A/N: Sorry it took so long to update but I've been extremely busy with work and college. I'll try to be better with the next chapter.
Wow! I got a ton of reviews for Chapter Ten. Thank you so much. I saw a few new reviewers and I thank you greatly.
Adamo4eva201, MarcoandDylanLuva, Lauren Williams, Ravyn Jayne, BlueBabyBre, Lizzy, man freakzoid, dinderoti, drew's baby, dexter, anonymus, SmoothNCreamy, raven4darkness, Tasha, SkittlezzChika, Chihir-love-Haku, Roxie 24....Thank you, thank you and thank you again.
This chapter is dedicated to VixenDragon16 even though she won't be reading it. I'll try and do her story justice for those of you who wanted me to continue it.
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Chapter Eleven
Dylan looked down at Marco and smiled, "Marco..."
"Dylan?" Marco looked at him strangely.
Dylan sighed, "This is strange. I've never dated one of my teammates before."
Marco looked at him worriedly, "You're scaring me."
"Sorry. I just don't know how to act. This is totally new to me."
"Yeah, me too. Why don't we try and act just like teammates while we're in here? No kissing, or any of those other things boyfriends do while they're together." Marco said.
"Sounds like a good idea. Let's go!" Dylan held out his hand.
Marco shook his head at him and laughed, "Do you normally hold another teammate's hand?"
Dylan closed his eyes and dropped his hand, "Would you believe yes?"
They got through practice and the meeting with the help of Chad. He sat between the two boys to make a barrier between them. He knew Dylan's feelings for Marco and figured it was safer.
Armstrong kept looking at Marco almost fearfully during the entire practice. He kept shooting nervous looks at Dylan, too. He couldn't help it any longer, when practice ended he requested a meeting with the two in his office.
Dylan looked at Marco, who was trying not to laugh. He knew the conversation from his class was fresh in his mind and it was killing him.
Dylan and Marco entered Coach Armstrong's office and sat down to wait for him.
"Do you know what this is about?" Dylan asked.
"Yes."
"Care to clue me in?"
"No."
Armstrong walked in and shut the door behind him. He sat down at his desk and sighed. "This is a new situation for me. I've never had to deal with two of my players dating before and I'm not sure I like it."
He held up a hand when it appeared Dylan was going to interrupt. "Let me finish. I'd never tell anyone who to date so I'm not starting with you. I just don't want to hear another conversation like I was subjected to earlier, Marco. I noticed you were very...distanced from each other at practice today and I appreciate it. Is this how you're going to play it off?"
Marco and Dylan looked at each other. Dylan clearly confused and Marco nodding, "Yes, sir. Everyone knows we're dating but we'll keep the touchy feely stuff at home. As for the conversation, I'll talk to Paige."
Armstrong nodded and shooed the boys out of the office.
Dylan looked at Marco, "What conversation?"
"Paige figured out where I was and what I was doing when I disappeared during study hall. She, Ellie and Ash were discussing it in Armstrong's class." Marco said simply as he pulled off his t-shirt to change back into his other clothes.
Dylan looked back at Armstrong's office and then at Marco, he was stunned. "My sister was discussing my sex life in front of my coach?"
"No, technically she was discussing my sex life...yours was by association."
Dylan shook his head and walked around the corner where his locker was located. He stood there in silence, dumbfounded for a moment and then began changing his clothes.
He saw Marco come around the corner and lean against the lockers. He was finishing changing, waiting for Marco to say something.
"I know Paige went overboard today. I think she'll lay off now, well, I hope she will anyway."
Dylan scoffed, "Paige won't ever lay off as long as we're dating. She's way too interested and now she's got Chad interested too."
"No, I think Chad was interested all on his own. Paige just encourages him to get more involved. Come on, let's get out of here before Armstrong comes looking for us."
Dylan laughed and grabbed Marco by the arm, pulling him out of the locker room. He got him outside the door and kissed him. "No longer teammates, I can do that all I want."
Marco rolled his eyes, "Okay, Romeo. You've got a test to study for."
Marco and Dylan went to Dylan's house to study because Chad needed help too. Marco helped them out and then Dylan heard the front door open and Paige shout to find out who's home.
Dylan got up and ran up the stairs. He had a few choice words for his sister before she got wrapped up in Chad.
Marco looked at Chad with a raised eyebrow, "I don't get greeted like that."
"I'll try harder next time." Chad said with a huge grin.
Marco laughed, "You might want to give him a minute with her and then go rescue her from Dylan. He's not happy with her for discussing our sex life in Armstrong's class."
