The Things That I Know || George Michael

nine - my life and soul

"So," Levi speaks softly, placing down his glass. "This is actually really nice." He settles back into the luxurious crushed velvet armchair he's been fortunate enough to land in, resting his arms behind his head.

"It's all thanks to Mel," George reminds him, taking a sip from his drink; he doesn't intend to consume much alcohol this evening, due to his fear of recreating the evening of his mother's funeral. He figures, however, that a glass or two won't do any harm. "And Tee, and Stella. They're all diamonds for giving us this time together."

"Indeed." Levi glances across the bar, observing the various groups of individuals scattered around the room. "This place is incredibly fancy, don't you think? I almost feel like a peasant in here."

"Behave," George scoffs, swatting the air with his hand dismissively. "You're the most good-looking, sophisticated guy in here. I'm surprised you haven't turned more heads."

"I wouldn't be so certain," Levi smiles; he wouldn't raise awareness to his thoughts, but he is incredibly content with the fact that George seems to be enjoying himself in this moment in time. "You, my darling, would deserve all the attention. Not me."

"Don't put yourself down like that." The sound of a gentleman's voice earns the attention of the couple; they turn their heads, to find a man of about their age — perhaps a few years older — stood above their table. "Sorry to disturb you both. I just had to say how dashing you are."

"W-Well," Levi chokes out; he is surprised that he has gained somebody's attention in this manner. "Thank you. Um, who do we have the pleasure of talking to? I didn't catch your name."

"Handsome guys like you can call me Mack," the man responds; he pulls up another chair, taking a seat with George and Levi. "So, what brings you here?"

"We were just having a few quiet drinks," George answers, with a bite of sarcasm. "And just enjoying a nice evening together. We've not spent much time alone since we've had kids."

"Oh, you have kids too?" Mack sucks air between his teeth, as if this feat is comparable to a prison sentence. "No wonder you both look stressed out. Kids are too much hard work. Especially these days — always whining for their parents' gadgets and the like. I suppose yours are the same?"

"You're rather upfront for a stranger," George comments flatly.

"George," Levi hisses, not wanting to appear rude in front of Mack. "Ours are pretty good, actually," he informs him. "They don't tend to throw tantrums or kick up a fuss if they don't get their own way. They're good kids."

Mack raises his hands in surrender, unashamed of being proven wrong. "That's great for you guys. You must have really raised them well. I applaud you for that." He shakes his head, letting his guard down a little. "Sorry for my prejudice. It's just, I tried kids with my ex-wife. They loved me, until she poisoned them against me. Now they don't want to know me. I suppose I'm just a little bitter about it."

"I'm so sorry you had to go through that," Levi apologises sincerely, furrowing his brows sympathetically. "I couldn't imagine losing my relationship with my kids."

"Well — if one good thing came of it, it made me realise that women aren't my strong point." Mack shrugs, before explaining further. "A few months after the divorce was settled, I realised I was gay. Only took me — what? Forty-five; fifty years of living to finally get the picture. My ex used to say I was a bit slow. I guess she was right."

"Well, at least now you know who you really are," Levi speaks optimistically. "I suppose there's no harm in that."

Mack turns his attention to George momentarily. "Forgive me if you think I'm being too forward," he instructs kindly. "But would you mind if I buy you and your ... "