Archive of Our Own ^beta

It’s Paulie’s idea, and Rocky’s happy to acquiescence to that. “He’s got a lot of great ones, the problem is people don’t listen to ‘em enough.” Robert believes that much – he knew and liked his uncle very much, and had watched him wheel and deal his way across the country trying to help Rocky out. So they sit down and try to figure out how to make Rocky’s retirement and Paulie’s dream of establishing a lasting parvenue of his brother-in-law’s greatness a reality.

Robert brings his business brains to the conversation, Paulie the outsized passion, and Rocky the hope. Paulie’s first idea is a resort that would stretch on for city blocks, but that felt way too ambitious to Rocky – “I want someplace small, y’know, somewhere where I can see the same people all the time.” So they decide on a restaurant. Before Robert knows it, they’re looking for a good head chef – he may not be the best cook, but he knows good food when he tastes it -- and he’s thinking of changing industries again, getting out of the rat race – helping out, and helping his family.

Paulie’s actually very good at helping them find the right suppliers, and Rocky has friends of his own. Robert just brings his listening ear – he hears the bantering rhythm of old friends who are completely comfortable with each other, and two different men he’s leaned on and relied upon for his whole entire life.

The restaurant itself is small but beautiful. They’re close to hiring on staff when they have to agree on a name and signage.

“So I was thinking we should call the place ‘Adrian’s’,” says Rocky.

Paulie smiles – a small smile. He nods just once. “Yeah. I think she’d like that.”

All Robert can do is smile in return. This is his family. He loves them, and is happy to be a part of their simple family.