. This is the best I can do. Too broad shoulders are a pain in the ass.”
I lean back against the cushions next him and bump shoulders before laying my head on the too broad shoulder he was just complaining about. “You’re supposed lead here big brother.”
He grunts.
“What’s up?”
“Nerves,” he sighs. “Terry’s gonna be there and we really ain’t talked for… I call to say hey to the kids during the birthdays and holidays but other than that…” I feel his head shake. “I’m not sure if having him here is the best thing. Especially so soon after…I mean mama came by and told us to be there the same day you got your note, but…” His chest rises and falls. The body underneath ripples with a tension that I’m not used to from him.
“Look,” I grab his hand needing him to know that we’re in this bit of a mess together, “Annie gave me some solid advice, you wanna hear it?”
“Sure, she’s an all right girl in my book. Jill’s a damn riot. I can see why you like them.”
“They’re special. We’ve been through a lot together, and they’re family. Don’t forget that. I gave Jill your number…you can probably expect a checkup phone call in a week or so. She’s really good for them. But,” I let his hand go and go for the ring on his finger, spinning it with my index and thumb. When he first got here, it sat on his right ring finger. After last Sunday, it moved to match Chris’ on his left. “What Annie said is that we did the best we could. You know she’s right it’s not like we could have prepared mama any better than we did. She may feel like we gave her, well that we kind of dumped this on her, but was there another way?”
He shrugs.
“Pat seriously, between Jill giving us every pamphlet known to creation about how to come out, all of them said pretty much the same thing. Carb up and just rip it off like a band aid. Which we did. Hallmark doesn’t make coming out cards…”
“Although, I think it’s an untapped market if you ask me,” he butts in.
I snicker. “Maybe they can partner with FTD and like do a flower arrangement or something.”
His own snicker fills my ears.
“Besides, if you’re really worried about Terry, brother of mine or not, he tries to lay a hand on anyone there, I’ll have him in cuffs so fast he won’t even notice.”
“Or, knowing you, you may just kick the living shit out of him,” Patrick snorts.
I shrug. Maybe. “Regardless of what I do…the point is that it ain’t just you and him anymore. We know. You know about me.”
“NOLA Pride Parade?” he questions.
“Fat chance dip shit. I’m just sayin’…”
“Yeah, yeah…you got my back,” he says.
“Nikki’s got it too. And let me tell you, my girl has a searing right hook. Don’t go near her feet either. I’ve seen her drop a few people with those feet and knees.” I stand and hold my hand. “You ready?”
He nods and I lose sight of my own hand in his. I pull him up and he wraps me in a hug. “Thanks, Huggy. You and Nik have been great. I don’t think…”
“Say another word,” I mumble into his chest, “And I’m going to begin questioning your manhood.”
“You mean the idea that I may bottom doesn’t question it already?” he rumbles against me.
I feel my face heat up and shake my head. “I haven’t put that much thought into how you take it.”
“Good to know.” He laughs a little more and we break a part.
He smiles at me again. Green eyes a little brighter and shinier than what I’m used to seeing. I sigh and head towards the front. Ann’s gonna gloat when I tell her about this. Their damn pep talks have started to rub off.
Patrick and Chris lead the march up the sidewalk to my childhood home. I squint and look up into the cloudy sky and tug on my jacket. It’s a little chilly and it’s threatening to rain sometime soon. The only thing this tells me is that Joanie has probably kept the kids cooped up all day.
Poor guys.
I mean my sister-in-law isn’t that bad and we get on most of the time, but she’s just so…anal about the boys. And I swear she’s just like this when I’m around to get on my nerves. The last time they were down, we had a bar-b-q. It was hot, the boys were bored, so I brought some water balloons and side walk chalk. My thoughts were we could draw on the sidewalk and then use the water balloons to help wash some of it off.
Joanie threw a conniption carrying on about the mess and them getting wet. It didn’t seem to register with her that when I arrived they were in t-shirts and swim trunks.
I shake it off and give Nikki a reassuring smile, making sure our fingers are laced together. She’s been a little fidgety and it sets me on edge when she’s nervous.
We’re about to hit the porch when two tawny headed objects come flying out the front door with Joanie calling after them.
“Aunt Nora! Uncle Patrick!” Joshua and Brandon call out at once. I quickly move next to my brother and drop down to one knee. Patrick follows suit and we end up with one nephew each. At six and eight, they’re about as rambunctious as you can get. I lose Josh in my arms and kiss the top of his head.
“Hey rug rat,” I laugh against his hair as he tries to squirm away. Brandon gives his brother a shove towards his uncle and grabs me around the neck. “Hey, there big guy.”
“Auntie Nora,” Brandon coos into my neck. I pull him away and feel a sharp tug at my hair. I stop and look down to see a cherry red Tootsie Pop tangled in my hair.
“Uh-oh,” Brandon and Josh say at the same time.
Josh follows up with, “Someone’s gonna be in trouble.”
“Hush, you two,” I say and grab for the hair tie around my wrist.
“Here,” Nikki says, taking the tie and separating out the rest of my hair from the pieces tangled in the sucker.
Chris and Patrick are snickering behind me as Joanie comes out of the front door.
“Brandon Terry Delaney, what did you do?” Joanie begins to scold.
