Categories > TV > Power Rangers > More Than Friends And Brothers
Disclaimer: The usual ... not mine, not getting paid, used without permission yadayada ...
Note: In response to the LiveJournal PRSW 22 Challenge; themes #04: commitment and #17: public dining. Another long one, which is why it took me so long to finish it; sorry, I hope the wait was worth it! Happy Easter/Pesach/Spring Festival of Choice to all of you, and please leave me a chocolate egg in my Easter basket/pass the feedback box on your way out as usual?
More Than Friends And Brothers
Chapter 10: Right Choice, Right Time
Jason was idly skimming the contents of the latest issue of his Teachers' Association newsletter that had arrived in his email today when an ad in the Classified section caught his eye. He read the small notice with a growing sense of excitement; it was ... well, maybe not exactly the answer to a prayer, but certainly one solution to a problem that had been plaguing him and Tommy for quite some time now. If he answered the ad ... sent in an application and was accepted, it certainly would make his life with Tommy a lot easier - but doing so would carry repercussions that were far-reaching and should not be taken lightly. He knew he was prepared to face anything that might grow out of it; but how about Tommy? They'd never really talked this through, after all. Well, aside from discussing it in very general terms, and always with the addition of 'sometime'.
Jason would bet his Black Belt that lately, 'sometime' had begun to change into 'sometime soon' for both of them, which was what he - they - wanted, and yet ...
Maybe I really should discuss it with Tommy first.
But if he did, and this window of opportunity closed - which it well might if he chose not to act quickly and decisively - there was no telling how long it would be until a similar chance came up. Was he letting his heart override his head? Maybe. And yet he couldn't help wishing ...
Deciding at last that the chance was too good to pass up and that there would be no harm in trying (and - provided he succeeded at all - he could always withdraw later if Tommy should have reservations), Jason clicked on the link at the bottom of the newsletter and went to the specified website.
*
Tommy was hastily stuffing things into his briefcase, feeling rather harried, as his last class of the week slowly filed out of the school's lab. A surreptitious glance at his watch showed that he had to hustle if he wanted to have everything ready for Jason's visit later in the afternoon. Once again he mentally cursed the fact that this year's schedule had given him the honors class on Friday afternoons. While teaching the group of truly interested kids was a joy, he got held up far too often by their eagerness ... and the choice between them and more time with his lover was never an easy one.
Done at last, Tommy all but ran to his car, his students already half-forgotten. He sent silent thanks to his Uncle John for giving him racing experience as he maneuvered his car from Reefside High to the shopping center to pick up groceries as fast as traffic (and that pesky thing named 'speed limit') allowed.
*
Feeling more than slightly stressed, Tommy barely managed to get everything done in time for Jason's arrival. Well, he still was busy in the kitchen stirring the pasta sauce, but that was a minor detail. And Jason certainly didn't mind - no, he grinned hugely and started teasing his lover about how domestic he was being. Tommy grinned wryly, choosing not to respond in kind for once, and it was very much to Jason's credit that he started helping with the last of the dinner preparations without being asked.
They ate, got caught up with the things that had happened since their last meeting, cleaned up and went directly to Tommy's bedroom. A shared shower initiated some heated lovemaking that ended in a sweaty, exhausted tangle of limbs and sheets, and they slept, only to start the weekend with another passionate interlude the next morning. Afterwards, feeling pleasantly sated yet strangely restless, Tommy stretched on the bed as he watched Jason bound out of bed energetically. He hurried through his shower and disappeared into the hallway, calling over his shoulder that Tommy had hurry up and get going if he wanted pancakes.
Tommy smiled and got up more slowly, taking a little more time with his ablutions as he savored the more leisurely pace two full days of freedom afforded him. He had no project going at Mercer Industries right now, so he didn't have to feel guilty about enjoying their two days together to the max. They'd eat breakfast, maybe spar a little, go for a swim ... they could even visit Hayley in the afternoon before they returned home for some more lovemaking and just sleeping with each other. Sunday would be more of the same until late afternoon when Jason would have to drive back to Angel Grove.
A weekend like any other. Just the way we like it. Sounds perfect.
However, as he soaped his body under the hot spray, Tommy became aware that for once the plans he'd just made didn't sound all that perfect after all. He did wish for routine, but not at the expense of most any kind of social life outside casual meetings in either Angel Grove or Reefside. When was the last time they'd spent quality time with their friends or families? Or gone out?
I ... I can't remember, Tommy realized with a start. We've been doing the same thing over and over again for months now. I drive to Jason's place every other Friday or Saturday, the other week he comes here, we eat, make love, sleep ... lather, rinse, repeat, until it's time to leave each Sunday for whoever made the trip, he mused. Damn, when and how did we slip into such a rut? We're just entering our thirties, and we're behaving worse than our parents ever did. It's almost as if we've turned into the stereotypical old married couple.
Tommy didn't exactly mind that his relationship with Jason had reached this comfortable stage, that they didn't need extra excitement, but somehow, thinking about the routine they'd fallen into, things seemed pretty ... well, boring. And that definitely was not what he wanted!
Well, I can't say that the sex is boring, though, he comforted himself as he ran a razor over his cheeks. Actually, it's anything but. He grinned, feeling a definite twitch in his groin as he recalled last night's lovemaking. Jason had been so eager, so excited ... after bringing each other to a quick, almost frantic orgasm, he'd pinned Tommy to the bed with his greater strength and proceeded to demonstrate how much he'd missed him - and just how very inventive his imagination could be. Shit, I never dreamed that Jase might get kinky!
With an effort, he wrenched his mind away from the steamy memories. If he dwelled too long on what they'd done last night (and at other times), he was likely to go downstairs still dripping wet, haul Jason back into the bedroom and show him exactly what his latest 'game' had managed to inspire. And if I do that, we'll never leave the bed all weekend! Which, for once, wasn't what he wanted. So Tommy finished in the bathroom, threw on some clothes, then went in search of his lover and breakfast.
"Mm, something smells good," he commented as he entered the sun-drenched kitchen.
"Blueberry pancakes," Jason grinned, deftly sliding another onto the already-high stack. "Almost done; why don't you get the coffee?" There was a sizzling sound as he poured the last of the batter onto the griddle, and the aroma intensified.
"Sure."
Mouth watering, Tommy fetched the carafe and poured two mugs, sliding onto his seat just as Jason turned off the stove and carried the laden platter to the table. "Dig in, Bro."
"You betcha."
The two men made short work of consuming every last morsel; being busy and single, they rarely had the leisure to enjoy a full, cooked breakfast during the week. It was just one more thing that made their weekends together so special, but Tommy found that he didn't enjoy it as much as he was used to. Since he didn't want Jason to know, he did his best to hide his unease under a stream of banter, never noticing the searching glance his lover directed at him once or twice, and Tommy eventually succeeded in convincing himself that his weird mood was just one of those 'things', caused by sun spots, work-related stress, unresolved sexual tension - Only, we resolved that nicely last night, and earlier this morning! - or maybe it just being the wrong time of the month.
Whatever. If I were a woman, I could always blame it on having PMS, or something. He grinned to himself as he drained the last of his coffee. And it's a good thing none of the girls, or Mom, can hear me even think that; they'd probably skin me alive!
Jason caught the grin. "What's so funny?"
"Nothing," Tommy said nonchalantly. "Just a weird thought I just had."
"A thought you don't want to share, I take it?"
"Later maybe."
Jason reined in his curiosity; he had his own secret to keep, so he accepted the obvious evasion. "Okay."
Breathing a silent sigh of relief at Jason's easy reply, Tommy finished his breakfast and helped clear the table. They quickly stacked the dishwasher and took care of whatever chores remained. But when they were done, he felt the strange restlessness return. At a loss whether to give voice to his feelings or continue to hide them, he was on the verge to broach the subject after all when Jason distracted him with a somewhat unusual request.
"Hey, do you mind if we drive downtown? I need to do some shopping, and I couldn't find the time during the week."
"Shopping for what?" Tommy wondered. "If it's groceries, why didn't you send me an email, or called? I could've picked your stuff up after school yesterday, when I was at the market."
Jason shrugged. "Actually, it's clothes," he said, looking at Tommy out of the corner of his eye. Would his friend find that too weird? They'd never gone shopping together before, other than for books or karate gear while they were still in High School. There was no other reaction than a raised eyebrow, so Jason continued with a rather sheepish smile. "Nothing fancy, just a couple T-shirts and socks, maybe a track suit if I can find one on sale. Oh, and a dress shirt and tie to go with my good suit. Angel Grove High is holding a fundraiser next month, and I spilled something on my old tie on Mom's birthday that the cleaners couldn't get out."
