The several extra hours of sleep didn’t seem to get Tom anywhere. Hopefully, after spending several more minutes awake, his adrenaline would kick back in. All the traveling and events he partook in within less than 24 hours was something he clearly hadn’t thought through. Tom quickly changed into something more presentable for a winery, a light and silky navy button-up, rolled up to his elbows, and black slacks, along with his black raybans to hide his tired eyes. He exited the bus and spotted Lizzie waiting for him, walking over and wrapping his arms around her shoulders in a form of a tired overgrown man-child, hugging her close as he put half his weight on her and rocked her. “Think the repercussions of sneaking you onto the bus and going back to sleep would be more fun.” @lizzieolxen
It had been a long journey getting to this point since the surgery; Sebastian attended physical therapy for a couple of weeks after being discharged to ensure he was recovering the way he was supposed to, he had to be extremely careful about being around anyone that came over to the apartment due to the risk of infection and just as one hurdle was crossed, the next hit without giving him or Blaine a chance to even catch their breath. Chemotherapy hadn’t been the greatest experience, Sebastian felt sick all the time, his eyelashes were the first things to fall out and then his eyebrows, which made him feel like weirdly bald alien. And then there was how down it seemed to make him; he hardly smiled anymore, he was given his excused leave from NYADA, which meant he didn’t even have assignments to occupy his time and honestly, it was reaching a point where it seemed like he never wanted to leave the apartment unless he really needed to.
This week had been no exception; before October even began, both Sebastian and Blaine had been so excited for the halloween party Nick and Jeff were throwing; Sebastian’s doctor had said he would be okay to attend for a few hours once he didn’t try go over his limit and it was the first time in a long time where they would get to feel like their life was back to normal again. But unfortunately, Sebastian didn’t feel well that evening, he sat in their bedroom for a while looking at their matching costumes; Peter Pan and Wendy- well, Blaine had altered it for a male Wendy, and it was adorable. And an hour before they were supposed to get ready, Sebastian had to tell his boyfriend that he didn’t want to go anymore because he didn’t feel well enough.
Like always, Sebastian repeatedly apologised to his boyfriend, tried to convince him to go to the party himself and enjoy the night, but he knew the older male was annoyed. And he wasn’t surprised, Blaine had more than enough going on in his life without trying to be there for him all the time on top of that and Sebastian really felt like he had disappointed him. So when he felt like Blaine was getting sick of him trying to break the tension, Sebastian went out to the living room and wrapped himself in a blanket on the couch, biting down on his bottom lip as he curled up into himself and hardly moved to even look at Blaine when he finally exited the bedroom. “Blaine, I’m not a baby, you should still go and have a great time...”
What: Carter finally opens up to Margaret about how he feels through a new song he wrote called, Tenerife Sea.
Where: Cleveland, Ohio Concert Venue
When: April 1st
Warnings: None
Word Count: 3,584
@cordellacarter
Margaret has no idea how she has been functioning these last couple days. She had barely gotten any sleep and she has been avoiding people as much as she could. Because she knew that someone could bring up Carter and if they did she couldn’t promise that she could stay calm and collected. Just the thought of him made her want to break down and cry, and now that she had to photograph him for the tour? God, it would take all of her strength to keep it together. Of course she couldn’t help but steal glances at him but each time she did she felt her heart break a little more. She even caught herself wiping a few tears that rolled down. But finally after what felt like years in was the last song, she glanced down at her camera and just fiddled with the buttons. Something she always did while nervous, and anything at this moment was better than the chance of catching his glance. But at the same time she almost wanted to. Like maybe if she did something could change... but that might be too great of a thing to wish for.
Carter had spend the last few days practically with his head in the sand, trying desperately to avoid anyone and everything. He knew he had to make things right, and he just hoped that it wasn't too late. Never having been one for admitting his feelings, the boy chose to put pen to paper in an attempt to let Margaret know exactly how he was feeling. After almost finishing up their normal set, it was time for their final song and after talking it over with Ripley and Reyna, they'd made the decision just for one night to sub out 'You need me, I don't need you' for the new song he'd written. Taking a few sips from his water bottle, the boy approached the mic, his guitar comfortably resting across his body. "This is something new - hope you like it." His eyes darted immediately for the blonde face in the crowd, he knew exactly where she was after spending most of the night avoiding making eye contact with her, who knew what would've happened if he'd locked eyes with her earlier.
Margaret’s eyes moved up when she heard him say this is something new. When their eyes met she felt the overwhelming wave of emotions wash over her. But instead of falling apart she gave him a small encouraging smile. It hurt to do, especially when he broke her heart a few days before. Although when push comes to shove they were best friends and she wanted to support him. Especially if it was a new song, but she could only wonder what it was because typically she would get to hear previews of songs. So she brought her camera up to start capturing shots. Finally composing herself enough so her camera could focus and steal shots of him.
Taking a deep breath, Carter let his eyes wander back out into the crowd in an attempt to make himself feel a little less nervous about what was to come. Letting the breath out quick, the boy looked back towards Rey and Rip, giving them a quick nod before he began to strum on his guitar, eyes falling closed as he began to sing.
‘You look so wonderful in your dress
I love your hair like that
The way it falls on the side of your neck
Down your shoulders and back We are surrounded by all of these lies
And people who talk too much
You've got that kind of look in your eyes As if no one knows anything but us
And should this be the last thing I see I want you to know it's enough for me '
Cause all that you are is all that I'll ever need I'm so in love, so in love So in love, so in love’
His eyes fluttered open, searching for her in front of the crowd as he continued.
‘You look so beautiful in this light
Your silhouette over me
The way it brings out the blue in your eyes Is the Tenerife sea
And all of the voices surrounding us here
They just fade out when you take a breath
Just say the word and I will disappear Into the wilderness’
Carter's gaze hadn't left her, a look of sorrow in his eyes as he took the song back to the bridge, his eyes falling closed once again as he sang the chorus one last time.
Margaret tried to take in all of the words, and slowly the words....the details sounded all too familiar. Her heart was slowly lifting up, even if she tried to push it back down, the last time she tried that it did not work in her favor. But the moment his eyes searched for his, she moved her camera down and met his eyes. A shaky breath left her lips, she could see the sorrow in his eyes...she had to blink to make sure this was all real and happening. He was telling her he loved her in a song and was perfectly explaining the other day. Finally a small smile grew on her lips. Taking a moment to snap back to reality to bring back her camera was he focused back on the song again.
Carter couldn't help but let a small smile grow on his lips, though he was absolutely terrified about everything he was doing, he also was incredibly happy that he was finally able to convey exactly how he was feeling. As the song wrapped up the red head thanked the crowd, throwing out his guitar pick and jogging to the side of the stage as Rey and Ripley wowed the crowd with a killer instrumental solo before closing the set. Everyone seemed to be rushing around as Lia was set to take the stage but Carter's eyes were only searching for one person as he made his way down an alley way in hopes the girl had been making her way to him too.
Margaret caught one of the other photographers and asked if they could cover her spot for her, once she did she thanked them and quickly made her way backstage. Slipping her camera back in her bag as she walked. Picking her head up in hopes to find Carter, not sure how much time he had if he had another song or something to go to, so she wanted to take advantage of every moment she could get with him. When she saw him her smile grew, "Carter." She called out to him, not even realizing how the feeling of relief the song gave her caused tears to well up in her eyes. All she could focus on was reaching out to him and just getting to feel his touch again after a few very long days.
As the alleyway began to empty, Carter felt a wave of disappointment wash over him. Maybe it was too late, maybe the damage he'd done was irreversible and he wouldn't blame her if that was the case but it would still kill him. The moment he heard his name called he jerked his head in the direction it came from, his eyes lighting up the second they spotted her. Moving as fast as he could, the boy closed the gap between them, his hands lacing with hers the second they were close enough to. The grin on his face beginning to fade as he noticed the tears in Margaret's eyes - had he made things worse? Lifting one of his hand, Carter gently brushed his thumb against her cheekbone.
When he took her hands she squeezed his almost immediately, her thumb running along his knuckles. She could see the worry in his eyes and his smile fade and knew she had to answer but she could hardly make words. Margaret's head tilted into his touch, her eyes closing for a moment. "They're happy tears...." she mumbled softly to him, "I was so scared that I lost you, that I couldn't feel your touch again...see your smile." Once she noticed her rambling she took a breath before opening her eyes to meet his. "The song was it for...? Being in love..." She knew she wasn't making complete sentences but after these last few days she couldn't barely handle all of these emotions.
The feeling of her reassuring touches worked wonders on his overactive mind, soothing it almost immediately. A content sigh falling from his lips as his hand gently cupped at her face, an overbearing grin appearing on his lips as she explained that they were indeed happy tears. He had hoped that the song would do exactly what it had done, explain exactly how he felt. An almost blush rising to his cheeks when she referenced the song, he'd never been so vulnerable and he was about to open himself up even more. "They all are," He said breathlessly.
Seeing that grin on his face only made her smile grow, her hand moving to rest on top of his. Her fingers lightly running along his skin. After not feeling his touch for days, it is like she longed for it. It was like going without air. But when she saw his blush she bit on her bottom lip as she reached out and let her hand cup his cheek. Her thumb brushing along the pink tint on his cheeks. "They...all are?" She almost asked in disbelief, "CC..." She whispered out before moving towards him, leaning in so her nose brush against his, their lips centimeters apart. "God, I love you so much." Margaret finally said, almost feeling a weight lift of her shoulders. Of course they have told each other that before but this? This was a new kind of love for them and she just couldn't hold it back anymore.
Even though he'd just poured his heart out in front of a crowd of thousands upon thousands of people, Carter had never felt as vulnerable as he did right now - in this moment, telling Margaret that all of his songs were about her. Though it had always been widely speculated by the public, he'd always played it off as it not being the case so verbalising it was terrifying to him. Simply nodding in reply, a bashful smile appearing on his features as their noses brushed. He was feeling cornier than ever but for the first time in his life, he didn't absolutely hate it. "I love you, Margaret." He whispered, the tension he had felt in his chest for the past few days suddenly disappearing. Leaning in just the smallest bit to close the space in between their lips, catching hers in a soft peck.
