A/N: General note of thanks to everyone who has reviewed so far. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this. I appreciate it more than y'all could ever know. I hope it continues to please you.
Wolfie888: An amazing writer? blushes Thank you, I'm way beyond flattered by that. I hope it continues to meet your expectations.
Man freakzoid: Thank you for reading and reviewing. How's your story going?
Roxie24: Thank you so much. The best? Wow! I'm stunned. So happy you like Paige/Chad. I was worried about pairing her with someone other than Spin.
DegrassiLuver4Ever11: This warrants all caps? Cool. I'm flattered and amazed that you love it so much to check daily. I hope I've updated regularly enough for you. It's readers like you that make it worthwhile to write and post. Thank you, thank you...
Skittlezzchika: Thank you sooo much for your review. I'm so glad you've stuck around since day one.
Unsolved: I'm so happy to help relieve the stress of school for you. I remember those days quite well. Thanks for hanging in with this. Hope to keep you happy.
Airbear: New reviewer...yay! Hopefully it gets easier to read. I've been told I use too many big words, if that's the problem I'm sorry and will correct it. If that's not it, please tell me and I'll try to fix any problems you see.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter NineIt was December 13th, the last day of school for Degrassi students before Christmas break. Even though, there weren't any actual classes, students attended to have fun and make final plans for their two weeks off.
Everyone had to attend the first 15 minutes of his or her first and last class to take roll. In between, they could wander the halls; drift from classroom to classroom visiting with their friends.
Dylan and Chad were in first period together so it seemed natural they go look for their significant others together after roll.
"What am I going to get Paige for Christmas?" Chad asked as they headed toward Kwan's English class, where the two others should be for first period.
"Marco and I are going to the mall this week, come with us and I'll help you pick something out." Dylan told him.
"Oh, look here come the objects of our desires. I bet they're looking for us." Chad said laughing.
"Oh, ya think? But do me a favor and never refer to my sister as an object of your desire. It's bad enough I've seen you making out, I don't want to hear it." Dylan said wincing.
Chad laughed and punched him in the shoulder, "Sure, big bro."
Dylan rolled his eyes and smiled as his boyfriend neared.
Marco and Paige left Kwan's class in search of their boyfriends.
"What are you getting Dylan for Christmas?" Paige inquired.
"I don't know. I've got a few ideas but could use some more." Marco hinted.
"Real subtle, Del Rossi. What are your ideas?"
"Can't tell you. Here come the men of the hour now." Marco said with a wink.
"You will tell me later." Paige declared.
"Aye, aye, captain." Marco said with a salute before returning his boyfriend's smile.
"Please tell me I didn't just see you salute my sister." Dylan begged.
"She's being demanding again. I figure it's easier to give in than fight." Marco said nonchalantly.
"Submission, the only thing I haven't tried yet." Chad said with a laugh.
Paige smacked him on the chest, "Come on. We've got people to see before we meet back up with the happy couple." She told him pointing at Marco and Dylan and then grabbed his arm.
"Paige, demanding and controlling...who could ask for anything more?" Chad tossed over his shoulder at the boys as he was dragged away.
Marco and Dylan laughed at his light-hearted take on the blonde whirlwind he'd chosen to date.
Marco and Dylan set off in the opposite direction to find Ellie. Marco needed to talk with her before he forgot what he needed to tell her.
They found her with Sean still in their English class. She smiled at the boys when they entered the room.
Dylan looked around the room and shook his head. He couldn't believe that Kwan hadn't gotten any new posters or decoration in four years.
"Didn't expect to see you so soon?" Ellie questioned.
"I need to talk to you for a minute."
"Okay, alone or with Sean and wonder boy as an audience."
"Did she call me wonder boy?" Dylan inquired.
Sean laughed. "Yeah, it's her pet name for you."
"Why?"
"Come on, I'll explain it over here if I can." Sean said walking away.
Ellie and Marco chatted for a few minutes about her mom, his parents and made plans to exchange gifts. Sean and Dylan were having an animated discussion that they couldn't help but watch. "Their conversation seems more interesting than ours, maybe we should join it?" Ellie suggested.
"You're right, we should. When did Sean become okay with this?"
"I don't know. He seemed to have accepted it before you two started dating." Ellie said shrugging.
They wandered over to where the boys were talking. As they neared, they heard them discussing cars. "Maybe we don't need to be here for this one." Ellie said laughing.
"Before you run off with my boyfriend, could you explain to me the wonder boy comment?" Dylan queried.
Marco started to giggle slightly as she went into how the nickname came to exist.
"It was after Marco met you at Paige's, we were watching his favorite movie, Hercules. When Meg called him wonder boy, it seemed to fit with you. Blonde, perfect physical specimen, too nice for your own good, and everyone's hockey hero. It kind of stuck." Ellie said blushing as she finished.
Sean had to sit down because he was laughing so hard, Dylan looked shell-shocked, and Marco couldn't breathe because the fits of laughter were overwhelming him.
Dylan recovered first, "That explains it. I'm not sure if it should be a compliment or not."
Marco patted his chest, "Oh, it's a compliment. We are leaving now before you decide to give away more embarrassing secrets." Marco smiled at Ellie and nodded his good-bye to Sean. He dragged his boyfriend out of the classroom and into the hall.
They found a few of their hockey/soccer friends when they emerged.
"What's wrong with Dylan? He looks shocked." Scott asked.
"Did you tell him you're pregnant?" Tyler inquired with a laugh.
"Yes. That's it exactly." Marco said trying to hide his grin.
"No, I'm fine." Dylan responded with an annoyed look.
"We'll see you later. I think Dylan needs a time out. He's getting crabby." Marco said tossing him a confused look.
"What is wrong with you?" Marco questioned as their friends left.
"I don't want to be here. I've barely seen you in over a week and when I did we're studying for tests. I'm ready for the vacation to start." Dylan said with an exasperated sigh.
Marco smiled tersely at his boyfriend. "Well, we already got through first period. We've only got three more to go since it's only a half day."
Dylan smiled and nodded, "Let's go find a closet and make out." Dylan said lewdly.
Marco laughed at him, "I would but here comes your sister."
Paige and Chad walked up to them and stopped. The four stared at each other for a minute.
"Is there a purpose for this visit or are we merely going to stand here and stare at each other?" Dylan asked testily.
"Testy much, hun?" Paige asked rudely.
Marco grinned, "Yeah, Dylan needs a nap."
Chad laughed behind his hand. "He needs to get laid."
Marco shot a look of daggers at Chad. Then smiled, "I know but his hand will have to do for now."
"Are we done discussing my sex life or lack there of?" Dylan questioned irritated.
Paige walked away and pulled Marco with her. "You two talk about hockey, or whatever. I need to borrow Marco." She tossed over her shoulder.
They walked into a nearly empty classroom and sat down in the desks.
"What do I owe the honor of being dragged away by Paige Michalchuk?"
"What are your ideas for Christmas?"
"We're back on that already? Wow! I underestimated you. I figured you'd have given me at least until the end of the day before pouncing on that subject."
"Answer the question and stop stalling."
"Me with a big red bow?"
"Now for the real answer." Paige was starting to get irritated, he could hear it.
"There are a few strings I need to pull for one present, which I'm not going to tell you about because you'll accidentally spill it. Then there's the usual gifts; CDs, DVDs, sports tickets, cologne, and things like that." Marco said shrugging.
"I'm curious about the first gift. You can't give me a hint?" Paige asked batting her eyelashes at him.
"Paige, memo. I'm gay. That doesn't work on me." Marco said laughing.
"Ugh...please!" Paige begged.
"No. You'll see it Christmas day." Marco told her. He got up and left the classroom.
The rest of the classes flew by with a sugar high from candy canes.
Last period was the most excruciating for Dylan. He ended up saddled with his sister and Chad, when all he wanted to do was be alone with Marco. Especially after all the tormenting the younger boy was doing. He had a candy cane and was doing naughty things with it. 'Well, maybe he's not doing anything naughty but the way he's licking that piece of candy is making my thoughts drift to him licking something else. Oh this is so not good, I'm in school...get a grip.' Dylan got a hold of his thoughts for about a nanosecond. They drifted right back to lecherous thoughts.
