So sorry for the extensively long wait between chapters, I have no excuses, thought I am sorry. This chapter is dedicated to Michelle, sorry it's late, but I hope it worth it. And I huge thanks to M for the beta
The moments before true wakefulness overtake can be very deceiving. Everything was right with the world, lies had no bearing, and familial obligations weren't waiting to be dealt with. Nothing existed beyond the warm cocoon of bedclothes and the soft body lying next to you. Pulling Rory's pliant body deeper into his embrace, Tristan held on for dear life as if subconsciously realizing that everything would change once she knew the truth.
Slowly waking up he looked down at the female that was using his arm as a pillow. Feathering wisps of her hair away from her face he took a moment to bask in the perfection of her features. The vivid blues of Rory's eyes were her most captivating feature. With them hidden behind sleep heavy eyelids he was able to appreciate the dusting of freckles, the peaches and cream complexion and petal soft lips. Using the tip of his finger he traced her lips, causing a chain reaction to occur; goose bumps appeared on her arms, her nose twitched and her eyelids fluttered open.
Before she could even open her mouth to say 'morning, Junior tilted her chin up, capturing her lips in a kiss full of heat, desire and lust. His tongue laved her lower lip asking for entrance, bent on consuming her. When he pulled back his breathing was ragged and the evidence of his hunger was between them pulsing. Nothing warmed her faster than the thought of fulfilling one of her fantasies.
Screwing up the courage she reached down, and encircled him with her hand. He groaned, low and long, as she caressed him. Stroking his length with her fingers, she gave out a little whimper of her own at the feel of satin skin around that rock-hard heat. Somewhere in the recesses of her consciousness she heard the far off ringing of her house phone.
Ring………..Ring……….Ring
Tristan heard the ringing of the phone at the exact same time she did, but he was too far-gone. Capturing her lips in a blistering kiss he made his way to her ear lobe, moving his hips in rhythm with her strokes. Nipping at the soft flesh he murmured, " Let the machine get it." Rolling them so that she was on her back, he knelt between her spread legs. Capturing her randy hands he moved them so that they were up by her head, grasping the rails of her headboard.
Once he had her positioned to his liking he traced the dips and valleys of her body. Looking her in the eyes he reverently told her how beautiful she was. Leaning down he nuzzled her chest, teasing one achingly sensitive nipple with flicks of his tongue. He felt her spear one of her hands in his hair. He pulled back, "Nuh, uh."
"Please…"
Grinning wickedly, "Absolutely. Once your hand is back where it belongs." Feeling a blush spread from her chest upward, she shut her eyes as she grasped the headboard. She flinched at the feel of Junior's lips coving her nipple. His tongue lapped and swirled until he finally drew her into his mouth and suckled.
The pressure and wet heat aroused her to the point of dizziness. Her other nipple ached, needing his attention. As if sensing this he took her pebbled flesh into the steamy confines of his mouth, drawing a deep groan from her. Gasping in pleasure, writhing on the cool sheets was a welcome contrast to the heat burning inside her.
Tristan followed the slope of her breast and the line bisecting her abdomen, peppering kisses around her bellybutton. Using his hands he traced the outside length of her legs, up the inside to her thigh urging her to spread them wider, causing her to whimper in anticipation.
Unable to resist, he slid his fingers into the wet heat of her, teasing her, feeling her shudder in response to the slide of his fingers.
"So wet," he groaned as he played with her slick opening. Gauging her responses, watching as she bit down on her lip, trying to keep the whimpers from escaping her throat."
Ring……Ring………Ring…….
He felt her tense as the phone began to ring again. "Ignore it."
Gasping as her hips writhed against the drag of his fingers, she nodded, "M, m, machine."
Feeling Junior's hot breath against her core caused her eyes to screw up in anticipation. Her body jerked with the first flick of his tongue against her pert little clit. A whimper escaped. She was lost in the feel of his morning stubble abrading the inside of her thighs, lost in the moment, until she was rudely yanked back to reality when her mother's voice filled her bedroom.
"Ror…..Rory! I know you're there. Wake up and wish your beautiful mother a happy birthday."
Feeling Junior lay his forehead against her belly, a wash of disappointment cascaded through her body. Blindly reaching for the phone, "Mom, Happy Birthday."
Thank you daughter of mine. How sad is it that I had to call you to get my birthday greeting? I would have thought I had taught you better. Are you okay? You sound out of breath.
Rory was about to respond when she felt slide of Junior's tongue grazing her. Her breath caught in the back of her throat, "Oh..uh…call back..back later."