"She did what?"
"You heard me. He overheard and wasn't thrilled with the turn of conversation."
"No wonder he looked so freaked today. The guys were betting it was because you are dating another player."
Marco nodded, "Yeah, that's part of it."
Chad put his hand on Marco's shoulder, "Dude, it'll be okay. Armstrong'll deal as long as you keep your distance from lover boy, at least during practice." Chad looked at him pensively for a second before adding, "Yeah and in the locker room and showers, too."
Marco scratched his head and looked at Chad in bewilderment, "Did you honestly just say that to me?"
"Yes." Chad replied with stark honesty. "I don't care and I'm sure most of the other guys wouldn't care as long as they didn't have to watch, but Armstrong would freak if he even thought that was going on in his locker room."
"Interesting way of putting it. I wouldn't do anything too bad in the locker room anyway, unless I was sure it was empty." Marco told him with a lecherous grin.
Chad laughed at him, "You're an interesting friend to have, do you know that? I better go rescue Paige, Dylan's had her long enough."
Marco raised a hand and was about to say something.
Chad cut him off, "Dude, don't go there...that's wrong on so many levels." Marco laughed as Chad bounced up the stairs.
Dylan confronted Paige before she even reached the living room. "Why are you discussing my sex life?"
"Nice to see you too, hun. What are you talking about?"
"In Armstrong's class, you were discussing my sex life." Dylan told her tersely.
"No, I wasn't. I was talking about Marco. Your name was never mentioned." Paige said flippantly.
"Don't get smart with me, Paige. You were talking about Marco and unless I'm mistaken, his only partner is me, so by association talking about me." Dylan slapped a hand over her mouth as she was about to interrupt, "Not this time, little sis. I don't know why you have this fascination with my love life but it has got to end."
Paige looked at him questioningly until he removed his hand, "Thank you for removing your hand. I wasn't really talking about your sex life, I was questioning Marco about where he was in third period. He was sitting down rather gently afterward so I made an accusation that he never completely denied. It went from there."
"Armstrong is annoyed at us and it's only the first day of practice. He got that way by overhearing your conversation about Marco and me. He doesn't want to overhear anything like that again and I would appreciate it if he didn't have to. As my sister and Marco's friend, please keep this outside of the classrooms and preferably outside the school."
"Why should I keep your sex life out of the school when you don't?" Paige asked cattily.
Chad walked in on that particular phrase and stopped. He looked between the two, "Please tell me I missed something on that statement?"
"No, Dylan and Marco had sex during third period today." Paige said without a care. Dylan groaned.
"So, that's where you bailed to during English. Good idea." Chad said almost proudly.
"On that note, I think I shall return to my boyfriend." Dylan said leaving the room. He overheard the other two laughing at his discomfort at being discovered.
Marco was lounging on the couch when Dylan came back downstairs. He was reading a book and taking idle notes about important passages.
Dylan stood at the door and watched him for a minute with a small smile. He loved the boy on the couch more than he'd realized before but maybe his feelings had grown over the months since they met. It was quite possible. He couldn't stand it any longer, just watching him. He had to be close to him.
Marco smiled as Dylan approached the couch. He looked up at the older blonde with such love and affection in his eyes. The same look was reflected in the eyes of his lover.
Dylan leaned down and plucked the book out of Marco's hand and laid it on the table behind him. Dylan kneeled next to the couch and placed a chaste kiss on Marco's lips. When he pulled away before the kiss could progress, Marco moaned and reached for him. Dylan deftly dodged Marco's grasp.
"Why did you move away?" Marco asked pouting."I don't want to start anything I can't finish down here. I think we should take this upstairs." Dylan told him patiently.
"What about your parents? Aren't they due home soon?"
"No, they have a dinner thing tonight and won't be home until around 11, they said." Dylan explained standing up. "If you're that concerned we can always go to your house."
Marco stood up and smiled, "No, here is fine."
They walked up the stairs to Dylan's room. Dylan closed the door behind them and leaned against it. He watched as Marco walked over to the bed and sit down.
"What?" Marco asked when he saw Dylan watching him.
"Nothing." Dylan responded shaking his head.
"Then why are you staring at me?"
"You're cute," Dylan said shrugging.
Marco cocked an eyebrow at him and patted the bed next to him.
Dylan walked over and sat down next to him but didn't touch him or look at him.
"Are you okay? Did something happen between you and Paige?" Marco inquired taking Dylan's hand in his.
