A/N I don't own Glee or their characters, blah blah blah. I do, however, own the OC's :) Not much of them in this chapter :(
This one is for Christine, who sends me fun little blurbs every time I update. Don't hate me, please! Thanks for always having something positive to say! Hugs!
CHAPTER 46
"So, lunch today?" Kurt asked, looking up from his pattern, waiting patiently for David to arrive to pick up his suit.
"Uh, no, I can't, I have that interview this afternoon, remember?" Blaine answered.
"WHAT? Oh my gosh, you said you had one, but with everything going on, we never discussed it! Where is it, and what's it for?"
"It's um…from what I gather, it's for a school that needs a music teacher." Blaine said, unenthusiastically.
"You sound thrilled. I'm sure there's a reason?" Kurt said, his sarcasm heavy.
"It's a private school with several locations in New York. There's one in the city, Westindale, but I have no idea if that's the location where they'll need someone. If not….well….we'll just wait and see." Blaine said, moving his attention to something else. Kurt wasn't thrown off.
"Ok, so if it's another location, where would that be?" Kurt asked.
"The next closest one is about 2 hours away. Too far to commute every day, so I don't think that would work out."
"But is this what you want to do? I mean, what kind of music teacher?" Kurt asked, concerned now over the way Blaine was just blowing off the job as if it wasn't important anyway.
"It's actually the Director of Music Education for the school…not just "a teacher" of one class."
"What?! Blaine, that's amazing! You know that's a little more than just…" Kurt trailed off. Blaine wasn't looking at all excited over the prospect. "Ok, what's going on. Do you not want to interview for this? I'm really confused, Blaine. This sounds right up your alley, and I thought you'd be thrilled, but you sound like you couldn't care less what the outcome of the interview is. What's wrong?"
Blaine just shrugged his shoulders and gave a noncommittal grunt. Kurt walked over to him and put his hands on Blaine's shoulders.
"Ok, out with it. What's up?"
Blaine gave another shrug and turned to walk into Kurt's kitchen, taking his empty glass with him. He reached into the fridge to pull out the pitcher of iced tea and pour himself more, clearly taking his time. Kurt didn't push. But he wasn't giving up, either.
"Kurt, I'm really hoping this job is in town. If not, I don't really want to even consider taking it. I know it sounds great, but I don't think a commute like that is do-able and I don't want to move…so…yeah. And I don't think I could, even if I wanted to." Blaine said, blushing. "You know….'cause you're here."
"Oh…" Kurt breathed. It hasn't occurred to him that maybe he was the reason Blaine was hesitant. He knew he'd be devastated if Blaine left, but he surely wasn't going to be selfish and say so. Still, he felt awful that he was actually glad Blaine didn't want the job if it meant he had to move away. Inside he was singing happily and doing a little jig. "Well…I guess all you can do is go to the interview and see what they say, right?" he smiled, sliding up to Blaine at the counter. He slipped his arms around Blaine from behind and set his chin on his boyfriend's shoulder. "If this is something you want, and if it would make you happy, I really think you should consider it, ok?" he said, hating the feelings inside him when he thought, even briefly, of Blaine not being right next door.
"I'll go to the interview. I can't promise anything else, Kurt." He smiled, turning to kiss Kurt on the cheek. "I'm gonna head out. I have to change, grab some things to take with me and get a shower and dressed and all that good stuff. I'll call you when I'm on my way home. Maybe we could grab dinner instead?" Blaine asked, looking hopeful.
"Absolutely. How about this time I cook for you, though?"
"Deal!" Blaine replied, happily leaning in to kiss Kurt quickly on the lips. "I'll talk to you soon." He said, slipping out the front door. Kurt stood staring at the door for a minute or two wondering what he'd do if they made Blaine an offer he couldn't refuse.
Nick and Jeff sat at a small deli eating lunch and discussing the meeting the previous day with Nick's family. It never ceased to amaze Nick how much Jeff could eat and still be in such good shape. Apparently acting and dancing burned a lot more calories than he knew. Before he knew it, he was daydreaming about a few other things he and Jeff could do to burn calories and he was glad they were nowhere near finished eating. Getting up and walking at this point was probably not an option.
"So your brothers…intense, yet goofy. What's that about?" Jeff asked, grinning.
"They mean well. I think the intense part comes from working with Dad. Alex and Steven have been working with him longer than I have, and sometimes I think they either don't have a clue what he does, or they just turn a blind eye so they don't have to think about it. Maybe that's my problem. I should just not give a damn, ya htink?" Nick smirked, taking a bite of his sandwich.
"No. Nick, you know that's not the answer, but I'd be a liar if I said I had an answer for you. The only thing I know is that if I fell off the face of the earth, things would get a whole lot easier for a lot of people, including you." Jeff said sadly.
"Sure as hell wouldn't get easier for me! Don't you think about letting him win, Jeff. We've come too far into this to give up now. I won't let him run you off if I can help it."
