Disclaimer: I don't own anything...
A/N: Thank you to those of you who've reviewed. Too tired to list you individually...I will for Chapter nine though if I get enough reviews...I seemed to have lost a few reviewers...
I know schools back in and everything....oh well...

Chapter Eight

Another month had passed before anyone realized it. It dawned on Marco that his circle of friends was rapidly expanding. It started with the soccer starting line and grew with their girlfriends. Then moved on to other players on the soccer team and their friends, it kept continuing like that until Marco couldn't remember everyone he'd met.

Paige had been in constant turmoil since her last discussion with Marco. She'd taken it to heart to figure out what or better yet, who she wanted. She didn't know what to do and it bothered her.

Dylan was oblivious to everything. He was happy and tired. Hockey practices were doubled, homework tripled, and his relationship with Marco was flourishing. Charles had dropped off the face of the earth again. He couldn't be more content.

---------------------------------------------

Paige was at home with Spinner alone again. She knew she'd been distant with him but couldn't figure out if she needed to explain why to him or not. They started kissing and then Spinner started taking it a little too far. She backed away from him but he kept trying to pressure it to go on. Her decision was made right then and she knew it in both her heart and head. "Spin, back off. We need to talk."

Spinner sat back and looked at her in confusion. "What's wrong now?"

"I can't do this."

"Can't do what? Have sex with me...yeah I figured that out for myself." Spinner said bitingly.

"No. Well, yes but that's not what this is about." Paige started to say. She got off the couch and moved to the other side of the room. "I can't keep doing the same routine day after day, Spin. I want to love you but I'm not sure if I can. You pressure me every time we are alone. You silently pressure me at school. I simply can't trust you anymore. I can't trust that when I say no, you'll stop."

Spinner cut off her next sentence, "What do you mean? I've stopped every time you've said no. Believe me, it happens often enough. I want more Paige. I won't lie to you and tell you I don't."

"Spinner, this isn't easy to say and it was even harder to reach this decision. I can't date you anymore. We have to break up." Paige told him with tears in her eyes.

"So, I don't have a say in this? You want it to end and it does? How fair does that sound? Why don't you give me the real reason you want me gone?" Spinner said angrily.

"Fine, I'm not sure if I love you. I have had contradicting feelings about you for almost four months now. I thought they'd go away but they never did. I can't ignore it anymore. We fight more than anything and you try to placate me. I can't lie to you anymore. I can't string you along knowing this is going to end. It's better to end it now." Paige told him fully crying now. She hurt inside but felt a sense of relief.

Spinner stormed out of the house. He couldn't find the words to say what he felt and didn't think he'd want to say them anyway.

Paige followed him a few minutes later. She stood on the front porch crying for what felt like forever.

Dylan had gone to Marco's after hockey practice, as usual. The only thing different this time was Dylan seemed disturbed. He was almost agitated about something.

Marco watched him when he first got there. "Honey, is there something wrong? Was practice hard today?"

"No harder than usual. I got roped into doing something I'm not particularly fond of doing this weekend." Dylan said bitterly.

This confused Marco, "I thought you have a game this weekend."
"I do. It's after the game. There are these hockey parties after every game. I've gotten out of all of them so far. I got cornered into this one."

"By whom?" Marco asked.

"Chad. He wants me there. So, I consented. Will you please go? I'm going to need the help." Dylan pleaded.

Marco smiled, "Sure. But you owe me one. I thought these people are your friends?"

"Oh, they are my friends. I'd just rather be alone with you." Dylan said flirtatiously.

Marco rolled his eyes, "The honeymoon period is over. It's time to join the land of the living some time. Not that I don't like our alone time."

Dylan laughed, "I'm aware that you like our alone time. You prove it often enough."

"Well let me prove it again." Marco said smiling at his blonde boyfriend.

Dylan's eyebrows rose with surprise.

Marco moved over, sat on Dylan's lap and placed a kiss on Dylan's forehead. "Is that proof?" Marco asked teasingly. Dylan shook his head no. Marco thought about it for a minute and nodded. He kissed Dylan on the lips this time but only teasingly. It was a light, quick kiss. "Better?" Dylan still shook his head no. Marco scratched his head in thought. "I've got it." Marco cupped Dylan's head and kissed him thoroughly. It was firm, demanding and passionate. When Marco pulled back, he smiled. "Better, now?"

Dylan smiled brightly, "Yes. That's more like it. But I think I can do better than that."

"Prove it." Marco challenged.

Dylan maneuvered so Marco was flat on his back on the couch and Dylan was angled over him. Dylan grinned at him from his vantage point. He leaned in and kissed his boyfriend with reckless abandon.