Tommy grinned, suddenly feeling better at the thought of getting away from the house for once. "Sure, why not. You got any particular place in mind?"
"Not really; back home, I'd probably end up at WalMart or something. The downtown stores are either designer outlets I can't afford, or places where Mom shops for Dad, so ..." He grimaced comically. "I'm not that old yet."
"No, you're not," Tommy agreed with a smile. "But there's this perfectly good mall in Stone Canyon ... why don't you shop there?"
"No way! I don't have time to drive over during the week, and I never go to the mall on a weekend if I can help it!"
"Oh? Why's that?"
"Too many of my students are hanging out there on Saturdays," Jason explained with a shudder. "The last time I tried, I ran into half of the senior class ... I almost had the girls tagging along, picking out my stuff for me. Good thing I got away."
"Oh boy," Tommy laughed, highly amused as he pictured the scene. "You were chicken?!?"
Jason glared at him, but his lips were twitching suspiciously. "Yeah, well, count yourself lucky that your seniors mostly aren't that much into science to want to socialize with you out of class," he retorted. "Remember doing the mall with Kim and Trini?"
"And Aisha, Kat and Tanya, too," Tommy said dryly. "I survived, why?"
"Multiply their shopping habits by a factor of five, add in the fact that my students are at least ten years younger than we are, imagine what kids think of as fashionable these days and then tell me you'd voluntarily put yourself through that."
Now it was Tommy's turn to shudder. "Er, I see your point," he admitted. "Maybe we are better off going to the shops downtown. Reefside has a pretty good selection; it'll just take longer to find everything."
Jason waved that off. "Hey, I don't mind if you don't. It'll give us something to do today, and besides - in all the time I've been coming here, I've seen very little of Reefside. I'd love it if you could show me around." He also wanted to check out a certain location, but thought he'd better keep it to himself for now. No reason to raise possibly false hopes yet. "Unless you have, um, other plans?" he asked instead, giving Tommy a playful leer.
Momentarily tempted, Tommy nevertheless shook his head. "As a matter of fact I do, but nothing that can't wait until tonight," he said lightly as he walked towards the door, then ruined the effect by drawing Jason into a close hug as he passed him. "Besides, a little anticipation won't kill us," he said, kissing the firm mouth. I hope!
"Mmmkay." Jason's tongue snaked out and licked at his lips, and Tommy groaned. "Just a little taste of what we're postponing," Jason murmured, his voice just a tad husky. "I wouldn't want you to forget ..."
Feeling slightly breathless, Tommy resisted the urge to deepen their kiss and shopping be damned. "Trust me, that's one thing I won't ever forget."
"Good. Now, let's go before I decide I don't need new things for the fundraiser after all." Still, Jason wouldn't let him go without grinding their hips together once and running one hand from Tommy's neck across his chest to his butt. He held them in place for several seconds, eyes locked, felt his pulse quicken and his cock harden. He then took a regretful step back before they reached the point of no return. "Later," he promised with a sultry look.
"Definitely," Tommy agreed, slipped in a quick grope of his own and took a deep breath as he released his lover. He hoped the drive into town would be long enough to calm his stirring hormones. "My car or yours?"
"Depends on who's driving," Jason grinned as he tucked his wallet into his hip pocket.
"Who knows the way?" Tommy dead-panned, grabbing his keys. Suddenly eager to leave, he led the way outside and smirked as Jason blew a raspberry in his direction. "Oh, stuff it. You know you hate following directions, and since it's me living here, it'd be idiotic if you tried reading a map at the wheel."
"Yeah, yeah, no need to be smug about it," Jason mock-grumbled as he rounded the vehicle and slid into the passenger seat. "Control freak."
"Yes. And you love me for it."
"Among other things. Now go, before we end up in the backseat like a couple horny teenagers!"
Tommy revved the engine. "That's different from being a couple horny late twenty-something guys how?"
"Not a lot, but I think my back is gonna thank me afterwards if I skip that particular pleasure these days," Jason said, dark eyes gleaming. "At least in this heap of junk. But if you insist ..."
"Maybe some other time," Tommy manfully ignored the insult to his trusty jeep, just sent a sly look Jason's way and drove off his property onto the road to Reefside.
Jason snorted. "Which means never. Or do your finances go up to buying a luxury car anytime soon? Because mine sure don't!"
"No, but if you're so set on doing it on the backseat of a car, we can always rent a limo."
"Yeah, right - I'd like to see how the driver puts that in his log - or do you have a reason to give him an hour or so off that won't sound completely asinine?"
"Like this conversation, you mean?" Tommy's shoulders were shaking with silent laughter.
Jason shot him an exaggeratedly disgusted look as he started to chuckle as well. It had been way too long since he and Tommy had engaged in banter like this, nonsensical or not. They usually were so intent on making up for lost time on their bi-weekly visits that they rarely found the necessary ease to just tease each other, and as much as he enjoyed sharing conversations ranging from serious discussions to X-rated phone calls, Jason had to admit he often missed the light-hearted teasing that came from everyday familiarity. He suppressed a small sigh. As long as they continued living basically separate lives, there was nothing they could do about it - which made today's exchange all the more enjoyable for its rarity. But a shopping trip was hardly the right time to open that particular can of worms, so ...
"Shut the hell up already and drive, okay?"
Laughing out loud at last, Tommy complied.
*
They arrived in downtown Reefside, parked the car near the harbor and started a leisurely tour around the shops as Tommy played tour guide. Jason was pleasantly surprised to see that the town, while smaller than Angel Grove, still hosted a sizeable number of amenities - from a small, but well-equipped general hospital to most of the well-known shopping and eating franchises. There were several museums, the local Historical Society, a community theater, a moderate multiplex and some more upscale restaurants. As such, Reefside pleasantly combined small-town living with a sufficiently varied offering of leisure activities; a development due in no small part to the population growth here and in the neighboring communities caused by the influx of employees of Anton Mercer's ever-expanding business ventures.
Most of Jason's shopping was done in between the sightseeing. The only thing he couldn't seem to find was a track suit that was both comfortable and in a price range he could afford. Finally, Jason was about to give up.
"You know what, let's just forget about it. I'll just ask Mrs. Keppel if I can borrow one of her mail order catalogues, and have it shipped."
Tommy shrugged. "If that's what you want to do, fine. But there's one more store just a couple blocks down that way-" he pointed to the left of the intersection they were approaching, "and if you can't find one there, we'll call it a day. Okay?"
Good-naturedly, Jason shrugged. "Why the hell not. Lead on, MacDuff." The afternoon was almost gone, anyway; after their hearty breakfast, they had decided to skip lunch, but Jason was definitely beginning to feel a little hungry - and not just for food. He felt a pleasant tingle in his gut as he thought of the night ahead.
Much to both men's surprise, the Reefside Emporium carried a good selection of sportswear, including a full rack of track suits on sale. Quickly selecting two, Jason thrust his other purchases at Tommy. "Hang onto this for a minute, okay? I'll just try them on, and if one fits well enough, I'll be done."
"Sure." Tommy watched Jason disappear in the changing cabin. While he waited, he wandered idly around the department, looking at the merchandise, but stopped when he came across a stand that held stacks of boxed underwear. One pack was open, showing a flash of black and burgundy. Tommy nearly purred with tactile delight as he fingered the material curiously. A quick look at the label confirmed that these particular boxer shorts were made out of incredibly soft, stone-washed silk.
Mmm. I can just see Jase wearing these; it must be nice to stroke down his back and feel silk on his ass instead of cotton.
Almost instantaneously, his imagination took over.
Better yet ... Jase sometimes doesn't dry off after showering. If he doesn't ... then put on silk shorts ... they'd cling in all the right places on damp skin!
Tommy imagined peeling black silk underwear off his lover's body with nothing but his lips and teeth, immediately felt his mouth go dry and his body tighten. He swallowed hard as he fought for control and impulsively reached for a pair in Jason's size. He gulped when the cashier rang up a hefty sum, but Tommy didn't care - in his not-unbiased opinion, the surprise would definitely be worth every penny. I can't wait to see Jase wearing the shorts ... and to get him out of 'em!
Luckily, he was finished just before Jason returned from the fitting room, one track suit folded over his arm. He hung the other back onto the rack.
"Found something?" Tommy asked casually, unobtrusively making sure that his own purchase was safely hidden within another shopping bag.
"Yeah; this one fits just right, and it's been marked down by forty percent, too. Let me just pay for it, and I'm done."
"Cool."
Jason grinned at his friend. "Yep." Sale accomplished, he shoved his wallet back into his hip pocket. His dark eyes were gleaming with promise. "I don't know about you, but shopping has given me quite an appetite." The suggestive pause before and emphasis on the last word spoke volumes.
