“I want to.”
*
FOR THE NEXTtwo days, Rory cleaned, cooked, and helped Bernard wash up while his medication stabilized him.
Rory held Bernard at night while he slept. He loved it. He wanted to do this for the rest of his life.
Sunday afternoon after church, Rory showed Bernard the greenhouse. He explained how to work the generator and how to set the timers for the sprinklers.
“I love it.” Bernard hugged him. “This is the best gift I could ask for.”
“They all worked hard while we were out to get it ready for you. I just wish…”
“No,” Bernard said. “This is a happy moment. This is so wonderful.”
They kissed. He’d cheered up Bernard. He loved this man and would do anything to make him happy.
Rory helped Bernard plant and set up his greenhouse. They had fun working in the soil and planting carrots, green onions, and zucchini.
“This is going to be an amazing place,” Bernard said. “I can’t thank you and your friends enough.”
“The smile on your face is all the thanks I need.”
They kissed. The passion was back in Bernard’s kisses. It was wonderful to have the man he fell in love with back.
“I should probably call Kelly and get Ginger back,” Bernard said.
“Good idea.”
They called, and Kelly agreed to bring Ginger home.
“Thank you for everything,” Bernard said. He gave Kelly a hug.
“I’m happy to help,” Kelly said.
“I’m going to make burgers for dinner. Do you wanna stay?”
“That sounds good.”
They let the dogs out and ate burgers with chips. Bernard’s appetite had returned. Rory smiled as he ate a third burger.
“So, do you guys have plans for Christmas?” Kelly asked.
“My family does a dinner and midnight mass on Christmas Eve,” Rory said.
“I’m going to my brother’s for Christmas Eve and then I’ll stop by on Christmas morning for breakfast and presents,” Bernard said.
“What about you?” Rory asked.
“I’m spending it with John and Sarah. Sarah’s parents are visiting. So, that’ll be nice.”
“That’s nice,” Rory said.
Kelly glanced at his watch. “I have to head out. I’ll see you guys later. Thanks for dinner.”
They all hugged goodbye.
Rory and Bernard spent the rest of the evening watching old movies and cuddling on the couch.