Marco liked it when Dylan got forceful while making out. He enjoyed taking a backseat on the controls every so often. This was one of those times. He moaned deeply as Dylan became rougher.

Dylan took advantage of the moan and slipped his tongue inside Marco's mouth. He wanted to taste him. He wanted to explore him entirely. His hands roamed down Marco's sides and back up again.

Marco's hands gripped Dylan's ribs tightly. Then they started roaming over Dylan's back and down to his hips. He positioned Dylan so he could feel his arousal against his thigh. He knew Dylan could feel his too.

Dylan groaned in the back of the throat at the feel of Marco against him. Somewhere in Dylan's brain he knew this was going to fast. He wanted it but it wasn't the time, not yet. He pulled away from Marco reluctantly. He rested his head on Marco's chest and listened to his harsh breathing.

Both boys were panting, fighting for control of their amorous feelings. Their breathing became stable almost simultaneously.

Marco ran his hand through Dylan's hair, stroking all the way down his back. He felt Dylan smile against his chest.

Dylan shifted his position a little to look at Marco, "You know why I had to stop right?"

"Yes. It might feel right physically but we aren't there yet."

"Exactly. I'm relieved you understand."

"I would've stopped it soon enough. I'll admit I was enjoying myself."

"Yeah, I could feel that." Dylan responded dryly.

"You didn't seem to be unaffected by it either." Marco countered back.

Dylan grinned like a fool at him and sat up, straddling Marco's thighs. "I was affected. No denying that." Dylan said as he leaned forward placed an innocent kiss on Marco's lips. He got off the couch and kneeled next to Marco's head. "I'm sorry but I've got to go. I don't want to go but I've got to. The parental units are getting angry that they haven't seen me much these last few weeks. I promised to be home for dinner."
Marco sat up and smiled, "That's fine." Marco got up and walked him out to his car.

Dylan sat in his seat and looked at his boyfriend expectantly.

Marco smiled, leaned in and kissed him firmly on the lips. "See you in the morning."

"Bright and early." Dylan responded grinning.

Marco waved as he headed back inside.

Dylan came home and found Paige on the porch swing, still crying. He didn't know how long she'd been like that but knew it was bad news. "Paige, what happened?"

"Spinner, he..." Paige tried to talk between sobs.

Brother alert went into full force, "Did he do something to hurt you? Did he force you..." Dylan's question was cut off by Paige's scoff.

"No. We...we broke up. I broke it off. I couldn't trust him anymore." Paige cried onto Dylan's shoulder.

Dylan didn't know what to say so he sat there and held her until her crying stopped. "Tell me what to do. I'm lost. I've never seen you like this before."

Paige gave a small laugh, "Big brother to the rescue. I'm okay Dylan. It was a break-up. I'll survive. I should call Marco though." At Dylan's confused look, she continued to speak, "He gave me some advice about Spinner. I think he should hear it from me that his advice was so close to home that it was scary."

Dylan nodded and pulled out his cell phone, "Here, go ahead. I'll be inside when you finish."

Paige smiled at the retreating back of her brother. She knew she was lucky to have such a great brother. She mentally noted to tell him one day. She dialed Marco's number and waited for him to answer.

"Dylan? Didn't you just leave here? Don't tell me you miss me already?"

"Sorry Marco, wrong Michalchuk. I wanted you to know that I broke up with Spinner today."

"Paige, what happened? Are you okay?"

At his protective tone, she smirked, "I have one brother already; I don't need a second one, yet. Yes, I'm going to be okay. As to what happened, he tried to pressure me one more time than I could handle and I snapped."

"I'm sorry. Is there anything you need?"

"Yeah, the courage to tell him that I want to go farther than we were, just not with him."

"That's just mean. There are things he doesn't need to know, that classifies as one of those things. So, are you going after Chad?"

"I want to but I don't know if it's the right thing to do."

"Since when has right or wrong mattered to Paige Michalchuk?"

"True. But if I start something I want to make sure it's real. I can't handle another screw up."

"If you want it to be real, it will be real. He's enamored of you. I can see it in the way he watches you."

"Thanks, Marco. Maybe I'll try it. Who knows, it might be the best thing I could ever do."

"Yeah. Paige, one last thing. Tell Dylan before you try anything. He'll appreciate it more than walking in and finding you with him."

"I will tell him. Maybe I should tell Chad first and then he can tell him."

"No. If Chad's going to tell him, warn him to wear full body armor. It should be you who tells Dylan."

"Okay. Will do. See you tomorrow."

"Night, Paige."

"Night, Marco."

