Chapter 49

Here we are then, the penultimate chapter! Obviously now the timeline has 'caught up' so to speak, expect it to be shaped organically by whatever the creative team have planned to some extent. If this has been delayed it's because I want to make the most of the precious final two.


Johnny Curtis and his tag partner for the night, Maxine were sat at a table in catering, the large tanned hulk of a man unable to take his eyes over the beautiful Adonis sat in the far corner, giggling and larking about with Cody Rhodes and Josh Mathews. Johnny had heard through the grapevine that Alex had a date with that ref tonight and he was smarting more about it than he first realised. And it was showing.

"Why don't you just ask him out?" Maxine said as Johnny once again glanced across the room.

"I don't do dates...I'm not a pussy," Johnny snapped.

"I only asked," Maxine replied, holding her hands up, "Doesn't take anyone with half a brain to realise that you want A-Ry."

"He's an awesome lay, that's all," Johnny said, knowing he was kidding himself more than he was her.

"Right," Maxine snarked, "And you weren't pissed when Celeste told you about his date with the ref one bit?"

Johnny's face burned. Why had he been so obvious?

"I don't know why you'd want to go there," continued Maxine, "Alex is a good guy...but he's a slut. Everyone knows that. And I bet he's high maintenance."

"I like that, keeps things fresh," Johnny said.

"He'd get bored of you and find some other big beefcake to sit on," Maxine said, "You're better off finding someone else."

Meanwhile, back at the Table Of Gay, Josh had excused himself for the bathroom, leaving Alex alone with Cody. And the Intercontinental Champion had noticed Johnny gawping from the other side of the room. He picked up on the vibes instantly. He too, was starting to agree with Teddy and was confused as to why Alex din't just swallow his pride and ask out Johnny. The brunette man was Alex's type to a tee - muscular, manly, chiselled and from what Cody could see, very stacked down below. And he was bigger than Alex. Why was Alex wasting his time bending over for cameramen and referees when he wasn't whoring his body out on Grindr, when he had sheer male perfection in the form of Johnny who wanted him all to himself?

Cody would have done anything to be with Ted back in the day, and when he realised that Ted liked him as well...he'd been the happiest boy in the WWE. Ted was perfection in Cody's eyes...everything a man should be. Johnny and Alex could join their ranks as the WWE's power male-male couples if they wanted. They had the looks, charisma and moves.

"Someone's looking at you, Mary," he smirked.

"Can it. Spocky." Alex shot back.

A shorter dark-haired man had wandered over at that point, already dressed in the standard-issue black track pants and black-and-white striped tee. Alex's hook-up for the night, the angry and hot referee.

Alex just grinned lasciviously at his prey. He may be the one taking the dick but he was calling the shots. This man had no idea what would hit him after the shows.

"Hey," the ref drawled, cockily

"Well hello...big boy," Alex camped back, "Can't wait until wrap-time."

He grabbed the dark man's crotch. Cody raised his eyebrows. Talk about indiscreet...fuckin' Vince could walk by and see that!

"You sure you ain't a vers?" the ref continued, "Never had a bigger bottom before."

"In for a treat," Alex said, groping once more, "See you later."

The ref clicked his tongue and winked at Alex before sauntering away.

"Kevin Kiley, you are fucking shameless," Cody said.

"Jealous?" Alex smirked.

Cody regarded the older man with a look that almost resembled pity. Alex caught it and was a little confused.

"Actually," Cody said, "I'm not. Let's cut the crap and the gay shit for a minute. I said this to Joshy whom I love as much as any of my brothers so I got no problem with saying it to you. Everytime you fuck some random schmuck they take a piece of you. How many guys have you been with since you split with Evan?"

Alex actually had to stop and think. He had no idea. Johnny...John Cena...Hunico and they were just amongst colleagues. The cameraman for the WWE Youtube channel. The bears. Various Grindr tricks. Maybe, just maybe, Cody was talking sense.

"I don't honestly know," Alex said, "But should it matter? Maybe I'm just not into relationships. Don't like letting people inside my head."

"Joshy told me that before he hooked up with MIke, despite their whole thing being a train wreck, he felt empty. Do you not feel that?"

"I dunno...Cody, in case you've forgotten, we're men. Men don't talk about feelings. If I'm suffering, I'll let you know, OK?"

Cody sighed.

"Fine," he said, "Just remember who was there for you when Beardie made you feel about as worthy as a fly on dog shit."

"Okay, okay," Alex said, "I get it."

"Now if you'll excuse me," Cody said, "I have a fiance to call."

He stood up and threw his plate in the trash before leaving Catering. Alex still sat at the table, now genuinely starting to think about his actions over the past few months. But he'd made a promise to that ref. And promises must never be broken, especially when it came to booty calls.


It had been a long week and Josh was still reeling from the latest development in his working life - amidst horrible rumours that FCW was being shut down with immediate effect, the little man was now genuinely worried that his in-ring career would once again grind to a halt. Although from 2002 to 2011 he'd been perfectly content with just commentating, ring announcing and the backstagey stuff (apart from his 2004 matches on Smackdown obviously), now he'd been competing semi-regularly and most recently, virtually full-time in FCW, he didn't want this to be cut off.

But he'd been assured by bigwigs that he was safe and wasn't going to be sent packing...he was still contracted to WWE after all as an announcer, so until any further news came, he was to continue attending FCW from Wednesdays to Sundays as normal.

He was most excited about Thursday, because guess who was making her formal in-ring return finally?

Oh yes. Layla was stepping back into the ring.

Josh had been training with his best lady friend for a few weeks now when he was at developmental, sometimes under the watchful eye of Dusty Rhodes...Layla had updated her move set as well and Josh was itching to see her in proper action.

But for now he had to be content with being a commentator as it was NXT, Superstars and Smackdown tonight. Cody wasn't wrestling but he had a couple of appearances.

The two troublemakers were sat outside in the glorious sunshine, enjoying their customary smokes.

"Alright for some, you virtually got tonight off, bitch," Josh complained to his best friend.

"Can it," Cody said, "You just concentrate on perfecting your craft while FCW is still with us."

"Alright, Cody DeMott," Josh sighed, "I was only playing. Nice shirt by the way."

"Aww, thanks," smiled Cody, "Teddy bought it for me."

"How is he?" asked Josh, "I miss him as well. You look so lonely without him."

"You not subscribed to his channel? Got a new video out," Cody grinned.

