The Fourth Catch

Chapter 18: A Common Interest

Since Levi had called to invite him to his place.  Brian was a bit skeptical yet to come.  He had all sorts of excuses to give.  Change his mind of going.  But he already knew Jennifer wouldn't allow him to get out of the weekend.  Perhaps he could get on the plane and pretend like he was going to Memphis.  Then once he got there, he could take a few days vacation elsewhere.  Brian knew that wouldn't go well either.  Because Levi already knew Brian was going to be on his way.  So when he didn't show up, naturally Levi would most likely worry and call Jen to let him know.  She wouldn't be very happy with him for skipping out or worrying her.

Brian was aware Levi planned one of two things.  Either a way for him and Mel to meet up to discuss everything.  Or he invited Anthony as an attempt to try and get the two of them to speak.  Which Brian didn't like the idea of either.  He appreciated Melanie's friends were concerned for Mel.  The two of them wanted to help.  Brian hated people who tried to meddle in other people's situations.  It only seemed to make things worse instead of better.  Not to mention, Brian didn't know Levi very well.  He only heard of Levi and Victoria time to time from Jennifer talking to him.  After she talked to him about what happened when she visited Mel.

As the taxi driver got closer to Levi's street.  Brian began to grow a little nervous.  He wasn't sure what he would say to either one of them.  He did miss speaking with his daughter.  Brian knew that would certainly be easier than trying to find a conversation starter with Anthony.  After the taxi driver pulled the cab over to a stop.  He got out and paid the driver.  Once he got his suitcase, he made his way upto the small flight of steps leading to the door.

"You must be Brian.."  Levi stated after he opened the door.  Levi never seen a photo of Mel's father.  Only heard him being spoken of.  Brian studied the man after he closed the door.  Clearing his throat before he spoke.  "Yes that is correct."  He set his suitcase down then extended his hand.  Doing his best as Jen asked, to be nice.  "It is finally nice to meet you."  Levi studied the man in return before he extended his hand as well to accept the handshake.  "It is nice to meet you also."  Once the two men pulled their hands away, Levi stepped aside so Brian could walk in.  He felt a bit awkward at this invitation.  But it was the only way he was going to get Brian to speak with Anthony.

Levi didn't know a whole lot.  What he gathered from Victoria was, Melanie and her father weren't getting along due to the fact she was with Anthony.  Victoria didn't know the reasoning why either of Mel's parents didn't seem to get along with their friend.  But she had made the hint she wanted to try to fix it.  So Levi thought it was best he did the meddling instead of Victoria.  Because knowing her personality.  Levi knew she sometimes went too extreme.  And was concerned the situation would be worse.  Levi thought it was best he tried first before Victoria did.  Even if it was strange for him as well to invite some strange man in his home.  He should've thought it through better and most likely should've invited both the parents.  Or just Mel to join her father also.  Have Mel waiting for him here before Brian arrived.  Though he didn't want Melanie mad at him.  So Levi assumed it was best to try to get Anthony and Brian alone first to speak before dragging in the others.

"Come on in."  Levi said as he waved his hand slightly to motion Brian inside.  Brian grabbed his suitcase before stepping further into the house.  "Thank you."  He grew quiet a moment as he took a small glance around.  Which made Levi more anxious.  Though Victoria kept the house well organized.  He was horrible with meeting new people, making a good first impression.

"Can I get you anything for food or drink?"  He asked.  Brian shook his head.  "I had a small snack on the plane.  So I am full.  Thank you though."  Levi nodded watching as Brian set his suitcase down.  "I can take that for you and show you where you can stay."  "Oh, I can take this.."  Brian said as he grabbed his suitcase then waited for Levi to show him to the guest room.  Levi shrugged as he watched Brian take his luggage then began to make his way down the hall into the extra room.