Jeff took a bite of his own sandwich, grimacing, and thought over all the wicked, threatening text messages he'd received from Nick's dad the evening before, and apparently most of the night long as well. By this morning Jeff was terrified. It seemed as though David Duval was coming unhinged. He was starting to sound desperate and out of control even more so than he had before. He'd even gone so far as to offer Jeff a rather large amount of money to go away. To say Jeff was uneasy would be a huge understatement. He still wasn't sure if he wanted to put more stress on Nick by telling him, but it was stressing him out by NOT sharing all of this with Nick. He knew Nick would be angry and upset with him if he hid this, but he wasn't able to bring it up. Nick looked too content sitting there staring at him with a wide smile. God, but he was so beautiful, inside and out.
When his phone buzzed, he nearly ignored it, figuring it was another text from Nick's dad, but thought better of it. He needed to hear from his mom and Gram to know that they were ok, and he'd sent Caroline a message earlier asking her to let him know things were alright. As it turned out, it wasn't a text at all, but an email notification. Jeff opened his email app and found the new email, reading it, then reading it again, unable to keep the hot, wet tears from his eyes. Chest heaving now, he stood up and nearly bolted from the café, blindly throwing money on the table and strode out the door. Nick was quick on his heels.
"JEFF! What happened? What's wrong? Babe, please…slow down!" Nick said, grabbing for Jeff's arm and spinning him around. The sight that met him was his undoing. Jeff looked sick and his eyes were already red from crying and they'd barely made it half a block.
Jeff took a deep breath before answering, and still barely got the words out.
"I've been terminated, Nick. I have no job. He wins again!" Jeff said, no fight left in his voice.
"Jeff…" Nick said, not quite knowing the words to use.
"I just want to go home. Can we just go?" Jeff said, tears still trickling down his face.
"Yeah. Yeah, babe, we can do whatever you want. Let's go." Nick said, taking his hand and heading back to his apartment.
It wasn't long before Jeff was passed out sleeping on Nick's sofa, his head in Nick's lap and Nick's fingers running gently through the soft, blonde locks. His fingers itched to slip the phone off the table and read the email, and finally his curiosity won out. Swiping the screen, he saw that the email was still open, as it was the last thing Jeff had done.
Dear Mr. Sterling,
I regret to inform you that as of today's date, we are no longer able to keep you on staff. As you are aware, the allegations brought against you are quite serious, and due to the ongoing investigation, you have been put on leave. I have had quite a few calls, emails, and visits from concerned parents asking about your return, the vast majority stating that if we are to reinstate you as an instructor here, that they will withdraw their student from the school. As you well know, Mr. Sterling, our school requires the tuition of each student attending to successfully operate, so losing any student is not an option at this time. Although I'm aware…
The letter continued, but Nick couldn't read another word. He was sickened and disgusted with his father, as well as with the staff at Jeff's school for not standing by him. He was fairly certain that this whole thing was illegal, as there was no evidence of any wrongdoing and he planned on looking into the facts and legalities. Right now, though, his plan was to remain right where he was so that when Jeff woke up, he was there. He'd always be there when Jeff needed him. Always. The amazing man in his lap was quickly becoming the center of his world, and he wasn't about to let him go. It was time to bring in the big guns. It was the only option he had left.
Picking up his phone he dialed the attorney he'd be feeding with information from his dad's business dealings.
"Paul? Yeah, Nick Duval. Did you get the last few things I sent over? Yeah, well, I knew he'd immediately lock me out of my office and anything in it, so I copied the information before I sent the email. Most of it I've had for quite a while anyway. Listen, unless you find out that my brothers had knowledge, specifically, of something illegal in what dad was doing, I need you to leave them out of this. I honestly don't think they had any idea what was going on. Let me know if you find out differently. I do, however, want to move forward with it. It's time. Let me know what else you need from me, but I'm finished with him. It's time to take him down. Yes, no option. Spend what you need to find every last little shred of evidence to put him away. Time is of the essence. Yes. Ok, thanks Paul. Keep me posted." Nick said, disconnecting the call. He had thought he might feel guilty, but oddly, he felt a bit of weight off his shoulders.
Sinking down, he snuggled up to Jeff a little bit and drifted off to sleep as well.
Jeff woke with a jolt, his dreams chasing him from slumber and into panic. Chest heaving from breathing heavy, he sat up and ran his fingers through his hair, seeing Nick propped against the side and back of the sofa with Jeff slotted between his legs. He was snuffling softly and sleeping peacefully it seemed. Jeff was jealous. He hadn't had a night of good sleep in weeks, ever since this nonsense with Nick's dad had begun. He did, however, seem to sleep less fitfully when he was with Nick. He felt safe in Nick's arms, as if nothing could touch him…but he was slowly beginning to see that wasn't true.
Carefully, he slipped off of the sofa and walked into the kitchen to grab a bottle of water from the refrigerator. He stood there, drinking slowly, thinking over his options. He felt fidgety and edgy and needed to work off some of his anxiety. Leaving Nick a note on the counter, he headed for the door. He took the elevator in silence, his head starting to hurt from the stress of everything going on around him. When it stopped on the first floor, he stepped out and immediately saw Terrance at the front door speaking with someone he'd never seen before.
