Page 202 of The Texas Sterling Collection
“I led several sessions for military personnel,” Wyl said. “Military audiences are challenging, but this is an academic audience. I have no clue what to expect. You know me. One semester toward an associate’s degree before one of my professors turned me into his love slave.”
“Lucky fellow. Do I know this professor?”
“No. He’s my bit of crumpet on the side,” Wyl laughed.
Rod laughed out loud. “Where did you learn that word?”
“What word?” Wyl asked. “Bit? Side?” Teasing Rod.
“Crumpet.”
“Oh, that. I heard it on Monty Python once.”
“You watched Monty Python?”
“No, I was in the studio audience.”
“Um…you aren’t old enough to have been in the studio audience for Monty Python.”
“Uh-huh. Am too.”
“You would have been…like…not born yet.”
“Maybe I heard it while in the womb?”
Rod gave Wyl thatREALLYlook.
“Damn…but I had you going there for a minute.”
“If you can charm audiences as easily as you charm your husband, you’ll be a hit with this audience. Academicians are a boring bunch.”
“I know at least one who is not boring.”
“Ah, yes, but I have you fooled.” Rod grinned.
“Maybe Iletyou think I was fooled,” Wyl smirked.
“If we weren’t dressed in suits and preparing for a presentation, I would tickle you senseless for that.”
The rear doors banged open, and attendees began filing in. Wyl and Rod stepped down from the podium and found their seats. Tables filled, and people chatted. By noon, each attendee raised their voice to be heard above the others. Joining Rod and Wyl at a table in front were Dr. Liam Riordan, President of GMIT and host of this conference, and Commissioner Seamus Kane. Mrs. Riordan and Mrs. Kane rounded out the six. Introductions progressed around the table. The six chatted casually until noon when Dr. Riordan rose, walked up the stairs to the stage, and approached the podium.
“Welcome, everyone,” his strong voice boomed over the speakers in the hall. The crowd hushed as all heads turned toward him. “I am Dr. Liam Riordan, President of GMIT. On behalf of the institute, I would like to welcome you to this luncheon. Our keynote will begin in approximately thirty minutes. Meanwhile, please enjoy your lunch. Thank you.”
Dr. Riordan returned to his seat, and the crowd resumed chatting as plates of hot food arrived at the tables. Silverware clanking against ceramic filled the air as diners began enjoying the delicious hot roast beef and gravy lunch.
“So what brings you to Ireland, Wyl?” Mrs. Riordan asked as she finished her salad.
“Rod and I married last February, but decided to wait until fall for our honeymoon. At the time, Rod still held his administrative position at the college in Blackfield so he couldn’t break away. We had a busy summer, but we took advantage of our presentations in Ireland to enjoy a honeymoon.”
“Oh…I didn’t realize two men could marry in the States,” Mrs. Kane said.
“Gay marriage is legal in all fifty states, and recognized by the federal government,” Wyl said.
“Ireland is considering a referendum on our constitution this year,” Dr. Riordan said. “The institute is looking at options for accommodating gay couples should the referendum pass.”
“The Catholic Church is opposed,” Commissioner Kane added, “but An Garda Siochána has long recognized the rights of gay officers. It takes guts to come out as a gay couple.”
“Wyl, how do you wish I introduce you and Rod?” President Riordan asked.
