Disclaimer: Disclaimer: KISS, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons are real persons, and this story is not meant to harm or demean them in any manner. It is a work of fiction. Trynia Merin and other characters are property of the author. Rated R for sexual content and language, so no readers under 18 please.

At what seemed a very inopportune time, Trynia found herself before the sink in the lavish restaurant bathroom. It was all she could do to maintain her composure and will herself not to throw up.

"Oh god, not NOW!" she moaned.

Movement in the mirror over her left shoulder alerted Trynia that the door was opening. Quickly she snapped her head up and messed a bit with her hair, pretending to adjust it.

Wide eyed, Erica gasped, "Aunt Trynia, what..."

So saying, she rushed over to the sink and wet a towel for her. Dabbing Trynia's forehead she helped to steady her and maneuver her into the armchair near the makeup mirror. It was one of those restrooms that provided a sumptuous sitting area that took up valuable probable commode room. Now it served an well-appreciated service.

"Here, press this to your forehead. It might cool you down.'

"Oh god..." Trynia moaned, putting her hand on her belly. "I feel so sick... I shouldn't..."

"The food here is delicious. I hope you didn't have a reaction to something," Erica said, leaning over her as she pushed tendrils of Trynia's dark hair from her face.

"No... I didn't.... I just...."

"I have a friend whose father is allergic to shellfish and he gets REALLY sick if he even touches the stuff," Erica fussed, dabbing Trynia's forehead.

"I can normally eat that... but... oh never mind..." Trynia moaned, tears in her eyes.

"Trynia, we're good friends, right? I mean, beyond being your niece through marriage."

"Yes... you're like a sister to me," Trynia whispered.

"OK, then..." Erica started, looking very uncomfortable as she shifted from foot to foot.

"What?" Trynia asked, looking up at her. Erica smoothed her skirt under herself and sat down.

"Can I ask you something.... That Kevin and I were sort of wondering..."

Reflexively Trynia felt her hand on her belly, but moved it quickly away when she saw Erica looking at her carefully. "What?"

"And PLEASE don't get mad," Erica pleaded.

"I promise," Trynia responded.

"Is there any chance that maybe you and Uncle Paul are expecting a baby?" Erica blurted out, then reddened. "Because if you are...."

"I suppose there is no keeping it from some people..." Trynia said, and looked sadly at the mirror. "The only thing is... that my mom and dad... if they find out..."

Erica looked at her for a moment, unsure what to say. Then with a cough she said, "Well, I for one think it's GREAT news."

Tears filled Trynia's eyes, and she closed them. "I wish others would say the same... I can imagine my father will blow his top when he finds out... But in a way I'm glad you know."

She smiled at Trynia and gives her a hug, "I guess I'd say the same, only my dad doesn't give a damn WHAT I do. In my case, it would be Uncle Paul beating my door down. I think it's sort of a dad thing --- protecting their little girls."

"Yes, so you can imagine what my father will be like. Take Paul, only make him ten times worse."

"Oh..." Erica said. Trynia buried her head in Erica's shoulder and began to cry.

"Aunt Tryn.... You're not thinking he'd DISOWN you, are you?" Erica said as she rubbed Trynia's back.

"He might. He disowned Chase for coming out of the closet. The only reason Chase is here is cause WE invited him."

"But this is a BABY, damn it. A new life. A new member of the family!" Erica protested.

"Yes, but he almost disowned Carolyn for getting pregnant... She was 25... and he almost FORCED her to marry the father..." Trynia said between sobs. She pulled out of the hug for a moment, and accepted the tissues Erica fished out of her purse.

Erica looked at Trynia and sighed, "Well, that's just ludicrous."

"Yes... he said it was either marry the father, or give the baby up for adoption.... And say NOTHING to the realties about it. She married the father anyway, and luckily they are still married... but it wasn't the best choice at the time."

"Well.... You ARE marrying Uncle Paul, so he shouldn't...uh-huh...that should be OK, right?" Erica said, more hopefully then she realized Trynia must have been feeling at this moment.

"He's sort of a jerk," Trynia said with a sigh. "When it comes to being 'responsible' and 'honoring your religion'. And I can just see him saying something very nasty in regard to Paul being a rock star... and corrupting me..."

"It's not like you guys are some sort of irresponsible teenagers with no way to care for a baby." Erica said, rubbing Trynia's shoulder in support. "I remember how Uncle Paul was with Aaron. He'll dote on that baby, pick stars from the heavens, the whole nine yards. You guys won't want for ANYTHING."

"I know..." Trynia sighed, dabbing one eye carefully after the other to preserve what was left of her makeup. "Except one set of grandparents... Maybe two."

"Hey, look, once grandma Eisen gets past the shock, she'll be fine, I promise."

"You think?" Trynia sniffed, pulling away.

"No, now, Aunt Trynia, LOOK, my grandparents are great people. Granted, they probably would have preferred you waited a bit, but they know Uncle Paul. He's hardly virginal." she chuckled. "And obviously it was a choice you both made, so what's the worry?"