Tristan looked up at her with a devilish twinkle in his eye. With one hand under her hips, he reached up with his other to stroke her breast. Causing her to arch against him, her body tense, and he knew she was close. Hearing her slam the phone back down, he dipped his tongue lower, deeper, tasting and teasing her until she anchored her hands in his hair as tremors shook her body.
Hearing a contented sigh escape her lips, he placed a sweet kiss on her belly before rolling off the bed and heading to the bathroom, calling over his shoulder, "Don't forget to call your mom back."
After being in meetings all morning, Chris was exhausted., All he wanted to do was sleep but he still had to meet with Johnston, Murphy and DuGrey.
Glancing at the photo of Rory and Lorelai at the beach fire from last summer, he smiled gently for a moment but alternately was hit with a tidal wave of guilt. Shaking his head he quietly acknowledged how much of Lorelei's party he had left to Rory.
Ding
Looking at the reminder that popped up on the computer screen he saw that he had two approaching appointments. The first was with Tristan DuGrey and the second was his follow up with Dr. Beard.
Calculating how many minutes he had until Tristan arrived, he dialed Rory's number.
You've reached Rory. Sorry I missed your call, but if you leave your name and number I will call you back at my earliest convince. (Beep)
While gazing at the picture of her he left a voicemail on her phone, "Ror- it's dad. I'm so proud of everything that you have accomplished…I'll see you later kid. Love you."
One call down, one to go. Once finding the number of Dylan's Candy Bar, he placed a call to for a special birthday surprise. "Dylan, it's Chris Hayden, I need a delivery made to the house for Lorelai's birthday. Let's see, how about two crates of Mallowmars and one large coke slushy and can you throw in a card saying Happy Birthday baby, and please try for a little self-control, I don't want to find you in a sugar coma when I come home. Love Christopher. Thanks, Dylan, and can you just send the bill to the office?"
Glancing at the computer screen once more, he buzzed Sally. "Would you get DuGrey in here for me? Thanks."
While waiting or his newest employee he sat there thinking of the best way to get the loser away from his daughter and the blond that just walked in was the key to his success in his place.
"Tristan, good to see you. I wanted to make sure that you were on the right track with the Fletchers. Remember, I'm here if you decide that you need the additional support. Speaking of the right track, I want to ensure that you meet the right people to help you along the way."
Something about this didn't feel right to Tristan. "Uh, I appreciate the offer. The Fletchers are coming in with very diversified holdings. There are some suggestions I have for viable alternatives, but I'm always open to suggestions."
They sat there discussing options for the Fletchers' holdings until Sally buzzed in to remind Chris about his doctor's appointment.
Chris walked Tristan to his office door, knowing this was the last chance to mention the party. "Tristan, before you leave, I wanted to invite you to Lorelai's party. It's at the Chanel exhibit at the Met. I would consider it a personal favor if you would attend. So, seven, tonight?"
Trying to be diplomatic when turning down your boss was difficult. "Well, umm I really would like to. I've read nothing but wonderful things about your wife, but I really should take those ideas we talked about to the Fletchers. You know, hit the ground running?"
Everything about this young man impressed Chris. This was the type of man his daughter should meet. Someone who worked hard, and worked well for those depending on him. "Tristan, while I appreciate your devotion and drive, I think the Fletchers can hold off until Monday. I look forward to seeing you tonight and I'm sure you'll enjoy meeting my daughter Rory."
"I'm sure I would enjoy meeting your daughter, but I should also make sure that the plans I have for later this evening will keep. How about I call later today? Again thank you for all the good suggestions this afternoon."
"Sounds good." Watching Tristan walk back towards his office, Chris was hit with a sense of right about this young man. Indeed this was the man for his baby, and he would see to it.
Lane stood in the doorway having an internal debate. On one hand, her boss told her to deliver a message to her supervisor and on the other, she knew this message would affect her best friend. Taking a deep breath she knocked on the door.
Knock, knock
Not bothering to look up from the prospectus, Tristan shouted, "Come in."
"Mr. DuGrey."
Hearing Lane's voice, Tristan looked up from his paperwork, a small frown graced his lips once he saw the pinched, disappointed look on his personal assistance's face.
"Lane, come in. Sit down. Is there anything I can do for you? You look a little troubled."
After taking a deep breath, she just started talking, laying it all out there.