Paige hung up the cell phone and felt a hand on her shoulder. She jumped clear out of her skin. She turned and faced Chad.

"What am I going to tell Dylan? And why have you been crying? Oh, and why the serious heart-to-heart with Dylan's main squeeze?" Chad questioned sitting next to Paige on the porch railing.

"Good thing I have a long attention span. Those are some loaded questions. I was talking to Marco because he gave me some good advice and I needed more. I broke up with Spinner today, hence the tears. You aren't telling Dylan anything."

"Why'd you break up with your lap dog?"

"For that very reason, he's a lap dog. I want a boyfriend, not a pet. Seriously though, he was pressuring me to go farther than I wanted to go with him." Paige told him and then added in almost whispered tones, "and because of you."

Chad looked shocked at first, then confused. "Did you say because of me?"

Paige nodded reluctantly. "Yes."

"Wow! I came over to get the Biology notes from Dylan and hear this instead. What does that mean, exactly?"

"I don't know. Marco brought it to my attention that I flirt with you and have been a real bitch to Spinner. He also noticed that there is chemistry between us and if he noticed, then...it's got to be there. I've thought it was one sided but he assured me it's not. It's not, is it?" Paige asked apprehensively after her diatribe.

Chad stared at her in mystification. He couldn't believe he was hearing this. This was the girl he'd set his sights clear of, just knowing he'd never have her. She was his best friend's little sister and breathtakingly beautiful. She was so out of his league, he must've been dreaming. "No, it's not one sided. I've liked you for almost 2 years. I couldn't act on it though. Your brother would've killed me, hell, he still might."

"If it's what I want, he can't kill you. I guess all that affection you've been showing hasn't exactly been brotherly."

"Not entirely. I wouldn't have done anything, obviously, but the thoughts were there. Guess Marco was right. Goals are deceptive; it's the unaimed arrow that never misses."
"Yeah, it's rather annoying that he seems to be right most of the time." Paige said grudgingly.

"How long has he known that you'd dump Spinner and come after me?" Chad questioned with a small smile.

"Since the night you met him. He figured it out and confronted me. Guess it was payback for confronting him about being gay." Paige said positively.

"What's this mean for us?" Chad asked looking at her.

"We should try one date and see if it works out there in the real world. What we think we have may only be limited to this house."

"Sounds good to me."

"Don't you have a girlfriend?" Paige inquired.

"You know how these high school things go, she dumped me for some guy who works at the mall." Chad said with a shrug.

"Okay, so about the date?" Paige asked coquettishly.

"We have another hockey party after the game this week; let's have that as our first date. Dylan said he will be there in case you need rescuing. I'm guessing Marco will be coming too." Chad suggested.

"Fine, but I thought you were my rescuer." Paige said referring to the scene with Charles.
Chad laughed and rolled his eyes at her. 'She's just so cute.'

Dylan stepped out on the porch and found Chad and Paige sitting in a companionable silence, both smiling secretively. "What's up, Chad?"

"Came by to see if I could borrow your Biology notes."

"Sure. You'd have your own if you'd stop sleeping through the lectures." Dylan reprimanded.

Chad grinned at him, "But your handwriting is so much neater than mine."

Paige laughed, "Then yours must be atrocious. Dylan's is worse than a two-year-olds."

"Why are you out here with my sister?" Dylan questioned.

"She appeared to need a friend when I came up." Chad said reasonably.

It was the truth; she did need one when he walked up. He didn't realize what needing a friend was going to turn into when he sat down.

Dylan looked between his sister and his friend. Something didn't feel right between them but he couldn't put his finger on what it was.

Dylan went inside to grab his notes for his friend.

"Are you going to tell Dylan?" Chad questioned after the door closed.

"Yes. I wouldn't ask you to do it. I'd like to see the first date before you get killed." Paige answered smiling.

"I can protect myself against Dylan. Besides, he won't kill me until hockey finals are over. They need me."

Paige was laughing as Dylan walked back out the door.

"This is the Paige I like to see. How'd you get her to laugh so quickly?" Dylan inquired.

"Told her the truth. She seems to get a kick out of it." Chad said shrugging.

Dylan laughed and handed over his notes.

Chad stood up and put a hand on Paige's shoulder. "See you later. You'll be okay now, right?"

Paige laughed, "Of course, I can't get rid of you. I'm fine."

Chad nodded at her and then at Dylan and left the porch.

Dylan watched him leave with a confused expression.

Paige was watching him carefully, trying to gauge his mood. "Dylan, sit down. I need to tell you something."

"What is it?"

"The reason I broke up with Spinner is because I like someone else."

"Let me guess, Chad?"