“Nothing,” I cover for my nephew. “We had a little run in with a sucker. Nothing major.” I try to wave her off and stand up wiping my hands on my jeans. “Uh, Joanie, this is my…uhm…”
I feel Nikki’s hand at the small of my back before I see it reach out to shake Joanie’s and introduce herself, “Nikki Beaumont.”
“Oh,” my sister-in-law squeaks and blindly accepts the hand being offered.
“And Chris, this is my sister-in-law, Joanie,” Patrick introduces them.
“Hi, Chris Zermano.” My brother’s partner turns on the charm and offers Joanie a bright white toothed smile.
“Nora, Patrick,” my mother calls from the door way, “I suggest you all get in the house. We can make the introductions inside.” My mother looks pointedly at me and Patrick and I sigh.
Right.
She’s gonna be a bit harder to deal with.
Deciding that I should tackle this like I would a case at work, I square my shoulders and wait for the boys and Joanie to head inside before shooting Patrick a look. Knowing that he needs me right now just as much as I needed him last Sunday, I reach for Nikki’s hand and pull her forward to take the lead.
Coming into the living room, Terry stands up from his place on the couch and I hold my finger up and point to my hair. “Be right back. Nik, you think you can…?” I point to my hair and the bathroom.
She nods and we start to set off towards the restroom, but my mother’s voice stops us in our tracks, “Nora, I’ll help you with that. Patrick join us.”
I really don’t think I’ve heard that tone since high school.
Shooting Nikki an apologetic look, I feel Patrick tug on my jacket sleeve and pull me down the hall into the restroom. My mother’s sitting on the closed toilet and points to the bathtub indicating that we should take a seat.
I take a seat on the edge of the tub and Patrick sits down next to me. The edges of his knees touch the doors of the cabinet underneath the sink across from us. Our mother stands and hands me a wet washcloth. “That should get it out enough so that we don’t have to cut your hair.”
Sighing, I pick the lollipop up and begin a tug-wipe combo that should free up the largest clump the sucker’s stuck to.
“I wanted a private word,” our mother starts out, “I told Terry and Joanie when they came in on Friday night.” Her jaw clenches and releases. “I supposed that fight you got into right before you left for boot camp has been explained.”
“Ma…” Patrick tries to start.
“Don’t interrupt me young man,” she warns. “So, we’re just going to air a few things out, not in front of strangers…”
“Mama, it wasn’t…” I try to explain to her.
“Do you think you can interrupt me when I just told your brother to not do exactly that?” Her foot taps off the linoleum that hasn’t been replaced in twenty-five years. I shake my head. “Good. Now, then, let’s get this straight. I’m so upset at you two for lying to me I could…believe you me, the thought of having you two go pick a switch has crossed my mind a few dozen times.”
She sighs and rolls her eyes at my attempt to remove the sucker. Swatting my hands out of the way, she takes over the task and continues to speak, “But I understand you both are too old for that which is unfortunate for me. Also, just so we’re clear on the whole…” her voice drops to a stage whisper, “gay thing,” and she’s back to her normal volume when she says the rest, “I don’t approve. I don’t like it. I think it’s wrong.”
“Mama, how co…” Patrick stops talking when she pops him in the forehead.
“I warned you,” she growls, “Now zip it and lemme finish. Just ‘cause I don’t think it’s right doesn’t mean that I don’t love you two any less. That being said, I respect your right to live your life like you see fit.” Pain flashes across her face as she chokes out the next few words, “I’ll do my best to get to know your…friends, but I ain’t makin’ any promises either.”
She tugs a little more on my hair and the sucker pulls free. It has only a few strands of hair attached to it. She holds it up and squints at her handy work before dumping it in the waste paper basket. “I expect you to be on your best behavior while your brother’s in town with my grandchildren. Are we clear?”
I’m not too sure what that’s supposed to mean, but given the tone, I readily nod my head. At our agreement, she swings the door open and disappears. Patrick is the first to follow her out and as I stand, Nikki’s head appears around the door frame.
“Sugga?”
I blink and look up from my seat. I shrug. She steps into the small bathroom and closes the door behind her. “You okay?”
I nod again. “Yeah. Just…uh,” I rub at my forehead and try to figure out the last five minutes of my life. Nikki’s hand closes over my left and she leans against my side.
“You wanna cut outta here and take off with me to Puerto Rico?” she asks. Turning into me, her left middle and index finger walk up and down my thigh. “I know where we can score us a boat and the perfect spot on a private beach in San Juan for some clothing optional sunbathing.”
I chuckle and shake my head. “Maybe when we get some more vacation time racked up.”
“Hmmm,” she purrs against my neck. “I will hold you to that, Nora.”
“Come on, crazy, let’s go see what my family’s up to,” I stand and hoist her up. I lean in for a peck and whisper before we leave the safety of the bathroom, “Love you.”
“So,” Terry booms as my mother starts passing around the meatloaf, “What happened to the car, Nora? Last I heard, you were still drivin’ the El Camino around. That Porsche you drove up in, that yours too? Seems a bit above a cop’s pay grade. ”
“The El Camino was involved in a shooting, so they’re holding it in impound until I figure out what to do,” I answer and pass off the mashed potatoes choosing to ignore the last question and the comment that followed.