"Ditto." The pangs of hunger Tommy was beginning to feel as well went far beyond his stomach.
"So, back to your house for dinner, or do we stop on the way for takeout? By the time we make it home, I think I could eat half a horse at least, and it wouldn't make sense to wait for a delivery guy when we'll be passing half a dozen drive-ins on the way. And to be honest, I'm not really in the mood to cook."
Tommy experienced a rush of warmth on hearing Jason refer to his house as 'home' so naturally, and it was on the tip of his tongue to agree. The sooner they went back and ate, the sooner they'd be in bed and making love, which was what they both wanted, Tommy was sure. Ever since they'd become lovers, he couldn't remember a single shared weekend when they'd gone without having sex for this long. He glanced at his watch and started. It's past six already?!? A quick mental calculation proved that almost ten hours had passed since they had woken each other in the most pleasurable way. So it was quite understandable that one part of Tommy wanted to continue in the worst way where they'd left off; not so much why his earlier restlessness and dissatisfaction with the status quo made an unexpected comeback and another portion of his mind told him to wait. Unexpectedly, that part won.
Calling himself three kinds of a fool, Tommy capitulated before this inner urging and sent Jason an apologetic look that wasn't entirely faked. "Actually ... I don't really feel like cooking either, but I'm also not in the mood for takeout. I get way too much of that during the week. Why don't we see whether we can find a place to eat here?"
Jason raised an eyebrow as they left the store. "Have you forgotten it's Saturday? We might not find a table without a reservation."
"Shouldn't be much of a problem; it's still a little early for the usual dinner crowd. Besides, it's been a while since we ate something that didn't come out of a cardboard box or we prepared ourselves, don't you think?"
Jason was about to remind Tommy of his visit to Angel Grove six weeks ago when they'd gone out for brunch at a local hotel on Sunday morning, but he could read something in the brown eyes that made him swallow the remark.
"Sure, why not," he acquiesced with a smile.
*
Forty-five minutes later, they were seated in a booth at a rustic steak house just off the Reefside marina, the table between them laden with large platters of steak, baked potatoes, salads and tall glasses of iced tea. Both men ate with gusto until their first hunger was sated. A helpful waiter removed the debris and asked whether they wanted dessert, but they declined, opting for an after-dinner coffee instead. When the steaming cups arrived, Tommy leaned back with a satisfied sigh.
"That was great."
Jason wrapped both hands around his mug, relishing the warmth. "Uh huh," he agreed companionably. He took the first sip, looking at his lover over the rim of his cup. There was still a look in Tommy's eyes he couldn't quite read, one that had been there since morning. Deciding at last he would just have to ask if Tommy wasn't coming forth with whatever it was that caused that look, Jason carefully set his coffee cup back down.
"So ... are you gonna tell me now what's been bugging you all day, or do we wait until we're home?"
Tommy nearly choked on his latte. "What do you mean?"
"Bro, you've been showing me around all morning like some kind of demented tour guide," Jason said dryly. "I've done enough sightseeing tours during my time at the Peace Conference to recognize when someone's dragging things out as much as possible. It's bad enough in places like Paris or London, but ... Reefside? No offense, it's obviously a great town to live in, but not exactly full of tourist attractions. And the shopping? I could've gotten most of my stuff within an hour, two at most. Instead we took all day because you insisted on going from one store to another until I had everything. The way I see it, you've been more or less just marking time." He smiled, showing Tommy that he wasn't angry. "So what's up with that?"
That was what he'd unconsciously been doing, Tommy realized with a guilty start. Blushing at being found out, his eyes flew to Jason's. Seeing only love and honest concern in the dark depths, Tommy managed to smile back rather embarrassedly.
"It was that obvious?"
"To someone who knows and loves you, yes." The deep voice lowered to a near-whisper as Jason answered. He wasn't ashamed to admit his feelings in public, and the booths next to theirs were still empty, but as long as they were keeping their relationship unofficial, he chose to maintain their privacy.
"Tom, I don't mind doing stuff with you, even if it's something as mundane and, well, boring as buying underwear," he smiled. "It's just ... we get to see each other seldom enough as it is, and I'd much rather spend time with you alone, y'know?"
"So do I ..."
"But?" Jason briefly touched Tommy's fingers, which were still clamped around his coffee cup. "There is a 'but' in there, isn't it?"
He knows me too well, dammit.
"Yes," Tommy admitted at last. It seemed he would have to express his rather nebulous feelings after all. Which wasn't going to be easy, as he wasn't quite clear on his reasons himself. Well, maybe trying to put it into words would help. Here goes nothing ... "Jase ... I think I'm getting tired of all this."
Puzzled, Jason tilted his head. "Tired? How? Of what?"
"Of the way things are going in our relationship," Tommy started, then hastily reached for Jason's hand when he saw him flinch. "Hey, I didn't mean that the way it sounded. It's nothing to do with us - we're fine, and I love being with you, here or back at your place. It's just ... we never seem to do anything," he fumbled.
"Seems to me we're doing plenty," Jason murmured relievedly, returning the slight squeeze around his fingers. "At least I didn't hear you complain last night or this morning," he added a little facetiously.
Tommy shook his head. "That's not it. That part of our relationship is great, and I wouldn't want to change things even if I could. But ... I feel we've fallen into a real rut lately, and it's starting to bother me. A lot."
"What do you mean, a rut?"
Tommy sighed, searching for the right words. "It's ... it's just always the same when we get together. You drive up here, or I come to Angel Grove, we eat, make love, sleep, do it all over again the next day and then again until whoever's driving has to leave." Drawing a deep breath, Tommy rambled on. "When was the last time we had other plans? I'd have to check my calendar to know, and I'm pretty certain you can't recall the last time, either. We used to have fun together going to the movies, or a concert, a sporting event, whatever. Now, we just stay at home. /Always/." He snorted. "Hell, I'm almost missing the time when we wouldn't stay at each others' homes, because camping out gave us at least something to /do/."
It lay on the tip of Jason's tongue to say that camping out had solely been Tommy's idea, but as he was too glad they'd gone beyond that particular hang-up, he bit back the comment.
"What else would you have us do, Tommy? Make out in the back of a car like we joked this morning, or take walks in the wood holding hands? I don't think that's enough for either of us."
"You're right, it's not," Tommy agreed. "But ... what I'm trying to get at is ... we've given up any kind of a ... well, a social life, I guess, in exchange for being together." That came pretty close to the mark, and Tommy felt a sense of relief at having finally identified what was bothering him. "Sometimes, I kind of miss being with other people," he added quietly. "Don't you?"
"Not really. Well, maybe now and then, but to be honest, I'd rather be alone with you than out among strangers, someplace where I can't touch or kiss you," Jason replied in a low, intense voice. "Are you saying you want to go partying or something?"
Before Tommy could answer, there was a commotion near the entrance to the restaurant. A large group of people had come in, laughing and jostling each other ... and the hostess was guiding them directly to the booths at the back where the two were sitting. "I'm sorry we don't have adjoining booths," the young woman apologized to the newcomers, "but if these gentlemen wouldn't mind moving over ...?"
Jason and Tommy shared a quick glance. Their discussion had reached a stage where privacy was essential, so ... "It's quite okay, we were about to leave anyway."
"Hey, thanks, man," one of the guests said.
"You're welcome." Quickly, they paid their bill, collected their belongings and left.
*
They dumped their purchases in Tommy's car and walked out towards the pier. It was already dark outside, the stars coming out in force on this cool spring night, but the marina was reasonably well-lit and they made their way towards the far end where a low wall invited them to sit which Jason did. Tommy, however, was too restless; he started pacing back and forth in a tight circle.
"I don't want partying," Tommy said, picking up the thread of their conversation. "That's no fun without friends. And no way am I going to a gay club or whatever!"
"Agreed. It's hardly our scene. So what do you want?"
"I dunno. Wait, I do know - I want everyday things. Like the shopping we did today. It shouldn't be a special occasion, just something we do together. Or other fun stuff like we used to in school - you know what I mean."
"Granted, but ..."
Now it was Tommy who interrupted. "No buts, Jase. Just listen. Please?"
There was no way Jason could resist the pleading look in the brown eyes. He nodded slowly. "Sure."
Rubbing the back of his neck in a gesture that was as familiar to Jason as breathing, Tommy visibly collected his thoughts, swallowed once and plunged ahead. "I've been feeling kinda restless lately about the way things are going between us. I guess it started a while ago, really ... I just didn't realize exactly why and what about until today. Bro, I ... there've been times when I missed out on doing something on my own, like seeing a movie during the week, because I thought it'd be more fun with you. Only, when we got together, we didn't do it either because we were so busy catching up and screwing our brains out that there never was time for anything else."