"You filmed it, didn't you?"

"Of course," Cody grinned, "Just Teddy. At home. With Riggs. We'd had sex just before we started filming."

Josh rolled his eyes. Cody looked pleased with himself.

"I take it you let the dog out beforehand?"

"Course! What do you think I am, an animal?"

"I thought Teddy was meant to be resting his shoulder? Not good for him having 215 pounds of power bottom queen bouncing on it."

Cody aimed a kick at the little man's shins.

"I was gentle with him. I can be, you know."

"I'm sure you can," Josh smirked, "With your hands and legs tied. I hear you've been giving Alex one of your Dr Runnels specials?"

"Well, I had to say something."

"What? You encourage him half the time! He does it to get reactions from us, have you not realised?"

"Well..yeah! That's why I gave him a dressing down."

"Coddles, much as it pains me to admit this as you're my surrogate brother, but sometimes you have to live and let live. I know you mean well, you're one of the most caring, selfless guys I've ever met, but sometimes, with all due respect for the Runnels name...butt out."

Cody considered himself told.

"Alex is happy with no ties," Josh continued, "As long as he's careful, right? He uses protection...as far as I'm aware."

The boys headed back inside. Which was lucky because out in the parking lot...


..Alex Riley moaned wantonly as he broke the kiss.

"Oh Johnny..." he gasped.

Johnny Curtis just smiled at the hunk in his arms, as they shifted their position on the folded-down back-seats of the black Voyager MPV Johnny had hired from the airport...with tinted glass. He had chosen it with the express reason of laying Alex in it.

Johnny had aleady changed into his leather jacket and jeans for tonight's show when Alex had arrived. Alex had been thinking about what Cody had said to him last week constantly and the younger man's words did make a lot of sense. Alex had still shagged the referee (who was awesome sex, he might add) silly - they'd been up all night and in about four positions...but Alex had actually managed to abstain from sex all week.

Johnny Curtis was one of the hottest babes on the WWE roster in Alex's eyes, if not THE hottest. And this was from the muscular slut who'd bedded John fuckin' Cena! The brunette man was practially a regular fuckbuddy for Alex anyway - they'd had an agreement over in the Arab Emirates to keep each other company (and get noise complaints) so why not just make it permanent? Not be committed boyfriends, but friends with benefits?

Johnny was of course unaware of Alex's scheming but was more than content with getting another go with the hot Adonis with the tight ass. Maxine had been prodding him all week to just man up and ask Alex out, but Johnny's pride got in the way. He'd got it bad for Alex (who wouldn't? the man was a hottie! And DAT ASS..) but he thought that a relationship would cross the line for him into full blown gay-ness. He liked sex with men..it was sweaty and exciting...a taboo subject. Being in a relationship would make it mundane and constant.

Alex's shorts and trainers were tossed into the corner, and as the slut was going commando, he was now being ravished in nothing more than a black nylon top with the WWE logo on and his baseball cap. Johnny unbuttoned his jeans and threw them down to his ankles, not an easy task in the back of the cramped MPV. His boxer briefs were stretched to breaking point and Alex was itching to have them off Johnny in a flash. He reached forward to grope the older man's hardon.

Johnny gasped a little at Alex's touch.

"Take them off," Alex mewed.

Johnny just smirked arrogantly as he slowly pulled them down, his boner springing free. He eventually struggled out of the bottom layer of clothes, leaving his leather jacket on. Actuallyscrew that, he threw it off.

Alex moaned at the sight of that gorgeous naked body. He peeled off his own top, but left his cap on. He spread his legs.

"Do me," he moaned, a sluttish smile on his chiselled face.

"What you waitin' for then, Riley? Spread 'em." drawled Johnny.

"Ooopsie, I don't have any lube or rubbers," Alex said, looking ever naughtier by the second, "Spit."

Johnny obliged. They'd got this far. He wanted Alex's ass. And Alex was gagging for his cock. He spat some more on his fingers and began to slowly scissor Alex, trying to be gentle so he didn;'t hurt the man.

"Come on Johnny...come on," gasped Alex impatiently.

"Easy...easy," Johnny said calmly, his voice sending shivers up Alex's spine. His recent 'creepy' persona on NXT was a huge turn-on for Alex.

When he was satisfied that Alex was prepped enough, Johnny shuffled forward, lining up. Alex was now totally on his back, legs apart and resting hopefully on Johnny's shoulders. His body was ready. Oh yeah.

Johnny pushed in, feeling those now-familiar walls open and the heat beginning to surround him. Alex moaned loudly.

"About...fucking...time," he gasped, "Further!"

Johnny pushed in some more.

"More!" barked Alex.

He was so demanding. God, this was intoxicating. And this was why Johnny liked sex with men more...they could take everything he had to offer and more. Or it was just because in bed he was a selfish, aggressive cad.

He snapped his hips and pushed more, so he was right the way inside Alex and thise smooth, big ass cheeks were rubbing against his pelvis.

"Ohh! Oooooh!"

Alex's moans and mews and his hands moving to grab Johnny's ass were enough to tell the brunette he done good. He began to pound Alex who of course was deciding to not be quiet today.

Johnny leaned forward and began to devour Alex's lips hungrily, hoping to shut him up a little if he kissed him.

But Alex was not a boy to be silenced - if he was enjoying himself, he wanted his partner to know about it.

"Hey...hey...hey..." Johnny soothed in his treacly, unctuous on-screen 'creep' voice once more, "Ssssh...ssshhhh...quiet."

"Shut me up then!" Alex cried, grinning.

SMACK!

Alex just moaned even louder.

"I'm a screamer...deal with it!" he mewed.

He was in so much pleasure...the rough carpet of the folded seats...a gorgeous babe of a man inside him...they were in public, the car park of their workplace..anyone could walk by and open the tailgate, catch them...and Johnny repeatedly smacking his prostate.

Johnny wanted to make Alex come first...but the blonde's loud cries and moans, those hands gripping his backside, the tight heat...Johnny was so close...SO CLOSE...he wanted to make Alex see stars..he reached up and grabbed Alex's ankles, holding his legs in place. Alex's eyes lit up even more.

Johnny used his big powerful thighs to lock Alex in like a vice before using his hips to really go for it, fucking Alex as hard and as deep as he could...it was no use...he could feel it...but Alex was gripping him tight as anything...the blonde's cries getting louder, faster...higher-pitched.

