Kelly, John, and Sarah joined them with little Mikey.
“Well, you guys have officially moved in together,” Kelly said.
“We have.” Bernard kissed Rory.
“How does it feel?” Sarah asked.
“It’ll take getting used to,” Rory said, “since I left home, I’ve lived alone. This will be a pleasant change.”
They watched Mikey run around with Ginger. She’d run and hide from him. When he found her under the table or a chair, she’d scoot off to another location.
“We’re having a party tonight,” Sarah said. “You’re welcome to join us.”
“What do you think?” Bernard asked Rory.
“I think I’m exhausted,” Rory said.
“I think we’re going to stay in tonight,” Bernard said. “We’ve had a lot happen over the last month.”
“I don’t blame you,” John said, “but if you change your mind, you’re more than welcome.”
“Thanks,” they both responded.
They said goodbyes, and both collapsed on the couch.
“I don’t feel like cooking,” Rory said.
“How about we order out?” Bernard said.
“Sounds good. What’s open?”
They ordered pizza and watchedNaked Gun 33?on ABC.
“This movie is hilarious,” Rory said. “I mean, what’s better than a comedy?”
“I have to admit, I prefer romances, but this is great.”
Rory fell asleep in his arms. Bernard stroked his hair as the end credits of the movie ran. It was only ten-thirty. He turned off the TV and enjoyed the silence. He had his partner in his arms.
As midnight approached, Bernard shook Rory.
“Hey, sexy bear,” Bernard said. “It’s almost midnight.”
Rory got up and stretched.
“How long was I out?”
“About two hours,” Bernard said.
“You stayed there for two hours while I slept?”
“Yeah. I liked it.”
Bernard changed the channel to the countdown. They watched as the crowd in Times Square shouted down from ten.
Five…four…three…two…one…
“Happy New Year, sweetie,” Bernard said.