"Mr. Sterling, a pleasure to see you, as always." Terrance greeted him with a smile. Jeff tried valiantly to return it, but apparently failed miserably. "Is there something the matter, Mr. Sterling? You don't look so well, and I hope you don't mind me saying so."
"It's been a rough day, Terrance. I've got some things to deal with and decisions to make and what I decide to do could impact more people than just myself." Jeff said, forcing a half smile. The young man standing near Terrance turned briefly and glanced nervously and shyly at Jeff with a smile that would light up the whole lobby. Jeff was immediately drawn to him. The boy nudged Terrance and nodded to Jeff questioningly.
"Oh! Please, forgive my manners! Mr. Sterling, this is my son, Phillip! He's quite the busy lad around here lately, as Mr. Duval keeps him on his toes." He smiled.
Jeff took in the boy's wide set eyes and congenial grin, knowing instantly that he had Downs Syndrome. Some of his students back at the school had Downs as well, and it wasn't hard to spot. They were, however, the sweetest, most caring individuals Jeff had ever come across in his life. Phillip's smile was infectious and Jeff found himself smiling back widely with ease.
"It's my pleasure to finally meet you, Phillip. Nick speaks quite highly of you. He says you're his right hand man here. Thank you for that. I don't like the idea of him being alone here so often when I'm gone, and I'm glad he has someone around that he trusts to keep him company." Jeff said, extending his hand to shake with the boy. Phillip took his hand and gave it a hearty shake, smiling again as he did so.
"I like Nick. He's a good man. One of the best I know next to my dad. He told me a lot about you, too, Mr. Sterling. He says you're everything he's ever wanted and he's not letting you slip away from him." Phillip smiled.
Jeff's heart nearly broke in two, but he didn't' let his grin falter. He wasn't so sure about the future of their relationship. As much as he'd like to think of forever, he knew it was going to be an uphill battle the whole way, and that put stress on everyone, not just him.
"I care about Nick an awful lot, and I agree with you. He's one of the best men I know as well." Jeff agreed.
"You'd be hard pressed to find anyone as giving and generous as Mr. Duval." Terrance stated. "Without him….well, I don't know where we'd be now." He said quietly. Jeff tilted his head in confusion, so the man continued. "My wife, she's ill. I worked for Mr. David Duval for 35 years and he suddenly let me go without warning or reason. My Louise…she's been fighting the cancer for years now, and without the health insurance, well, we'd have been done for. Not to mention the things we need for Phillip as well." He said, tousling the boys thick, chestnut hair. "I knew I was getting older, it's no secret, but I was doing my job same as I always did. Then one day, I'm out. Nick got into a battle royal with his father over it when he found out, and he moved Louise and me and our son up here to New York so Lou could have the best care in the best facilities. He pays for all of it, and never questions a thing. That man is a saint, and I won't let anyone tell me different. He's an angel on earth, Nick is."
"I wish the same could be said of his father, but it'd be a lie." Jeff muttered under his breath, lost in his own thoughts of Nick and Terrance's family.
"I don't like to speak ill of anyone, but when I look at those two men, I know the apple not only fell far from the tree, but it continued to roll for a while. Nick is nothing like his father, and for that I'll be forever grateful." Terrance said quietly. "I hope you know what a fine, fine man you have there, Mr. Sterling."
Jeff's breathing hitched and he was suddenly afraid he was going to cry in front of the other men. Terrance tilted his head to the side, giving him an inquiring look.
"Sir? Are you well?" he asked.
"No…no, not really, Terrance. I have decisions to make. Big decisions. They impact not only my life but everyone IN my life apparently. It impacts Nick and his family as well, and I'm torn. I'm being selfish, and I can't do that anymore. I have to make a choice, and I know it won't be popular with the majority, but sometimes doing the right thing doesn't seem like you're doing the right thing on the outside. And on the inside it hurts… a lot." Jeff finished.
"Well, sir, if I can be of any assistance, whatsoever, with your…decision…I hope you'll not hesitate to ask for anything from me. Anyone as important to Nick as you are is also important to me and to my family."
"Thanks for that, Terrance. It means a lot to me. I think I need to walk and clear my head a bit. I'll be back soon. It was good to finally meet you, Phillip. I can see why Nick thinks you hung the moon." He said, giving the boy a big grin.
"Thanks Mr. Sterling." The boy smiled back.
"Jeff. I'm just Jeff, ok?"
"Ok, Jeff!" he called as the blonde man walked away without the usual skip in his step.
Blaine's phone buzzed as he was just about to go into his interview and he saw that it was from Jeff. Making a mental note to read the text as soon as his interview was over, he switched his phone to mute and walked inside to speak to the Dean of Students at Westindale.
"Well, here goes nothin'" he muttered to himself, pulling the heavy exterior door open and following their instructions to the Dean's office.
As he sent the text to Blaine, another text message came into his own phone.
1:27p from Mom: Jeffrey, David is trying to reach you. I hope it was ok to give him your new number? Please give him a call if he hasn't called you yet. He seemed upset.
