Book Review: Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

 

Red, White & Royal Blue     

Author: Casey McQuiston

Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin

American release date:  May 14, 2019

Format/Genre/Length: Hardback/LGBTQ+ Romance/448 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Alex Claremont-Diaz is the FSOTUS – or the first son of the United States. His mother has been elected the first woman president. Alex is a force to be reckoned with—he is both brilliant and wild. Along with his sister June, and Nora, who is the granddaughter of the Vice President, they form quite the merry trio, each of whom is talented in their own way. Not surprisingly,  Alex has definite political aspirations. It must run in his blood, as his father, ex-husband of the President Oscar Diaz, is a senator. The only regret Alex has regarding the election that put his mother into office is that she did not carry their home state of Texas.

Alex is no wilting flower. Far from it, he tends to speak his mind, although he is generally careful of consequences…except when it comes to Henry, Prince of Wales. Alex does not care for this famous Royal, and they exchange a few unkind words, which the press gets wind of. Definitely not good! As penance, the two are forced to show to the world what great friends they are, for the sake of diplomatic relations between the two countries. They are both adept at presenting a friendly face to the press while exchanging rude barbs under their breath.

However, Fate is a funny thing. And what begins as a fake friendship becomes a real one…and much more. So what do you do when you’re the son of the President of the United States and you find yourself in love with not just any guy, but the actual Prince of Wales?

This book is fabulous! I loved every bit of it! I especially loved watching Alex and Henry’s relationship develop and blossom into love, watching them grow as individuals and as a couple! Such a brilliantly written story! This book is filled with memorable characters, both good and bad. It will make you laugh, make you cry, and make you fall in love. I was gifted a copy of the collector’s edition, which not only is signed but contains a bonus chapter in Henry’s POV. What can I say but this book is perfect? I see no flaws, and I will happily read it again. I can only hope there is a series looming in the future. And I want to read more by this author!

 

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #42 (8.5)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #41 (8.5)

“I’m so sorry.” Maureen continued to apologize for her ill-mannered child, even though she clearly wasn’t to blame for his bad behavior. And honestly I couldn’t fault the minister either. Face it, Joe Jr. was just a bad egg.

Ethan, Sarah, and Benny were quick to assure her that his words were not his fault, while I maintained a stoic silence. Both because I didn’t feel it was my place to intrude in this family moment and also because I had nothing but expletives to use regarding him and didn’t think that would be appropriate behavior on my part.

The minister retreated to his study, at least momentarily, leaving the rest of us to ourselves.

“I’m so sorry, where are my manners? I bet you’re all thirsty after your long trip. What can I get you?”

We all protested that we didn’t want to be any trouble but in the end Maureen prevailed, and Benny went into the kitchen with her to help bring out glasses of homemade Southern sweet tea. Not until everyone was settled with their drink, including Alex who was enjoying fruit juice in his special cup Grandma kept just for him, did the conversation return to the original subject of Joe Jr’s missing wife.

“Heather moved out suddenly one day,” Maureen explained. “I don’t know her reasons as I haven’t talked to her. And Joey hasn’t exactly been forthcoming with information.” She sighed. “Haven’t seen her or heard from her since then. Neither has Joe, and you know how close they were.”

Ethan and I exchanged glances but neither of us said a word. Didn’t seem appropriate somehow. Also, what could we say? From where we stood, they seemed closer than close. I didn’t want to be the one to accuse Ethan’s father of infidelity without at least some evidence of it, but they sure gave a good impression of being cheaters.

Well, there was that time we caught them shopping together, back when I was dressed like a woman and Ethan’s mother was in the hospital, before I came out as me. There was a negligee in their cart, a delicate little red thing, it was. And never mind that until we saw them, I had the strangest feeling Ethan was angling to get one of those same skimpy garments for me to wear. Thank goodness, that never happened.  Truth be told, we never did receive an explanation of what was going on that day, and they never offered to explain.  Not like we asked, either. Talk about awkward. I had ended up diffusing the situation by pretending to be hurt, thus drawing Ethan’s attention to something other than his possibly cheating father.

Still, although that in and of itself might look damning—and trust me, it did—I don’t think that testimony would fly in a court of law.

Caught up in my own thoughts, I almost missed what Maureen said next. That Joe’s insurance business had gone belly up (my words, not hers), and that’s why he was back home. Unemployed, without his wife, and generally miserable.

I could have told her he struck me as a very miserable person who deserved everything he got, but I wisely held my tongue.

Evening was already approaching. I hadn’t noticed before but a delicious aroma emanated from the kitchen, one that made my mouth fairly water. And reminded me we had miles to go before we slept, unfortunately. Ethan must have read my mind. We exchanged glances. I could see he felt worse than I did. It wasn’t often he was able to enjoy being in the bosom of his family like this, even if his brother was right upstairs. I liked the way this felt myself, so I could understand he was reluctant to end it.

But it’s also not like we had a choice.