Jason shrugged helplessly. "I know, I'm pretty much doing the same thing. But we see each other so rarely, I want to be as close to you as I can when we do meet. Going out, doing stuff just doesn't compare to being with you - and I don't care whether it's in or out of bed!"
"Well, yeah. But I think I'm starting to resent having to make that choice time and again. Which is scary in and of itself - if worse comes to worst, it could damage what we have - and the last thing I want is resentment or regret about our relationship. Dammit, Jase, we shouldn't have to choose between making love or having a life! I want /both/!"
Jason gave him a steady look, his voice calm and controlled even though inwardly he was pumping his fist. "So do I, but the way things are, we can't have both."
Tommy drew a deep breath. "Maybe it's time we changed things so we can then."
Oh my God, does he know? Naw - he can't. But I think he won't complain if I tell him about the plans I've made. Hiding his sudden excitement, Jason looked at his lover. "In what way?"
It was so obvious, Tommy couldn't believe it had taken them so long to see. "Let's move in together," he said simply, coming to stand right in front of Jason. "It's what we talked about, isn't it?"
The perfect solution, and the fulfillment of very hope and dream Jason had ever had. And that Tommy was suggesting it made it all the sweeter. It was Jason's turn to swallow. "Yes. But you do realize what that involves, right?"
"Uh huh. One, or maybe even both of us will have to relocate. Whether it's here in Reefside or in Angel Grove - or someplace else entirely - I don't care. I want to live with you, and I'm willing to do whatever it takes."
"Even giving up your house? Your research with Hayley, your job with Mercer?"
"If that's what it takes, yes."
Jason regarded his best friend steadily. "We'd also have to come out; tell our friends and families why we're doing it - that we are more than just friends."
"I know," Tommy replied quietly, demonstrating his complete commitment in two short words. "I love you, and I'm willing. So - what do you say?"
Slowly, Jason rose from his perch on the low wall. Tommy expected him to come into his arms, but much to his surprise Jason turned away and stared out across the natural bay that formed Reefside's harbor. A few fishing boats were getting ready to go out for some night fishing, the sounds of their engines and the crews' voices wafting towards them over the dark water. He watched them, remaining silent for several long moments, and when he finally spoke it wasn't what Tommy expected, or even wanted to hear.
"Those lights across the bay ... what are they?"
"Huh?"
Jason pointed. "There, in that valley - is that another town? You probably couldn't see anything if the night were less clear." Indeed, if one looked closely, a few lights shone much brighter and more yellowish than the stars in the sky. They seemed obviously man-made. However, Tommy couldn't care less about that right now - he wanted to hear Jason's opinion on his proposal, not discuss geography!
"I guess," he said, a hint of impatience in his voice. "You still haven't given me an answer."
Jason ignored him. "I think it might be Brookhill. Am I right?" Brookhill was a neighboring town from where Anton Mercer recruited quite a number of his employees; with cheaper plots and more room than Reefside, it had been a convenient location to build company-funded housing.
"Could be," Tommy murmured, feeling a crushing sensation wash over him. He'd expected Jason to jump at the chance of a life together, or at least give it serious consideration; this casual dismissal was more than disappointing. His shoulders slumped as he tried to brace himself for the rejection that would surely follow soon.
"Can't be more than twenty-five or thirty miles from Reefside," Jason went on blithely, still staring across the water. "Are the roads open in winter? If not, it might be tricky to drive in case of snow. Although I think Mercer would see to it that they're cleared; after all, he'll want his work force in place on time each day."
"Whatever."
Jason hid a smile as he snuck a glance at his lover. There was so much listlessness and disappointment in that one word, it would be heart-wrenching if he didn't have a remedy at hand. True to form, Tommy was assuming the worst once more, not even considering that he might have a reason for his seeming indifference. Well, he was about to get a surprise.
"Don't you get a lot of students at Reefside High from the middle school there?"
"Yeah." Tommy's reply was curt as he turned away, preparing to return to his car. He didn't want to wait until Jason got around to breaking his heart completely. Just say it. Do it in one strike, not piece by piece! But Jason's indecently cheerful voice held him back.
"The reason I'm asking is ... the Brookside school district has decided to open up their own high school this summer. The student body certainly is large enough now, and they expect more growth in the next few years." Tommy showed no reaction beyond a disinterested shrug and was pointedly not looking him, hurt in every line of his body, so Jason decided to take him out of his misery.
"The position of Head of Athletics is still open; I saw an ad in the TA's newsletter last month and sent in a job application. I have an interview lined up two weeks from now."
It took Tommy several seconds until the information Jason had just given him filtered into his brain. When it finally did, he whirled around to stare wide-eyed at his best friend.
"Wh-what?"
Jason smiled gently, his eyes warm with love. "If I get the job, it would be an easy commute from your house," he murmured softly. "If you really think you can put up with me 24/7, that is."
Suddenly dizzy with relief and excitement, Tommy took a swaying step forward. "Oh God, Jase ...!" He was caught safely in strong arms and buried his face in the crook of Jason's neck.
"It's by no means certain I'll get the job," Jason warned, his breath tickling moistly against Tommy's ear. "I'm still fairly young, but as it's a new school ... I think I may have a realistic chance. And it would be the perfect solution, don't you think?"
"Perfect, yeah," Tommy breathed, wrapping his lover into a crushing hug. "Shit, Jase, I thought-"
"-the worst, as usual," Jason chuckled, hugging back. "Do you really think I'd refuse when you were offering me the one thing I've wanted ever since we got together?"
"Yes. No. I don't know," Tommy confessed, blushing with chagrin at having jumped to the wrong conclusion ... and growing giddy with delight. "Aw, man!"
"Exactly!"
They both laughed, midnight-dark eyes meeting sparkling brown ones, and as one leaned forward until their lips met. The kiss started softly, but soon gained in intensity as their emotions surged.
Tommy didn't think at all; he just reveled in new hope and a sense of elation he hadn't felt since the first time they made love. If things fell the way they wanted, soon they would no longer have to hide the fact that they were a couple in all ways - and for all his reservations and fears in the past months, he could hardly wait! The time was right; it was the right choice to make.
For Jason, it was yet another step towards a full union - not only had they just made a further commitment to each other by agreeing to make their relationship official, but they were also for the first time sharing a kiss in public. As gestures of intimacy went, it wasn't exactly earth-shattering, but still a long way from the secrecy they'd observed until now. He was content with the choice - it felt /right/.
All things combined, it was a strong aphrodisiac, and Jason felt his body tighten. A soft moan from Tommy directly into his mouth and a nudge from slim hips against his own showed that his feelings were being fully reciprocated. There was a hardness to match his own pressing against his belt. Jason sighed happily and moved closer against Tommy, not caring whether a stranger might see.
Suddenly they were interrupted by a shout.
"Hey, guys! Get a room!"
Startled, they broke apart and looked over their shoulders. The shout had come from the water - one of the fishing boats was trawling past them, and a sailor was grinning broadly at them from the stern. He waved, then casually slung an arm around a second fisherman who'd come up beside him. They seemed comfortable in the loose embrace.
Slightly breathless from their intense kiss and his growing arousal, Jason nevertheless freed one arm from Tommy's waist and waved back, then grinned at his lover.
"What a great idea."
"Downright excellent," Tommy agreed, fighting not to squirm in his suddenly too-tight pants. "Why don't we?"
"I thought you'd never ask," Jason whispered huskily.
Tommy kissed him again, briefly but thoroughly. "So let's get home - remember, I said this morning I have plans for tonight." He gave a suggestive wink.
Reluctantly, Jason let go completely and took Tommy's hand, giving it a tug in the direction of the black jeep. "So do I," he replied with a wicked leer.
Butterflies were stirring in Tommy's stomach as he followed willingly, growing increasingly eager to get Jason home ... and into his bed. It might be a little early for a celebration, as it was by no means certain that Jason would get the job in Brookhill; but if he didn't, they'd just start looking for another solution that suited them both. And meanwhile ... surely there was nothing wrong with anticipating the true party, was there?
"Anything I might be interested in?" he asked casually as he unlocked his car.
"Of course," Jason answered smoothly, climbing in. He was buckling up when he noticed Tommy's questioningly-raised eyebrow. "It's something fairly major, though," he warned.
Tommy's imagination soared into overdrive as he drove away from the marina. "Oh? Like what?" he breathed, his mouth getting dry with suspense. With Jason, 'something major' could involve anything from chocolate sauce to light bondage, and he couldn't wait to find out.
The angelic smile should have warned him. So should Jason's deliberately-innocent voice. But in his current euphoric state, Tommy misread the signs. Only his superb reflexes saved them from crashing with sheer amused outrage when Jason finally answered with fluttering eyelashes and a limp-wristed wave.