"Tristan, I'm supposed to come in and issue an invitation to Loreali's birthday party from Mr. Hayden. He wants to introduce you to his daughter, Rory. And now that I've done that I'm going to ask a favor of you. I'm going to ask you not to show up. The first time you asked about Rory I told you not to waste your time. It's nothing personal, but I can't tell you how many times Ror has told me she could never see herself with someone who works for her father. She thinks they are all uptight and only worry about appearances and money, not that I think that you're like that at all, but that's what she thinks. I'm not asking this as your assistant, but as her best friend. I'm going to tell you something, and I hope it helps you decided whether you want to attend the party. Rory is happy right now, happier than I have seen her in long time. She met someone, it's new, but she met someone who sees her, not the daughter of a Wall Street Mogul, or the daughter of a famous Fashion designer. You've always said to treat you like a friend, not a supervisor, Mr. Dug….Tristan, don't push this meeting. I love Chris like he was my own father, but his actions are misguided. He may think he knows what's best for his daughter, but in this case, he doesn't."
Tristan sat there gob smacked. He had never seen Lane so impassioned. Before she launched into another rant he tried to formulate a response. "Lane, I understand your position." He took a deep breath trying to quickly formulate a sentence that wouldn't back him into another corner. "Thank you for delivering the invitation from Mr. Hayden, even though it goes against your best friend alliance, which I can totally appreciate. I know coming in here had to be hard for you and I want to ease some of your worries."
"Okay…" nodding along to what Tristan was saying, Lane waited for him to continue talking.
"The day I asked you about Rory, I did want to meet her. She is a very beautiful woman. That aside, I value you, Lane. I would never want to make this an uncomfortable atmosphere for you to work in. It was never my intention to meet Rory. I will tell you what I told Mr. Hayden when he first invited me to Loreali's party." Noticing the look of surprise on Lane's face, he paused.
"Oh, I had no idea he had already invited you."
"Yeah, this afternoon he mentioned it. I told him that I would get back to him with my answer." Picking up the phone he dialed Mr. Hayden's office.
"Hi, Sally, it's Tristan. Is Mr. Hayden available?"
"No, he's at a doctor's appointment, but he did leave a message for you. He told me to tell you that he looks forward to seeing you this evening and that you should get there no later than 7:30 to get there before the crowd converges."
"Oh, uh…okay. Thanks, Sally."
Tristan distractedly hung up the phone, the fleeting thought Well there went that escape plan running through his mind. "Um, Lane, I guess I'll see you tonight."
Confused at the turn of events, Lane cocked her head, "What happened?"
"Well, apparently Mr. Hayden has already left for a doctor's appointment. He left a message basically stating that he expects me to attend, and to get there no later than 7:30. But I give you my word that you will not see me with Rory. I don't want to jinx anything but let's just say that my personal life has undergone a change since I first asked about Rory."
Lane sat there, feeling the blood rush to her face. How could…"Ohmigod Mr. DuGrey, I don't think you know how much I regret my outburst. I came in here ranting like a fool. I sincerely hope you accept my apology." Hanging her head in shame, she felt like crying. Feeling a squeeze on her shoulder she looked up into the amused eyes of her boss.
Smiling, "Don't worry about it, Lane. I just hope Rory realizes what a wonderful friend she has in you."
"Thanks. Umm, I guess I'll see you tonight, Mr. DuGrey."
Nodding in affirmation, he watched Lane disappear out his office. Yeah, not if I can help it.
Susan and her employees had truly out done themselves. Looking around at the extraordinary transformation of the Chanel exhibit Rory was reminded on an article that once described Coco Chanel as audacious, a perfectionist, a unique individual, a passionate woman and a visionary. They had taken all of these adjectives that described a fashion icon, her mother's idol, and applied them to Lorelai Gilmore and her personality. The room was swathed in varying shades of Chanel pink and shades of black. There was glitz and glamour galore. It was Lorelai to at "T".
The party was set to start in one hour; Lorelai was to arrive in and hour and twenty minutes with Chris. All that was left to do were minor last minute checks. As she was loading the slide show, she glanced up and sent a smile Junior's way. He was going over music instructions with the band.
Feeling her gaze on him caused Tristan to pause in his instructions, looking to the side he sent her a quick smile and then went back to talking to the singer, Mike. "So, you know the words to Everything, right?"
"Yeah, no problem," Mike turned to the pianist, "you know the new Buble song don't you Charlie?"
"Yeah."
Tristan was beyond happy. "Great. Okay, I need you to play it relatively early. Rory is going to be playing hostess for most of the night, and I want to make sure we at least dance to this one song. I really appreciate you guys coming out on such short notice."
Bumping knuckles with Tristan, Mike smirked. "Man, Jess told me you were sprung on some chick, but this is sappy, even for you DuGrey."
Glancing over his shoulder to make sure that Rory was far enough away from the conversation, "Dude, watch the name dropping. She doesn't really know my full name and when she does find it out, I want to be the one to tell her."