1:28p from Jeff: It's ok to give the number to David, mom. I'll call him right away. Thanks. Are you and Gram alright?
1:30p from Mom: All is well. There are still men around the house, but Gram likes messing with them. She hides behind the curtains and watches them as if SHE'S the spy or something. Frankly it's rather humorous.
1:31p from Jeff: How are you feeling, though, mom? Sore?
1:32p from Mom: Honey, I'm ok. Don't worry about me. Are you ok, baby?
1:33: p from Jeff: I'm alright. Out walking. Nick's napping. I have things I need to talk to you about, mom. I just don't want to do it via text or phone, ok?
1:34p from Mom: Jeff, please assure me that you're well. I worry about you so much.
1:35p from Jeff: Really, I'm good mom. I promise. Just have a lot on my mind. Love you. Talk to you soon.
1:36p from Mom: I love you too Jeffrey. So does Gram. She sends her love as well.
Jeff dialed David's number and on the 8th ring he finally picked up.
"Yo, bro….glad you called. Uh…." He stammered out.
"David, dude, you sound rattled. What's up?" Jeff asked.
"Ok, so please don't panic. Remember we have renter's insurance, right?" David said hopefully.
"Shit…David, did the tub overflow again?!"
"No, nothing like that. Um, there was a fire in the next building last night. I grabbed what I could before it hit our place. It's not fire damaged, but there's a lot of water damage, Jeff. Sorry man." David explained.
"Did someone move in there? I thought that end unit was still for rent and empty!" Jeff said back, anxious now.
"Nope, it was empty, and they're saying arson right off the bat. Some lady in the other building across the lot saw a guy messing around and called the cops. The fire was set before they ever got here, but it's good that she called. It would have been much worse otherwise." David said, dejected. "Look man, I guess this is as good a time as any to talk to you about this. I wanted to say something before you left, but it wasn't the time, not with Nick here and everything. I uh….I bought Jen a ring, and I'm going to ask her tonight."
"What?! Dude, that's awesome! Congrats, man! I'm really happy for you guys." Jeff said, genuinely happy for the first time in awhile.
"Thanks, it means a lot to me that you're happy. But with everything happening here, and then tonight…and I'm really hoping she says yes, I'm probably going to be staying there, man. Can't stay here, and there's no point in both of us paying rent when we're saving for a wedding, you know? I hope you're not angry with me?" David said, hesitantly.
"No….I'm not mad. I'd have had to move out anyway, probably. Nick's dad succeeded in getting me fired, so I'm jobless…and now I'm homeless. Well, isn't this just awesome!" Jeff said, sarcastically, finally realizing what was happening and how his life had summarily gone to shit in a matter of weeks. "Wait….ARSON? Are you sure?" Jeff asked, suddenly livid.
"S'what they said, man. Said it's cut and dry, as if the dude wasn't even trying to cover it up. 'Blatant' was the word they used. But dude, I got your important stuff out. I'll drop it to your mom's place if you want? I have pictures and stuff…the ones with your um…with your dad. I thought….uh….."
"Thank you, D….so much. I owe you, man. Are YOU ok, though? I don't like thinking of you running around in there with a fire right next door!"
"I'm good. I heard all the yellin' and went out to see what was going on. People were grabbing hoses and spraying it down until the trucks got here. Like I said, not a lot of fire damage, but there's water every fuckin' where. Furniture's ruined and all that."
"Arson….that son of a bitch. I'd bet the next 10 paychecks I'm no longer getting that Nick's dad is behind this. Jesus, someone could have gotten hurt! Doesn't that man have a conscience at all!?" He screamed into the phone.
"Dude, I get it. I hope you're wrong, but I doubt it. You gonna say anything to the cops, then?" David asked,
"Believe me, I plan to call the information in. He's just gone too far." Jeff said, a hint of menace in his voice again. "I'm just so relieved that you're ok. Get away from our place, and stay away if you can. I'll fix it…I don't have a choice anymore. Talk to you soon, D." Jeff said, hanging up before his voice broke again.
He found himself across the street from Nick's building in front of the diner that boasted of the "World's Best Cup of Coffee" and considered going in just to sit, but the smell of food was making his stomach turn. He continued on a bit and stopped at the small green space on the corner and slumped into a bench. Jeff leaned his elbows onto his knees and held his face in his hands, and that's when he was aware of the silent tears running down his face. His heart ached, but his choice was clear and he knew what he had to do. Standing, he crossed the street and gave Terrance a slap on the shoulder and a smile and headed on up to Nick's penthouse.
"Jeff! I woke up and you were gone and I was having flashbacks of last time. Did you bring coffee?" Nick smiled. He then took in Jeff's face and his smile faltered as he approached the blonde man in his hallway. "Baby….what….?"
"There was, um…a fire. At my place. Blatant arson, they're saying. Water damage, but that's all. Still, total loss for all of our furniture and stuff and…David's already moved in with Jen apparently, as he's popping the question to her tonight. I think this is what they call 'limbo' Nicky. I feel sort of detached from everything." Jeff said, his face showing every ounce of sadness and confusion he felt inside.
