Cantrell: The Early Years, Part SIX

Charity Benefit Event, a Cantrell: The Early Years, Part Six, Update

Erik barely got back in time from the concert to shrug into his formal wear.  Happily, both of the twins were fast asleep in their cribs. Already they were so much bigger, and eager to learn. As he hastily climbed the chairs, he said, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry I’m sorry.” 

Meeting him on the landing, busily closing the back of her earring Kayleigh said, “Erik, relax, it’s okay. We’re all set and ready to go. You just worry about getting yourself dressed.”

“You have got to be the most understanding wife in the universe. You’re the best. I love you.” His eyes took her in top of her head to the tips of her shoes, “Kayleigh you look stunning,” he said, kissing her on the cheek. “I’m sorry you had to do a majority of the prep for this event. Things look great. I will make it up to you I promise.”

*~~*~~*~~*~~*

Suddenly, as Erik descended the staircase once again, guests were busy walking up to the door. Instantly gratified the twins were still fast asleep leaving Erik to wonder if they were possibly down for the night. We couldn’t be that lucky.  Reaching over he pulled the front door open. All who were invited showed up. A line of people were snaking their way up the front walk. “Dirk,” Erik greeted the star with a handshake. “I’m so glad you came out.”

“Of course, Charities are my thing,” he said. “Nice place you have.”
“Thanks. Can I trouble you for a large donation, by chance?”
“It’s no trouble at all, and thank you for the opportunity,” he said, touching his phone to Erik’s to transfer the funds, 2,500 Simoleons, easily to the appropriate App. 

As the evening went on, Erik was pleased to see just how packed his house was. Full of generous family and friends. He wasn’t turned down once. Plenty of food, drink, merriment. Conversations buzzed across the room. Every now and again a roar of laughter went up, as many enjoyed the efforts of the Comedian at the microphone. There was only one guest who crashed the party. Remington. Erik stood at the top of the foyer, surrounded as he regaled his guests with a story, when he was very nearly accosted by the Obsessed Fan. Right in the middle the story, is when Remington got in front of him and said, “I love you, Erik.” Immediately, Erik's tale was dropped, leaving his invited guests hanging.

“Good to see you, too, Rem,” Erik gave him half a smile.  “You don’t mind if I call you Rem . . .”
“If you insist. But only if you give yourself to me.” The fan followed Erik as he and the others made their way into the dining room. Busily, Remington managed to remove his clothing, “You keep it so hot in here.” Several of the women gasped.
“Oh, Erik, can’t you get rid of him?” Olivia said.

And that’s when Remington did the unthinkable. The portly man leaned into Erik and made a concerted effort to kiss the celebrity right on the mouth. Erik quickly pushed him away. “I don’t think so. When are you ever going to get the message that I don’t have those kinds of feelings for you. I’m a married man, to a woman. That should be all the information you need to know. When I say I love my fans, it’s more of a platonic love, okay?”
"Why do you lie? You and I both know that's not true," Remington insisted, his delusions running rampant.

“I keep telling you how it is and yet, you keep trying.” Erik said, when Remington once again leaned into the star. “Please stop that, or I’ll have you escorted out. And put your clothes back on. My mother, among other Ladies, is here.”

Finally, the offensive one left, much to the relief of all. He did make a point of slamming the front door on his way out. Erik cringed with the abrupt crashing sound, worried for the stained-glass panels. This was the second door installed. The first one demolished after the break-in. He wasn't looking forward to having to install a third one.

"You know, he's a nice enough fellow, if only he'd stop hitting on me." Erik continued to work the room, as well as Kayleigh, who made a sizeable donation of her own. 2,500 Simoleons from her own account. Royalties from her published books, of which she now had three, with another one in progress. Before too long the goal amount had been reached. Erik thanked his guests for their generosity, as they began to peel off. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am very pleased to announce, we have made our goal for tonight. I can’t thank you enough.”

Following them as they made their way outdoors, Erik said, "Thank you and good night, everyone. All my best for the New Year.”

Erik realized later, the guests were so very pleased with his hospitality and his efforts, they awarded him a beautiful crystal trophy to display. He didn’t need the trophy, but was happy he succeeded at this event, which left him feeling warm inside. I couldn't have done it without you.

All for now, thanks for reading!