Suzie’s House 428 : Even a Toothbrush

The guest room struck Ethan as so placid it bordered on nondescript. None of the quirky paintings from the rest of the house had made it into this space. No high-end furniture or retro styling here. Just a regular bed, normal dresser, empty closet, inconsequential side table, and a nice window looking over the dark glinting of a lake.

He liked it. Ethan felt right at home here.

“Make yourself at home.” Peter smirked as though he already knew he’d offered exactly what Ethan would want. “There’s a private bath through that door.” He waved to the left. “Breakfast is around eight. You’re welcome to join us.”

“Thanks.”

“Don’t worry.” Gabriel gave Ethan’s shoulder a squeeze. “It’ll all work out. I’m sure you’ll be fine.”

“Thanks,” Ethan muttered again. He was so tired he didn’t really care. He just wanted a quick shower, and to crawl under the covers on that totally normal bed and sleep.

“Well. Goodnight.” Peter walked out of the little room.

Gabriel followed, then paused. “There are some clothes in the dresser. Pajamas and stuff. You can use any of it.”

“Thank you.” Ethan nodded his acceptance and understanding.

“Alright. Goodnight.” Gabriel followed Peter into the hall.

Ethan sighed in relief as the door closed. Then he remembered that he didn’t have a tooth brush. He grabbed the door knob and pulled. The door was only open a crack when he stopped. He heard the two of them talking, and wasn’t sure he should interrupt.

“So? What do you think?” Gabriel said.

“Just do it. It will bother you too much, and you’ll bother me. So, just… take him home.” Peter sounded like he was indulging Gabriel as he had done before.

“But the pizzeria…”

“Considering what’s been going on, it might be better to close it for a few days anyway.”

“I love you, Peter.” Gabriel gave him a wet, smacking kiss. “I’ll tell him first thing in the morning.”

Ethan closed the door gently. After all they had done for him, he didn’t feel like he could ask for a single thing more. Not even a toothbrush.

In the bathroom he found one on the sink still in its plastic wrapper.

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