The four headed out to the parking lot together after the last bell of the day rang.
"Lunch on me?" Marco questioned.
"Sure. We were going to hang out anyway right?" Paige asked.
"Okay. Where to then?" Dylan asked. He wanted to get Marco alone but was resigned to the idea of it not happening anytime soon.
They decided on a restaurant and the couples split up, heading toward separate vehicles.
Lunch went by quick enough for everyone. They made plans to go shopping the next day since it was only Thursday and most people still had to work. The boys hated the mall when it was crowded. Marco paid the bill and the four left the restaurant.
Marco and Dylan headed toward Marco's house, since his parents weren't home yet. Paige and Chad headed for Chad's house.
The afternoon ended with two hot and heavy make-out sessions.
Marco and Dylan's ended with two hot, sweaty boys without shirts trying to control themselves, yet again. Dylan knew it was the right decision to stop because he wanted it to be special. It was getting harder physically to stop himself...no pun intended.
Marco was just as affected as Dylan but the main difference was he didn't know exactly what he was missing. He could imagine though and that was more than enough.
Dylan left Marco's before things could get out of hand again. He went home and waited for Paige.
Paige and Chad were engrossed in their own activities that afternoon. She really enjoyed being with Chad. He was funny, considerate, and one hell of a kisser. He never pressured her to go farther than she wanted to go. She was in control of all their make out sessions and liked being the one making the decisions. He'd already gotten farther than Spinner because she felt more comfortable with him.
Chad didn't know why this was moving as quickly as Paige had let it but he wasn't questioning her. He couldn't say that he'd fallen in love with her yet but the feelings he was feeling were stronger than he'd ever felt before.
Paige got home about an hour later and was almost tackled by her brother in the foyer. "I'm happy to see you, too." She said with a laugh. "What do I owe the pleasure?"
"I've been waiting for you for an hour. I need to talk to you about something."
"Okay, what?"
"I know Marco told you what he's getting me for Christmas. I have to know because I have no idea what to get him."
"Sorry, hun. He never told me. You boys are helpless, though. All I know is that it sounded big."
"You are no help. When I need to know something, you don't know...how can that be? You are the queen of gossip."
"Compliments will get you nowhere. I still don't know."
"Have any ideas about what to get him?"
"There was a watch that he mentioned in passing at the mall a few weeks ago."
"Do you remember where he saw it?"
"Yes. I'll point it out to you tomorrow."
"Thank you. You're the best."
"Yeah, remember that." Paige told him with a wink. "I've got to go call Ash and Hazel."
He watched as Paige bounded up the stairs.
Thursday morning started abruptly at 6:45 a.m. for Marco with his cell phone ringing. 'Who in the hell is calling me this early? It had better be important.' It was his parents telling him they needed him outside. He grudgingly got out of his warm bed and threw a sweatshirt on with his pajama pants. He stepped into a pair of flip flops and trudged down the stairs. He blinked at the brightness of the snow in his yard as he opened the front door and stepped onto his front porch. He gasped in shock at his parents standing in the driveway next to a car with a big red bow. It wasn't just any car; it was his dream car...a 1962 Corvette. It was red with black interior and cherry. It was gorgeous.
He looked at his parents as he approached them in shock.
"Merry Christmas, Marco." They exclaimed together.
"Thank you. She's gorgeous. Not to sound ungrateful but why now?" Marco asked.
"We would've waited until Christmas day but we won't be here. We fly out tomorrow morning to go to Italy." His mom told him gently.
"Were you going to tell me? Maybe ask me to go?" Marco asked hurt.
"Your grandmother is ill and you know how she feels about you. We didn't want to upset her. We also thought you'd like to spend your first Christmas with Dylan." His mom told him.
"I do want to spend this Christmas with Dylan but it hardly makes up for my parents leaving me." Marco said bitingly.
"I know and we're sorry but she needs us." His father told him without emotion.
"Fine." Marco said in resignation. "When will you be home?"
"Third week of January." His father said.
Marco nodded and took the keys from his hand. "Thanks for the car. I love it."
Marco ran his hands down the lines of the car. It was a magnificent machine.
He ran inside because he was cold and desperately wanted to tell someone about his present. He got to his room and looked at the clock. It read 7:30; it was way too early to call anyone on the first day of Christmas break.
He sighed and sat down on his bed. He looked around his room and couldn't find anything to occupy himself. 'Might as well go take a shower. I've got nothing better to do right now.' Marco thought to himself. He stood and walked into his bathroom. He took an extra long shower trying to kill some time. He finished getting dressed and ready for his mall excursion with his friends before looking at the time again.
It was quarter to nine and he knew Ellie would be awake. He dialed her number and waited for her to answer.
"Hey, Ellie."
"Hi, Marco. Why the early morning call? I figured you'd still be asleep."
"My parents woke me up at 6:45 to see my Christmas present. You won't believe what they bought me."
"A girlfriend?" She joked with him. Ellie knew his father didn't readily accept Marco's lifestyle.
"Very funny, Ms. Nash, I'm impressed by your wit. They bought me a car." Marco told her.
"That's a nice gift. Why are you telling me this? Why not wonder boy?" Ellie asked confused.
"Ellie, you're my best friend and I wanted to share the news."
"I'm the only one awake, right?"
"That, too." Marco responded cheekily. "Be ready in five minutes, I'm coming to get you."
"Why?"
"We're going to get breakfast. I feel like I haven't seen you in forever."
"You haven't."
"I'm making up for it now. Please." Marco added.
"See you in five." Ellie said before hanging up.
Marco smiled to himself. It was going to be a good day. It was starting off almost wonderfully.
Ellie was waiting for him when he pulled into the driveway. She stared in awe at the beautiful car. "Wow!"
"I know, right. My parents actually remembered my dream car. Guilt works well in my family." Marco responded.
Ellie got in the car, "What do you mean? Why are they feeling guilty?"
"They're leaving tomorrow until the end of January. I'm sure there's some guilt there for not telling me until after the car."
"Ouch. What are you doing for Christmas?"
"Don't know yet." Marco said shrugging. He was headed for a breakfast place near Ellie's house. "I'll figure it out later." He said as he pulled into the parking lot.
They got out of the car and headed for the restaurant. Marco's cell phone rang as he neared the front door. He looked at the caller id quizzically. "Why is your boyfriend calling me?"
"I don't know. Answer it and find out." Ellie said.
Marco answered the phone and found Sean wanted to speak to Ellie. He handed the phone over and went inside to get a table.
She came in a few minutes later. She sat down across from him and smiled. "Can we run by Sean's after this? He'd love to see the car."
Marco nodded, "Sure. I have to meet Dylan and Paige at 11." They ordered and ate. They chatted about what had been going on in their individual lives. It seemed they'd each missed quite a bit.
Marco paid the check and they left the restaurant. Marco headed toward Sean's and enjoyed the feel of the car smoothly shifting gears.
Sean was out in the yard when they pulled up. His eyes said it all, he was impressed. "This is the most beautiful car I've ever gotten close to. You must be ecstatic."
"I love her." Marco stated simply.
"That's not a phrase I'd ever thought I'd hear out of you." Sean said with a laugh. He looked the car over and sighed. "She's perfect. Your parents did a lot of work to find one in pristine condition."
"If you boys are finished drooling, I need to get home. Marco, you've got to get going anyway. Your boyfriend waits." Ellie said breaking in between the two boys.
Marco smiled at her, "Thank you. I lost track of the time."
Sean asked Ellie to stay with him for a while and Marco left the two alone.
He drove to Dylan's and found Paige waiting on the front porch.
"Aren't you cold?" He questioned stepping out of the car.
"Better question, whose car?"
"Mine. Christmas present from my parents."
"Does Dylan know?"
"No. It was too early to call him this morning when I got it."
"Oh. Can I have a ride?"
"Sure, come on."
"You mean I get a ride before Dylan?"
"You and I both know he's still in the shower. Our plans aren't even supposed to start for another 30 minutes."
"It's scary how well you know my brother."
Marco backed out of the driveway and headed around the block. "It's what happens when you spend so much time with someone. I love him. It seems natural to know his schedule and habits."
Paige laughed and the helpless sound in his voice, "That makes sense but it sounds really cheesy."