Terry’s eyebrows rise and motions to Nikki. “You get hurt in it?” Pointing towards the white line along Nikki’s scalp.
“I was it,” she says drolly. My girl hasn’t been too impressed with my brother’s antics thus far.
Truthfully neither have I. When Nikki and I came out of the restroom and stepped into the living room, Joanie was in front of Terry and Chris had a hold of Pat’s arm. I’m not really sure what was said, but neither has said a word to the other since.
“Really?” Terry whistles. “Wow, she let you drive that ridiculous car?”
“My ridiculous what?” I snap.
Terry guffaws, but Patrick, Bobby, Chris and Nikki have the good sense to not say anything.
“Hug, that thing you called a car should have been heaped when you were set up enough to afford a new one,” Terry chuckles.
“I’ll have you know,” I point a finger at him and keep my voice in check because the boys are sitting in the living room, “June Lee was in better damn shape than most cars you could buy brand new.”
Terry makes a face and shakes his. Sucking his teeth, he looks between Nikki and I.
“Nikki,” my mother stops the words forming in Terry’s brain, “I take it you’re all right though? Bobby told me about you being in the hospital. I’m sorry about that.”
Nikki smiles and waves her off. “Fine. Was just cleared for desk duty actually.”
“How nice,” my mom smiles. “And you, Chris, we haven’t really had a chance to chat. What are you going to do here in New Orleans?”
“Hopefully, once we settle on a place and get it together, open up a recording studio and start finding local talent. I’d like to get back to the studio soon.”
“What is it you do?” Joanie asks while spooning some gravy over her potatoes.
“I’m a music producer,” he answers.
“Oh, what kind?” she probes.
Terry stopped talking when Chris started answering questions. Instead, he chose to tuck into his food.
“Different things. Rap, hip-hop, R & B, some pop, rock & roll…I listen to a lot of different types of music so I’ll work with most any genre.”
“Actually, Chris just wrapped up three different projects,” Patrick states proudly.
“Oh, really,” Nikki smirks. “Who?”
“Uh,” Chris blushes a little under the olive skin tone and shrugs, “Uh, Mariah Carey, Garbage and Anna Nalick.”
“I know Mariah Carey, but the other two…” Nikki grins. “But that’s still pretty impressive.”
Chris shrugs, “Mariah’s album is due out this year. Hopefully they’ll finish up Garbage’s and Anna’s. They are both pretty great. Uh,” he drums his fingers against his forehead thinking. “Uhm, Garbage’s drummer, Butch Vig…you guys know Nirvana?” he asks, looking around the room expectantly.
I nod, Nikki does, but Terry looks a blankly at him. At least his wife nods.
“Butch Vig produced Nirvana’s breakout album Nevermind. If that helps at all. Anna’s more up and coming. Great voice, decent writer. Eric and I were gonna spend more time with her, but things happened with the move quicker than I’d have liked.”
“How so?” my mom asks.
“Well, the house sold quicker than we thought. My mom moved to New York to be with her sister. It lined up just right. And really, my job’s more about taking the talent that comes into the studio and refining it. Helping the artist make decisions about what they want their work to sound like, feel like.”
“Well,” my mother says, “It’s sounds like you really love what you do.”
Chris bobs his head. “Most of the time.” He winks at my mom and she smiles.
“So have you decided on where you’re going to look for a house?” My mom tries to keep the conversation going as the clatter of silver wear gets a little louder. Terry’s fork scrapes across the plate.
I’ve seen suspects in a box look less tense.
I shoot a look to Patrick. The only sign of his nervous tension is where his left arm disappears under the table. Chris’ right is hidden too.
Can’t really blame them, Nikki’s had a death grip on my thigh since the meatloaf was served.
“Mary, Hug and Nik’s realtor, has helped. We went and looked at a few houses in the Garden District that would work,” Patrick answers.
“Bit above your pay grade ain’t it, sergeant?” Terry sneers.
“I don’t think my income’s much of your business, Terry.” Patrick lets it go and directs the conversation back to mom and Joanie. “We want something that’ll be comfortable. Large enough for a few dogs.”
“And a few kids, soon.” Chris turns an upturned eyebrow to his partner.
Patrick actually blushes, but manages a practiced sigh.
“Really?” My mother’s face lights up. “Chris you shouldn’t play with an old woman’s heart. I would love more grandkids.”
“He wanted dogs,” Chris hooks a thumb at Pat and rolls his eyes. “We compromised. I get kids and he gets some dogs, but I’m sure he’ll be fine.”
The news causes my mom to turn a look to me and then to Nikki. I begin shaking my head. “Hey don’t get your hopes up ma. We aren’t even close to discussing the idea of children.”
Her face falls a little, but she relents and says, “Well at least I’ll have two sets of grandkids to spoil instead of just the one.”
With that, Terry’s silverware clatters to his plate. “You know what; I’ve just about had enough. We can l sit here all day and pretend and make nice about how no one here thinks that what’s going on is even remotely right! You can’t bring kids in to a morally bankrupt home. Either of you. Raisin’ kids in that type of environment…” His jaw clenches and he spits, “damn faggots and dykes raising kids. Dad was right, fuckers should just be put down.”