"Jeff…." Was all Nick managed to get out, wrapping his arms around his boyfriend and holding him tight. "I'm…I'm so sorry. Nobody was hurt, though, right? David's fine?" he asked.
"Yeah, he's ok. Got a few important things out that couldn't be replaced. I don't know what can be salvaged. I guess I should go home and deal with that, huh?" Jeff answered quietly.
"I'll go with you. When do you want to go?" Nick asked immediately.
"Nicky…you don't have to go. I can handle it. I need to tie up some things at work…empty out my office, or whatever is left of it. I'm sure it's been torn through looking for evidence of my dirty little secrets or whatever they thought they'd find."
"I want to. I want to help you. I want…I feel like this is my fault and…Jeff?" Nick said, his voice trailing off as if he could read Jeff's mind.
"Are you hungry? I'm hungry. Can we eat?" Jeff said, quickly changing the subject. Nick just gave him a sad look, not knowing what to say to make things better anymore.
"Yeah…yeah, we can eat. Anywhere you want. I don't feel like cooking." Nick said.
"You pick, just tell me what to wear."
"I'll make a reservation somewhere nice." Nick said quietly, grabbing his phone. "Can you be ready in 30 minutes?"
"Fine….yeah, 30 minutes. Wherever you want. We can go across the street to the diner for all I care." Jeff replied, heading down the hallway to the bedroom to change. He stood in the doorway of the bedroom and stared at the bed for a while, not moving. "Just one time, Nicky. I have to have this one time. Forgive me….." he trailed off, changing his clothes.
"Soooooo, tell me about the interview?" Kurt said, serving dinner onto their plates, then setting them down on the table in front of Blaine.
"It went well, I think." Blaine replied, lamely, sticking his fork into his food and swirling it around, but not taking a bite.
"Well, for God's sake, calm down, Blaine before you hurt yourself there!" Kurt deadpanned.
"I don't know what else to say. He didn't say where the job would be, and I was honestly too fucking afraid to ask, Kurt." Blaine said with a humorless chuckle, never looking up from his plate. "It's my god-damned dream job. It's everything I've ever wanted…everything I'd hoped to find when I moved to New York, and here I sit not giving a shit if I get it because it might be the reason I'd have to leave you. And you know what? I don't want to do that. I just don't. Maybe it's immature, maybe I need to have my head examined, but Christ, Kurt, I've waited my whole life to find someone that makes me feel as safe, as cared for and as alive as you do and now…..now…..Fuck." Blaine said, finally looking up from ranting, loudly, at his plate of pasta and veggies, seeing Kurt's stunned and slightly hurt expression at being yelled at. "Damn it, Kurt, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry." He said, getting up and moving around the small high top table to hook his arms around Kurt while he still sat on his barstool.
Kurt was breathing heavily. He knew very well that Blaine was just upset and venting, and he was ok with that. He'd never seen an upset and angry Blaine, though, so this was new and it threw him for a loop.
"Honey, it's ok." Kurt said, hooking his own hands over Blaine's that were now crossed over his chest. He leaned back into the hard body behind him, laying his head on Blaine's shoulder, and turned to press a kiss to his neck. "I'm never going to push you to do something you don't want to do. It's not my place…but Blaine, you said it yourself. This is your dream job. Don't write it off just yet. Let's do the pros and cons, ok? Together?"
"No. I don't want to do that tonight. I just…I need to just forget about it and chill out tonight. Can we do that instead? Watch a movie or something?" Blaine asked, sighing in frustration.
"Ok. Yeah, that's fine. We can do that…absolutely. Now sit down and eat before it gets cold!" he scolded Blaine, swatting at him like a small child. Blaine smiled and sat back down just as Kurt's phone buzzed.
"Shit….I forgot to text Jeff back. Give me one minute…I'm sorry, this is so rude, but his message was odd." Blaine said.
"Go ahead….I'll check mine, you check yours."
2:14p from Jeff: Blainey, I need a favor. It's not something I want to talk about in front of Nick. Can I call you?
8:27p from Blaine: So sorry it took me so long. I was in an interview and then got sidetracked. Anything… you know that. You don't even have to ask. Call me when you can. Miss you, man!
8:30p from Jeff: I'll call soon. And thank you. You may change your mind when I tell you what I need.
8:31p from Blaine: I won't change my mind. What's mine is yours, you know that. Anything I can do to help, I'll do. You and me against the world, remember? J
8:32p from Jeff: Love you, bro.
8:34p from Blaine: Back at ya, man.
Jeff and Nick ate in silence at a swanky restaurant Nick had picked. It wasn't quiet by any means, and he felt like he had to yell to get Nick's attention, but it was ok, especially tonight, considering he wanted as little conversation as possible. He felt that Nick could read his mind and everything he said was giving away his plans. After they finished their meals, they ordered dessert and Jeff excused himself to the restroom. There, he called Blaine, told him the basics of what had happened and laid out his requests.
"I uh….there's so much going on, Blaine. I'm insanely uptight and my anxiety level is off the charts. I can't live like this, worried about something happening all the damn time. I can't be 'that guy' that's keeping Nick's family apart. I need to bounce some things off of you, and…" he said, taking a deep breath, "a huge favor?"
