Stern Men Always Finish Last

Chapter 1

A/N: There are no changes if you have already read this. Some users could not see the chapter, so I'm re-posting to see if it fixes the problem. 

I am a patient man. A far too patient man if I am being honest with myself. While I am thrilled that relationships are progressing between my family members and Miss Sorenson, I don't know how many more conversations regarding their advances in a physical relationship I can take. Which brings me back to my current conversation with Dr. Green. Sean. My best friend and closest confidant. He was going on about his latest date with his "Pookie" and I had all I could do to not punch him. I am not jealous of my best friend. I am not jealous of my best friend. I am not jealous of my best friend. Oh, forget this. I am extremely jealous of my best friend.

"Earth to Owen? Are you in there? You're not normally one to space out on a conversation and certainly not when there is an opportunity to get in a good natured ribbing at me. What's wrong?" Sean's change in tone from teasing to concerned finally broke my inner turmoil.

After a long pause I went with the truth. "It's Miss Sorenson." I've barely finished my sentence when Sean starts in, "What about Sang? What happened to Pookie? I just left her. Owen, start talking!" Sean's volume continued to rise.

Letting out another deep breath I continue, "Calm down. Nothing is wrong with Miss Sorenson. She's fine. I just... I don't...I shouldn't..."

"Owen?" Sean prompts softly.

With a defeated sigh, "Just let me get through this Sean, ok?" When he nods his agreement, I take a deep breath and begin. "I believe in the plan. I want each of us to be happy with Miss Sorenson and I want Miss Sorenson to be happy with each of us. Under normal circumstances hearing about the dates and kissing... and... the touching wouldn't bother me. But for some reason, I can't think straight today. I hear you talk about your date with Miss Sorenson and all I can think is, when's mine? She's beguiles me, Sean. I can't seem to focus any more. I want that physical relationship with her so much... and... and I can't quite figure out how to get there." I finish in a whisper so soft I'm not certain he heard me.

"Oh, just stoup her already!" Sean exclaims with a Cheshire cat grin on his face. Well, that answers that question, he definitely heard me. After I pick my jaw off the floor, "You do have a way with words, Sean. But I'm afraid, that I can't seem to get past hand holding, let alone to the promise land." The look of shock on his face is worth my momentary lapse of decorum. "Owen, honestly, just ask her out. If you want past the platonic touches, you are going to have to make a move. I've never seen you so scared of a little girl before." As I glare at Sean, I remind myself to give North a few extra surveillance jobs for ever insinuating that I was scared of someone as small as Miss Sorenson. Before I have a chance to respond Sean continues, "And I don't mean another Sunday Brunch. Step up your game or get left behind."

Oh,I don't plan on being left behind, Sean. Of that you can be certain my friend.