Alex SCREAMED as his skin was set alight and his body convulsed wildly..shooting long white ropes all up his sweat-sheened, perfect abs.

"OH! OOOOH! OH JOHNNY!" he whined, totally lost in his ectsasy. He could barely remember his name..

Johnny at last felt his own limits break and he drove one final time into Alex, growling mannishly, succumbing finally to his own orgasm.

Alex groaned more as he felt the warmth splatter inside him...he thrust up to ride Johnny's orgasm out with him even though he himself was already totally spent.

Johnny pulled out, ignoring the inevitable embarrassing sound and laying next to his fuckbuddy.

"You. Are. Fucking...AMAZING!" Alex moaned, grabbing Johnny's head and kissing him, noticing how this time, Johnny didn't push him away.

"I think..I've probably made you pregnant," Johnny smirked. Alex smirked back.

"If you did...kid would be a looker," Alex said, "Oh Johnny...you're so fucking good in bed. You're one of the few boys that know what I like."

Johnny had to hide the flash of jealous rage that flared up in his stomach. And when Alex once again farted involuntarily he sprang up.

"Where you going?" Alex asked, a horrible flashback going through his mind.

Johnny couldn't tell him. He couldn't pussy out. Not at this stage. If Alex saw that he was in fucking love with him, he'd laugh him out the door.

"Put your shorts back on and get back inside, you slut," snarled Johnny.

Alex grinned. Phew. And hello bad boy.

"Yes Daddy," he said.

Johnny winced. Talk about the wrong impression.

"You sure you don't want round two?" Alex purred, spreading his legs once more, looking so hot and naughty that Johnny felt his cock start to harden again already.

"Haven't you got a match tonight, anyway?" he asked.

"Have I? I dunno...it slipped my mind," Alex camped playfully, "Got other distractions around, see?"

Johnny was pulling his boxers and jeans on...again not easy in this confined space. He pulled his jacket on and buttoned it. He wished Alex would put some fucking clothes on.

Alex pulled his shorts on reluctantly and sat up next to Johnny.

"What's up, honey?" he asked.

He normally wouldn't do this with his other conquests but Johnny intrigued him.

"Who's gonna be next after me, hey?" Johnny spat, "We got a good thing going you and me, are you really so fucking insatiable that you need it every other day?"

"Leave."

Alex's voice was suddenly low.

"Huh?"

Johnny was thrown. Was Alex chucking him out?

"Fuck off. Go on, I thought we understood that no emotional shit was to come between us. It was just about sex. Leave. Please. Come back when you've taken your balls out of Maxine's purse."

Johnny was so hurt it was unbelieveable. What a heartless slut. Oh he was all compliments when they were engaging in foreplay and during sex...but once they'd both shot their wads it was a different story. Johnny had liked it that way before. But now...no. He hated it. And couldn't believe he was letting Alex use him like this.

He clicked the handle and threw open the tailgate, stomping out of the back of the car, leaving Alex in just a pair of nylon sports shorts sat there for the world to see.

Alex sighed. He pulled on his t-shirt and stood up, wincing at the slight pain in his ass. Johnny was good sex. But Alex was petrified that if they made the step from being casual fuckbuddies to boyfriends...he would just get hurt once again. At least by being a shameless slut he could get what he wanted and his repaired self-confidence remained intact. He missed the little things - dinners out, bedtime snuggles, ahving someone to watch your matches and cheer you on. But he was prepared to sacrifice that to stop himself being hurt. He'd never thought he would get hurt by Evan. It wasn't the drug-taking that pissed him off, as he'd told Josh and Cody on numerous occasions, but the lying. Evan had lied to him. Alex had told Evan some deeply personal stuff, such as his bedroom kinks and some of his insecurities. If Evan could lie about taking Spice, then what else didn't Alex know about him?

Alex hadn't enjoyed sex as much as he'd done in years. He was calling the shots and was in control of how he used his body. His working life involved regulating his body so his playtime was using it for his own pleasure. He really loved the thrill of a new body - new buttons to press, and how would a new partner please him. It had felt so good to be the one in control with this thing with Johnny, and he only carried it forward because Johnny had been perfectly content with keeping it strictly physical and casual. He'd never dreamed that rough, standoffish, manly Johnny would fall in love with him.

Alex had been sat there for what seemed like ages when he once again spied two men walking back out of the arena, both clad in stylish sunglasses - the taller in an off-grey, fitted shirt and jeans, the other in a smart suit. Josh and Cody. It had been a near miss earlier because while Alex was busy having his ass fucked by Johnny in the back that MPV, the boys had walked right by. Thank God for tinted windows. There were times when Alex felt a bit left out of Josh and Cody's world. Although they treated him as an equal friend, he couldn't help but feel like the third wheel, which was why half the time he put out and spread his legs for anything in trousers, just so he could have something to floor them with. Josh and Cody had been close, best friends for almost 5 years, if not already, whereas he, Alex had only been here for less than 2. He slid his trainers back on and waited, hoping that they would approach him for a change.

Cody sparked a cig and offered the pack to Josh before the pair settled by the wall. The Intercontinental Champion had caught sight of the figure in the open back of the Voyager and waved.

"Alex!" he called, beckoning.

Alex smiled and got to his feet, sauntering over.

"How you doing?" asked Cody, and Alex was pleased when the brunette hugged him.

"Alex, you OK?" asked Josh, who'd spotted the down look on the big man's face under his peaked cap.

"Been better," Alex confessed.

"Why? What's up?" asked the little man.

"Joshy," Alex began, "You know before you, settled down...did anyone ever fall in love with you and you had to tell them to back off?"

"Wow," Cody whistled, "This sounds heavy. Details?"

"Well," Josh said, "Only Coddles knew this so you better not breathe a word, kay? When I slept with Johnny Curtis back in 2009, he got a bit...clingy. Really wasn't down with the fact that the day after I fucked Brian Kendrick."

"I don't know what's worse," Cody remarked, "Him getting two in two nights, or fucking Kendrick. Apart from a cocky little shit, that dick looked like a pug! I dunno why he didn't go for Paul London!"

"Be serious," Josh said, "What's up Alex? You can tell us, we're your friends."

"He thinks he probably still has to book time with us," Cody put in helpfully, "Am I right?"

Cody was too perceptive for his own good sometimes. Guess it came with superhero comics and hours upon hours of video gaming!

"He should be a counsellor or a therapist," Josh said, giggling, "So, what's happened?"