"Yes. I wanted you to know first. We have a date on Saturday."

"You work quickly. How long have you known about this?"

"The date? About five minutes. Chad? A few weeks."

"How long has Chad known that you like him?"

"About ten minutes."

"What do you want me to say?"

"That you're okay with this."

"Do I have a choice?"

"Not really but it would mean a lot to me if you were behind it."

"If he hurts you, I'll kill him."

Paige smiled. This was the sign that everything was going to be okay. Dylan wasn't going to kill him without reason.

-------------------------------------------------

Saturday turned out to be the perfect November day, bright and crisp. Paige and Marco attended the hockey game with their friends, knowing what was to come later.

The game ended with Degrassi winning, of course.

The friends dispersed, leaving Paige and Marco sitting silently in the stands. They sat together knowing the other was thinking the same thing. Neither had any idea what they had gotten themselves into by agreeing to this party.

Marco looked over and smiled at her, "Well, shall we go meet our dates at the locker room?"

Paige stood up and held out her hand, "I guess. Moral support?"

"For you or me?"

"Can we be there for each other?"

"Sounds like a good plan. Let's go." Marco said as he took her hand.

They walked toward the locker room and Marco dropped her hand but put his arm around her waist instead. Paige leaned against him as they waited for Dylan and Chad. They planned on going to the party together, mainly to ease Marco and Paige's discomfort.

Neither understood why they were so nervous. Paige had grown up with these guys and Marco had hung out with them often enough since meeting them.

Dylan and Chad emerged together, laughing. They noticed Marco and Paige standing together, almost making a united front. The older two smiled at their dates and approached them carefully. They appeared ready to run at the slightest provocation. The older boys knew they had their work cut out for them that evening trying to soothe their dates.

"Are we ready to go?" Dylan asked in general.

The other three nodded, two hesitantly and one with enthusiasm.

"Chad, why do you like these parties?" Marco asked.

"They're fun. It's a good way to unwind after being out on the ice. They're my friends. Those good enough reasons?" Chad responded.

"Yep. Why don't you like to go Dylan?" Marco asked. He figured if he kept talking, it might ease his nerves.

"I'd rather unwind with you. I see these guys enough. I can't stand the alcohol that is served at these things." Dylan told him.

"You aren't drinking tonight are you?" Paige inquired.

"No and neither are you." Dylan answered matter-of-factly.

"I knew that. I wouldn't drink even if you weren't there." Paige responded snottily.

"Siblings, time to behave. We're all friends here." Chad said soothingly.

Marco laughed at his ability to talk down to them but sound so sincere. "You've had a lot of practice dealing with these two I see."

"Oh yes. I've known Dylan since Kindergarten. I'm used to their petty nit pick fights and how to diffuse them before it goes too far." Chad told him.

"You may need to teach me those skills. But then again, if you stick around with Paige I may not need to know it." Marco said thoughtfully.

"Yeah, I don't plan on going anywhere." Chad responded firmly.

"Do I have a say in this?" Paige asked.

"No, not really." Chad said grinning at her.

She smacked him.

"They are up to their old tricks. They'll be fine." Dylan said to Marco conspiratorially.

They arrived at the party shortly after it started. Everyone headed over straight from the rink. So, it was in full swing when they entered the yard.

Marco and Paige linked arms and followed Chad and Dylan up to the house. The two realized they were without their dates and turned to look at them.

"Well Chad, it looks like your date and my boyfriend are on a date tonight. I guess we're on our own." Dylan said jokingly.

"No man. We aren't on our own. We can make our own date." Chad joked back.

"Cool." Dylan said putting his arm around Chad.

Marco and Paige started to laugh at their clowning around. Marco turned to Paige, "I don't want to lose my boyfriend to your date. I'm sorry, I have to break our alliance. I'll be here when you need me but I'm going back to your brother."

Paige smiled, "Yeah, I understand. I'm getting dumped for my brother, how sad. I could have more fun with Chad anyway."

They separated and went to rescue the boys from each other.

"I knew that'd get them." Dylan told Chad with a grin.

They stayed close together for a little while and then Dylan swept Marco away to talk to someone on the other side of the room.

Paige was standing with Chad listening to his friend go on about the game they just played. She was trying to keep up with the conversation but felt someone staring at her. She looked around and found the source, Spinner. 'What is he doing at a hockey party? Better question, who is he here with? Even better, why is he staring at me like that? Oh, wait, I'm here with Chad.' Paige's musings were cut short as Spinner walked over to her.

"Can we talk for a minute?" Spinner asked.

"Sure. What about?" Paige inquired.

"Are you here with Chad?"

