Chapter 64: December 22nd, 2001 & December 25th, 2001 - From Wedding Bells to Christmas Cheer
As the wedding festivities wound down, and Teddy and Celeste prepared to jet off on their honeymoon, Holmes received a call. It was Eminem.
Eminem's Congratulations:
"Yo, Holmes, it's Em," Eminem said, his voice clear despite the late hour. "Heard the wedding was off the chain. Congrats to your brother, man."
"Thanks, Em," Holmes said, smiling. "It was a good day. Teddy was happy."
"That's what matters, right?" Eminem said. "Family first. Tell him I wish him all the best."
"I will," Holmes said. "Appreciate it, man."
"Hey, listen," Eminem continued, his tone shifting slightly. "Sorry I couldn't make it. Things are kinda crazy over here right now."
"No worries, Em," Holmes said. "I understand. You got your own thing going on. Just glad you called."
"Yeah, well, I wanted to say congrats, and wish you a Merry Christmas, too," Eminem said. "Hope you have a good one with your family."
"Same to you, Em," Holmes said. "And tell Hailie I said Merry Christmas, too."
"Will do," Eminem said. "Alright, Holmes, I gotta run. Peace."
"Peace, Em," Holmes said, hanging up the phone. He appreciated that Eminem had taken the time to call, even though he couldn't make it to the wedding. It showed that their friendship was genuine, despite their different lifestylesChristmas with Family:
Three days later, on December 25th, Holmes found himself back in Chicago, spending Christmas with his mom and Teddy. The house was filled with warmth, laughter, and the delicious aroma of his mom's cooking.
They exchanged gifts, reminisced about old times, and enjoyed a traditional Christmas dinner. Holmes cherished these moments, knowing that they were becoming increasingly rare as his career took him further away from home.
The Christmas Party:
That evening, Holmes threw a Christmas party at his Chicago mansion. He had invited Diddy, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Jay-Z, wanting to celebrate the holidays with his closest friends and collaborators.
The house was transformed into a festive wonderland, with twinkling lights, a massive Christmas tree, and a state-of-the-art sound system pumping out holiday tunes. A team of caterers served up a lavish spread of food and drinks, and the atmosphere was electric.
Guests Arrive:
Diddy was the first to arrive, dressed in a flashy fur coat and accompanied by a small entourage.
"Holmes, my man! Merry Christmas!" Diddy exclaimed, giving Holmes a bear hug. "This is what I'm talking about! A real Christmas party!"
"Glad you could make it, Diddy," Holmes said, grinning. "Make yourself at home."
Next to arrive were Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, looking cool and collected as always.
"Merry Christmas, Holmes," Dre said, nodding. "Thanks for the invite."
"Fo shizzle, Holmes," Snoop added, lighting up a joint. "This party is gonna be off the hook."
Jay-Z arrived shortly after, accompanied by Beyoncé.
"Merry Christmas, Holmes," Jay said, shaking Holmes's hand. "Nice crib. You've done well for yourself."
"Thanks, Jay," Holmes said. "Glad you could make it. Enjoy the party."
Absent Friends:
As the night wore on, Holmes couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment that Eminem and D12 couldn't make it. He had been looking forward to celebrating the holidays with them, but he understood that they had their own commitments.
He received a text message from Eminem:
"Yo, Holmes, Merry Christmas, man. Sorry we couldn't make it. D12 sends their love. Hailie says hi. Have a good one, and stay safe."
Holmes smiled as he read the message. It was good to know that Eminem was thinking of him, even from afar.
The Party Continues:
Despite the absence of Eminem and D12, the party was a huge success. The guests danced, drank, and mingled, enjoying the festive atmosphere. Holmes spent the night catching up with his friends, sharing stories, and making memories.
As he looked around at the crowd, he couldn't help but feel grateful for everything he had. He had a successful career, loyal friends, and a loving family. He had come a long way from the streets of Chicago, and he was determined to make the most of every opportunity that came his way.
He raised his glass in a toast:
"To family, to friends, and to a happy and prosperous New Year!"