"Hmm? No, I'm fine. Kind of tired." Dylan admitted reluctantly.
"We don't have to do anything. I'm happy just being here with you." Marco said cheesily.
"You are hopeless." Dylan smiled.
"Yeah, that occurred after I met you by the way."
Dylan smiled as he leaned back onto the bed. He reached out and pulled Marco down by the back of his shirt. He pulled Marco onto his chest and into his arms.
Marco went willingly into Dylan's arms and snuggled into the older boy. "Mmm. I like this."
"What do you like?"
"Being here, in your arms. I feel loved." Marco murmured against Dylan's chest.
"That's because you are loved. Greatly." Dylan told him and kissed him on the head.
Marco tilted his head sideways for a kiss. He received a gentle kiss on the lips and then one on the forehead. "I love you."
Dylan smiled and half-laughed, "I know. I love you too. I wish I could express how much."
"If it's anything like how I feel, I understand."
"Awe, how cute." Chad said from the doorway.
"Do you believe in knocking?" Dylan asked. "We could have been doing something you might not want to see."
"I don't think there's anything you would be doing that I wouldn't want to see. Wait, that sounded wrong." Chad stood there for a second. "Whatever, you know what I mean. I didn't hear any noises coming from here so I figured it was safe. And, dude, lock the door next time." Chad beamed at him.
Dylan raised his head again and peered at Chad over Marco's shoulder, "Was there a reason for this intrusion?"
"Yes, I want to know how Marco feels about you." Chad took in Dylan's annoyed expression, "Sorry, Paige sent me up here to see about dinner. What do you want to order? Your parents left money."
"You want something to eat?" Dylan asked Marco.
"No, I'm gonna go soon. My parents should be calling tonight, anyway. That and you need some rest." Marco replied, not moving off of Dylan yet.
"Order whatever Paige wants. She knows what I'll eat." Dylan said on a sigh.
"Yeah, but Marco's off the menu tonight. Can we have a second choice?" Chad said laughing.
Dylan lobbed a pillow at him as he shut the door.
"Why am I friends with him?" Dylan said exasperatedly.
"Because you've known him all your life and he stuck with you through the rough times." Marco responded to the rhetorical question.
Dylan chuckled lightly as he stroked Marco's back. "We've got to get up or you won't be going anywhere because I'm getting way too content."
Marco slid off of his boyfriend and stood up next to the bed. He held out a hand to help Dylan into a sitting position.
The boys descended the stairs to the living room and Dylan walked Marco out to his car.
"Goodnight, love." Marco said unlocking his car.
"Not so fast," Dylan said pulling Marco against him. He kissed him deeply and then released him. "Now you can go. Good night, sweetheart. I'll see you in the morning."
Marco nodded as he slid behind the wheel. Dylan stood in the driveway and watched as his lover drove out of sight. He sighed and walked back in the house.
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The next few weeks flew by for Marco, Dylan, Chad and Paige. It involved practices, homework, study groups, and some mild forms of entertainment.
One day, Paige looked at her calendar and it read February 1. She freaked. She hadn't been thinking about Valentine's Day and now it was quickly approaching.
Marco watched a blonde tornado whirl into first period and stop in front of his desk.
"Good morning, Paige. What can I do for you?" Marco asked trying not to laugh at her unusual state of chaotic confusion.
"We have to go shopping today. It's only two weeks until Valentine's Day!" Paige fairly screamed at him.
"Paige, hun, chill. It'll be okay. I have practice after school but we can go after that." Marco said patiently.
"Did your parents ever come home?" Paige asked as if it just dawned on her.
"No, they called a week ago and said they had to extend their stay because my grandmother got worse." Marco told her coldly.
"Okay, sorry I asked." Paige said as she turned away.
He grabbed her arm, "I'm sorry if that sounded rude but it's them, and my grandmother hates me." Marco shrugged.
"I'm so sorry. I didn't know." Paige said reaching out a hand to him.
Marco laughed at her. "It's okay. She doesn't hate me because I'm gay, she's always hated me."
Paige looked almost relieved at that information. "So, shopping after practice today?"
"Yes, the mall after practice today. Are we inviting our boyfriends?"
"No."
Marco nodded as Paige took her seat a few rows in front of him.
That afternoon, Marco had just finished his shower in the locker room and wrapped a towel around his waist. He felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to find a very naked Dylan standing there. Marco couldn't hide the note of approval in his gaze as he looked over his lover. He quickly shook his head to rid himself of his wayward thoughts.