"I hope you're right," Trynia bit her lip. "I just sometimes can't think straight, it makes me so worried about my mother and father."

"That's one of the things I've always admired about Uncle Paul. He decides what he's going to try or do, and he sticks with it," Said Erica. "Soooo, if he wanted a baby, he'd have one."

"Yes..." Trynia sighed.

"And....he did...obviously..."

"I want these babies... so much..." Trynia whispered.

"BABIES?" Erica asked, her eyes opening widely at the obvious plural.

"Twins," Trynia smiled through her tears. "We're not sure of the sexes yet. It's too young to tell."

"Oh, GOD...." Erica gasped. She squealed quietly and hugged Trynia again. "Girls.... You need at least one girl, and you or Uncle Paul can paint cute little murals in their bedroom."

"I AM glad you know," she whispered.

Erica continued excitedly, "and she can give him fits. She can take my place in that regard. I PITY her bringing home her first date! Can you IMAGINE Paul?"

"Yeah," Trynia sighed.

"Besides, they can play with my babies. Kevin and I don't want to wait too long to start a family you know, even though Kevin is STILL convinced that Uncle Paul is serious about separate beds until marriage." she laughed with a nudge and a wink to Trynia. "He's sooooooo freaked out that Paul is going to find out we've had sex."

"Can we... go back out now?" Trynia asked. "I don't want people to wonder."

"Oh...sure...hey, let's just fix your hair here a second," Erica offered.

She reached over, grabbed a bottle of hairspray, and touched it up with her fingers.

"Thank you," Trynia kissed her cheek. "You're a real treasure."

"Aunt Trynia, I know people always say I talk too much, but this time, my lips are sealed. I won't tell anyone but Kevin tonight, and HE wouldn't tell anyone. He's deathly afraid of Paul anyway."

"Thank you..." Trynia stammered, her self-control slipping again.

"Not to MENTION that Paul IS paying our wedding bills."

"Carolyn knows, and so does Gene and Terri," Trynia counted on her fingers.

"Aside from her, I don't know who else knows."

"I won't say anything to anyone, whether they know or not. You can count on me.

"But what about Uncle Paul? Can I tell him I know, or should I wait?" Erica asked. "Trynia, I just don't want to screw this up for you."

"Three out of four siblings know, and now you know..." Trynia repeated. "I'll let Paul know you know... He's planning to announce it after the wedding."

Erica smiled, "That's great. I can't wait to rib him a bit...in private of course. PLEASE remember me if you need a babysitter too. I'll be so hurt if you don't."

"I will," Trynia laughed, cheered up by Erica's enthusiasm. "I'll NEED one... sometimes... if Paul and I want a night alone..."

"Oh, sure, and it's not like you want some stuffy nanny keeping them all the time and..... Uhhhhhh...never mind. That's none of my business."

"It's okay," Trynia nodded, patting her as they walk out. Erica hugged her quickly as they left.

"Congratulations, by the way" she whispered.

"Thank you," Trynia whispered back.

"Wonder if your brother got the wine?" Erica asked, as they emerged into the dining room area. Quickly Trynia glanced around, noticing the recharged glasses of some of the guests. Trynia guessed that Chase had poured the wine for everyone. Mr. Merin was already sitting down, talking to Trynia's oldest brother.

"Oh, yes, he did." Trynia whispered to Erica. Quickly she hurried to her seat near Paul and sat down.

At sight of her, Mr. Merin rose and walked over to her. Paul was not in his seat, having rested his jacket over his chair. Erica took Paul's seat momentarily, alert for any signs of trouble.

"Are you all right sweetheart. I'm sorry I wasn't here..." Mr. Merin apologized, kissing Trynia's cheek. "But I was last minute with a surgery..."

"I know Daddy," she nodded.

"Tryn, do you think that Uncle Paul would mind if I wore his dinner coat? I'm really cold," Erica interrupted.

"Yes..." Trynia nodded. "Go ahead."

Erica reached behind her and slipped Paul's jacket over her shoulders. As she did so, she took Trynia's hand under the table.

"Dad, you HAVE to meet Mr. and Mrs. Eisen... they've been WONDERING about you..."

Carolyn suddenly interrupted, moving over to where they sat. Mr. Merin looked up into the face of Mr. Eisen, who offered his hand.

"I think EVERYONE knows you," Mr. Eisen smiles.

"A pleasure sir," Dr. Merin said, giving Mr. Eisen's hand a healthy shake.

"Yes, and me too," Erica piped up, "I'm Erica, Paul's niece."

Mr. Merin turned to her, and took her hand. Graciously he kissed it, "A pleasure, Miss."

Mrs. Merin also drifted over and kissed Trynia on the cheek as well, then turned to sit next to Erica, "Hello Dear, Tryn has told me SO much about you and your fiancée... You are a lovely young woman."

"Oh, she has? Wow, that's quite a compliment," Erica asked.

"Yes she has."