Somewhere between the silverware dropping and the end of Terry’s outburst it feels like the air’s been sucked out of the room, but it doesn’t stop my movements. I’m standing over his chair and he’s pushing back, standing toe to toe with me. Terry isn’t much taller than Bobby, which is good for me ‘cause Bobby and I are nearly eye to eye.
In the background, below the rushing in my ears and my heavy breathing, I hear a few voices calling out. To me or to Terry, I’m not sure which. Right now it doesn’t matter. I stand facing off against my brother. Body tense, eyes locked. I was expecting something from him.
Not this.
Not the hate I heard in his voice.
It’s Bobby that gets between us. His forearm pushes against my chest and I stumble back into Nikki. “I’ve had enough of this!” my younger brother barks. “You know, I’ve had to deal with this the longest out of everyone here. Keeping secrets for Nora, keeping things from mom and you two!” He points between Patrick and Terry. “Well, you know what I’ve had enough. You’re an asshole Terry. Always have been and my guess always will be. You come around when it’s convenient or when you can inflict the most damage, well I ain’t takin’ it anymore! So siddown, shut up and keep your opinion to yourself or I’ll shut it for you!”
“You gonna what?” Terry sneers while Joanie pulls on his arm with little affect.
“I. Will. Shut. Your. Mouth. For. You.” My brother punctuates the statement with a poke to Terry’s chest. “You ain’t gonna come here and tear us apart. If you’d get over whatever stupid bullshit dad put in your head you’d see that your family isn’t half bad.”
Terry’s chin pushes up and he taunts, “Why Bobby you like takin’ it up the ass too? Figures you fuckin’ fruit.”
“Enough!” my mom yells and steps between her two sons. I want to go over but Nikki’s hand is firmly holding onto my upper arm. Chris has an equally tight grip on Patrick. “Now all of you sit right back down. Terry Joseph I suggest you keep that mouth of yours shut before I let your brothers and sister shut it for you. If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” Her knuckle digs into his shoulder until she forces him backwards and into his seat.
“Joanie, keep your husband on a short leash. You two may have issues with…” she waves a hand at my side of the table, “but you will respect this house and this family. Your father did enough damage with his opinions. I will have my family together for rest of the time I have left. Do you understand me Patrick, Terry, Bobby and Nora? You will get along. You will love each other and you will respect each other or I will bend each and every one of you over my knee. And no I don’t care how old you are. I brought all of you into this world and I can damn sure take all four of you out!”
Nikki tugs on my arm and pulls me back to my seat. The look in her eyes is murderous, but she leans in and whispers, “Let’s get through this for your mother. Then we leave.”
I nod quickly and look to Patrick; the muscles in his jaw are knotted. I shake my head at him and he sighs. We’ve got an hour tops before we can leave.
This can’t end soon enough.
Next>>>
Story: Roll Away Your Stone
Chapter: …Does This Grace Thing Work?
Rating: R
Pairing: Nikki/Nora
Disclaimer/Details of Participation/Terms & Conditions: Not mine, no monies are being made and if I were to bill the owners my hourly rate...well...you get the idea.
A/N: A little early with the post today, but I’ll be out and about all day tomorrow…so, with a bit of quiet time, I thought I’d get this out there. This is the last of the story from Nora’s POV, we’re going to Nikki’s next. There’s still a lot more tell in this so…I hope you enjoy the read. Also, just so we’re clear, there’s some language in this that I don’t particularly like, more often than not it just pisses me off when I hear it, but…it’s a sacrifice for the character portrayed. Sorry about that…
Ch. 12 - …Does This Grace Thing Work?
“You,” Nikki growls and smacks my wandering hand away before going back to fixing her makeup.
“Nikki,” I whine and send her a mock pout before turning my attention to my vanity in the bathroom to fix my hair. She won’t let me distract myself by trying to peel that outfit off her.
I mean I’ve seen her in clothes that she’s been in that were meant to kill.
Literally.
She has this black and red number that’s stopped my heart on more than one occasion, but…
Tonight it’s different.
Tonight it’s a pair of designer jeans, pre worn-in and faded expertly, that hugs her hips and ass while elongating her already long legs. It makes me slightly uncomfortable due to the amount of heat they’ve generated in areas that should not heat up when you’re preparing to go see your mother, brother, sister-in-law and two nephews.
To top it off, the bra she has on is black lace and it’s been beggin’ me to take it off her. Unfortunately, she’s gone and covered it up with one of my concert t-shirts.
Not Annie’s first choice for a show, but I wanted to go so bad that she caved and took me to see Gun’s ‘N Roses at the Superdome with Metallica. I loved seeing Axel Rose and the rest of the band, but I was never a big fan of Metallica. That night didn’t make me a convert either. The shirt is fitted, not too tight, but it hugs her chest in such a way…
What I don’t understand in all of this is why Nikki Beaumont is choosing this particular look. I would have thought she would go for something a little more…well, something like work attire. So I ask, “Nik, uh, why the outfit?”
I watch a manicured eyebrow arc in the mirror as Nikki finishes applying her lip gloss. “Because it’s comfortable and I’m closer to you.”