"What are you doing?" Marco asked innocently.
"I just thought that since it's just the two of us left in here...well, and Chad but he's all the way on the other side of the locker room, I'd come over and visit." Dylan said with the most innocent look he could manage.
Marco put his hands on Dylan's pecs and pushed him gently away. "No, back away. I have to meet your sister in 15 minutes."
Dylan rolled his eyes and grabbed a towel, "Fine. I'll go bother Chad."
Chad screamed from the other side, "No you won't. Chad doesn't want to be bothered by you today."
Marco and Dylan looked in the direction the voice came from and laughed.
Marco got dressed and went to find Paige waiting for him by the car. She was bouncing up and down on her heels like she had energy to spare. He laughed as he approached, "Oh look my date awaits."
"Get in the car. I'm cold." Paige demanded.
"Well, then let's get going, princess." Marco joked.
"You'd know one, wouldn't you, queen?" Paige joked back.
"I am not a queen." Marco said clearly affronted.
Paige smiled at him.
The rest of the ride was spent in mild humor between the two friends.
Marco and Paige scoured the mall for the perfect Valentine's Day gifts. Paige was having an easier time with it than Marco, she didn't have a lot to live up to yet.
Marco on the other hand, had Christmas to contend with this time. He'd really outdone himself on the presents then. There was one gift that was going to be from the four teens that Marco had already purchased; a romantic four-day trip to a bed and breakfast six hours away for the Michalchuk parents.
That was mainly because Marco wanted to give Paige and Chad a night alone and he wanted to be alone with Dylan, preferably in separate houses.
Marco finally decided to get Dylan the most perfect sweater the exact color of his eyes and a ring. Marco was afraid of what the ring might symbolize to Dylan but then figured what the hell. He knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with him and didn't care how he took the ring.
"What is the ring for, hun?" Paige inquired.
"For Dylan's Valentine's Day gift."
"Duh comes to mind but is it a promise ring, an engagement ring or just a ring?" she questioned getting impatient.
"I don't know yet. I'd like it to be a promise ring, maybe even an engagement ring but he might just see it as a ring." Marco told her.
Paige sighed loudly, "Marco, engrave it with exactly how you want him to take it. Let him know how you feel, permanently."
Marco smiled at her like she had lost her mind. "Umm, Paige? What exactly would you engrave if it were you?"
Paige stared at him for a second while she pondered that particular question. "I'd have 'I love you forever' engraved. Or something like that..."
Marco turned to the jeweler and asked to have the ring engraved. "I want it to say 'I'll always love you, Marco' and when can I get it back?"
The jeweler told him that it would be ready the next day after 2.
Marco nodded his thanks and left the store after charging everything to his credit card.
Paige wandered around the mall with Marco for a little while. She wandered through clothing stores looking for the perfect dress for Valentine's Day. She needed two outfits; one for school and one for dinner with Chad.
Marco laughed as she tried on everything in her perfect size two. Marco was trying to convince her to buy this red sweater with a really cute black skirt for school but she wasn't sure yet. It looked perfect on her...but it's her decision.
In the end, Paige ended up buying the sweater and skirt and a really sexy red dress that was modest enough for a 16 year-old but sexy enough to turn heads. Exactly what she had been looking for.
While Paige and Marco shopped, Dylan and Chad hung out at the Michalchuk house in the basement, playing video games.
"So, it's been a while since it's been, like, just the two of us." Chad said after some silence descended on the room.
Dylan glanced away from the TV to look at his friend, "Yeah, either we hang out as couples or not at all anymore. We need to put a stop to that and still hang as friends."
Chad cracked a mischievous smile, "Yeah, but one thing dude. Paige is a better kisser so no more funny business."
Dylan played into it, "But I Love You...and I've loved you longer. You can't leave me for her," he delivered it with such conviction that Chad laughed.
The boys were rolling on the floor with tears rolling down their faces when Marco and Paige came home.
"Guess they didn't miss us much, hun." Paige said turning to Marco.
Marco looked at the two on the floor in bewilderment.
Chad stopped laughing long enough to gasp out, "Dylan definitely missed Marco...he's been trying to molest me."
Dylan lunged at Chad and tried to wrestle him back to the ground and keep him quiet.
When Dylan was sitting on Chad's back, Marco tapped him lightly on the shoulder.
Dylan looked up and beamed a huge smile at his boyfriend.
"Babe, I know it's been a while but Chad's straight. He doesn't like you like that."