“You’ll stay to dinner, won’t you?” Maureen asked. “I have a pot roast in the oven, with potatoes and vegetables. And I made fresh bread today.”

That sounded so very good.

“Mom, I wish we could—” Ethan’s phone rang, cutting him off mid-sentence. Anderson again? The hairs on the back of my neck stood up in alarm.

Ethan rose and beckoned to me to do the same. He excused us and we headed to the front porch as he answered the call, putting it on speaker for my benefit.

“How far from the hotel are you?” Anderson asked. No hello, no preamble.

“Maybe an hour and a half or so,” Ethan said. “What’s up?”

“I think maybe you should stay away from Atlanta for right now. Maybe for a few days even.”

 to be continued

Now go visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them!

Cia Nordwell

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #36 (7.4)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

For such a short trip, this one feels like it's taking forever! The only benefit is spending time with Ethan's family. But Vinnie is still not sure they're not being stalked. See what's going on in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan! Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #36 (7.4)

We sat and rocked for a minute or two, each man lost in his own thoughts. I was trying to convince myself that Chip was not behind all our misfortunes and was halfway succeeding, when I felt Ethan’s hand on my knee. He’d slid his rocking chair next to mine, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t welcome the comfort of his touch. He didn’t say anything, but I understood everything he meant to convey through his warmth, and I appreciated that.

“So, Benny, have you given any thought about what you’re going to do once all of this is over?” Ethan asked his uncle. Benny didn’t answer right away. I glanced up to find him thoughtfully stroking his beard.

“I’ve thought of little else, to be honest,” he replied. “Before I ran into Connor, I was just basically wandering around, not putting down roots. Seeing the country, so to speak. But that shit gets old, trust me. And it’s a lonely life too.”

My heart went out to the man—he sounded so lost. When Ethan squeezed my hand, I knew he felt much the same way, which only served to reinforce how lucky we were to have each other.

“What’s your degree in?” I asked, hoping to find happier ground.

“Never actually got one,” Benny admitted with a rueful shake of his head. “Went to prison before I graduated. Not that it matters. My major back then was art history.” He snorted. “Wonder what I intended to do with that. Seemed like a good idea at the time, and I guess I had visions of curating the Met or something, but in all reality that degree and fifty cents will just barely get you a cup of coffee. And a not very good one at that.”

That was an incredibly honest observation.

“Luckily, I got the chance to do some studying while I was on the inside. I got smart and signed up for a computer program. Learned enough to keep me going when I got out, along with assorted odd jobs I picked up, depending on where I ended up at any given time. If I thought I could, I’d be more than happy to settle down and actually get a computer degree and do something worthwhile with my life.”

“So why can’t you?”

Ethan’s direct question took me by surprise. He was usually the polite one, while I was considered the mannerless lout in our relationship. But he had said just what I was thinking, before I could say it.

Benny shrugged, but made no immediate reply. A moment passed before he responded. “Maybe it’s not so much if I can do it or not, it’s just that I haven’t decided where I might want to put down roots, you know? I guess that would make a difference in what I decide to do. ”

Just then, Alex came charging around the corner with a happy whoop and a huge grin. He made a beeline for Benny, who pulled the child up onto his lap without hesitation. I glanced around nervously, but my fears were quickly allayed when Sarah herself came into view.

“Hey, I told you not to run,” she scolded her son, but she didn’t really sound angry. Probably an automatic Mom response. “Sorry, Uncle Benny,” she apologized, reaching for Alex, but Benny shook his head.

“He’s good here, it’s okay.”

Sarah bent down and kissed the top of Benny’s head, then Alex’s, before taking another rocking chair. She stretched out her legs with a loud sigh of satisfaction. “I’m not gonna argue.” She laughed.

“So, did I hear you say something about putting down roots?”  Turning serious, this question was clearly addressed to Benny. “What about Imperial? Ever think about going back? Or even Atlanta? It’s close enough to be doable.”

“I’m not sure that’s where I want to be,” Benny said frankly. He resettled himself in his chair. Alex adjusted himself accordingly. Taking the opportunity he saw, he reached for Benny’s red beard and tugged at it.

Too late, Sarah cried out, “Alex, no!”

“Doesn’t hurt,” Benny assured her. “This little fellow couldn’t hurt me if he tried, could you, Alex?”

“No,” Alex agreed, just before tugging at the hair again. I had to refrain from sniggering, and I could feel Ethan silently quivering beside me.

“Maybe someday you’ll have a beard of your own, little man,” Benny said, just before he gently removed Alex’s hand. “But that’s enough for right now, okay?”

Alex didn’t seem to mind. He turned to look at his mother as if to tell her he knew what he was doing. Benny handed him one of the brochures he must have picked up when we entered the building, and Alex seemed satisfied to examine that.

“What about you?” Ethan asked his sister. “You planning to stay with Mercy forever?”

“Of course not,” Sarah replied. I couldn’t help but notice she glanced away from him as she spoke.