"Yes."

"You work quickly don't you?"

"Not fair, Spin. He asked and I said yes. End of story."

"Think I should tell him that he shouldn't get his hopes up?"

"Spinner, please, you're being mean about this. You know it was for the best. I didn't trust you anymore and I can't help but think that I don't love you enough." Paige said with tears welling up again.

"Fine, whatever. Golden boy is looking for you. I guess you'd better go."

"Yeah. See you Monday." Paige said quietly as she walked away.

Marco watched from across the room with intrigue. He didn't know Spinner was planning to attend this party. He saw the look on Paige's face as she headed back toward Chad. He told Dylan he'd return in a few minutes and went to talk to Paige.

Dylan watched where Marco headed before turning back to his friends, "I got left for my sister again. My boyfriend spends more time with her than me some days." Dylan joked and his friends laughed.

Marco reached Paige's side as Chad started talking to another friend. "Care to talk?"

"Please. I think I need it." Paige smiled gratefully.

"I'm sorry I didn't know Spinner was coming or I would've told you." Marco started off.

"I know. It's okay. He knows I'm with Chad now, at least for tonight." Paige said with a half-laugh. "He's hurt. I can't blame him."

"I know but it was for the best."

"That's what I told him."

"Are you as bored as I am?"

"Yes. They just played the game and now they are talking about it. Get a grip. They won, leave it alone." Paige said with exasperation.

"We do the same thing after soccer games. Well, we did at my old school. After seeing this, I'm sure they do it here too. I tried to avoid those conversations." Marco said putting an arm around her shoulder.

"So how long do you think we have to stay before we demand proper dates?"

"I don't know Paige. I say we stay here on the front porch and see how long it takes them to realize we are missing."

"I like that idea. Come on, let's sit down." Paige said as she walked to the porch rail. It was concrete like hers and she knew it would be comfortable. They sat down next to each other.

"I bet Dylan realizes you're gone before Chad realizes that I'm gone." Paige bet.

"I don't know. Chad knew the minute you walked off with Spinner. I saw his face when he saw who you were talking with."

"Oh please, you're telling me Dylan doesn't know every move you make?" Paige scoffed.

"Not every move. He probably won't notice because I told him I was going to talk to you." Marco countered back.

"So, it will be my fault that he doesn't come looking for you."

"Yes." Marco said laughing at her.

All of a sudden, Paige found the absurdity of the conversation; "Do you realize what we are doing? We are betting which one is more noticeable to our boyfriends. This is really sad."

"Yeah, it is. When did it turn into a competition? We are supposed to be here as support for each other." Marco said smirking.

"At least we are entertained." Paige told him shrugging.

"Oh, look. We would've both lost. They found us together." Marco said with mock seriousness.

Paige almost fell off the railing she was laughing so hard. Marco had delivered that with such a deadpanned tone, she had lost it.

Dylan and Chad looked at each other questioningly and shrugged.

"What are you two doing out here?" Chad asked.

"We wanted to see how long it took before you noticed we were missing?" Marco answered because Paige was still laughing.

"I'm bored and hungry. What to go grab dinner somewhere?" Dylan asked to the other three.

Paige and Marco both laughed, which caused a raised eyebrow from the other two.

"You get the feeling we missed something?" Chad asked Dylan.

"All the time, all the time. Don't worry, you'll get used to it." Dylan replied.

The four trotted off to Dylan's Camaro to leave the party.

They ended up at an all night diner that Marco used to frequent while attending St. Andrews. It was the type of place that kids used for all-night study sessions with strong coffee on hand.

The four were having a great time; laughing and joking. They were enjoying themselves more here than at the party.

Marco watched the interaction between Paige and Chad with fascination. He saw the feelings passing and the attraction growing with each touch.

Dylan watched as his best friend romanced his little sister. He wasn't sure how he felt about it yet. He watched Chad pull out her chair, lean over to discuss the menu, resting his hand on hers on the table, and even putting his arm across the back of his chair. He knew these moves; he'd used them a few times himself. Dylan saw the careful consideration that Chad was showing Paige and it hit him hard. He supported this relationship more than he was willing to admit.

Marco put his hand on Dylan's thigh, trying to get his attention. 'I wonder what is going on in that head of his?' Marco questioned to himself as he squeezed Dylan's thigh a little harder.

Dylan looked over at Marco with a questioning glance.

Marco nodded for his boyfriend to follow him. Dylan nodded his understanding and told Paige and Chad that they'd be right back.

"I think he wants to be alone with his boyfriend," Chad said smiling.

"No, Marco's being nice and giving us a few minutes alone," Paige said with a grin.