"So you're Mr. Eisen, huh?" Dr. Merin rubbed his chin. "Nice to meet you. Only sorry it has taken so long..."

Mr. Eisen answered, "Erica is going to be our next family member getting married."

"Congrats," Dr. Merin nodded. "That's a lovely ring you have there. You must be very happy... what does he do?"

"He's a teacher," she blushed.

"Very respectable," Mrs. Merin nodded.

"I'm not sure if I can handle a place as nice as this," Erica smiled. "It's very expensive, I'm sure."

Mrs. Merin patted Erica's hand, "I'm sure you'll have a LOVELY ceremony no matter what you choose, my dear."

"Oh, Eve will be back in just a moment. She wanted to talk to the restaurant manager a moment. She has a small surprise for Paul," said Mr. Eisen.

"REALLY?" Erica said as she winked to her grandfather.

"Mr. Eisen, mind if I take a walk with you?" Dr. Merin asked. "I have a few questions about your son... and my future son in law..."

"Certainly, sir, if the ladies don't mind...."

"Dear..." Mrs. Merin sighed.

"Go ahead Daddy," Trynia said, relieved.

"If you wouldn't mind..." he nodded to Erica.

"Anything we can get you before we leave?" Mr. Eisen smiled.

"Perhaps some water?" Trynia asked.

"We can HANDLE ourselves, grandpa," Erica winked. "Right, Trynia?"

"Yes," she nodded. Mrs. Merin smiled and turned to Erica. She reached over and poured some water for Trynia. Just then, Carolyn returned and joined Mrs. Merin. Erica looked at Mrs. Merin and Carolyn, then glanced back at Trynia.

"The lobster here is DELICIOUS, isn't it?" she blurted out.

"Yes it is," Mrs. Merin nodded. "Why aren't you eating any, Trynia?"

Erica turned red at this question. "I have to watch my diet," Trynia says.

"Mom, what about the dress?" Carolyn interrupted. "We still have to talk to you about some of the last minute alterations!"

Carolyn and Erica exchanged a look of understanding as she winked at her. "Trynia's dress is BEAUTIFUL" Erica said, panicking that she must steer the conversation away. Carolyn grabbed Erica's hand, and squeezes it. She looked at her for a quick moment and smiled.

Carolyn mouthed, "you know, don't you?"

"Uh-huh" Erica mouthed back.

Amy strode over to Mrs. Merin, and interrupted, "Hi mom! You FINALLY MADE IT!"

"Hello Amy," Mrs. Merin said. "Yes we did..."

"Are you all staying at the hotel where the reception is being held?" Carolyn asked.

"How was the flight... was it grounded... delayed, you MUST tell me ALL about it..." Amy said. Mrs. Merin looked at them.

"Excuse me Hon, I'll be right back," Mrs. Merin said, kissing Trynia's cheek. She moved off with Amy.

"Kevin and I got a REALLY nice room, from a block that Uncle Paul set aside." Said Erica. "It's very nice. Ours has a hot tub even."

"We're staying there too," Amy piped in. "Your uncle I must say has a nice taste in hotels..."

Erica giggled a bit, "though I'm not too sure what he'll say when he finds out Kevin and I had a hot tub room."

"Mom, are you in the hotel?" Carolyn asked.

"Your father and I are staying at the Hilton," she said. "He didn't think the Doubletree was close enough to the airport."

"You mean you're NOT staying in the HILTON?" Amy asked, scandalized. "I mean your future SON IN LAW IS PAYING FOR IT AND YOU aren't?"

"Amy, shhh!" Carolyn rolled her eyes. Trynia sighed.

"Isn't it just amazing that these hotels now even have Internet access?" Erica said, desperately trying to chatter about nothing.

"Amy dear, don't fuss. You know that Dad has his reasons," said Carolyn quickly.

"I still don't get him, and I've been part of this family for ten years," Amy threw up a hand.

A bit hurt, Erica glanced at her. It dawned on her, that they had problems with Paul. "He has his reasons," said Mrs. Merin firmly. "Even though I TRIED to convince him otherwise..."

"Let's not talk about it here." Said Trynia slowly.

"But..." Amy protested.

"They ARE nice rooms" Erica said, hurt.

"I'm sorry dear, we mean no offense," Mrs. Merin responded to Erica. "It's just that he... well likes to be close to the airport in case he is called away... on an emergency..."

"That's understandable" Erica tried to smile.

"Mom... why didn't he?" Trynia asked Mrs. Merin. "Was it because Paul was paying?"

"Dear, now, the guests," Mrs. Merin shushed her.

Amy shook her head. "I 'll. NEVER understand your dad,"

"Do you need me to leave?" Erica asked quietly, "Am I making everyone uncomfortable?"

"Amy, would you like some punch?" her husband asked her. He pulled her away.

Carolyn took Erica's arm. "No."

"My uncle's a wonderful person. I just don't get it" she spat out.

"Don't... Mom... can we please talk about this AWAY from here... isn't there any CHANGING dad's mind?" Carolyn asked.