Marco pulled back into the driveway, "I'm beginning to sound like a girl, so we're ending this conversation."
Chad pulled in next to Marco's car and got out of the truck. "Nice wheels, dude."
"Thanks. Let me guess, you want a ride?"
Chad nodded emphatically. Paige grabbed his arm as he neared Marco's car.
"Did you forget something?" Paige looked at his expectantly.
"Oh, sorry. Hi babe." Chad leaned over and kissed her. Marco laughed at his distraction.
Marco drove him around the corner and back.
"What are you getting Dylan for Christmas?"
"Not telling anyone."
"Come on, dude. You've got to spill."
"Nope. I'll give you this much, he's getting a few CDs he wanted and a watch I saw I thought he'd like."
"You're so not funny. What's the real gift?"
"You'll see in 11 days." Marco said smiling as he pulled back into the driveway for the third time that morning.
Marco and Chad walked up the porch steps and was about to knock on the door when it swung open. Dylan was standing there with his arms crossed over his chest. He looked annoyed.
Chad looked from one boy to the other and skirted around his blonde friend in search of his girlfriend in the house.
He found her in the living room. "Looks like Dylan's...umm...upset." He said guessing.
"He's a little annoyed that he didn't know about Marco's car."
"Oh. Marco will smooth it out. Sorry about the brush off earlier." Chad walked over and sat beside her on the couch. He leaned over and kissed her.
Paige smiled at him, "You're forgiven but it might want to reflect in your Christmas present." She told him teasingly.
Chad reached over and tickled her on the ribs.
On the porch, Dylan faced Marco. He was tense and seemed really annoyed with Marco.
"Hi, honey."
"Were you going to tell me about the car?"
"Yes. I got here and you were still in the shower. I didn't want to call you too early today because I knew you had a rough couple of weeks with school and practice."
"You could've woken me up."
"You're right, I could've but I didn't because I knew you needed sleep." Marco explained gently.
"Ahh!" Dylan screamed lightly in frustration. "I would've loved to hear your excitement about the car. I know it's a dream come true for you and you already appear to be used to it."
"I love the car. I never got the chance to be excited about it." Marco said regretfully.
"Why not?"
"My parents told me that they are leaving tomorrow until the end of January after they handed me the keys." Marco said looking away, hurt lacing his speech.
"Oh, honey. I'm so sorry." Dylan said reaching out to hug his boyfriend.
Marco stepped back, "I don't want your pity about this. I should've known they'd find an excuse to leave." He said dejectedly.
"I'm not pitying you." Dylan responded almost angrily. "Okay, this isn't the way I hoped this day would go. Let's try again." Dylan said hopefully.
"I'd like that. It started out almost well." Marco told him with a grin. "Hey Dylan, I got a car from my parents this morning." Marco said excitedly, mainly for the sake of his blonde boyfriend.
Dylan laughed, "I see that. It's beautiful." Dylan stepped up and wrapped his arms around Marco. He kissed him on top of the head and smiled. This was definitely better than fighting.
Marco leaned back and kissed Dylan sweetly on the lips. "I'm driving today," Marco stated firmly.
"Let's go then. I'm ready to get the shopping excursion over with." Dylan told him smiling.
Dylan retrieved the other couple from the house and they headed for the mall.
Marco's cell phone rang as he walked across the parking lot of the mall. He saw the number and laughed. "I need to take this; I'll meet up with you in a minute." He saw Dylan lurking by the door, waiting for him and knew he needed to keep his side cryptic. "You have it. Great. No limit. I want it. Fine, consider it done. Thanks. See you tomorrow." Marco hung up and gave a mysterious little smile to his cell phone.
He turned and looked at the man he'd fallen in love with and knew all the trouble was worth it. "Ready to shop?"
"What was that about?"
"A Christmas present for someone." Marco answered honestly.
"You aren't going to tell me, are you?"
"Nope." Marco said as he reached up for a kiss.
The boys found the other couple a few feet away from the doors, in another heated debate.
"Wow! It's been a while since we've seen one of these." Dylan commented.
"Wonder what the topic is this time?" Marco questioned.
"Chad, what'd you do to piss her off now?" Dylan asked.
"She's yelling at me because I don't want to go into some girly store with her."
"I'm not yelling. I'm mad that you won't go because I'm willing to enter every sports store we come across."
"Suck it up, Chad. Go into the girly store. It's what having a girlfriend is all about." Dylan said with disgust.
"Like you have any room to talk, you've got the perfect boyfriend. He doesn't go into girly stores and likes the sports stores." Chad said testily.
"Wow! I'm perfect." Marco said laughing. "Things are getting out of hand here. Dylan and I are going this way," he told them pointing down the mall. "You go the other way and we'll meet to change partners in an hour."
They all nodded because Marco made sense. Things were getting a little tense. For some reason, the Christmas season intensified everyone's emotions, making them nutty.
Marco and Dylan shopped, picking up things for their families and friends.
Marco had almost finished his shopping in that first hour. The only shopping he had left was to finish his shopping for Dylan.
Dylan did most of his shopping but still needed something for Marco and Paige. He hoped he could finish it while shopping with Chad.
The boys went to Marco's car to drop off what they'd already purchased and went back inside to meet up with the other pair.
Marco went off with Paige while Dylan and Chad headed in the opposite direction.
"You get Dylan something yet?"
"Yes. I'm done with him. I've got Chad and my mom left."
"What'd you get him?"
"Two shirts and a hoodie."
"Gap having a sale?" Marco questioned humorously.
"No, Old Navy." Paige smiled at him.
They went about their shopping and Paige found Chad the video game he wanted and a DVD. For her mom she found a charm for her necklace and a sweater.
Marco watched as she picked out these things with thought. She really took into consideration for whom she was buying and used it. He was impressed. He found the CDs and DVDs Dylan mentioned wanting and the Fossil watch Dylan was admiring.
"Hun, I know money isn't an object with you but don't you think $165 on a watch is a little extreme?" Paige questioned.
"He wanted it, that's reason enough for me." Marco reasoned shrugging.
Paige shook her head. 'That boy is definitely in love.' "Are you done with Dylan now?"
"With the shopping, yes. With your brother, I haven't even started."
Paige laughed at his joviality. She was glad to hear he was in for the long haul.
They met back up with the boys and Dylan requested to have the assistance of Paige. He still hadn't found anything for Marco.
"Are you the only one who isn't finished?" Chad asked.
"I'm done." Marco told him.
"Me, too," replied Paige.
Dylan shrugged. "I guess so."
"Chad, let's go to the arcade. Come find us when you're done." Marco told the other two dragging Chad off.
"What did you get Dylan today?" Chad inquired.
"A watch, some DVDs and CDs. Look at this watch." Marco said pulling it out of a bag. He showed it to Chad who gasped.
"Isn't that a $200 watch?"
"Nearly that much. How did you know?"
"I looked at one similar to it."
"If Dylan doesn't know how much it cost, do me a favor and don't tell him."
"Okay."
The boys played video games until the siblings returned.
Paige and Dylan headed for the store where Marco bought Dylan's watch. She knew he was looking at another watch for himself. The clerk smiled at her as she approached the counter without Dylan. "Play along that I wasn't in here earlier, please." The clerk nodded and smiled as Dylan approached the two.
"Which watch was Marco looking at?"
"This one right here." Paige said pointing at a watch that looked very similar to the one Marco had purchased. It was stainless steel instead of titanium making it about a half the price.
"That's the one he wanted?" Dylan questioned one more time.
Paige nodded. "That's what he showed interest in."
"Okay. I'll take it." Dylan told the clerk.
He paid for it and she wrapped it up for him.
"One more stop and then we can go find our boyfriends." Dylan told her as he pulled her toward another store. He picked up a shirt Marco had been looking at while they were shopping together and bought it.
They went to find their boyfriends in the arcade after Dylan had bought what he wanted. "I still don't think it's enough." Dylan complained.
"Hun, I hate to state the obvious but give him your class ring. He'll love it. It'll solidify the relationship and he'll have something that screams he's yours." Paige said looking at her brother.
"Then I'm going to need your help one more time. I need to get a chain for it." Dylan told her.
She followed him into a jeweler's and started looking at chains. She pointed one out to him and he bought it without question. If it's one thing Paige knows, it's jewelry.
