Since Larry expressed interest in the HVAC position, the hiring manager wanted to meet with him as soon as he could and he couldn't be more excited. He also thanked Harold profusely because the job search was becoming more discouraging. It's the morning of his interview so he picked out one of the suits Laurent was so kind to take the cleaners and offer him. Since Laurent has to be at work before the interview, he set up a car service that would not only take him there, but also wait for him then bring him home. Laurent also has tremendous confidence in him so he told Larry that they have dinner reservations to celebrate being hired. Larry couldn't help but blush and he certainly thanked him for the car service as well as the support he's showing him. It's still so surreal how the last couple of weeks brought him to where he is now. An amazing brother and securing this job will satisfy the requirements by the judge. He's finally starting the see the light at the end of the tunnel and with a fresh suit and dress shoes he's ready to go. Laurent made certain that the car service arrived 45 minutes early as it will ensure Larry is on time. He also asked Larry to call him when he's done as he wants to hear all about it. Of course Larry agreed and now in the back seat he's on his way to the interview...

In between appointments, and as he waits to hear from Larry, Laurent has been trying to get started on finding out more about their adoption. He's been on the websites of the adoption agencies located in their cities, but they aren't of much help as it's all generalized information such as their location, phone number and most importantly, the adoption process. He realizes that he won't get very far unless he asks his mom the name of the agency they used. The concern he has with asking is how it will make her feel knowing that he's searching for his birth mom, and potentially, his birth family. He assured his mom that it would never take away from the love he has for them and they will always be his mom and dad. He just remembers the look on mom's face when he asked about his life. That crushed him and he just doesn't want to see that look on her face again so he decides that he and Larry will try their best to find out all they can so it's kept between just the two of them. He does need to give her a call though because now that he's found Larry there's nothing more he wants than for him to meet them. It's 9:30 am so he knows she's up and may be doing some house cleaning or prepping for dinner. When he calls she picks up after the second ring...

Laurent: *smile* "Good morning".

Vera: *smile* "Good morning sweetie. Work isn't busy"?

Laurent: *smile* "Not too busy". *pause* "I found him mom. His name is Larry and he's so sweet. He's living with me and he even has a job interview today".

Vera: *smile* "I'm glad you found him my love and I love how you have embraced him. His days will only get better with you by his side".

Laurent: *smile* "Thank you mom. Now you have to meet him".

Vera: *smile* "Yes as soon as possible".

Laurent: "Saturday"?

Vera: "Perfect. I'll ask your father to fire up the grill and I'll also make sure Chrissy is there so he can meet all of us".

Laurent: "Thank you so much for being so supportive".

Vera: "Anytime sweetheart".

Laurent: "And can you tell Chrissy how I met him? I know she will want to know and Larry still feels really bad for that so if he's asked it will feel awkward for him and might make him feel worse. I was also thinking that if you tell her everything I told you about him then he will know that he doesn't have to keep feeling so bad because you all will accept him".

Vera: "Of course my love. You just bring him over and we will make him feel welcomed".

Laurent: *smile* "You're the best. I love you so much".

Vera: *smile* "I love you more".

After they release the call Laurent is smiling from ear to ear. Vera being so open to meeting Larry and embracing him is just like her. She's always been such a kind woman with a beautiful heart and spirit. Kent is the same and Chrissy is the sweetest little sister so he's sure Larry will love them just as he's sure they will all love him...

~one hour later~

Larry is in the back of the car and on his way back home. There's a huge smile plastered on his face and he couldn't get in the car fast enough so he could call Laurent and as soon as he answered the phone...

Laurent: *smile* "Congratulations".

Larry: *smile* "You really knew I would get it".

Laurent: *smile* "Of course. You deserve it".

Larry: *smile* "Thank you. They're giving me 45,000 euros a year to start, but he said the earning potential is as high as 75,000. Certification only takes three weeks, but the job doesn't start for a couple of weeks so I won't get paid until....".