"Mom... please..." Trynia pleaded. "Why can't you stay with the other guests?"

"I'll talk to him, I promise," Mrs. Merin said, holding up her hand. "And I'm VERY sorry honey. This has NOTHING to do with you... Trynia's father... has never liked accepting things freely."

"And he's very rich. He can get you any room you want." Erica said, making direct eye contact with Mrs. Merin. She had Paul's dark intense eyes.

"He always thinks there are strings attached," Mrs. Merin said.

"My father never accepted a free handout..." Trynia blushed angrily. "Especially when he has the means to pay his own way. EVEN if it was GRACIOUSLY given..."

Erica put a hand lightly on Trynia's.

"Dear..." Mrs. Merin shook her head. "He's a stubborn and proud man."

"What about CHARITY mom?" asked Carolyn.

"Well, if they can't stay there, we'll all be there, so it will still be fun." Said Erica.

"He's not poor. You know that is NOT the same thing," Mrs. Merin looks back at her.

"Not like anyone is DYING to hang with family on their wedding, but we'll be there," Erica said proudly.

"Erica, please," Trynia held up her hand.

"I'm sorry" she apologized quietly, with tears in her eyes. She began to fidget with her Star of David necklace.

"I am very sorry, Noel," Mrs. Merin apologized. "I will speak with your father and make him change his mind..."

"Thank you," Trynia wiped her eye.

"Excuse me..." Mrs. Merin said, as she rose to find him. She looked apologetically to Erica. Carolyn shook her head.

After a moment of silence, Erica said to Trynia, "I love the name Noel. It's very beautiful."

"That's my middle name," said Trynia. "It was my christening name. And my confirmation name."

Carolyn sighed," I'm VERY sorry Erica..."

"I really like it. I've been paying particular attention to names lately. Kevin wants to go more with a traditional Jewish name when we start a family," said Erica.

"That's wonderful, Hon. I wish my father wasn't such a stubborn jerk..." Carolyn rolled her eyes.

"I know," Trynia sighed.

"Carolyn, I just don't want Aunt Trynia to be upset," Erica said.

"I appreciate that," Trynia sighed. "What names have you chosen? Like Joshua? Or Samuel?"

"I'm not sure what we'll go with. It's still a bit away," said Erica. She looked toward the back quickly to see if Paul is coming.

"Well I'm sure you'll find a good name," said Carolyn. She smiled at her, still feeling a bit awkward.

"Maybe I should find Uncle Paul," said Erica as she plays with her napkin.

"Hey it's okay. I don't mind the Jewish Christian thing," Carolyn said,

"I have a cousin or two who is married to a Jew. It's cool. And they make it work."

"Well, Uncle Paul's first...uhhhh.... Linda, she wasn't Jewish obviously but they.... Yeah, bad example.... But I KNOW it will work this time," said Erica.

"And Paul is the best thing that happened to you Trynia, so FORGET what Dad may think," Carolyn added to a silent Trynia. "No MATTER what happens, you're still his daughter."

"In all seriousness I just don't want to see him hurt because this day and tomorrow mean so much to him. YOU mean so much to him, Trynia, and I just don't want to see little crap take that from him," said Erica firmly.

"It won't," Carolyn said. "If I have anything to say about it... I will do whatever it takes to make sure it doesn't. You have my word on that, Erica, and Sis..."

Carolyn reached down and stroked Trynia's belly for emphasis. Erica added,

"He tries to act like he's tough and in charge, but I've known him all my life. He can crumble like a tower full of blocks if hit just the right way."

"So is dad," said Trynia with a sigh.

"He's a lot like Paul. He's a proud man." Carolyn added. Erica rose slowly and looked out to the back of the country club.

"Look.... Uhhhh... Trynia, I'm going to see if I can find Uncle Paul for just a minute, OK?"

"He's out with Terri," says Trynia sadly. "They both left in a huff."

"I know," she whispered, "Let me just sneak out real quick and see what I can find out. Besides, mom needs me to keep an eye on him. She has something up her sleeve" she smiles.

"Sure," Trynia nodded. She continued to sit at the long common table, with Carolyn holding her hand.

Erica took a few steps, then stopped to look at Trynia with a twinkle in her eyes. She rushed back over, "OK, damn it, I have to tell you. Can I tell you?"

"It's okay," Carolyn said with a nod, hoping this new development would brighten the already cloudy mood.

"What?" Trynia asks.

"There's sort of a surprise for Uncle Paul," Erica whispered conspiratorially. Carolyn and Trynia leaned heads together to hear the news.

While the three women exchanged secrets, Amy found Mrs. Merin hunting anxiously for Mr. Merin and Mr. Eisen in another corner of the country club. So far she had reached the bar, only to hear from the bartender that Mr. Eisen was last seen taking a walk outside with the new arrival, her husband, who had chosen to join the smokers outside. It didn't seem as if he'd be back anytime soon.

"Steve, be a Hun bunny and get me a drink?" Amy asked him.

