“Hey, do you want another drink?”
“Huh? What?” Noah appeared almost startled as Gus addressed him.
“I’m getting another drink. Do you want one?” Gus repeated his question.
“Oh. Um, sure. Yeah.” Noah smiled. “Another wrench?”
Gus nodded, returning his smile. “I figured as much.” He began rising to his feet, but paused for a moment, eyeing his boyfriend uncertainly. “Noah, is everything okay? You’ve been acting so weird ever since dinner…”
“I’m fine.” Noah assured him, his voice sincere. “I’m just kinda stressed, I guess… Work’s been pretty crazy lately.”
Gus nodded in understanding. Being a paramedic was not easy. The hours were long and hard, and the work could be so emotionally draining. Sometimes he wondered how Noah managed to do it.
“Well, wait a few more years before you start going gray on me, okay?” Gus teased as he rose from the table. “It’s our anniversary. Just try to relax.” He hesitated for just a moment. “And, uh, if you need a little help with that, I may know a relaxation technique or two that we can try out when we get home.” Gus winked at him as he spoke.
The sound of Noah’s laughter sent a warmth rushing through him as he turned away and headed to the bar.
Though he’d joked about Noah going prematurely gray, Gus found himself genuinely wondering what Noah might look like in fifteen or twenty years’ time. Would his hair be peppered with gray? Would he have little wrinkles in the corners of his eyes?
And, most importantly, would Gus still be at his side?
Tonight marked seven years that they’d been together. Seven. Gus could hardly believe it. It somehow felt like both an eternity and a blink of an eye at the same time. And that’s how it was supposed to feel, wasn’t it? When you found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with?
That was definitely what Gus wanted with Noah. And he knew deep down that it was what Noah wanted too… He just didn’t want it in quite the same way.
That was one big hurdle they’d faced early-on in their relationship. Gus had always dreamed of being married one day… But while he continued to wait for the day gay marriage became legal in Germany, he was willing to settle for a legal partnership. A lifelong commitment. A promise to stay together for the rest of their lives.
Noah saw things a bit differently. Before he was ten years old, he’d had to see his parents cheat on each other, go through a nasty divorce, and fight a long, painful custody battle. Marriage and commitment were empty words to Noah. Gus knew that. He understood it. They’d talked about it countless times.
“Why make a bunch of stupid promises about the future? Why worry about tomorrow when we can focus on what we have today?” He always said. “I’m here now. I love you now. And that’s what matters.”
Though it had hurt at first, Gus had quickly decided that he was willing to embrace his boyfriend’s point of view. And that was a big part of what he loved so much about Noah anyway — He never dwelled on the past. He didn’t worry about the future. He always lived in the moment. And Gus wouldn’t have had him any other way.
He headed back to their table, drinks in hand, and was relieved to see that Noah appeared a bit less preoccupied than he had before. “One wrench for you…”
“Perfect, thank you.” Noah smiled gratefully as the drink was placed in front of him.
“And one salty llama for me.” He took a long swig from his glass as he spoke.
“Blegh!” Noah laughed playfully. “I have no idea how you can drink that crap.”
“Mm, you’re right.” Gus took another small sip. “I have terrible taste, don’t I?”
The other man nodded enthusiastically. “The worst. In pretty much everything.” Noah teased. “Drinks, books, clothes…”
“Men?”
“Definitely. Worst of the worst.”
Gus laughed heartily. “Oh my God, you are such a loser.”
“I know.” He agreed, feigning seriousness. “I told you it was the worst.”
“It’s actually a pretty nice night…” Gus muttered softly as he glanced up at the stars above them. “I thought it’d be a lot colder.”
Noah shrugged and stopped walking, turning to face him. “I knew it’d be fine… Especially with you to keep me warm.”
Gus couldn’t help laughing at the uncharacteristically cheesy comment. “Wow, what the hell did they put in that last drink?”
“What?” His boyfriend’s cheeks reddened slightly. “Can’t I be a little romantic for once?”
Gus raised an eyebrow curiously at him. Something was definitely up. “Noah, what’s going on?” He asked nervously. “And don’t tell me it’s stress again, okay? You’re not yourself tonight…”
It was a moment before Noah replied. “I guess… I’ve just been thinking a lot lately.” He admitted at last.
“About what?”
“Your Bruder. And Hazel.”
Gus’ brow furrowed. That had definitely not been the answer he was expecting. “What are you talking about?”
A soft sigh escaped his lips. “I’m talking about the future. Us…” Noah paused. “Auggy, what happened to them was awful. But it reminded me that anything can happen… You never know when your time could be up. Know what I mean?”
Gus nodded slowly. There was a sudden twisting sensation in his stomach. He wasn’t quite sure what Noah was getting at, but whatever it was, it couldn’t be good.
“Tomorrow’s not promised, Auggy.” Gus couldn’t remember the last time he saw Noah so nervous. “Nothing is. But… There is one promise we can make. Before it’s too late.”