Hearing those three words come from him made her heart skip a beat. Yes, she heard the song when he said it but right now? Something just felt different. “That sounds amazing coming from you.” She whispered in return to him. When he leaned in she let her eyes flutter closed, returning the kiss. Not being able to help but steal another soft peck as well. Her open hand moving to rest on the back of his neck, holding him close to her. She parted slightly from him, “I can’t imagine this is easy for you to say all of this and opening yourself up...but I am so thankful that you are. I almost feel like all of this is a dream.”
As their lips parted, Carter swallowed harshly before a small smile began to grow on his lips. Hearing reassurance from her at this point in time was exactly what he needed, so of course she delivered. She always did, without fault he could rely on her to make him feel better. Nodding a little softly, the boy nodded - she was definitely right when she said it wasn't easy for him but he could already tell that it was worth it. "It's not.. But I needed you to know - I needed you to know how I feel about you," He admitted, his arms wrapping around her waist and pulling her closer. "I for one really hope it's not a dream."
“I wish there was some way I could thank you for finally taking that step out of your comfort zone.” When his arms wrapped around her a smile quickly grew on her lips. She could stay in his arms all night and never want to part from him. “Even though it would be an amazing one.” She added on as she let her fingers move through his hair, “It is an even better reality...being able to kiss you and tell you how much I adore you is just the best thing. After going through years of trying to figure out what to do with these feelings.”
A soft chuckle fell from Carter's lips with a gentle shake of his head. "You don't need to thank me - I should've done it sooner, I'm so sorry for hurting you.." His gaze fell for a moment, thinking about how horrible he felt just a few nights prior, how much it killed him to walk away from her. "Walking away from you was one of the worst things I've ever done, you deserved so much more than that." His eyes locked with hers once again, a look of regret filling his eyes. "But I promise to never, ever leave you like that again." He vowed, tilting his head up to plant a soft kiss against her forehead.
When he brought up the other night she took in a breath and glanced down, just the thought of that night brought up that same feeling at the pit of her stomach. Even though she was in his arms now, with both of their feelings on the table it still stung. After letting out the breath she glanced back up at him just in time to meet his eyes. "We got lost in the moment and it was understandably overwhelming....it wasn't the best decision, no and it still hurts to think about but we are happy now and that is the most important thing." She listened to him speak again, nibbling on her bottom lip when he pressed a kiss to her forehead, a look of sadness but happiness in her eyes. "Please, I don't think my heart could handle it again. Now that...I have you I won't ever allow either of us to leave like that." She whispered to him.
Leaning in and pressing his head against the girl's forehead, Carter took a deep breath. There is was, the smell of her shampoo. The one scent that felt as if it made all of his worries melt away into nothing. "Believe me when I say that it killed me, I was just.. Terrified." He sighed softly, he'd regret walking away from her forever. "And as corny as this is about to sound," He chuckled a little. "I'll be here to annoy you for as long as you'll have me"
Margaret let her eyes flutter closed when his head rested against hers. A small relaxed smile resting on her lips, just being in his arms always did that for her. "Well we are here...together now and that is all that matters." She comforted, knowing that this will lurk in their memories for awhile, even moreso that this all went down with cameras surrounding them. So she'd imagine their fans would be bringing it up as well. Her eyes slowly fluttered open at what he said and felt her smile grow. "You know I will never complain about your corny side coming out, it always make my heart skip a beat." Her hands moved so her thumbs could brush along his skin. "As long as I'll have you, hm? You sure you want to give me that much power? Because if you do I think you will be stuck with me forever."
Carter couldn't think of anything that would make him happier in this moment, her smile setting his heart on fire. "All that matters," He repeated, nodding softly in agreement. She had a point, though he would do everything in his power to make it up to her - there was no point in dwelling on the past, especially when their future was looking so bright. "Well, it's a side reserved especially for you - Corny Carter ain't got time for anybody else." He teased, letting out a soft chuckle. "You say forever like it's a bad thing," A smirk played on his lips before he leaned in and pressed another soft kiss to the girl's lips, lingering there for a little longer this time.
Margaret felt a grin grow on her lips, letting out her own chuckle as well. "Good, call me selfish but I want to keep that side all to myself." Her eyes were probably sparkling and felt like there were hearts in them. "Its an amazing thing, especially with you." She whispered to him before letting her eyes flutter closed and melted into the kiss. Her hands moving to cup his cheeks. His kiss, his touch, his voice, his smile...everything, it was unfair how amazing it all made her feel. And the fact they they confirmed that she could enjoy those things forever? It was even better. That thought alone causing her to smile into the kiss.
Carter bit down on his bottom lip, an attempt to stop himself grinning like an idiot but it failed completely. "It's all yours," He beamed, what was it about her that brought out this side in him? He couldn't help but wonder, but knew he wouldn't have it any other way. The boy's hands moved from around the girl's waist, shifting back toward him a little to rest on her hips as his face pulled back just enough to end the kiss, a soft smile lingering on his lips. "Go finish work, I don't want you to get in trouble - I'll see you after, come stay with me on my bus.. I got snacks." He said, playfully taking her hands and swinging them from side to side.
Margaret's hands moved down to rest on his chest as they parted, his soft smile causing her own to grow on her lips. Trying to give him a pout when he said she should go finish work, but it was near impossible since she felt like she could do nothing but smile. "Mhm...work, but what if I like being with you and kissing you more?" She teased raising one of her eyebrows. Glancing down at their hands and let her smile immediately grow, "But you're right...and I guess it is worth being apart from you for a short time if there are snacks included after." Her hands squeezing his softly, not being able to get over the fact of how amazing if felt to be this close to him.
The moment he steadied their hands, Carter's thumb began to gently brush against the back of Margaret's hands. His smile only growing even bigger when he noticed the blonde looking down at their intertwined hands. "Well then I guess that means we're on the same wavelength because that's all I want to do for the foreseeable future," He teased, leaning in and planting a few soft pecks to the girl's lips, beaming as he did so. "I'll even shower for you so I'm not so gross," He joked, he was very energetic especially on stage so that usually had him covered in sweat by the end of their set. "I'll see you soon," He grinned, giving the girl's hands a gentle squeeze.
Margaret moved her eyes back up to his when his thumb brushed against her skin. "Oh?" She asked, feeling herself smiling against his lips as he kissed her. Their smiles did not falter, but that wouldn't get in their way. Now that she got a taste of him and this affectionate side, she knew for a fact she would never be able to get enough. She wanted nothing more than to spend every day with him, making as many memories as possible. Margaret gave him a dramatic gasp at his statement, "For me? Well aren't I lucky?" She laughed and shook her head. "Love you," She mumbled before leaning in to press one more soft kiss to his lips, knowing she will never be able to get tired of those wonderful words. Once she parted she stepped back and let her fingers brush against his as her hands moved from his. Knowing that the rest of the concert would be spent patiently waiting to be back in his arms again.
Carter couldn't help but chuckle as the girl gasped. "Very lucky," The boy teased, knowing full well that the real reality being that he was the one who was lucky. In every sense of the word, especially when it came to being with Margaret. "Love you," A cheesy smile washing over his lips, he'd spent so long being terrified of letting that word slip in this context that it almost felt silly to him now. Planting one final kiss to the girl's lips before turning on his heels and heading for the dressing room, glancing back over his shoulder to watch the girl moving in the opposite direction, a content sigh falling from his lips as he did so.
Tagging: Chloe Lynn & Alex Cross
Where: Linlithgow, Scotland - UK
When: March 12th, 2019
Notes: Chloe and Alex have a picnic in front of a fireplace and take the time to talk and get to know each other.
Chloe
"Oh God. I still can't believe we're actually here. In a castle!" Chloe said as she her hand was on a stone ledge and she peered out the clear glass which overlooked the front. "This is surreal. Wonderfully surreal." She looked back to Alex with a smile before turning to lean agains the ledge. "And this picnic in front of a fireplace spread is such a romantic idea." Chloe had to admit this really was nice, even when she felt nervous about everything to come.
Alex
"I'm glad you like it this much." A soft smile tugged at the corner of Alex's mouth as he looked back at her. Chloe's enthusiasm for the small castle made the trip to Scotland more than worth it. I have my moments," he winked playfully. He placed another log on the fire and got back to his feet, moving to where the picnic was set up. "It's not always you get to have an inside picnic in a castle after all."
Chloe
“It’s really not. And to think we can come back here whenever we want.” Chloe went to where everything was set and sat down. Her long skirt smoothed over her legs after she tucked them to the side. “It’s wild,” she picked up a cracker and held it. “We’ve been in this whirlwind of trying to make sure we can make a wedding happen in the time given that we haven’t had any time to ourselves.”
Alex
Alex gave a short nod with his head, agreeing with Chloe. "How about we forget we have a wedding to plan and take some time for us," he suggested as he sat down.
Chloe
The cracker broke in half and Chloe eat the smaller piece first. “That’s a good idea.” She spoke around the bite. “How about you tell me about your family? Have they always lived in Lima?”
Alex
"Not always, my parents moved to Lima when I was a few months old, before that they lived in Nashville. Mom's family still lives around there and well," Alex reached for the bottle of wine, "my dad's family is from around here." He poured both of them a glass. "What about your parents?"
March 14, 2019
Chloe
“Have you ever thought of moving here?” Chloe finally ate the rest of the cracker and decided to get another but to add meat and cheese to it. “My dad and mom are from here. Our family has been here for a long time and we would be considered one of the elders but our wealth didn’t come in until my dad and some people think the money isn’t the same because it’s all tied up with sex.” She laughed. “Didn’t mean to say tied up but it works.”
Alex
"No, not even when my relationship with my parents where strained." Alex placed the bottle back and picked up a cracker. He chuckled. "Yeah, it works... people are far too close-minded at times. Want to bet that at least half the members of the higher counsel either been to one of your dad's clubs or bought a toy in one of your family's stores?" He put some cheese on his cracker and took a bite.