"Sure. What will it be?" Steve asked.

"Another glass of Asti," she whispered. "Make sure they fill it to the brim..."

"Sure," Steve said, and moved off with her empty glass in hand. She sauntered over to Mrs. Merin, who was waiting anxiously by the sliding glass door to the veranda, where the smokers congregated.

"Is Dad still walking and talking to the future in-laws?" she asked.

"They've been out there a while," Mrs. Merin sighed.

"Has Dad been drinking?" Amy asked.

"Amy, that's hardly a proper question to ask... of course he's had something to relax him... considering what he's been through the last twenty four hours," Mrs. Merin cut her off.

Steve wandered back, with two glasses of champagne in hand. He nudged Amy and handed one to her, "Here you go honey..."

"Thanks," she nodded.

"Mom, can I get you anything?" Steve asked.

"I'm fine dear," Mrs. Merin glanced up at her eldest son.

"Where's Dad?" Steve asked. "Looks like he's about ready to come in again..."

"There, talking to Michael," said Mrs. Merin. She noticed the good Doctor breaking company with Mr. Eisen, who had just moved off to join the Eisen contingent on the other side of the country club. Mr. Merin moved over to the bar, chatting to Michael as he leaned his elbow and tapped on the bar counter.

"Getting a drink," Amy rolled her eyes. Steve nudged her, as she muttered something to herself, her eyes riveted to the beverage choice of scotch on the rocks that Mr. Merin immediately took a good swig of before returning to Michael again.

"Best not to disturb him then," Mrs. Merin said, settling down into her chair. "He and Mike haven't had a proper time to talk lately..."

"Mom, I'm sure it's no big deal," Steve said. "You want me to..."

"No, let him talk," Mrs. Merin said. "I'll just join him..."

Mrs. Merin rose from her chair and headed over to the bar. Just then, Dr. Merin turned to her, holding a glass of soda in his hand. Meeting her partway, he handed her the soda, pressing a kiss to her cheek. Amy sat down at the side table with a snort of disgust, chugging a sip of champagne. Steve sat opposite, sighing.

"Figures he'd just head for the bar first thing," she muttered.

"Amy, please," Steve held up a warning hand. "He's had a long trip..."

"Yeah, right," Amy muttered. "What's the deal with your mom and dad anyway? They have the chance to stay in a perfectly NICE hotel, FREE of charge and your father makes a stink about NOT..."

"He has his reasons, Amy," Steve said, indicating the subject was closed.

"Would it have anything to do with Trynia's present condition?" Amy asked. Steve almost spat out his drink and snapped up his head.

"What are you talking about?" he demanded.

"Oh come on... look at her," Amy rolled her eyes. "I mean I could SWEAR she wasn't that fat when she left..."

"Dear, don't talk about my sister like that," he whispered. "You're embarrassing me..."

"It's obvious! She's gaining weight in her belly... but the rest of her is perfectly toned... don't you think it's OBVIOUS what's going on?"

"Besides..." Steve comments, "if she IS, we'll know about it soon enough."

"Steve, there you are," Mr. Merin said. Caught, Steve snapped up his head to look straight into his father's face. "What are you two whispering about?"

"Uh... nothing," Steve said slowly, taking a drink of his wine nervously.

"Just commenting on the lovely bride, dad, that's all."

"Hmm yes, she is lovely, but she's sitting down a lot. I'm really WORRIED she hasn't said ANYTHING about how her surgery went..." Mr. Merin snorted as he joined them at the table. Amy spat out a mouthful of her wine, coughing. Steve anxiously handed her a napkin, and she dabbed her mouth off. Mr. Merin regarded her thoughtfully.

"Are you all right?" Mr. Merin asked.

"Oh, just pre wedding jitters," said Steve.

"Why don't we go back to the main table and ask her?" Amy said directly.

"I think it's a good idea," Mr. Merin nodded. Taking Amy's hand, Steve led her back to the main table, where they resumed their seats. Trynia had just sat down again, but not before Mr. Merin gave a thoughtful glance at her. Amy noticed the strange gleam in his eyes.

"You see," Amy whispered fiercely to Steve.

"Yes but," Steve trailed off. Mrs. Merin had already taken a seat near Carolyn and Steve, who were to Trynia's immediate right. That left a chair open for Paul, and to Paul's left were two seats, presumably for Kevin and Erica, then two more down from that for Gene and Terri, then the Eisens down next to them.

Gene already sat, talking intently to Kevin, who looked as if he were trying to avoid a topic of direct discussion. Erica spoke softly to Trynia, who leaned over in her chair to listen. A look of jealousy passed over Amy's face when she saw how closely Trynia seemed to direct her attention to this young woman.

"She's kissing up," Amy muttered. "To that Erica girl... at least SHE has some sense..."

"Amy," Steve whispered.

"My own daughter, talking to total strangers when she should be talking to me," Mr. Merin muttered. "She hasn't said two words to me all night... but she's all over the others..."

"I'm sure she's just talking about last minute wedding plans," Steve said.