“Don’t you have to get back to the museum at some point?” Ethan persisted.

“I don’t know,” Sarah waffled. Judging by her tone of voice, I could tell she wasn’t eager to pursue this particular topic of conversation. Ethan wisely let it go, even though I knew he wanted to find out what was troubling his twin. “Roanoke seems nice,” she unexpectedly added.

Was she suggesting what I thought she was? Ethan and I exchanged surprised glances.

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers:

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #31 (6.6)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

When we left our heroes, they and Ethan's family were stranded, having had the tires of their car slashes! Help will take a few hours, so what to do until then? See what's happening in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #31 (6.6)

It wasn’t long before our most excellent Uber driver dropped us off at the Visitors Center for the Museum.

“You’re gonna have fun,” she assured us in her soft Virginia drawl.

“Can we request you when we’re ready to go back?” Sarah asked, a notion we all seconded.

The driver gave us a rueful grin with a shake of her head. “Sorry, no, unfortunately. But I’ll keep an eye out for y’all when you put in your request and if I’m free, I’ll be happy to come back to getcha.”

That had to be adequate, what else could we do?

Once inside the Visitor’s Center, we paid our admission fees to a friendly young lady behind the desk and began to look around. At the moment, we were the only visitors there, so we had the entire place to ourselves, other than the aforementioned employee.

“I’m afraid there isn’t a lot going on today,” she apologized. “One of our slow days, so no one is around, including the volunteers. But feel free to look around as much as you like.” She was engaged in some kind of needlecraft, which she held inside a hoop on her lap, swiftly plying her nimble needle. “Don’t hesitate to ask for help.” She pointed out a rack containing a multitude of brochures that sat against one wall. We thanked her kindly.

Gotta love Southern hospitality.

Once we’d thoroughly examined the various displays in the Visitors Center, we wandered outside to see the rest of the buildings. There were no organized tours, as such, everyone being free to wander about to their heart’s content, go at their own pace. According to a sign near the barn, at times there were wagon rides, but that was apparently not an option today. Nor were any of the re-enactments available. We might have to make time to come back someday.

Benny offered to carry little Alex, but it soon became clear that he wanted none of that, being full of energy and ready to use it. He set the child on his own two feet and took one hand while Sarah took the other, conveniently sandwiching Alex in between. He seemed satisfied with that arrangement, while Ethan and I walked side by side, bringing up the rear.

I felt a little more relaxed now. There had been no other vehicles in the parking lot, other than the one no doubt belonging to the girl behind the counter. If someone were stalking us, they’d have to do it on foot, and it was very unlikely that was happening.

According to what we read, the restored farmhouse and its nine outbuildings had been preserved rather than reconstructed, dating back to 1897, while the school was from 1894. We learned about the Scotch-Irish and the German settlers who once lived there. I found it very interesting, and I know Ethan did too. Sarah was clearly in her element, as she told Alex stories about what we were looking at. He seemed quite mesmerized himself.

Despite this respite, I noticed Ethan kept an eagle eye on our surroundings at all times. I moved closer to him and dropped my voice, although I was sure the others were too engrossed in checking out the school house to notice. “Do you think we were followed?”

He bit at his lower lip thoughtfully for just a second before he took my hand in his. “I don’t really think so, but I don’t want to be taken unawares either, you know?”

I understood what he meant. Better safe than sorry.

“We’ll have to come back here sometime,” Ethan said. “It’s too bad we missed the wagon ride. Could be romantic.”

I wasn’t sure how romantic riding in the back of a wooden cart on wheels might be, especially if one had to share the pleasure with other people… but I was certainly willing to find out. Hell, I’d do anything that meant spending time with Ethan.

“You and me, always,” he said. Such a mind reader he was. I felt my cheeks warm just before he kissed me, but before we could get carried away, his phone rang. Such an annoying sound.

It was the tire store. Interlude over, back to reality. Ethan thanked the caller than opened up the Uber app and requested a ride. Time to get back on the road.

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

 

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #30 (6.5)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Someone has slashed the tires of Vinnie and Ethan's car! And Vinnie swears he saw Caroline St. Clair in the crowd at the rest area. Could he be right, or is he just a little paranoid? See what's happening in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #30 (6.5)

If I’d been wearing a dress, I’d have followed Sarah inside without a second thought. Okay, maybe it wouldn’t have been that easy, even dressed as a woman. But not dressed as one, I had no option but to wait outside, along with Ethan and Benny and Alex, and hope Sarah didn’t run into any trouble inside. I’m sure Ethan felt the same way, the way he fidgeted, rocking Alex back and forth, his eyes glued to the ladies’ room door. A few minutes that felt like an eternity later Sarah returned, and she was not empty handed.

“I found these inside one of the stalls,” she said, handing the items to Ethan. I recognized them immediately as the coat and scarf I’d seen on that woman earlier. Did that also mean I was correct as to whose clothes they were?