"Got ya. Don't worry, go help your lady. She looks a little tense. We have the music covered."
After covering all the musical bases Tristan walked back over to Rory. " Babe, you look tense."
Placing his hands on her shoulders he started to knead the stress knot that was forming.
Letting her head droop forward, God, this man has some skillful hands. "I'm a little worried. I haven't heard back from my dad. I called him this afternoon to remind him what time he was supposed to get here with my mom. But still no call." Turning in his embrace, taking all the comfort that Junior so easily gave, she wound her arms around his neck and listened to the steady beat of his heart.
Not thinking through his next response Tristan just spoke, "Didn't he have that doctor's appointment?"
Pushing back to create some distance between their bodies, and look of confusion graced her face, "What? What are you talking about?"
SHIT, Shit, double shit. Think damnit. "Oh, umm. Didn't you say something like that earlier in the week?"
Looking at him like he was crazy. "No."
Tristan could feel sweat breaking out on his temple. So misdirection didn't work; it was now time to try distraction. Glancing around the busy room he got an idea, "You know baby, I never told you how hot you look. Wanna go find a coat closet, scope out a good place for later this evening?"
Taking in the leer that Junior was sending her way, Rory felt a snicker build its way up her throat. "Okay Casanova, we can go find a dark corner, but don't think that we will be putting it to use later on." Lacing her fingers through his, Rory started leading them behind the drop down screen that was to be used for the slide show.
Score, she forgotten about Chris and the doctor's appointment. Following Rory behind the screen Tristan counted his lucky stars.
He couldn't believe how many times fast-talking or distraction had saved his butt. This was the hard part, the constant need to watch every little thing that came out of his mouth. Consciously remembering that his "real-life" could never touch what he was building with Rory. He had to tell her, but not tonight, maybe tomorrow.
The atmosphere at McSorley's was exactly what he needed; a place that often offered conversation if that was what you were looking for. Not that Chris was, he needed the solace McSorley's offered because he could sit at one of the scarred wooden tables without being bothered. He could drink pint after pint of the best ale New York had to offer.
Staring into the amber liquid filling his pint, he tried to pinpoint the exact moment when his life took a sharp left. There had been no pain, no indicators that he was sick. He led a very fulfilled life. His beautiful vibrant wife was his soul mate. She had given him a beautiful daughter, inside and out and together they had made a happy home full of love and laughter. He worked hard to provide for his family, to protect them.
Since leaving David's office, his mind had been racing with unanswered questions. Looking at this watch he pulled out his cell, waiting for Lorelai's voicemail to kick in. "Hey Lor. I'm running late. I know I'm supposed to pick you up, but I'm going to have to meet you at the Met, seven-thirty sharp. And I'm not talking Lorelai seven-thirty, but actual seven-thirty. Love you babe, see you there."
Taking in the other patrons of McSorley's, his gaze landed on a table of what looked to be fraternity boys. Chuckles escaped as he watched one of them hit on the pretty bar maid. Another table caught his eye; this time it was a group of older men, men that looked to be his father's age. This was one of the great things about the Ale House; it was an institution in New York where men and women of all ages came together. There was so much history involved in a place like McSorley's and most of it could be found on the newspaper clipping adorning the walls.
Finishing off the last dregs of his pint, he got up with purpose. He would live this night for Lorelai. His problems could wait until tomorrow, he would gather his family and he would tell them tomorrow.
The party was in full swing when Lorelai walked through the door. Scanning the crowd she looked for her handsome husband, pausing to wave hello to friends. Not having any luck in finding Chris, she started combing the crowd for Rory. The sound of a mic turning on fed over the loud speaker causing her to jerk her attention to the stage.
"Attention ladies and gentlemen. The guest of honor has arrived, and only fifteen minutes later than planned."
Bah dum bum claps and chuckles followed. "No, seriously though. Everyone on the count of three, it's HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
One ……Two……Three ."HAPPY BIRTHDAY" choursed from around the room.
Looking into the laughing face of her daughter, Lorelai curtseyed and waved to her family and friends. Lorelai watched as Rory turned and placed her hand on the arm of a superb pieced of man candy, directing them to her.
"Happy Birthday, Mom!" Gathering her mother in a big hug, she pulled back, smiling.
"Thanks, Kid. This is wonderful." Linking arms with Rory, she turned her speculative gaze to the tall blonde male, "And who might this be? A birthday present for me?" Batting her eyelashes, "Thanks, Ror. Now we have to hurry before my husband shows up and takes you away from me."