"I told you before and I'll say it again, anything you need, if I have it, you're welcome to it. No questions asked, bud." Blaine told him.
"Thank you…just…..thanks. It's all I've got right now. I'll be seeing you soon. Really soon…so keep an eye out for me?" Jeff asked.
"Always, man. It'll be good to see you. What about Ohio and your place?" Blaine asked.
"I'll handle it. It's all taken care of. Just…thanks. Thanks for not asking a lot of questions I can't answer now."
"As long as you're ok, that's all that matters, Jeffy."
"I'm ok…for now. Just…don't talk to Nick about me, alright? About anything, until we talk again?" Jeff asked.
"O…ok. Jeff, you're sure you're ok?" Blaine asked, his concern obvious.
"I'm alright. I'll get by. Talk to you soon, bro." Jeff said, disconnecting. Blaine looked at his phone as if Jeff might pop out of it and gave Kurt a sideways look, clearly aware that something wasn't all sugary in Candyland.
"He's ok?" Kurt asked.
"Physically…yeah. Mentally…I can't say. He sounds alright, but something's off. He said he'll see me soon, so….." Blaine trailed off, shrugging his shoulders.
"You're a good friend. I'm glad to be able to call you mine, anyway." Kurt smiled across the table.
"You can call me yours anytime you want!" Blaine laughed.
"I meant my 'friend', Blaine!" Kurt laughed with him.
"That's all?" he said with a whine.
"And my boyfriend…and the man that makes me feel crazy sexy even though I know I'm –"
"Stop right there! I thought we discussed this earlier? Slave to your talents, Mr. Hummel. Enough of that nonsense about 'even though I know….' And all that junk!" Blaine laughed. Kurt blushed brightly and jumped from his chair to get dessert.
"Ok, so that place was seriously LOUD!" Nick said, grinning when they walked into the penthouse again.
"That it was." Jeff replied, not looking up. "Didn't help when the waitress dumped your dessert in your lap, either." He grinned.
"Yeah….I think she was trying to feel me up when she came at me with that wet cloth. Seriously, chick, I'm here with my boyfriend, back the fuck off!" he said, and they both laughed.
"Maybe that was her wicked plan all along? Dump the dessert in your lap and find out what's hiding in your briefs?" Jeff said, a teasing grin on his face.
"Ha! Joke's on her then, cause the manager comped our whole meal!" Nick laughed. "I got the impression by his 'Mindy, we'll speak in the back!' statement that perhaps this isn't the first time she's done that, either. Anyway, I need a quick shower. I'm all sticky and gross. I'll be right back."
"Good….I'm ready for bed." Jeff said, the look in his eyes making his intent clear.
"O…ok…yeah…alright." Nick replied, his heart stuttering in his chest a little bit. He loved that look in Jeff's eyes. He was feeling good about tonight.
"Jefffffuuckkk!" Nick yelled, Jeff's hands between his legs and making him crazy.
"….need you, Nicky. All of you…" he said, breathless.
"….all….all of…..really?"
"If you want that, too?" Jeff asked, knowing very well what the answer was. For all they'd done together, they'd never truly had sex. He knew he had to have it tonight.
"…shit, yes….oh my God, you don't even have to ask me if – holymarymotherofgodinheaven..yes…." Nick groaned out as Jeff's fingers circled around sensitive areas, teasing his puckered hole and dropping his mouth down to take Nick fully into the warm wetness. "nngggghhhhhhh…shit…yeah…."
Jeff pulled off, leaning toward the table beside the bed and grabbing what he wanted out of the drawer. When he drew back from the nightstand, he handed the bottle of lube to a surprised Nick. They made eye contact and Jeff bit his bottom lip, unsure how to phrase what he needed to say without saying too much.
"I uh…if you're ok with it, I really, really would like to uhm…..I want you inside me, Nicky." He managed to say levelly. His breathing, at this point, was less than steady and he hoped he was the only one who knew the real reason why. Nick just nodded his head yes and pulled Jeff down for another long, passionate kiss.
"I would love nothing more, babe." Nick breathed out, his own voice hitching a bit. "As long as you're sure?"
"I've never been more sure of anything in my life. Please…don't make me wait." Jeff said, feeling the sting behind his eyes. How much longer could he do this without losing it?
He felt Nick's hands slip down over his butt, gripping softly and massaging him, and he let his head fall onto Nick's shoulder. Then Nick shifted and they both ended up on their sides, looking each other in the eyes.
"Please don't ever forget how much I love you, Jeff. I don't care what happens or how things turn out for my dad, nothing can change the fact that I love you…just so much. I just need to know that you know that, ok?"
"I know, Nicky…and I love you just as much. Show me…." He said softly, as Nick's hand began to trail sweet pathways across his chest and down over the barely there happy trail. When he reached past Jeff's shaft, then his sac, he flipped the cap on the lube and set about making Jeff ready for him. Jeff's back arched when he felt Nick's finger circle him and then enter slowly. His breath became short little puffs as he got used to the stretch and the burn. He wanted this more than anything in life right now….just this, with Nick.