“No one else was in there,” Sarah said. “Only those.”

Damn. What did that even mean? I cast a worried glance at Ethan, whose attention was fixed on the clothes and then on me. “It must be a coincidence, Vin,” he tried to reassure me. “I mean, Caroline’s still locked up, you know that. And if by any chance they would be willing to let her out of the asylum, Troy would let us know, I have no doubt.”

I had no doubt either, but how to explain the clothes being left behind? As if the wearer were afraid she’d been recognized? Or was there something more sinister at work here? What if Chip, aka the Florida Mangler, somehow managed to escape custody and was now stalking us? Maybe I had talked about the insufferable actress after he’d kidnapped me and drugged me and… was I becoming increasingly more paranoid or what? Chip being on the loose would have definitely triggered an alert of the highest magnitude, and Anderson would have called us straightaway.

Of course, that still left us with four slashed tires. Luckily, our employer had us covered. We took seats on a couple of benches in the lobby of the rest area while Ethan called the insurance company and arranged for a tow to the nearest tire store. It was obvious that we couldn’t go with the tow truck driver, there were just too many of us, but Ethan had a solution for that too. Turns out Atkins had actual Uber drivers. We found one with a mini-van who was willing to pick us up. Sarah had the forethought to grab the car seat for Alex, luckily. Ethan asked the driver if she’d mind waiting while we got the car squared away. The man behind the counter said it would be ready in about three hours. What to do in the meantime?

We headed back to the Uber, unsure of our next move.

“Ma’am, we have some time to kill, what would you recommend?” Ethan asked.

The young woman cocked her head thoughtfully. “I like to go to the Settlers Museum when I have the time,” she confided.

The adults exchanged glances at the information. “Sounds good to me,” I volunteered.

“I like museums,” Sarah said. “Obviously. I worked in one.”

“It’s been a long time, I’d like to go,” Benny admitted.

“I think that settles it,” Ethan said as we piled into the mini-van once more. Off to the Settlers Museum of Southwest Virginia!

 to be continued

Now see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

Wednesday Briefs: Rose and Thorne 6 #28 (6.3)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Rose and Thorne 6 #28 (6.3)

As we set out on our road trip, I wondered if traveling with a small child and a woman meant we’d have to make more frequent stops than usual. I didn’t have any experience with children—or women, for that matter, other than my mother, and we were never able to travel—but I had noticed during our brief time with Eva June that she tended to take time out for the ladies room on a fairly regular basis. No criticism, just an observation. We’d only been on the road for maybe an hour and a half when Sarah asked if we’d mind stopping. Ever the gentleman and good brother, Ethan pulled off the highway as soon as he was able and into a small rest area just outside of Atkins, Virginia. Smyth Safety Rest Area read the big blue sign on the small red brick building with arched doorways.

Sarah unbuckled Alex, said she’d be back in a minute, and headed up the steps to the building. Ethan, Benny, and I climbed out of the car and stretched our legs then tossed our trash into nearby receptacles.  I couldn’t help but notice this place boasted of having vending machines.

“Think they might have coffee here?” I asked Ethan hopefully. My first cup of the morning was long gone. He gave me a knowing grin. “What’s that look for?” I asked.

“Oh nothing,” he replied nonchalantly. “Would you like to see if they have any coffee?”

“If it’s not too much of a problem,” I replied. Hey, I could give as good as I got. And, just for the record, this was our normal routine, nothing unusual, although an outsider might think we were sniping at one other. We weren’t.

“I’ll admit I could use some too,” Benny interjected, and that sealed it. The three of us headed up the stairs in search of caffeine. I noticed just outside of the building stood a large wooden map, presumably of Virginia. Inside there was a smaller version, as well as a few travel brochures, no doubt courtesy of the Virginia Tourism Corporation.

I’d taken note of the other cars in the lot when we arrived. There were only a few not surprising as it was a Saturday, and not a particularly warm day at that. Even so, we had Benny to consider. We were his bodyguards, after all. It wasn’t inconceivable that he was being targeted. How they would deduce we were here was a matter for conjecture, but better safe than sorry.

The vending machine selection was limited but adequate to our needs. Three machines stood in one corner of the building. One contained snacks, another one soft drinks and water, and one blessed machine held hot beverages… such as coffee. Actually, it held a surprisingly better selection than that, and I opted for a latte, generously sweetened with extra cream.

Sarah emerged from the ladies room as we stood there, Alex in her arms. He was squirming to get down and walk under his own power, but she seemed reluctant to let him do so. Maybe fear of getting dirty. Or running off. Or maybe it was because we weren’t sure what was going on, the reason for this impromptu road trip. I couldn’t exactly say I blamed her for being cautious.

“Down!” Alex insisted in a determined no-nonsense voice that failed to impress anyone.

“I’ll watch him,” Benny offered.

Sarah eased her son down to the floor and he shot off toward the machine holding the snacks, reaching toward the glass. “Chips!” he said. “I want chips!” He turned expectant eyes toward Benny, who chuckled.