"Just now, literally five minutes ago, Johnny and I.."

"In the back of that minivan?" exclaimed Cody, laughing.

"Beside the point," Alex said, "We finished up and then he got all funny."

"How do you mean?"

"Called me a slut..first I thought he was going to be all tough Daddy on me, but he was really pissed. Started going on about who the next after him was gonna be. So I threw him out."

"You did what?"

"Threw him out. Told him to fuck off and take his balls out of Maxine's purse."

Both Cody and Josh were stunned. They shared a look before one of them spoke again.

"Wow," Cody said again, "I don't blame him for being pissed if that's how you treated him. Didn't you tell us last week that he wanted to date you? Do you treat all your casual fucks like that?"

"No!" protested Alex, "Becuase they know what's what! I'm there to get pounded, and they need me to dump their loads in. We're both happy and get what we want, no fucking falling in love!"

"I know," Cody replied, "Come on though, dude, treat him with some respect! You...well...I hate to say this but..."

"It's something Justin would have done," Josh cut in, "Alex, you've become the one thing you hate."

Alex went bright red and his mouth dropped open.

"This is why I stopped sleeping around," Cody said, "It takes so much of you. I hate to say i told you so.."

"Then don't!" snapped Alex, "Not everybody lives their lives the fucking Cody Runnels way, OK? Some of us like casual sex. The last thing I wanted was to be hurt by yet another lying user."

"So you've become the lying user instead," Cody said, "And you know I'm right."

"And I'm inclined to agree," Josh said gravely.

"WHAT? YOU?" Alex cried, voice un-naturally shrill now, "You were the biggest fucking hoe in the business until you got with Steamboat! Even then you rode him on a bench before you realised he was worth waiting for and just before that you had a fucking threesome with me and Evan! You are a fucking hypocrite, Lomberger!"

Cody's eyes flashed and he squared up to Alex.

"You better keep your mouth shut before I knock one of your fucking teeth out, Kiley," snarled the brunette, "Grow the fuck up and stop behaving like a scene queen. You're in your thirties. You're not nineteen anymore. Come back when you've matured. If that's your attitude no wonder you're stuck in NXT hell."

Josh was stuck slap-bang in the middle now. He cared about Alex but he was also touched how instantly Cody leapt to his defence. But Cody's remark was below the belt.

Alex's mouth went into a thin line. He stood stock-still for a minute. Josh nervously looked from one man to the other. But rather than swing for Cody, Alex just sneered and then sauntered off.

"Yeah that's right, go onto Grindr, make your point," Cody was muttering, "Don't come knocking on my hotel room door when you test positive for AIDS."

"Don't you think you were a bit hard on him, Coddles?" asked Josh nervously.

"Me?" Cody said incredulously, "Did you not hear what he said to you?"

"Yeah, but I'm not bothered, he was lashing out because he was probably hurting," Josh said.

Alex had stormed into the arena with a face like thunder. He didn't know what smarted the most. The fact that he'd fucked up his friendships once more, potentially losing Johnny, or simply, that Josh and Cody were actually spot on about what he'd become - he was too stubborn to admit it.

He wasn't on the card for NXT or Smackdown, and he'd done a match with Mason last night for Superstars (Rosa barking abuse at him in Spanish at ringside the entire time). So basically, he could walk right out this arena, hook up with some schmuck on Grindr and get his ass fucked through the mattress and nobody would miss him. Twice in one night wasn't unheard of. Plus he needed something to make him forget about the shit that had gone down today. He headed back to the locker room where he'd left his bag, settled down and fired up the most-used app on his phone.


Meanwhile Josh and Cody were also back inside now, staring at the running order, Josh a little perturbed. They'd booked Josh to work an untelevised match against Curt Hawkins for the Smackdown portion of Superstars. He was down to win but that was beside the point. He had no wrestling attire with him today, Layla had offered to keep hold of it when he was on the road working his WWE commentary duties!

"Why me?" he complained as Cody chuckled beside him.

"Gonna have an underwear match?" the ravenette smirked.

"Coddles, can I borrow your trunks and boots? Please?" pleaded Josh.

"With my initials on? Anyway, they'd be too big for your little ass," Cody grinned, "Ask Brie or Nikki if they can lend you their shorts...or borrow Beth's skirt? Do it in drag?"

"Not helping!" grizzled Josh, thumping his bestie on the arm.

Daniel Bryan appeared at that point, flanked by Brie Bella.

"You may be in luck Joshy," Cody said, spotting Brie, "Hey a little favour? Brie, have you got a spare pair of wrestling shorts for skinny-ass here as mine won't fit him?"

"Sure," Brie said, "Hang on, I'll be right back."

She pecked Daniel's cheek before walking back in the direction she came from.

"Torn between two lovers?" snarked Cody.

"Have you got a smartass answer for everything?" chuckled Daniel.

"Pretty much," Cody said.

"Let me guess, did that shirt have a price?" the WHC continued, noting the expensive garment and Cody's general swagger, "How is the old man anyway?"

"Going out fishing tomorrow," Cody said, "Luckily his gramps and dad are keeping him occupied."

"Apart from his 'other' needs," smirked Bryan.

Brie reappeared at that point and tossed a shiny piece of black clothing at Josh.

"This is all I got," she said, "Didn't think you wanted my leggings as well."

"Thanks," Josh said, opening the tiny shorts and holding them against himself.

"If you can fit into those I'll eat a prime ribeye," Daniel said, "Honestly...how do you do it...I couldn't get one leg into those!"

Josh tore off his jacket and undid his chinos.

"Josh, I have to know, can I feel your legs?" Brie asked, "Sorry, got a bet going with Barbie about how your legs are probably softer than hers!"

Josh was blushing now. Cody and Bryan were howling with silent laughter. The little man raised his leg and the giggling brunette girl reached out and stroked his calf.

Well Josh was proud of his petite figure but he always got a bit shy when girls complimented him!

"That's fifty bucks to me, thanks Josh," grinned Brie, "By the way, you can keep them, getting some new clothes this week anyway. And Cody? Take a photo and tweet me it?"

"Then your tweet count will shoot up to a shocking FIVE?" teased Bryan.

Cody pulled the now-scarlet, half-dressed Josh back down the corridor and into the relative safety of the superstars' locker room, still shaking with silent giggles. Poor little Josh. Such a lothario with men and yet a gorgeous woman flirts with him and he's reduced to a scared little boy.

"Coddles...SHUT UP.." Josh groaned, trying desperately to avoid Cody's smirk.

"Awww...c'mon Joshy, you gotta hit puberty at some point...she's a lady..they don't bite you know! You let Lay wax your legs and don't complain!"

"She's like my sister, that's different!"

"How?"

"Coddles. Can it. You're such a bitch."

"Joshy...no way will you get that belt over your briefs. Get 'em off. Now."

"Coddles!"

"I've seen your junk before, countless times. Take them off, unless you want to advertise Aussiebum for free when kicking Hawkins' ass."

"Fine," sighed Josh.

"Besides, Richie won't get mad, he LOVES me," teased Cody, "It's a known fact that you can never hate your boyfriend's best friend. Now. Strip."

Josh sighed as he removed his underwear and socks. He began to pull on the tiny black shorts. His legs had got a bit beefier since joining FCW and wrestling for four days a week...but yes..the shorts fit. Very nicely too. Cody padded over to his bag and tossed his black boots to Josh who gladly took them and began to shuffle his feet into them, pulling the laces as tight as could go.

After weeks of wearing the green, purple, multicoloured or silver/blue pants in the ring, Josh felt very exposed.

"Coddles, can I borrow your kneepads so I look less like a strippogram?" whined Josh.

"No, i think you look hot like that...hang on, I think a bit of Zebrahead's in order.."

"Don't you dare!" Josh moaned, "I need pads and tape as well..something..feel like I should be pole-dancing in a fucking gay club!"

The shorts were tight around his crotch..but pleasurably tight rather than suffocating. Cody took pity on his blushing friend and tossed him his wrist tape. Josh eagerly taped himself up and began to stretch his limbs.

Cody couldn't help but gaze at his hot little friend. FCW had done wonders for his already-sexy physique. His thighs were more muscular, his ass had definitely got bigger and his abs more defined...especially his hiplines. His inked arms were more ripped than before too. Richie Steamboat was a lucky fucker.

"Strike a pose," Cody said, whipping his phone out.

Josh tried to make himself look as butch as possible so he looked like a wrestler not a Bel-Ami boy or a gay swimwear model but it was tough in so little clothes. He posed with a big cheesy grin like Cody had a habit of doing. The ravenette grinned and snapped it.

"First things first, a little something to keep Richiekins happy," he said, searching his contacts and before Josh could stop him, had sent it to Richie, "Joshy...how do you send photos by private message again?"

Josh rolled his eyes. It was like teaching a grandma how to use a PC with him! He took the phone and explained the direct message code once more before sending the photo to thebellatwins via DM.

"For sending that to Richie I shouldn't have helped you..mean bitch," pouted Josh.

"Fank you!" Cody said, grinning charmingly so Josh couldn't be mad at him, "Now, give me your suit stuff, I'll go give it to a roadie to put by your seat so you can do your entrance."

"You planned this didn't you?" Josh said, penny dropping.

"At last!" chuckled Cody, "I wanted to see you wrestle!"

"Give Stephanie the big puppy-dog eyes?" snarked Josh.

"It worked! Now gimme."

He grabbed the purple shirt, tie and black jacket and strutted away, leaving Josh to warm his body up for his match.


Curt Hawkins had approached Josh and gruffly asked him about any spots. Josh just thought they could probably pull of a couple of their signatures - Curt's big body slam move, the Layout, and Josh wanted to win by moonsault. His moonsault was now truly a thing of beauty - he'd been working even harder to improve it during FCW and had garnered some praise for his execution of the move. He reckoned he could definitely rival Cody now.

Curt went out first and got his boos before the sassy beats hit and the crowd actually gave quite a pop for Josh as he walked nervously out onto the stage, remembering that in WWE-land he was still a face due to his role as the play-by-play commentator - he'd been so used to playing the screaming, vicious heel in FCW recently that he'd almost forgot how to face-wrestle.

He high-fived a few audience members on his way down before taking Layla's pose on the ropes, flexing his ripped yet still-tiny body a bit more than usual before climbing into the ring.

DIng!

He and Curt tied up before the former Tag Champ tossed Josh over with an arm drag. The little man sprang back up and ran directly into another arm drag. Curt dived for a quick cover...one..Josh threw his body up, with one of his more heelish screams. Whoops. Mustn't do that!

He let Curt get the upper hand initially with a reverse chin-lock, Josh selling the pain, grimacing and groaning.

"TAP! TAP! ANNOUNCER!" barked Curt.

A few crowd members were clapping to spur Josh on, so he grunted as he raised his lithe body upwards, loosening the hold...he broke it and ran the ropes, aiming a dropkick at Curt, smartly flooring him temporarily...just as Curt stood back up, Josh was ready with another one - a classic FCW technique.

He ran at Curt once more but the longhaired man caught him in a sidewalk hold, spinning him around, Josh managing to kick his feet up and take Curt down with a headscissors. He floated over into a cover...1...2..Curt kicked out.

"ARE YOU SERIOUS?" Josh cried out, and fought the urge to grin when several people laughed, getting his joke instantly. He raised Curt up and set him up for the Simply Flawless (his verson of the French Kiss). He made to throw his body back but Curt wriggled out, countering the move and with a growl, scooped Josh up and planted him hard to the mat in his signature big slam..not a huge effort with a body that weighed about 160 pounds these days. Curt went to cover..1..2..Josh kicked out at two and a half.

"Aw, COME ON!"groaned Curt, pushing his sweaty blonde locks back over his head as he raised Josh to his feet...Josh was ready and the little man kicked him in the gut..Curt doubling over..Josh made to grab Curt's head..whispering "Hangman's!" as he did so, smartly twisting around and jumping onto his bottom, Curt almost folding in half as he sold the Layout to perfection. Josh crawled to his feet and pointed at the turnbuckle. He made to scale it, acting like he was attempting Everest..he stood up, balancing himself...spotting Curt staggering up out the corner of his eye. Perfect. This would look much better.

He leapt backwards, his body flipping gracefully over, much straighter than he'd done in the past...definitely tied with one of Cody's in terms of height and distance..collecting Curt and sending them both to the mat. Josh managed to hold himself in position...he scooted around a little to hook both Curt's legs...one..two..three...

He got a rousing cheer as the referee (the one Alex had fucked, ironically) helped him up and raised his arm, as 'Nasty Girl' resumed playing.

Curt slowly began to make his back up the ramp, and Josh made his way out of the ring to his seat next to Matt, who was stood applauding him. Sure enough Cody had neatly folded Josh's clothes on the seat.

"That was awesome!" Matt said, obviously without his headset on, "Jackie said you'd been really good over there but, wow...that moonsault."

"Stop it," Josh said, flushing once more, "His is getting good too!"

"What was with the outfit?" grinned Matt, sitting back down as Josh reached for the towel that Cody had ever so thoughtfully placed under the table and began to wipe his sweaty body down, "I thought you'd gone all demure and started wearing pants?"


"OH YES! OOOOH!" screamed Alex, body locking tight as he released over the man's bed, getting off even more at the sight of himself in the mirrored wardrobe, being pounded doggie-style, knowing that he was meant to be at the arena right now.

Thank FUCK for Grindr was all he could say.


Josh and Cody were at opposite ends of the car park after Smackdown had wrapped for the night, both men on the phone to Richie and Teddy respectively.

Josh was struggling to pull himself together - RIchie had been whipped to a peak by that photo Cody had sent of Josh in Brie's shorts and was in the mood for dirty phonesex. So was Josh but now wasn't the time...not outside where ANYONE could find them!

Cody meanwhile was fussing over Ted, trying to make sure the blonde wouldn't aggravate his repaired shoulder or broken foot - Ted reassuring his little worrier that everything was fine.

"Baby boy, calm yourself, if anything goes wrong I can call my pop," he was saying, laughing to himself, idly playing tug-of-war with RIggs and an old sock of his, the labrador growling playfully as he fought to win the game. Cody was such a little worrybox but Ted wouldn't have him any other way.

"I don't wanna do house shows," whined the ravenette, "I wanna go to Missisippi and be with you."

Ted couldn't help but feel warm and fuzzy inside at that. Bless him. Howeber he was a champion and borderline main-eventer who had responsiblities to Vince, and Ted would rather Cody didn't get into trouble at work than come fuss over him.

"Baby boy, this close to Mania you got more important things to worry about than lil' old me," drawled Ted, "You just concentrate on thrilling the fans...do more moonsaults."

"Oh by the way, Joshy had a match tonight, he had to borrow Brie Bella's short-shorts...he looked like a member of the Chippendales!" Cody giggled, "And my boots!"

"Watched some videos on Youtube earlier," Ted said, "The episode of Sackdown before Night Of Champions...where I came out the crowd and attacked you...forgot how HOT you looked without kneepads, baby boy. Got me all worked up."

Cody giggled shyly. He remembered that night all too well. Intense!Teddy was a very hot Teddy, and he had to sell the heck out of the Dream Street to hide his boner! The moment they'd got backstage he'd had to control himself. Firstly for not throwing Ted down and mounting him right there, but also for not thumping Edge, who'd returned that night and teased him rotten! And as for their match at the following PPV...oh yeah, that was one hell of a night.

"How worked up did you get, Teddybear?" he asked naughtily, wishing he was in the hotel room now...he was feeling uncomfortable aroused.

"Well...I had a lil bit of tension that needed taking care of," teased Ted, knowing how much this would get Cody going, "So I just recalled Night Of Champions, post-match...you were a little spitfire that night weren't you?"

"Only thanks to you, Teddy," moaned Cody. He unzipped his jeans. Would anyone notice? He decided to hell with that and sat in front of his rental car so he was hidden from view of most people and undid his jeans, pulling them down with his free hand to his knees...enjoying the air hitting his bare skin.

Ted could hear the rustling down the phone as well as Cody's breathing...how hot was this?

"Whatchoo doin', trouble?" he drawled playfully.

"I'm sat outside in the parking lot, all in the ope Teddy, wishing you were here...I need you Teddy...need your cock inside me...throwing me over the hood.."

Ted was starting to get hard as well..despite finding this hilarious how Cody was just so easy to get going!

And over the other side, also hidden behind a parked car, was Josh, his chinos around his ankles, legs apart, fisting himself frantically. Richie was telling Josh exactly what he'd liked to do to the little minx after he paraded his pert ass to all and sundry in those borrowed shorts...and Josh was loving it.

"Oh Richheeee...more..." he moaned.

"I'd spank your ass...you're screaming like the little bitch you are..." the younger man purred, loving this...he'd never imagine he'd dominate an older man like this...but when said older man looked like Josh..

This was too much for Josh who was petrified Cody would discover him, and he finally exploded, unable to roll his shirt and tie up in time and he unloaded all over them.

Richie, who was quite comfortable in his hotel room for the night, heard Josh orgasm and nearly lost it himself. But he decided to save himself for when he had the pretty little vixen all to himself once more. Remarkable willpower for a twenty-four-year-old, he thought if he said so himself!

Before he'd rung Josh, he'd been watching a clip from 2005 when Josh got 'possessed' by the Undertaker and scared Randy Orton. Josh had looked SO young back then even though he was Richie's age already. Richie's naughty mind had imagine undoing that suit, and bending the little minx over and fucking him hard against that wall. And then Rhodes goes and sends him that photo! So Richie'd just had to call him!

They were both switching all the time and of late Josh had been the bottom more and more. He was still a little slutty in bed but Richie liked that. Their sex life was still red-hot at the moment and he was sure it was because they'd waited. Well, their initial bench encounter excepted obviously.

"You finished, baby?" he asked.

"Yeah," Josh panted, "Love you. Miss you. See you tomorrow."

"Love you too, and can't wait. Mwah."

"Mwah.

Josh hung up and slipped his phone back inside his jacket. He felt a little dirty for not being able to control himself but it was hot. He pulled his briefs back up before fully dressing. He had to make sure his jacket was done up so Cody didn't see the evidence all over his shirt. He padded back towards the hire car he and Cody were once again sharing.

He spotted a head of very short brown hair behind the front of the car. No way? He wasn't doing what Josh thought he was doing?

"OHHHH TEDDY!" Cody cried out, startling Josh so hard the little man almost fainted. When the older boy had regained his presence of mind, he began to laugh and loudly cleared his throat.

"AH-HU-HU-HEMM."

Cody's head snapped round, his blue eyes still dilated.

"Hey Joshy," he said innocently, his breathy voice betraying the fact that he'd just come all over the asphalt.

"Good call was it?" Josh grinned.

"Yup," Cody said, "Ugh Joshy it's not fair...why does Teddy have to be injured!"

He shuffled with his clothes, making himself look presentable before getting to his feet.

"Because life's a bitch?" Josh said,"Anyway, it's funny...I was so scared you'd come over and catch me out!"

"You been phone-sexing as well?" grinned Cody.

"Great minds think alike!" Josh said, "You up for hitting the bar or shall we stay in with pizza and a movie?"

"Pizza and movie, you need to be back in Florida tomorrow," Cody said, "And get to see your BOYFRIEND."

"Jealous are we?"

"Extremely. Your ass will be so sore this time tomorrow."

"I know!" smirked Josh, "Can't wait. Coddles..I can't believe this is happening to me...I think Richie is The One."

"I could have told you that before you decided to jump his bones in a locker room," Cody said, "I can read people's faces. And remember you though Miz was the one as well?"

"Ugh, how wrong I was," Josh said in disgust.

By now the boys had got inside the car and Cody started the engine. Josh knew his bestie drove like a pensioner but he was happy to not have the responsibility of driving.

As they pulled out the car park, Josh noted an old Pontiac Bonneville (well, one of the wallowy 1990s models) pull up, its amber parking lights ablaze, and a hulking figure in baseball cap and shorts step out, trying to slip in to the arena parking lot without being noticed. Josh spotted the slightly awkward walk of a man who'd recently been well-and-truly serviced.

"Coddles...look, it's Alex!" he said.

"How can you tell?"

"The cap..plus he's not the smallest guy is he? He's walking funny."

"Typical slut," snarled Cody.

"Coddles, don't be mean," Josh scolded.

"Oh no, he's gotta learn his lesson, I'm not picking him up, way he spoke to you and me," Cody said obstinately, "Maybe this time he'll realise that slutting it about is not a good look at his age!"

"His age, excuse me?" Josh challenged, "Just remember I'm older than him!"

"I know but...you.."

"But nothing!" cut in Josh, "Why does Alex sleeping around bother you so much?"

"Because I saw what it did to you!" Cody said, "And I don't want it to happen to anyone else."

"You can't change him unless he wants to change," Josh said, "If he's happy spreading his legs for randomers on Grindr, then, let him."

Cody suddenly braked hurriedly, almost throwing both himself and Josh out the windscreen.

"What now, jeez, trying to kill us?" complained Josh.

"Look...he's..no way...I'm sorry, this is too far," Cody said, unclicking his seatbelt and throwing open the driver's door.

"What now!" groaned Josh again, following the angry brunette.

"ALEX!" barked Cody.

The blonde, who'd been chatting to Zack Ryder (with his hand on his hip which to Josh signalled bad news - if Alex stood like that when he talked to you, he wanted your cock), paused and scowled at the Intercontinental Champion.

"Got nothing to say to you," he spat, "And this is a private conversation, do you mind?"

"Zack or Mattie, whatever you prefer," Cody said, "Just to fore-warn you, he's already had two men tonight, not sure he can manage a third, and anyway he probably hasn't washed himself."

Josh facepalmed. No, Cody...why do you have to be a bitch?

"Least I'm getting some, more than can be said for you with your lameass boyfriend," Alex hit back, "Butt out of my personal life Runnels."

Zack just looked bemused.

"What's goin' down, bro?" he asked Josh, "Thought you guys were all cool?"

"Basically, Alex and Coddles got their wires crossed...Coddles is a stubborn asshat who won't admit he was wrong, and well, so's Alex." sighed Josh, "By the way, I didn't know you were..you know...into men."

Zack's eyes widened.

"I'm not!" he protested.

Oh. Shit.

"In that case, I think we just saved you," Josh said, "Alex has a certain way he stands when he's found someone to flirt with. I think he was planning tyo bed you."

"Bro, it's cool," Zack said, smiling, "I've been kinda curious myself y'know? What's it like?"

"Oh...shit...sorry...I thought."

"You two need to fuckin' butt out!" Alex snapped, "Zack and I were just talking! That OK with the fuckin' queen bees?"

"Sorry, OK," Josh said, raising his hands, "Coddles, c'mon, let's go, we've done enough."

"How's Johnny Curtis these days, Alex?" Cody sneered.

Josh shot his friend an angry look and hit his arm, trying to shut him up.

Zack just took one look at the furious Cody and another at the exasperated Josh. And then he got an idea. He leapt at Alex and grabed the older, bigger man and began to make out with him. Alex mewed and kissed back.

Cody and Josh were stunned.

"Are you serious?" Josh asked.

Alex just looked at him. And started to laugh. Josh realised what he'd said and joined in. Even Cody was fighting to raise a smile.

"Cody...I'm sorry, I was out of line," Alex said.

Cody smiled. At last. He opened his arms and pulled to him. If you got a Cody hug after saying sorry you had nothing to worry about!

"So what was all that about?" he asked, grinning at Zack.

"It shut you up, didn't it, bro?" smirked Zack, "Besides, he has bad breath."

Alex blushed. That was because not too long ago, hed been rimming his trick for the night. Oops.

"Well we'd better get off," Josh said, "Sorry again for all the shit."

"It's cool, bro," Zack said as the two boys turned and padded away. He always found it so bizarre how those two were best friends. On screen they were worlds apart (unless Cody did commentary) and half the locker room (superstars AND Divas) were still convinced that MAthews and Rhodes were secretly having teh buttsecks behind DiBiase's and..whomever Mathews was supposedly dating's backs.

"So Zack," Alex said, grinning, once he was sure Cody and Josh were safely back in their car and out of earshot, "Where did you learn to do THAT with your tongue?"

Zack was one HELL of a kisser. Alex was definitely keen now. Not tonight. Three in one day? Slutty even by his standards. And this man had been in a few threesomes.

"I dunno bro," Zack shrugged, "And I didn't mean what I said about you havin' bad breath. Never been into guys, man so I dunno what its like."

"First time for everything," Alex said, a flirtatious smile on his face now, his hand once again resting on his hip, signalling to Zack that he was definitely interested in him now. Zack had to admit, Alex's presence was doing stuff to him. He'd never done shit with a guy before, not even when desperately frustrated on the road. Alex was getting closer, his cool minty breath blowing against Zack's chin, the peak of his cap just obscuring the mischeivous sparkle in his eyes.

Alex had chewed gum in the car journey from his trick's house back to the arena.

"If you're up for a hook-up, then if you like, you can room with me?" Alex said, "Tomorrow's house show?"

He reached forwards and rubbed Zack's crotch. He wanted nothing more than to sink to his knees and suck greedily on everything the Woo-Woo kid had to offer...Zack was one of the hottest faces in WWE right now, and even though Alex had had the cream of the crop in John Cena, to add the fan favourite Zack Ryder to his hit list would be brilliant. And also...Zack was a new boy. A virgin in the pleasures of homo. Alex would have to rectify that. After bedding Hunico (who'd really enjoyed being fucked up his ass too!) Alex was definitely hungry for another straight boy. Plus what Cody and Josh didn't know couldn't hurt them!


Josh had arrived at the arena in Florida for tonight's non-televised FCW show, itching to see his best friend in her proper in-ring return.

Richie had never seen Josh so excited, he was like a little kid since he came back over here yesterday afternoon! The little man had channelled some of his energy into Richie (literally) last night. And this morning.

Richie began to change into his own wrestling clothes, keeping his eyes fixed on Josh. He was so cute when he was like this. And he looked delicious today, in a tight white V-neck and beige three-quarters...his tan and ink really stood out.

"Are we the only ones in here?" asked Josh after a while.

"Think so, baby, why? Oh no...easy tiger. Control those hormones!"

"You're no fun!" pouted Josh, peeling off his tee seductively.

"Do you have to keep wearing pants to the ring?" complained Richie.

"Yes," Josh said obstinately, "I'm your property now. I'm not here to be gawked at. Unless its by you."

"So why the short-shorts on Tuesday?" grinned Richie, enjoying winding his beau up.

Josh just whined and pouted, trying to shut him up. He continued to undress. He was wearing a thong which was particularly clingy today..he bent over naughtily in front of Richie to reach into his bag. Dat Ass. RIchie reached forward and groped it. Josh giggled and wiggled his booty some more.

"You're a very naughty boy," Richie chuckled. He loved how Josh was just being himself at the minute...he was naturally playful when he wanted to be.

"Punish me, Steamboat," Josh purred, wiggling his ass some more.

"Stop it, you," RIchie said, swatting Josh's bare cheeks..oh they were so soft...he was starting to get very turned on. No. Focus. Wrestling. FUcking later. Lovemaking later even.

"You love me," Josh said, at last finding his green pants and slipping them on.

"Don't put them on two legs at a time!" Richie reminded him, in reference to Cody's random twitvid.

"Oh God...he still hasn't actually got the point of Twitter," Josh sighed, "It's a good job he's got Brandi to hold his hand whilst Teddy's still indisposed."

"She still likes you," teased Richie, "She better keep her hands off my man!"

"Nobody gets to touch me," Josh said, "All yours, Richard."

"So why were you whoring your legs to the Bella twins then?"

"MEAN!" pouted Josh, pulling the pants up and covering his ass, pulling the silver belt tight. He pulled on his FLAWLESS sleeve before turning to face Richie, who deftly tidied him up a bit, and spiking his hair back in place. Josh's small blue eyes fluttered shut and his lips fell into that adorable soft pout he always had on whenever someone styled his hair. Richie now insisted on doing Josh's hair for him when they were together just for how cute he looked when doing it. He was like a little puppy being groomed.

"Right then baby, wanna go see Lay?" Richie asked, "I'll be training in the ring. Come come."

Josh leaned in for his kiss. RIchie's soft lips fell onto his and they shared a gentle embrace, Josh nuzzling gratefully against his man. He was so lucky. Even if he still wanted Richie to get a haircut and a shave!

"See you later," Josh breathed, pecking Richie's lips once more before departing.

RIchie just watched the adorable little man leave. Well he was adorable until he stepped into the ring - then he was a heelish cruiserweight with an ever-increasing repertoire of crisp, offensive moves. The skills he'd learned in his teens and early twenties had never left him, it had just taken time for him to tap back into them after a long, long hiatus. Richie was so proud of him.

Josh made his way towards the ladies' locker room. He knocked. A smiling brunette opened, her eyes lighting up at the cute specimen there. Paige AKA Britanni Knight, the newest English Diva who was hot property at just twenty years old.

"Hey there gorgeous, come to see Lay?" she asked.

Josh knew that she and Raquel Diaz still loved petting him and treating him like a little boy. He didn't mind really, they meant well at any rate.

"Er..yeah, is she in there?" Josh asked, hoping it would be quick in case he got hauled in to be cooed over and petted by a woman ten years YOUNGER than him!

"Heya!" that familiar and beautiful Moroccan featured face appeared behind Paige as Layla appeared, squeezing through.

She looked amazing. Sporting her old black studded shorts look from 2010, she was now wearing a pink knee-brace on her repaired knee.

Josh grabbed his "big sister" and gave her a HUGE hug.

"Aww...hello, hello..." laughed Layla as the little man continued to squeeze her, "Hey, steady, don't break me before my bloody match!"

"Can't wait to see it," Josh said, offering his arm to Layla who took it, and they made their way down the corridor and out into the sunshine, "After training with you, it should be awesome."

He'd insisted on coming and training with her, wanting to be her guinea-pig and she'd definitely evolved her move set. Certainly a lot more echoes of a certain red-haired former Diva in Layla's offence now. Josh had insisted he should start teaching her a moonsault

"So, how's trouble?" Layla asked, "I had to laugh at his attempts to use Twitter!"

Josh rolled his eyes.

"Oh God, I think teaching my grandma to suck eggs is probably easier...he can tell you how to find hidden shortcuts on your Android but show him Twitter and he's fucking clueless!"

"Do you remember when Ted got his first smartphone?" asked Layla.

"Oh God...he was loving that...'make the thcreen go night nights tho your big ath duthen't butt dial me'," Josh said, in a rather exaggerated, deep-voiced impression of his best friend.

"I think he hates the fact that someone has to teach him," chuckled Layla, "He tried to give me the obligatory seminar when I last upgraded only to be disappointed when I'd already read up on it."


Okay, I'm gonna end the chapter here before it gets TOO long. A few things put in place here, had to make the most of the penultimate chapter! Next one...shall be the last :(

So, Alex has become what he hates...I think this happens to everyone in some way at some point, and it's also some progression.

I'm not sure if I'll be able to get another chapter up before April 1st (this one's taken long enough) so probably just after Mania. Can't believe we're here! Seems like only yesterday it was August and I was determined to bury the embarrassing Tom The OC/Cody travesty with something new!

See y'all after Mania and can't wait to hear your thoughts xxxx