"Why, how to redecorate your house. What did you think?"
To Be Continued ...
Note: In response to the LiveJournal PRSW 22 Challenge; themes #04: commitment and #17: public dining. Another long one, which is why it took me so long to finish it; sorry, I hope the wait was worth it! Happy Easter/Pesach/Spring Festival of Choice to all of you, and please leave me a chocolate egg in my Easter basket/pass the feedback box on your way out as usual?
More Than Friends And Brothers
Chapter 10: Right Choice, Right Time
Jason was idly skimming the contents of the latest issue of his Teachers' Association newsletter that had arrived in his email today when an ad in the Classified section caught his eye. He read the small notice with a growing sense of excitement; it was ... well, maybe not exactly the answer to a prayer, but certainly one solution to a problem that had been plaguing him and Tommy for quite some time now. If he answered the ad ... sent in an application and was accepted, it certainly would make his life with Tommy a lot easier - but doing so would carry repercussions that were far-reaching and should not be taken lightly. He knew he was prepared to face anything that might grow out of it; but how about Tommy? They'd never really talked this through, after all. Well, aside from discussing it in very general terms, and always with the addition of 'sometime'.
Jason would bet his Black Belt that lately, 'sometime' had begun to change into 'sometime soon' for both of them, which was what he - they - wanted, and yet ...
Maybe I really should discuss it with Tommy first.
But if he did, and this window of opportunity closed - which it well might if he chose not to act quickly and decisively - there was no telling how long it would be until a similar chance came up. Was he letting his heart override his head? Maybe. And yet he couldn't help wishing ...
Deciding at last that the chance was too good to pass up and that there would be no harm in trying (and - provided he succeeded at all - he could always withdraw later if Tommy should have reservations), Jason clicked on the link at the bottom of the newsletter and went to the specified website.
*
Tommy was hastily stuffing things into his briefcase, feeling rather harried, as his last class of the week slowly filed out of the school's lab. A surreptitious glance at his watch showed that he had to hustle if he wanted to have everything ready for Jason's visit later in the afternoon. Once again he mentally cursed the fact that this year's schedule had given him the honors class on Friday afternoons. While teaching the group of truly interested kids was a joy, he got held up far too often by their eagerness ... and the choice between them and more time with his lover was never an easy one.
Done at last, Tommy all but ran to his car, his students already half-forgotten. He sent silent thanks to his Uncle John for giving him racing experience as he maneuvered his car from Reefside High to the shopping center to pick up groceries as fast as traffic (and that pesky thing named 'speed limit') allowed.
*
Feeling more than slightly stressed, Tommy barely managed to get everything done in time for Jason's arrival. Well, he still was busy in the kitchen stirring the pasta sauce, but that was a minor detail. And Jason certainly didn't mind - no, he grinned hugely and started teasing his lover about how domestic he was being. Tommy grinned wryly, choosing not to respond in kind for once, and it was very much to Jason's credit that he started helping with the last of the dinner preparations without being asked.
They ate, got caught up with the things that had happened since their last meeting, cleaned up and went directly to Tommy's bedroom. A shared shower initiated some heated lovemaking that ended in a sweaty, exhausted tangle of limbs and sheets, and they slept, only to start the weekend with another passionate interlude the next morning. Afterwards, feeling pleasantly sated yet strangely restless, Tommy stretched on the bed as he watched Jason bound out of bed energetically. He hurried through his shower and disappeared into the hallway, calling over his shoulder that Tommy had hurry up and get going if he wanted pancakes.
Tommy smiled and got up more slowly, taking a little more time with his ablutions as he savored the more leisurely pace two full days of freedom afforded him. He had no project going at Mercer Industries right now, so he didn't have to feel guilty about enjoying their two days together to the max. They'd eat breakfast, maybe spar a little, go for a swim ... they could even visit Hayley in the afternoon before they returned home for some more lovemaking and just sleeping with each other. Sunday would be more of the same until late afternoon when Jason would have to drive back to Angel Grove.
A weekend like any other. Just the way we like it. Sounds perfect.
However, as he soaped his body under the hot spray, Tommy became aware that for once the plans he'd just made didn't sound all that perfect after all. He did wish for routine, but not at the expense of most any kind of social life outside casual meetings in either Angel Grove or Reefside. When was the last time they'd spent quality time with their friends or families? Or gone out?
I ... I can't remember, Tommy realized with a start. We've been doing the same thing over and over again for months now. I drive to Jason's place every other Friday or Saturday, the other week he comes here, we eat, make love, sleep ... lather, rinse, repeat, until it's time to leave each Sunday for whoever made the trip, he mused. Damn, when and how did we slip into such a rut? We're just entering our thirties, and we're behaving worse than our parents ever did. It's almost as if we've turned into the stereotypical old married couple.
Tommy didn't exactly mind that his relationship with Jason had reached this comfortable stage, that they didn't need extra excitement, but somehow, thinking about the routine they'd fallen into, things seemed pretty ... well, boring. And that definitely was not what he wanted!
Well, I can't say that the sex is boring, though, he comforted himself as he ran a razor over his cheeks. Actually, it's anything but. He grinned, feeling a definite twitch in his groin as he recalled last night's lovemaking. Jason had been so eager, so excited ... after bringing each other to a quick, almost frantic orgasm, he'd pinned Tommy to the bed with his greater strength and proceeded to demonstrate how much he'd missed him - and just how very inventive his imagination could be. Shit, I never dreamed that Jase might get kinky!
With an effort, he wrenched his mind away from the steamy memories. If he dwelled too long on what they'd done last night (and at other times), he was likely to go downstairs still dripping wet, haul Jason back into the bedroom and show him exactly what his latest 'game' had managed to inspire. And if I do that, we'll never leave the bed all weekend! Which, for once, wasn't what he wanted. So Tommy finished in the bathroom, threw on some clothes, then went in search of his lover and breakfast.
"Mm, something smells good," he commented as he entered the sun-drenched kitchen.
"Blueberry pancakes," Jason grinned, deftly sliding another onto the already-high stack. "Almost done; why don't you get the coffee?" There was a sizzling sound as he poured the last of the batter onto the griddle, and the aroma intensified.
"Sure."
Mouth watering, Tommy fetched the carafe and poured two mugs, sliding onto his seat just as Jason turned off the stove and carried the laden platter to the table. "Dig in, Bro."
"You betcha."
The two men made short work of consuming every last morsel; being busy and single, they rarely had the leisure to enjoy a full, cooked breakfast during the week. It was just one more thing that made their weekends together so special, but Tommy found that he didn't enjoy it as much as he was used to. Since he didn't want Jason to know, he did his best to hide his unease under a stream of banter, never noticing the searching glance his lover directed at him once or twice, and Tommy eventually succeeded in convincing himself that his weird mood was just one of those 'things', caused by sun spots, work-related stress, unresolved sexual tension - Only, we resolved that nicely last night, and earlier this morning! - or maybe it just being the wrong time of the month.
Whatever. If I were a woman, I could always blame it on having PMS, or something. He grinned to himself as he drained the last of his coffee. And it's a good thing none of the girls, or Mom, can hear me even think that; they'd probably skin me alive!
Jason caught the grin. "What's so funny?"
"Nothing," Tommy said nonchalantly. "Just a weird thought I just had."
"A thought you don't want to share, I take it?"
"Later maybe."
Jason reined in his curiosity; he had his own secret to keep, so he accepted the obvious evasion. "Okay."
Breathing a silent sigh of relief at Jason's easy reply, Tommy finished his breakfast and helped clear the table. They quickly stacked the dishwasher and took care of whatever chores remained. But when they were done, he felt the strange restlessness return. At a loss whether to give voice to his feelings or continue to hide them, he was on the verge to broach the subject after all when Jason distracted him with a somewhat unusual request.
"Hey, do you mind if we drive downtown? I need to do some shopping, and I couldn't find the time during the week."
"Shopping for what?" Tommy wondered. "If it's groceries, why didn't you send me an email, or called? I could've picked your stuff up after school yesterday, when I was at the market."
Jason shrugged. "Actually, it's clothes," he said, looking at Tommy out of the corner of his eye. Would his friend find that too weird? They'd never gone shopping together before, other than for books or karate gear while they were still in High School. There was no other reaction than a raised eyebrow, so Jason continued with a rather sheepish smile. "Nothing fancy, just a couple T-shirts and socks, maybe a track suit if I can find one on sale. Oh, and a dress shirt and tie to go with my good suit. Angel Grove High is holding a fundraiser next month, and I spilled something on my old tie on Mom's birthday that the cleaners couldn't get out."
Tommy grinned, suddenly feeling better at the thought of getting away from the house for once. "Sure, why not. You got any particular place in mind?"