Chloe
This caused her to look at him with a small frown. “It’s strained?” Chloe is the type of person who was really close to her parents. They were practically best friends. “Oh. I will love to bet on that. Probably own most of the porns, too.” She watched him eat and set down her cracker and went to drink the water he poured. “Have you been to one of the stores?”(edited)
Alex
"Yeah, it was. They never approved of Melanie, in their eyes she was from the wrong side of town, came from a wrong social standing. So needless to say they weren't too pleased about my intentions to marry her," he explained," he explained, "It took years before they finally came around, and we got close again." He sighed. He loved his parents, and he knew that without their help after Mel's death he'd probably still be a mess, so he was grateful to have them back in his life again. He glanced up. "Can't say I have, but I did visit the online store ones or twice."
Chloe
"Ugh!" Chloe said as she put her glass down and moved to sit more in front of him. "Parents are always trying to get involved with how they feel about the people you're seeing. I had that with Marcus which I think is why all of the stuff was so fucked up with me in the first place. They put him with Quinn Fabray because of how powerful and respected the Fabrays are. I'm sure of it because that's just how Richard Jones is." Chloe rarely spoke badly about people, not unless it was warranted. "How long ago did Melanie die?" She didn't know how to asked this question but she wanted to know. "I helped with that site. It was fun."
Alex
Alex gave a small smile as she moved. "Did you and Marcus date before the couples got matched?" his eyes narrowed at the mention of Richard Jones, ever since the man's reply to his question he liked the man even less than before. "I can see him do that. Mess with his own son's happiness to better the Jones name. That man truly only cares about wealth, social standing and that people obey that fucked up wedding law." He reached for his glass, taking a sip. "Almost ten months ago. Though at times it feels like yesterday." Talking about Mel was painful, still, but Chloe had a right to know these things. "Really? In that case, my compliments. You are full of surprises aren't you?"
Chloe
She nodded. "Off and on for a long time. We broke up before I left for Italy. When I came back I saw he and Quinn were matched. We wanted to have a final goodbye, with us being together again, and it got out and I know it fucked this up with him and Quinn. Which I feel terrible about because I do want him to have an easy marriage with her." Chloe sighed out and laid a hand the blanket and looked at the fire. "Ten months is still so fresh. And then you found out you were matched to Laura not too far from that. You haven't even had a chance to fully grieve." Chloe looked back at him, still with that small frown of hers. "I like to think I am. Always keep myself doing something."
Alex
Alex listened while she talked. "That must have been quite the shock to get home too." He looked at her. "Hey, I get you feel terrible about it but you're not the only one who screwed it up, Marcus did too. Did you guys tell Quinn that, that it was a final goodbye?" He didn't know what else to say or ask about it. "I hope they can work things through and come to an understanding. He nodded and reached for a fork, so he had something to do with his hand. "It probably sounds strange but being matched with Laura, it helped so much in getting my life back on track. I was a mess right after Mel died," he looked down, "Knowing that Faith's birthday is coming up soon; it brings it back." He tipped his head as he looked at her, seeing that small frown. "I'm fine. Or as okay as one can be. I got my good days and every now and then I've got a bad one," he assured her. "It's good to keep busy, doing different things. Do you have any other plans aside from opening your own club?
Chloe
This wasn’t Chloe’s proudest moment and she shook her head. “We kept it to ourselves but the gossip blog had someone mention us disappearing and it spiraled. Quinn was told after it was found out which made it one thousand times worse.” As soon as she let that settle she added, “But know I’m not going to do that to you. I’m committed to this marriage and to you. I don’t want you to think I’ll get with Marcus again.” This pained her but she meant it. “That makes me happy Laura was able to help. I’m sorry she’s not the one you’re marrying because she was there for you in a way that helped and you two were hot together. And I bet Faith adored the hell out of her.” Chloe said as she reached over and touched his hand. “If you ever need a distraction or want me to take Faith for awhile when you’re having one of those bad days, let me know. I want to be there for you. And yes. I do. I’m expanding the studio so I can add an actual stage for shows.”
Alex
"Things always turn ugly the second a gossip blog picks up on a story, doesn't it?" It was one of the reasons Alex choose to live in Columbus for so long; there he was just Alex, in Lima, he always felt that he was Alexander Cross, the oldest child off while growing up. "I honestly hope they can work things out between them. Are you on speaking terms with Quinn at all these days? He nodded. He could feel the honesty in her words. "That's good to know. And I am too, committed to this marriage and you that is." An honest laugh fell from his lips. "We were hot together? That's," he chuckled as a twinkle reached his eyes, "that's quite the compliment? Yeah, she did." He turned his hand under her touch, giving hers a soft squeeze. "I will," he promised. He leaned into her space, his dimples showing as he smiled softly. "Enough sad talk, which by the way, thank you for listening. Now tell me about all about this plan of you to expand the studio with a stage. What brought that on?"
Chloe
“It really does! And I usually let those things not bother me but it fucked things up for Mar and I just got so angry. It wasn’t anyone’s business to know!” Chloe hated how it felt that Quinn hasn’t moved past that, with her not spending much time with Marcus or making plans for their future. “Quinn and I never talked in the first place. She’s one of those who thinks I don’t belong because of where our money comes from. She’s been vocal about it. But fuck her, you know. I refuse to let people like her get under my skin. If she wants to be ugly and judgmental that’s on her. Not me.” Chloe’s fingers pressed between Alex’s and she brought her other hand over to move her fingertip across the skin of his fingers as she looked down at them. “It’s the truth. Both of you were sexy. I really liked Laura. She’s one of those rare honest people in Lima. Just wish she was still around.” Her fingers went to his ring finger and she added, “I should get you a ring but maybe wait until we get married? It isn’t like we have a long time until we’re back here and committing to each other. Hopefully for more than the required three years. I’m just that type of person who sees marriage as sacred and not some contract. Even when it technically is. But it’s more along the lines of fate. That this is the world we live in for a reason. That good and bad things happen and things play out in life and that we just go for it.” Chloe looked back up at him with a small smile after she spoke. “And do you really want me to get into studio talk? I can talk your ear off about it.”
Alex
"All you can do is be there for Marcus, be his friend and help him get through those three years. And indeed, fuck her and everybody who's that judgemental," he agreed. "She's not worth having high blood pressure over." He smiled, looking down at their joined hands. "That was one of the things I liked about her; she was honest. And from what I see from you so far, you got that same quality. Plus you're also hot and sexy," he added playfully, softly tugging her hand, wordlessly asking her to move closer. He smiled. "You want to put on a ring on me? I thought that was my job." As much as he tried, he couldn't stop smiling when she mentioned that she saw marriage as something sacred. "I feel the same. And that's what I want for us, a real marriage." He chuckled. "Well, it's either letting you talk about the studio because I know how much it means to you or finally give in to this almost overwhelming desire to kiss you..."
Chloe
The more he talked the more Chloe smiled because ever since they started to talk, before they were arranged, she felt they got each other. There was no raised eyebrow or questioning her point of view. “Aww. I know I’m both those things but it makes me happy to hear you say it. Also I think men who wear rings are super sexy and maybe I want to do something different.” She winked at him and went ahead and took his tug as her cue to move and get in his lap. Chloe moved carefully over to him and sat sideways, draping her arm around him. “Sorry. I like to make myself comfy. You can always push me off if I’m being too forward.” She joked with a laugh. Her hand went to his chest and Chloe’s eyes settled on his once again. “I’ve wanted you to kiss me for such a long time. Even before we were matched.” She admitted while her fingers walked up his chest until the palm settled on his shoulder.
Alex
"I'm all for doing things differently," Alex mentioned as she sat in his lap. He chuckled at her joke as he let his hand slide along her back, resting it on her hip to keep her close. "Is that so? Since before we were matched," he repeated, slowly leaning down to close the distance between their lips. "Let's end that waiting right now," he smiled as he brushed his lips over hers.
NOTES/WARNINGS: Blaine & Sebastian walk (read: stumble) into each other at the Underground. Aka: lots of drinking. Is probably going to get nsfw eventually.
BLAINE:
To say that Blaine felt out of place at The Underground would be an understatement, yet tonight, he was trying to make the best of it. He wasn’t entirely sure what had even made him come here in the first place, his brain feeling foggy from the alcohol, but he definitely wasn’t planning on leaving anytime soon. The stool he was sitting on was comfy, his drink tasted like rainbows and the tattoo on the bartender’s upper arm seemed to move everytime he handed someone their drink, resulting in a series of giggles from Blaine. It wasn’t exactly his usual idea of a fun night, but it was entertaining enough.
When Blaine leaned forward to try and get the bartender’s attention, he suddenly noticed a very familiar face standing at the bar. Without hesitation, he jumped off his stool, and stumbled over towards the person. “Sebastian Smythe,” he exclaimed, looking at the boy as if he’d never seen him before. Then, he leaned in to whisper in his ear. “Did you know that you’re really tall? I mean really tall.”
The skating had been great, the music was fun, there were some lights, and Cooper got to hold Jackie's hand or wrap his arms around her the whole time to help keep her up. They'd moved over to the cafe to have some hot chocolate and talk. Once he ordered the two hot chocolates Cooper raised an eyebrow. "How are your legs? Do you want to walk a bit or sit and talk?" he asked, a smile on his face.
The date had been wonderful so far. She got to spend the time being close to him, smiling, laughing. It was everything like she imagined. But as the date went on she knew what was coming. They had to talk. Once he spoke a smile spread on her face as well. “They are alright, if I didn’t have your strong arms to help me I would have been sure before.” She took a step towards him with a knowing smile on her face. “I think they can handle anything after our nights together.” She said softly not letting people around them here. “But we should sit, get some time to relax.” Leading them over to a table she spotted. “Thank you for catching me the few times gravity decided to not be on my side.” She said as they sat down.?
