The creator of that saying, out with the old and in with the new, apparently never lived in a city like New York. Grady settled a bit too comfortably into his relationship with Marc. His devotion, after a minor error of kissing and flirtation, along with a growing waistline, proved to Marc that he was sincere in his efforts of apology. The extra few pounds, well those were just extra points for Marc. Grady learned his lesson not once but twice. He and Marc found common ground, jogging in the park three times a week, and Marc took up cooking. As for the sex spell, all it took was one afternoon of a hard sweaty run in Central Park, and a combined shower, to flush away any heavy insecurity.
After the flames cooled on a red-hot New Year's Eve, Will had a handful of dates with Daniel. Never seeing himself with an older guy, he tried it on for size and liked the fit. Daniel is quite the silent charmer, despite his squared, rugged jawbone and five o'clock shadow. As an independent film producer, Daniel is often on location around New York and always leaves a calling card, the keys to his private suite, with champagne on ice.
A New Year and a bit of soul searching proved that Luke Yates would never compromise his life with a boyfriend. That, he says he already has, with Grady, Will and me. His position in advertising has tumbled financially, putting him feet first to close any major deal. A few cocktails and his business card tucked into the pocket of Daniel was a calculated move, forcing Will to question their friendship.
Last year ended with a kiss from Nate and started the morning of January one with another in his bed. As I sit on the floor as I pack away the last of 2010: tear-sheets of all my columns, a few old letters of Finn's, a handful of photographs with the guys, and the wedding announcement from Ryan Green, a very old love, who found it with another. Last year seems to fit together quite neatly, like an old friend who rang up for coffee. Moving on to purge my closet took all afternoon. Even Jinx, my cat, got bored with my project, and entangled himself in a heap of vintage ties.
Just like this new lease on a New Year, our past can be shelved and tagged for future reference.
"Joey?" Will asked, into his cell phone, "Are you all set? Grady and I are downstairs on the stoop."
I took one last glance before turning off the light, noted the new duvet and pillows, the gift glass frame with the photo of Nate and me, and the nuances of a new beginning.
I grinned. "Be right down," I said and with that, tossed a novel, a new season’s jacket for old friend, and coffee with the guys, my fantastic ’40's English wool cape....