Laurent knows exactly where he's going with that so he quickly interjects...

Laurent: "Hey. Don't worry for that. When I asked you to come and live with me it wasn't under any conditions. You're doing what you promised yourself you would do and all I care about is that you're happy. It sounds like you already are and I'm proud of you".

Larry: *smile* "Thank you".

Laurent: *smile* "Welcome and tonight, we celebrate".

Larry can feel his flutter as he softly replies, "oki". They release the call and Larry could just burst from being so overjoyed. He appreciates Laurent's sweet gesture and it only speaks volumes about the huge heart he has, but Larry can't imagine not contributing as Laurent has done so much for him. Laurent is at his desk smiling just as widely as Larry is. He didn't tell him that he's taking him to meet his family Saturday, but plans on telling him at dinner as a surprise. He's really just looking forward to this time with him. A nice restaurant and sharing laughs among great food...

~evening~

In addition to the suits Laurent gave Larry for interviews, he also gave him a bunch of clothes since he didn't have much to bring with him when he moved in. Tonight he's wearing a more casual outfit yet suitable for dinner. The clothes fit perfectly and he comes out of the room to see that he's the first one ready so he takes a seat on the couch as he waits. When Laurent does emerge from his bedroom he's adorned in black jeans an unbuttoned plaid shirt over a black t-shirt. The sleeves are rolled up just enough to show Laurent's strong arms and immaculate work of art that are his tattoos. His mane is flowing beautifully and when he sees Larry he notices how good he looks in one of the outfits he gave him so he smiles as he tells him, "you look nice". Larry thanks him then tells him the same. Laurent then receives a text and seconds later he looks up...

Laurent: *smile* "The car is here".

Larry: *laugh* "You didn't feel like driving".

Laurent: *chuckles* "I just thought since this is a special night and we're celebrating it would be nice to sit in the back with you and talk".

Larry: *smile* "Oki. Let's go".

Laurent smiles as he nods then motions his hand for Larry to go to the front door first so he can lock up behind them. When he turns around he notices Larry's mouth has dropped as he's floored by a DS 9, one of the most luxurious Parisian cars out right now, waiting for them. He turns back to look at Laurent who chuckles then motions for him to walk forward. The driver is already standing next to the back door with a warm smile then opens it for them. Laurent also allows Larry to get in first and Larry is already looking around in amazement...

Larry: *smile* "This is so nice. You went all out".

Laurent: *smile* "Had to".

Seconds later the car is driving smoothly down the street as they spend quality time together talking about various things. Then something occurs to Laurent...

Laurent: *smile* "So we already know who we are to each other and we already have a beautiful connection, but there's one thing I didn't ask".

Larry: *smile* "What's that", he asks softly.

Laurent: *smile* "When is your birthday"?

Larry: *smile* "Dec. 6th, 1988".

Laurent feels his heart leap and all he has to do is smile and wink at Larry for him to know that his birthday is the same. It's like the ultimate confirmation and both of them couldn't feel happier. They finally arrive at Chez Monsieur, and as requested by Laurent, the driver makes sure to open the door from the side he's sitting on because when Laurent steps out he extends his hand to help Larry out. The driver tells him to enjoy their meal and of course he will be waiting when they come back out. They begin walking towards the entrance that's opened for them by the doormen and they walk inside to the most amazing ambiance. They're seated right away and while they will order regular drinks, Laurent requests two glasses of their best champagne as he wants to toast to Larry's new job. The server comes over with the bottle and with a white cloth draped over his arm he begins to pour the bubbly beverage into the glasses until they're half full. He smiles at them then walks away temporarily while Laurent sweetly instructs Larry to raise his glass...

Laurent: *smile* "Cheers to your new job, your new life, and your future that's filled with nothing but promise and opportunity".

Larry: *smile* "Thank you so much". *pause* "Cheers". 

They clank their glasses together and take a sip as their eyes stay connected then lower the glasses gently to the table...