Thoroughly captivated by the woman standing before him, Tristan held out his hand chuckling, "Junior DuGrey, it's a pleasure to meet you, Lorelai. I've heard nothing but wonderful things from Rory."
Muttering to Rory just how smooth Junior was, Lorelai allowed him to escort them to their table. Once they were all seated Rory asked the loaded question that had been plaguing her since her mother's arrival. "Where is Dad?"
Waving a dismissive hand back at Rory, "He was running late. Oh! And if he asks, I was here at seven-thirty on the dot."
He could not believe how alike the two women looked. The same chocolate waves of hair, the same startling clear blue eyes twinkled at each other. Realizing that they were both looking at him expectantly, "Oh, sorry. Zoned out there. What were you saying?"
"I was just telling Rory how parched I was and that it would be a great opportunity for you to get us drinks. That way we can talk about how pretty you are while you are gone."
Taking their drink orders, Tristan walked towards the bar; putting a little swagger in his step, knowing the mother daughter duo was watching him.
Rory sat there grinning at the good-natured response from Junior. She had been very hesitant in even thinking about bringing him to the party. "So, mom…go ahead. I know you're waiting for the green light."
Taking in her daughter's flushed complexion and twinkling eyes, Lorelai felt a burst of happiness, near the vicinity of her heart. She hadn't seen Rory look this excited about a man for a long time. "Babe, Junior is as far away from your dad's minions as you can get. And that face…I'm sure to have gorgeous grand-babies."
"Mother!"
"No, seriously though, are you happy?"
Rory sat there thinking, really thinking about what her mom was asking. "I don't think I've ever been this happy. But I don't know if that is a good thing or not."
"What do you mean?"
How could she explain what was going on in her head, let alone her heart? Scanning the crowd for Junior and seeing him in the long line for the bar, she took the opportunity to tell Lorelai her worries.
"What I mean is, he is supposed to be temporary, but he doesn't act like this is temporary. I've told myself to just go with the flow, but I can't fully let myself enjoy it because I'm constantly worrying about the meaning behind his words and actions. I mean, at times he is the text book definition of a bad boy and other times his manners rival those of Grandma Emily."
Lorelai took Rory's hand in hers. "Well, I'm not going to tell you to end this because you are scared. You look happier than I've ever seen you. So what, if Junior is looking at this as more than temporary? I, as you mother, am happy that you aren't just having a hot fling." Sending Rory a sly look, "I'd rather you had a hot relationship."
Her mother could always make her smile, even in the middle of a serious talk. "While I'm happy that you're okay with me being in, as you call it, a 'hot' relationship, I can't help but feel like I don't really know Junior. I never wanted to get involved with someone who was so focused on money or monetary items, but at every turn he has a belonging that I associate with money. He immediately recognized that house we rented in Utah; he has a blackberry - the phone of investors not a guitar player. Oh and not only did he help me organize this shindig, but that tux he is wearing surely doesn't look like it came off the rack. What does your designer eye say about that?"
Using a critical eye, Lorelai looked at the cut and fit of the tux adorning the enigma that was involved with her only daughter. "Okay, so it doesn't look like it came from Men's Warehouse, but how do you know it didn't come from his stint as a singing waiter? All I'm saying Rory, is don't disregard this guy because he isn't falling neatly into some preconceived box that you've labeled "Junior – Bad Boy", He is a person and people have many layers. Take the time to get to know him, and don't keep him from knowing the real you because you are shielding your heart from someone "temporary." You never know how long people are supposed to be in your life, you just have to appreciate them while they are, learn from them because every experience you have shapes you into the person you are supposed to be."
Pulling each other into a tight hug, Rory thanked her for the advice. Looking over Rory's shoulder Lorelai noticed Junior making his way back to the table. "Here comes your man. Now it's a party and I expect you to have some fun."
Arriving back at the table he placed their drinks down. As the first few chords of Everything began, Tristan asked to steal Rory away for a moment, "You don't mind do you, Lorelai?"
The original version of Rory's eyes twinkled at him. "Nope, not at all. She's all yours as long as you don't mind your toes stepped on."
Enveloping Rory's hand in his, he gently steered them onto the dance floor, keeping an eye out for either Chris or Lane. "I picked this song out for you."
Smiling softly, "Just remember my mom's warning. I apologize in advance for the torture your toes are about to experience."
You're a falling star; You're the get away car.
You're the line in the sand when I go too far.
You're the swimming pool, on an August day.
And You're the perfect thing to see.
He reached out gathering her slight body closer to his. Nuzzling behind her ear, finding the place where the scent of gardenias was always present.
And you play your card, but it's kinda cute.