Cooper followed Jackie and sat down at a table out of the way. "Well I wasn't about to let you fall on your adorable behind and bruise it." He took a sip of his hot chocolate before reaching for Jackie's hand. "This was a lot of fun, we should do it again. And it will be even easier next time. You probably won't feel like you're going to fall nearly as much, but I'll still be there." He stuck his finger into the whipped cream on his chocolate and had a taste. "You wanted to talk about something tonight though."
“What in the world did I do to get so lucky?” Jackie asked, even though she asked she couldn’t help but also wanted to know. When he held out his hand she gladly took his hand. Taking her own sip of the hot chocolate as well. “I agree, I would love that. I will still take any excuse to be close to you, you know that.” Her eyes couldn’t help but wander down as he had a taste of the whipped cream. Humming softly at what he said, “Yes, yes I did. With these amazing dates and the more dates we want to go on...there are things I wanted to tell you.” She started before taking a sip of her drink before letting out a breath. “It is sort of part of what I mentioned about me being human and not making the best choices sometimes but wanting to learn from them.”
“Oh how about just by being your awesome happy self,” Cooper teased with a grin. “You’re easy to please aren’t you? You know I don’t mind keeping you close while I’m here.” He took another drink of his hot chocolate. He nodded his head. “Alright.... what were these choices and how are you going to learn from them?” Cooper asked sitting up a little straighter and looking at her, worry creasing his brow.
“Very easy to please when I am with such a great person.” She complimented and squeezed his hand softly. Her thumb brushing along his knuckles. The moment she saw the worry on his face she felt nervous. Even though she had no reason to be nervous, she was just being honest. “Well...I am very use to hook ups with people and maybe single dates here and there. So back before Christmas and two times after we had our first night together...I did hook up with other people.” She tried her best to keep her eyes on him, she wanted to put it all on the table and to be honest. “But after them and before New Years, I haven’t done so since. After I noticed how different we were from other times for me.” Finally this part was off of her chest, but this next part was what she was worried about. She was prepared for any reaction or at least she thought she was. “But...before we had our first night together. A few days before or about a week before...I did go on a date with Laura, your cousin. We just had the date and didn’t talk again until recently. I thought it was just a fun night, we kissed but that was it. Not that it makes it any better...” she rambled off the last part adjusting in her seat. “I was caught up in us and everything and I didn’t even think of it until recently. But you deserve to know...and I understand if this changes things.” The last part she added on softly.
Cooper smiled as Jackie's thumb ran over his knuckles. He nodded his head as she explained, his tongue coming out to lick over his lips. He closed his eyes, bowing his head as Jackie talked about the hook ups she'd had in the last little while. It was surprising to him and Cooper mentally chastised himself for not expecting it. His eyes opened when she mentioned Laura though and he pulled his hand from hers, wrapping both hands around his cup and busying himself with taking a sip. When she softly added that she'd understand if it changed things Cooper nodded his head.
"I ... I don't know," Cooper said honestly. "This wasn't what I expected but maybe I should have. Thank you for telling me though, especially about Laura. She's not just my cousin, she's like another sister to me. And I..." he trailed off thinking about their messages earlier that day and feeling like a jerk, "yeah, not expected." He frowned, taking another sip of the hot chocolate. "When was it? With Laura? And it was...just kissing? Do you like her? Should I be stepping back here?"
Jackie looked down when he moved his hand from hers. She expected that, she instead moved her hand to fiddle with her sweater she was wearing. She looked up in time to see him nod, the last thing she wanted was for things to change but if it was the trade for her being open and honest so be it. Her hot chocolate being left on the table, too distracted from the situation at hand to drink it. Not being able to focus on much when her stomach seemed to be fluttering with nerves. “I know it’s...a lot. And you think or thought so highly of me. I’m sorry for that.” Her voice was soft, trying to read his expressions. When he mentioned Laura she nodded. She would answer any question he had. “It was the Thursday before Christmas. We went to dinner and a movie. We just kissed. And I like her as a sweet woman I was glad to spend time with. But...I didn’t think much more of it.” She said softly looking down again, starting to pull at the material of her sweater. “But no...you don’t need to be stepping back not at all. I wouldn’t want you to...”
Cooper shook his head again. “It’s a me thing not s you thing, unless /you/ think it’s a lot then too and in which case why’d you do it?” he rambled softly. “Thursday. And we saw each other Monday the first time. Why didn’t you say anything then? We have the same last name I might have even mentioned her...” Cooper trailed off. “Oh. Because I was just going to be another hook up too.” He looked down at the table, fingers flexing against the side of his mug. “I’m not here to shame you. I know it probably seems like I am but there are plenty of people who are like you and hook up with a lot of people or just go on single dates here and there. But I’m not one of those people, even if I wish I was at the moment.” He took a sip of his hot chocolate again and was quiet looking out the window. “I might hate myself for asking but I didn’t quite follow you and I... think I need a clearer picture. How many people and when did you hook up with anyone since the 23rd? Has there been anyone else you’ve just kissed? Like Laura?”
“Why? Because....because I have always lived that way. I thought that even if I thought we could possibly end up going on more dates that I couldn’t be any more to a person. I didn’t think that the one night between us would turn into this.” When he said he was another hook up she had to try so hard not to reach out to him. “Cooper...” But she listened to what he had to say next and shook her head. “No...no you don’t want to be like that. When you meet someone that you care about, that makes you feel special, it makes you wonder how you put up with anything else.” Jackie had worry and guilt all over her face. She thought she needed his touch before but now? She wished she could be in his arms. “I have hooked up with two people. But no other dates.” Jackie thought for a moment before continuing wanting to make sure we got the details right. “Yes, on the 24th I hooked up with Beka, then after Christmas I stopped by to see Chloe. Then her, I and Chloe on another night. I don’t remember exactly which day.” She moved her hands down to her lap and looked down at them. “It’s not an excuse but...I’m just not use to people wanting to learn so much about me, wanting to take me on dates and simple things like making me breakfast? That is new to me. I should have told you sooner I know, I could have found out what this means for the both of us.” A breath left her lips, as she tried to stay calm and collected. “You mean more than I thought you would....I haven’t been able to even think of going out with anyone else since our first date. Even before that.”
"That was my fault. For not making myself more clear," Cooper decided. "Not that I expected this, but when I invited you over that night it was just to watch a Christmas movie, decorate the tree, get to know you. .... I shouldn't have let us get carried away. I should have focussed on getting to know you. Maybe you would have mentioned Laura then." He looked up, tilting his head. "Why don't you think you can be anymore to someone? You're a great girl Jackie... this... doesn't change that. Smart, funny, sensitive, always up for a good time. And I don't just mean sex." Seeing the worry and guilt on Jackie's face it was hard to not reach out, but he couldn't. Not right now when he still felt so raw and exposed himself. Instead Cooper folded his arms over his chest. "Two people but three times? " he asked. "Beka, Chloe, and then the two of them together? And you don't remember when?" He had a hard time believing she didn't remember when, and he was trying very hard not to get upset. Mostly he was upset with himself. "I honestly wouldn't have expected this considering how many nights we've been together since that first night, so I guess that means you've been with me, and other people, all in the same day?" Cooper rubbed at his forehead. Now his mind was filled with things he really didn't want to think about. Cooper nodded his head. "I could have told you more too. And not let you question what was going on here. I didn't expect this to happen either, but I was glad it was. I should have been honest about what kind of guy I am, and the kind of relationships I usually get involved in, because this was, never like anything else for me. "
Jackie listened to what he said. Maybe he was right...maybe things could be different then. But what he said next she didn’t understand how he could still think that after what she admitted. “I don’t think I deserve it.” Jackie admitted glancing up at him for a moment. “I haven’t...given myself a chance to open up to anyone for that. You are the first person in awhile that I have really opened up to. God I swear I’ve told you more than some of my good friends know.” Finally she glanced back down at her hands. Trying to distract herself from her mind wandering too far. “No one has really tried it told me they wanted more with me. I’ve always just been there for a good time for people. So that is all I have let myself get use to.” It felt so odd to say that out loud. “I mean I have an idea but it is hard to think clearly right now. I don’t want to lie to you.” She nodded at what he said next though. “Yes you’re right.” Jackie wasn’t sure if she could feel even more guilty but she felt sick to her stomach. “Was?” She asked softly, her voice just above a whisper. It was like she could physically feel things falling from her grasp. But she tried her best to not show as much of that pain. It didn’t feel fair for her to feel hurt. Not now. “There was a lot that could have been done...but if I wouldn’t have been so thoughtless...we could be planning another date.” Jackie let out a breath and she tried to hide how shaky is was. “This was different for me too. No one has ever had me feeling so special.” She admitted, still not bringing her eyes up.
"What? Why don't you think you deserve it?" Cooper asked. He took a breath and pushed forward. "You have to do it for you. Not for anyone else. Making people happy is a good thing. And the feeling, is indescribable, but you also have to put yourself and your needs first. Because honestly, very few people will put you first, consistently." He still couldn't reach out and touch her, but he did clear his throat. "Look at me, please? You're worth more then that. And if you've learned anything from...this... learn that. Please?" Cooper nodded his head. "It hurts," he admitted. "I know you didn't do this on purpose, hurt me, and it's just how you live your life. Maybe it's just an example of a way we're not compatible in comparison to the ways we are."
"Was... Is? I think we're kind of discussing what this could be or not?" Cooper offered. "You weren't thoughtless. You didn't know I'd care about it as much as I do. That I'm not a hook up guy. Apart from how this started, I've only had one "hook up". I've been with 12, no...13 people in my life and with the exception of one, I've slept with those others multiple times." He took another sip of his hot chocolate. "I guess in my head I hoped that was a same page we were on. And I probably made it into more than it needed to be." Cooper blew out a breath. "That's a shame because you really are special and you should be made to feel that way."