They met up with their boyfriends and went home. Marco took Dylan with him to give his parents the present he bought them. He needed to do it now before they left in the morning.
His mother opened a beautiful charm bracelet with three charms already attached. "A soccer ball, a heart and a boy's silhouette, that's so sweet. Thank you."
"I figured since you travel with Pa so much, you could add more as you go." Marco said shrugging. His mom started to cry silently at the thoughtfulness of her only child.
His father opened a box with two ties and a solid gold tie pin. The next box contained a digital camera. "You really outdid yourself this year, son."
"I wanted to make sure you took plenty of photos this year." Marco said sadly. "Well, have a safe trip, since I'm sure I won't see you before you leave."
He hugged and kissed him mom and hugged his father. They watched him leave with the older blonde in tow.
"He's really happy with that boy, isn't he, mi caro?" his father questioned.
"Yes, he is. I think he might be in love," his mother answered warily.
"Good for him. Dylan seems like a nice boy," his father actually sounded okay with it.
His mother was tearing up at the implication that her husband was beginning to back her son in his choice of a partner.
Marco had tears running down his face by the time he'd gotten to his room. His parents were actually leaving for Christmas and he was going to be alone. He couldn't believe it.
Dylan knew Marco was hurt about his parents and vowed to find a way to make Marco feel better. He wrapped his arms around the younger boy and pulled him tightly against him, trying to comfort him.
Marco stopped crying but still held on to Dylan for dear life. He needed to feel loved and he felt it the most in Dylan's arms. "Sorry about the waterworks." Marco tried to joke.
"It's okay. I'm sure you're hurt about your parents."
Marco nodded into his chest but pulled away slightly to look at Dylan.
Dylan saw the vulnerability cross Marco's features and leaned down to kiss him. The kiss was the epitome of love and sweetness.
This was when his parents chose to enter the room. With all fairness, the door was open.
When Dylan pulled away from him, Marco saw his parents in the doorway. He blushed a very deep red and tried to explain. "Ma, Pa, I..."
His father cut him off with a laugh. "It was bound to happen sooner or later. I wanted to talk to you two for a minute."
"Pa, this isn't the protection, birds and the bees speech again, is it?" Marco asked fearfully.
"No. Sit down both of you please."
Dylan threw a questioning glance at Marco and received a shrug. They sat down together on Marco's bed and waited.
"Marco, I wanted you to know that we're happy you found someone who obviously means so much to you. That's not right...I'm happy for you. You know your ma's been in your corner from the beginning. Dylan, I wanted you to hear this because you're a huge part of Marco's life now. I want you to know that you're welcome in my home at any time. Now for the two of you together, be happy with yourselves and together. I wanted you to know I support this now and I'm sorry for the grief I've caused you," his father told them.
"Thank you, Mr. Del Rossi." Dylan said when his boyfriend wouldn't speak.
Marco got up and hugged his dad. He was crying again but this was for an entirely different reason. He'd just been accepted by his dad for the first time since coming out. He was relieved.
His parents left him alone with Dylan again.
Dylan smiled tensely, "Pretty wild, huh? Your dad accepted me into the family pretty much."
"I know. I'm so happy and relieved that I don't have to worry anymore." Marco said with a watery laugh.
Dylan pulled him down on his lap and kissed him firmly. "I love you. I'm glad I was here to hear that."
Marco smiled, "I am, too. Ti amore."
Dylan kissed him on the neck, "As much as I'd love to sit here cuddling and kissing, I have to get home before my parents. I need to hide the presents."
Marco laughed, "Oh, how the tides have turned. I'm now driving you home."
"You going to stay for dinner tonight?" Dylan asked.
"Yes, seeing as my parents are packing and then going to bed," Marco told him.
"That's cool. I think we're going to order in tonight."
"Great. Let's go then."
Marco drove his boyfriend home and ate dinner with the family. He loved being in such an open house. Dylan's parents didn't care that Dylan was gay and had a boyfriend. Dylan kissed him and touched him more freely at his own house than when they were at Marco's. That might change now that his father had given that little speech.
"Marco, what are you doing for Christmas?" Mrs. Michalchuk asked. Dylan tried to cut her off but it was already out.
"No, it's okay. I'm not going to do anything to my knowledge. My parents are going to be in Italy." Marco said shrugging as if he didn't care.
"That's not going to work. You will come and spend Christmas with us." Mrs. Michalchuk said firmly. She wasn't taking no for an answer on this one.
"Thanks for invite but I don't want to intrude," Marco started to say but was cut off.
"You won't be intruding. You make my son happy which makes you practically family. When do your parents leave?" Mr. Michalchuk asked.
"I'm not sure yet, why?"
"You will be welcome to stay here any night after they leave. You're welcome here any night for that fact. We don't want you to be alone for the holidays." Mrs. Michalchuk supplied.
"That is so nice of you. Thank you and I'd love to spend Christmas here. I do have one condition though, I want to make Christmas Eve dinner." Marco said.
"Okay. That would be nice. What do you normally have for Christmas Eve dinner?" Mr. Michalchuk inquired.
"A variety of pasta dishes. Would you like something different? I can make just about anything."
"No, pasta sounds great. We always have a huge Christmas dinner on Christmas day, too."
Dinner ended and Marco went to Dylan's room with him. He wanted to start wrapping presents but didn't want Marco to leave yet. Dylan closed the door behind them and started to laugh.
"What's so funny?"
"My parents asking you for Christmas. It was classic."
"I thought it was sweet."
"I'm happy they asked before I could. Now it seems like their idea and they'll be better adjusted to it."
"So you had your own agenda before your parents stepped in," Marco said laughing lightly.
"Of course. I wasn't going to make you spend the holiday alone. You belong with me."
"Can we say possessive?"
"Yes, can we say in love?"
"You win." Marco said as he reclined on Dylan's bed.
Dylan stood over him and leaned down to kiss him. It was short and sweet because Dylan didn't want to take it too far.
He stood up and started sorting through the presents, making sure that he didn't bring out any of Marco's.
Marco flipped over on his stomach and watched as his boyfriend wrap the presents for family.
"Are you enjoying watching me?"
"Yes."
"Okay, just making sure."
Marco continued to watch him until he was almost finished. Marco flipped to sit up on the edge of Dylan's bed. "It's getting late. I'm going to head home now."
Dylan looked up at him, "Are you sure?"
Marco nodded, "I'm getting tired. Driving a stick and being tired, not a good combo."
Dylan stood and opened his arms. Marco walked into them with ease. He rested his head on the older teen's shoulder and inhaled deeply. The smell comforted him more than it should but it was a scent he equated with happiness. It was a smell of clean laundry, the mountain spring body wash Dylan used, and a scent that was entirely Dylan.
Marco tilted his head up and kissed Dylan lightly. "I'll talk to you later. Stay here and finish your wrapping, I'll see myself out."
Dylan watched him walk out of the room and close the door behind him.
Marco stayed home on Friday to wrap presents and get Dylan's last present. He opened the door to a guy he'd known his entire life and smiled. "Do you have it?"
"Of course. You have the money for it?"
"You know better than to ask that question."
"I know but it seemed natural."
"Here's the check."
"Thanks. It was a pleasure doing business with you."
Marco shut the door and held the present in his hand, smiling. 'Absolutely perfect. Dylan will love it.'
Dylan had his final play-off game on Saturday. Paige and Marco rode together, since Paige was grounded from using the car for three months.
"Paige, what did you do to lose the car?" Marco questioned after she slid into the seat.
"I was two hours late for curfew last night. My parents kind of freaked."
"Please don't tell me you don't see a problem with that."
"I was having too much fun with Chad last night," Paige said smiling innocently.
"You didn't?" Marco asked shocked.
"No, we didn't go that far."
They sat and cheered and yelled and made general fools of themselves during the game. If Degrassi won this game, they'd be the best shot at winning the title this year. What it meant for the players, one more week of double practices with another game on Saturday. It meant one more week of waiting for boyfriends for Marco and Paige. They won, of course.
Now came the fun part of the evening, maybe not fun but the most entertaining. Paige and Marco went to stand by the locker room to wait for the boys. The girls that waited for the player's were hilarious. They fawned over the boys, trying to get dates and autographs of the next stars of the ice. Dylan and Chad were both very popular.
