“Peepers! How’s the flight?”

“Hi Peter!” She laughed. “So far so good. Mateo got us into the air safely and I don’t anticipate any problems.”

“How did Howie react when you told him he needed to fly again so soon?”

“He was surprised but he isn’t complaining.” Samantha answered smiling at Howie. “He is looking forward to meeting all of you.”

“All we need is the 2 of you here to get this shindig rolling!”

Samantha’s voice resounded with anticipation. “Rachel and Michael beat us there?”

“Sorry Sam. Michael had an emergency at work. They won’t be able to make it this time.”

The smile on Samantha’s face faded. “Oh…I see.”

“Hey Peepers! Cheer up! We are going to have a great weekend. Everyone is really excited to see you and to meet Howie.”

“I know Peter.” She sighed. “I really want to see everyone too. I was just hoping they would make it since they didn’t come to Christopher’s at Christmas.”

“Next time Sam.” He reassured her. “They will make it next time. If I have to go to Seattle and personally drag them on to the plane, they will be at the next family function. I promise Sam.”

“Thanks Peter.”

“Well, I will let the two of you get back to you in flight entertainment. See you in about 4 hours Peepers.”

“Wait Peter!” Samantha exclaimed, hoping to catch her brother before he hung up.

“Yes Samantha?”

“What in flight entertainment? Mateo didn’t mention a movie or anything.”

Peter laughed loud enough Howie heard him through the phone. “Peepers wake -up! You are alone, in an enclosed, secluded space, with Howie. You are both adults and you have 4 hours to do whatever enters your minds!” He chuckled. “You don’t need a movie you little airhead!”

“Peter!” Samantha cried out! ‘My older brother is telling me to have sex!’ She thought, trying not to laugh.

“What Samantha? I know the thought has at least crossed your mind!”

“I can’t believe you are suggesting what you are suggesting Peter!”

“Don’t play innocent with me Samantha! I’m your big brother remember? I can read right through the words we have exchanged when it comes to Howie. I’m sure the two of you have already, shall we say ‘consummated’ your relationship!” He laughed. “I’m just trying to spice it up a little! Sam, why do you think Jill and I travel as much as we do without the kids?”

“Peter!” Samantha wrinkled her nose. “There are some things I am better off NOT knowing!”

Peter laughed. “Let me talk to Howie for a minute.”

“I don’t think that is necessary.”

“Give him the phone Sam!” Peter commanded with another laugh.

Samantha bit her lip and passed the phone to Howie. “Peter wants to talk to you.”

Howie took the phone from Samantha. “Hello?” He said not quite sure what Samantha’s brother was going to say to him. Samantha couldn’t hear what Peter was saying but she silently prayed he wasn’t going to embarrass her too much. Howie looked at her and laughed. “I think it is a safe assumption to say she is a lovely shade of red right now!” Samantha closed her eyes and tried to contain her nervous giggles as the conversation between her brother and her boyfriend continued. “I’m looking forward to meeting you too Peter. See you in a few hours.” Howie ended the conversation and reached behind Sam to hang up the phone. He smiled and kissed her. “I love you Samantha. You are adorable!” He hugged her tight. “By the way” he whispered. “You still owe me the peepers story.”