“I don’t know...I really don’t. Maybe I’m worried that people are too good, the ones who could want a relationship. But here I am...just a single dance teacher in a small town, who flirts more than she probably should...one who seems to miss any chance of doing or being anything more than that.” Those words, the ones that made her grin from ear to ear made more weight add to her shoulders. They even slumped, her lips parted as she tried to make words but...she couldn’t. When he asked her to look at him she hoped to god she looked more composed than she felt. She looked up at him and brought her hand up to move hair from her face. “Okay...” she said softly, that was all she could muster. Jackie knew if she spoke at any other tone it would show exactly how she felt. “I will.” But what he said next hit her harder than it probably should have. They had only gone on a few dates, knew each other for a little more than a week...but him just saying maybe they aren’t compatible, it made her feel like she was losing someone she knew for much longer. She looked out the window, she had to stay composed. Jackie did this to herself. “You didn’t make it into more, Cooper...I feel that too. Ever since New Years. On the beach...I felt it too. I still...” she started to say then looked down again. She still wanted him, more than anything. But that didn’t feel fair to say. Not now.
“Jackie,” Cooper sighed. “You are so much more than that. If you’re talking about people who are too good you need to look in a mirror. And a little flirting, well if it hurt all of Doveport would be in trouble,” he managed to get out without breaking down. He blinked back the tears that threatened.
Cooper nodded, he knew, it had been something different. He didn’t argue the point as to the when he’d felt more; it wasn’t worth arguing. “I know. I still ... too... but I need to sort out this and decide what I am comfortable with. I also have to talk to Laura. I hope you can understand?” He stood up and held out his hand. “Let me take you home?”
Jackie couldn't hold it back, a shaky breath left her lips at what he said. Regardless of what happened he still thought highly of her, he still tought she deserved good things. She didn't deserve that, it didn't feel like it. "T-thank you, Cooper." She got out as steady as she could. "Yes, of course. Take...all the time you need. Whatever you want or end up wanting to do..." She assured, that is the least she could do. Give him any time or any answers to help him. As he stoood up she was ready to find another ride home, not sure how much more time he would want to spend with her. But hen he held out his hand and offered to take her home, her lips parted. God, still...after all of this he is being so polite and patient and kind. It made her heart ache, she tried to blink away any possible tears before looking up at him. She nodded at him before taking his hand and standing up, grabbing her bag as well.
“You’re welcome Jackie,” Cooper replied. “I mean it. And everyone knows it. Everyone has nice things to say about you when I talk about you.”
“I’ll try not to take too long,” he offered. “Maybe we can talk again in a couple of days and see how we feel once the hurt has settled.” Cooper took her hand in his and walked her out to the car. The ride was quiet but when he stopped Cooper leaned over and cupped her cheek before pressing a kiss to her forehead. “Take care Jackie. Be good to yourself.”
Jackie took in his words, looking away for a moment before meeting his eyes again. "That is...nice to know." She said softly, giving him a small smile. Even if it didn't feel true at this point maybe there was something to it. Her attetion went back to him when he spoke. "Take as much time as you need. I knew this wouldn't be easy to take in." She said softly, "But I would like that...to talk again after everythings settled." To be honest she knew she would keep paying attention to her phone to hear from him. Jackie let her eyes close for a moment once he kissed her forehead. Out of habit her hand moved on top of his that cupped her cheek, not moving it just yet. Once she opened her eyes to meet his she nodded. "You too, Cooper." She said softly before moving her hand from his and getting out of the car. Jackie tried her best to stay composed until she got to her door, once it closed behind her she slid down it. Moving to put her face in her hands. Finally letting out the emotions she had been holding it.
WHO: Blaine Anderson ( @northsideblaine ) & Roman Lynn ( @roman-lynn )
WHAT: Blaine goes over to Roman’s trailer. There’s some cuddling and Romaine oppressing their tensions. A long ass para that took forever to do.
WHEN: Wednesday night, January 16th
WHERE: Roman’s couch in his trailer
WORD COUNT: 7,818
Blaine:
Standing outside of Roman's door, there was a voice in the back of Blaine's mind that said this was a bad idea because of the accidental nude and their history but that voice was quickly silenced by the fact that Roman was one of Blaine's oldest friends. They had known each other for much longer than either could remember and before they ever slept together it wouldn't have been too unusual for Blaine to hang out with him -- though typically Dare was also with him. Today, however, his twin was probably one of the last people he wanted to see.
Leaving his car at home and taking an Uber to avoid anyone knowing he was in Sunnyside, Blaine took out his phone to text Roman. It wasn't some ungodly hour but with everything that was going on with the Serpent, it wouldn't be a surprise that he was already asleep -- so it was a pleasant surprise that he was still up and willing to let Blaine in. Tucking his phone away into his pocket, he wanted for the door to open and see Roman's face appear before giving him a weary smile. "Hey... Sorry to just show up like this and so late too..."
Roman:
Roman hadn’t been expecting company, mentally he wasn’t really in the best shape for it. He had taken a leave from social media for the day, choosing not to see the drama continue to build, bursting at the seams, ready to blow up at any moment. He went through the day as normal, working from 7am-4pm followed by a nap and then eating frozen taquitos in his boxers while watching Netflix. He needed a detox from everything involving the Serpents—they could live without him for one day.
The text from Blaine shook him out of his daze, and he looked hesitantly at the door. Blaine was the last person that Roman had expected to find on his doorstep past sundown, especially considering their most recent interaction. Roman could look past the insane sexual chemistry between them—at least for one night.
Pulling himself up from the couch and throwing on the first pair of pants, Roman carded his hand through his hair before opening the door to find Blaine. “Hey...you’re out late”, he said as he held the door open for the other man to come inside.
Blaine:
It felt like their town was in a pressure cooker, heat slowly rising and everything ready to blow until there was nothing left. Every week it felt like there was something worse happening. A killer on the loose, trailer parks burning down and that was on top of the normal navigating drama between friends and relationships. So, finding a minor escape in a place not very many people would think of to find him and with someone who was ---
Abs... Shirtless... Roman... Holy cow...
Of course, he had expected to find the Serpent relaxing after a long day but he hadn't prepared himself for the possibility of seeing Roman like this -- pants that had to have been put on in a hurry were hanging low enough that Blaine could see the curve of his hips, the deep-set v-line, tanned muscles toned and hard from construction and -- no he wasn't staring!
At least that's what Blaine was telling himself as he forced his gaze to focus on Rome's face, not that was much of a distraction either. It reminded him why helping his friend choose clothes for a date had been so hard... not hard but difficult. Yes, it was difficult because they had a tension between them that they both ignored because as people who had feelings for other people it wouldn't be right. Even though lately Blaine was feeling more lonely in a relationship than he did out of one... However, he loved Dare with his whole heart so he could endure anything. Even if his body was not on the same page at this moment.
A hand came up and rubbed the back of his neck, as Blaine went inside the trailer, letting the door close behind him. "Yeah... I know... I just--" What did he want? If he were single, he'd probably be here to kiss Roman and tangle up some sheets but that wasn't why he came, right? "Needed a friendly face and someone who is a weird place like me. Who understands..." Pulling off his hoodie, the t-shirt underneath sticking to it, Blaine had opted to be a lot more casual than usual tonight -- even his hair wasn't as gelled down as normal. "I figured you could use someone like that too..."
Roman:
Usually, whenever Roman had a late night caller at this hour, it usually led to sex. But, he didn’t know how to act when that visitor was Blaine. Blaine, who Roman had slept with six months prior and had kept the encounter to himself. Blaine, who had just recently sent Roman a nude on accident. He couldn’t be so sure anymore as the facts didn’t add up.
His eyes raked over Blaine’s body as he watched the normally put together man, shed himself of his layers, leaving him in just a t-shirt. Roman couldn’t help but stare, he’d seen that body up close and personal. He knew what it was like to kiss those lips. He knew each curve and dip of his body. He knew what Blaine looked like stripped down and bent over, pleading for Roman to fuck him.
Biting his lip to refrain from a groan, Roman moved back towards the middle seat of the couch, flopping back into the sagging cushion. “Weird place?”, Roman asked out of curiosity, crossing his arms on default. “What’s going on with you?”
Blaine:
Watching Roman take a seat on the couch, Blaine all but invited himself to sit as well, hoodie folded up on the arm. It shouldn’t be weird, it wasn’t like they had slept together once and only talked about it once or like Blaine still found himself wondering certain things… It wasn’t weird or awkward because they were friends. Buddies. Pals. Amigos. At least that’s what Blaine would keep telling himself until whatever this thing he was suddenly carrying around with him lately faded. He would act as normal as possible.
And normal for Blaine was him leaning against Roman, head propped against his shoulder, looking at the screen of the tv. He’d pretend not to notice the warmth of the other man’s skin, though it was much cooler than Blaine remembered from that night. The night of the party, it felt like Roman was made of fire, each touch scorching and etching themselves into his skin. “It’s just one of those days where everything feels off…” He said with a shrug. “Dare almost broke his hand last night, so he had to come over for me to bandage it up and I had to talk him down from a metaphorical ledge. He’s taking everything that’s happened, really hard.”
Blaine sighed softly and closed his eyes for a second, just enjoying the company next to him and feeling like he might be able to breathe for a bit. “Did you tell Harper about what happened or are you suffering in silence and alone because you’re afraid to worry her?”
Roman:
Being himself around Blaine should have been easy for Roman, instead of this awkward dance that they were doing. Blaine had said that he wanted to act as if nothing had happened between them, but this new normal had dropped their unresolved sexual tension in the air like a joke. Dangling it in front of their faces, forcing them to repress whatever feelings they had for each other, other than friendship. Roman could do this—he could. He could think clean thoughts.
Blaine wasn’t doing much to help the situation, leaning against Roman’s shoulder, causing him to stretch out his arm on instinct, welcoming Blaine closer. He looked down at the smaller man, trying to tame the heat he felt. The mention of Darius quelled the want in his body; Blaine was Darius’. The text that Blaine had ‘accidentally’ sent to Roman was for Darius.
“I—I’ve admittedly not spoken to him much since, the uh—setting the—fires. Barring like one conversation.” Roman rubbed at the back of his neck nervously, the thought of what he had done still causing him some inner turmoil. He had, against his better judgment, told both Harper and Ryder that he was responsible for the devastation to Ghoulie territory. They had similar reactions, one of disappointment. “I—yeah, she knows.” Roman huffed, letting his head hit the back of the couch. “And Ryder. I just—I’m disappointing everyone.”