Chad had managed to make an art out of brushing off the girls. He signed autographs but got away before any serious groping could begin.
Dylan wasn't so lucky. He always got stuck in the horde. Today was worse than usual since they had just won the second most important game.
Chad pushed his way through to his girlfriend and turned to see his friend still by the doors. He started laughing, "He never gets a break on this."
"I guess it's time I rescued him. I've left him alone with it all season." Marco said smiling. He fought his way through screaming, screeching girls to get to his boyfriend.
Dylan looked confused but relieved at the sight of his boyfriend in front of him. "What are you doing?"
"I planned on showing them that they don't have a chance in hell with you." Marco said smiling as he edged even closer.
Dylan smiled down at him and waited to see what he had in mind.
Marco reached up and wrapped his arms around Dylan's neck and plastered himself against him. He kissed him with such force it staggered Dylan back into the wall. The entire crowd got silent but then started the catcalls.
Dylan laughed as he made his way through the crowd to his sister and friend. It was easy since most of the girls were still in shock.
Chad was laughing so hard that Paige was supporting him.
The group departed to the parking lot together. Marco took Dylan to his house because it seemed like a good idea.
Dylan collapsed onto Marco's bed when they got there. "I'm so sore. I hate these twice a day practices and then game days."
"Aww, poor baby. Take off your shirt and roll over."
"Starting a little early today aren't we?"
"It's not like that. I was going to give you a back rub."
Dylan sat up and stripped off his shirt throwing it at Marco.
Marco laughed and left the room for a minute. He reentered with a towel and some massage oil. "Here, lay on the towel. This stuff is hell to get out of the sheets."
Dylan did as he was told and Marco sat on his butt.
Marco poured some oil into his hand and rubbed them together, heating it up. He started giving Dylan a massage on his shoulders and upper back. He moved down to his lower back and sides.
Dylan was moaning in ecstasy at the feel of his boyfriend's small, yet masterful hands gliding firmly over his back. His muscles were loosening at every touch.
Marco moved to get off of him but Dylan had other ideas. He flipped over quickly and grabbed the teen by his wrist.
"You aren't going anywhere." Dylan said as he pulled Marco down on his chest.
Marco giggled as Dylan grabbed him around the ribs and tickled him mercilessly. They play fought for a few minutes before Dylan pinned him down on the bed.
Dylan grinned down at him with mischief. "You know, I seem to be at a clothing disadvantage. Care to even it up by losing; I don't know...your pants?"
Marco looked up at him with incredulity, "Did you actually ask that?"
"Yes, I did. What do you say?"
"Umm...no?"
"Fine, how 'bout the shirt then?" Dylan asked with hope.
"No. I have an idea though. Let's make out and see how far we get before we stop this time," Marco said smiling.
Dylan didn't even bother to answer; he lowered his head and started kissing his boyfriend. He started it out hot, trying to get it hotter.
Marco's shirt was soon removed and was considering the pants. Marco knew his thoughts and feelings were getting too far off and pulled away. "We have to stop. At least, for now. I'm getting carried away."
Dylan slid off his boyfriend and sighed, "You're right. I wasn't exactly cognizant of where this was headed either." Dylan was lightly rubbing his hand up and down Marco's arm as they lie in bed next to each other.
"You're not mad, right?"
"No, I want our first time to be memorable, special. Today it would've been more about hormones."
"I know when it does happen; it will be very special for me." Marco said with a smile.
"That's so sweet."
Marco hit Dylan in the shoulder, "Ugh. You're such a goof. Come on, it's time to get you home."
Marco took him home and returned to the very empty house.
The next week went by with a flurry of hockey practices, massages and make out sessions for Dylan and Marco. It was finally Friday and the championship hockey game was the next day. Everyone was looking forward to the game. Some because it meant the end of the season and others because it meant another championship in the case.
Marco and Dylan went out to dinner in celebration of Dylan's final practice before the game. It was a quiet affair with only the two of them.
Dylan took Marco home but didn't come inside, "I'm sorry. I can't come in tonight. I don't know if I have the willpower to resist you again."
Marco nodded, "I understand. I'll see you after the game. Paige and I will be the loudest in the stands."
"Nothing new on that one." Dylan told him grinning.
Marco leaned over and kissed this magnificent man good night. It was promising, tentative and full of love.
Marco slid out of the car before Dylan could reach for him and deepen the kiss.
Marco went inside and checked the answering machine. He was waiting to see if his parents were calling him. They left eight days ago and other than the 'I'm safe and sound phone call,' he hadn't heard from them.
Marco got ready for bed and slid under the covers, staring at the strip of moonlight on his ceiling. 'I don't know how much longer I can hold out on Dylan. I want him so bad that I'm physically starting to hurt. I dream about him every night in the least amount of clothing possible...great there goes another night...nice mental image though...okay sidetracked. If they win tomorrow, maybe I could get him here for a session that we won't have to stop. It feels right, I love him and I know he loves me.' Marco drifted off thinking about losing his virginity to the man he loved more than anything on Earth.
Dylan went home and took a cold shower. He was feeling the affects of Marco more now than normal. His voice could get him into a state of arousal that was difficult to hide. He didn't know how much longer he'd be able to control himself. He was hoping Marco would give the all clear signal soon enough anyway. Dylan went to sleep trying his hardest not to think of the boy he loved sleeping just across town in an empty house.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, December 23 is a day that will be remembered by everyone at the Degrassi hockey championship game. It was a complete shut out for Degrassi. They mopped the ice with the other team, not giving them a chance to score.
Dylan scored the most that day and received the MVP award. Not unusual for him but he was ecstatic none the less.
The crowd around the locker rooms had increased ten fold after the game. This time guys and girls were lined up to get autographs and shake the hands of the new high school champions as they exited the locker room.
Dylan got smart this time and attached himself to Chad as Chad deflected most of the would-be fondlers.
"You know, Michalchuk, it's bad enough I have to block for you on the ice. This on land thing is getting ridiculous." Chad shouted at him over his shoulder.
Dylan laughed at his friend and moved closer, "You know you love protecting me."
Chad shook his head in disbelief at his friend. "Do we have plans tonight?"
"I don't think so. I was hoping for some one-on-one time with Marco."
"Well, let's check with the social committee before you commit to any idea." Chad said referring to the other two in their relationships.
Marco wrapped his arms around Dylan's waist, "You were amazing tonight."
Dylan leaned down and kissed him firmly, "Thank you. What are we doing tonight?"
"I was hoping that you would come over tonight. I'll make dinner and then we can have a cuddle night watching movies. Maybe even spend the night." Marco suggested.
"Sounds like heaven. I need a quiet night with you."
"Go home, take a shower...I'll go get dinner ready. Be at my house by 6:30." Marco commanded.
Dylan kissed him quickly outside his car and slid behind the wheel. Marco walked around the hood of his car and got in behind the wheel.
Marco went home and started on dinner. He wanted everything to be perfect. He made pasta primavera again, like the first night Dylan stayed for dinner. He brought up a bottle of wine from the basement to help loosen Dylan up to the idea of consummating their relationship.
Dylan went home and took a shower. He stood in front of the bathroom mirror again; like he did the day he met Marco and took a visual inventory again. 'I still look the same, except for that bruise forming from today on my shoulder. I feel totally different, though. I'm happier, more content, and I'm in love. This is a great feeling.' Dylan paused his musings long enough to shave and finished getting dressed. He didn't know why but he dressed with extreme care tonight.
He left his house and headed for Marco's with time to spare. He arrived about five minutes early after sitting at a stop sign for a few minutes to help collect himself and his thoughts. He knew spending the night with Marco and not being able to do anything major would be a test of wills. He'd meet the challenge head on though if it meant sleeping with him in his arms for an entire night.
Marco opened the door to his gorgeous boyfriend and smiled broadly. Dylan looked great in his jeans and blue sweater that brought out the color of his eyes. Dylan shrugged of his leather jacket and hung it on the coat rack inside the door.
Marco turned to walk in the kitchen but Dylan caught him before he made it three steps. Dylan wrapped his arms around the younger boy and nuzzled into his neck.
"Doesn't the MVP get a kiss?"