It wasn't long before he felt more than ready and told Nick so. Nick edged up on his knees between Jeff's thighs and reached for the condom on the bedside table. He couldn't seem to get it on fast enough and his fingers were fumbling. Jeff giggled at this, surprising himself with the fact that he was even able to find anything lighthearted or humorous at all at this moment in time. Nick blushed and Jeff took his hand, stilling it as he began to roll the condom down his shaft.
"Nicky….calm down. Ok, so it's our first time, but it's just me, alright? Nothing you do could be wrong tonight. Nothing." Jeff soothed.
"Lead me every step of the way, Jeff. I don't want to hurt you, and it's been….it's been a long time since I've um…since I've….I don't DO this if I don't care, Jeff…." He trailed off.
Jeff pulled him down for a soft kiss and smiled into it, his hands on Nick's face. Looking him in the eyes, Jeff smiled and said simply "I know…I know, Nick. Me too."
Nick lined himself up and slowly pushed in, slowing when Jeff winced and going just a bit further when he nodded his ok. They made love slowly, making it last as long as they were able. Nick's heart was full to bursting with his love for Jeff, and he wondered what he'd ever done to have this amazing man with him. He knew there'd never be anyone else for him, and it made him smile. Jeff was his. Jeff was amazing. Jeff was… Jeff was crying?
"Baby, am I hurting you? Jeff…please….tell me if…."
"No…you're not, Nicky. I'm good…just…so good. I knew it would be this way. I knew, with you, it would be like nothing else. I'm glad we decided to…tonight." Jeff said, tears still streaming down his face. "I'll never stop loving you, Nick. Never. No matter what."
Jeff's words were Nick's undoing and he found himself unable to slow down. He needed this with Jeff…needed to feel Jeff let go, needed to please him and pleasure him. Grasping Jeff he began to softly stroke him, picking up speed and giving a little flick of his wrist, never taking his eyes off of Jeff's face.
"N-Nicky….close…so close. Tell me you're….nngggghhhh….please Nicky!" Jeff moaned out, feeling himself falling over the edge, fists gripping the sheets and back arching again as Nick hit his sweet spot over and over again. He came between them over Nick's fist and his own belly, eyes unfocused and trying to keep a visual on Nick as he drove for his own finish. With a last thrust and a loud groan, Nick shoved into him hard and Jeff felt the fullness between them grow warmer. Nick managed to hold himself up on unsteady arms for a minute, panting between them, until Jeff pulled him down for a kiss, that turned into several more. He needed to say so much with these kisses…..so much. And time was of the essence.
Nick collapsed next to him and they both fought to catch their breath, shy smiles between them as if they were teenagers having their first experiences together. Jeff rolled to get off the bed and Nick reached a hand out to stop him.
"Just getting a washcloth and a glass of water, babe. I'll be right back, I promise." He smiled.
True to his word, he grabbed a washcloth, wet it with warm water and filled a glass with cool water, drinking half of it down instantly. Dropping the sleeping pill in the water, he watched it dissolve, filled it the rest of the way, and carried it in for Nick.
Nick's breathing had grown slow and even 30 minutes ago, so Jeff slipped out of the bed quietly and grabbed his clothes. He slipped into the living room and picked up his phone, dialing with his finger over the speaker so it wouldn't make noise.
"Mr. Sterling, you're right on time. Everything I promised you has been done. I assume you're going to keep your end of our bargain?"
Jeff felt sick, and hot tears were running down his face again. He felt weak, and almost cowardly, but he knew it was the only way now.
"You said you'd have everything back to normal by morning. I trust that you'll keep your word?" Jeff asked.
"I always keep my word, Mr. Sterling. Remember, I said I'd win, and here we are, discussing the terms of my victory."
"Make no mistake, David, I'm doing what's best for Nick and everyone else involved. You haven't broken me. I just care way too much about him to watch you punish him because you hate me."
"David, is it, now? Where are your manners, Mr. Sterling? Have you no respect for your elders?"
"Respect is earned, not granted. I have absolutely no respect for you, so make no mistake about that either. You're a horrible individual who has only his own interests at heart. You are a devilish person who takes pleasure in hurting your own family, let alone complete strangers. Let's not mince words, David, I want you to suffer greatly for this, but I know you won't. But know this, I won't stop loving your son because you made our lives a living hell."
"I don't care if you love him, just as long as you're out of his life." David Duval responded casually.
"This is the last I'll hear from you, are we clear on that? You leave Nick alone, you leave my family and friends alone, and you leave ME alone, are we on the same page?"
"I'd like nothing more. You've been a thorn in my side for too long now, Jeffrey. Kudos, though, because you hung on longer than I thought you would. "
"Well, then with as much respect as I can dig up for my elders, you can fuck off, David. I hope you rot in hell." Jeff said, disconnecting the call.
Jeff made the necessary phone calls to the airport and called for a cab. He finished packing his things and quietly walked back into Nick's bedroom, watching the man he loved more than anything sleep soundly and peacefully.
