Work Text:
It was the evening of the last day of Hanukkah, and Brian Epstein had returned home from visiting his family. He had been away for most of the holiday. Which was nice, but he was glad the tradition was over and he could get back to his life. The worldly man had brought leftovers back from the festivities. Platters of latkes, smoke salmon lox, an entire brisket his family didn’t have room for, loafs of challah bread, and much more. Between his mother, aunt’s and sister-in-laws, there was enough food for another eight nights. The women in this man’s family always made too much!
The excessive food was stored by the master of the house, as most of his staff was Jewish, so it was his custom to give large percent of his employees the holiday off. He would likely pass off much of this excess food to any who showed interest. Especially those who worked for him. Even the staff who wasn’t Jewish were happy to have the treats. It made him feel generous and he loved telling the women of his family the praise from others of their cooking.
The sun was setting when the gentleman was disturbed by the ring of his doorbell. Surprised, as Mister Epstein was not expecting visitors, he approached the door. Cautiously he looked through the spy glass and found four of his clients on the stoop of his residence. The Beatles, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and George Harrison, awaited an answer in the harsh December weather. Happy to see the friendly faces the manager opened the door.
“Brian!” Ringo yelled out first, which the others followed.
“Happy Hanukkah!” the Beatles said in unison, pulling presents out from behind their backs. The older man smiled and invited his friends in.
“This was very thoughtful of you all,” Brian began, as he helped place their coats in the closet. “However Hanukkah isn’t a gift giving holiday.” The older man explained. “its really a minor holiday.”
“They’ve started giving out gifts in the States.” John informed his host. “We figured we would bring this idea here for you.” There was a mischievous smile on his face, but it was sweet at the same time.
“Besides its an excuse to see you, and bring you presents.” Paul added holding up his package he seemed quite proud of. Knowing these men were so accustomed to giving gifts this time of year, Brian felt touched by their inclusion of him in such a tradition.
G-ddamn it, these lads were so sweet. The holiday may have technically ended by sunset, but an evening with friends was celebrated until dawn. There was plenty of food and Kashrut for the unexpected continuation of the holiday. It was just a lovely gathering among well meaning and cherished friends. The four spent the night, each sharing their affections with each other and their manager.
Laying in bed, with one of the lads on his chest and another at his side, Brian discovered how complete he felt. These boys gave him so much. Not just physical affections, but genuine love. They were a secret queer family he never thought was possible. A group of young men who were sincerely a family of his very own. Life before them, seemed so empty and lonely, now he had something more than a big empty house to go back home to.
These were indeed the happiest moments of his life.