Marco and Dylan headed toward the back of the restaurant, where the restrooms were located. When they entered, Marco wrapped his arms around the taller boy and Dylan responded in kind. Dylan leaned down and pressed a lingering kiss to his boyfriend's lips.

"I haven't done that enough today." Dylan said decisively.

"No you haven't but that's not why you're in here."

"Really? Then why am I here?"

"I think Paige and Chad need some alone time."

"I don't."

"Dyl, I know you want to protect Paige but she's a big girl. You trust Chad, don't you?" Marco questioned smoothing his hands down Dylan's chest.

"Yes, I trust both of them, just not together." Dylan said pouting.

"Baby, calm down. It's only their first date. Even if something happened, it's not like they just met. They've known each other for years." Marco said soothingly.

Dylan nodded his head, "Fine, but if he hurts her, I'll kill him."

Marco laughed and patted his chest, "Yes, dear."

"Don't placate me. You can make me feel better though." Dylan said with a lascivious grin.

"It would be my pleasure but first we have to get rid of Paige and Chad." Marco smiled back at him and kissed him passionately.

"Is that a preview?" Dylan asked.

"Merely coming attractions." Marco said flirtatiously.

Marco left the restroom and Dylan followed him out after a minute. He was amazed at the brazenness of his boyfriend.

Paige and Chad watched as the couple left the table.

Paige smiled at Chad; "Marco set this up for us to be alone. You know that right?"

"Yeah, he's a good guy."

Paige nodded and started fiddling with her glass, "Are you upset that we left the party?"

"No. I've been to plenty and I'm sure there will be more. We only get one first date and you look like you weren't having any fun."

Paige laughed, "Wow! That was almost romantic."

Chad laughed lightly and slipped his hand under hers, lacing their fingers.

Paige smiled at the gesture.

They sat in a companionable, yet slightly awkward, silence.

Paige broke the silence after two minutes, "Why don't we just get it over with?"

Chad looked at her in confusion, "Get what over with?"

"I know it's on your mind and I'm convinced it's taken permanent residence in mine. So why don't we get our first kiss over with and then we can move on to enjoying this date more?" Paige said in a hurried rush.

Chad stared at her flabbergasted for a moment, then chuckled at her nervousness. He'd never guess that she'd be nervous about a kiss, especially from him. "Who said I want to kiss you? Girls are yucky!" Chad exclaimed in mock horror.

This broke the ice and tension between them that had arisen since the other two left the table.

'She looks so adorable laughing. How could I not kiss her now?' Chad thought while watching Paige.

He let go of her hand and gently cupped the back of her head. He brought her closer to him, closing the distance between them himself. He pressed his lips against hers lightly, then with a little more pressure before releasing her.

Paige smiled shyly at him, a blush staining her cheeks.

Chad shook his head, as if to clear it. "That was better than I'd hoped."

"You can say that again." Paige retorted with amazement. When Chad looked as if he was going to repeat himself, she pushed him in the shoulder.

They both laughed. "It's good to know nothing is going to change too much." Paige told him when she finished laughing.

"Can I make one request for a change?" Chad inquired. He continued when she cocked an eyebrow at him, "We change the no kissing and touching rule."

Paige laughed, "Well, you've always touched but I'm hoping the perimeters change. And yes, the no kissing rule has flown out the window already."

The boys returned right after that was said and saw Chad holding Paige's hand again. Both of them grinning like to cat that ate the canary and an occasional chuckle could be heard.

"This is a good sign. Laughter, smiling and hand holding; I guess leaving them alone was the right thing." Dylan said looking at Marco.

"When will you learn not to doubt me?" Marco asked annoyed.

"We'll work on it." Chad said smiling at the boys like a Cheshire cat.

They settled the bill and sat talking for a few minutes.

"Marco and I want to be alone." Dylan said abruptly.

"Okay, how do we go about this? You drove" Chad stated.

"We'll take you to your truck. You'll have Paige home by one, no later. I trust you both or I wouldn't be doing this." Dylan said calmly.

Paige's eyes got big at the news.

Chad nodded his understanding, "She'll be home safe and sound by one. I promise. That is if she wants to hang out with me."

Paige nodded her consent; "I'd like to hang out with you for a while."

With everything decided, they left the diner. They dropped Paige and Chad off at Chad's truck.

Marco sighed as Dylan pulled away.

"You okay, sweetheart?" Dylan asked with concern.

"Just happy to be alone with you. That was weird; chaperoning Paige's date."

"Yeah, a little."

"Where are we going?" Marco asked as he opened his eyes and looked out the window.