Larry: *smile* "This really, really means a lot to me. My heart is full. Thank you again".

Laurent: *smile* "Welcome".

The server wasn't too far away so he comes back over and asks if they're ready for the appetizers in which Laurent nods. Larry is confused because he doesn't hear Laurent order any. Already knowing what he's thinking...

Laurent: *smile* "I pre-ordered the appetizers but we will choose our entrees".

Larry: *smile* "Oh oki".

Larry takes another sip of his champagne then brings up something Laurent isn't expecting...

Larry: "You don't talk for a girlfriend so I take it you don't have one"?

Laurent: "No. I'm just dating. Well I had one date a few weeks ago, but nothing since and not too many before that".

Larry: "Why", he asks softly.

Laurent: "I just focus on my work. It's made me the happiest. What about you"?

Larry: "I had one, but she didn't think she could wait for me while I was in jail and I understood that so we broke up".

Laurent: "You didn't call her when you got out"?

Larry: "No I didn't. I heard that she was with someone else before I got out, but it's oki. I hope she's happy". 

*brief pause*

Laurent: "Well as the saying goes, there's someone for everybody".

Larry: *chuckles* "Yeah".

They pick up their champagne glasses at the same time to take another sip then Larry catches him looking around the restaurant and finds himself staring at him. When Laurent turns his head back to take another sip he notices Larry's gaze at him...

Laurent: *smile* "What", he asks sweetly.

Larry: *smile* "I still can't believe it. You, me. Finding each other and bonding".

Laurent: *smile* "I know, but it's great isn't it"?

Larry: *smile* "Yeah".

They eventually pick up their conversation about random things then two servers begin bringing over the appetizers as there's an assortment of them. Smoked salmon canapes with sliced lemon to squeeze over as it really brings out the flavor of the salmon. French cheese puffs, a brie cheese and creamy pesto spread with crostini bread for scooping, french potato salad which is a lighter version of the traditional mayo based salad. It consists of boiled baby potatoes seasoned with salt, pepper, and a smidgen of apple cider vinegar then tossed with fresh herbs, green onions and a dressing consisting of herbs and olive oil. The temperature is just right to dig in without waiting and they both begin humming in satisfaction. They eat every bite and when it's time to place their orders Laurent opts for lobster, steak and scallops with potatoes au gratin and green beans. Larry also orders lobster and steak but goes with shrimp instead of scallops and chooses the garlic mashed potatoes and mixed green salad for his sides. They also get unlimited baskets of freshly baked rolls that they share. It's such an incredible feast and they also have room for dessert. They choose the Religieuse. A small cream-filled pastry placed on top of a larger one which are joined together by butter cream and covered in chocolate. While they wait for that to arrive Laurent takes the opportunity to tell him about going to his parents home...

Laurent: *smile* "I have a surprise for you".

Larry: *blushes* "What is it"?

Larry: *smile* "I'm taking you to meet my family Saturday".

Larry is shocked to hear this, though he would love to meet them, but he does have one concern so his smile slowly fades as he drops his head...

Larry: "But what will they think about how we...."

Laurent anticipated the question he's sure Larry is about to ask and with the same warm smile on his face...

Laurent: "Don't worry for that". *pause* "Don't worry for that at all".

Larry hears the smile in Laurent's voice so he looks back up. He already trusts him so his own smile returns as he nods. With the dessert now in front of them they enjoy this last part of such a delightful meal. When they're all done Laurent laughs at Larry relaxing in his seat and rubbing his belly. He joked that he will waddle like a penguin to the car from being so full, but the bill is eventually paid and they leave with Laurent joking that he's walking just fine. Larry falls asleep during the drive home and unknowingly rests his head on Laurent's shoulder in which Laurent gently lays his head on top of Larry's. He gently awakens him when they finally arrive home and since Larry is so tired Laurent suggests he go straight to bed and get some more sleep. When it's just the silence in Larry's room his mind goes to meeting Laurent's family. Being told that he doesn't have to worry about what they might say or think about their unusual meeting he smiles a bit before closing his eyes to go back to sleep...

