"No place … Been home nearly every evening. I didn't feel up to par … but I've called you practically every day."
"Yes, I know you did but, I still want you to come by," Gene said seriously. "I was so upset when I heard what Arnold did."
"Let's forget Arnold, Gene," Paul almost whispered. Then, looking at Gaylord, he winked. "How's the drink?"
"Better than those at the club."
Paul laughed … said, "They sure are …" He took out a cigarette, lighted it, and handed it to Gaylord. Then he drew out another and smoked contemplatively. He seemed to be considering something. He shot Gaylord a glance or two and then asked rather suddenly … "Do you like me … a little?"
"I like you a whole lot … Paul." He took a puff on his cigarette and blew the smoke out through his mouth.
Gene began blabbing about getting too fat and Gaylord sat watching his two new friends. He almost giggled when he thought of Gene calling himself their mother. It sounded funny coming from the fat little man in the green pajamas. There were so many things that had been said he didn't understand. Their phrases were so strange. Still, in this museum setting, he felt relaxed … a little dizzy perhaps, but at ease.
"How long you going to be in New Orleans, honey?" Gene asked.
"Until Monday, I think. I'm not sure when Dad is going to leave."
"You and Paul come by tomorrow for cocktails. That is, if you don't have anything else planned?"
"I'm going to show Gay the town tomorrow. Would you like to come along?" Paul asked.
"Your mother had better stay here. I'll probably be up all night. You know how these parties are. But if you're around tomorrow afternoon, come on up. There's always a drink around."
"We might do that. Thanks." Paul turned to Gaylord. "Didn't I tell you this old dear was a peach, Gay?"
"Please!" he shrieked. "I don't mind the dear, honey, but don't ever say old to your mother." Gene tossed his head back. Moistening a finger between his lips he ran it over each eyebrow. Gaylord remembered he had done the same thing many times. "I'm not old, honey.
