Chapter 11 - 'Conversations' (a week later)
Spencer's POV: After work and hours of shopping for presents, I arrive at Toby's for dinner. Upon walking in, I'm stunned by what I see. The apartment looks like a scene from 'It's a wonderful life'. Stockings on the walls, lights all around, Christmas music fills the air, and the Pièce de résistance; a beautiful Christmas tree. In awe, I toss my keys on the kitchen counter and move towards the tree. "Finally got it up. And it didn't fall on me this time." I turn around to see a smiling Toby on crutches. "How did you do all of this on crutches?" I ask as I help him to the couch. "It took--longer than usual." Toby laughs and smile happily. "Well, it's beautiful, Mr. Martha Stewart." I tease and Toby playfully punches my arm. "I also found the 'perfect' Christmas gift for you." Toby smirks as he leans back on the couch. "Ooo, you did?" "Yes but you don't get it until Christmas." Toby interrupts. "Ugh, you're no fun. To be honest, I've looked everywhere and still haven't found the perfect gift for you." I pout. "Yes you have." Toby whispers and I confusedly look into his eyes. Suddenly, he places his large right hand on my stomach. "Spencer, you've given me the greatest gift I'll ever receive. I always think that I couldn't love you more than I already do. I'm always surprised." I look into Toby's eyes and smile at his heartfelt words. "I have something that I want to ask you." I freeze at those words. Was all of this a build up to give me achingly bad news. Not bad news. I can't handle anything else bad happening. Toby takes my hand, looks me in the eyes, and begins to speak...