“Closer to…”
She drops the tube in her open purse before turning to me and propping a hip against the bathroom sink. “Your shirt, Nora. I just want…” Her lips purse as she trails off. Her eyes scan the floor and she runs a hand gently through her hair before she starts up again, “I want something of yours on me. I’m more nervous tonight than last weekend.”
“Oh.” I reach out and hook a finger through an exposed belt loop on her jeans. Pulling her to me, I rest my arms on her shoulders and say, “Well, my shirt looks good on you.” Mindful of her make-up, I peck the tip of her nose and follow up with, “You can wear my clothes anytime. As long as I get to take them off.”
A smirk plays at the corner of her mouth as she nods. “I think that’s fair.” She pulls away a little and swats my ass. “Let’s go collect that brother of yours.”
I let her slip past me so I can watch her saunter away. Dutifully, I follow her down the stairs to meet up with the rest of our party. I round the corner into the living room and see the two men in the house looking at a few pictures. I look them over and see that my brother is in a pair of pressed jeans and a green button up dress shirt. It’s just as crisp as the jeans. Idly, I wonder if the crease in the pants would cut if you ran your finger along the edge.
Knowing Pat, probably.
His partner is in fitted black slacks and a black V-neck tee. A black blazer completes the look.
It’s Nikki who comments on the shoes, “Are the shoes a sign of solidarity of your people or did you just catch a sale at Banana Republic?” She taps her chin with her index finger and amends, “Although they do look lovely on you both.”
Chris blushes and mumbles, “So I have an exorbitant line of credit at the store. Gonna arrest me officer? And for the record, you two look good as well.” He snags Pat’s hand and asks, “Shall we be off to face the firing squad?”
I shrug and take Nikki’s hand in mine to wait on Chris and Pat to pass us so we can lock up, but as Chris pulls at Pat, my brother falters. I shoot a look at the oldest of the Delaney clan and don’t really like what I see. “Nik, take Chris to Bruce. Lemme have a chat with Patrick.”
Nikki nods and drops my hand. “Come on, Chrissy. Let’s leave the two and allow me to pick your brain about the upcoming Spring fashion. Who do you follow?”
I don’t hear Chris’ response as I give my brother a slight push towards the couch. He flops back down causing the shirt he wears to strain along the chest and arms. I try to tease him, “Do you purposefully get the shirts too small?”
He shakes his head. “They’re either too big around the middle if I get a size bigger and too loose in the shoulders. This is the best I can do. Too broad shoulders are a pain in the ass.”
I lean back against the cushions next him and bump shoulders before laying my head on the too broad shoulder he was just complaining about. “You’re supposed lead here big brother.”
He grunts.
“What’s up?”
“Nerves,” he sighs. “Terry’s gonna be there and we really ain’t talked for… I call to say hey to the kids during the birthdays and holidays but other than that…” I feel his head shake. “I’m not sure if having him here is the best thing. Especially so soon after…I mean mama came by and told us to be there the same day you got your note, but…” His chest rises and falls. The body underneath ripples with a tension that I’m not used to from him.
“Look,” I grab his hand needing him to know that we’re in this bit of a mess together, “Annie gave me some solid advice, you wanna hear it?”
“Sure, she’s an all right girl in my book. Jill’s a damn riot. I can see why you like them.”
“They’re special. We’ve been through a lot together, and they’re family. Don’t forget that. I gave Jill your number…you can probably expect a checkup phone call in a week or so. She’s really good for them. But,” I let his hand go and go for the ring on his finger, spinning it with my index and thumb. When he first got here, it sat on his right ring finger. After last Sunday, it moved to match Chris’ on his left. “What Annie said is that we did the best we could. You know she’s right it’s not like we could have prepared mama any better than we did. She may feel like we gave her, well that we kind of dumped this on her, but was there another way?”
He shrugs.
“Pat seriously, between Jill giving us every pamphlet known to creation about how to come out, all of them said pretty much the same thing. Carb up and just rip it off like a band aid. Which we did. Hallmark doesn’t make coming out cards…”
“Although, I think it’s an untapped market if you ask me,” he butts in.
I snicker. “Maybe they can partner with FTD and like do a flower arrangement or something.”
His own snicker fills my ears.
“Besides, if you’re really worried about Terry, brother of mine or not, he tries to lay a hand on anyone there, I’ll have him in cuffs so fast he won’t even notice.”
“Or, knowing you, you may just kick the living shit out of him,” Patrick snorts.
I shrug. Maybe. “Regardless of what I do…the point is that it ain’t just you and him anymore. We know. You know about me.”
“NOLA Pride Parade?” he questions.
“Fat chance dip shit. I’m just sayin’…”
“Yeah, yeah…you got my back,” he says.
“Nikki’s got it too. And let me tell you, my girl has a searing right hook. Don’t go near her feet either. I’ve seen her drop a few people with those feet and knees.” I stand and hold my hand. “You ready?”
He nods and I lose sight of my own hand in his. I pull him up and he wraps me in a hug. “Thanks, Huggy. You and Nik have been great. I don’t think…”
“Say another word,” I mumble into his chest, “And I’m going to begin questioning your manhood.”
“You mean the idea that I may bottom doesn’t question it already?” he rumbles against me.
