Loved this chapter - the writing was so witty:
Jason let out his breath when they separated. "Doesn't really matter."
Was that for him or the people in the other car? Probably him, he decided.
"That's the gayest thing you've ever said. There's hope for you yet."
Was this a joke, or was he serious?
"KJ, this is my friend Peter." He and Peter agreed they would not announce their status as boyfriends to the younger cousins and were going with, 'friend' as an introduction. "Pete, this is my cousin Keith." "Hey, Keith." Peter gave him a small wave with his free hand. "Are you Jason's boyfriend?"
Really great details/accenting of a point: "Best day ever." "Rather than look at Jason, he stared out the window."
And I could so identify with the self-talk and reasoning-in-his-mind, that Jason was doing when Peter was being difficult. Sometimes, even when someone is unjust or unthinking, someone you care about, you just have to let it go, sometimes to acquiesce is the best choice.
Closing his eyes for a moment he took a deep breath. Getting irritated wasn't going to make it easier to survive the holiday. It also wouldn't help Peter deal with his problems. f**k, why did he walk away like a spoiled child again? Didn't really matter why, he shouldn't have done it. So much for being understanding.
"It's okay, Pete." It really wasn't, but he didn't want to fight about it.
Really enjoyed the whole scene when Peter met the family. Families are so funny:
Peter's bemused look only intensified when he turned to see the agonized face Jason made. Michele knew everything about him. God only knew what embarrassing things she would tell Peter. "Yes," Peter said dramatically, glaring at Jason for effect. "We certainly do."
"My dear Peter, where have you been my whole life." She stepped closer, put both hands on his face and kissed his cheek. Looking over at the smiling Raymond, she added, "Not that you have anything on Ray."
Thanks!