“I think we can do that,” he said before glancing at Sarah, belatedly realizing he should have asked first. “If it’s all right with Mom, I mean.”

“Mama, want chips!” Alex insisted. “Pwease!” He batted his big blue eyes at his mother, and I couldn’t help but think this is what Ethan must have been like as a little boy, and I was instantly enchanted. Sarah obviously felt the same way because she quickly caved.

“Okay,” she said. “What do you say to Uncle Benny?”

Alex looked baffled for a moment. Benny laughed.

“He has nothing to be thankful for yet. What about this kind?” He pointed to something not too spicy and Alex nodded. Benny pulled out a few coins from his pocket, dropped them in and pressed the appropriate buttons. The machine whirred into life and dispensed the correct item without any problems. Benny pulled the bag out and handed it to Alex.

“Thank you, Unka Benny!” Alex cheerfully chirped.

“You’re very welcome, Alex,” Benny responded. He looked wistfully from mother to child. I wondered what was going through his mind. The wasted years when he was estranged from his family? His lack of progeny? Or maybe something entirely different.

“There’s more snacks in the car,” Ethan reminded us. “But we should get going.”

He didn’t say it, but I knew he didn’t want to stay in any one place too long, just in case.

On our way out, I noticed Sarah paused to pick up a couple of the brochures. Ethan stopped beside her. ‘You okay?” he asked in a concerned voice.

His twin looked up at him, shifting Alex on her hip a little. “I will be,” she said after a long moment. “I’m sorry about—”

“No need,” Ethan cut her off. “It’s a done deal. I just want you to be happy, that’s all.”

“I know, and I appreciate that.” Ethan gave her a quick hug, and all was well with the world again. At least for now

 to be continued

Now go visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

Wednesday Briefs: Rose and Thorne 6 #27 (6.2)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

What was originally supposed to be Vinnie and Ethan flying with Uncle Benny to Atlanta has become an actual road trip that includes Ethan's sister and her child. See what's going on in this week's chapter of Rose and Thorne. Don't forget to see what the other Briefers are up to. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Rose and Thorne 6 #27 (6.2)

Ethan turned up the heater in the car as we left the gas station, out of deference to his passengers, I knew. Not that he wouldn’t have done it for me, but I normally didn’t complain about the cold.  The current temperature was only about thirty-five degrees, so pretty chilly for Virginia. I knew it wouldn’t feel so bad once we were on the road and the sun had a real chance to warm everything up. Back in Joliet, we’d consider this a heat wave, especially for February, but Southerners weren’t used to the same frigid temps I’d had to endure growing up. Snow for them was a freak occurrence, one they were seldom prepared for. But both states had one thing in common… motor vehicle operators who had no idea how to handle themselves in the snow. I guess that just goes to show that bad drivers can be found just about anywhere.

To be honest, this whole situation felt completely surreal. Ethan’s sister, uncle, and nephew in the back seat, laughing and chatting and watching little Alex eat his breakfast.  Ethan and I sitting up front, like the old married couple we almost were. We were lucky to have borrowed a car seat from Laverne when we knew Alex was coming, since the Commonwealth of Virginia required all children below the age of seven be properly secured in either a child safety seat or a booster seat. He seemed content to eat his chicken and biscuit. When he was done, and his mother had cleaned him up, she gave him some kind of tablet, to my amazement. Children were learning how to operate computers almost from birth it seemed. No wonder they were so good at it. Alex certainly seemed to enjoy playing with his.

By mutual consent, the subject of the baby daddy was not brought up. I don’t think any of us were prepared to have that particular discussion. Instead, it was happy memories of more innocent times. Benny had been a big part of their lives once he’d gotten out of prison. I imagine Joseph Thorne saw an opportunity to portray himself as a charitable benefactor in the rehabilitation of his brother-in-law. You know, good Christian and all that. Up until the moment when he realized Benny was gay and cast him out. Because that’s what good Christians do.

Sorry, sore subject with me. I shouldn’t paint all Christians with that brush. That’s no better than their open homophobia. In this case, it was the minister just being a bigot, end of story.

They spoke to one another in such loving and familiar terms that my heart swelled just to listen to them. Once upon a time, I might have been bitter and somewhat envious of their obvious closeness and the love they all shared. But having found Ethan, I’d come to know a love I’d never thought possible, and I no longer felt excluded, as I once had. An outsider living on the periphery of everyone else’s existence. I was really and truly loved, and that was the most wonderful feeling in the world.

I couldn’t help but wonder what odd twist of fate had brought us all together, here and now, when our paths had seemed to be set on separate courses but had now converged. Coincidence, of course. I wasn’t so much concerned with the brief appearance of Sarah’s ex as I was with what was going on with Benny. First the fire alarm at the hotel, then the attempt on his life, which I had to assume was targeted at Benny and not just random happenstance. Then the threat at the airport which had necessitated this road trip. Was Benny’s ex really that concerned with the testimony he was about to give, or was there something else going on here that we didn’t fully understand. Either way, I knew we had to be particularly vigilant.