I feel my face heat up and shake my head. “I haven’t put that much thought into how you take it.”
“Good to know.” He laughs a little more and we break a part.
He smiles at me again. Green eyes a little brighter and shinier than what I’m used to seeing. I sigh and head towards the front. Ann’s gonna gloat when I tell her about this. Their damn pep talks have started to rub off.
Patrick and Chris lead the march up the sidewalk to my childhood home. I squint and look up into the cloudy sky and tug on my jacket. It’s a little chilly and it’s threatening to rain sometime soon. The only thing this tells me is that Joanie has probably kept the kids cooped up all day.
Poor guys.
I mean my sister-in-law isn’t that bad and we get on most of the time, but she’s just so…anal about the boys. And I swear she’s just like this when I’m around to get on my nerves. The last time they were down, we had a bar-b-q. It was hot, the boys were bored, so I brought some water balloons and side walk chalk. My thoughts were we could draw on the sidewalk and then use the water balloons to help wash some of it off.
Joanie threw a conniption carrying on about the mess and them getting wet. It didn’t seem to register with her that when I arrived they were in t-shirts and swim trunks.
I shake it off and give Nikki a reassuring smile, making sure our fingers are laced together. She’s been a little fidgety and it sets me on edge when she’s nervous.
We’re about to hit the porch when two tawny headed objects come flying out the front door with Joanie calling after them.
“Aunt Nora! Uncle Patrick!” Joshua and Brandon call out at once. I quickly move next to my brother and drop down to one knee. Patrick follows suit and we end up with one nephew each. At six and eight, they’re about as rambunctious as you can get. I lose Josh in my arms and kiss the top of his head.
“Hey rug rat,” I laugh against his hair as he tries to squirm away. Brandon gives his brother a shove towards his uncle and grabs me around the neck. “Hey, there big guy.”
“Auntie Nora,” Brandon coos into my neck. I pull him away and feel a sharp tug at my hair. I stop and look down to see a cherry red Tootsie Pop tangled in my hair.
“Uh-oh,” Brandon and Josh say at the same time.
Josh follows up with, “Someone’s gonna be in trouble.”
“Hush, you two,” I say and grab for the hair tie around my wrist.
“Here,” Nikki says, taking the tie and separating out the rest of my hair from the pieces tangled in the sucker.
Chris and Patrick are snickering behind me as Joanie comes out of the front door.
“Brandon Terry Delaney, what did you do?” Joanie begins to scold.
“Nothing,” I cover for my nephew. “We had a little run in with a sucker. Nothing major.” I try to wave her off and stand up wiping my hands on my jeans. “Uh, Joanie, this is my…uhm…”
I feel Nikki’s hand at the small of my back before I see it reach out to shake Joanie’s and introduce herself, “Nikki Beaumont.”
“Oh,” my sister-in-law squeaks and blindly accepts the hand being offered.
“And Chris, this is my sister-in-law, Joanie,” Patrick introduces them.
“Hi, Chris Zermano.” My brother’s partner turns on the charm and offers Joanie a bright white toothed smile.
“Nora, Patrick,” my mother calls from the door way, “I suggest you all get in the house. We can make the introductions inside.” My mother looks pointedly at me and Patrick and I sigh.
Right.
She’s gonna be a bit harder to deal with.
Deciding that I should tackle this like I would a case at work, I square my shoulders and wait for the boys and Joanie to head inside before shooting Patrick a look. Knowing that he needs me right now just as much as I needed him last Sunday, I reach for Nikki’s hand and pull her forward to take the lead.
Coming into the living room, Terry stands up from his place on the couch and I hold my finger up and point to my hair. “Be right back. Nik, you think you can…?” I point to my hair and the bathroom.
She nods and we start to set off towards the restroom, but my mother’s voice stops us in our tracks, “Nora, I’ll help you with that. Patrick join us.”
I really don’t think I’ve heard that tone since high school.
Shooting Nikki an apologetic look, I feel Patrick tug on my jacket sleeve and pull me down the hall into the restroom. My mother’s sitting on the closed toilet and points to the bathtub indicating that we should take a seat.
I take a seat on the edge of the tub and Patrick sits down next to me. The edges of his knees touch the doors of the cabinet underneath the sink across from us. Our mother stands and hands me a wet washcloth. “That should get it out enough so that we don’t have to cut your hair.”
Sighing, I pick the lollipop up and begin a tug-wipe combo that should free up the largest clump the sucker’s stuck to.
“I wanted a private word,” our mother starts out, “I told Terry and Joanie when they came in on Friday night.” Her jaw clenches and releases. “I supposed that fight you got into right before you left for boot camp has been explained.”
“Ma…” Patrick tries to start.
“Don’t interrupt me young man,” she warns. “So, we’re just going to air a few things out, not in front of strangers…”
“Mama, it wasn’t…” I try to explain to her.
“Do you think you can interrupt me when I just told your brother to not do exactly that?” Her foot taps off the linoleum that hasn’t been replaced in twenty-five years. I shake my head. “Good. Now, then, let’s get this straight. I’m so upset at you two for lying to me I could…believe you me, the thought of having you two go pick a switch has crossed my mind a few dozen times.”