"No, but I could swing a kiss for the man I love."
"Good thing they're one in the same."
Marco laughed and turned in his boyfriend's embrace. He kissed him briefly and stepped away.
Dylan groaned his displeasure of being left in the beginning of a kiss.
"We can continue later. I've got to check on dinner before it burns."
"I'm only letting you go because I'm hungry. What's for dinner?"
"Pasta primavera, garlic bread and salad."
"That's the menu from our first dinner here."
"You remember."
"I haven't forgotten much since we've met."
Marco blushed slightly at that admission. He knew that they were in love but never knew it was enough for Dylan to remember things from before they were dating. He finished getting dinner ready and set it on the table. He poured the wine into glasses and set those down as well.
Dylan looked at him quizzically, "What's with the wine?"
"Figured we'd celebrate your win today."
Dylan shrugged and sat down across from Marco.
They ate dinner in relative silence. It wasn't like normal dinners together. Marco was nervous about having to seduce Dylan and making sure he knew he didn't want to stop.
Dylan was trying to keep his wits about him to not jump over the table and force himself on his adorably sexy boyfriend.
Marco cleaned up the kitchen with Dylan's assistance, sort of. Then the two headed upstairs to Marco's room.
"Are you staying the night?" Marco asked almost fearful of the answer.
"Yes. Mom and Dad expect me to be celebrating all night long with my teammates."
Marco smiled slightly; he'd planned on celebrating all right, just not the way his parents meant.
They finished dinner and Marco cleaned up the kitchen with Dylan watching his every move.
Marco grabbed Dylan's hand and led him up the stairs to the sitting room. "Let's grab a few movies and watch them in my room. My bed is much more comfortable for cuddling."
"That it is..." Dylan said in agreement.
They picked out a few movies and returned to Marco's room. They climbed up on the bed together, lounging against the headboard. Marco got up and put a DVD in the player, laughing. "We can't watch a movie if I don't put one in...you distract me."
"I do my best." Dylan said watching the younger boy climb back onto the bed. "You're so damn cute. Sorry I couldn't help but state the obvious."
Marco smiled at him and crawled across the bed to kiss him. And kiss him, he did.
Dylan's arms wound their way around Marco's back, bringing him down on top of him.
Hands roaming over the younger boy's back, down to his hips, over his butt...squeezing gently before moving back up his back.
Marco moaned loudly at the feel of Dylan's hands exploring his body.
Dylan's hands stilled on Marco's shoulders as he gently removed him. Dylan gently slid Marco next to him and sighed. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to take it that far."
Marco looked confused at Dylan's apology. He'd never apologized for wanting him before and it was making Marco doubt whether it's a good decision to seduce him tonight. Marco shook his head and grabbed the remotes for the TV and DVD player.
The boys watched the first movie and then Marco put in the second one, turning it on before getting back into the bed.
Halfway through the second movie, Marco started kissing Dylan again. On his neck, behind his ear, tickling him with light kisses and seducing him with harder ones to his sensitive areas.
Dylan closed his eyes and enjoyed it for a second, "Marco, you've got to stop."
Marco pulled away and looked at his boyfriend with disbelief, "Why?"
"Spending the night here is taking all my willpower right now, adding you into the mix is like adding nitroglycerin. Too much and everything could go boom." Dylan said looking frustrated.
"Who said I wanted to stop tonight?" Marco asked.
Dylan looked at him in shock, "Excuse me?"
Marco sighed and got off the bed. He paced in front of it a few times before stopping to face the blonde still on his bed. "I want tonight to be our first night together. I've thought it out...a lot. This is what I want."
"Not to dissuade you but why tonight?"
"I've been denying myself for so long that it's getting harder to stop and I love you. It finally feels right."
"So the championship has nothing to do with it?"
"No, that's the dumbest reason I've ever heard of to lose someone's virginity."
Dylan climbed off the bed and stood before Marco, "Baby, I'd love for tonight to be our first. I wasn't sure how much longer I could hold out." Dylan pulled Marco to him and kissed him passionately.
Marco pushed Dylan back toward the bed, Marco stripped off Dylan's sweater and t-shirt with one swift movement.
Dylan laughed at his exuberance. "Not wasting any time, are you?"
"Nope." Marco answered while pushing Dylan onto the bed. He levered myself over him and smiled wickedly. He leaned down and nipped at Dylan's shoulder lightly.
Dylan smiled at his playfulness. He let Marco kiss and touch him for a few minutes before turning the tables on him. Dylan grasped Marco around the waist and sat him firmly on his waist. He then unbuttoned Marco's shirt and stripped it off of him.
Marco shivered lightly at the light touch his boyfriend trailed over his chest.
Dylan sat up with Marco on his lap and kissed him on the shoulder to his collar bone up to his neck and then on the lips. He supported Marco's weight as he stood up and turned to lay Marco on the bed.
Marco was surprised but grateful at Dylan's gentleness with him. He closed his eyes and felt Dylan sit down beside him on the bed.
Dylan leaned over and kissed his boyfriend gently on the lips. He watched as the lips turned up in a slight smile, which made him smile. He couldn't believe this was going to happen and wanted it to last. He ran his hand lightly over Marco's chest and down to his waist. He started to unbutton Marco's jeans but stopped before unzipping them, "Are you sure about this?"
"Yes. I'm positive I want this."
"Then why are your eyes closed?"
"Enjoying the feeling instead of the seeing."
Dylan laughed lightly as he unzipped Marco's jeans. He slid off the bed to pull them off of him.
Marco lifted his hips to make it easier to slide his jeans off. He opened his eyes to look at Dylan staring down at him from the side of the bed.
A noise brought Dylan's attention to the TV screen and he laughed. He shook his head and grabbed the remote turning off the movie that had long been forgotten. He turned his attention back to the boy on the bed and found him kneeling on the edge of it.
Marco motioned Dylan to come closer to him, "My turn to look." He reached out and grabbed Dylan by the belt. He undid it and quickly undid the button fly of his jeans. Marco pushed the jeans down his hips to pool at his feet.
Dylan stepped out of the jeans and stood in front of Marco in his boxer briefs with a slight smile at the look of admiration on Marco's face. "I take it you like what you see?" Dylan questioned with a laugh.
"OH yeah!" Marco said grinning.
Dylan knelt in front of Marco and peered up at this magnificent person he'd grown to love. Without another thought in his head but providing the most pleasure possible to him, Dylan pushed Marco into a prone position on the bed and climbed up beside him. He removed Marco's boxers swiftly.
Marco adjusted his position so he was lying against the pillows at the head of his bed and laid there letting Dylan look at him. He was starting to feel self-conscious under such scrutiny.
Dylan was in awe of the younger boy. He'd never seen such perfection before and was enjoying looking at him. He came back to the present and ran his hand up Marco's thigh to his hip, resting it there lightly. "I should've thought about this before but I didn't bring anything with me for protection and lube. I wasn't planning on this."
Marco laughed, "You weren't but I was. Everything we need is in the drawer of the nightstand."
Dylan reached over and set it on the top of the stand before turning back to the younger boy.
Marco had gotten impatient and reached up, bringing Dylan down to him for a kiss. He kissed Dylan with such passion and abandon that Dylan felt shaken when released.
Marco pushed Dylan onto his back and removed the boxer briefs before Dylan could even realize what was happening. Marco looked at the physique of his soon-to-be lover and smiled.
"You are driving me crazy. I can't wait for you to initiate this, I need you now. Inside me, please." Marco pleaded with Dylan.
Dylan was more than willing to oblige the teen. He positioned Marco on his back before slipping on the protection. He prepared him the best that he could so he wouldn't hurt him but knew there was going to be pain anyway.
Dylan leaned over him one more time, "I love you and I'm sorry but this is going to hurt."
Marco kissed him gently, "I love you too and I trust you. I know it's going to hurt."
Dylan positioned himself at Marco's entrance and pushed in just a little. He let Marco get used to the invasion before pushing in farther. He repeated the process about five times before being completely in him.
Marco winced at the initial feel of Dylan entering him and once again as he started moving. It hurt at first but now the pain turned into a kind of pleasure Marco couldn't even begin to describe.
Dylan reached between them and started stroking Marco lightly with his movements. He wanted their first time together to end together.