Ah, when you smile at me you know exactly what you do.
Baby don't pretend, that you don't know it's true.
Cause you can see it when I look at you.
Running her fingers though the short hair at the nape of his neck, Rory listened to the lyrics of the song. "Whose song is this?"
"It's Michael Buble. It's called Everything."
And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times
It's you, it's you, You make me sing.
You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.
A little shocked that her rock-and–roll man would listen to the young big band singer more than surprised her. "I never would have pictured you as a Michael Buble fan."
You're a carousel, you're a wishing well,
And you light me up, when you ring my bell.
You're a mystery, you're from outer space,
You're every minute of my everyday.
"Ah, let me guess, you thought my musical knowledge spanned rock and alt rock, but I actually have very eclectic taste in music." Smirking down at her, he ghosted a kiss across her forehead. "I know a lot about music and artists."
And I can't believe, uh that I'm your man,
And I get to kiss you baby just because I can.
Whatever comes our way, ah we'll see it through,
And you know that's what our love can do.
Not one to let an opportunity pass her by, she quickly thought of some of the interesting tid bits of musical knowledge she had acquired through her audiophile best friend. "Okay mister, what popular singer's first name is Polly?"
And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times
It's you, it's you, You make me sing
You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.
So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La
So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La
Polly…. Polly. Furrowing his brow he tried to think of potential Pollys but none came to mind. "Well, the only Polly I can think of is Polly Pocket and I'm guessing that isn't the answer."
Rory felt a giggle bubble up before she could stop herself, "Eerrrnh, wrong! The Polly we are looking for is Polly Jean Harvey. Her first band was named P.J. Harvey. Thanks for playing but your lose!"
And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times
It's you, it's you, You make me sing.
You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.
You're every song, and I sing along.
Cause you're my everything.
yeah, yeah
Laughing out loud, Tristan spun her out and then back into his embrace. "Okay, Miss Smarty-pants, I have one you won't be able to answer and if you don't you have to admit that I am master of all. Deal?" Sealing the deal with a kiss she looked up at him, "You have yourself a deal."
So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La
So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La
"Okay, what song did Randy Brachman write as a practical joke on his stuttering brother?"
As soon as she heard the question, she knew she had lost. "Uh, that's not fair. I don't have the slightest idea."
Smirking, he spun her out one last time before gathering her close murmuring, "Well, just call me Master. The song is a little something called You Ain'tSeen Nothing Yet."
As the last few notes of the song played out, Tristan slowly lowered his lips, using them to tease the corners of her mouth, brushing softly against her full silky lower lip. Somehow she didn't feel uncomfortable standing in the middle of a crowd allowing family friends and acquaintances to see her getting thoroughly kissed by the tall blonde man.
Lorelai watched Rory and Junior on the dance floor. She had never seen her baby looking happier. Her birthday celebration was close to perfect; the only thing missing was her husband. Glancing at her watch, it was going on eight thirty. Chris should be arriving in a few minutes. Feeling the table shift, she looked up to see Junior seating Rory at the table.
"Lorelai, I'm going to go get Rory a drink. Can I get you anything?"
Thinking for a moment, "Yeah, a vodka martini, two olives would be great." Knowing that Rory's vice was good champagne she asked the duo, "Do you guys want to get a bottle of champagne?"
And excited grin appeared on Rory's face, "Oh, yes. Please"
Tristan stood there looking back and forth between mother and daughter and the excited looks gracing their faces, "Okay, um any specific kind I'm supposed to request?"
Not one to miss an opportunity to lovingly embarrass her daughter, "Well Junior, if you plan on taking my daughter home to do unspeakable things to her," at this point Lorelai had to dodge Rory's failing attempts to cover her mouth, "you must, must know that her one true weakness is a good quality champagne. Now, which one would you order?"
Grinning at the antics of the older women and the embarrassed flush on Rory's cheeks, "Um, I'm going to have to go with a magnum of Louis Roederer Cristal."
Turning to address her red-faced daughter she smiled, "Ah honey, you lucked out. He doesn't just have a cute face," turning to give him a speculative look, "but he also has the ability to please a woman, and I'm guessing not just in bed."
When her mother got going it was hard to stop her, but the last comment was just too much, even by Lorelai standards hissing at her, "Mother."
"Uh oh, Junior, I think my daughter wants to have a word with me." Making a shooing motion at him, "if you want to keep the lady like image of her in your mind you might want to make for the bar."
Tristan shook his head at their antic, but wisely took the word of advice. "Alright ladies, I'll be back in a few."