She sighs and rolls her eyes at my attempt to remove the sucker. Swatting my hands out of the way, she takes over the task and continues to speak, “But I understand you both are too old for that which is unfortunate for me. Also, just so we’re clear on the whole…” her voice drops to a stage whisper, “gay thing,” and she’s back to her normal volume when she says the rest, “I don’t approve. I don’t like it. I think it’s wrong.”
“Mama, how co…” Patrick stops talking when she pops him in the forehead.
“I warned you,” she growls, “Now zip it and lemme finish. Just ‘cause I don’t think it’s right doesn’t mean that I don’t love you two any less. That being said, I respect your right to live your life like you see fit.” Pain flashes across her face as she chokes out the next few words, “I’ll do my best to get to know your…friends, but I ain’t makin’ any promises either.”
She tugs a little more on my hair and the sucker pulls free. It has only a few strands of hair attached to it. She holds it up and squints at her handy work before dumping it in the waste paper basket. “I expect you to be on your best behavior while your brother’s in town with my grandchildren. Are we clear?”
I’m not too sure what that’s supposed to mean, but given the tone, I readily nod my head. At our agreement, she swings the door open and disappears. Patrick is the first to follow her out and as I stand, Nikki’s head appears around the door frame.
“Sugga?”
I blink and look up from my seat. I shrug. She steps into the small bathroom and closes the door behind her. “You okay?”
I nod again. “Yeah. Just…uh,” I rub at my forehead and try to figure out the last five minutes of my life. Nikki’s hand closes over my left and she leans against my side.
“You wanna cut outta here and take off with me to Puerto Rico?” she asks. Turning into me, her left middle and index finger walk up and down my thigh. “I know where we can score us a boat and the perfect spot on a private beach in San Juan for some clothing optional sunbathing.”
I chuckle and shake my head. “Maybe when we get some more vacation time racked up.”
“Hmmm,” she purrs against my neck. “I will hold you to that, Nora.”
“Come on, crazy, let’s go see what my family’s up to,” I stand and hoist her up. I lean in for a peck and whisper before we leave the safety of the bathroom, “Love you.”
“So,” Terry booms as my mother starts passing around the meatloaf, “What happened to the car, Nora? Last I heard, you were still drivin’ the El Camino around. That Porsche you drove up in, that yours too? Seems a bit above a cop’s pay grade. ”
“The El Camino was involved in a shooting, so they’re holding it in impound until I figure out what to do,” I answer and pass off the mashed potatoes choosing to ignore the last question and the comment that followed.
Terry’s eyebrows rise and motions to Nikki. “You get hurt in it?” Pointing towards the white line along Nikki’s scalp.
“I was it,” she says drolly. My girl hasn’t been too impressed with my brother’s antics thus far.
Truthfully neither have I. When Nikki and I came out of the restroom and stepped into the living room, Joanie was in front of Terry and Chris had a hold of Pat’s arm. I’m not really sure what was said, but neither has said a word to the other since.
“Really?” Terry whistles. “Wow, she let you drive that ridiculous car?”
“My ridiculous what?” I snap.
Terry guffaws, but Patrick, Bobby, Chris and Nikki have the good sense to not say anything.
“Hug, that thing you called a car should have been heaped when you were set up enough to afford a new one,” Terry chuckles.
“I’ll have you know,” I point a finger at him and keep my voice in check because the boys are sitting in the living room, “June Lee was in better damn shape than most cars you could buy brand new.”
Terry makes a face and shakes his. Sucking his teeth, he looks between Nikki and I.
“Nikki,” my mother stops the words forming in Terry’s brain, “I take it you’re all right though? Bobby told me about you being in the hospital. I’m sorry about that.”
Nikki smiles and waves her off. “Fine. Was just cleared for desk duty actually.”
“How nice,” my mom smiles. “And you, Chris, we haven’t really had a chance to chat. What are you going to do here in New Orleans?”
“Hopefully, once we settle on a place and get it together, open up a recording studio and start finding local talent. I’d like to get back to the studio soon.”
“What is it you do?” Joanie asks while spooning some gravy over her potatoes.
“I’m a music producer,” he answers.
“Oh, what kind?” she probes.
Terry stopped talking when Chris started answering questions. Instead, he chose to tuck into his food.
“Different things. Rap, hip-hop, R & B, some pop, rock & roll…I listen to a lot of different types of music so I’ll work with most any genre.”
“Actually, Chris just wrapped up three different projects,” Patrick states proudly.
“Oh, really,” Nikki smirks. “Who?”
“Uh,” Chris blushes a little under the olive skin tone and shrugs, “Uh, Mariah Carey, Garbage and Anna Nalick.”
“I know Mariah Carey, but the other two…” Nikki grins. “But that’s still pretty impressive.”
Chris shrugs, “Mariah’s album is due out this year. Hopefully they’ll finish up Garbage’s and Anna’s. They are both pretty great. Uh,” he drums his fingers against his forehead thinking. “Uhm, Garbage’s drummer, Butch Vig…you guys know Nirvana?” he asks, looking around the room expectantly.
I nod, Nikki does, but Terry looks a blankly at him. At least his wife nods.
“Butch Vig produced Nirvana’s breakout album Nevermind. If that helps at all. Anna’s more up and coming. Great voice, decent writer. Eric and I were gonna spend more time with her, but things happened with the move quicker than I’d have liked.”