He watched, wide-eyed as Noah fumbled for something in his coat pocket.
“I know they won’t let us call it marriage, but screw them. This is what you’ve always wanted, Auggy. So, just to make it official…” Noah dropped down to one knee. “Augustin Rosebrook… Will you marry me?”
Gus knew his answer immediately.
He looked down and took a deep, shuddering breath.
“No.”
————————————————-
Happy Thanksgiving to all of my US readers, and Happy Thursday to all my non-US readers 😛
Also, quick sappy moment — Today marks one year since I finished my first SimLit story (and prequel to Ashes to Ashes), Dust to Dust. A2A would not exist without that story, and no matter how much I love my legacy, D2D will always be my “baby”. So I am very thankful to any and all of you who have read D2D and supported that story. You’re awesome. 🙂
noooo 😮 hmmm but I have the feeling gus only did this bc he doesn’t want noah to make a rash commitment just bc of his grief about luc. and not want it anymore later. I really hope that’s it. it has to be.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s a good theory! We are gonna have to wait and see the full story later 😦
LikeLiked by 1 person
I don’t get it. Why did you say no Auggy? And it was such a romantic setting for the proposal as well. *scratches head and then pouts upon the realisation that I’ll have to wait at least two days for the answer*
LikeLiked by 2 people
*whispers* longer than two days, because other chapters will happen in-between… haha
I promise we will understand why in time though!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well, that’s gonna be a knife in Noah’s heart, probably.
Then again, my guess is that Gus said no because of Noah’s feelings toward marriage and commitment and all that stuff.
But it could also be possible that Noah felt it was worth it to settle down with Gus.
I don’t know. I’m just guessing at this point.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Your guesses are all good! Unfortunately we have to wait a while to see (we have a few chapters coming before we get Gus’ side of the story). Either way, yes — I think this really hurt Noah 😦 The poor guy!
LikeLike
Oh my. That was not good. I’m begin to feel like the reason Gus rejected the offer is because they’re not ready. Could it also be because Noah brought up Luc and Hazel? That breaks my heart that this happen and Noah has my sympathies. I’m sorry, Noah. 😦
Whoops!! The Royal Nuggy just hit a massive rock!! All the passengers are screaming and panicking and they’re putting on their lifejackets as this happens. As captain of the ship, I order all the passengers to evacuate the ship until further notice! If this ship is to sink, I’m going to go down with it. 😛
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hahaha I’m glad you are so loyal to your ship 😛
We will find out relatively soon what Auggy’s reasons were for saying no. You have a good theory. We’ll have to see if it’s true! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I feel like Auggy made the right decision for the right reasons. I can’t blame the guy for wanting a genuine proposal.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You have a good theory about Auggy’s reasons! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I fear this is the end of their relationship. It’s difgicult to survive a rejected proposal. Though i get why he did it. It didn’t seem real. You shouldn’t get married out of fear for what tomorrow brings. You get martied out of love. Iknow they love each other, but that’s not ehy he proposed…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, this is hard. Hopefully they can manage to overcome it? And you have a great theory about why Gus said no. We’ll see soon for sure though!
LikeLike
Can you not call it marriage in Germany? You can be married in Britain.
LikeLike
Yeah, I did a little research, and same-sex marriage is not legal in Germany. Instead they have legal partnerships.
LikeLike
I kind of get why Gus said no, people can do crazy stuff when someone dies, because they realize they aren’t eternal, so they always try to make the ”next step” earlier because they feel like death is closer to they then before, so hey have childrem, marry, go to another country…I hope Gus realize’s that, and is wanting to see if this isn’t ”in-the-heat-of-the-moment” thing, because even thought they might get marry in teh future, it’s better if they are sure about that.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m glad you have a good idea of what Gus was thinking/feeling. Death can definitely make people make crazy decisions! We’ll hear more of Auggy’s side of the story soon. 🙂
LikeLike
Well if they don’t work out it totally fits the theme of gen 4 with your first relationship doesn’t always lead to a happy ending!
I know this is Auggy’s second relationship but I don’t count his relationship with his best friend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Haha it’s true that that seems to be the running theme XD Actually Tobi/Colette is the only first-relationship to last so far!
LikeLike
And that only barely
LikeLike
Aw poor gus. He’s a babe!
LikeLiked by 1 person
He is a babe, isn’t he? 😍 Unfortunately I am cruel and put him in an upsetting situation 😂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well I wouldn’t be reading if it wasn’t interesting!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
“This is what you’ve always wanted, Auggy. So, just to make it official…”
Yeah… I would’ve said no to that proposal as well. You can’t whiplash your partner and expect it to end well.
Then again, maybe Gus is just in that same mood of not being ready for happy in his life yet.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah… I think the wording was a major factor here haha but we’ll find out for sure the next time we hear from Auggy!