"Ror, I'm sure you're embarrassed and yes my last quip was a little over the line, but don't you love watching that man walk away?"
Unable to keep the startled giggle from escaping, Rory shook her head and lay her cheek on her mother's shoulder. Had anyone been looking at the mother daughter duo, they would have seen appreciative looks on both of their faces.
Christopher Hayden stood in the archway that led to the party being held in his wife's honor, glancing at the clock displayed on the wall he noted that he was only two and a half hours late. It was going on ten o'clock and while his wife understood that business got in the way, there was no way that Lorelai would be happy with him. Luckily he had spoken with her at 9 and she said that they would hold the cake until he got there, but that he better not get there any later than ten should he want to sleep in their bed in the foreseeable future.
Seeing his wife sitting at a table with Rory, Lane and what looked to be three empty bottles of champagne he strode towards them, but not before jostling a blonde man who was talking to Calvin Klein. "Oh, my apologies…is that you, Tristan?"
As soon as he heard the voice behind him, Tristan tensed. It was time for some fancy footwork, he needed to "show-up" for his boss, but at all costs keep Rory from seeing him talking to her father. "Ah, yes it is Mr. Hayden." Turning and excusing himself from Mr. Klein he focused his attention on his boss. "So, how has the party been? This is the first time that I've seen you tonight."
Not wanting to have to explain his absence to Tristan, Chris chose to give a rather vague answer, "Ah, well it seems to be going well."
Trying to mask the curiosity he felt, Tristan continued talking to his boss while keeping an eye out for Rory. All was going okay until he saw Lane come into his field of vision. Even from thirty paces away, he could see her eyes widen behind her black-framed glasses. "Ah, here's Lane."
Turning to see his other daughter, Chris gave her a hug. "Laney. You look beautiful tonight. Is Dave here?"
Keeping her eyes trained on Tristan, "Oh yes. He's keeping Rory and Lorelai company. They've had a lot of champagne tonight." Turning to look at Chris she felt satisfaction at being able to say, "We are waiting to meet Rory's date, Junior. From what I hear from them, he's a total hottie."
Tristan stood there feeling as if his tie was strangling him. "Lane, Mr. Hayden is right. You do look lovely tonight." Sensing that Chris was about to excuse himself, Tristan quickly drew him back into conversation. "Well, you two. It was lovely to see you. I'm glad that I decided to stop by after my dinner plans, but I really should be heading out. I have a busy day ahead of me tomorrow."
While Chris was impatient to get to Lorelai, since he was already so late, he was also anxious to introduce Rory to Tristan, but before he could say anything Lane had jumped into the conversation.
"We'll be sure to keep a piece of cake for you Tristan." Looking back over her should at Dave, "I hope you have a good evening. I'll see you Monday morning, bright and early. Come on Chris, I'm sure Lorelai is waiting for you."
Well, there when that opportunity, before the petite woman dragged him away, he held out his hand to Tristan, "Goodnight Tristan. We'll have to set up a dinner or something. That way you have the opportunity to meet Rory."
After bidding Chris and Lane goodbye, Tristan let out a deep exhale, feeling some of the tension in his shoulders loosen. Now he just had to figure out how to co-exist at the same party without them knowing about it.
The lights dimmed and the beginning notes of the birthday song swelled through the room. Watching as her father pushed out the three-tiered cake on a cart, a large smile broke across her and her mother's face.
Chris walked around the cake as the singing neared the end, brushing a sweet kiss across Lorelai's cheek. "Happy Birthday, Baby. I'm so sorry that I'm late. Make you're wish," he whispered into her ear.
Not one easily reduced to tears, never the less they filled Lorelai's eyes as she looked around the room at all her friends and family that had gathered to celebrate her birthday. Grasping the hands of both Rory and Chris, she took a deep breath and blew out the candles to a resounding cheer.
The crowd surged forward to engulf Lorelai and Chris in birthday well wishes and hugs, Rory stood there happy that the party was a huge success. She and her father really owed Junior a big thank you. Thinking about that triggered the fact, that she hadn't seen him for a while. "I wonder where he is?" she muttered softly.
Seeing that his opening had come while the crowd occupied Rory's parents, Tristan circled the room in order to come up behind Rory and still keep them in his eyesight. Wrapping his arms around Rory's waist from behind, Tristan dropped a kiss on the side of neck. "I take it the dark headed man with your mom is your father?"
"Yup," she replied as she turned in him embrace. "Once he isn't bogged down with friends and family, I'll introduce you to each other."
Tristan ended up playing a very stressful game of cat and mouse, Leaving every time either Chris or Lane approached Rory.