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

Wednesday Briefs: Rose and Thorne 6 #26 (6.1)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Seems like it's one thing after another! Just as they got rid of the baby daddy, now Vinnie and Ethan's boss calls to tell them they can't fly to Atlanta, and Sarah sees this as an opportunity for a road trip! See what's going on in this week's chapter of Rose and Thorne. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!'

Rose and Thorne 6 #26 (6.1)

I wondered if maybe Ethan would change his mind about this proposed road trip the next morning, in the cold hard light of day. But I guess his anger with James hadn’t abated overnight, so at eight AM we were all up, packing our bags into the car and getting ready to head out for Georgia. I’d never appreciate the luggage rack on top of the car before, but I surely did now.

We dropped Benny off with Brendan, along with his assorted toys and food.  Of course introductions were in order, but we kept them as brief as we could without appearing rude, but Brendan understood we needed to get on the road as soon as possible. He was just tickled to meet little Alex and oohed and aahed over him as much as he could. Sarah was disappointed that Troy wasn’t there, once she realized we actually meant the Troy McGarrett, well-known Hollywood heartthrob. But Ethan only snickered and told her she had no chance with Troy, no matter how handsome she thought he was, because at the end of the day he was still gay and very much in a committed relationship. He went on to say that I had a better chance with Troy than she did, which produced raised eyebrows from yours truly and a wink from Ethan. Sarah just stuck out her tongue at both of us and said she didn’t care, she just wanted an autograph.

One promise of an autograph later, along with Sarah’s address, where said autograph could be sent,  we headed to the gas station and filled up the tank before heading inside to see what they had in the way of breakfast.

Sarah protested as she followed us in. “What happened to going out for breakfast?” she queried her brother in obvious disappointment.

“This road trip happened,” Ethan explained as he examined the assortment of hot sandwiches on display. “What do you think Alex might like? How about a chicken sandwich on a biscuit?” Not waiting for a response, he turned to his nephew, held securely in Sarah’s arms so he wouldn’t wander off.. “Want some chicken, little man?”

Alex gave an enthusiastic yes, leaving no doubt as to how he felt about the matter. I wasn’t surprised, as I’d seen him demolish his fair share of chicken tenders while he’d been staying with us. Once breakfast had been selected, along with appropriate beverages and an assortment of snacks for the road, we headed back to the car, Ethan set the odometer at zero, and our trip began.

I offered shotgun to both Sarah and Benny, but both declined, insisting they wanted to catch up on the trip. I wasn’t about to complain at sitting by Ethan, naturally. I told him we could switch drivers in a few hours, but I suspected unless I really complained, that would never happen. In fact, I couldn’t remember a single time I’d ever been behind the wheel when we were together in the car. I always meant to remedy that, but I kept letting it slide to the point where I seldom even thought about it anymore. Ethan had taken upon himself the post of designated driver and, as usual, I had acquiesced to his wishes.

What can I say? I’d do anything to make that man happy.

to be continued

Now go hang out with the other Briefers and see what's what!

I wondered if maybe Ethan would change his mind about this proposed road trip the next morning, in the cold hard light of day. But I guess his anger with James hadn’t abated overnight, so at eight AM we were all up, packing our bags into the car and getting ready to head out for Georgia. I’d never appreciate the luggage rack on top of the car before, but I surely did now.

We dropped Benny off with Brendan, along with his assorted toys and food.  Of course introductions were in order, but we kept them as brief as we could without appearing rude, but Brendan understood we needed to get on the road as soon as possible. He was just tickled to meet little Alex and oohed and aahed over him as much as he could. Sarah was disappointed that Troy wasn’t there, once she realized we actually meant the Troy McGarrett, well-known Hollywood heartthrob. But Ethan only snickered and told her she had no chance with Troy, no matter how handsome she thought he was, because at the end of the day he was still gay and very much in a committed relationship. He went on to say that I had a better chance with Troy than she did, which produced raised eyebrows from yours truly and a wink from Ethan. Sarah just stuck out her tongue at both of us and said she didn’t care, she just wanted an autograph.

One promise of an autograph later, along with Sarah’s address, where said autograph could be sent,  we headed to the gas station and filled up the tank before heading inside to see what they had in the way of breakfast.

Sarah protested as she followed us in. “What happened to going out for breakfast?” she queried her brother in obvious disappointment.

“This road trip happened,” Ethan explained as he examined the assortment of hot sandwiches on display. “What do you think Alex might like? How about a chicken sandwich on a biscuit?” Not waiting for a response, he turned to his nephew, held securely in Sarah’s arms so he wouldn’t wander off.. “Want some chicken, little man?”