LikeLiked by 1 person
This was weird. Not your writing but this situation. Guess I’m not surewhy he said no.
LikeLike
We will find out the next time we hear from Auggy 🙂 A few other commenters have already figured it out haha but that’s all I’ll say 😛
LikeLiked by 1 person
I saw what others have said, and it makes sense, but…I dunno lol. I’ll see how I feel when the truth comes out.
LikeLike
Haha fair enough
LikeLiked by 1 person
i didn’t see that coming. but i can’t wait to find out what happens.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks friendsfan! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
your welcome.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I just started reading D2D!! I’m a little ways into the first chapter and I’m about to find out what happens next between Lucas and Melanie…=)
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks for checking out D2D! ^_^ Lucas actually doesn’t meet Mel for a while in the story though haha so it’ll be a while before you see anything there 😛
LikeLike
Oops! I meant to say the first chapter index (I think?) and they’ve been dating for a year now. Grim is poking around, though, and I have an idea what’s going to happen….=D=D
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re fast! 😀 And yes, that Grim is usually being a bit sneaky… Hehehe
LikeLike
Well, you’ve got a long way to go! 😉 Have fun on this roller coaster of drama!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Whoa.
Hope to see the full story soon. I do agree with other theories, but we shall see.
Happy Thanksgiving to you as well (welp, Black Friday XD) and congrats on the anniversary of D2D! I was hooked from the very first chapter and I love how far this family has come. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Ninja! 🙂 I love following this family too (though I am pretty damn certain poor D2D-Lucas would be pulling his hair out if he could see all the mistakes his descendants are making XD
LikeLiked by 1 person
LMAO that’s for sure! 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Auggy you idiot! 😀 I actually disagree with the notion that just because Noah’s been heavily influenced by Luc and Hazel’s deaths the proposal wasn’t real or legitimate. Yes, he came to the decision and reevaluated his relationship because he was confronted with his own mortality, but what’s wrong with that? He basically did the exact opposite of what Joce’s been doing for the last several years and actually living the life to the fullest, so that he has no regrets. Plus, it’s not like they’re a pair of rash teenagers, they have been together for years and clearly love each other. Sometimes a reality check helps us see something that’s been there all along.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is a very insightful comment 🙂 There could be a lot of truth to what you’re saying here, but unfortunately Auggy isn’t seeing it that way right now 😛 I think a lot of it had to do with Noah’s wording kinda spoiling things “This is what *you’ve* always wanted” — he never made any indication it was what HE wanted too. I think that weighed heavily on Auggy’s decision to reject the proposal.
We’ll get more from Auggy’s side in an upcoming chapter for sure. 🙂 And hopefully the situation can be resolved without the ship sinking 😛
LikeLike
Happy birthday dust to dust 🙂 I loved that legacy and love how you write. I read the whole d2d in just 3 weeks!!!
I really appreciate what Auggy did, wedding proposal should come from love and not from fear. Hopefully Noah will understand and when the time comes they will get there and it will be forever ❤
I need to apologize Citizen, I love your work so much and I feel very lucky that I found your blog. A2A chapters became a cute bedtime routine for me, but I am not happy about the situation with zayne/Joce/mark and I feel my comments were too negative, and that was wrong.
I still feel that my ideal heir would have been born from Mark and Joce but again this story is so beautiful because you are the author and you don't deserve my negative comments about them. But I always read you and love your talent.
Keep up girl!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Please don’t ever apologize for sharing your opinions 🙂 Seriously, I don’t want you to worry about it. You are totally entitled to have an opinion and to share it 🙂 I sometimes do disagree with what my readers say in their comments, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want you to continue sharing what you think. ^_^
I appreciate your kind words. Thank you for reading!
LikeLike
*audible clunks as jaws hit the floor once again*
LikeLiked by 1 person
Auggy will explain his reasoning soon, don’t worry! A few other commenters have figured it out so you can read other comments for clues if you want 😛
LikeLike
Wow what a surprise …
LikeLike
Auggy has his reasons 🙂 you’ll see!
LikeLiked by 1 person
awww come on and happy d2d anniversary it was awesome x
LikeLiked by 1 person
WHAT THE HECK! This whole time I’m reading and I’m like this is so cute!!! Awww!!! Dawww!!! This is adorable!!! I couldn’t wait to come down here and comment a bunch of smilies and hearts, but then Gus Gus totally ruined the moment XD
LikeLiked by 1 person
Whoops, sorry 😅
LikeLike
Wow lol, I was crying happy tears and then my jaw just dropped!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sorry for this one! Hahaha
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve come to expect it 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
GUS YOU ARE BEING IRRATIONAL! They’re actually all being a lil irrational. But c’mon, Gus. Please.
LikeLiked by 1 person
“Irrational” is a synonym for Rosebrook, you know 😛
LikeLike
Fair enough.
LikeLike