Chris had yet to meet Rory's date, and he was looking forward to it like he was with his appointment with Dr. Beard next Tuesday. Finally catching sight of Rory coming from the bar, he asked, " Oh daughter, do you want to take a spin with your old man?"
After placing her drink on the nearest table, she followed her father out onto the dance floor. "I'm glad you could finally make it, Dad."
As they danced to Smile, Chris worked up the nerve to apologize. "So am I, Ror. So am I. I owe you a huge apology and I hope you will forgive me. I left this party planning up to you, and you more than made up for my absence."
"Oh, daddy. You are totally forgiven. I'm just glad that you showed up and made Mom's night special."
Spinning Rory out and back in, Chris finally asked about the elephant in the room, "So, where's the "hottie" Lane kept yammering about?"
"Oh, he's around here somewhere. You owe him a huge thank you also. He was the one who helped me with the bulk of the planning. I don't know that I would have gotten everything done without his help."
As the song ended, Chris apologized one last time before ensuring that Rory would come to the house for a family brunch on Sunday.
"I'll be there with bells on. I'll see you later, Daddy. I'm going to find Junior."
Rory finally found Junior in the long line for the bar. "Hey, Mister. Would you order me a white wine when it's your turn? I'm going to run to the ladies'," going up on her tip-toes, she brushed a kiss across his cheek, "Thank you so much for coming tonight. It really did me a lot to me that you came, and my mother is half in love with you."
Tristan pulled her in for a real kiss, and then replied, "I'm glad too. Now run, and hopefully I'll be out of the line when you get back."
He really should feel guilty at the ruse he was involved in, but seeing Rory's glowing face was worth all of the tension he was feeling. He did the right thing by holding off in telling her the truth. Had he told her the truth; he never would have come to the party and learned so much about her.
Spotting her blue dress coming out of the bathroom door, he was about to walk over when he saw her pause to talk to someone and then he heard it. He heard Lane's voice over the low rumble of the crowd. As per their agreement, he wasn't supposed to "meet" Rory and he should have already left, so he slowly moved sideways into the shadows, getting lost in the crowd of partygoers. He stood there safely watching Rory and Lane talking. Wishing to be beside Rory more than he would allow himself to acknowledge.
Rory, made a slow circle, looking for him before shrugging as if to say she didn't know where he went and resumed her conversation with Lane. Tristan wiped his damp palms on his pant legs. That was a close call. I'll have to keep a look out for Lane.
As soon as Lane and her boyfriend moved out onto the dance floor he went back to Rory's side. He was a ball of tension and he took the opportunity to convince Rory that it was time to leave.
"Junior, Finally! You just missed meeting Lane and Dave. Where did you go?"
"Oh, I thought I felt my phone vibrating, but no worries. I'm sure I'll get the chance to meet Lane another time."
Leaning up for a quick kiss, "Yeah, I'm sure you will. Now, about this vibrating phone…."
Catching the mischievous glint in her blue eyes, he grinned at her. "Ahh, yes. Well, since someone left me high and dry this morning, it is what I've been reduced to."
A shocked giggle erupted from her, smoothing her palm down the length of his silver tie, she grabbed the end and pulled him down to hear level whispering into his ear. "Well, let's just say that if you want vibrating, I have something for you when we get back to my place."
Grinning at the scandalized look on his face, she took his hand and started leading him through the crowd. "Let's go find Mom, and see if my dad has made it yet."
"Okay, I don't mean to cut the evening short, but I need to get to the store early tomorrow. So, would you mind if we cut out soon?"
"Oh gosh," turning to look at him, "I'm sorry. I was just having so much fun, I didn't even think about you having to work tomorrow. Let me just say goodnight and then we can leave."
Steering them through the crowd Tristan saw that Lorelai was absent of Chris; it couldn't have been timed perfectly. After saying their good-byes and asking that she apologize to Chris for their absence, he led started back through the crowd.
From behind him, he heard Lane's voice calling Rory. She was getting too close. He quickened his pace, moving through the crowd quickly, hearing the pounding of his heart in his head.
They passed through the doors out into the crisp night air, passing the valet marker off and met the car at the foot of the Met's steps. Quickly ushering Rory into the passenger's seat and rounding the car to drop into the driver's seat, "Ah, Junior. What's the rush? That was Lane trying to get my attention," protested Rory.
Tristan pulled away from the valet station just as Lane made it to the curb. He felt a jolt as he briefly met Lane's eyes in the rear view mirror. "Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't hear anyone. I'm just in a hurry to get you home and into something more comfortable," he murmured distractedly.
Had it been enough time for her to recognize him? For the life of him, he hoped not.