Eddy went silent, giving Gabriel a look that could've soured milk, but the young man just stared back serenely.  It didn't matter if Eddy fought him on this, if he argued or shouted.  It wouldn't even matter if he hit Gabriel-- not that Eddy himself would, but others had for the same reasons-- because he'd still be right, and they both knew it.<br/><br/>Instead of biting out a string of curses or flinging some half-formed excuses, Eddy held it all in until he calmed down, at least enough to begrudgingly think on what Gabriel had said.  He drank his scotch, exchanging the bad taste of Gabe's words for the burn of the alcohol, and then finally made a sound of reluctant agreement.<br/><br/>Yes, Eddy knew it was true... all true.  It just pissed him off to acknowledge it.<br/><br/>Gabriel smiled a little, gaze softened.  It was hard, would be scary and difficult, but Eddy could do it.  If Luke was really such a one-of-a-kind find as Eddy made him out to be, the man could make things work.<br/><br/>Then his phone pinged, and Gabriel pulled it out as he spoke.  "If Luke comes by again, see if he still seems as wonderful as before.  And if he does, take him out for dinner or go to a movie.  Do normal date activities like normal people."  His voice was fond, almost amused, and he opened the message on the screen.<br/><br/>It was a text from Paul, and Gabriel's attention narrowed as he replied: Yes.  Just 'yes', there was no need for further comment.  Yes, he was available, he would remain so and wait for Paul until the sun came up.  Until forever if need be.<br/><br/>He put the phone away, green eyes distant until they caught on Eddy's, and the young man paused before continuing.  "If you see him on the street, before he sees you... Stop and say hello.  There's no harm in just that."