"A little spot my dad and I used to camp at. It's got an amazing view."

"Any view that you're in is amazing."

"Aww, stop. You're making me blush." Dylan told him teasingly. He felt the same way about Marco.

Marco ran a hand over Dylan's thigh and felt a muscle twitch. He removed his hand with a small laugh; "I don't want you to wreck, so I'll keep my hands to myself until we stop."

"Much appreciated, although unwanted." Dylan said humorlessly.

They reached their destination; it was about 20 minutes outside the city in the woods. Despite the temperature, Dylan lowered the roof so they could look at the stars that were shining so brightly with the full moon. Dylan got out of the car to retrieve a blanket that he kept in the trunk.

He vaulted over the side of his car and into the back seat. Dylan sat sideways across the back seat and looked at Marco expectantly. Marco joined him in the back seat and sat between his legs with his back nestled into his chest.

Marco leaned against him and sighed looking at the stars. "It's really gorgeous up here." He simply enjoyed being with the man he loved. 'Whoa! Did I just say love? Do I love him?' Marco questioned himself internally while staring at the stars, listening to Dylan's heartbeat. 'I do love him. I love everything about him, his horrible sense of humor, his wit, the way he treats his friends and family, the way he treats me, and of course, the body of a god.' Marco smirked at his own libidinous thought thrown in there. Marco idly stroked Dylan's thigh while trying to figure out when he should confess this interesting new realization.

Dylan was watching the stars and relishing the feel of his boyfriend in his arms and against his chest. He was taking great pleasure in the feel of Marco's small hand stroking his thigh. He'd fallen in love with the boy but couldn't figure out when it happened exactly. He couldn't pinpoint a single moment where it hit like in the movies. It seemed to develop, simply and honestly. He knew it was love, even though it felt so different than what he felt for Charles. This felt deeper, more lasting and right.

Dylan started nuzzling Marco's neck, kissing him behind the ear and then down his neck a little.

Marco moaned lightly at the feel of Dylan's lips on his neck. He shifted his position so he was sitting sideways on Dylan's lap.

It being a full moon gave them ample light to see one another clearly. Dylan looked ethereal in the bluish glow of the moonlight, Marco thought smiling.

Marco kissed Dylan with all the passion he felt, leaving them both staggered mentally and physically.

Marco pulled away and nestled back down into Dylan's chest. Resting his head in the crook of his neck, he felt safe.

Dylan laughed lightly at the ticklish feeling that Marco's hair was causing on his neck. Dylan tightened his arms around Marco, content with being together.

"Dylan, there's something I need to get off my chest," Marco said wavering. He felt Dylan stiffen and his heartbeat speed up a little at his words. "I don't know when it happened, so please don't ask but I've come to realize that I love you." Marco said wincing slightly. Marco felt Dylan relax and a small rumble start in Dylan's chest.

Dylan laughed with relief. He didn't know what to expect after those words but it wasn't that. He guessed he'd already known it somewhere in him because it didn't shock him like it was supposed to do. "Oh, baby. I love you, too. I can't single out a moment together where it happened either. I think it started that day in the basement and developed. With each day, it got stronger."

Marco tilted his head to look at his boyfriend quizzically. He physically relaxed though knowing his boyfriend reciprocated his feelings.

Dylan repositioned Marco so he was facing him and straddling his thighs with a knee on either side of him.

Marco lost his balance during the shift and ended up steadying himself with a hand on Dylan's shoulder and one is his lap. Marco felt the reaction his boyfriend had to him and grinned wickedly. He trailed his hand slowly across the blonde's arousal.

Dylan groaned at his boyfriend's teasing. He bit his lower lip and sucked in a deep breath, as Marco's stroking became firmer. Marco kissed him on his neck, trying to hide his grin.

Marco knew that with the temperature outside the car, he should be freezing but he and Dylan were creating enough heat not to need the blanket that just fell to the floor. He bit Dylan lightly on his neck over the pulse point, then soothed it with a flick of his tongue. He enjoyed knowing Dylan was finding pleasure in everything he was doing, if his moans were any indication.

Dylan was lost in the sensations this younger boy was eliciting. He'd never experienced feelings like this with his two prior partners. He was amazed he could feel this deeply affected with his clothes still on. Since his brain wasn't getting enough blood to function properly, he didn't notice that Marco had unbuttoned his shirt until he felt a moist, hot kiss placed directly over his heart. In spite of his better judgement, Dylan let Marco continue with his misdeeds. It felt way too good to stop him this time.

Marco knew he was getting carried away by unbuttoning Dylan's shirt but he didn't care. He was luxuriating in exploring the blonde god without the worry of parents, friends or a sibling barging in on them. He continued to kiss Dylan's chest and shoulders while firmly stroking Dylan's hardening length outside his jeans.