"Not really; back home, I'd probably end up at WalMart or something. The downtown stores are either designer outlets I can't afford, or places where Mom shops for Dad, so ..." He grimaced comically. "I'm not that old yet."
"No, you're not," Tommy agreed with a smile. "But there's this perfectly good mall in Stone Canyon ... why don't you shop there?"
"No way! I don't have time to drive over during the week, and I never go to the mall on a weekend if I can help it!"
"Oh? Why's that?"
"Too many of my students are hanging out there on Saturdays," Jason explained with a shudder. "The last time I tried, I ran into half of the senior class ... I almost had the girls tagging along, picking out my stuff for me. Good thing I got away."
"Oh boy," Tommy laughed, highly amused as he pictured the scene. "You were chicken?!?"
Jason glared at him, but his lips were twitching suspiciously. "Yeah, well, count yourself lucky that your seniors mostly aren't that much into science to want to socialize with you out of class," he retorted. "Remember doing the mall with Kim and Trini?"
"And Aisha, Kat and Tanya, too," Tommy said dryly. "I survived, why?"
"Multiply their shopping habits by a factor of five, add in the fact that my students are at least ten years younger than we are, imagine what kids think of as fashionable these days and then tell me you'd voluntarily put yourself through that."
Now it was Tommy's turn to shudder. "Er, I see your point," he admitted. "Maybe we are better off going to the shops downtown. Reefside has a pretty good selection; it'll just take longer to find everything."
Jason waved that off. "Hey, I don't mind if you don't. It'll give us something to do today, and besides - in all the time I've been coming here, I've seen very little of Reefside. I'd love it if you could show me around." He also wanted to check out a certain location, but thought he'd better keep it to himself for now. No reason to raise possibly false hopes yet. "Unless you have, um, other plans?" he asked instead, giving Tommy a playful leer.
Momentarily tempted, Tommy nevertheless shook his head. "As a matter of fact I do, but nothing that can't wait until tonight," he said lightly as he walked towards the door, then ruined the effect by drawing Jason into a close hug as he passed him. "Besides, a little anticipation won't kill us," he said, kissing the firm mouth. I hope!
"Mmmkay." Jason's tongue snaked out and licked at his lips, and Tommy groaned. "Just a little taste of what we're postponing," Jason murmured, his voice just a tad husky. "I wouldn't want you to forget ..."
Feeling slightly breathless, Tommy resisted the urge to deepen their kiss and shopping be damned. "Trust me, that's one thing I won't ever forget."
"Good. Now, let's go before I decide I don't need new things for the fundraiser after all." Still, Jason wouldn't let him go without grinding their hips together once and running one hand from Tommy's neck across his chest to his butt. He held them in place for several seconds, eyes locked, felt his pulse quicken and his cock harden. He then took a regretful step back before they reached the point of no return. "Later," he promised with a sultry look.
"Definitely," Tommy agreed, slipped in a quick grope of his own and took a deep breath as he released his lover. He hoped the drive into town would be long enough to calm his stirring hormones. "My car or yours?"
"Depends on who's driving," Jason grinned as he tucked his wallet into his hip pocket.
"Who knows the way?" Tommy dead-panned, grabbing his keys. Suddenly eager to leave, he led the way outside and smirked as Jason blew a raspberry in his direction. "Oh, stuff it. You know you hate following directions, and since it's me living here, it'd be idiotic if you tried reading a map at the wheel."
"Yeah, yeah, no need to be smug about it," Jason mock-grumbled as he rounded the vehicle and slid into the passenger seat. "Control freak."
"Yes. And you love me for it."
"Among other things. Now go, before we end up in the backseat like a couple horny teenagers!"
Tommy revved the engine. "That's different from being a couple horny late twenty-something guys how?"
"Not a lot, but I think my back is gonna thank me afterwards if I skip that particular pleasure these days," Jason said, dark eyes gleaming. "At least in this heap of junk. But if you insist ..."
"Maybe some other time," Tommy manfully ignored the insult to his trusty jeep, just sent a sly look Jason's way and drove off his property onto the road to Reefside.
Jason snorted. "Which means never. Or do your finances go up to buying a luxury car anytime soon? Because mine sure don't!"
"No, but if you're so set on doing it on the backseat of a car, we can always rent a limo."
"Yeah, right - I'd like to see how the driver puts that in his log - or do you have a reason to give him an hour or so off that won't sound completely asinine?"
"Like this conversation, you mean?" Tommy's shoulders were shaking with silent laughter.
Jason shot him an exaggeratedly disgusted look as he started to chuckle as well. It had been way too long since he and Tommy had engaged in banter like this, nonsensical or not. They usually were so intent on making up for lost time on their bi-weekly visits that they rarely found the necessary ease to just tease each other, and as much as he enjoyed sharing conversations ranging from serious discussions to X-rated phone calls, Jason had to admit he often missed the light-hearted teasing that came from everyday familiarity. He suppressed a small sigh. As long as they continued living basically separate lives, there was nothing they could do about it - which made today's exchange all the more enjoyable for its rarity. But a shopping trip was hardly the right time to open that particular can of worms, so ...
"Shut the hell up already and drive, okay?"
Laughing out loud at last, Tommy complied.
*
They arrived in downtown Reefside, parked the car near the harbor and started a leisurely tour around the shops as Tommy played tour guide. Jason was pleasantly surprised to see that the town, while smaller than Angel Grove, still hosted a sizeable number of amenities - from a small, but well-equipped general hospital to most of the well-known shopping and eating franchises. There were several museums, the local Historical Society, a community theater, a moderate multiplex and some more upscale restaurants. As such, Reefside pleasantly combined small-town living with a sufficiently varied offering of leisure activities; a development due in no small part to the population growth here and in the neighboring communities caused by the influx of employees of Anton Mercer's ever-expanding business ventures.
Most of Jason's shopping was done in between the sightseeing. The only thing he couldn't seem to find was a track suit that was both comfortable and in a price range he could afford. Finally, Jason was about to give up.
"You know what, let's just forget about it. I'll just ask Mrs. Keppel if I can borrow one of her mail order catalogues, and have it shipped."
Tommy shrugged. "If that's what you want to do, fine. But there's one more store just a couple blocks down that way-" he pointed to the left of the intersection they were approaching, "and if you can't find one there, we'll call it a day. Okay?"
Good-naturedly, Jason shrugged. "Why the hell not. Lead on, MacDuff." The afternoon was almost gone, anyway; after their hearty breakfast, they had decided to skip lunch, but Jason was definitely beginning to feel a little hungry - and not just for food. He felt a pleasant tingle in his gut as he thought of the night ahead.
Much to both men's surprise, the Reefside Emporium carried a good selection of sportswear, including a full rack of track suits on sale. Quickly selecting two, Jason thrust his other purchases at Tommy. "Hang onto this for a minute, okay? I'll just try them on, and if one fits well enough, I'll be done."
"Sure." Tommy watched Jason disappear in the changing cabin. While he waited, he wandered idly around the department, looking at the merchandise, but stopped when he came across a stand that held stacks of boxed underwear. One pack was open, showing a flash of black and burgundy. Tommy nearly purred with tactile delight as he fingered the material curiously. A quick look at the label confirmed that these particular boxer shorts were made out of incredibly soft, stone-washed silk.
Mmm. I can just see Jase wearing these; it must be nice to stroke down his back and feel silk on his ass instead of cotton.
Almost instantaneously, his imagination took over.
Better yet ... Jase sometimes doesn't dry off after showering. If he doesn't ... then put on silk shorts ... they'd cling in all the right places on damp skin!
Tommy imagined peeling black silk underwear off his lover's body with nothing but his lips and teeth, immediately felt his mouth go dry and his body tighten. He swallowed hard as he fought for control and impulsively reached for a pair in Jason's size. He gulped when the cashier rang up a hefty sum, but Tommy didn't care - in his not-unbiased opinion, the surprise would definitely be worth every penny. I can't wait to see Jase wearing the shorts ... and to get him out of 'em!
Luckily, he was finished just before Jason returned from the fitting room, one track suit folded over his arm. He hung the other back onto the rack.
"Found something?" Tommy asked casually, unobtrusively making sure that his own purchase was safely hidden within another shopping bag.
"Yeah; this one fits just right, and it's been marked down by forty percent, too. Let me just pay for it, and I'm done."
"Cool."
Jason grinned at his friend. "Yep." Sale accomplished, he shoved his wallet back into his hip pocket. His dark eyes were gleaming with promise. "I don't know about you, but shopping has given me quite an appetite." The suggestive pause before and emphasis on the last word spoke volumes.
"Ditto." The pangs of hunger Tommy was beginning to feel as well went far beyond his stomach.