Blaine:
The arm that went around Blaine -- bringing him in so close that the shorter man was pressed into Roman's chest, the shining metal bar in his nipple close enough that he could take it between his teeth with a teasing tug. It wasn't unwelcomed, in fact, he enjoyed the closeness but at the same time, it reminded him exactly what it was like to be intertwined with Roman, begging for more and moaning his name like forbidden prayers to a God that demanded tributes in the form of the heat that always electrified between them. It often made him wonder if they had continued after the party if the flash fire that smoldered there would have burnt itself out as quickly as it ignited.
However, Blaine had to remind himself that they weren't these kinds of people. They kind of people who slept together behind Darius' back, sure but not the kind of people who cheated and hurt the ones they care most about. No cardinal craving, no matter how earth-shattering, would be worth the pain it could cause to Harper and Dare. They belonged to other people and that left their desires undisclosed and tucked away in places Blaine could only visit when he was alone, with his his wrapped around him and his fingers probing until guilty whimpers spilled from his lips.
The conversation about their significant others helped to keep his mind on track and out of the darkest lust haze places. "She'll be okay... Ryd will be okay too... They will eventually realize you made a mistake and they'll forgive you..." He was sort of speaking from experience but also not because there was a part or him that wanted to hang on to how upset he was at Dare but that was because he was closer to the situation that someone like Harper. It would be easier for her to forgive because she had no emotional connection to Dani. Reaching up Blaine rested his hand against Rome's cheek.
"You guys messed up. You messed up really badly and there is no way around that or downplaying it... There may never be a way to make up for it but it's not unforgivable. People just need time to cool their heads and the storm will pass. You have to start forgiving yourselves too..."
Roman:
Blaine’s hand on his face was enough to calm the unrest in his stomach, the tumult of emotion placated by the look in his eyes. Brown eyes gazed into Blaine’s hazel ones, finding solace and peace. He felt grounded, brought back to the awful reality that was laid out in front of him; they had fucked up. Roman turned his cheek, clenching his jaw once Blaine’s hand was removed.
What Blaine was asking was difficult, he had no real connection to the Ghoulies, but he had destroyed peoples homes and families. He wasn’t that type of person. The type of person who thrived on making other people’s lives miserable. He may have been a petty thief, a drug mule, the leader of a gang—but was he a criminal? The answer ricocheted around in his head, a resounding yes floating around in the back of his mind. How could he forgive himself for something of this magnitude? How could he forgive himself for ruining lives? How could he forgive himself when he had fucked up one of the only good things he had going for him—Harper? How could he forgive himself when his own brother was disappointed in him?
“That’s—difficult, Blaine..” Roman ran a hand over his face, “it’s easier said than done. I just want to stop feeling like a bad guy”.
Blaine:
The expression in Roman's eyes melted Blaine from the inside out. He wanted to make his friend feel better. He wanted to lean up and kiss Roman until the sadness faded and the heat they generated distracted them both. But he didn't make a move. Instead, Blaine continued to rest against the larger body, wrapping Roman's arm tighter around him. "You're not a bad guy, Rome. The fact that you feel guilty is proof enough of that. None of you three are bad people. You made mistakes and it's going to be hard for a while but eventually, it'll pass. Ryder and Harper will come around and they'll forgive you. All you can do is learn from this and make sure it doesn't happen again."
Roman:
Roman felt his arm being tugged until it was dangled over Blaine’s shoulder, his fingers hovering just inches from Blaine’s chest. His body craved to touch—to splay his hand across the fabric of the tight t-shirt and feel the muscle of Blaine’s body. He had some restraint; Roman didn’t have any claim on Blaine, Darius did.
Roman knew that Blaine hadn’t forgiven him, but he seemed to be on the road to being able to. He hoped that Harper and Ryder would be able to follow in his example. “I know, B—hey, you never told me why Dare almost broke his hand?”
Blaine:
It was a good thing they were talking about Darius and Harper because the temptation to move to straddle Roman's lap right now was real. Blaine could have almost heard himself moan as he ground his hips down until the man that could be below him came. Or he could move his hand to Roman's thigh, running up the inside until he could feel him through his pants. Anything to feed that carnal desire to have Roman again, to satisfy the curiosity of if their mindblowing sex and tension was a fluke or could just be as toe-curling every time.
But the flames were cooled as Rome asked about his brother. Though, it still didn't stop Blaine from taking Roman's hand with his own, gently toying with his fingers. Blaine was naturally an affectionate person, even platonic touches. "Um..." He paused for a second thinking about Dare's hand and Dare's anger issues. "He punched a mirror. I guess the stress of everything is taking a toll and when he gets too frustrated he has to hit something or he does something self-destructive... like getting drunk in the forest and needing you to bring him back..." He said quietly, turning Roman's hand over and tracing the lines on his palm. "He keeps me on my toes, to say the least, and I always have to make sure my first aid kit is fully stocked."
Roman:
Despite the direction their conversation was going in, Roman felt his posture stiffen; his body reacting to Blaine’s ministrations. He kept his face neutral, trying not to give away to the growing issue that was his arousal. As Blaine spoke, he moved from toying with his fingers to tracing the lines on his palm—a slow tease to Roman, unbeknownst to the other man. His breath hitched, he wasn’t going to be able to hide the shape of him in just his sweatpants. All Roman wanted to do was to rip off Blaine’s clothes and bend him over the arm of the couch. But he had to keep it together. With Blaine still talking about Darius, Roman pulled away from Blaine to lean over the edge of the couch until his fingers grasped at the throw blanket he had tossed there a few days ago. He covered his lower half, muttering a quick apology for interrupting his story. With the blanket on, he was able to discreetly tuck the head of his now mostly hard cock into the waistband of his briefs. “The last thing we need right now is for him to fuck up his other hand,” he was able to say while keeping his cool. He hoped that Blaine was oblivious. “You’re good to him...for him”.
Blaine:
Fingertips gently brushed over every line like he was trying to find some fortune in them or as though Roman's palm could hold the answers Blaine was looking for. But honestly, all he saw in them was the rough callouses of the large hands that had once gripped his ass and wrapped around his dick or fingers that had probed and stretched him open until Blaine was nothing more but a mess begging to be filled. It really wasn't helping to keep his focus off of wanting to have Roman inside of him again and it especially didn't help the heat that was twitching in Blaine's pants. God, this was such a bad idea. Maybe he shouldn't have come here alone like this because if it weren't for the fact that Blaine knew too many people would be hurt, he would already be...
Wait...
His gaze had fallen away from Roman's hand for a second -- just briefly to gather himself and shoo away the very dirty thoughts, when he caught sight of the imprint in Roman's sweats. The Serpent was endowed enough that it was a little hard to miss the hard on and immediately Blaine could feel his stomach twist into knots as a blush settled on his cheeks.
It was almost half a welcomed relief and half a disappointment when the other man pulled away, hiding the obvious and suddenly Blaine forgot how to word. He bit into his lower lip and the thought that if he were single teasing Roman, pushing the boundaries further crossed his mind but he dismissed it as soon as it came with a flood of guilt. "I'm keeping you up, aren't I? And you have to work in the morning. You should go to bed and get some sleep," he said trying to be as casually as possible.
Roman:
With his arousal somewhat contained, Roman gave a sort of noncommittal shrug in lieu of an answer. He did have work in the morning and he did need sleep; construction was such a labor intensive job and he could hurt himself if he wasn’t properly rested. But, he selfishly wanted to keep Blaine around, the weird dance they had going on playing no part. But, just spending time with someone without thinking of the outside world felt nice right about now.
Roman feigned a pout and covered Blaine’s hand with his own, part of him shivering at the contact. “Don’t go.”, he asked, his voice barely above a whisper as he stared into whiskey-colored eyes. Eyes that could so easily have him make so many mistakes, that could have him fumbling with zippers and buttons. Eyes that he’s stared into while buried inside Blaine in the most intimate of ways. “Stay. Watch an episode of Queer Eye. It—it’s the one with the Mayor who wears the bad shoes”
Blaine:
God, the way Roman looked at him, with the hand resting over his that sent a shiver down Blaine's spine... He could already feel himself unconsciously leaning in because it would be so easy to have their lips locked together in kisses that could bruise and ignite fires that would burn them up from the inside out. A few inches wasn't that far apart but it might as well have been a distance no man could ever travel. He wanted to have Roman's hand in his hair, pulling his curls and mouth sucking on his skin in places no one would ever see. Bad decisions were made during reckless and spontaneous moments like this, where the desperation was almost too much to bear.
However... Blaine couldn't find the willpower to get up off the couch and put his hoodie back on. He should go home and take a cold shower or masturbate without further pushing his luck. But his body was screaming to be pulled in by a powerful magnetic force until he was impossibly closer to the other man. Did it make him an awful person that for a little while Blaine didn't want to remember there was a world outside of Roman's trailer? For one night could he shut off that part of his head that was always afraid and felt guilt? Maybe. It wasn't like they were doing anything wrong, after all. It was just friends hanging out like he had done with Marley a million times. The only difference is that Marley didn't have a dick that Blaine knew exactly what it tasted like. But still...
Just friends...
Giving himself an answer, Blaine carefully slipped out of his shoes with a nod. "Okay... but..." He shifted on the couch a little as he laid down while pulling the other man down with him. For once he was glad for his compact small stature as it left enough room behind him for Roman without them worrying about falling off as they watched tv. "Lay down, so you least you've got some chance of resting. I don't want to be the reason you break a finger from hammering or anything."
Roman:
There was a moment when Blaine stared back at him where Roman felt like the rest of the world could just fade away. There was nothing else beyond the four walls of his trailer; no broken pact, no burnt down trailer parks, no Harper, no Darius. It was him and Blaine.
He should have felt shamed by the guilt, should have told Blaine that it was best to leave. If anyone saw how they were interacting together, there would be a slew of suspicion. If anyone knew what all had happened between them six months ago—Hell, if anyone saw the texts between them from last week. Roman loved Darius, he was his blood brother, he never wanted to hurt him. Lust shouldn’t have been outweighed by loyalty.