Alex gave an enthusiastic yes, leaving no doubt as to how he felt about the matter. I wasn’t surprised, as I’d seen him demolish his fair share of chicken tenders while he’d been staying with us. Once breakfast had been selected, along with appropriate beverages and an assortment of snacks for the road, we headed back to the car, Ethan set the odometer at zero, and our trip began.

I offered shotgun to both Sarah and Benny, but both declined, insisting they wanted to catch up on the trip. I wasn’t about to complain at sitting by Ethan, naturally. I told him we could switch drivers in a few hours, but I suspected unless I really complained, that would never happen. In fact, I couldn’t remember a single time I’d ever been behind the wheel when we were together in the car. I always meant to remedy that, but I kept letting it slide to the point where I seldom even thought about it anymore. Ethan had taken upon himself the post of designated driver and, as usual, I had acquiesced to his wishes.

What can I say? I’d do anything to make that man happy.

Wednesday Briefs: Rose and Thorne 6 #9 (2.5)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day ! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.  

Vinnie and Ethan unexpectedly find Anderson waiting for them, along with a new mission. What's really surprising is that it involves Ethan's Uncle Benny! See what's happening in this week's chapter of Rose and Thorne 6. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them! Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!'

Rose and Thorne 6 #9 (2.5)

Anderson hesitated before responding to Ethan’s question. I could tell he wanted to say yes, but his Southern gentleman manners were holding him back from doing that, and I suspected I knew why that was. “I know your sister’s visiting,” he began instead. Told you. That man was nothing if not polite.

Ethan held up one hand immediately even as he said, “Sarah will understand. She was going home tomorrow anyway. I’ll explain what’s going on to her. There won’t be a problem.”

Especially since she’s mad at you right now.

Of course I never said that aloud. But I’m sure the same thought was flitting through Ethan’s brain.

“Thanks, Ethan. I appreciate that. More than you can imagine.” Anderson sounded relieved. “All things considered, I knew I could count on you. On both of you.”  He rose, just as Alex made an unexpected appearance. He ran into the room, giggling, his frazzled mother just a few steps behind.

“I’m sorry, he got away from me,” she apologized.

“No worries, I was just leaving,” Anderson said. He leaned down and offered his hand to Alex, along with a warm smile. “It was nice meeting you, young man.”

“Nice meeting you,” Alex dutifully echoed as they shook hands. I couldn’t help but think how cute he was. One glance at Ethan’s face and I knew he was thinking the same thing. My mind went back to the unfinished conversation of this morning and instantly doubts began to beset my mind.

Ethan obviously loved kids, so much he was talking about having them. I, of course, was not equipped to give him any. Maybe he was regretting our relationship. Maybe I was holding him back from his true destiny as a father. I didn’t want Ethan to finish out his life with regrets for what might have been, and I didn’t want to be the reason why he didn’t have progeny of his own.

Was I selfless enough to give him up to some woman who could fulfill his need for a child? I’d do just about anything for Ethan, but I didn’t think I could do that.

Lost in my own somber thoughts, I was surprised to glance up and realize Anderson was gone, and Alex was once again in his mother’s loving arms. Whether he liked it or not.

“I understand completely,” Sarah was saying. “Don’t worry about it. Do what you have to do.”

At least she didn’t sound angry. “Let me know what’s going on when you can,” she continued. “And tell Uncle Benny I love him and miss him.”

“I will, don’t worry. Hopefully when this is all over, we can all of us get together and do some serious catching up. We’re past due for that.”

Did all of us include the two Josephs, I couldn’t help but wonder.

“Amen to that,” Sarah fervently agreed. “It’s been too long, hasn’t it?”

“It certainly has.”

A moment of silence followed.

“Ethan, I…”

“Sarah, I…”

Must be that twin thing.

They both laughed, and just like that the tension between them was broken. At least for now.

“You know I only want what’s best for you,” Ethan said. “Both of you. I love you.”

“I know. And I love you too, Ethan.” She hefted Alex up a little higher on her hip as he tried to wriggle out of her grasp.

“Benny!” Alex insisted, pointing toward the kitchen. I suspected Benny was taking a nap, lying in what sun he could find. Part of his daily agenda. But he’d be up for playing if awakened.

“Okay, just a minute,” Sarah soothed her son, before adding for her brother’s benefit, “I won’t do anything foolish or stupid, I promise. Okay?”

“Okay,” Ethan replied. “Just know you can call me any time, day or night, okay? Vinny and I are always here for you, no matter what.”

My heart warmed at his inclusion of me, but I should have known better. That was just how Ethan was. Thoughtful and generous. No wonder that I loved him so very much. Which made the idea that I was potentially holding him back from attaining his heart’s desire all the more painful.

“I know, and I will,” Sarah promised.

“If you like, I can stay at the hotel tonight and you can stay here,” I said. My offer was sincere although I didn’t really want us to separate, even for one night, but I could understand his wanting to spend what time he could with his sister. I was determined to do the right thing, no matter at what cost.