"So, back to your house for dinner, or do we stop on the way for takeout? By the time we make it home, I think I could eat half a horse at least, and it wouldn't make sense to wait for a delivery guy when we'll be passing half a dozen drive-ins on the way. And to be honest, I'm not really in the mood to cook."
Tommy experienced a rush of warmth on hearing Jason refer to his house as 'home' so naturally, and it was on the tip of his tongue to agree. The sooner they went back and ate, the sooner they'd be in bed and making love, which was what they both wanted, Tommy was sure. Ever since they'd become lovers, he couldn't remember a single shared weekend when they'd gone without having sex for this long. He glanced at his watch and started. It's past six already?!? A quick mental calculation proved that almost ten hours had passed since they had woken each other in the most pleasurable way. So it was quite understandable that one part of Tommy wanted to continue in the worst way where they'd left off; not so much why his earlier restlessness and dissatisfaction with the status quo made an unexpected comeback and another portion of his mind told him to wait. Unexpectedly, that part won.
Calling himself three kinds of a fool, Tommy capitulated before this inner urging and sent Jason an apologetic look that wasn't entirely faked. "Actually ... I don't really feel like cooking either, but I'm also not in the mood for takeout. I get way too much of that during the week. Why don't we see whether we can find a place to eat here?"
Jason raised an eyebrow as they left the store. "Have you forgotten it's Saturday? We might not find a table without a reservation."
"Shouldn't be much of a problem; it's still a little early for the usual dinner crowd. Besides, it's been a while since we ate something that didn't come out of a cardboard box or we prepared ourselves, don't you think?"
Jason was about to remind Tommy of his visit to Angel Grove six weeks ago when they'd gone out for brunch at a local hotel on Sunday morning, but he could read something in the brown eyes that made him swallow the remark.
"Sure, why not," he acquiesced with a smile.
*
Forty-five minutes later, they were seated in a booth at a rustic steak house just off the Reefside marina, the table between them laden with large platters of steak, baked potatoes, salads and tall glasses of iced tea. Both men ate with gusto until their first hunger was sated. A helpful waiter removed the debris and asked whether they wanted dessert, but they declined, opting for an after-dinner coffee instead. When the steaming cups arrived, Tommy leaned back with a satisfied sigh.
"That was great."
Jason wrapped both hands around his mug, relishing the warmth. "Uh huh," he agreed companionably. He took the first sip, looking at his lover over the rim of his cup. There was still a look in Tommy's eyes he couldn't quite read, one that had been there since morning. Deciding at last he would just have to ask if Tommy wasn't coming forth with whatever it was that caused that look, Jason carefully set his coffee cup back down.
"So ... are you gonna tell me now what's been bugging you all day, or do we wait until we're home?"
Tommy nearly choked on his latte. "What do you mean?"
"Bro, you've been showing me around all morning like some kind of demented tour guide," Jason said dryly. "I've done enough sightseeing tours during my time at the Peace Conference to recognize when someone's dragging things out as much as possible. It's bad enough in places like Paris or London, but ... Reefside? No offense, it's obviously a great town to live in, but not exactly full of tourist attractions. And the shopping? I could've gotten most of my stuff within an hour, two at most. Instead we took all day because you insisted on going from one store to another until I had everything. The way I see it, you've been more or less just marking time." He smiled, showing Tommy that he wasn't angry. "So what's up with that?"
That was what he'd unconsciously been doing, Tommy realized with a guilty start. Blushing at being found out, his eyes flew to Jason's. Seeing only love and honest concern in the dark depths, Tommy managed to smile back rather embarrassedly.
"It was that obvious?"
"To someone who knows and loves you, yes." The deep voice lowered to a near-whisper as Jason answered. He wasn't ashamed to admit his feelings in public, and the booths next to theirs were still empty, but as long as they were keeping their relationship unofficial, he chose to maintain their privacy.
"Tom, I don't mind doing stuff with you, even if it's something as mundane and, well, boring as buying underwear," he smiled. "It's just ... we get to see each other seldom enough as it is, and I'd much rather spend time with you alone, y'know?"
"So do I ..."
"But?" Jason briefly touched Tommy's fingers, which were still clamped around his coffee cup. "There is a 'but' in there, isn't it?"
He knows me too well, dammit.
"Yes," Tommy admitted at last. It seemed he would have to express his rather nebulous feelings after all. Which wasn't going to be easy, as he wasn't quite clear on his reasons himself. Well, maybe trying to put it into words would help. Here goes nothing ... "Jase ... I think I'm getting tired of all this."
Puzzled, Jason tilted his head. "Tired? How? Of what?"
"Of the way things are going in our relationship," Tommy started, then hastily reached for Jason's hand when he saw him flinch. "Hey, I didn't mean that the way it sounded. It's nothing to do with us - we're fine, and I love being with you, here or back at your place. It's just ... we never seem to do anything," he fumbled.
"Seems to me we're doing plenty," Jason murmured relievedly, returning the slight squeeze around his fingers. "At least I didn't hear you complain last night or this morning," he added a little facetiously.
Tommy shook his head. "That's not it. That part of our relationship is great, and I wouldn't want to change things even if I could. But ... I feel we've fallen into a real rut lately, and it's starting to bother me. A lot."
"What do you mean, a rut?"
Tommy sighed, searching for the right words. "It's ... it's just always the same when we get together. You drive up here, or I come to Angel Grove, we eat, make love, sleep, do it all over again the next day and then again until whoever's driving has to leave." Drawing a deep breath, Tommy rambled on. "When was the last time we had other plans? I'd have to check my calendar to know, and I'm pretty certain you can't recall the last time, either. We used to have fun together going to the movies, or a concert, a sporting event, whatever. Now, we just stay at home. /Always/." He snorted. "Hell, I'm almost missing the time when we wouldn't stay at each others' homes, because camping out gave us at least something to /do/."
It lay on the tip of Jason's tongue to say that camping out had solely been Tommy's idea, but as he was too glad they'd gone beyond that particular hang-up, he bit back the comment.
"What else would you have us do, Tommy? Make out in the back of a car like we joked this morning, or take walks in the wood holding hands? I don't think that's enough for either of us."
"You're right, it's not," Tommy agreed. "But ... what I'm trying to get at is ... we've given up any kind of a ... well, a social life, I guess, in exchange for being together." That came pretty close to the mark, and Tommy felt a sense of relief at having finally identified what was bothering him. "Sometimes, I kind of miss being with other people," he added quietly. "Don't you?"
"Not really. Well, maybe now and then, but to be honest, I'd rather be alone with you than out among strangers, someplace where I can't touch or kiss you," Jason replied in a low, intense voice. "Are you saying you want to go partying or something?"
Before Tommy could answer, there was a commotion near the entrance to the restaurant. A large group of people had come in, laughing and jostling each other ... and the hostess was guiding them directly to the booths at the back where the two were sitting. "I'm sorry we don't have adjoining booths," the young woman apologized to the newcomers, "but if these gentlemen wouldn't mind moving over ...?"
Jason and Tommy shared a quick glance. Their discussion had reached a stage where privacy was essential, so ... "It's quite okay, we were about to leave anyway."
"Hey, thanks, man," one of the guests said.
"You're welcome." Quickly, they paid their bill, collected their belongings and left.
*
They dumped their purchases in Tommy's car and walked out towards the pier. It was already dark outside, the stars coming out in force on this cool spring night, but the marina was reasonably well-lit and they made their way towards the far end where a low wall invited them to sit which Jason did. Tommy, however, was too restless; he started pacing back and forth in a tight circle.
"I don't want partying," Tommy said, picking up the thread of their conversation. "That's no fun without friends. And no way am I going to a gay club or whatever!"
"Agreed. It's hardly our scene. So what do you want?"
"I dunno. Wait, I do know - I want everyday things. Like the shopping we did today. It shouldn't be a special occasion, just something we do together. Or other fun stuff like we used to in school - you know what I mean."
"Granted, but ..."
Now it was Tommy who interrupted. "No buts, Jase. Just listen. Please?"
There was no way Jason could resist the pleading look in the brown eyes. He nodded slowly. "Sure."
Rubbing the back of his neck in a gesture that was as familiar to Jason as breathing, Tommy visibly collected his thoughts, swallowed once and plunged ahead. "I've been feeling kinda restless lately about the way things are going between us. I guess it started a while ago, really ... I just didn't realize exactly why and what about until today. Bro, I ... there've been times when I missed out on doing something on my own, like seeing a movie during the week, because I thought it'd be more fun with you. Only, when we got together, we didn't do it either because we were so busy catching up and screwing our brains out that there never was time for anything else."
