“Well, after a while, I decided I wanted to be a pilot. I distinctly remember that. And not just any pilot, one of those World War II Navy pilots.” I chuckle, remembering my short-lived childhood. The darker memories soon follow. “Then I just wanted Aidan to start talking again.”
Rachel places a soft kiss on my lips. “You’ve been an awesome big brother.”
“I know.” I laugh softly, thinking of Aidan. “These days I can’t get him to shut up.”
Outside the theater, Aidan’s name is prominently placed on the playbills, and I can’t hide my pride. It’s been a long journey to this point, and now, more than ever, I’m convinced we can both make it past all the darkness.
Inside, there’s a press junket and a red carpet in the circulation area. After we take pictures and meet a few people, I’m relieved when Wilson and Betsy Hayes join us, and we go to our seats.
I’ve already seen the play a couple of times, but like all theater productions, there are always a few changes from the last performance. Still, it’s the kind of play that doesn’t get old no matter how many times it’s seen.
You did it, Aidan.
We did it.
Beside me, Rachel watches with rapt attention, and when the final curtain drops, she leaps to her feet, taking part in the loud applause.
Back outside, the excitement is palpable. There are congratulations and handshakes and talks of Tony nominations. McKay is practically bursting with happiness, and I don’t blame him. His daughter has cemented her position among the stars, and I have an idea how that feels.
Betsy and Wilson leave early, and amid all the conversations with people who want to talk to me, even Ava shows up for a moment.
If I were placing bets, I’d say it’s already over.
Well, she was wrong, as I’m sure she already knows, guessing from her lack of surprise at seeing me with Rachel.
I’m much too happy to gloat, and she doesn’t say much to me, or to Rachel.
“Time to go congratulate Aidan,” I tell Rachel, leading her to the chaos backstage. Actors and theater staff are running all over the place, and there are flowers everywhere, especially in front of the door marked with Liz McKay’s name. An assistant stands there like a guard, accepting new deliveries and sending people away.
At the end of the hall, Aidan’s small office is empty. I pull out my phone to call him just as the door to Liz’s room opens, and he emerges, almost stumbling over the flowers and the beleaguered assistant. I don’t have to guess what he’s been up to. It’s obvious in his disheveled hair and rumpled clothes.
Still, he hurries over and hugs Rachel.
“The play was marvelous,” she tells him. “You must be so proud.”
He grins. “I’m not going to pretend I’m not ecstatic, because I am. Though, I’m disappointed my brother is no longer duty-bound to get me drunk and procure the services of a couple of hardworking women.” He chuckles self-mockingly. “That was going to be my consolation if the play bombed.”
I let my eyes drift over his disheveled clothes. “I believe you’ve consoled yourself fairly well,” I say with a smirk.
His smile slips, but only for a moment.
“I think it’s great that you worked out your differences with Elizabeth,” Rachel declares. “You’ll be working with her for a while, obviously.”
He makes a sound that could be agreement then glances back at the rapidly increasing offerings of flowers. “Yes. It’s great.” He unlocks the door to his office. “Dennis McKay is hosting a party tonight to celebrate the opening,” he tells us, cheerful again. “Do you guys want to come?”
I shake my head. My association with the theater crowd is limited to Aidan and a few others. “Since I no longer have to get you drunk, I’m only here to applaud you. Go to your party and enjoy your success. You’ll be the toast of the evening.”
With no warning, he puts his arms around me. “Thank you,” he whispers.
I close my eyes and hug him back, silent.
After handing him my gift, a watch my grandfather gave my father when he started running the hotels, I leave with Rachel.
“What are you thinking about?” she asks me in the car on our way back home.
I shake my head. “Just Aidan.” I sigh. “The direction his career is going to go now…”
She frowns. “It’s going to get bigger from what I can see. I’m sure you’re very proud.”