"What is there to talk about?" Amy shrugged. "I mean it's not like we've got the full service to go through...."

"I know... but..."

"Well at least it will be over quicker," Amy said.

"Amy, you're so damn pragmatic you make me sick," Carolyn snorted. "Just because they aren't having it in a church doesn't mean it isn't any less..."

"What are you talking about?" Mr. Merin asked. "What on EARTH is this about NOT having it in a church?"

Amy, Carolyn and Steve swiveled their head around in unison to look at MR. Merin. His face had flushed red, his hand curled around his drink. Awkwardly Carolyn said, "Uh, well, Trynia didn't want to make waves, so she decided to have it in the country club, with a Mediterranean setting..."

"This wedding isn't even in a CHURCH? Is she having it in a SYNAGOGUE?" Mr. Merin asked.

"No," Amy flipped her hand down. "Only the nicest room of the country club! You should SEE the decorations he's planned... silver and purple... and there's the cutest buffet and flower arrangements..."

"What damn country club?" Mr. Merin huffed. "Don't tell me she isn't having communion..."

"Uh they're writing their own vows," said Mike quickly. "And the wedding will be blessed later by a rabbi and a priest... it's just that they figured going with a justice of the peace would be better for now... till they can have the dedications after..."

"What is this COMING to?" Mr. Merin slammed his hand down. "You mean to tell me my DAUGHTER isn't even getting a proper WEDDING?"

"Dad, haven't you had enough?" Mike said sharply.

"Son, that's not your decision to make," he cuts mike off

"But Dad, it was her decision, and they are having a priest BLESS the wedding, even if it IS after the ceremony!" Carolyn slammed her fist down. "For God's sake!"

"It's bad enough she invited HIM..." Mr. Merin poked his finger in the direction of Chase, who was just sitting down on the Eisen side of the long u shaped tables.

"Oh, for God sakes, dad, he IS her brother," Steve sighed.

***

By then, Paul had returned with Terri, both taking their places once more beside their respective significant others. Anxiously Trynia glanced down toward the Merin side of the tables, concern knotting her throat.

"What's wrong honey?" Paul asked her, squeezing her hand.

"I think my father is upset," Trynia choked.

"Oh damn," Paul muttered. "Well just leave this to me..."

"Paul, please don't say anything... maybe he'll calm down," Trynia whispered fiercely back, taking Paul's hand.

"Okay honey, but I wont' have people getting upset..." Paul said slowly.

"And it's bad enough my little girl isn't getting married at home!" came Mr. Merin's shout back to Mike.

"I know, but really..." Mike hissed back. Trynia glanced at her father, red faced by now, arguing with her brother. Steve hid his hand in his face while Amy listened intently to the fray, fingering her glass of champagne. Next to Mr. Merin, the seat his wife would occupy was suddenly vacant, for during the discussion, Mrs. Merin had quietly moved over to pull Mrs. Eisen aside for a private conversation. Steve noticed the empty chair by Mr. Eisen, and added up two and two in his mind. How convenient, he sighed bitterly, that mother was nowhere in sight when father was misbehaving.

"What will people THINK about our family?" Mr. Merin asked. "With him here?"

"Look, I don't like it any better than you do, but damn, cut the boy a BIT of a break, don't you think?" Steve sighed.

"Dad," Mike says. "That's not fair."

"Tell me what's not fair," he turns on Michael. "Your sister is getting married TWO months early... and she doesn't' have the decency to say why she's moved us out to LA... Instead of having a nice wedding like she and her mother planned back home... And she won't' tell her own FATHER that she is having a medical problem!' I'm a DOCTOR for god's sake! And now I FIND that she's not even having a PROPER catholic WEDDING!"

"Dad..." Carolyn rolls her eyes. "Can't you give it a REST?"

"What on EARTH is going on here!" Mr. Merin demanded, slamming his glass down for emphasis.

"Dad, I think the answer to that is obvious!" Steve blurted out as he sighed in exasperation. "LOOK at her."

"Please... she has her reasons..." Carolyn interrupted him.

"What are you saying?" Mr. Merin asked Steve.

"Steve, I don't think... that is your business," Carolyn stopped him. Steve flushed red momentarily.

"Maybe not, Carol, and I could be wrong. Maybe I'm just wrong..." he stops mid-sentence.

"What are you saying?" Michael asked, grabbing Carolyn's arm. "Dear... are you sure?"

"I promised not to say anything," she hissed to Mike. His eyes widened when he takes a look at his sister sitting down. Dr. Merin glared at both his children, and narrowed his eyes. Steve glanced around desperately.

"Just look at her. That's all I'm going to say" he fidgeted with his wineglass stem.

"Oh for CRYING out loud it's obvious,' Amy broke in. "She isn't fat. She looks PREGNANT!"

"Amy!" Carolyn broke in horrified.

"I KNOW she looks pregnant!" Steve barked back. "Isn't that the damn point here?"

"WHAT?" Mr. Merin asked, slamming down his wineglass.