He allowed Blaine to pull him down, intent on keeping his lower half away from the curve of Blaine’s ass. His hand on his own side to keep from wrapping around Blaine’s middle. “Don’t let me keep you—if I fall asleep, I mean”
Blaine:
In the back of his mind, Blaine wondered if he would be putting himself in such a compromising position with anyone else. Roman wasn't the only person he had ever had sex with, he wasn't the only person Blaine had lustful thoughts of or tension with an attraction to -- but for some reason, there was something that kept pulling him in.
Something about their dance around each other that was so powerful that it felt like things between them would always be unresolved. Would it have been the same if they had spent the rest of the Summer getting their fill of each other until the hunger was satiated? Or was it because it was forbidden in a way and so thrilling knowing they shouldn't?
Even before they belonged to other people, there was always that adrenaline tingle and nervous flip of his stomach that said that Rome should be off limits. He had always been Dare's in a way -- his best friend, occasional hookup, a partner in crime -- a territory and place Blaine shouldn't trespass on because it wasn't his to share.
Still... as they lay there, not close enough for his liking, but still close enough to feel the ghost of body heat against his back, Blaine swallowed hard. His breathing was shallow and his heart was racing a million beats a second, blood rushing through his ears with all the hairs on the back of his neck standing on end though Roman wasn't even touching him and Blaine wasn't daring to allow himself to touch either. All he could do was pretend to focus his eyes forward on the show instead of what he really wanted to do, which was push backward until his ass fit into the contour of Roman's body with the hard length pressed into him.
"I'm--- I'll... be okay... staying..."
Roman:
Roman’s mind raced with thoughts pinging around like a pinball machine. He wondered as they watched the television in a stifled silence, what life would be like had he and Blaine not hooked up all those months ago. Would it trigger a chain reaction? An alternate timeline where Roman and Darius never overthrew the Serpents, and he never felt feelings for Harper. What about if he and Blaine had continued their trysts? Where would they be now?
Roman was lost in his head, his eyes unfocused as his thoughts got jumbled around. He couldn’t fixate on what could have been—only on the now. He thought about Harper, the girl who had stolen his heart, but who he hid his feelings from in fear of embarrassment and rejection. They may not have been on speaking terms at the moment, but Roman hoped to change that.
He felt his eyelids grow heavy and even though he knew he shouldn’t, his body shifted in his semi-conscious state and he threw his arm over Blaine’s middle. “Thanks, B,” he said in his half-sleep, a yawn escaping his lips. “S’this okay?”
Blaine:
Feeling the arm wrap around him, their bodies that much closer didn't help relax Blaine at all. The episode on TV might as well have been in Korean or another alien language because nothing made sense as he was too focused on the sound of Roman's breathing. As much as he wanted to roll over, trace his fingers over every feature of the other man's face, the shorter one reminded himself that Roman wasn't his to memorize over and over again or map out with soft touches. They were only one moment of incredible sex and months of what-ifs.
Not that it was all bad because Blaine was deeply in love with Dare. Through all their good times and bad days like today where he felt like he could breakdown, he would always love his twin. And Roman was a good friend, someone he knew he could count on to hold him up during funks like this. Maybe it was better they hadn't burnt out after their Pompeii level explosion of their former entanglement. He couldn't imagine his life without this friendship.
That was enough to soothe his racing pulse and chaotic nerves, at least enough that he could pull Roman's arm tighter around him, pressing back until he could feel Roman's broad chest and muscles. Then Blaine took the taller one's hand again, fingers interlacing. "Harper is lucky to have you... She's good for you and when you two work things out, I'm going to be so glad to see you happy again..." He said slowly, mostly to himself expecting Roman to be asleep already.
Roman:
Roman didn’t expect to fall asleep so quickly; he wasn’t usually comfortable when lying on the couch for longer than an hour or so, but with Blaine’s hand in his, he felt himself sinking deeper into the cushions. His torso was pressed to Blaine’s back, his nipple ring brushing over the fabric of the t-shirt as his eyes fought to stay open. He heard Blaine mention Harper, setting a mental reminder to apologize to her yet again—to set things right. He hummed in agreement to whatever Blaine was saying, just content in this position, and within seconds was asleep.
It wasn’t until his internal body clock went off at around 6am that Roman woke up. During the night, he and Blaine had gotten close, perhaps too close. His head was lolled to the side, in the crook of Blaine’s shoulder, his body covering at least half of the smaller man’s. His cock was pressed deliciously into the crease of Blaine’s thigh, rock hard and wanting and he muttered a curse under his breath. Fuck
Blaine:
It was easy to find comfort with Roman's arm wrapped around his middle and easy to give into the warmth that collected between their body. After Blaine grabbed the remote from where it had fallen on the floor, turning off the TV and collecting the throw blanket that Roman had used before to cover them, he was able to cuddle into the other man. But sleep didn't come quite as fast for him as it had for the other. Especially not when he could feel the hot, steady breath on the back of his neck that made goosebumps collect in flocks.
It should have been innocent enough, just friends cuddling and something they both probably needed right now but Blaine's body apparently didn't get the memo of it being strictly platonic. All the desire they danced around, the tortuous craving to touch and be near him was making Blaine's body betray him, blood rushing into his pants. It also didn't help that the trailer was uncomfortably warm, making him have to strip off his shirt at some point and causing their bare torsos to touch.
What he wouldn't give to just roll over and trace his lips or even simply his fingers over every freckle, connecting them like constellations or pathways to destinations he had traveled to before but was yearned to visit once more. Maybe leaving behind tiny souvenirs that would fade over time, like carvings in a tree as proof that he was once there, in case he could never return again. Somehow, though, he managed to find sleep and it was a peaceful, restful sleep. Though somewhere inside, Blaine knew it we almost time to get up and get ready for work, his alarm should be going off soon. But he was too satisfied to even want to wake up. He was encompassed by the weight of a body on top of him, making him feel protected and safe with his arms the other one tightly. Being under Dare, feeling his hard cock presses into him and knowing his twin couldn't even stand to be separated or too far away even while they slept was always the best feeling.
Blaine wrapped his arms tighter around the larger body, shifting a little and pushed his hips up in a way that rubbed his own morning wood against the thigh. Morning sex was always good. Lazy touches and sleepy kisses, slow thrusting and drawn out pleasures until Blaine was afraid he was going to be late for work. Forcing himself to try to wake up more, ready to splay his hands over the muscular back and move to the front, it was then that everything came back to him in a haze. He had spent the night at Roman's... They had fallen asleep on the couch and the body on his own... the erection pressed into him wasn't Dare. Oh no... it would be awkward if he tried to move now so instead Blaine kept pretending to be asleep.
Roman:
In a perfect world, Roman would have no qualms with using Blaine to get off. Their touches would be welcoming rather than forbidden, their kisses heated as if they couldn’t get enough of each other. He would be able to just shuck his sweatpants down and rub against Blaine in such a way that would have them seeing stars behind their eyelids, bliss exploding between them in a hot and sticky mess.
He was put in an impossible position, lying on top of Blaine, the head of his cock leaking against the fabric of his sweatpants. Sparks slowly ignited in his core, the small upward thrusts from Blaine causing him to suppress a moan by biting his lip. He could feel the shape of Blaine through his pants, hard and wanting against his thigh. He noticed that Blaine’s shirt had been missing, their torsos flush against the other’s, copping it up to the heat of the night.
Blaine must’ve been having an interesting dream, Roman obliging him for only a minute before the brevity of the situation hit. He eased himself off the smaller framed man and stood up, pressing the heel of his palm into the angry hard-on boned up in his sweats as his eyes gazed over the object of his lust.
He snuck into the bathroom, having to get ready for the day, his work week just about to end. He stepped out of his sweatpants, his cock bouncing up and hitting his belly, twitching with genuine interest. He started the water, getting under the spray and taking himself in hand while desperately trying not to jerk himself off to images of Blaine. He just had to breathe.
Blaine:
There was a ting of guilt for just a moment over the fact that Blaine's hard dick was pressed against someone and it wasn't Darius. And there was enough more guilt over the fact that all he could think about in that very moment was reaching between them and letting his hand slid into Roman's sweats until they were a pile of messy and sticky limbs tangled together.
It was a relief when the weight was off of him and Blaine heard the door to what he assumed was the bedroom or bathroom close. But it also made him pout because he was missing the warmth of having Roman pressed so close. But it was finally then that he could sit up and look down at his lap. Right there, shifted to the left was an unmistakable erection. Oh dear God, Roman must have felt that it was impossible not to miss the obvious bulge. Sighing to himself, Blaine pressed the heel of his palm against his groin, biting his lower lip to hold back a grown. It was the opposite of trying to will it away like he had wanted and it got worse when he heard the shower start.
Images of Roman naked and fully hard under a stream of hot water filled his imagination, making Blaine's cock throb. He needed to leave... Oh God this was the worst time to be asking for space from Dare because all he wanted was to see his twin before work and help get a release from the heat and lust coiling like vines around his entire body. For the briefest moment, Blaine even considered taking matters into his own hands right then and there but he quickly dismissed that as it would be wrong.
And he really didn't even really have much time before it sounded like the water was shutting off. Damn. In a panic, Blaine quickly laid back down, shutting his eyes hoping it didn't even look like he had moved at all.
Roman:
Roman was surprised by his willpower; despite his aching erection that was begging for sweet release, he was able to refrain from getting himself off to images of Blaine. The man who had been pressed into him with an erection rivaling his own in hardness. The man who Roman had issues forgetting about over the summer, that had him itching to find a similar connection. He wouldn’t do it—it wouldn’t be fair to Darius. It wouldn’t be fair to Harper. It wouldn’t be fair to Blaine, or even himself.
