Most Likely to Have a Successful Holiday, Conclusion

Thomas packed turkey, gravy, potatoes, and cranberry sauce into a disposable container and looked down at Clark’s niece. “Anything else?”

Brittany nodded. “Pumpkin pie.”

“Oh, right, how could I forget?” He pulled out a clean container. “Pecan pie too?”

“Uh-huh.” Her pony-tail bobbed. “And apple too.”

“Thought you didn’t like apple?”

“Mommy.”

“Duh,” Thomas said. He took care of the pie slices and then put both containers into a plastic bag. He handed them to Brittany and they left the kitchen.

Clark stood near the front entrance with his sister, Patty, and Matt and Josh. They were all getting ready to go home after a successful holiday meal. As much fun as the day had been, Thomas was pretty glad to see them all leaving. He’d been getting sexy winks from his handsome lover all day. The man was insatiable. Which was very okay as far as Thomas was concerned.

Clark scooped up Brittany. “Okay, sweet pea. You be good for your Mommy.”

“Okay. Are you and Uncle Tommy really coming to our house for Christmas?” Her big eyes were wide and expectant.

“Definitely. Can’t wait.”

Thomas hugged Matt and then Josh. “See you guys Sunday for breakfast. I think I heard Josh was buying.”

“What?” Josh asked, his face blank.

He shrugged. “That’s what Matt said.”

“You’re always starting something, Tommy.” Matt laughed and ushered Josh out the door and in to the slightly crispy night.

When they were all gone, Thomas closed the door behind them and locked it. He leaned against it. “That was fun, but a lot of work. Especially for you. That dinner was amazing.”

Clark smiled. “It wasn’t so tough.” He yawned. “I’m exhausted though. Can we clean the kitchen tomorrow?”

“Thank God you suggested that. I was wondering how I was going to get out of it.” Thomas threw his arms around Clark. “I know what I’m grateful for.”

Clark kissed him, long and sweet. “Me too.” He reached into his pants pocket and pulled out a ring box. He handed it to Thomas.

Thomas took it and stared. “What is this?” His heart hammered hard and fast.

“Open.”

Thomas opened the box, his hand trembling. A masculine, rose-gold band gleamed in the box. His gaze met Clark’s.

“I have one just like it. We may not be able to get married legally, but I thought wearing rings might be nice.”

Thomas felt the sting of tears and his throat clogged, making it hard for him to speak. He nodded and tried not to shake too hard when Clark slipped the band on the ring finger of his left hand.

Clark kissed him. “I also have domestic partnership papers for us to fill out if that’s okay.”

“It’s—it’s very okay.” Thomas hugged him.

Clark squeezed him. “All right, let’s go to bed. That big picture window in our bedroom is calling my name.”