Gusmas series Title: Christmas Compromises, part 20 Series: Christmas Compromises Author: Moonbrightnites Prompt: Photo: Ribbons Notes: This is a post-513 series that will include all the prompts
“Of course not.” All traces of the playful tone vanish and Justin’s expression is suddenly serious as a funeral. He reaches out tentative hand, but doesn’t quite make contact. “Brian, no.”
Brian downs the glass in about three seconds. He reaches for the bottle and refills it again.
Justin sighs. “You’re the one who told me,” he protests. “A little gift to yourself, you said. I never mentioned it.” He sighs, watching Brian’s suddenly closed-off expression anxiously. “I’m sorry I said anything. Just forget it, okay?”
Brian swirls the dark-red liquid around a few times before setting the glass aside.
Title: Christmas Compromises, part 21 Series: Christmas Compromises Author: Moonbrightnites Prompt: Tabled Notes: This is a post-513 series that will include all the prompts
“Consider the matter tabled for now.” Brian’s voice is measured and calm, but Justin remains anxious as he watches his partner’s face.
“I’m sorry,” he repeats, holding up a hand to fend off what he knows is coming. “And don’t tell me sorry’s bullshit, either.”
“I won’t.”
“You … won’t?”
Brian shakes his head. “It isn’t always.” He smiles suddenly, a warm and almost sunny smile. “I have learned a few things over the past fifteen years of being with the fount of all things enlightened, you know.”
Justin grins, relieved. “It was bound to rub off on you eventually.”