Under The Mistletoe

Part 24

Surprise

"Makes sense." I sat down with her and took her hand. "I think I do have all the say right now and am very happy that you have given me that. It doesn't just feel that way, that is the way that it is. It is also the way that I need it to be for all of the reasons that I've already explained. As time goes on things will change and you'll eventually be able to tell everyone you love and trust exactly who your boyfriend is. I promise I am trying very hard to let that go. As to the public, I honestly think that it is none of their business who I am dating. But eventually friends and family will need to know. You can't keep telling your family that you are dating someone and not tell them who that someone is, they might start thinking I'm fictional and you are off your rocker."

"Eventually I would like you to meet them too." I sighed. "I know the reasons and I do understand them. I'm sorry I get like this sometimes. I love you so much. It's just hard."

"I know. Okay, I am sure that day will come." I kissed her forehead and smiled. "I love you very much. Now about what you are wearing?"

"Something cute to wear out in public and something for you to enjoy later?"

"Okay. Snuggle with me a few before you head out."

"Mmmkay." I wrapped my arms around him and snuggled in closer to him. I kissed him softly, keeping it light.

I relaxed and gave back to her what she was giving. The kiss was gentle and light and felt every bit of perfect. I held her close for as long as I dared. "You better git, before neither of us does half of what we need to do today. When you're ready I'll walk you to the door."

I got up and grabbed my jacket and purse from the closet. "Let me know what's happening or if you need anything." I made sure I had my keys and my phone. "Alright. I love you. I'll be back in a bit."

"I love you. I'll call Shams in a minute and see about lunch with him. If not it will be just us, not that I have a problem with that at all." I kissed her at the door. "More of your attention just for me and I don't have to try and divide mine or fail at it."

I giggled and kissed him back. I whined as I went out the door and got in my car. I turned on my Christmas music and headed off to my apartment. I made a mental note to check my PO box and set about gathering what I set out to grab. I grabbed my crochet bag with my projects in it. I grabbed the two flat boxes from my underwear drawer. I grabbed the three rolls of wrapping paper and took a look around to make sure I got everything I wanted. I loaded the car, locked up, and headed off to the mall.

I called Shams real quick before getting settled in with auditions and made arrangements to meet for lunch. I told him that I would be introducing him to my girlfriend. I expected to get ribbed about it and was surprised when I didn't. I sent Lizzie a text, Hey, Love. Talked to Shams. We'll meet for lunch downtown at about two. I hope that works for you. Have fun. I miss you already. I'm about to dig into these auditions so I am not likely to look up from the computer again for a couple of hours. I set and alarms so I can be ready to go out. I love you. See you soon. Love & Light, Avi I then settled into the audition videos and made my comments as I went along.

I got his text and smiled. I shot him back a quick message to let him know that I received his. I went and picked up the gift cards I needed to for my mom, my dad, and my brothers. I made them each a hat and scarf set as well. I was hoping to get them in the mail this week. I also ended up getting myself a few sweaters and a couple pairs of leggings. I ran into a few people I knew and talked for a bit, but I watched the time. I headed out to the restaurant Avi had picked and waited in the parking lot until he arrived.

I called Lizzie when I got to the restaurant. "Hey?"

"Hey, sexy. What's up?"

"Not too much. I'm here. Where are you?"

"I'm here too. I am over to the left."

"Oh, Okay. C'mon, let's go meet a couple of my friends. I think you'll like them."

"A couple? On my way."

"Well, yeah. Shams is rarely alone."

"Exciting. See you in 30 seconds."

"Okay." I hung up and got out of the car. I had put on jeans and a button down shirt and my leather jacket. I wet my hair again to get it to curl.

Lord, he looked good. I made my way to him. I was right behind him and there was nobody in earshot. "I was right when I addressed you as sexy. You look yummy, Mr. Kaplan." I walked around to face him. "I missed you."

I hugged her and kissed the top of her head out of habit. "I missed you too. You are so beautiful. You ready for this?"

I nodded. "Yep. I love meeting your friends." He actually took my hand and led me into the restaurant. "I've never been here before."

"I didn't choose it, but we should be able to find you something to eat. They do have chicken. It's a sushi house. Awe don't make that face. It's so cute." I booped her nose as I let her hand go to open the door. I didn't take it back when we went inside. We made our way to the table. I stopped dead in my tracks and stared.

I made a face, because he expected it, but knew I would find something on the menu. I pouted a little when he didn't take my hand back, but I understood. He stopped talking in the middle of a sentence as we made our way to the table. I tried to see what made him stop so suddenly.

"Daddy!"

"Scotty." I about lost my shit at the sight of the man. I met him halfway around the table that was between and was immediately engulfed in his lanky arms. "I missed you." I was shocked as hell. I stuttered and stammered my way through asking about Mitch and how long he'd be there.

He laughed, "Just long enough to say hello."

"Oh," Instantly depressed I smiled. "Well, I'm glad you are here, even if for a second, I need you to meet somebody. I told you about her." I reached back for Lizzie's hand. "Scott, this is Lizzie. Lizzie this is Scott and Matt."

I was surprised at who I was meeting. I wiggled my fingers in hello, unable to speak. I was soon pulled tight into Scott's arms and then Matt's. I found my voice. "It's nice to meet you guys. I love you." I blushed and bit my tongue.

Scott laughed and shook his head at me. "I love you too. I hope he hasn't been throwing too much shade our way."

I shook my head. "I have heard nothing but good things." I stammered and tripped over my words.

I took her hand to steady her and smiled when Scott looked at our linked fingers. His eyes were a shinning knowing blue. "I've missed you big time Avriel, but we have got to get going if we are going to make the flight. "I can't wait to see you again. You should come over next time I'm home. Lizzie, it was a pleasure meeting you. Watch this guy, he's a little on the crazy side of things, but he'll take good care of you if you let him." Scott hugged Lizzie again and Matt waded right in for one too. Then Scott hugged me tightly and kissed my cheek. "Love you."

"Love you too." Then they were gone and I looked at Shams. He just shrugged and laughed. And graciously gave us both some time to recover.