"Amy, shut up!" Carolyn blurted out.

"Honey, did you KNOW?" Mike asked Carolyn, who shut her mouth and bit her lip, blushing. Mr. Merin flushed crimson in anger, gulping down the rest of his wine. He poured himself more.

"Dad, I REALLY think it's not a big deal. It's not like she's 15 years old. And it's not like she's not getting married." Carolyn broke in.

"That's true!" Mike put in. "After all, she IS getting married."

"Its bad ENOUGH she invited a QUEER to a wedding... and moved it without TELLING us..." Mr. Merin huffed. Steve looked at his father in silence.

"And it's bad ENOUGH she's marrying someone who isn't a proper catholic boy, and what makes it WORSE is she isn't even having a PROPER WEDDING... but my own DAUGHTER... I though she would have LEARNED from OTHER people's MISTAKES!" Dr. Merin thundered, glaring at Carolyn.

"Daddy, that's NOT fair!" Carolyn cried at her father. "Trynia isn't me!"

"Dad!" Mike gasped.

***

Soon the whole table noticed the shouting match that rose above the soft atmospheric music, shattering the festive mood. Paul's ear snapped up as he heard raised voices, and tugged Trynia's arm. Tears moistened her eyes when she turned her attention to the cries and protestations flung in her father's direction. Beat red, he angrily slammed his hand on the table with his latest statement, "That is the LAST straw!"

"Dad, that's UNFAIR! HOW DARE YOU!" Carolyn wailed. "I can't BELIEVE you said that!"

"Oh man," Paul shook his head.

"I knew this would happen," Trynia sighed, hiding her face in her hand.

"Uncle Paul, what are we going to do?" Erica almost wailed.

"Honey, it's all right," Kevin restrained her shoulder. "Paul and Trynia will take care of it..."

"Erica, honey, don't worry," Paul assured her. "It will be okay, I promise..."

"What is going on?" Mr. Eisen asked, glancing over at his son. Just then, his wife sat down once more, and glanced from her son to her husband with a look of confusion.

"What is going on?" Mrs. Eisen asked. "I could hear those raised voices from outside. Is your fiancée's family behaving themselves, Stanley?"

"Mom, don't start," Paul shook his head. Mr. Eisen gripped his wife's hand to silence her.

Trynia watched as her mother joined her father, and grabbed his shoulder. Paul sighed, glancing to Trynia with an expression that read, 'what do you want to do?'. Trynia tossed him a sad nod. Taking his hand in hers, she indicated her family with a toss of her head.

About to hurl another verbal dart at his son and daughter, he stopped in mid insult when Mrs. Merin whispered something fiercely in his ear. He snapped his head around to regard his wife.

"What on EARTH is going on over here?" Mrs. Merin hissed at him.

"Not only is your DAUGHTER is not even giving us the DECENCY of a proper CATHOLIC wedding, but she is pregnant!" Mr. Merin whispered back. "Or so some of our children maintain..."

"Dad, that's not..." Carolyn stammered.

"Dad, don't lose it," Michael cautioned.

"Now what is this fuss about?" Mrs. Merin asked. "I just had a nice talk with Mrs. Eisen and she said they were having a very nice priest and rabbi giving a blessing after the wedding ceremony... so I don't see why..."

"Didn't you HEAR?" Mr. Merin snapped. "Our DAUGHTER IS PREGNANT!"

Mrs. Merin stopped as his words registered, gasping for a moment. Carolyn hid her head in her hands while Mike sighed, and Steve shook his head. All three tensed in anticipation of the explosion to come. Especially when Mr. Merin glared at the approaching couple, of Trynia and Paul, hand in hand. Clearly, the violet evening dress curved gracefully over her lower belly, her state plainly clear for the world to see.

"Something the matter, ladies and gentlemen?" Paul looks at them with a hint of anger. He stopped before Mr. Merin's place, hiding Trynia momentarily behind him.

Mr. Merin pushed away from the table, and rose from his chair. He shoved up his sleeves and stalked over to Paul, fierce anger gleaming in his dark eyes. Mike rose from his chair partly, his hand outstretched as he said, "Dad, now wait... don't lose it..."

"Please dad," Carolyn stammered, rising from her chair also. Shortly behind Trynia stood Erica, who had moved over to take her shoulder in a show of support. Kevin stood nearby, his hand in his wife's.

"Ralph, sit DOWN!" Mrs. Merin snapped, grabbing her husband's arm.

"I can't sit down at a time like this!" he hissed back to her. "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!"

"AGAIN, is there a problem?" Paul regarded Trynia's father, unwaveringly. He folded his arms across his chest, dark eyes fixing into Dr. Merin's.

"Care to explain WHAT is going on here, and WHY you didn't TELL me?" he demanded. "Why couldn't you have TOLD me WHY you shipped us out here two months EARLY... and don't even INFORM us that this wedding isn't in a proper place of WORSHIP... not to mention some OTHER developments..."

Mrs. Merin, still in shock, looked over at Trynia with tears in her eyes, "Trynia?"