"Forgive me, Nicky. I'm not strong enough to watch him hurt you…to watch him taunt the people I love and care about. I wish I was stronger for you. I'll never stop loving you, Nick. Never." He leaned over and kissed Nick on his forehead, brushing his hair back with a grin, knowing he wouldn't get the chance to do it again. And with that he walked out the door.
At the front desk, he found the envelope that had been promised to him. Quietly, he stepped away from the desk and sat on a sofa across the room, opening the envelope, but knowing exactly what would be inside.
Slipping out the lone piece of paper, Jeff eyed the number of zeroes after the 2 on the check and nearly vomited. Clearly this man had no morals.
He pulled the cell phone Nick had gotten him out of his pocket, changed the settings so the screen did not lock, and slipped it into the envelope. He ripped the check in two…then again for good measure and slipped it back into the envelope as well. Then he included his own letter to Nick. Sealing it, he walked to the door, where Terrance stood on duty as always.
"Mr. Sterling! It's late. Going for a walk again?" he asked.
"No…Terrance, I need a favor from you?" Jeff asked.
"Anything, sir, just name it." Terrance said with a bright smile.
"At noon tomorrow, would you make sure you put this envelope into Nick's hands. I need to make sure he gets it, that nobody else opens it…just him." Jeff said seriously.
"I assume this means you're leaving us, then, sir?"
"I am…not by choice. I have to. I have some things…." He said, his voice breaking. "I have things to take care of…and at the top of that list is Nick and then my family as well. Our decisions aren't always popular, Terrance, but we have to make them."
"I understand, sir. I have enjoyed your company these past weeks, and I wish you all the best."
"Thanks, Terrance. Please tell Phillip I said goodbye…" he began, but had to step away and take a deep breath. "And above all else, please make sure Nick knows how very sorry I am and how much I love him. I know that's an odd request, but I also know how much you care about him, too." Jeff said, tears in his eyes again.
"As if he were my own son, sir. I'll make sure he knows. My very best to you, Jeff. I can't pretend to know what's going on, however, I have a good idea, and I know you care about Nick as I do. God speed to you." Terrance said, offering his hand to shake. Jeff grabbed him in a fierce hug instead and walked out the door without looking back.
Nick awoke to a pounding on his door. He rolled over expecting to find a warm body next to him, but found only cool sheets. Clearly Jeff had been up for a while. So why wasn't he answering the door, then? The pounding started again, and he swung his legs over the side of the bed, glancing at the clock.
"Noon?! Jesus, Jeffy, why'd you let me sleep so late, babe?" he yelled, but didn't get an answer. Maybe the pounding on the door WAS Jeff. Perhaps he locked himself out?
Whipping the door open, Nick was surprised to see Terrance standing in the hallway. He had the good grace to blush when he realized he was only in his boxer briefs answering his door and fidgeted a bit.
"Mr. Sterling left this for you, sir, with strict instructions that I was to pass it along to you at noon today. I trust you'll call if there is anything you need, Mr. Duval? Anything at all, sir." Terrance said, pointedly, before stepping away and into the elevator.
Nick felt the bile in his stomach churning. What was going on? Jeff wasn't here, but he'd left him an envelope? What the hell? He walked over to the sofa and plopped down, opening the large manila envelope and dumping its contents on the coffee table. Jeff's phone, a ripped up check, and a note.
Nicky,
As much as I know you'll hate me for this, it's what I had to do. I was left with no options. He would never give up, and our lives would be an ongoing series of bad events that could have been avoided. I can't sit back and watch him hurt you, Nick, just because I don't want to give you up. Your father is a very powerful man, as you're well aware, and I can't fight him forever. And you can't either, so don't even think of saying you'll take care of things.
Nick, I love you with everything that I am, everything I have. If I thought there was another way, I'd jump all over it, but I don't see another way. He's an evil man who will clearly stop at nothing to get what he wants. I can't begin to know what's so special about me that he took such an interest in keeping me as far from you as possible. I'll probably never know.
He has promised to leave me and my family alone, and most important, he's promised to leave you alone, babe. There are no repercussions for anything that's happened. That's most important to me right now. Please…please Nicky, try to understand.
Thank you for everything…for the most wonderful months of my entire life. Thank you for your kindness, for the laughs and for your unending generosity. I'd have taken you penniless, and I hope you know that. Please don't let this make you bitter. You're too good for that, Nick.
I promise to return the money I've spent on your card, and I'll return the card as well. I'm begging you, Nick, don't come after me. Nothing good will come of making him angry. We've struck a deal and I have to keep up my end of the bargain. I'll start over somewhere with great memories of us, but that's all I can have now.
Know that no matter what, he can't make me stop loving you. I will, you know. I'll love you forever. You're one of a kind, so handsome, so smart and such a generous, loving spirit. Don't let him change you, Nicky. Please forgive me for last night. I couldn't leave without you knowing just how much I love you, and I didn't know another way to show you the depths of that love. It's a memory I will cherish every day.
I love you always, Nicky.
Your Pretty Boy
A/N Don't worry, I hate me more than you do right now :(