Jason shrugged helplessly. "I know, I'm pretty much doing the same thing. But we see each other so rarely, I want to be as close to you as I can when we do meet. Going out, doing stuff just doesn't compare to being with you - and I don't care whether it's in or out of bed!"
"Well, yeah. But I think I'm starting to resent having to make that choice time and again. Which is scary in and of itself - if worse comes to worst, it could damage what we have - and the last thing I want is resentment or regret about our relationship. Dammit, Jase, we shouldn't have to choose between making love or having a life! I want /both/!"
Jason gave him a steady look, his voice calm and controlled even though inwardly he was pumping his fist. "So do I, but the way things are, we can't have both."
Tommy drew a deep breath. "Maybe it's time we changed things so we can then."
Oh my God, does he know? Naw - he can't. But I think he won't complain if I tell him about the plans I've made. Hiding his sudden excitement, Jason looked at his lover. "In what way?"
It was so obvious, Tommy couldn't believe it had taken them so long to see. "Let's move in together," he said simply, coming to stand right in front of Jason. "It's what we talked about, isn't it?"
The perfect solution, and the fulfillment of very hope and dream Jason had ever had. And that Tommy was suggesting it made it all the sweeter. It was Jason's turn to swallow. "Yes. But you do realize what that involves, right?"
"Uh huh. One, or maybe even both of us will have to relocate. Whether it's here in Reefside or in Angel Grove - or someplace else entirely - I don't care. I want to live with you, and I'm willing to do whatever it takes."
"Even giving up your house? Your research with Hayley, your job with Mercer?"
"If that's what it takes, yes."
Jason regarded his best friend steadily. "We'd also have to come out; tell our friends and families why we're doing it - that we are more than just friends."
"I know," Tommy replied quietly, demonstrating his complete commitment in two short words. "I love you, and I'm willing. So - what do you say?"
Slowly, Jason rose from his perch on the low wall. Tommy expected him to come into his arms, but much to his surprise Jason turned away and stared out across the natural bay that formed Reefside's harbor. A few fishing boats were getting ready to go out for some night fishing, the sounds of their engines and the crews' voices wafting towards them over the dark water. He watched them, remaining silent for several long moments, and when he finally spoke it wasn't what Tommy expected, or even wanted to hear.
"Those lights across the bay ... what are they?"
"Huh?"
Jason pointed. "There, in that valley - is that another town? You probably couldn't see anything if the night were less clear." Indeed, if one looked closely, a few lights shone much brighter and more yellowish than the stars in the sky. They seemed obviously man-made. However, Tommy couldn't care less about that right now - he wanted to hear Jason's opinion on his proposal, not discuss geography!
"I guess," he said, a hint of impatience in his voice. "You still haven't given me an answer."
Jason ignored him. "I think it might be Brookhill. Am I right?" Brookhill was a neighboring town from where Anton Mercer recruited quite a number of his employees; with cheaper plots and more room than Reefside, it had been a convenient location to build company-funded housing.
"Could be," Tommy murmured, feeling a crushing sensation wash over him. He'd expected Jason to jump at the chance of a life together, or at least give it serious consideration; this casual dismissal was more than disappointing. His shoulders slumped as he tried to brace himself for the rejection that would surely follow soon.
"Can't be more than twenty-five or thirty miles from Reefside," Jason went on blithely, still staring across the water. "Are the roads open in winter? If not, it might be tricky to drive in case of snow. Although I think Mercer would see to it that they're cleared; after all, he'll want his work force in place on time each day."
"Whatever."
Jason hid a smile as he snuck a glance at his lover. There was so much listlessness and disappointment in that one word, it would be heart-wrenching if he didn't have a remedy at hand. True to form, Tommy was assuming the worst once more, not even considering that he might have a reason for his seeming indifference. Well, he was about to get a surprise.
"Don't you get a lot of students at Reefside High from the middle school there?"
"Yeah." Tommy's reply was curt as he turned away, preparing to return to his car. He didn't want to wait until Jason got around to breaking his heart completely. Just say it. Do it in one strike, not piece by piece! But Jason's indecently cheerful voice held him back.
"The reason I'm asking is ... the Brookside school district has decided to open up their own high school this summer. The student body certainly is large enough now, and they expect more growth in the next few years." Tommy showed no reaction beyond a disinterested shrug and was pointedly not looking him, hurt in every line of his body, so Jason decided to take him out of his misery.
"The position of Head of Athletics is still open; I saw an ad in the TA's newsletter last month and sent in a job application. I have an interview lined up two weeks from now."
It took Tommy several seconds until the information Jason had just given him filtered into his brain. When it finally did, he whirled around to stare wide-eyed at his best friend.
"Wh-what?"
Jason smiled gently, his eyes warm with love. "If I get the job, it would be an easy commute from your house," he murmured softly. "If you really think you can put up with me 24/7, that is."
Suddenly dizzy with relief and excitement, Tommy took a swaying step forward. "Oh God, Jase ...!" He was caught safely in strong arms and buried his face in the crook of Jason's neck.
"It's by no means certain I'll get the job," Jason warned, his breath tickling moistly against Tommy's ear. "I'm still fairly young, but as it's a new school ... I think I may have a realistic chance. And it would be the perfect solution, don't you think?"
"Perfect, yeah," Tommy breathed, wrapping his lover into a crushing hug. "Shit, Jase, I thought-"
"-the worst, as usual," Jason chuckled, hugging back. "Do you really think I'd refuse when you were offering me the one thing I've wanted ever since we got together?"
"Yes. No. I don't know," Tommy confessed, blushing with chagrin at having jumped to the wrong conclusion ... and growing giddy with delight. "Aw, man!"
"Exactly!"
They both laughed, midnight-dark eyes meeting sparkling brown ones, and as one leaned forward until their lips met. The kiss started softly, but soon gained in intensity as their emotions surged.
Tommy didn't think at all; he just reveled in new hope and a sense of elation he hadn't felt since the first time they made love. If things fell the way they wanted, soon they would no longer have to hide the fact that they were a couple in all ways - and for all his reservations and fears in the past months, he could hardly wait! The time was right; it was the right choice to make.
For Jason, it was yet another step towards a full union - not only had they just made a further commitment to each other by agreeing to make their relationship official, but they were also for the first time sharing a kiss in public. As gestures of intimacy went, it wasn't exactly earth-shattering, but still a long way from the secrecy they'd observed until now. He was content with the choice - it felt /right/.
All things combined, it was a strong aphrodisiac, and Jason felt his body tighten. A soft moan from Tommy directly into his mouth and a nudge from slim hips against his own showed that his feelings were being fully reciprocated. There was a hardness to match his own pressing against his belt. Jason sighed happily and moved closer against Tommy, not caring whether a stranger might see.
Suddenly they were interrupted by a shout.
"Hey, guys! Get a room!"
Startled, they broke apart and looked over their shoulders. The shout had come from the water - one of the fishing boats was trawling past them, and a sailor was grinning broadly at them from the stern. He waved, then casually slung an arm around a second fisherman who'd come up beside him. They seemed comfortable in the loose embrace.
Slightly breathless from their intense kiss and his growing arousal, Jason nevertheless freed one arm from Tommy's waist and waved back, then grinned at his lover.
"What a great idea."
"Downright excellent," Tommy agreed, fighting not to squirm in his suddenly too-tight pants. "Why don't we?"
"I thought you'd never ask," Jason whispered huskily.
Tommy kissed him again, briefly but thoroughly. "So let's get home - remember, I said this morning I have plans for tonight." He gave a suggestive wink.
Reluctantly, Jason let go completely and took Tommy's hand, giving it a tug in the direction of the black jeep. "So do I," he replied with a wicked leer.
Butterflies were stirring in Tommy's stomach as he followed willingly, growing increasingly eager to get Jason home ... and into his bed. It might be a little early for a celebration, as it was by no means certain that Jason would get the job in Brookhill; but if he didn't, they'd just start looking for another solution that suited them both. And meanwhile ... surely there was nothing wrong with anticipating the true party, was there?
"Anything I might be interested in?" he asked casually as he unlocked his car.
"Of course," Jason answered smoothly, climbing in. He was buckling up when he noticed Tommy's questioningly-raised eyebrow. "It's something fairly major, though," he warned.
Tommy's imagination soared into overdrive as he drove away from the marina. "Oh? Like what?" he breathed, his mouth getting dry with suspense. With Jason, 'something major' could involve anything from chocolate sauce to light bondage, and he couldn't wait to find out.
The angelic smile should have warned him. So should Jason's deliberately-innocent voice. But in his current euphoric state, Tommy misread the signs. Only his superb reflexes saved them from crashing with sheer amused outrage when Jason finally answered with fluttering eyelashes and a limp-wristed wave.
"Why, how to redecorate your house. What did you think?"
To Be Continued ...
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