"Mom..." she stammered. "I'm sorry... but it's perfectly legal... and we have nothing to apologize for..."

"That's NOT what I'm talking about DAMMIT, young lady!" Dr. Merin shouted at Trynia. "Is it TRUE?"

"He knows," Carolyn mouthed to Trynia, glaring momentarily at Steve and Amy.

"I just don't understand why you hid this from us?" Mrs. Merin wiped her tear-reddened eyes.

"Answer your mother NOW, young lady!" Mr. Merin demanded. "Are you pregnant?"

"I... look, you think I didn't KNOW This would be how you'd react?" Trynia protested.

"I am VERY disappointed in you, young lady!" Mr. Merin snapped.

"Dad, STOP!" Carolyn pleaded, rushing over and grabbing his arm. He pushed her away.

"Trynia, sweetheart, I..." Mrs. Merin places her hands over her face, trying not to cry.

"KEEP out of this," he snarled at Carolyn. "You have NO room to talk..."

"I'm pregnant," Trynia said quietly, yet firmly. "We were going to tell you..."

"With two wonderful children," Paul added his arm around Trynia's waist protectively. At the realization, Mrs. Merin began to shake noticeably, hiding her face in her hands. She sank into a chair, helped by Steve. Trynia wiped away her own tears. Erica's eyes widened, and Kevin grasped her hand to squeeze it. Whatever verbal confrontation Paul had put her through paled in comparison to this spectacle. Even Gene and Terri wandered over, concerned about a possible physical confrontation. Before Gene could jump into the fray, Terri held him back, shaking her head.

"Let them handle this, for now," she whispered to him.

"This is bullshit," Gene snapped to her. "I can't stand here and let that asshole..."

"Gene, please for my sake, don't..."

Carolyn pleaded, at her mother's side, "Mom, please don't start... they WANTED it that way!"

"So, it's true," Mr. Merin said coldly to Trynia. "Both of you..."

"Yes," Paul said. "And we have NOTHIGN to apologize for, in my opinion..."

"IT was a mutual decision," Trynia nodded.

Mrs. Merin finally stammered, "This is...quite a shock...."

"So, that's why you LIED to us?" Mr. Merin shouted. Trynia pushed before Paul, glaring at her father.

"Dad, don't you think I figured you'd act like this, considering the past?" countered. "I knew you'd be like this!"

"That's no excuse!" Dr. Merin shouted back.

"Trynia, your father and I, we love you. It's not that. It's just we're...startled.... That's all," said Mrs. Merin. "Your father... you have to understand..."

"I'm getting MARRIED tomorrow!" Trynia cried. "Dad, mom, why is this an ISSUE?"

"Why is this a problem? After all, I made that same mistake," Carolyn interrupted.

"When, Trynia? When will they come? And are they OK?" Mrs. Merin asked.

"They are fine," Trynia said to Mrs. Merin.

"You couldn't have waited," Mr. Merin pointed a finger in Trynia's direction angrily. "After ALL we've done for you, young lady?"

"Ralph, please, it's not our decision to make!" Mrs. Merin held up a hand. "What's done is done!"

"Dad, I'm NOT a stupid KID! Stop treating me like one!" Trynia yelled at him.

"You're clearly ACTING like one!" Mr. Merin snapped back. "I'm EXTREMLY disappointed in you, Trina NOEL MERIN!"

"Honey, we're just trying to understand. Was this PLANNED?" Mrs. Merin asked, rising from her chair to hold her husband's arms.

"Not at first," Trynia stammered. "And then we realized we wanted to start a family..."

Mrs. Merin smiled at her, wiping away a tear despite herself. Slowly the ice seemed to be breaking as realization dawned.

"Please, we both decided," Paul appealed to her. "There was nothing forced about this... you MUST believe us... Mrs. Merin... cross my heart..."

"What does it MATTER?" Mike asked. "They're pregnant now... no going back!"

"Son, keep OUT of this! I want to know WHY this man coerced you to go against your beliefs!" Mr. Merin snapped. "Can't you Learn ANYTHING?"

"DAD!" Michael cried.

"No, Michael, of COURSE, there is no going back, and we wouldn't want them to. I'm just trying to understand why my daughter kept this from me," Mrs. Merin said, holding up a restraining hand. Still furious, Mr. Merin fell silent, glaring bloody murder at Paul.

"You see what you've done?" Mr. Merin snapped at Trynia. "You made your mother and I VERY upset! And you... you son of a bitch... you DARE stand there and say you had NOTHING to do with..."

"Dad, ENOUGH!" Chase shouted, before Mr. Merin could lunge at Paul.

Mrs. Merin put her hands on his shoulders and whispered, "Ralph that's enough."

"You have some NERVE even saying anything, young man," he turned on Chas.

"Even showing your face here... Trynia did you invite him?" he snapped at her.

"Dad, stop it!" Chase shouted.

"I have nothing more to say to you," He turned away from Chas. "You made your choice."