“How so?” my mom asks.
“Well, the house sold quicker than we thought. My mom moved to New York to be with her sister. It lined up just right. And really, my job’s more about taking the talent that comes into the studio and refining it. Helping the artist make decisions about what they want their work to sound like, feel like.”
“Well,” my mother says, “It’s sounds like you really love what you do.”
Chris bobs his head. “Most of the time.” He winks at my mom and she smiles.
“So have you decided on where you’re going to look for a house?” My mom tries to keep the conversation going as the clatter of silver wear gets a little louder. Terry’s fork scrapes across the plate.
I’ve seen suspects in a box look less tense.
I shoot a look to Patrick. The only sign of his nervous tension is where his left arm disappears under the table. Chris’ right is hidden too.
Can’t really blame them, Nikki’s had a death grip on my thigh since the meatloaf was served.
“Mary, Hug and Nik’s realtor, has helped. We went and looked at a few houses in the Garden District that would work,” Patrick answers.
“Bit above your pay grade ain’t it, sergeant?” Terry sneers.
“I don’t think my income’s much of your business, Terry.” Patrick lets it go and directs the conversation back to mom and Joanie. “We want something that’ll be comfortable. Large enough for a few dogs.”
“And a few kids, soon.” Chris turns an upturned eyebrow to his partner.
Patrick actually blushes, but manages a practiced sigh.
“Really?” My mother’s face lights up. “Chris you shouldn’t play with an old woman’s heart. I would love more grandkids.”
“He wanted dogs,” Chris hooks a thumb at Pat and rolls his eyes. “We compromised. I get kids and he gets some dogs, but I’m sure he’ll be fine.”
The news causes my mom to turn a look to me and then to Nikki. I begin shaking my head. “Hey don’t get your hopes up ma. We aren’t even close to discussing the idea of children.”
Her face falls a little, but she relents and says, “Well at least I’ll have two sets of grandkids to spoil instead of just the one.”
With that, Terry’s silverware clatters to his plate. “You know what; I’ve just about had enough. We can l sit here all day and pretend and make nice about how no one here thinks that what’s going on is even remotely right! You can’t bring kids in to a morally bankrupt home. Either of you. Raisin’ kids in that type of environment…” His jaw clenches and he spits, “damn faggots and dykes raising kids. Dad was right, fuckers should just be put down.”
Somewhere between the silverware dropping and the end of Terry’s outburst it feels like the air’s been sucked out of the room, but it doesn’t stop my movements. I’m standing over his chair and he’s pushing back, standing toe to toe with me. Terry isn’t much taller than Bobby, which is good for me ‘cause Bobby and I are nearly eye to eye.
In the background, below the rushing in my ears and my heavy breathing, I hear a few voices calling out. To me or to Terry, I’m not sure which. Right now it doesn’t matter. I stand facing off against my brother. Body tense, eyes locked. I was expecting something from him.
Not this.
Not the hate I heard in his voice.
It’s Bobby that gets between us. His forearm pushes against my chest and I stumble back into Nikki. “I’ve had enough of this!” my younger brother barks. “You know, I’ve had to deal with this the longest out of everyone here. Keeping secrets for Nora, keeping things from mom and you two!” He points between Patrick and Terry. “Well, you know what I’ve had enough. You’re an asshole Terry. Always have been and my guess always will be. You come around when it’s convenient or when you can inflict the most damage, well I ain’t takin’ it anymore! So siddown, shut up and keep your opinion to yourself or I’ll shut it for you!”
“You gonna what?” Terry sneers while Joanie pulls on his arm with little affect.
“I. Will. Shut. Your. Mouth. For. You.” My brother punctuates the statement with a poke to Terry’s chest. “You ain’t gonna come here and tear us apart. If you’d get over whatever stupid bullshit dad put in your head you’d see that your family isn’t half bad.”
Terry’s chin pushes up and he taunts, “Why Bobby you like takin’ it up the ass too? Figures you fuckin’ fruit.”
“Enough!” my mom yells and steps between her two sons. I want to go over but Nikki’s hand is firmly holding onto my upper arm. Chris has an equally tight grip on Patrick. “Now all of you sit right back down. Terry Joseph I suggest you keep that mouth of yours shut before I let your brothers and sister shut it for you. If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” Her knuckle digs into his shoulder until she forces him backwards and into his seat.
“Joanie, keep your husband on a short leash. You two may have issues with…” she waves a hand at my side of the table, “but you will respect this house and this family. Your father did enough damage with his opinions. I will have my family together for rest of the time I have left. Do you understand me Patrick, Terry, Bobby and Nora? You will get along. You will love each other and you will respect each other or I will bend each and every one of you over my knee. And no I don’t care how old you are. I brought all of you into this world and I can damn sure take all four of you out!”
Nikki tugs on my arm and pulls me back to my seat. The look in her eyes is murderous, but she leans in and whispers, “Let’s get through this for your mother. Then we leave.”
I nod quickly and look to Patrick; the muscles in his jaw are knotted. I shake my head at him and he sighs. We’ve got an hour tops before we can leave.
This can’t end soon enough.
Next>>>