Sarah surprised me by enveloping me in a big hug, one that included Alex apparently, who thought it was funny and hung onto me as well. “You’re so sweet, Vinny, no wonder my brother loves you so much. We’ll be fine, don’t worry. You two just go do your job and watch over Uncle Benny.”

“I’ll call you later,” Ethan promised. “Maybe we can drop you at the airport tomorrow.”

“Okay, if you can,” she agreed. “If not, that’s why they make Ubers, right?” She gave him a quick wink before heading toward the kitchen with the excited Alex.

And now we were alone. And now Ethan was giving me a… look. The kind that meant trouble because I just knew he was going to ask me something tricky. Something I wouldn’t care to answer.

“I think I forgot to make the bed.” I plotted an escape route to the hallway, one that would dazzle Ethan with my speed of execution. But he was faster and blocked my way rather handily, his beautiful blue eyes boring into mine. How could I resist?

“Vinny, what’s the matter?’ he said gently.

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

Wednesday Briefs: Rose and Thorne 6 #3 (1.3)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day ! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.  

Ethan's twin sister Sarah is visiting for a few days, staying with them, along with her young son Alex. But at breakfast, Sarah drops a bombshell on her brother, and Vinnie nervously waits for the fall-out. See what's going on in this week's chapter of Rose and Thorne 6. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Rose and Thorne 6 #3 (1.3)

I had to hand it to Sarah, she didn’t look the least bit taken aback or thrown off by Ethan’s question. Not even the slightest bit embarrassed, either. I could see something of her minister father’s stubbornness in the set of her jaw, the way she held her head high.  “Not long,” she said.

“How long’s not long?” Ethan persisted.

I nibbled on a crisp slice of bacon and wondered if I should leave the room, give the siblings some privacy. I had a feeling Sarah had more to reveal and Ethan just might not like what he was about to hear. On the other hand, that was also a good reason to stay, namely to offer moral support to the man I loved. That brought me to the age-old question—should I stay or should I go? And since it’s easier to do nothing than something, I stayed.

And maybe I was just a touch curious to hear the answer, to be honest.

“We started talking about a year ago,” she finally admitted.

That’s not long?

Sarah’s cheeks began to pink, and her confidence seemed to wane slightly. She turned toward Alex and began to fuss over him. “You done eating? Oh my, such a mess. Let’s get you cleaned up, little man.”

Only then did I notice Benny hovering beside Alex’s chair. And the next moment I knew why, when the toddler let slip another scrap of food. Benny snapped it up before it hit the floor. Ever the opportunist, that Benny.

“Sarah, I don’t understand.”

Sarah swiveled toward her brother with an exasperated sigh. “What’s there not to understand, Ethan? James is Alex’s father. My son has a right to know him, doesn’t he? And maybe, just maybe, I miss him. Love him even. Love doesn’t die simply because someone makes bad choices. James wasn’t ready, I get it. But that was almost four years ago. People change.”

I was listening to Sarah’s words, but my attention was riveted on Ethan. I was afraid he might go ballistic, as odd as that sounds. My Ethan is a quiet man, a very calm man. But when a situation involves someone he loves, he can surprise me. Not now, though.  Quite the contrary. The more she spoke, the more stricken he seemed to be, and that alarmed me.

Sarah rose quietly. She pushed back Alex’s chair and lifted the child into her arms. “Time for a bath, I think. You can play with Benny after that.”

 Alex squirmed momentarily then smiled down at Benny with a knowing grin. “Puppy!” he exclaimed, wriggling his fingers in what could either be good-bye or let me have him now. Hard to tell.

Ethan scooted back his chair, which screeched as it scraped across the tiled floor. He stood and I hastily followed suit. “Have you forgotten how he abandoned you when you needed him most? The horrible things he said? The suggestions he made?”

I had no idea what those suggestions might have been but Sarah’s face turned alarmingly scarlet. What was going on here? I’d never heard such angry words exchanged between these two, who were normally closer than close.  Frankly, I didn’t like it.

“Can you honestly tell me you’re willing to forgive and forget?” Ethan continued relentlessly. “When he’s never been there for you? Not emotionally, physically, or financially? Doesn’t Alex deserve better than that?”

Sarah hitched Alex a little higher on her hip. “Down,” he insisted, but she ignored his command.

“And you think Dad has been all of these things?” she countered. “But we managed to turn out all right.”

I almost interjected with a comment about their brother Joe being an exception to that rule, but decided this wasn’t the time, even if I was right about him, so I kept quiet.

“Tell me something, Ethan,” Sarah said. I had a sudden premonition that what she was going to say wouldn’t be pretty, but I didn’t know how to stem her words, hoping and praying I was wrong and she could never say anything to harm him.

“Are you angrier on my behalf or yours?” She flung the words at him like a challenge, held Alex to her tightly, and made her exit, headed toward the guest room she was occupying.

I didn’t know what she meant, but one look at Ethan’s face told me he did, and she had just wounded him to the quick.

Shit.

 to be continued

Now see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb