AUTHOR'S NOTES:

Where does the time go?

This book is nearly done. I will begin posting a new one when this is fully out and I'm going back to working on LGNH, if anyone remembers that one. It's been WAY too long. Too many irons in the fire.

James' story is nearly done. An original about Tony and Dane is also nearly done. And if anyone would be interested in Milan and his fellow hunky waiters as they encounter a pair of thirsty zombies, that short is finished and available now on Amazon ~dot~ com. Search for Spunk Craving Zombies, or for me, John T. Liz has also included a link on her blog.

Huge giant smooch to my brilliant little twin sister for all her help.

Big hugs as always to my girls, Maureen, Rebecca, Kate and Miss Pauline. I hope you are all keeping warm in the deep winter.

The FF witch hunt may or may not be over. I will continue to post here and move to AO3 as and when I have to. When/if I am forced to complete the relocation you can find me at - archiveofourown ~dot~ org. Then just do a search for Jtrue.

Anyone who has not read the incredible Equal & Opposite, or is not now reading the brilliance that is Errors & Omissions, or Enticements & Obstructions, all by OhJasperMyJasper, should go do so right now. Here is how you find them since the FF witch hunt removed Liz from this site - ohjaspermyjasper ~dot~ blogspot ~dot~ com.

WARNING:

This story is intended for an adult audience! There is crude speech, hate speech and adult sexual subject matter of a homosexual nature. If you are under 18 stop reading now!

AU/AH/OC

All character names from Twilight belong to Stephenie Meyer. The similarities end there.


Chapter 55: A Taste of Life in New York

Garrett awoke when the alarm on his cell went off. He shut it off as quickly as he could reach it. The last thing he wanted to do was disturb Seth. Garrett took a moment to rub his face and stretch. If East Coast time felt early to him, it damn sure would to Seth.

Seth stirred slightly when Garrett reached for his cell. He was sound asleep, still fully on top of his husband. They didn't often sleep all night this way, but when they did, they both woke up very hard. If he could have reached his cock, Garrett might just be able to slip it back into Seth's ass. And he wouldn't take it out this time. That thought made his bone flex where it was trapped between their bodies. Seth gave a tiny whimper in his sleep. Had he felt it too and had the same unconscious thought?

Garrett ran his fingers through Seth's hair, over his back and down his ribs. And when he reached, and ran his hands over, the twin mounds of Seth's hard, little ass, his cock flexed again. Garrett soon realized he was not going to make it to work if he indulged himself. He took hold of Seth's ribs and carefully lifted him. He gently laid Seth in the bed beside him.

And in his sleep, Seth rolled onto his back. The big, dark python that lurked in their bed was fully awake and very inviting. Garrett could not resist and he didn't want to. He slid down in the bed and leaned on his elbow. He allowed only his tongue to come into contact with Seth and gave slow, sensual licks on Seth's frenulum. There was no reaction from the sleeping man, nor did Garrett expect one. He didn't want to wake Seth up, but he also wanted to do something he hadn't done last night. Garrett rose up on his hands and knees and got into position over Seth, between his legs. He held up the formidable, dark, Native penis and took it in his mouth. Garrett moved his tongue on Seth's cum tube as he sank down, taking more and more of it in his mouth. He relaxed his muscles as he worked the monster down his throat. Tears escaped Garrett's eyes from effort and joy as his nose and lips came into contact with trimmed, black pubes.

Seth was conscious on some level and gave a moan. His body knew the feel of his husband's loving throat. Garrett cupped Seth's balls as he swallowed around huge organ and held Seth down his throat for as long as he could. He slowly pulled up and kept his tongue in motion all along Seth's sensitive cum tube as he went. Garrett wrapped his hand around the python's neck as he finally pulled his mouth off of it. He swallowed again and shook his head. Garrett loved doing that and if he had the time this morning, he would suck Seth off. He gave Seth a wet kiss on his frenulum and climbed out of the bed, covering Seth up as he went.

It took awhile for his erection to subside in the shower that morning and Garrett briefly considered jacking off. But he wasn't a teenager. He was a married man. He also considered returning to the bed after his shower and jacking himself off in his husband's mouth. But he dismissed this as well. Seth was not a morning person. Garrett decided to let his beautiful, little husband sleep in peace.

He finished in the bathroom and dressed himself in the other suit he had brought. After a final primp in the dresser mirror, Garrett climbed partly onto the big bed to give his husband a kiss on his forehead. He closed their bedroom door again behind him as he ventured out into the house.

His briefcase was right where Seth had placed it last night in the breakfast room. The kitchen was dark and quiet. Garrett expected to find some indication of other life in the penthouse, but was surprised to find none. He wasn't the only man who had to go to work this morning.

Garrett left his briefcase on the table by the huge bouquet of flowers in the entry hall and headed back downstairs. The door to the other master bedroom was also closed. He rapped lightly.

"Boys?" Garrett called. He heard nothing and tried again. "Boys?"

And then he opened the door to find that Emmett and Nasir were up, in more ways than one.

"Mmm! Umm!" Emmett moaned as his body convulsed. His mouth was full of hard Arab cock while Nasir used his hand along with his mouth to suck and stroke Emmett through his orgasm. Garrett had discovered them at the conclusion of their 69.

Emmett drank his husband's cum only seconds before he blew out in Nasir's loving, sucking mouth. He finally pulled his mouth off Nasir and let himself flop back on the bed as Nasir slowly and gently continued to nurse on his thick, German cock.

"Ugh. Fuck," Emmett panted. "Morning, Garrett," he gave a wave.

"It certainly looks like a very good morning," Garrett smiled as he took a few steps into the room.

"Any morning I wake up beside my husband is a very good morning," Emmett stated as Nasir used his hand to milk him of every drop he had to give. "And any morning he wants to do this is even better."

Nasir was the one with his head toward the foot of the bed. He finally pulled his mouth off of his husband's big dick and looked back at Garrett. His eyes went wide with alarm when he saw that Garrett was dressed.

"Allah, what time is it?" Nasir scrambled to snatch up his cell.

"You have just enough to time to shower and dress before we are noticeably late," Garrett informed.

"Habibi, I love you!" Nasir hastened to kiss Emmett on his lips and the head of his cock before he flew off the bed and into the bathroom. Emmett made no attempt to cover himself. There was no point.

"I was going to make you guys breakfast," Emmett leaned up on his elbows.

"I'd say you already had your breakfast," Garrett smiled.

"Yeah!" Emmett made a point of licking his lips. "Arab juice. My favorite. Seth up?"

"He's up alright, but he's still asleep," Garrett answered. "With the time change, I expect he'll sleep till noon."

"I won't let him sleep till noon," Emmett promised. "And if you'll excuse me," Emmett rose from the bed and walked around it with his more than half hard mast swinging in front of him, "I'm going to have a quick shower with my husband."

"You do that," Garrett pulled his cell out of his pocket. "I'll call for our car."


They set out with the intention to walk the seventeen blocks, but found they didn't have warm enough clothes. The deficiencies in their wardrobes were cured with a quick cab ride down 5th Avenue to Urban Outfitters, and then only another two long, and two short blocks further, to the Forever 21, a block off Times Square. It was, as it happened, also seventeen blocks from Times Square to Nasir's office and, properly attired, they walked it.

Emmett wore a Gaultier white and blue striped, long sleeved, pullover shirt with a very wide neck, under a short sleeved dress shirt that was much too tight around his biceps, which he wore untucked and unbuttoned. With this he wore snug jeans and his beloved boots. For warmth, he had picked up a black leather jacket with a black fleece hoodie attached.

Seth's taste ran a bit more flamboyant. He picked up a charcoal gray, high neck sweatshirt with a zip closure and dramatic asymmetrical button collar. He wore this beneath a new suede blazer that was dyed to look like leopard skin. Seth wore his own very low rise black denim jeans. The high heeled boots he had worn on the plane were hardly conducive to walking around Manhattan, and he picked himself up a pair of white leather and silver metal hightops. Seth garnered a few glances as they walked, but nothing more than that.

"Oh, look. Here's Michael Kors," Seth pointed as they walked. "I could always use a new bag."

"What was that? I can't hear you over your jacket," Emmett tried to keep a straight face.

"I said, you're a big ox. Can you hear me now?" Seth barbed back. Before Emmett even had a chance to respond, Seth froze in his tracks and sucked a stricken sounding gasp through his teeth.

"What?" Emmett tried to follow Seth's gaze across the street.

"Look!" Seth pointed. "In the Barney's window!"

"What's in the Barney's window?" Emmett asked, hands in his jacket pockets.

"Oh my God, how do you not see it?! How the fuck do we get across the street? The traffic on Madison never stops!" Seth complained.

"At the light. C'mon," Emmett set off toward the nearby intersection.

Ten minutes later they stood outside one of the windows at Barney's.

"You like that?" Emmett asked.

"It's beautiful!" Seth was awestruck.

"It makes me think of my grandmother's drapes," Emmett shared.

"Oh! You wouldn't know a beautiful coat if it bit you in the ass!" Seth marched toward the entrance. Emmett just shook his head and followed Seth through the revolving door. By the time he caught up, Seth was already shedding his blazer to try on the long coat.

Emmett picked up the placard and read it aloud. "For his Fall twenty fifteen Men's Collection, themed 'The Morning After,' Dries van Noten showed luxe, louche pieces in earthy browns, golds, and burgundies, styled with elements of evening wear, paisley pajama prints, track pants and grab-it-and-go scarves. Styled with the rich, textured look of a carpet coat, Dries van Noten's overcoat is cut of wool-blend tapestry twill, woven in a traditional Indian floral motif. Tailored with a notched collar, single vent and button placket front, the topcoat is detailed with form-fitting darting, a breast pocket and two flap hand warmer pockets," he finished reading. "Yeah, it looks like an Indian carpet," Emmett assessed.

"It's wonderful!" Seth gushed.

"May I help you gentlemen?" and older sales clerk asked in a tone that made it clear he didn't think they could shop in this store.

"Yes!" Seth didn't hesitate. "I need this in a thirty six and I will need the sleeves tailored. Send someone to take my measurements and be quick, we're on a schedule."

"Did you note the price of that overcoat, Sir?" the clerk was not yet convinced.

"Yes I did. Do you take black American Express?" Seth countered.

"I'll be right back with a measuring tape, Sir," the clerk suddenly had a smile.

"I noted the price too. This coat is two grand," Emmett pointed out.

"Why didn't we come in here in the first place?" Seth wondered aloud as he looked around.

"Because one item in here is more expensive than everything we bought already. Except for the other jacket you got this morning," Emmett noted the exception.

"Just yesterday Gar asked me what I wanted for Christmas. Now I can show him," Seth reasoned.

"Isn't it meant to be a surprise?" Emmett asked.

"Wait till you see what I'm gonna get him!" Seth promised. "We're gonna stop in at Breguet before we meet Gar for lunch."

"Where's that?" Emmett enquired.

"Ha! Right in his building," Seth answered.

"What is that?" Emmett realized he didn't know that name at all.

"A jeweler. A fine Swiss jeweler to be precise," Seth informed.

The clerk returned and took Seth's measurements to tailor his tapestry coat. For an extra fee, it could be ready as quickly as tomorrow, and Seth happily paid it. Or rather charged it. Then, as quickly as they dashed in, with the additional receipts in Seth's bag, they were back out on Madison Avenue.

"So, isn't Nasir's building supposed to be around here?" Seth looked up.

"That's it," Emmett pointed to where they had been across the street. "That's the address."

"Well, where the hell's the entrance?" Seth gave voice to what they were both wondering. "We can't be supposed to go in through Michael Kors or the lamp gallery, or, whatever that is down there."

"Maybe around the side?" Emmett mused. "The light's changing. Let's cross."

The entrance to the office tower at 667 Madison Avenue was not, in fact, on Madison Avenue. Emmett and Seth walked down 61st Street past the Cole Haan store that occupied the 61st and Madison corner of the building. And there beyond, set back in a recessed arch two stories high, beneath beautiful, hanging, art deco lamps as big as a person, was the glass entrance with two revolving doors. Within was a cathedral marble lobby.

And security stopped them cold.


Joel Sirner sat at his L shaped desk outside his boss' office. He wore khakis with loafers and a button down shirt with a skinny tie under a sweater vest. His collar was not buttoned properly and his tie loose enough that the dark tee shirt he wore beneath was visible. No matter the time of year, it was never quite warm enough in this building. Joel's thick, black, untended eyebrows and unruly mop of natural curls gave him away for the straight boy he was. He wore thin, square framed, stylish glasses on his face as he sat and worked on a spreadsheet for his boss. The phone on his desk rang and Joel reached for it without even looking.

"Nasir al Qasimi's office, Joel speaking," he answered.

"This is lobby security. I have an Emmett McCarty and a Seth Clearwater here asking to see Mr. Qasimi," the voice came through the phone.

"Did you say Em...," Joel stopped himself as his eyes shifted quickly to the very nearby, open door to Nasir's office. "Say the names again."

"Emmett McCarty and Seth Clearwater," security repeated.

"Please send them right up," Joel knew Emmett was in town. Nasir had told him so yesterday. He knew he'd meet the man eventually. Joel deliberately kept this fact from his boss for the time being so that he could see the surprise on his face when he ushered his husband into his office.

"I'll be right back, Nasir," Joel called as he rose and walked away from his desk. He headed down the row of offices, through the conference rooms and cubicles, past the bathrooms and around finally to the elevators, just as the ding signalled the arrival of one.

Emmett and Seth stepped out onto the twenty third floor and were met by a smiling younger man. Joel recognized Emmett from the picture on Nasir's desk that he saw every day.

"Mr. McCarty, hi. I'm Joel," he stepped forward and offered his hand.

"Joel, hi!" Emmett took the smaller man's hand in both of his. "Nice to meet you at last."

"You too, Sir," Joel smiled.

"But you gotta call me Emmett," Emmett didn't need or want any 'Sir' or 'Mr. McCarty.'

"Okay, Emmett, I will. So nice to finally meet you," Joel smiled.

"Joel, my best friend, Seth," Emmett introduced.

"May I call you Seth?" Joel immediately offered his hand.

"You must," Seth answered as they shook.

"I'll show you to Mr. Al Qasimi's office. Come right this way," Joel turned and started off. "I'm sorry the first time we spoke was under such circumstances."

"Please," Emmett shrugged off his leather jacket as it was too warm for inside. "I'll never be able to thank you enough for calling me."

"Oh, of course. It's very nice to have him back. I'm glad that was resolved so quickly," Joel expressed.

"It didn't seem quick when we were in the middle of it," Seth stated.

"Huh, no," Emmett agreed.

"Here we are, right down here," Joel led them to what was obviously the corner office. He went to the doorway and leaned in. "Nasir, do you have time for a visitor or two?"

"I really do not, Joel," Nasir didn't even look up from his laptop, from where it was docked on his hutched credenza. But then he looked up with a furrowed brow. "Who is it?" Nasir asked. He didn't have visitors.

"I do think you'll want to make time for these visitors," Joel stepped out of the doorway. "Gentlemen," he gestured them inside.

Nasir's face lit up when Emmett and Seth walked into his office. "Habibi!" Nasir was up out of his chair in a flash to hug his husband. "You did not tell me you were coming by. Sethy," he let go of Emmett to pull Seth into a hug as well. "I like this jacket," Nasir ran his hands over Seth's Leopard looking suede shoulders. "Have you been shopping?"

"We have," Emmett confirmed. "And we wanted to see you before you head out for your power lunch."

"You have about twenty minutes, by the way," Joel reminded. "Can I bring you guys anything? Coffee, bottle of water?"

"Do not have the coffee," Nasir shook his head. "They do not know what is good coffee here."

"You don't like my coffee?!" Joel was crushed.

"They are from Seattle, Joel, and Emmett drinks it like a European," Nasir explained.

"Okay, yeah, the coffee isn't the greatest," Joel admitted. "Water?"

"That would be great, please," Emmett smiled.

"Come sit down," Nasir gestured to the low, black leather sofa by the windows.

"So, here's where the old furniture went," Emmett regarded the huge slab of a partner's sized desk and the great, tall, winged and tufted leather throne of a chair.

"Yes. Did I not tell you?" Nasir thought back.

"You probably did. I don't remember," Emmett admitted as he seated himself.

"What brings you to me?" Nasir sat down beside his husband. Emmett sat with his legs spread wide and Nasir just naturally rested his hand on Emmett's thigh.

"I've been wanting to see your office. I've just never been here during the week before," Emmett explained. "Nice to meet Joel, finally, too."

"I don't know when I ever saw such an adorable straight boy," Seth admitted. "I just want to pat him on his curly head. And his rump."

"There will be no patting my assistant on his rump," Nasir pointed at Seth.

"Here we go, guys," Joel returned at that moment with two cold bottles of water that he handed to Seth and Emmett.

"Thank you, Joel," Emmett smiled.

"This desk came from your place?" Seth put his hand on it. "It's nice. Have you done him on it yet?" he asked casually. No one was sure if he was speaking to Emmett or Nasir.

"No," Emmett and Nasir answered in unison.

"I'm sure I could find something I'd like to do with Joel if you two would like to fix that right now," Seth smiled.

"And I'm gonna leave you guys to chat and shut the door behind me," Joel hastily withdrew and shut the door.

"Sethy!" Nasir was mortified.

"Why do you have to do that?" Emmett asked.

"It's what I do," Seth grinned and spread his arms.

"I can dress him up," Emmett complained, "loudly."

"You wish you had a blazer like this," Seth sighed.

"Oh, yeah," Emmett nodded. "I really don't. Hey," he slipped his hand onto his husband's inner thigh, "what do you and Garrett want to do for dinner? We can cook for you again. I'll let Seth decide the menu tonight and we'll go shopping this afternoon."

"No," Nasir shook his head. "Tonight we are taking you out," he announced. "We have a pre theatre dinner at six thirty with Edward and Jasper, and then we have tickets for a show at eight. Joel has arranged all of it," Nasir gave a wave in the direction of the outer office.

"Oh, he did?" Emmett smiled at his husband.

"What are we seeing?" Seth asked.

"I am not sure. A funny play. Whatever Jasper decided," Nasir answered.

"Where are we eating?" Seth followed up.

"I do not yet know that either," Nasir furrowed his brow. It wasn't time yet for him to have asked Joel those details. Nasir rose from where he sat with his husband on the leather sofa, walked to his door and opened it. "Joel, we need you."

"Yes, Sirs?" Joel followed his boss back into the office.

"What are our plans this evening?" Nasir asked as he returned to Emmett's side.

"Ah," Joel nodded. "You have reservations at Bistro Milano at six thirty. It's just a few blocks from Rockefeller Plaza, about midway between there and the Helmsley Park Lane, and your friends will meet you there. It was Mr. Whitcock's choice and I think an excellent one."

"Did you say Whitcock?" Seth seized with much amusement.

"It's Whitlock," Emmett pointed out kindly.

"Oh, I'm so sorry," Joel was embarrassed.

"Don't be. That was priceless!" Seth smiled.

"Anyway, the restaurant is northern Italian cuisine, one of the best in the city I would say," Joel pressed on. "The crab Napoleon is not to be missed."

"Crab Napoleon?" Seth's whole being perked right up.

"If you like crab, you'll love it," Joel assured. "A limousine will be waiting to take you to the show after dinner. The show is at eight and the restaurant is aware that you have theatre tickets."

"What are we seeing?" Emmett asked.

"Mr. Whitlock," Joel stressed the second syllable of Jasper's last name, "chose Kinky Boots. Are you guys familiar with it?"

"No," Seth shook his head.

"Not at all," Emmett added. "We're so not theatre people."

"I think you'll enjoy this," Joel nodded. "It's a musical about a man who inherits his father's bankrupt shoe factory. Once he opens his mind, he partners with a drag queen to design and manufacture a line of sturdy heels for sturdy girls, called kinky boots. It's really fun and the music is great."

"Have you seen it?" Seth enquired.

"Twice. My girlfriend loves that show," Joel revealed. "Though, we were in the mezzanine. You have seats A, one through six, in the left box."

"We have a private box?!" Seth was thrilled by that idea.

"I guess it depends on how sold out the show gets. The box seats twelve or fourteen," Joel informed. "So you have about half of it, the front half. You may have it all to yourself."

"This should be fun, Emmy," Seth enthused. "Possibly quite fun."

"I know exactly what you're thinking," Emmett pointed at Seth.

"If you like seafood, you guys should try Atlantic Grill," Joel recommended. "There's one right near your place too," he gestured toward Nasir and Emmett, "at Seventy seventh on Third. If you want a big, North Atlantic lobster, and don't want to run up to Boston, or Maine, this is the place to get it. I know you guys must get very good salmon in Seattle, but the crispy skin Scottish salmon is to die for. The lobster bisque and southern style she-crab soup are both excellent as well."

"Sold!" Seth held up a hand.

"It sounds very good," Nasir agreed. "I wonder why Duane and Rodney never mentioned it," he mused aloud.

The phone on Joel's desk rang and he rushed out to get it.

"I think their tastes run more like mine," Emmett addressed his husband's thought.

"Rodney's does, that's for sure," Seth nodded.

"Sir," Joel hung in the doorway, "that was Cathy. Mr. Grayling is on his way down and will meet you in the lobby."

"Oh!" Nasir was quickly on his feet. "I cannot keep him waiting."

"We'll head out too," Emmett rose and picked up his leather jacket. "Where's your coat, Babe?"

"I do not have one," Nasir answered as they all walked out of his office. "I never brought one from home. I only jump in and out of the car."

"It's gonna get a whole lot colder here than this," Seth pointed out.

"I will have to pick one up," Nasir nodded.

"Joel, I'm so glad I finally got to meet you," Emmett offered his hand. "Nasi speaks very highly of you all the time."

"As he does of you," Joel smiled as they shook. "Very nice to meet you, Emmett."

"Joel," Seth offered his hand and just held Joel's hand when he took it. "One day, I will organize a party out here. My parties are legendary, if I do say so myself."

"I've heard," Joel nodded.

"Oh, good," Seth continued to hold Joel's hand. "Then you might already know that one of the things I love best, is to have cute straight boys to play with at my parties."

"Bye, Joel!" Emmett grabbed Seth and physically moved him away. He turned Seth and, with hands on his shoulders, walked him in the direction of the elevators.

"Think about it!" Seth called back.

"I'll be sure to bring my girlfriend!" Joel returned.

"Joel, I must apologize," Nasir spread his hands.

"Not at all, Sir," Joel gave a dismissive wave. "He's fun. Enjoy your lunch."

"Thank you," Nasir headed after Emmett and Seth.

They rode down to the lobby together and when Nasir discovered the GC was not down yet, Emmett and Seth gave him hugs and left him to wait there. Nasir was actually relieved of it. Better he should wait for the senior executive than the other way around. Until Mr. Grayling stepped out of the elevator in a black cashmere overcoat. The club was only on 5th Avenue with the entrance on 60th Street. He wasn't about to call for a car to go what amounted to two blocks.

Emmett and Seth hadn't made it a block when Emmett's phone chirped.

We are walking and
I am freezing to death!

"Seth! My poor baby!" he showed Seth his phone.

"Oh, shit. And he's particularly susceptible to the cold," Seth stated.

"My poor baby," Emmett repeated as he typed a return text.

I will bring you a coat

"Back to Barney's," Emmett declared and turned around. "Let's see if Droos Van Der Pootin makes a nice topcoat."

"Dries Van Noten," Seth corrected.

"Whoever the fuck," Emmett hadn't even tried to get the name of the designer right.

"How will you pick one out? If it fits you, it'll be way too big for him," Seth pointed out the obvious.

"Do you know what size suit your husband wears?" Emmett asked.

"Forty regular, when he buys off the rack, with some small tweaks," Seth answered.

"So you think it's possible that I know what size my husband wears?" Emmett posited.

"It's your taste level that concerns me," Seth quipped.

"Sorry, still can't hear you over your jacket," Emmett barbed back.

"Yuk, yuk," Seth dismissed as he followed Emmett into the revolving door.

They easily found a long and lean, black wool overcoat, as it happened, by the same designer. Emmett had them remove all the tags and refused the hanger and bag.

"Now, where is this club supposed to be?" Emmett asked as he and Seth returned to the street once more.

"Didn't Nasir say it was around the corner on Fifth?" Seth remembered. "If it was on Sixty First, that wouldn't be around the corner," he reasoned. "Let's try down here," Seth led the way toward 60th. Emmett carried his husband's new overcoat draped over his arm as they walked down to the end of the block and turned right toward the park. Half way down on the right they came to a motor courtyard blocked by grand gilt iron gates such as an Embassy or even Buckingham Palace might have. A long maroon canopy extended from the building within, through a side gate, and all the way to the curb.

And they ran into Duane rushing from the other direction. He carried his briefcase and wore a long, camel, cashmere overcoat. Beneath the open coat they could see he wore a very fine, slate gray suit.

"Hey, Emmett, Seth! You fellas thinkin' of joinin' us?" Duane had a hug for both of them. "I'm not sure you can get in a place like this without a suit and tie."

"Not at all, Duane," Emmett dismissed that notion. "We wouldn't want to crash your business lunch. I just wanted to give Nasi his coat."

"I'll take it in, check it with mine," Duane offered.

"That would be so great, Duane, thanks!" Emmett shifted the coat from his arm to Duane's.

"Love to chat with y'all, but I don't wanna keep my clients waiting. Say hi to Garrett!" Duane gave a wave and dashed into the courtyard.

"I will. Good luck!" Seth called with a wave. "There. Nasir knows he's loved."

"I sure hope so. Okay, let's head down Fifth," Emmett gestured and set off.

It was an easy walk down Fifth Avenue five short blocks to 55th Street. They passed Bergdorf Goodman, Louis Vuitton, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bvlgari, Tiffany & Co, Gucci, Prada, Armani and Harry Winston.

Seth's cell rang as they walked along and he pulled it out of his pocket. "Oh, it's Simon. Hi, Simon."

"Hey, Seth, you got a sec?" Simon asked.

"Sure," Seth was easy.

"Hi, Simon," Emmett called.

"Was that Emmett?" Simon asked.

"Yeah," Seth confirmed. "We're just walking down Fifth Avenue in New York."

"You guys are in New York?" Simon was not expecting that.

"I guess we did leave a little suddenly," Seth admitted. "We didn't get the chance to tell anyone."

"Huh, yeah," Emmett nodded to himself.

"What's up?" Seth asked.

"You remember that kid you asked the guys to keep an eye on at U-Dub? The cute, little, Swedish kid?" Simon reminded.

"Yes," Seth looked up at Emmett with concern etched in his face.

"No one has seen him in a while," Simon informed.

"How long of a while?" Seth asked.

"I asked them that an no one seems to be able to give me a definite answer. At least a couple of weeks," Simon relayed.

"Hmm," Seth considered.

"What is it?" Emmett saw and heard the concern.

"Okay, I'll deal with this when we get back on Monday," Seth decided. "Maybe they're just on vacation or something. Or maybe they're not. Tell the guys to keep watching and if he turns up, let me know."

"Will do," Simon agreed.

"Thanks, Simon," Seth expressed.

"Absolutely," Simon was only too happy to help.

"Say hi to Wayne," Seth directed.

"Give Garrett a slurp for me and bring me back a hot top!" Simon laughed at himself.

"I'll bring back a hot top alright. The same one I brought out here and he's all mine. Bye, Simon. Do the Good Work," Seth bid.

"You know I will. Bye, Seth," Simon rang off.

"What's up?" Emmett asked as Seth put his phone away.

"The guys we have keeping an eye on Krister on the campus, haven't seen him in a couple of weeks," Seth relayed.

"Oh, shit. I hope the kid's okay," Emmett shook his head.

"I'll look into it when we get home," Seth assured.

"Should we mention it to Edward?" Emmett asked.

"Certainly not in front of Jasper," Seth reasoned. "The last thing Jasper needs is to be reminded of fucking James. I think we should wait until we know more. This is a really happy time for them. I don't want to throw a shadow over it unnecessarily. Let's wait 'till we know more."

"Okay," Emmett agreed. "Yeah, good idea."

At the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 55th Street stood the St. Regis Hotel, the Peninsula Hotel, the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, and the building that housed, directly on the corner, Fifth Third Bank.

Seth led Emmett around the corner on 55th. Partway down, across from the St. Regis, was the Europa Café. It was a light and airy bakery known for it's exceptional soups, sandwiches and smoothies, in addition to traditional bakery items. There were a few tables and they were all occupied.

"You're right, Sweetie. This is a cute place," Emmett assessed as he followed Seth inside.

"This is a favorite," Seth headed for the counter. "We always stop in here at least once when we're in town."

"Like you come to New York all the time," Emmett scoffed.

Seth waved this point away like he was shooing a fly. "Hi," he greeted the young woman at the counter. "I need a smoked turkey and brie sandwich, cut in half, please, a cheddar broccoli soup, and a seafood bisque. And then whatever the giant behind me wants."

And to demonstrate his giantness, Emmett picked Seth up and set him down to his side.

"Hey!" Seth objected to being moved out of the way.

"Hi," Emmett smiled at the snickering girl. "I'd like to build my own pasta, please."

"Sure. What would you like?" she smiled up at him.

"Let's do the penne with the vodka sauce and, let's see," Emmett read the large, overhead menu board, "mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, artichoke hearts and mozzarella. Oh, and chicken."

"And that was all together, right?" she asked as she keyed in Emmett's order.

"Yes," Seth squeezed himself between Emmett and the counter, and nudged the bigger man back with his shoulder. "And three large sodas," he handed over his debit card.

"Here you are, Sir," she handed Seth the receipt and cups. "When your order is ready, we'll call your number at the next counter," she gestured.

"Thank you," Seth smiled and headed to the self serve soda fountain.

It didn't take long to assemble their order and Emmett took the bag. Back out on 55th, they walked down to the corner. The entrance to the bank was around on 5th.

"Why are we walking into the bank?" Emmett asked as he followed Seth through the glass doors with the big 5/3 symbol on them. He knew that Garrett's Seattle offices were not connected with the ground floor bank branch, but up on the 55th floor of Columbia Tower.

"We're going to take the stairs," Seth informed.

Within, the bank was as old fashioned as the turn of the previous century building it partly occupied, apart from the electronic surveillance and security in place. The gold leaf ceiling was three stories high. The tellers were behind brass cages and long, magnificent, carved mahogany counters. There were desks where consultants opened accounts and private offices for more sensitive matters and closings. A conference room and the Branch Manager's office were tucked into a corner. A sweeping marble staircase with iron railing led up to the mezzanine which, in this building, was the equivalent to the fourth floor.

"How can we help you gentlemen?" a guard at a tall desk just inside the doors asked. There was not one, nor two, but three armed and uniformed guards in the bank.

"We're heading up to the Private Client Group. Garrett Thompson is expecting us," Seth stated.

"Wait right here while I call up," the guard who was nearly Emmett's size and looked to be fresh out of the Marine Corps directed as he picked up the phone on his desk and dialed a five digit extension. "Your names?"

"Seth Clearwater and Emmett McCarty," Seth answered.

"Seth Clearwater and Emmett McCarty to see Garrett Thompson," he spoke into the phone and almost immediately hung up. "Right up those stairs," he pointed.

"Thank you," Seth smiled sweetly and led the way.

"It's nice to know he's well protected," Emmett commented as they started up.

"I know. That didn't bother me at all," Seth agreed.

The top of the stairs opened into a well appointed lounge with a receptionist seated at a small writing desk. The carpet was a deep, plush ruby flecked with gold. The walls were hunter green above the dark, rich wainscotting.

"Mr. Clearwater?" the receptionist rose to greet them with a smile.

"That's me," Seth answered.

"Mr. Thompson is expecting you. Right this way," she turned and headed into the maze of offices. "We don't have Mr. Thompson with us very often. Did he fly in especially for you? You're the only client's he's seen."

"Yes," Seth immediately seized on her misconception. "I insisted he fly in to meet with me personally. I've been tasked by my Tribal Council to invest considerable funds from all our casinos. This is Bruno," he gestured to Emmett as he spun his tale. "He can't talk," Seth quickly added to stop Emmett from contradicting him. "He's my bodyguard, mostly. Suffice it to say, he takes care of things. All kinds of things."

"Oh," the receptionist smile and nodded, clearly at a loss as to how to respond to that. "Well, here we are," she rapped on an already open office door. "Mr. Thompson, the clients you were expecting."

"Hey!" Garrett looked up from his laptop with a wide smile.

Just like the Fifth Third offices in Seattle reflected the sleek and modern building in which they were housed, so too did the Manhattan office. The small office Garrett had been given had an old fashioned desk which sat facing the side wall. As Garrett sat in the green leather chair at the desk, a window with open mini blinds on his left looked out into the offices, and a tall bay window on his right looked out over 55th Street and the entrance to the St. Regis.

"There you are," Garrett rose and came out from behind his guest office desk. "Thank you, Janet."

"Of course, Sir," Janet remained in the doorway. "May I bring your guests any...," she faltered as the man from the west coast office with the reputation of being able to land unlandable accounts and a Midas touch for making the rich richer, bent to kiss his client on the lips.

"We're fine. Thank you," Garrett gave her a smile.

"Just ring if you need anything," Janet withdrew.

"I got us our favorites," Seth informed as he took the bag from Emmett and began to unpack it.

"Good," Garrett went back to his side of the desk. "Looks like you boys have been out doing some shopping," he observed as both Emmett and Seth shed their jackets. "I like the blazer."

"You like it, Honey?" Seth laid it in his chair. "Wait till you see what else I found!"

"You're gonna love the Christmas present you got him," Emmett added as he pulled the other guest chair closer to the desk.

"Oh?" Garrett smiled as Seth passed his soup to him.

"Emmy got Nasir an overcoat too and we delivered it to him," Seth informed.

"They walked to lunch," Emmett added. "It's only like two blocks, but Nasi froze."

"I imagine he did," Garrett blew on a spoonful of his cheddar broccoli before he ate it. "And it's only going to get worse for him here."

"It gets colder here than it does at home?" Emmett asked.

"Oh yes," Garrett confirmed. "Not quite so Arctic as where the two of you are from originally, but damn near."

"I'm gonna get him some nice leather gloves and a scarf too," Emmett nodded to himself. "Like he has at home."

"Good idea," Garrett endorsed.

"So, we learned that we're going to dinner and a show this evening," Seth revealed.

"Ah," Garrett nodded. "We might have consulted you, but at least one of you was sleeping in this morning."

"Morning comes so fucking early here," Seth complained.

"Morning comes at the same time," Emmett pointed out. "You're just not used to it."

"Don't cloud the issue with facts," Seth quipped.

"What have you boys planned for the rest of the day?" Garrett enquired.

"I actually need to get some work done," Seth stated. "I'll be spending time with my laptop till you get home."

"I think I'll run to the market again," Emmett considered. "And I might go pick up a weber someplace. At least until I can get my outdoor kitchen built. I'd love to grill some steaks tomorrow."

"There's always Keens," Garrett reminded, "if you don't want to go to all that trouble yourself."

"Please, you know me better than that," Emmett countered. "I'd much rather stand around with a good beer and grill, and shoot the shit with the people I love most. There's nothing more relaxing to me."

"I'd like that," Seth nodded.

"Let's call that a plan then," Garrett agreed.

"If you can keep your co-conspirator from making any other plans, we'll do that tomorrow night," Emmett bargained.

"It is within my power," Garrett confirmed with a smile.

"That does sound like fun, actually," Seth agreed. "Get some Idaho bakers and if we can still get good sweet corn, get that too."

"I will," Emmett confirmed.

"And a good beer sounds really nice right now," Seth nodded to himself. "Or you could have a Spaten."

"I'll get you some Busch Ice or Milwaukee's Best, or some other piss," Emmett threatened. "See how funny you think you are then."

"You don't scare me," Seth dismissed.

"You'll see," Emmett promised.

"How is the pasta, Emmett?" Garrett asked.

"Really good. Delicious actually. Want a bite?" Emmett offered.

"It looks good. I've never gotten any of the pastas," Garrett used Emmett's fork as he was the only one who had one. "Mmm," he nodded. "That sauce is quite good."

"Yeah," Emmett nodded. "They could jar it."

"Want to try the sandwich?" Seth held up what little was left of his half.

"Turkey and brie?" Emmett wrinkled his nose.

"Smoked turkey and brie, and lettuce, and tomato, and honey mustard on sourdough baguette," Seth listed.

"Okay," Emmett took it and one bite consumed half of what remained. "Hmm," he nodded as he chewed. "You know, not bad. It doesn't sound like a good combination, but it is."

"Finish it. I'm full," Seth sat back in his chair and patted his stomach.

"Well, boys...," Garrett gathered up their trash and placed it in his office wastebasket.

"We'll let you get back to work, Honey," Seth rose and picked up his jacket. "Thank you for having lunch with us."

"Thank you for bringing it and having lunch with me," Garrett came around his desk again. He took Seth's face in his hands and gave him a soft, loving kiss on his lips.

"I love you too, Gar," Seth expressed.

"You too, c'mere," Garrett hooked a finger as Emmett slipped his jacket on. Emmett smiled as Garrett reached up to take his face in his hands as well. He leaned down to accept his kiss.

"Thank you," Garrett expressed.

"For what?" Emmett asked.

"You know for what," Garrett led them out of his temporary office.

"He doesn't want me traipsing all over the city by myself," Seth rightly concluded.

"Oh. Yeah, I'll keep him out of trouble," Emmett pledged. "Though it's not easy. We were in Nasi's office a whole twelve seconds before he sexually harassed Nasi's assistant."

"Oh dear," Garrett shook his head with a smile.

"Honey, he's adorable!" Seth defended.

"I'm sure he is," Garrett chuckled.

"He was adorable," Emmett countered. "Now he's just afraid."

A man who looked to be in his forties, in a suit that looked to be as expensive as Garrett's, walked toward them. "Garrett," he nodded officiously as he passed them.

"Graham," Garrett returned the acknowledgement.

"Ah," Seth could See.

Janet was at her writing desk in reception when Garrett walked his guests out.

"Thank you. I expect weekly reports and you can expect a deposit of a million dollars every friday from our casino profits. We do have to keep some operating cash on hand," Seth returned to his cover story. "Come along, Bruno," he started down the long stairs. Emmett looked back and gave Garrett a 'what can you do?' shrug as he followed. Garrett just laughed and went back to work. He was pleased that he gave nothing away about Edward's news during lunch. He needed to attend to a potential problem which he was loath to bring up to, not his biggest client, but certainly his favorite.

Emmett followed Seth down the long stairs into the branch and out onto the street. And they turned back into the very next door.

This long and narrow jewelry store had no jewelry counters. It was a sleek, clean, modern space in direct contrast to it's next door neighbor, with gleaming blue glass surfaces, blonde woods and mocha leather chairs.

"May I help you gentlemen?" an older, elegant woman in a teal skirt suit stood from behind the front desk. Her reading glasses hung around her neck on a jeweled chain and she wore her white hair up.

"You may. Show me cufflinks," Seth greeted.

"They're very expensive, Dear," she spoke kindly as if admonishing her own grandchild.

"Here we go again," Seth rolled his eyes. "Ma'am, I know I'm a Native American and don't look like I could shop here, but I have a black American Express card in my wallet with my name on it. May I shop here now?"

"Of course, Dear. I'm so sorry," she came out from behind the counter. "I'm Claudine. Welcome to Breguet."

"Seth," Seth shook her offered hand. "This is Emmett."

"Hi," Emmett smiled as he shook her hand as well.

"Now then, cufflinks, did you say? Come right with me and I'm sure we can find something to your liking," Claudine led them back to a private room with two mocha leather club chairs in front of a small desk. "Have a seat, Seth, Emmett. May I bring you some champagne?"

"Yes, please," Seth seated himself.

"I'll be right back with a few trays," Claudine excused herself. "Jamie," called as she walked out of the room.

"I can speak now?" Emmett asked once they were alone.

"Did you hear me introduce you as Bruno in here?" Seth answered Emmett's question with a question of his own.

"Gentlemen," Jamie appeared with two flutes and a bottle of chilled Ponsardin. He was a thin, young, bleach blonde twink in expensive clothes and beautiful watch and jewelry that he was clearly assigned to wear while at work. He filled the two crystal flutes and made sure his fingers brushed Emmett's as he handed the first one to him.

"Thank you," Emmett smiled.

"Thank you," Seth accepted his.

"Gentlemen," Jamie repeated and took the bottle with him as he withdrew. And made a point to smile over his shoulder most invitingly at Emmett as he went.

"Wipe off your boot," Seth took a sip.

"What? Is something on my boots?" Emmett leaned forward to look at his feet.

"His drool," Seth gave his punchline.

"Here we are, Seth," Claudine bore three trays of magnificent cufflinks with she placed on the desk as she seated herself in the armchair behind it. She put her reading glasses on her face, perched on the end of her nose. "Ah, yes. This is a very masculine set," Claudine pulled a pair from their slots in the first tray. "This is pure platinum with the industrial material center we call 'clou de Paris.' Very manly."

"No," Seth looked over the trays.

"Are you sure?" Claudine pressed. "If only he were wearing a shirt with a cuff. Shall I ask Jamie to step in and model them for you?"

"Oh!" Seth laughed. "They're not for him," he cocked a thumb at Emmett.

"No? Oh, I'm so sorry! I've done it again. I assumed you were together," Claudine apologized.

"You're only half wrong. These are for my husband, but this isn't him," Seth explained. "Those are really pretty," he pointed. "Show me those."

"You have excellent taste," Claudine attempted to butter Seth up. "These are eighteen carat yellow gold set with lapis lazuli and of course our signature B."

"What do you think, Emmy?" Seth handed one to Emmett.

"I think these are beautiful," Emmett looked it over.

"You have a jeweler on site?" Seth asked.

"At all times," Claudine assured.

"Then I want these, but I want a G instead of a B," Seth handed it back to her.

"The B is for Breguet," Claudine explained.

"And the G is for Garrett. Can you do a custom order for me or can't you?" Seth asked.

"Certainly, of course," Claudine confirmed. "The same script?"

"Yes, please," Seth smiled. "You're open tomorrow?"

"We are," Claudine confirmed.

"I need them by tomorrow. Can we do that?" Seth enquired.

"Let me just consult with the jeweler. I won't be a moment," Claudine gathered up her trays and headed back out.

"You really like 'em?" Seth asked once they were alone again.

"Sweetie, those are so Garrett. They're perfect," Emmett assured. "Especially with a gold G over the lapis."

"I think so too," Seth pulled out his wallet and produced his black metal charge card and his driver's license. "I hope they can do this. I suppose I can have them shipped," he mused aloud.

Claudine returned in only another moment. "We can have them for you tomorrow, but not until four, and we do close at six," she informed.

Seth just smiled and handed over his license and card.

"Wonderful," Claudine took them. "Come right up front with me and we'll finish your order."

Emmett and Seth followed and took their flutes with them.

The transaction completed, they caught a cab on 5th to take them home. Emmett saw Seth up to the apartment and walked the remaining block down 78th to Butterfield. He could have placed the grocery order online, but he wanted to pick out their ribeyes personally. He returned with his bags of groceries and found Seth had set himself up with his laptop on the living room floor. If it were warmer, he would have been outside. After the groceries were put away, Emmett headed out again in search of a grill.

Emmett had been gone a good while for the second time when Seth's cell rang. It was not Emmett's ring or Garrett's, and Seth furrowed his brow when he saw the number. He didn't know the number, but he recognized the area code. 605 was South Dakota. Seth just stared at the ringing phone for a long moment. Someone was calling him from the rez. It couldn't be his mother, that number he knew. This was someone else.

"Hello?" Seth answered tentatively.

"Hello. May I speak to Seth Clearwater, please?" the female voice started out slow, steady and calm. There could be no question this was one of his people.

"Speaking," Seth was only filled with more trepidation.

"Oh, Seth, I'm calling from John Yellowbird's office," she informed.

"Yes?" Seth pressed.

"John would like to talk to you," she added.

"What does President Yellowbird want with me?" Seth asked.

"Hold on, please," She bid and the dull silence of a old phone system filled the line. Seth stood up and walked to the windows of the French doors leading out onto the terrace while he waited. It wasn't long.

"Seth?" a strong male voice came on the line.

"Yes?" Seth raised his eyebrows alone in the Manhattan apartment.

"This is John Yellowbird," he stated.

"Yes, Sir?" Seth couldn't help but be respectful. This man was the democratically elected head of the Oglala Lakota Nation. Seth was a fully enrolled member of the tribe and could vote himself, though he never did.

"Seth, I wanted to call and thank you personally," John began.

"Thank me for what, Sir?" Seth was no less lost now than when the phone had still been ringing.

"For your endowment," John revealed.

"My endowment?" Seth was still lost.

"The Clearwater Endowment for Heating Oil is already helping our people," John stated. Love and appreciation were clear in his voice. "Those with the most need. I asked Tom Poorbear to administer it himself," he mentioned their Vice-President.

"The Clearwater Endowment for Heating Oil," Seth repeated. "Remind me again, if you would, Sir, how much I placed in the endowment."

"One hundred thousand dollars," John answered.

In Emmett and Nasir's New York living room, Seth closed his eyes and slowly nodded to himself. There could be only one source of this.

"It was very generous of you to do this for our people, Seth," John spoke from his heart.

"I love my people. Though, none of them love me," Seth spoke his true thoughts.

"That's not true. Our people love you," John countered. "The Council would like you to come home and take your rightful place among us. Yours is an important family. There has always been a Clearwater at the Sacred Council Fire."

"Is there a council fire?" Seth asked. "I thought we sat around a table, in a room, in a building, like white men."

"We do that too," John admitted.

"I see," Seth nodded to himself. "I'm gay, John, in case my mother did not share that with all of you. Just want to put that out there. Or perhaps a hundred thousand dollars is the price of getting everyone to overlook that."

"We don't have to talk about things like that," John attempted to deflect.

"Oh, I think we do," Seth disagreed. "I very much think we need to talk about it. You asked me to come home and sit among you at the Sacred Fire. There was a time I longed for nothing more. I wanted to do anything that I could to help my people. Let's assume for a moment that I do as you ask now, and go home, and sit among you. What of my husband? He's a white man, by the way. Would he be accepted? Would either of us?"

"Seth, I did not call to upset you. Merely to thank you and pass on the appreciation of our people," John spoke softly.

"Sir, I can tell that you speak from your heart with a straight tongue," Seth gave the man one of the highest compliments any Lakota could give another. "And I appreciate your call. I'm glad that what is done can help our people, but I must tell you, Sir, it is highly unlikely that I will return to our lands ever again."

"I am sorry to hear that," John expressed. "Your mother sits in your place for now, but someday she will join your ancestors. If you do not come home, your seat will fall to another," he outlined. It was clear that he did not want to see that happen, even with what Seth had just told him.

"And I'm very fine with that, Sir. Please do pass along my greetings to my mother when next you see her," Seth made a point not to use the words 'love,' 'affection,' or even 'fondness.'

"May Grandfather Spirit watch over and protect you," John wished.

"You too," Seth returned stupidly. He squeezed his eyes shut and shook his head at how lame that just sounded.

"Good bye, Seth," John finished and hung up.

Seth lowered the phone and just stared at it with an open mouth. He had no idea how long he stood there doing that and only looked up when the front door opened and Emmett returned for the second time.

"Success, Sweetie! Grill will be delivered in the morning and so will a full tank of gas. And just wait till you see what else is coming! So, tomorrow night, steak!" Emmett shrugged out of his leather jacket. "And I was thinking we could do some teriyaki scallops like you like," he caught sight of the look on his best friend's face where Seth stood in the living room. "What?"

"You're not gonna believe this shit," Seth began.


Chaiyo had a black, stretch Town Car limousine and while he didn't need it for this run, there was not time in between to exchange a sedan for it, before he did. He picked up Garrett first. Nasir's office was then on the way home. They took Madison straight up as Nasir was waiting on on the curb to make navigation the maze of one way streets unnecessary. And it would save them that much time in getting home to their men.

"Garrett," Nasir greeted as he slid into the backseat with him. "Do you like my new coat?"

"Very nice," Garrett answered as their driver steered them into traffic. "And delivered by a big, strapping, hot, German, so the story goes."

"I did not see it, but I am told this also," Nasir smiled. "I must think of some way to thank him."

"I'm confident you'll come up with something," Garrett nodded. In the front seat, Chaiyo couldn't suppress his snicker.

They cut over from Madison to Park at 72nd Street and soon Chaiyo pulled up to the curb at their canopied door.

"Thank you, Chaiyo," Nasir opened his own door. "See you in half an hour."

"Okay," Chaiyo gave a wave from the wheel.

"Evening, Mr. Al Qasimi, Mr. Thompson," Vlad greeted them as he held the door.

"Good evening, Vlad," Nasir smiled. He and Garrett were both in good spirits at the prospect of spending an enjoyable evening out on the town with their husbands.

Until they reached the 17th floor. Nasir and Garrett both kicked off their shoes and Nasir opened the front door.

Seth stood in the middle of the entry hall, arms folded across his chest and a glare on his face. Emmett walked in from the direction of the kitchen and just paused in the wide archway into the dining room.

"Uh, oh," Nasir read the situation for what it was. "One of us is in trouble."

"Sweetness?" Garrett set down his briefcase as Nasir did the same.

"Don't you 'sweetness' me," Seth was deliberately contrary.

"I think it is you," Nasir told Garrett the obvious. Garrett surmised that his husband's displeasure had to do with Edward and Jasper's business and the purchase of their new home. Of course Seth found out about it and Garrett prepared his excuses.

"The Clearwater Endowment for Heating Oil?" Seth asked.

"Oh," Garrett hadn't anticipated this at all. He exchanged a glance with Nasir. "That."

"Are you in on this too?" nothing escaped Seth's scrutiny. "Of course you are."

"Nasi?" Emmett asked.

"It seemed, I mean, seems," Nasir corrected himself, "like such a worthy cause."

"Why didn't you say anything?" Emmett pressed, though made a point to keep his voice neutral.

"I did not want you to tell Sethy," Nasir answered in a diminishing voice.

"What is this keep shit from Seth shit?" Seth demanded.

"How did you find out?" Garrett enquired.

"Don't you dare ask me questions!" Seth barked. "If you must know, the President of my nation called me on my cell to thank me personally, no less!"

"Ah," Garrett nodded to himself. "That was very thoughtful of him."

"Wasn't it just?!" Seth let his fury show.

"Seth," Garrett took a step closer to his fuming husband. "I understand why you're angry with me. I wanted to do something to help your people. I was afraid to say anything because I thought you might object. When I read how many people freeze to death every winter..."

"Do you know why some people freeze to death? Did it occur to you that there might be a reason for that?!" Seth gave not an inch.

"What?" Garrett was dismayed at Seth's words. A reason for people to freeze to death? That didn't make any sense to Garrett. It could only be a horrible tragedy. Couldn't it?

"Did you check the ages of the people who froze to death?" Seth demanded. "Our elderly are revered for their knowledge and experience and wisdom. We very much value them. But when they are very old and can no longer contribute in any way, many of them choose to go out and sit in the middle of the harsh winter."

"What?!" Garrett was aghast.

"In a car that doesn't run, typically. In the Before Time, when we were still nomadic, when the village was struck, they would choose to be left behind," Seth elaborated.

"But...," Garrett began to protest.

"It is considered an incredible insult to their dignity to try to stop them or dissuade them when they have made this decision, I might point out," Seth quickly added. "Now, I'm not going to say there isn't a need," he held up a hand, "a great need. The poverty there is extreme, as you have all seen for yourselves."

"Oh, my God!" Garrett quickly snatched Seth into his arms. "I had no idea such a thing went on! Please, please promise me you will never do something like that!"

"What?" Seth did not expect this reaction. "Oh, well... Let me go! I'm still mad at you!"

"I don't care," Garrett held Seth in one arm with his other hand on the back of Seth's head. "Seth, I had no idea!"

"Of course you didn't!" Seth pushed Garrett away and instantly felt bad about doing so. "You're looking at my people through the lens of your white culture and experiences," he added and felt bad about that too. "Which, I suppose, isn't your fault," Seth let the wind out of his sails and the dejected look on his husband's face broke his heart. "C'mere, Honey," he reached for Garrett and they took each other in their arms. "I'm sorry I pushed you away."

"It hurts when you push me away," Garrett admitted softly as he rested his chin on the top of his husband's head and squeezed his eyes shut.

"I'm sorry," Seth repeated. "I shouldn't have done that. I don't ever want to do that. I love you, Gar."

"I love you, Seth," Garrett held the man he loved tightly. "I shouldn't have set up that fund behind your back."

"It was a good and noble thing to do. And I would have tried to stop you," Seth admitted. He held his husband with his arms inside Garrett's suit jacket. "So, President Yellowbird asked me to come home and take my father's seat on the Council. And, of course, I agreed. You'll be the only white man in town. I hope that's okay, Honey. Except for when you two come to visit. We can live with the witch who gave birth to me. Sound good? We move next week."

"What would a wealth manager do in Pine Ridge?" Garrett asked.

"Same thing all the good people of beautiful Pine Ridge do. Drink yourself stupid every day," Seth answered.

The house phone rang and Emmett headed for the kitchen to answer it. Nasir took off his overcoat at last and hung it up with Emmett's leather in the entry hall closet.

"Should we change, Garrett, or just take off our ties?" Nasir asked as he loosened his and unbuttoned the top button of his dress shirt.

Emmett returned from the kitchen and though he did not speak, the look on his face spoke volumes.

"Emmy?" Seth was immediately concerned.

"Habibi, what is it?" Nasir moved to his side.

"Your brother is here," Emmett revealed.

"La, Allah! Please tell me you had Vlad send him away!" Nasir gripped Emmett's arms. "Please!"

"He's on his way up," Emmett remained deliberately calm.

"Emmett!" Nasir put a hand on top of his head. His face and voice fully gave away his panic. "Why would you do that?!"

"I have to wonder why he's here, now," Emmett explained. "Don't you?"

"I do not wonder! I know!" Nasir exclaimed. And jumped at the knock on the door. "La! Send him away!" he grabbed Emmett's arm again as Emmett moved toward the door.

"Nasi, Babe, he can't hurt you. Okay?" Emmett took hold of his husband's shoulders and took a moment to look into his frightened eyes. It would be okay. He would make sure of it. Garrett put a hand on Nasir's back as he and Seth moved to stand beside him in solidarity. Emmett calmly let his husband go and turned toward the door. He opened it and stepped back.

"Hello, Kasim. Please come in," Emmett made a point to be polite and remain non threatening.

"So, you are still here," Kasim nodded to Emmett as he walked into the penthouse. He wore a warm wool suit and dress shirt without a tie. "I saw my brother with another faggot and I thought you had been replaced."

"Do you mean me? Are you having Nasir watched?" Garrett asked with a furrowed brow.

"What in hell is this?" Kasim ignored Garrett and gestured toward Seth. "So many faggots for you in your love nest, Nasir," he finally addressed his brother.

"Kasim," Emmett began in a smooth, calm voice, "remain civil and respectful, or I will show you out, much as I did the last time."

"You do not scare me," Kasim gave a dismissive wave.

"Every time you look in the mirror should remind you otherwise," Seth quipped.

"What beautiful long hair the little woman faggot has," Kasim observed caustically. "Do you cry out in a womanly voice when you are fucked in your faggot pussy?"

"Kasim!" Emmett became forceful and firm.

Everyone was aware of the fists that curled into powerful weapons at Emmett's sides.

"We talked about this once before, you and I. Hate words in this house will not be tolerated," Emmett seethed. "I will break your fucking nose again. Believe it."

"What do you want, Kasim?!" Nasir found his voice.

Kasim continued to look at Emmett for a moment. He well knew the man could, and undoubtedly would, make good on his threat. The bigger man had once before. Kasim finally turned toward his brother. "I wanted to look into your filthy, disgusting, faggot face when I told you that you won," he calmly spewed his venom. "I do not know how you did it, but you won. Now, short of kidnapping you, which would be costly and difficult, I will never get you to come home, and have the joy of taking you into the desert myself."

"What?" Emmett spoke quietly as the truth became clear. "You were behind this!" he grabbed fistfuls of Kasim's suit jacket and the shirt beneath it, and pulled him close. "You tried to have Nasi deported! AGAIN?!" Emmett shook Kasim like a ragdoll.

"Let go of me, you filthy faggot!" Kasim struggled against the fists and arms that threatened to lift him right off his toes.

"Oh, I would love nothing more," Emmett turned and all but carried Kasim along with him as he headed into the living room. Nasir, Garrett and Seth watched Nasir's hateful brother dance alongside Emmett.

Right to the French doors to the terrace.

Realization and horror dawned on Seth's face first. "Emmy!" he shrieked.

"Emmett!" Garrett shouted.

"La!" Nasir joined as all three of them burst from their inaction and ran.

But Emmett already had the French doors open and had taken Kasim outside. He walked Kasim to the half wall that overlooked 78th Street.

"What are you doing?!" Kasim started to panic as Emmett leaned him over it. He clutched to the powerful hands that held his clothes.

"I'm going to let you go, Kasim," Emmett stated.

"Emmy, no!" Seth was right behind him.

"Emmett, don't do it. He's not worth it," Garrett attempted to reason.

"He's not worth it, but so very deserving," Emmett answered Garrett while he continued to look into Kasim's eyes. "I have heard threats to take the man I love into the desert for the very, fucking, last, time," he seethed. "If I ever see you again, if Nasi ever sees you again, hears your voice, or even hears your name, I will kill you," Emmett promised.

"You do...," Kasim began.

"Shut up!" Emmett shook him violently. "You just listen! If any harm ever comes to my husband, here, at home, anywhere, ever, I will hunt you down and kill you like the miserable fuck you are. I have been to your house in Sharjah. I know where you live. I will have nothing to lose. I will hunt you down and kill you with my bare hands. Is any of this unclear to you?"

Kasim just stared back defiantly.

"Is any," Emmett gave the smaller man a hard shake with each emphasised word. "Of this. Unclear. To you?!"

"No!" Kasim gave in. "No."

"And now," Emmett pulled Kasim back toward the still open French doors, "I will show you out the easy way."

Seth, Garrett and Nasir jumped out of his way. Seth found it very telling that Kasim was unable to meet the gaze of the brother he came here to intimidate.

"If you ever come back here, do not doubt that I will throw you over the side," Emmett threatened as they entered the living room. "So despondent over your brother being gay that you jumped. And everyone who ever met you will thank me."

Seth thought quickly and ran past them to make sure the elevator was there and ready. They were lucky in that it was still on this floor and Emmett walked Kasim straight into it. Seth put his hands on both Nasir and Garrett's chests to stop them from following and the elevator doors closed.

As the elevator descended, Kasim opened his mouth to speak and was immediately shaken into silence again.

"Not one word!" Emmett commanded. "Not one more word out of you, ever! Not ever again! I could have loved you like a brother, Kasim, like Nasi is with my brother, but now, if you utter one more word, I will beat you in the street. I will pound you through the mother fucking pavement in the middle of the mother fucking street, and I don't care who fucking sees it!"

The elevator arrived in the lobby and Emmett all but carried Kasim by the grip on his clothes, out of the elevator. Vlad was instantly out from behind his desk.

"I will take out trash for you, Mr. McCarty," the very nearly Emmett sized Russian offered.

"I got it, Vlad, thanks," Emmett acknowledged. "Though, if you should ever see this man on this property again, I want him reported for trespassing."

"Is done," Vlad assured.

"Now, Kasim," Emmett let go of him at the building door and made a point to smooth his clothing. "Do not darken my door again. And I really mean it this time. I'm done with you," he paused to point a finger in Kasim's face. "You know what will happen if I so much as lay eyes on you again," Emmett opened the large bronze door and shoved Kasim out of the building.

Vlad moved to stand at the door and watch through the glass. "He will not return," Vlad pledged.

"I know he won't," Emmett folded his arms over his chest as he stood beside the Russian. The two big, powerful sentinels protected the building side by side.


Garrett sat beside Nasir on one of the custom living room sofas, a supportive hand on Nasir's back. Seth returned with a tumbler of scotch on ice for Nasir's nerves.

"Thank you, Sethy," Nasir took the glass with a slightly unsteady hand and took a gulp.

"Things make sense now," Seth spoke softly as he knelt at Nasir's feet. "Nasir, did you know that your brother was behind your being taken into detention?" he put his hands on Nasir's knees.

"Yes," Nasir admitted.

"Why didn't you say anything?" Garrett asked.

"It would have only worried Emmett more," Nasir shook his head.

"It might have helped..., well," Garrett changed tack as he rubbed Nasir's back. "It's behind us now."

They all looked as the front door opened and Emmett returned. Emmett rushed to his husband's side. He sat down beside Nasir and put his arms around him. Nasir closed his eyes and relished the comfort of his husband's strong arms.

"I thought you were going to kill him," Nasir quietly confessed.

"I wanted him to think so," Emmett stated. "I needed to speak his language."

"Is he gone?" Nasir asked.

"If he even attempts to set foot in this building again, Vlad will report him for trespassing," Emmett assured. He held Nasir's head to his own and gently moved his fingers in Nasir's hair.

The phones in Nasir and Seth's pockets both chirped with an incoming text at the same time.

"Weird," Seth commented as they pulled their cells out.

"Chaiyo is waiting downstairs," Nasir informed.

"It's Edward," Seth began. "Might be late to dinner. Don't wait for us. We bought a house! Can't wait to tell you guys about it," he read. "Yay!" he bounced in place.

"That's great news," Emmett wore a broad smile.

Seth glanced at his husband. He didn't need his powers to know that, if Edward and Jasper had progressed to the stage where they could report a house as having been bought, at least some communication had to have taken place with their banker. Who stood in this room. And hadn't said anything.

"You knew," Seth stated and could See the truth of it.

"I met with Edward and Jasper after lunch to discuss their mortgage," Garrett maintained the appearance of calm. Seth narrowed his eyes at him and Garrett's stomach knotted. The very last thing he wanted was another confrontation with the man he loved. He didn't even realize that he held his breath as Seth considered.

"Well," Seth's countenance visibly softened. "You could hardly have told me with the greeting I gave you earlier. Or since then. Plus, I'm sure Edward swore you to secrecy," he gave a sweeping gesture. "It's like he thinks everything he does is some kind of National Security issue. Or that he can keep things from me."

Garrett exhaled and inclined his head in affirmation.

"I suppose I understand why they would want to share this news themselves, and be the ones to give the details. Are we still going out? Can we have a pleasant evening after this?" Seth changed subjects in his usual mercurial fashion.

"If you don't want to go, Babe, I'll stay with you," Emmett offered. "I didn't come to New York to see a show, I came to be with you."

"La," Nasir pulled back and shook his head. "No," he repeated in English. "We are going to go out and we are going to have a pleasant evening. He has no power over me."

"Okay," Seth patted Nasir and Garrett's knees as he rose, "you two go change into something more comfortable real quick so we can go."

"Shall we just exchange our pants for jeans?" Garrett offered as he and Nasir stood as well.

"No underwear," Seth admonished with a finger.

"We would never," Garrett smiled.

"And lose those ties," Seth directed.

Emmett and Seth walked with their men as far as the stairs and watched them descend to the lower level.

Seth took Emmett's hand and looked up at him. "I know you meant it," he spoke quietly.

"I absolutely did," Emmett nodded. "I never thought that I would ever be capable of something like that. And I don't know how to feel. I feel really shitty actually."

"Please don't feel bad. You protect us all," Seth stated.

"But should I kill to do it?" Emmett posited. "That's so wrong! I can't be that person. I can't do that. Seth, when he said he wanted to take Nasi into the desert again...," Emmett shook his head. "I have heard that so much these last few weeks. Something inside me just snapped. When he said that, I wanted to kill him," Emmett looked down at Seth with desperate eyes.

"It's okay, Emmy," Seth took Emmett's hand in both of his.

"It's not okay! That's never okay!" Emmett countered.

"But you didn't," Seth stressed the point. "You handled it brilliantly. Nasir's brother is a murderous fuck and you needed to speak to him in a language he could understand. When you discovered Jared fucking and choking me, did you want to kill him?"

"No," Emmett admitted. "My only thought was to stop him, to protect you."

"Exactly, and do you want me to explain the difference?" Seth offered and continued anyway. "When you saw Jared trying to strangle me, the danger was real and present and immediate. All you had to do was stop him. Kasim wasn't here attacking anyone. He was making threats and promises of harm. It's not enough to stop him, you have to intimidate him enough to last forever. And I believe you did."

"I just hope he goes away and never comes the fuck back," Emmett expressed.

"As do we all, Emmy," Seth agreed and Nasir and Garrett came back up the steps. "As do we all."

"What are you boys talking about?" Garrett asked.

"How nice you look in these jeans!" Seth stepped to his husband and ran his hand over his sleeping property in the front of Garrett's pants.

"Somehow I doubt that," Garrett smiled and ran his hands over Seth's shoulders. Beside them Emmett and Nasir shared a tight and silent hug.

"Okay, we have a schedule," Seth orchestrated. "Nasir, do you have the tickets or do we pick them up there?"

"They are waiting for us at the theatre," Nasir let Emmett go and moved to his briefcase, "but I do need to grab my wallet."

"And your new coat," Emmett opened the small entry hall closet and pulled out Nasir's, Seth's and his. "You going to be alright, Garrett?"

"I'll be fine as long as we don't stand around outside too long," Garrett answered.

"Okay, you hot studs. Take us out," Seth bid.

"Right this way," Garrett opened the front door.

They called for the elevator while they put on their shoes and they descended to the lobby.

"Was the trash picked up, Vlad?" Emmett asked as they headed for the door.

"Car was waiting across street and take trash away," Vlad held open the door for them.

"And good riddance," Seth added.

"Have good evening," Vlad bid with a smile.

"Thanks, Vlad," Emmett patted his shoulder as he passed.

Chaiyo opened the rear door of their waiting limousine. "Gentlemen."

"We are going to Bistro Milano, Chaiyo," Nasir informed. "You know it?"

"Down on Fifty Fifth? Sure do," Chaiyo assured. "I'll take Fifth."

"Is there anything that you don't know where it is?" Emmett smiled.

"I hear there's a nice, big park somewhere in this city, but I've never found it," Chaiyo gave a shrug.

"Smartass," Emmett laughed as he joined Seth and Garrett in the rear of the long car. Nasir slid onto the rear seat with him and Chaiyo shut them in.

Their driver quickly took the wheel and pulled away from the curb. As 78th Street was one way in the wrong direction, Chaiyo drove up to 79th and took that over to 5th Avenue. It was then a pleasant ride along the park toward Midtown.

Seth's cell chirped again and he pulled it out to read another text.

Order us the
ossobuco and the
veal ravioli
We'll join you
as fast as we can

"Jasper wants us to order for them," Seth announced.

They ran out of park at 59th Street and, just four blocks further, at the same intersection where Chaiyo had picked up Garrett, they turned right onto 55th.

"This area looks familiar," Emmett commented from where he sat holding his husband's hand.

"I should say," Garrett nodded.

Past the five star Peninsula Hotel, the street was uninteresting and seemed to be lined with nothing but shoe repair shops. As they neared 6th Avenue more eateries appeared.

"Hey, if you guys ever want a great burger," Chaiyo spoke up and pointed out the right side, "Five Guys Burgers and Fries is the best burger joint in the city."

"I thought you didn't eat meat," Emmett recalled.

"I don't, but I know you guys do!" Chaiyo looked in his rearview mirror with a wide grin.

"How about Asian tonight, Honey?" Seth asked from where he sat right behind the straight driver.

"And here we are," Chaiyo pulled to the left curb just short of 6th Avenue. "Bistro Milano. Too late to change your minds now!" he jumped out and opened the rear driver's side door.

"Pick us up at seven forty five, please, Chaiyo," Nasir instructed as he followed Emmett out of the car.

"Yes, Sir. I'll be right back here," Chaiyo gave an affirming nod. "Enjoy your dinner," he bid as Seth and Garrett emerged as well.

"Thank you," Seth acknowledged. "Oh, this place is cute. Looks like they do outside seating in warmer weather," he gestured to the the tables and chairs.

"I think Joel said they still do at lunchtime," Nasir mentioned.

"They have a few heaters," Emmett noticed the tall propane powered heat towers.

"I for one, am glad we're dining inside," Garrett urged them inside.

"Me too, Garrett," Nasir agreed as Emmett pulled open the door.

"Good evening, gentlemen," the hostess in a smart gray skirt suit greeted them. "Do you have a reservation?"

"We do. Qasimi," Nasir answered.

"Your party is not all here?" she observed.

"We can't wait as we have theatre tickets," Garrett stated. "We'll order for them. They should be along shortly."

"Right this way," She smiled and headed into the restaurant.

The well appointed dining room was set with white linens. Large, brown wood framed mirrors on the walls made the place feel larger than it was. All of the chairs were the same chocolate brown as the mirror frames and the banquettes that lined two walls, were tan and white leather. Tables had been put together along one of the banquettes to seat six, three on each side.

"Uh, oh. Should we sit across from each other?" Seth proposed.

"You guys can sit together," Emmett gestured toward the banquette. "I'll sit across from you, Babe," he pulled out the left chair. Nasir slid in beside Garrett and Seth slid in on the other side. Emmett and Nasir both shed their shoes with their jackets. Both men wore socks and Emmett did not hesitate to gather his husband's feet with his own. He didn't need to sit next to him to be able to do that. In fact, it was easier when he didn't.

"Evening, gentlemen," a handsome Nordic looking waiter appeared at their side. "I'm Leon and I'll be taking care of you this evening," he passed out menus. "I understand we're on a schedule?"

"We are," Garrett confirmed.

"I'll give you just a quick minute with the menu then," Leon stated. "Here is our wine list," he presented a last leather bound portfolio. "We also have a fine selection of scotch whiskies."

"Oh, you do?" Nasir's ears perked up.

"We have all the Johnnies, even Blue," Leon informed. "Though I have to say Gold is my personal favorite."

"I do not drink blended scotch," Nasir shook his head.

"We have quite a few single malts as well," Leon was not offended. "Macallan, Glenmorangie, Glenlivet..."

"Do you have Laphroaig by any chance?" Nasir asked.

"Ten year," Leon nodded.

"A double on the rocks," Nasir ordered.

"Yes, Sir. And what can I bring from the bar for you gentlemen?" Leon enquired.

"I don't want beer with Italian. Find us a wine, Garrett," Emmett bid.

"Would you just start us off with a bottle of your best prosecco while I peruse the list," Garrett ordered.

"Okay. For all three of you?" Leon clarified.

"Please," Seth nodded.

"Be right back," Leon headed for the bar.

"The nerve of that man suggesting you should drink blended scotch!" Seth gave faux incredulity.

"I should slap him in his face," Nasir played along.

"No wonder you two are so perfect for each other. The beer snob and the scotch snob," Seth quipped.

"We prefer the word connoisseur," Nasir smiled.

"You're snobs and you know it," Seth pointed at them. "And where's dad when we need him?"

"He doesn't drink blended scotch either," Garrett read his menu. "Do we want the crab Napoleon?"

"You have to ask?" Seth picked up his menu for the first time. "Oh, check out the saffron lemon risotto with scallops."

"We're going to have a good steak tomorrow, so...," Emmett thought out loud. "Maybe the veal. Yeah, the veal," he nodded and closed his menu as he decided.

"Baby cow today. Grown up cow tomorrow?" Seth pointed out.

"Yeah, I gotta work myself up," Emmett gave a grin.

"Oh, here's one with black tagliolini," Seth kept reading. "That's when it's made with, um," he pinched his fingers together.

"Squid ink, typically," Garrett answered.

"Sold," Seth closed his menu.

"Here we are, guys," Leon returned. He served Nasir first and placed flutes for the rest of them. "Have we had a chance to look over the menu?" Leon asked as he opened and poured their sparkling wine.

"I'll have the black pasta with the seafood, please," Seth spoke up.

"Yes, Sir," Leon nodded.

"The sea bass and a crab Napoleon," Garrett ordered.

"And for my scotch drinker?" Leon prompted.

"The rack of lamb, please. And please bring an antipasto platter for the table," Nasir directed.

"And for you, Sir?" Leon finished with Emmett.

"The veal with prosciutto and mashed potatoes, please," Emmett handed over his menu.

"And I need to order for our missing friends," Seth pulled out his cell and called up Jasper's text. "An ossobuco and a veal ravioli."

"Okay, so we have tagliolini with calamari, clams, mussels, scallops and shrimp, grilled Mediterranean sea bass with green and yellow squash and asparagus, New Zealand rack of lamb with fingerling potatoes and green beans," Leon listed perfectly from memory as he went around the table, "veal lined with prosciutto, with garlic mashed potatoes and broccoli rabe, veal ossobuco with saffron risotto, and finally veal ravioli with truffle mushroom sauce. And I know we're watching the clock. Do we want the crab Napoleon and antipasto first or all together?"

"Dinner together, but otherwise as things come out is fine," Garrett answered from where he still looked over the wine list.

"And take this and put it in your pocket," Nasir handed over his Centurion Card, "so that he will not attempt to pay for dinner."

"Nasir," Garrett protested with a hand on Nasir's arm, "you bought the theatre tickets."

"And now I am buying dinner," Nasir stated.

"Yes, Sir. I'll get your orders right in," Leon smiled and rushed away.

"You flew out here for me. It is the least I can do," Nasir expressed.

"We flew out here because we love you and we were deeply concerned for you," Garrett stated.

"Yeah!" Seth agreed with a pointed finger.

"I love you too. You are my family," Nasir put a hand on Garrett's leg.

"And don't forget it!" Seth had to have the last word. "So, Honey, who's Graham? Is he the head of the New York office?"

"He is, yes," Garrett confirmed. "Did I mention him?"

"You didn't need to. He's threatened by you," Seth relayed the observation he had made earlier in the day.

"Is he?" Garrett asked.

"Should he be?" Seth answered the question with a question.

"Perhaps so," Garrett conceded. "He did openly wonder what I was doing here and now that I have been, and not in meetings all day, but in a position to just watch how his office works, I can see some things that definitely need to change."

"Is he not a good wealth manager, or an organization manager?" Nasir astutely wondered.

"I'm beginning to think both," Garrett admitted.

"He has neither your wisdom or charisma," Seth stated.

"How do you know that?" Emmett challenged.

"I See. Have we met?" Seth gave Emmett a hard time. He put a hand on his husband's thigh. "So what are you going to do?"

"Graham is really my peer, though technically he has a better title because this office is so much larger," Garrett considered aloud. "I should sit down with him, but I don't know when I could now, since we're flying back so early on Monday."

"Is your boss, his boss?" Nasir asked.

"Yes," Garrett confirmed.

"You should tell him," Nasir took a sip of his scotch.

"I don't want Graham to think I was sent here to do just that. I would want a colleague to speak to me before going to my boss," Garrett reasoned. "Perhaps I could meet him for tea or something this weekend. Would the rest of you mind?"

"I don't mind at all, Honey," Seth rubbed his husband's denim clad leg. "It's not as if I don't have work to do myself. I should have gotten more done today than I did. But I went shopping," he gave a weary sigh. "And had lunch with an especially hot guy."

"I was with you all day," Emmett pointed out with a shrug.

"I wasn't talking about you!" Seth put his free hand in a fist on his hip.

"I'm going to text Graham right now and see if he can be free," Garrett pulled out his cell.

They couldn't see out the windows onto 55th Street from their table, or they would have seen the two men get out of their cab. Jasper took Edward's hand and led him into the restaurant. They spotted their friends immediately and didn't bother to stop at the hostess stand. Jasper continued to hold Edward's hand as he led him through the dining room.

"Hey, there they are!" Seth naturally saw them first.

"Hey, guys," Emmett rose to greet them with a big dimpled grin. Edward and Jasper veritably danced on air in their elation and could not wipe the smiles off their faces. Everyone stood to give them a hug and they took seats with Jasper across from Garrett, and Edward across from Seth.

"So, you found a house? Tell us everything!" Seth bounced in his seat.

And rather than speak, Edward and Jasper looked to each other with beaming faces. Edward held Jasper's hand tightly on the table.

"You tell them," Edward finally bid.

"It's the perfect house, you guys!" Jasper could hardly contain himself.

"Where is it? How many stories? How many bedrooms? Bathrooms? What's the kitchen like?" Seth barraged. "Ah! I wanna know everything! Did you take pictures?"

"Great timing," Leon appeared with the crab Napoleon and the large antipasto platter. "What can I get you gentlemen from the bar?"

"Oh. Garrett, did you order wine?" Edward asked.

"I am just about to. Do you two have a preference?" Garrett asked.

"The prosecco is good. Is that what you're drinking?" Jasper asked. "And the Ricasoli chianti is excellent."

"Get two bottles of each, unless you had something else in mind," Nasir urged.

"No, that sounds perfect actually. Another bottle of the prosecco and two bottles of the chianti, please," Garrett surrendered the wine list.

"And another one of these," Nasir held up his nearly empty glass.

"Shall I bring all the wine out at once?" Leon asked.

"Please," Garrett confirmed.

"I'll be right back with wine and scotch," Leon rushed off.

"Okay, back to Jasper," Seth directed as he spooned himself some crab.

"So, the house is on East Sixty Second Street, between Park and Lexington," Jasper began.

"Sixty Second and Park?" Emmett caught that quickly. "That's not far from us!"

"It's only two blocks from Nasir's office, in fact," Jasper pointed out.

"Never mind that," Seth gave a wave. "What's it like?"

"It is not only well maintained, but perfectly preserved," Jasper stated.

"It's really beautiful," Edward agreed.

"It has all the charm you could ever hope a two hundred year old New York house would have," Jasper continued.

"And all the updates you could want," Edward added. "The kitchen is huge and has been remodeled with top of the line appliances, but they're integrated into the style of the house. The fridge/freezer is counter-depth and stainless steel, and there's an extra refrigerator/freezer in the pantry and cooled wine storage just off the kitchen."

"There's a big granite slab of an island with an undermounted deep single-bowl sink," Jasper picked back up. "And a big, industrial, stainless steel range with two full size ovens on the wall opposite the sink. It has a pot-filler faucet too. The really incredible feature though, is the fireplace. You could almost walk into it, it's so big."

"It's really something," Edward nodded. "And there's plenty of space for a big table to seat at least eight comfortably."

"Yeah, totally eat in," Jasper agreed.

"How is the house laid out?" Garrett enquired.

"So, the kitchen is the back half of the garden level," Jasper explained. "If you come down through the little gate from the street and enter through the door under the stairs that lead up to the front doors, you find the laundry room, a big pantry, a powder room, a big, deep storage room, and then the kitchen, which opens onto the back yard."

"You have a back yard!" Emmett exclaimed.

"You know me," Edward shrugged. "I could have lived in a place without a yard, but having a garden is a nice treat."

"And it's beautiful," Jasper stressed.

"Here we are, gentlemen," Leon arrived with a rack of wine glasses to give everyone a second glass. He served Nasir his fresh scotch and proceeded to pull all the corks. Leon then poured everyone a glass of something. Edward and Jasper, like the others, started with the white.

"And your dinners should be out very shortly," Leon smiled.

"Thank you," Nasir acknowledged.

"You were telling us about the back yard," Seth prompted.

"Right," Jasper picked back up. "There's a patio right off the kitchen that's covered by the back porch from the floor above, and then a really nice private garden beyond. I can so see us having you guys for a garden party when you're all here and the weather is nice."

"I can't wait!" Seth gushed.

"I can see our nephews playing in that yard," Edward smiled.

"I can too," Jasper took Edward's hand again.

"What's upstairs?" Emmett asked.

"The front doors open onto the parlor floor," Jasper informed.

"We have a parlor floor," Edward pointed out.

"The long hall from the front doors leads to the stairs and opens onto the front parlor and the back parlor," Jasper elaborated. "Both equally beautiful with incredible, matching, pink marble fireplaces. And the back parlor clearly used to be the dining room at one time, because there's even a dumb waiter!"

"A dumb waiter?! No shit?" Emmett was wide eyed. "I've never actually seen one!"

"What is a dumb waiter?" Nasir was lost.

"It's, gosh, how do you describe it?" Emmett started. "It's a box inside the wall that can move up and down between the kitchen and dining room with a rope and pulley system. Food can be delivered that way without someone having to climb the stairs."

"I have never before heard of such a thing," Nasir couldn't imagine it.

"You'll see ours soon enough," Jasper assured. "Though it's been automated, so now it's really like a small elevator. It goes from the kitchen level to the parlor level and up to the master suite."

"In case you're so exhausted from fucking, you can't carry nourishment up?" Seth joked.

"I think it's more for laundry and wood for the fireplace, or to transport small people. You could fit in it," Edward gestured to Seth.

"Don't think I won't kick you under this table," Seth threatened with a pointed finger.

"So take us upstairs," Emmett urged.

"The second floor is the master suite," Jasper stated.

"The whole floor? That's fantastic!" Seth enthused.

"On the back of the house is the bedroom with a green marble fireplace and a walk in closet," Jasper described. "On the front is another walk-in closet and the bathroom, which really is a room for the bath. Right in the middle of the room is the biggest claw foot tub you ever saw. There are also side by side sinks with built-in cabinetry and a beautiful green tiled fireplace, and there's a very roomy shower with multiple showerheads. This bathroom is the coolest thing ever!"

"And then the next floor has two big, nice bedrooms, both with fireplaces and great closets," Edward took up. "And even a third, smaller bedroom, which I think we'll turn into a home office, and then there's a full bath for the floor."

"The front bedroom has Liam and Owen written all over it," Jasper rubbed the hand he held with his thumb. "And the back bedroom will make a wonderful guest room, with the fireplace and the french doors that open onto the juliet balconies. And then the top floor..."

"There's another floor?!" Emmett was impressed with the immensity of the house they found.

"This is the last one," Jasper smiled. "It has a bedroom, a full bath, and a great, big room on the front of the house."

"There's a full galley kitchen that connects the media room to the bedroom., complete with a popcorn machine," Edward stated. "It's probably the same size if not bigger than some of the kitchens we saw in other apartments, and for us it's just a secondary snacking kitchen."

"We could host some awesome Oscar parties up there," Jasper added.

"Hey!" Seth protested. "We host the Oscar parties for this group. Though, I suppose they are on Sunday nights and Jasper starts work so early, even the redeye won't get you in on time," he conceded.

"Is that kitchen renovated too?" Garrett asked.

"No expense was spared," Jasper assured.

"I did a little research and knowing what you're paying for it, this house is an excellent investment," Garrett stated approvingly.

"I can't believe you didn't take any pictures!" Seth threw his arms up with his complaint

"Who said we didn't take pictures?" Edward asked as he pulled out his cell. He called up the picture gallery and thumbed to the first photo of the house. He held the phone out to Seth but jerked it back just as Seth was about to grab it.

"This is the start. You can advance, but no looking back. Deal?" Edward imposed his condition.

Seth crossed his arms and pouted. He turned his petulant face to Jasper. 'Your partner here won't let me see the pictures of you he has stored on his phone. I told him you wouldn't care. You don't, do you?"

"As a matter of fact," Jasper turned towards Edward. Time seemed to have slowed as everyone waited for his response. He extended their discomfort by leaning in to kiss Edward, first on the cheek and then fully on the lips.

Emmett and Nasir exchanged a nervous look, hoping Seth hadn't just caused another rift. They had had more than enough this evening.

"I do mind," Jasper finally stated. He didn't really, not with these men, but supporting his partner meant far more to him. "Those pictures are for my man's eyes only," he announced as he looked directly at Seth. "I'm glad he thought to ask me before he flashed them around."

Seth huffed with exasperation. "It's not like we haven't seen either of you naked before!"

"You haven't seen us like this. And you're not going to. Do we have a deal?" Edward pressed the advantage Jasper afforded him.

"Fine, deal," Seth capitulated with a great dramatic sigh. "Now let me see the house!" he snatched the offered phone. "Oh,the garden is nice, and look at all those juliet balconies in the back!"

"Here we are, guys," Leon returned with a tray of plates and a helper in tow with the same. He knew where everything went and placed them, up to the last two. "Ossobuco and veal ravioli?"

"Ravioli for me," Jasper stated and Leon served them.

"Jesus!" Edward exclaimed as his veal shank was placed in front of him.

"Everything looks good?" Leon asked over Edward's shoulder. "Can I bring anyone anything else right now?" he followed up after the nods.

"I think we're good. Thank you," Garrett smiled.

"I'll be back to check on you," Leon picked up his tray and went to see to other tables.

"Jas, this thing is enormous. Why did you order me such a big meal?" Edward asked.

"You need to keep your strength up if you hope to satisfy me," Jasper answered with a leer.

"Ha!" Seth loved that response.

"I've never heard any complaints before," Edward teased back with his trademark Cullen smirk.

"None from me," Jasper smiled.

"And if I eat all of this, I won't be able to move," Edward complained.

"A lot of that is bone," Seth pointed out. "The bone of a poor, sweet, little veal, who was someone's baby, until you killed him!"

"Sweetness, that's horrible," Garrett attempted to reign in his husband.

"And what about you?" Edward countered. "Is that calamari on your fork? Was that squid someone's mother?"

"All this calamari ever said was: 'eat me.'" Seth proclaimed and did so. "Mmm, delish! But I have to see the rest of the pictures." he picked up Edward's phone and continued to scroll through the photos. He leaned to make sure Garrett could also see the screen. Seth scrolled through the pictures for the two of them, while their four friends continued the conversation as they ate.

"So, guys," Emmett couldn't see the pictures and didn't know, "is the house occupied or empty?"

"Empty. Our closing is scheduled for Wednesday," Edward stated.

"Next week? That is wonderful," Nasir expressed. "Although, I was looking forward to having the two of you stay with me. Now it hardly seems necessary."

Edward and Jasper looked at each other. This was obviously not something either of them had considered fully.

"It would have been fun being roommates, but you're right, there's no sense in moving for just three days," Jasper reasoned. "We'll be very close, though. Close enough for you to stop in at our place to have lunch with Edward if you wanted."

"You'll take care of my guy with your home cooking, Eddie?" Emmett grinned, amused at the thought.

"You know I love to cook, and it's not like I'll have that much else to keep me busy," Edward replied.

"Oh. My. God. Look at that!" Seth exclaimed, his voice a higher and higher pitch with each word. Everyone at the table and some of the other patrons in the restaurant turned to look in his direction.

"What?" Edward said innocently before smirking at Jasper. He knew very well that Seth just discovered the selfie he and Jasper took in the master bathroom in which they were pressed together, face to face, in the nude while they shared a loving kiss.

"This picture of the two of you. It's beyond sweet, but also hot. I'm a bit surprised at you, Cullen," Seth gave Edward a long searching look.

"It was Jasper's idea," Edward admitted. He was very glad he'd gone along with it, for Seth's reaction alone.

"Let us see," Emmett said and Seth passed him the phone.

"I had to talk him into it, but isn't it so sexy?" Jasper gushed. "Our first picture in our home. We'll put it up in our bedroom as soon as we move in."

"Just like you did with Emmy's picture, Nasir!" Seth clapped his hands.

"It is a nice picture," Nasir agreed, "though I confess I prefer the one hanging in our home."

"I would hope so," Edward laughed. "The copy we put up will be considerably smaller. Small enough to put away when the kids are in town."

"They've seen men kiss before," Seth waved his hand dismissively.

Edward was tempted to point out that the men the kids saw kissing weren't naked, but decided to let it go. Seth had his opinion, and it was easier to say nothing than continue a discussion that wouldn't change either of their minds..

"So, not a stick of furniture?" Emmett asked as he scrolled backward through the pictures.

"Not a stick," Jasper confirmed.

"Babe, do we still have the card from that guy from that place?" Emmett asked and only Nasir knew what he meant.

"Oh, right, the guy, from the place. Everybody knows him," Seth demonstrated how absurd that just sounded. "Gimme that phone back. I haven't seen all the pictures yet."

"Oh!" Emmett laughed at himself and handed back the phone. "That Tim Gunn looking guy from the furniture store over on the West Side, near where Jasper used to live."

"I know the place you mean, Em," Jasper patted his arm.

"They have nice stuff and clearly you need a lot of it by the look," Emmett assessed. "You could have used the bedroom set we gave to Duane and Rodney, at least in the short term."

"I saw that furniture and you don't need to worry. It would have been a bitch to move and we would not have kept it," Jasper tried to ease Emmett's concern. "It's better gone to someone who'll keep using it."

"Bitch to move?" Emmett gave his dimpled grin. He raised his left arm and flexed his massive bicep. "Have you seen these guns?" he patted his arm.

"Yeah, you're a stud," Seth gave a dismissive wave. "Hey, maybe you could do all those extra bedrooms in themes, kinda like your mom's place," he suggested. "You know, like, a rose bedroom, a periwinkle bedroom, a jade bedroom and, I don't know, maybe a saffron bedroom."

"Could you be any more gay right now?" Edward gave Seth a hard time.

"I could have my husband's dick in my mouth!" Seth declared. "Would that be more gay than talking about decore?"

"I think It'll be a while before we figure out the decor," Jasper ignored Seth's outburst. "Things are only going to get busier at my job the closer we get to the holidays. I won't have a ton of time to go shopping, and it wouldn't be fair to have you do all the work."

"I wouldn't mind the work, but I don't want to choose anything without your input," Edward said. "We can get some temporary stuff until your schedule eases up. I don't care if we sleep on a blow-up mattress and eat off a card table and folding chairs, as long as I do it in our home with you."

"That would be a travesty. It's gay armageddon," Seth was dramatic. "You might as well switch back to your lumberjack clothes. Surely Jasper or his friends know an interior designer who can do all this for you."

"You know, I do know someone," Jasper nodded. "He does interior designs and staging for expensive homes, like the ones they show on Selling Manhattan? This would be right in his wheelhouse. I'll give him a call tomorrow," Jasper decided.

"Do you keep him around for his big brain?" Seth teased.

"My man has a big, beautiful," Edward paused dramatically, "brain too."

"Ha! Good answer," Seth approved.

"This is fantastic by the way, Jas," Edward stated. "This veal just melts in your mouth."

"I knew you would like it," Jasper smiled. Edward did not hesitate as he took another forkful and fed it to Jasper.

"I cannot stand how cute you two are together," Seth commented with a big smile.

Nasir finished his scotch and then had one glass of the chianti with his lamb.

"Hey, how are we doing on time?" Emmett asked as he finished his own veal.

"We should get moving," Garrett checked his watch.

"Would anyone like anything else before I ask for the check?" Nasir looked around the table.

"Will you let us get it, Nasir?" Edward asked.

"No. It is already done," Nasir raised an arm to signal to Leon that they were ready.

"Thank you so much, gentlemen," Leon placed the little leather bound receipt book on the table next to Nasir as busboys began to clear the table. "Enjoy your show tonight."

"Thank you," Seth smiled sweetly.

"And our limousine should be waiting outside," Nasir placed his charge card and his copy of the receipt in his wallet. They all rose and made their way out of the restaurant. Chaiyo had found parking just a couple of doors up and they saw him leaning on the front fender.

"Hey, guys," Chaiyo saw them approach and rushed to open the rear door. "Enjoy your dinner?"

"It was very nice, thank you," Seth answered as he was first into the back of the long car.

"And we're making a show, right? Which theatre?" Chaiyo asked.

Nasir had to pull out his cell to read the text his assistant had sent him with instructions. "Al Hirschfeld Theatre on Forty Fifth. Do you know it?"

"Of course I do," Chaiyo assured. "We'll take Seventh down to Forty Fifth."

It was tight in the back of the limousine for six of them, but Seth sat between Garrett's legs and Jasper did the same with Edward. Emmett sat beside Garrett and Seth, and Nasir sat next to Edward and Jasper. None of them could tell by Garrett's face in the dark car, but Seth deliberately wiggled in his husband's arms, and against his crotch, and made him hard.

They drove through the very busy and brightly lit Times Square and even Seth took pause to admire the view. The corridor of bright light continued and they turned right on 45th. Jasper reclined his lean body against his partner and very much wished they were both not wearing so much. The shirt Jasper was wearing was not tucked in and without even thinking, Edward's hand found it's way inside. And once his fingers brushed through Jasper's sparse, but very sexy happy trail, he grew painfully hard in his tight jeans.

The traffic slowed to a crawl and a stop once they crossed 8th Avenue.

"Sorry, Sirs. Lots of people unloading in front of us," Chaiyo apologized for all the other cabs, sedans and limousines stopped in front of them.

"Isn't that the theatre right there?" Emmett pointed.

"Is it?" Nasir leaned forward.

"Yes, Sir, it is," Chaiyo confirmed.

"I will jump out and get our tickets," Nasir opened his door.

"I'll go with you," Emmett moved to follow and in an instant they were out on the street. Silence descended on the remaining passengers in the back of their limo. Seth and Jasper, now that there was ample room to do so, made no move to get out from between Garrett and Edward's legs.

"Jas," Edward spoke softly and rested his hands on Jasper's ribs, "could I get you to slide over for now? I'm so hard and I don't want to get out of the car like this."

Jasper only laughed as he moved to sit where Nasir had been.

"You too. You've done the same to me," Garrett physically moved Seth to the seat Emmett had vacated.

"Are you leaking too, Honey?" Seth licked his lips as he let his hand move over Garrett's thigh to grip the hard bulge trapped in his pantleg.

"Ugh," Garrett enjoyed the fingers that curled around his hardness. "I'm sure I am now."

"What about you, Tiger?" Jasper's fingers moved over Edward's confined erection.

"Jas," Edward protested weakly. He didn't want his lover to do that now, or in front of other people, but had no power to stop him.

"Save it till we get inside, you tops," Seth settled back in his seat to wait as their car creeped another few feet forward.

"What?" Garrett, Edward and Jasper all asked in unison.

"Oh, didn't I tell you? As soon as we get to our private box, and the house lights go down, so are we," Seth outlined. "Emmy and I already discussed it. You tops are gonna get a long, slow, deep BJ for the whole show."

"Oh, no we're not," Edward shook his head.

"Well, now," Jasper let his hand stray back to Edward's crotch. "I do need to reward you for finding us that house."

"Jas!" Edward looked at his partner with pleading eyes. He very much did not want to do that in public, but he also would never stop Jasper from doing anything he wanted.

"What about during intermission?" Chaiyo asked from the wheel.

"Oh!" Seth exclaimed and all of them laughed that their driver had heard the whole thing.

"And here we are," Chaiyo was finally able to pull up close to the theatre entrance. He jumped out and opened the rear driver's side door. "I'm sure you guys will enjoy the show," he smiled at his remaining passengers as they disembarked. "And I hope you get to see some of it too."

"I love this kid," Seth cocked a thumb over his shoulder.

Emmett and Nasir emerged through the gilt brass doors just as the rest of their party walked up.

"C'mon, guys, we only have a few minutes," Emmett bid as he and Nasir handed them their tickets.

The historic theatre had well worn, deep red carpet and was not over the top opulent, but very elegant in it's old world charm. They were shown the stairs to the left box and climbed up to their seats.

"Oh, crap," Seth's spirits fell the moment he stepped out into the box. All the seats in the mezzanine could easily and clearly see into their box. They were nearly as much on display as the stage itself.

"These seats are perfect," Edward assessed as he and Jasper sat down on the end.

"I don't like these seats at all," Seth stuck out his lip.

"Why, Sethy?" Nasir seated himself next to Edward. "These are the best seats in the house."

"You didn't hear his plan," Edward stated.

"What was your plan?" Emmett asked as he sat beside his husband.

"You perfectly well know," Seth sat beside Emmett. "We talked about it."

"No we didn't," Emmett shook his head. "You made an innuendo in Nasi's office, right in front of his assistant, and I got what you meant because I know how your mind works. That is not talking about it. That said," he ran a hand up his husband's thigh, "I'm not saying I'm opposed."

And then an older couple joined them in the box and had tickets for the seats behind Seth and Garrett.

"Double crap," Seth sighed.

"Sweetie, we got all night and they don't have to rush off to work in the morning," Emmett looked on the bright side.

"True," Seth conceded with a nod.

"Are you going to be able to enjoy the show now?" Emmett smiled.

"I wasn't planning on watching it at all, but now I guess I will," Seth settled into his seat.

And with that, the house lights dimmed, and a moment later the curtain rose.