"Oh God, baby. That feels wonderful," Dylan moaned as he ran his fingers through the dark brown locks on Marco's head.

Marco smiled against Dylan's chest. He started kissing his way back up to his neck, repositioning himself to lie directly on top of Dylan. They fit together perfectly, each feeling the other's interest clearly.

"So, you like the attention." Marco stated playfully between kisses. Marco shifted ever so slightly, causing friction between the two.

"Ugh, if you keep that up, you're going to kill me." Dylan said groaning.

Marco nipped lightly at Dylan's bottom lip, "OH, but what a way to go."

Dylan laughed but sobered quickly. He pulled the amazing, wonderful, absolutely adorably sexy teen down for a kiss.

The kiss was hot, passionate, searing, and mind blowing. It lasted longer than it had any right to last.

Marco pulled away from Dylan reluctantly. He straddled his lower thighs putting a little distance between them. He looked down at the man he'd fallen in love with over the past four months and tried to control his breathing. All of a sudden, he felt happier than he could ever remember being in his life.

Dylan rested his head against the side of the car, fighting for control over his lecherous emotions. He noticed that he was cold, it was an odd feeling considering he'd been burning up a few moments earlier. He slowly buttoned up his shirt and checked his watch. He wanted to be home in time to make sure Paige made her curfew.

"Time to go, love?" Marco questioned.

"Yeah, unfortunately." Dylan said on a sigh.

Marco climbed into the front seat and settled against the cool leather.

Dylan joined Marco in the front after folding the blanket and putting it under the front seat, so it wouldn't blow away.

Marco smiled at him as he reached over and trailed a finger down his cheek.

"Okay, don't do that. My willpower has evaporated. Keep your hands to yourself." Dylan said with frustration.

Marco laughed loud and hard. He couldn't believe he was getting yelled at by Dylan. It was just too funny.

Dylan reached over and put his hand on Marco's thigh.

Marco slapped his hand away, "Ah...Ah...Ah. Hand's off." Marco admonished lightly.

Dylan rolled his eyes but started the car and drove Marco home. He let him out after a brief kiss on the lips.

Dylan drove home and parked in the driveway. Chad pulled up as soon as he cut off the engine. He waited a few minutes before approaching the truck.

Chad rolled down his window and beamed a smile at his friend.

"Right on time." Dylan stated warmly.

"Actually, dude, we're 10 minutes early." Chad said cheekily.

Dylan shook his head at his friend. Paige got out of the truck and walked around it to stand next to her brother at the open window.

"There has to be a law about having two good looking people in the same family." Chad said jokingly.

"No law. We're just lucky." Dylan joked back.

"Not to change the subject, but I'm cold and am going inside." Paige stated. She leaned in and kissed Chad quickly before heading off. "Night, hun."

Chad winked at her before she turned.

"Guess I'm gonna have to get used to you kissing my sister."

"I'm gonna have to get used to you kissing a soccer teammate, so we're even."

The boys laughed easily together.

Dylan clapped him on the shoulder and turned to walk to the house. "Night, Chad."

"Night, Dylan. You might want to rebutton your shirt before your parents see you." Chad called after him with laughter lacing his speech.

Dylan straightened his shirt, just in case his parents were still up. He entered the house and went straight to his room.

Paige was sitting on his bed waiting for him.

"How was your night after we parted?" He asked flopping down on his bed next to her.

"Good. We talked, kissed, held hands, and talked some more." Paige said smiling brightly.

"Good. I'm happy for you."

Paige looked at him with skepticism but saw he was being sincere, which confused her. "What happened tonight to make you support this?"

"He's my best friend. I know he'd never do anything intentional to hurt you."

"Yeah, right. Now let's try the real reason for the change."

"Fine, I'm happy and I want you to be happy too. Marco told me he loved me and I reciprocated." Dylan admitted almost shyly.

Paige squealed and hugged him, "Oh my, this is huge. You're in love."

"Yes, now shut up about it. I don't want this spread over the world like the normal gossip would."

Paige agreed not to tell anyone this news and went to bed.

Dylan got up and stripped down to his boxers then got into bed.

He went to bed with Marco and love on his mind. He fell asleep to the thought that he could see a future with this boy and it didn't scare him.
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Kate: I love you...thanks for the honesty.
Feral's Revenge: Thanks for the input...

Ashley: Here! Happy now! Make the clowns go away!...I love our chats....

Please review... It makes me happy and want to write. I'm having a mental block right now so I need all the help I can get.