~Saturday~

The day has finally arrived and the closer the day came the more excited Laurent was that everyone would be coming together today. He was happy to see that Larry wasn't so nervous since he was reassured and now they've arrived. Their home is just as beautiful as Laurent's who turns to him and asks with a smile, "you ready"? Larry smiles and softly nods so Laurent leads the way to the front door that he unlocks so Larry follows him inside. Vera, Kent and Chrissy are all in the living room and turn their heads to the sound of Laurent's voice so he goes over to greet them all. The time has come for them to meet Larry...

Laurent: *smile* "This is my mom, Vera. My pop, Kent and my little sister, Chrissy. Family, this is my twin brother, Larry".  

This was the first time Laurent said twin brother, and while it's true, it's something about the way he said it and Larry just stares at him sweetly for a few moments then he sees Kent walking over to extend his hand for a handshake...

Kent: *smile* "Hello Larry. Wow. We're all still shocked by this, but it's wonderful that you found each other and it's so nice to meet you".

Larry: *smile* "It's nice to meet you too. Thank you for inviting me".

Kent: *smile* "We're glad to have you". 

Vera and Chrissy come over to him and Larry thinks they're going to shake his hand. He's utterly surprised when they hug him. Chrissy went first and after Vera gives him a hug...

Vera: *smile* "I'm a hug person".

Chrissy: *smile* "Me too".

Larry: *smile* "That's beautiful and it's very nice to meet you too".

Vera: "Well I hope you brought your appetite. My husband has the grill ready and we have so much food".

Larry: *smile* "I'm ready".

Vera: *smile* "Great. Everything else is set up so let's go to the backyard".

She turns around and they all lead the way outside while Laurent walks beside him. The backyard is huge. It's also beautiful. It's fenced in and there's a border garden. The grass is freshly cut and towards the corner is a large grill with smoke coming from it. Larry is sweetly instructed to have a seat and Chrissy offers to pour him a cup of whatever beverage he would like. He opts for some freshly brewed tea and after thanking her when she handed it over he watches her pick up a platter of corn on the cob and take over to Kent. He goes to take another sip of his tea when he sees Laurent standing next to him. Chrissy on the other side. The three of them are smiling and laughing then Chrissy gives Kent a kiss on the cheek before going over to help mom with the rest of the food. Larry's eyes go back to Laurent and how he's interacting with his dad. They're still smiling and Kent can be seen patting Laurent on his back. It's sweet to see how close they are although he can't help but think about how he doesn't have this kind of relationship with Michael. He never has so something inside of him...starts to hurt. He slowly drops his head and it remains lowered until he gets the feeling Laurent is looking in his direction so he looks up. Sure enough Laurent is looking at him...smiling as he waves for him to come over so he instantly stands up. Now he's standing behind the grill and Laurent's intention in calling him over was so he could talk to Kent more...

Kent: *smile* "You ever cooked on a grill, Larry"?

Larry: *smile* "No sir. I haven't".

Kent: *smile* "It's nothing to it and grilling is even better because you always get that smoky flavor in your meat".

