Page 121 of Sweet T

“I’m happy for you both. As much as you do for this town and everyone else, you deserve it. Both of you.”

They were quiet for a moment. Titus was fidgety, wanting to speak, but unsure how to begin.

“I–” they both began simultaneously, then laughed.

“You go,” Tucker said.

“I already gave Alden his groomsman gift–a tackle box, and a week at Smoke Rise cabins in Dahlonega. He was easy. You–you’re a hard one.”

“You don’t have to give me anything, Daddy. Besides, I don’t have anything for you.”

“I already told you, last night was gift enough for me. When P told me you were thinking about moving out of the pool house, I didn’t sleep for days. Then when Evan came along, and talk of you two possibly going to Atlanta... well, it wouldn’t kill us, but it sure as hell would leave a big hole in our lives.”

“I think he’s pretty serious about staying.”

“If that means you’re staying–” Titus put his hand on Tucker’s shoulder. “–then my love for him knows no bounds.”

“Now you know how I feel.”

“I do have something for you, son.” Titus reached into his pocket and pulled out a silver pocket watch on a chain. “My daddy gave me this, and his Daddy the same.”

Tucker reached out and took it from him. It was polished, but faded, its shine muted with age. Inscribed on the back read: Good Shepherds always tend the flock.

“It’s beautiful. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome, son. I forgot the message when I lost touch with you. But I never will again. Maybe one day you and Evan will have a little lamb that you can give it to. Pedro and I wouldn’t be opposed to seeing some grandchildren out there in that pool.”

Tucker chuckled. “I think you’re way ahead of us there.”

“Maybe.” Titus grinned. “Maybe not. Anyway, there’s more meaning to that than the inscription. I want to give you the luxury of time–literally. When I was your age, in the study downstairs, my daddy gave me this house. But he mentioned nothing about my inheritance or the future. I’m not making the same mistake.”

“Daddy, it’s really not the time–”

“Yes, it is. I’m old enough to know it now. And I promise I’m not some mad king giving away all my shit before I die. But you are my son, T. This house and all the land will be yours when the time comes. We love it too much to give it up just yet. But I’m having Jeremy draw up papers to add your name to it and everything else. Pedro and me will come first, then you and Javy. There’s also Shelly—I’m planning a smaller trust for her, too.

“When I saw that play the other night, it made me think–why wait? Why wait until I’m gone when we can enjoy life together now? So, today, my actual gift to you is freedom from worry. You’ll see when you sign the papers. Before either of us were mayor, Daddy and me were also good businessmen. However, there’s a helluva lot more than just what we made. The bulk of it’s money he inherited and never even touched. It’s how I can afford to give Shelly the money she needs now, or Javy in Europe. You too, if you like. If that tavern brings you joy, guess what? It doesn’t have to make a dime, and its doors will never need to close. Hell, if I thought this town could support another theatre–for Evan–I’d build it... long as it keeps you here with us.”

Tucker stared at his father, dumbstruck. He had always suspected there was money, but he had no idea how much.

“I don’t know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything. Just give me a hug.”

Tucker did.

“I love you so much,” Titus said. “I never want to risk losing you again.”

* * *

Evan peeked in the master bedroom. Pedro was fully dressed and, similar to Titus, wearing black with blue trim. Barb and Shelly had knee-length dresses of navy blue silk with a single white rose corsage matching Pedro’s boutonniere. The three of them were posing for the photographer.

“You three look stunning.”

“Thank you,” Pedro said. “You look pretty sharp yourself. I love that tie.”

“You better,” said Shelly. “I gave it to Tucker for graduation. I don’t think he’s ever worn it.”

“I love it too,” said Evan. “I may not give it back. It’ll look even better with that navy blazer you mentioned, P.”

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