As the pressure started to build, he started stroking harder and faster.
Marco climaxed with Dylan's name on his lips and Dylan came with a feral scream.
Dylan managed to collapse on the side of Marco instead of on top of him. He pulled him onto his chest and kissed him sweetly. The two laid there together, panting and basking in the after glow.
Dylan gently removed himself from his lover's embrace and went into the bathroom to clean up. He brought back a warm washcloth for Marco. He wiped him down gently. He felt an overwhelming need to protect and take care of his new lover.
Dylan climbed back into the bed and gathered Marco into his arms. "You okay?"
"Perfect."
"Yes you were."
Marco smacked him lightly but smiled. He loved the fact that there wasn't any awkwardness. "I'm great. This was just what I needed."
Dylan moaned at the admission and kissed Marco on the top of the head, "Me, too."
The boys stayed silent, simply taking pleasure in being together.
Dylan listened as Marco's breathing became deeper and even, signaling his boyfriend had fallen asleep. He smiled in the dark and rubbed a hand down his back. 'This wonderful, sexy, amazing teen is now my lover. That's unreal. I love him. He's perfect. Please don't let me screw this up.' Dylan silently prayed as he held Marco close to him. Dylan fell asleep soon after his prayer had ended.
The boys woke up twice during the night to make love again. It was so new and amazing that neither boy could believe it had actually happened. By the third time, they knew it was real and reveled in every minute of it.
---------------------------------------
Sunday, December 24th had Marco waking up enveloped in his lover's arms. He smiled slightly as he disentangled himself and got out of bed. He groaned softly at the discomfort he felt by moving. He looked over at the sleeping blonde and decided the pain was worth it.
Dylan rolled over in his sleep, half reaching for the boy that just left him.
Marco smiled as he headed for the bathroom and started the shower. As he stepped under the hot spray, Marco felt strong arms wrap around his shoulders. When he jumped, he heard the deep laughter behind him. It was sexy and rough sounding so early in the morning.
"You scared me!"
"Who else would be joining you in the shower?"
"No one but you were asleep when I left you."
"I woke up when you left me."
"How sweet. I'd still be there but I've got some prep work to do before dinner. Now that you're up, you can help."
"I'm not up. I'm sleep walking." Dylan joked.
Marco grasped him firmly in one hand, "You seem to be up to me."
Dylan laughed roughly again as he pulled Marco to him for a hot, wet kiss.
They finished their shower, got dressed, and went downstairs.
Marco started making breakfast for the two of them when the house phone rang. He looked at it oddly but shrugged, "Hello?"
It was Dylan's mom. She was concerned since Chad had already shown up and she figured that's where he spent the night.
Marco gave Dylan a reproachful look as he handed over the phone.
"Hi, Mom. I'm sorry for not telling you. No, we were very adult about being here together. Nothing to shame the family, Mom. I love you too. I'll see you soon." Dylan hung up the phone and met his boyfriend's glare.
"What?"
"We were very adult about being here together and nothing to shame the family?"
"We did what we thought was right and I'm not ashamed of making love with you."
"Yeah, I guess it would be a little weird to tell your mom that we spent the night having sex." Marco admitted setting down 2 plates of bacon and eggs.
They ate, Marco did all the prep work for dinner that night and they headed for the Michalchuk house around 2.
Chad and Paige were cuddled on the front porch swing under a blanket when the two boys pulled up. Chad got up when he realized that Marco had quite a bit to carry into the house.
"Oh, how sweet. He's helping me." Marco said laughing.
Chad shot Marco a look that said he wasn't funny over the stack of presents Marco handed off to him. "Oooo, the one top is for me." Chad said excitedly.
Marco grabbed it off the stack, "Hands off until tomorrow. I know you'll be here again."
Chad rolled his eyes at him and headed for the house.
Dylan took the remainder of the presents and left Marco with the food. Marco picked up the early preparations for dinner and turned. He jumped slightly because Paige was standing directly behind him.
"Sneaking up on me again?"
"Sorry. You got Chad a gift?"
"Where has your head been? You were with me."
"I was."
"Yes."
"Oh. I guess I forgot." Paige said shrugging. She took a container from Marco and turned to lead the way into the house.
Marco and Paige set everything down in the kitchen before entering the living room where everyone seemed to be congregating.
"Paige, Chad will you go wait in the basement for us please." Mrs. Michalchuk asked nicely.
Paige looked at Chad, then her brother and finally Marco, she could see everyone was just as confused. She left with Chad.
"We know you spent the night together last night, you admitted as much. While I don't know what happened, nor do I want to know, but if something did, I hope you were safe." Mrs. Michalchuk began. She didn't want to have this conversation with her son and his boyfriend but knew it was needed.
"Mom, there's nothing to worry about with us. This conversation doesn't need to go any farther." Dylan explained rapidly.
"I think it does need to go farther." Mr. Michalchuk cut in.
"Your father is right. We need to be sure you're aware of all the risks by becoming intimate."
"Mom, stop. You know as well as I do that I know the risks. We've had this discussion before and if you'd like, I can provide dates. Marco knows the risks, right?" Dylan asked looking at the very silent boy next to him.
"Yes. I'm aware of the risks and how to prevent them." Marco assented quietly.
"See, so don't worry. When we decide to be together, we'll be safe."
Mr. and Mrs. Michalchuk nodded reluctantly.
"I need to start dinner. Can I go now?" Marco asked extremely uncomfortable.
Mrs. Michalchuk nodded, "If you need help finding anything, ask. Is there anything I can do to help?"
"No, ma'am. I've got it." Marco said as he got up and headed for the kitchen. He was relieved to escape that scene.
Dylan came in the kitchen about ten minutes later to see Marco busy chopping something on the cutting board. "You okay, babe?"
"Yeah, that was a bizarre conversation."
"This is my third. It doesn't get any easier."
Marco half-laughed at this information, "I don't want to go through that ever again."
"I'll do my best to keep you away from it. Can I help?"
"No. Everything is almost done. I need to put a few things in the oven to cook and finish tossing the salad."
Marco finished fixing the dinner and the family plus Marco and Chad ate dinner.
"This is wonderful. How did you learn to make all of this?" Mrs. Michalchuk exclaimed.
"It's in the blood. My mom taught me how before I could reach the stove."
Dinner ended with conversations regarding plans for the rest of break, what's going on at school and work, and the hockey championship.
Dylan's parents cleaned up the kitchen since Marco cooked and the kids were to clean up after dinner the next night.
The rest of the evening went tamely until sleeping arrangements were discussed for Marco.
Marco waited off to the side listening to the conversation between Dylan and his parents. They finally consented to let Marco sleep in Dylan's room with him.
"How exactly did you win that one?" Marco asked as he reclined next to his boyfriend that night.
"I told them you couldn't sleep downstairs because then Santa would never come." Dylan said laughing.
Marco looked over at him in bewilderment. He couldn't believe that Dylan had actually just said that. He turned and kissed him on the shoulder, "You are quite possibly the goofiest person I've ever met."
"You say that like it's a bad thing."
"Not bad, just different."
"Good night, love."
Good night." Marco said turning on to his side, getting spooned by his boyfriend.
Dylan placed a kiss on the nape of Marco's neck before setting in against him.
The boys quickly fell asleep.
They woke up once and made love quietly while everyone else slept soundly in their beds. It felt naughtier because they had the possibility of getting caught.
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Christmas was an early affair for the Michalchuk household. Paige bounded into Dylan's room at 5:15 that morning. Thank god she didn't enter an hour earlier; she'd have seen something she didn't need to see.
Marco and Dylan pulled on sweatshirts with their pajama pants and followed a very bubbly Paige down the stairs.
"Is she always like this in the morning?"
"Only on Christmas morning, thank God." Dylan responded.
Marco was surprised to see gifts from the Michalchuks for him. He knew he'd bought them a few things but didn't expect anything in return. It was an awakening that he might actually be accepted by this family more than he realized.
Marco managed to keep Dylan's watch and surprise gift separate so he'd open them last.
Dylan had the watch and chain set aside for Marco to open last, too.
After all the presents were opened, Marco smiled, "I have two more for Dylan. Here," he said as he handed over the shiny wrapped presents.
"I have two more for you, too." Dylan said as he gave him two small boxes. "I want you to go first."