Larry doesn't realize this, but Laurent quietly stepped away to give them some time. He goes over to help Vera and Chrissy...occasionally looking back and his heart beaming with joy seeing them smile together. When the first round of meat, which are steaks, is done Kent politely asks him to hand him the large dish to place them in. The chicken is next so Kent hands him the tongs then with a smile tells him, "go for it". Larry smiles and gently takes the tongs from him to strategically place each piece on the grill. With Kent's guidance he becomes the cook and he's really enjoying himself. Laurent looks on with a small smile on his face as he loves that Larry gets to experience this time with Kent who he knew would be kind and accepting like the rest of his family. They eventually sit down to eat and Vera was right. It's a ton of food. From the steak and chicken to the grilled corn, macaroni salad, fruit salad, freshly baked baguette bread, Greek salad and desserts such as macaroons. They both have hearty plates and she insists that they take some home. When the sun begins to set they decide to take everything inside and Larry helps them wrap up the food to store and also makes plates for he and Laurent then places them in a bag to be kept in the fridge until they leave. They retreat to the living room for a board game when it suddenly hits Laurent that he can find out the name of the adoption agency while he's here. He excuses himself to the bathroom, but doesn't use the one downstairs. He quietly goes upstairs which no one notices then goes to his parents room. Like any other mom Laurent is certain she kept everything about him since he was adopted so being as quiet as he can be he looks for storage boxes and anything he thinks important papers will be stored. He goes into the closet and when he sees shoe boxes on the shelf he's certain there's something in them as all of mom's shoes are out of the box and neatly lined up in rows on the shelves. He grabs one box and is about to open it when he hears, "son" so he freezes with wide eyes. He didn't realize he was gone long enough for his pop to come looking for him. He gulps then turns around...

Laurent: "Hey pop".

Kent: "What are you doing", he asks softly.

Laurent: "I was just looking for something".

Kent: "It's an odd place to look for something son. What's going on"?

Kent isn't mad at all. No doubt curious because of the expression on his face, but he isn't mad and he's patiently waiting on an answer...

*brief pause*

Laurent: *soft sigh* "Oki. I was trying to find the name of the adoption agency you and mom used".

Kent: "Son you could have asked for that. Why are you snooping"?

Laurent: "I'm sorry pop. It's just the last time I asked mom about my past she had this sad look on her face and I thought if she knew I was looking for me and Larry's birth mom it would hurt her".

Kent: "Oh son. Your mother wouldn't be hurt by that. She knows how much you love her. I understand you not wanting to hurt her, but I assure you she won't be. Now that Larry has come into your life she will understand even more why you need to know".

Laurent: "You're right. I'm sorry for snooping".

Kent: *smile* "It's oki. Your heart was in the right place. The agency is the Avenir".

Laurent: *smile* "Thanks pop".

Kent: *smile* "Anytime. Now come back downstairs. I want you to see how much fun he's having".

Laurent: *smile* "Oki". 

Laurent follows him back downstairs, and he was right. Larry is smiling so big, so bright and it's the most beautiful sight. He joins them again and they end up having so much fun Laurent is shocked to see that it's near 10 pm. He also notices that his family is tired so he tells them that they're going to leave now so they can all get some sleep. Larry thanks them again for welcoming him and they all say their goodbyes for now. He watches Laurent hug everyone with his pop being the last then they leave...

Since leaving Larry hasn't said much. Laurent figures he's tired because he's tired himself, but he also wants to make sure nothing is wrong...

Laurent: "You oki"?

Larry: "Yeah I'm fine. Why", he asks softly.

Laurent: "You're very quiet so I want to make sure nothing is wrong".

Larry: "I'm oki". *pause* "I enjoyed meeting everyone and helping your dad cook".

Laurent: *smile* "He enjoyed that too. We can go back soon. What do you want to do tomorrow"?

Larry: *smile* "I haven't been in your pool yet so I would like to swim with you". 

Laurent: *smile* "Sunday Funday"?

Larry: *chuckles* "Yeah".

Laurent: *smile* "Let's do it". 

With that in agreement Laurent continues in the direction of home and since they have a day of fun planned they say goodnight before going in their rooms to get changed and get in bed. Larry had a great time today and found it admirable that they didn't ask questions and just wanted to make him feel at home. He knows Laurent told them what he's still struggling with and he's thankful that just as he isn't holding it against him, neither are they which makes him feel so good inside. He didn't know how to express to Laurent when asked what was wrong that watching his interaction with his dad was tough even though it was beautiful to see. It just reminded him of the void...and the longing for a hug like that from his dad...

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A/N:  Such beautiful people to welcome Larry and Laurent celebrating him in such a magnitude for getting that job. Hope everyone enjoyed. Thanks for reading. :)