For that reason, he didn’t want to spend much time in the shower, taking away the opportunity to get himself off. As he shampooed his hair, Roman’s cock slowly made its way to a half hard state, not taking too kindly to being ignored. He was able to soap up without the slight perk of interest and upon rinsing off, he found his would-be erection manageable. Once he was finished, Roman turned the water off and toweled down, wrapping the towel around his waist before opening the door.
He peeked his head out the door frame to find Blaine still asleep, and for a brief moment, Roman wondered if his friend was still hard. He shook the thought out of his head, focused solely on going through his normal routine. He walked from the bathroom into the bedroom, just the next door over, and grabbed his work clothes out of his dresser. Boxer briefs, jeans, and his orange Hudson Construction tee were laid out on the bed.
He dropped his towel, forgetting that the door was open, his ass in view of Blaine, had the other man opened his eyes. He took the black briefs and turned as he slid them on, giving a full frontal view of his goods. Roman adjusted his semi in the briefs before pulling his jeans on one leg at a time. It was then that Roman took to check his phone, letting out an audible gasp when he saw the number of messages and their content. 43 missed messages—Franco was missing. “Fuck”, he cursed, hitting the door frame before wincing at remembering Blaine asleep on the couch.
Blaine:
There was a sinful part of Blaine that wondered; if he got up right now and went into the shower with Roman, how would that end. With his hand wrapped around the erection he had felt pressed into him, would the Serpent have him pinned against the wall until Blaine was begging for more or would he be turned away in rejection? No one would have to know and it could be kept between them -- just like their Summer fling. If no one knew, no one could get hurt.
Except... the part of Blaine that knew what was right and what was wrong, was immediately flooded with shame at the thought. Harper was a good person and Dare was the love of his life, they didn't deserve that kind of betrayal. Roman didn't deserve to carry around another secret like that either. It was bad enough they were keeping their tryst from the party from everyone.. Well, almost everyone because Blaine had told Marley about it. He confided everything in his best friend, even the accidental nude but not the fact that he still had such a lingering attraction towards his brother's best friend. That was something he kept purely to himself and for his private moments when he'd allow himself to indulge in those desires.
Blaine was pulled out of his thoughts at the sound of movement from the bathroom to the other room. Daring to peek open an eye, he regretted that instantly because what his gaze was met with didn't at all help the heat flooding his pants. In fact, the sight of Roman's naked body, made him ache and throb even harder. Every inch of muscles and tanned skin, semi-hard dick as well as places Blaine's hand and mouth had been only once before; on display tempting him into giving in to his lustful impulses.
Oh dear God...
Blaine had sat up and was ready to pounce, satisfying the need to ride his friend until they both buckled and collapsed exhausted. But the sound of Roman cursing and hitting the door frame, scared the shorter male so much, fearing that he had been caught, he had fallen off the couch with a hard thump. Staring with wide eyes, a dozen apologies crafted on the tip of his tongue, ready to beg for forgiveness but all Blaine could do was stare.
Roman:
Roman read through the influx of messages on his phone, one hand nervously running over the nape of his neck as he finally typed out a response to Darius. He had no excuse other than he was in his own feelings, the guilt already starting to prod at him. He had taken it upon himself to hide away from the world, and it all turned to shit anyway. What he had forgotten in those two minutes was that he wasn’t alone.
A loud thump had his head jerking up and his heart pounding in his chest. Blaine. Fuck. Roman padded over towards the couch, his pants unbuttoned and slung low on his hips, his shirt still lying on the bed. He peered over the couch and outstretched his arm for the other man to take, “Sorry. I forgot you were still here and I woke up to not so great news.”
Blaine:
Here it was coming. Roman was heading his way and every sound of the footsteps of the other man, caused Blaine's heart to race. Any second now, he was going to look down at the still shirtless shorter male, and tell him that he was flattered by the fact that Blaine would creep on him but it was weird. Not to mention that it was highly inappropriate, all things considered. However, when Roman offered his hand and started talking, a flood of relief washed over him and finally, Blaine let out a breath he didn't even know he had. "Oh..."
With a gaze forcefully focused on Roman's face, Blaine pulled himself up off the floor, not allowing for the help because, to be honest, he didn't trust himself. He didn't trust himself to have that skin to skin contact, without his body betraying him again -- it still wasn't even all the way gone, especially now that he was eye level with the taller one's chest now. "Oh!" He echoed, remembering his shirt and quickly grabbing it from the floor, turning around to put it back on. "Is everything okay? Is it Darius? Did he do..." Blaine cut off mid-sentence, in a panic looking for his phone. If his brother was hurt, he'd have messages too.
Roman:
Roman used his upper body strength to pull Blaine up to a standing position. Their chests brushing against each other’s and their lips just ghosted over their cheeks, able to hear their breath from how close they were. The moment lingered for only a fraction of a second before it shattered like a mirror, Roman watching as Blaine frantically grabbing for his shirt. “Hey. Blaine”, Roman interjected, trying to shake loose whatever thoughts that were going through his friend’s mind.
“Darius is fine”, he added, placing a gentle hand on Blaine’s forearm. He didn’t want to alarm him by telling Blaine the news that Franco had gone missing; he had already promised Darius that he would take the day off and go searching in Ghoulie territory with Julian. But, he needed to gather his wits about him first. “Before you run out of here...eat something, will you?”, he asked, motioning towards the kitchen. “I gotta run out soon to help your brother so I can’t whip anything up, but like, cereal at the very least?”
Blaine:
It was a natural instinct that when there was Serpent trouble, Blaine's worst thought went automatically to Dare being hurt. It felt like his twin could never stay out of trouble and it seemed to only getting worse with age. Of course, when his phone didn't show any texts or missed calls it was obvious it wasn't Dare
But... the gentle touch of Roman's hand on his forearm - the warmth of fingertips on bare skin - it sent waves of nostalgia of hot summer nights, made only hotter by naked bodies pressed together in lustful passion. It shuddered through him like ripples on a still pond surface and it was hard now to stop the gravitational force pulling him once again into Roman's orbit.
There was always moral lines Blaine was never willing to cross -- cheating being very high on that list but it was hard to remember his scruples when whiskey-colored eyes were on him like that. Not when his friend was still shirtless, pants undone and the history there. God, there was only so much willpower even a good man like him could have. Every part of him wanted to say yes, and have an excuse to linger longer, just to bask in the Serpent but Blaine knew they were already pushing it too far.
Bringing up his free hand, Blaine placed it on Rome's cheek with a soft, if not smile that conveyed how much he really didn't want to go but... Allowing one last indulgence, he pushed up a little on his toes to press a kiss on the opposite cheek. "I need to go," he said in a voice thick with meaning and underline desire before falling back flat on his feet and taking a step back. "And you have something important to do anyway. Serpent business and all that."
Roman:
Roman let out a small breath, his eyes fluttering shut as Blaine kissed him on the cheek. His stomach flipped and his fists clenched, Roman craving the connection that they shared the night previous. With Harper and Ryder being distant, the closeness between Blaine and him had Roman itching for more of that positive human contact. But, he understood where Blaine was coming from and he appreciated him not digging any deeper.
“Thanks again, B”, he whispered, hoping he was conveying the right message. Hoping that Blaine understood how grateful he was for being there for him as a friend. Partially grateful that they hadn’t crossed that line. “Text me later then”
Blaine:
Blaine would always love Darius more than life itself. They would always be two halves of a whole and they would always be soul mates and there would never be someone who fit Blaine so completely -- But there would always be a lingering question in the back of his head about Roman. The greatest 'what-if' hanging around the edges of his mind, every time his thoughts dared to venture in his friend's direction. This whole encounter hadn't done much to ease those curiosities either.
Maybe it was better that they never knew? It was something Fate had planned for them? They were only meant just to be quick flames, that gave each other some light and heat in a time they needed it, before they found the hearths to make their homes.
Gathering his things and pulling his hoodie back on, Blaine took one second more to smile fondly at the Serpent he had been glad to know on so many levels. "You have a lot of people who care about you and a lot of people who are still mad at you, that need time to forgive you, so be safe out there," he said as he turned to leave the trailer, a little more than glad to finally be out of Roman's magnet pull. For the first time all night and morning, it felt like Blaine's heart and hormones weren't racing a mile a minute.
But even as he an Uber home, he still couldn't stop thinking about the feeling of the others cheek against his lips, fingers on his skin, erections pressed into each other and all the what-ifs they could have had in another life.
Lucas hung up the phone laughing. God, she was making it so easy. After June forgetting to inform him that she wasn’t stopping by, he had been pissed. No one should waste his time like she had, and he had made sure to let her know just now when she’d called him. A few days had passed but he was still bitter. However, he could tell by the hoarseness of her voice that she had been drinking and was feeling rather aroused. Soon Lucas had forgiven her. As if he was stupid enough to pass a chance of getting to feel her warmth again. He wouldn’t want to take advantage of her, but the drunkenness didn’t seem to be too consuming, plus she had basically just demanded his presence in Justin’s apartment, so it might even be considered rude to not show. He was grinning as he exited his apartment, dressed in casual pants along with a tight long-sleeved white shirt, which framed his upper half. He was muscular, and it definitely showed.
The drive wasn’t long, and he spend the entire time thinking about June. It had been so obvious what she wanted from him, and he had been in no position to deny her. Despite liking to have the upper hand and be in control, Lucas was a man of few pleasures, and indulging in women was by far his favorite past time – so when one called him up, practically begging for him to come satisfy her, who was he to say deny the request? A smirk spread across his face at what would go down, their last time together still stuck in his mind as a lasting memory. She had followed him to the shower after sex, and he had held her against the shower wall while pushing back inside of her. The hot water had reminded them both of how cold it got without closeness, which had led to him leaving marks on her body in a radius of wherever his lips could reach. He swallowed hard, and felt how the confinement of his pants was already becoming unbearable.
He parked effortlessly, and took his time in mounting the staircase which would lead him to where he needed to be. If he’d been the nervous type, he would have been shaking from anticipation but now. Lucas wasn’t. Instead, his tongue peeked out to lick across his lips as he knocked on the front door, car-key hidden away in his pocket as he awaited June to open the door to what promised to be another epic evening.