Page 180 of The Texas Sterling Collection
James grasped Wyl’s hand with a firm handshake. “Ah…the Sterlings. I expected we might connect this evening. It’s great to meet you both. I’ll be back after my set, and we can visit.”
“It is a pleasure to meet you, James,” Rod shook hands. “We look forward to hearing you perform.”
“You lads enjoy yourselves. I’ll see you in a bit.” James turned and strolled toward the stage.
“He seems like a nice guy,” Wyl said.
“Yes, he does.”
They watched James begin his first set.
* * *
It was midnight before they realized it, and James was through for the evening. After putting away his instruments, he joined them in their booth.
“You must be tired,” Rod said.
“Not really, Rod. This is my workday. I performed for what, five hours, including breaks? Compared to the average worker, that’s a short day.”
“I never thought of it that way, but you’re right.”
“We enjoyed your music,” Wyl said. “Rod is the expert. I learned to enjoy music like never before in his music appreciation course. You are good.”
“Thanks, Wyl,” James smiled. “I gather you met at a school?”
“We did,” Rod said. “We’ll share the boring details with you sometime. Six months after we met, we married.”
“Sounds interesting.” James threw a glance at Wyl. “And from what little we know, you own a ranch in West Texas?”
Wyl nodded. “The property has been in my family since the 1800s.”
“That’s a long time. Glenn and I will have you guys over for drinks soon, and you can tell us all about it.”
“Sounds good,” Rod said.
“Hand me your mobile, and I’ll tap in my number.” James held out a hand. Wyl pulled his personal phone from his pocket and handed it over. James tapped in the number, and his phone chirped with a text. “Got it.”
“This is our third day in Ireland,” Rod said. “So, we’re still adapting to the time change. We need to head to our flat. I understand you and Glenn live in the same complex.”
James nodded. “That we do.” He stood. “Let’s catch up in the next day or two.”
“How about brunch on Sunday at our place?” Wyl said. “We’re in 220. Eleven-ish?”
“Sounds like a good plan. Let me check with Glenn, but I’m sure we’re not busy. I’ll let you know.”
“Perfect,” Rod said. “We hope to see you both on Sunday.”
“It was great meeting you guys. I look forward to getting to know you better,” James said. “I need to stow my gear. Cheers!”
“Nice guy,” Wyl said as they left the pub. “O’Brien mentioned James’s partner, Glenn.”
“Two couples make it easier for us to appear as friends,” Rod unlocked the Mercedes. “Enjoying time together is not as unusual as a couple and a single.”
“Good point, Rod,” Wyl climbed into the passenger seat.
Back at the flat, they undressed for bed.
“I am glad our overall plan included meeting another gay couple.” Wyl toed off his boots. “I wondered what our social life would be in a foreign country.”