Marco opened the watch first and bit his lip trying not to laugh.
"What's wrong?"
"I'm sorry. Nothing, I love it. Paige told you I was looking at it didn't she?"
Dylan nodded.
Marco opened up the chain and was puzzled. "A chain?"
"Yeah. For this," Dylan explained as he held out his class ring.
"You want me to wear your ring?" Marco asked incredulously.
"Yes. I want everyone to know we're together."
"I'd like nothing more," Marco responded slipping the ring on the chain.
Dylan leaned over and fastened the chain around his neck. The ring rested just under Marco's crucifix.
"Now open yours." Marco commanded.
Dylan opened the watch and gasped. "This is the most spectacular watch I've ever seen. It almost matches yours."
Marco laughed, "Yep, it's close. Yours is titanium, virtually indestructible."
"You know our son well. He can destroy almost anything." Mrs. Michalchuk said on a laugh.
Paige was getting impatient to see what was in the bigger box. It was the only gift she didn't have knowledge about before today. "Open the last one."
"You mean you don't know what it is?"
"No. That's the one he wouldn't tell me about."
Dylan laughed and picked up the big box. He shook it lightly, like a kid. "I know, it's clothes."
"Open the box, Dylan," this came from his dad.
Dylan opened the box and stared at the contents inside. He blinked twice in disbelief and turned to look at Marco, who had moved away.
"You're kidding me right?"
"No."
"This is authentic?"
"Yes. There's more to it, too."
The three other Michalchuks were straining to see what's sitting in Dylan's lap.
"What is it?" Paige nearly screamed at her brother.
Dylan shook his head to clear it, "Oh, sorry." He held up an official play-off jersey of the Toronto Maple Leafs, signed by each player with personal messages to Dylan.
Dylan looked down and saw the rest of his present, six tickets to the Stanley Cup, featuring none other than the Toronto Maple Leafs.
"Marco, this was way too much. Wait a minute; these tickets are on the ice next to the Maple Leafs bench. Those are prime seats."
"You're worth it. I pulled a few strings. Not a big deal." Marco said shrugging.
Dylan set the box aside and launched himself at his boyfriend. He pinned Marco to the ground kissing him fiercely. "Thank you. I don't know how to repay you for this one. I love you."
"I love you too but I'd love you more if you'd get off. You're heavy."
Mrs. Michalchuk laughed at her son's enthusiasm over the tickets, "Honey, get off Marco, he can't breathe."
Dylan slid of his boyfriend, pulling him into a sitting position on his lap. He hugged him tightly. "I don't know how to express my thanks for this. It's the best present I've ever gotten."
Marco nodded.
"How many tickets did you get, son?" Mr. Michalchuk asked.
"He's got six." Marco answered for Dylan when he looked at him for the answer.
"Oh good, Mom and Dad can come with us and of course Paige and Chad."
"My thoughts exactly when I requested six."
Chad came over later that day to exchange presents with his girlfriend and friends.
The four teens hung out around the basement, watching the new movies they'd gotten and playing new video games.
Marco got up at two and excused himself. Dylan tossed the controller to Paige and followed him out.
"Where are you going?"
"Mass. I may not go every week but I'll feel guilty all year if I don't go on Christmas day."
"Can I go with you?"
"If you want. You've got to dress appropriately."
Marco and Dylan went upstairs to change clothes and then headed for Marco's church.
They got home just in time for dinner.
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A few days after Christmas Paige, Chad, Marco and Dylan went back to the mall to exchange bad or ill-fitting Christmas gifts.
Marco needed to get links taken out of his watch, which was in the opposite direction of the rest of the stores that they needed.
"It's okay. I'll go and meet you in a few minutes." Marco told Dylan.
Marco got his watch fixed and wandered slowly back to where Dylan, Chad and Paige were exchanging gifts.
He felt someone watching him as he browsed a display in the window of a bookstore. He turned to see someone vaguely familiar. He couldn't figure out why he knew him but knew he did.
"Hi," the stranger said.
"Hello."
"Shopping or returning?"
"Neither. Links needed to be removed from my new watch."
"Boyfriend give it to you?"
"Yes. How did you know?"
"The ring on the chain."
"Oh."
"So, you want to give me your number? We could get together and forget about him."
"No."
"He can't be better looking than me."
"Yes, he is." Marco said as he walked away.
The stranger followed him until they were in the center of the mall.
"You know you want me. That's why you are running away."
"I'm not running away from you, however, I'm trying to get away because you're annoying me."
Chad walked down the walkway and saw Marco talking to someone. As he got closer, he saw it was Charles. He watched as Charles grabbed Marco's shoulder to hold him in front of him. Chad turned and saw Dylan approaching him and waved him to hurry up.
"I think we might have a situation." Chad explained pointing across the atrium.
Dylan looked at where he was pointing and did a double take. He couldn't believe he was seeing Charles with his hand on Marco.
Chad grabbed him before he could rush over, "If we're going to do this, we'd better be smart about it."
"There's no we on this one Chad. This is my fight. He's my boyfriend and that's my ex. End of story, no room for negotiations." Dylan said removing Chad's hand forcefully and stalking toward the other two boys. His heart was pounding and he could hear his blood rushing through his ears.
Marco saw him approach and it finally clicked who was holding his shoulder, "You're Charles." It was more a statement that a question.
"How did you know?" asked Charles as he felt a hand clamp over his shoulder tightly.
"I suggest you remove your hand from my boyfriend."
"Dylan. Didn't know he was your latest infatuation."
"Now you do. Go away."
"Yep, now I do and that makes him more interesting. He'll ask me to leave when he's ready."
"He's ready to ask you to leave." Marco supplied.
Dylan grinned menacingly, "See. So go before you do something you'll regret."
"He doesn't want you to know he was ready to give me his number before he saw you."
Dylan looked at Marco's horrified and disgusted face and laughed, "I remember that look. I look at you the same way now. He's got the real thing, why'd he want a very cheap imitation?"
"You're the cheap imitation. I pitied you so I broke you into gay life. You were nothing before me."
Dylan scoffed, "Funny thing, you're worse than nothing without me." Dylan raised his fist and hit Charles square in the jaw after Charles took a swing at him connecting with his shoulder.
He was holding him up by the shirt and kept hitting him until blood oozed from his nose, lip, cheek and above his eyebrow. Dylan let go of his shirt and Charles fell to the ground, moaning in pain.
Dylan stepped over him and walked out the doors of the mall. Marco, Chad and Paige followed him out after watching him lose control and pummel his ex-boyfriend into the ground.
Marco grabbed Dylan's hand to get him to stop moving.
Dylan turned on him with fury in his eyes, "Why were you talking to him?"
"I didn't recognize him. I've only seen him once for three seconds on the other side of your door. I wasn't even paying attention to him that day."
Dylan sat down on the curb in front of the car and sighed, "Shit, I'm sorry. I forgot you didn't know Charles. I saw you talking to him and he had his hands on you and I freaked. I know you'd never cheat on me, especially with my ex."
Marco was angry and confused by Dylan's outburst so he didn't say anything. He moved away when Dylan reached for him.
Dylan looked confused at Marco's withdraw. "I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking. Can you forgive me?" Dylan was pleading. The look on Marco's face scared him. He looked angry, hurt, and even betrayed.
"I don't know, Dylan. I need some time." Marco got in his car and left Paige to deal with a now crying Dylan. He drove home in a fog of anger, confusion and hurt. He needed some time to adjust to this new side of his boyfriend he hadn't known existed.
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Kate- Thank you for the input on this chapter. I know you love it. I hope the story can continue in the same way. I hope everything's getting better for you. I love you, you know that. I appreciate the support and inspiration more than you could ever know. sending mental waves to continue Run but Never Hide (is that it?)
Ashley- What can I say? I'll try harder at not being the human thesaurus, even though you love the thesaurus...(still confused by that...) Thanks for calling off the clowns, they were terrifying. You forgot one by the way and I had to send the cowboy after him. (Dylan wanted you to know, he's misplaced his towel again.) grins
Please review. It doesn't hurt...no needles or anything like that. Suggestions are welcome, comments necessary to the development process are greatly enjoyed and of course, the lovely reviews are always appreciated.