This threw Dylan off guard long enough for Chad to upend him and run to hide behind Paige. She was laughing hysterically at the horse play between her brother and his best friend. She didn't realize how much she missed watching it until actually seeing it again.
The boys looked at her and grinned when she admitted as much.
Dylan looked at Chad over her shoulder and saw the gleam in his eyes, he knew he was up to something.
Chad grabbed Paige and tossed her on the couch, tickling her mercilessly. She was screaming with laughter.
Marco laughed at the childish display. Dylan got his own ideas right about then.
He stood up and tossed Marco over his shoulder and ran up the stairs to his bedroom. He lightly tossed Marco onto his bed and straddled his thighs in a swift move.
Marco laughed at his playful nature. "I think you did miss me," Marco thought for a second, "or Chad really did get you worked up and I'm the only one who is available."
"No, you're the only one who turns me on anymore. Granted you are readily available..." Dylan teased lightly.
Marco slapped him lightly on the chest. "Maybe I won't be readily available anymore."
With that said Dylan leaned down and kissed him firmly on the lips.
The kiss got longer and more passionate with each passing moment.
Marco was really starting to get into it when he heard a knock on Dylan's bedroom door a second before it opened.
Dylan collapsed to the side of Marco and looked toward the door. Paige stood there grinning at them. "Oh, damn, it looks like I interrupted too early. I was hoping for a show."
"I'm starting to hate my house." Dylan told Marco seriously.
"Yeah, tomorrow, my house after practice." Marco told him.
Dylan nodded before looking back to his sister. "What do you want, squirt?"
"Mom and Dad are pulling into the driveway, thought you'd want to know."
"Thanks, now leave." Dylan said as Marco sat up. "Where do you think you are going?" Dylan inquired as he pulled Marco back down.
Marco giggled lightly as Dylan nuzzled his neck, "Stop it, that tickles. I was getting up because your parents are home."
"The door is open and we aren't doing anything we haven't done on the couch downstairs while they were in the next room. Relax and enjoy."
Marco nuzzled into Dylan again but quickly moved when his cell phone vibrated in his pocket.
Dylan laughed, "Wow! Excellent timing for the vibration."
Marco chuckled as he looked at the caller id and groaned. "It's my parents. I wonder if they're coming home." He answered it as he sat up on the bed.
Dylan sat up with him and pulled him to lean against him as he talked to his parents.
The conversation only lasted a few minutes but it sounded like it was lasting forever to Marco, at least in Dylan's opinion. He felt the younger boy tense after the pleasantries had been dispensed. This was a bad news phone call.
Marco hung up the phone and turned in Dylan's arms and cuddled into him. He sighed loudly but didn't speak.
Dylan just held him in quiet comfort, stroking his hand up and down his lover's back. Dylan knew it was bad but was curious as to what was so bad.
About twenty minutes later, Dylan's mom knocked on the doorframe. Finding her son holding his boyfriend in comfort knocked the breath out of her. "Honey, dinner will be ready in twenty minutes."
Marco jumped at the sound of Mrs. Michalchuk's voice breaking the silence.
Dylan smoothed a hand down his back, "Okay, Mom. Thanks. We'll be down in a minute or two."
Mrs. Michalchuk smiled at her son and left the doorway.
Marco pulled away from Dylan and kissed him lightly on his lips. "I am going home now. I'm sorry but I don't feel up to facing your parents."
Dylan looked concerned, "Will you at least tell me what's wrong?"
Marco sighed again, "Later, just not now." He looked almost broken.
Dylan nodded and hugged him tightly.
They walked out to Marco's car together after he said his goodbyes to Paige, Chad, and Mr. and Mrs. Michalchuk.
"Call me if you need to talk." Dylan told him placing a kiss on Marco's forehead.
Marco smiled slightly and leaned up for a kiss. He received a gentle one before sliding into his car.
Marco drove home and entered his extremely empty house. He wandered room to room, just looking at his house. He'd lived here since he was eight and they moved from Italy, but it hadn't actually felt like a home in over three years. It felt more like a weigh station, like he was just passing through now. He entered his bedroom and lay down on the bed, staring at the ceiling. He was hoping that the empty house not a home feeling would change soon.
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Marco got through the next day of school in relative silence. He was still troubled by the news his parents delivered the day before. His grandmother was dying, this time was the end.
He wasn't sure how to feel though. He hadn't seen her since they moved to Canada and she still made it known he wasn't welcome around her. He felt like he should be sad, maybe regretful, or even remorseful but he was numb. He had no feelings toward the news at all. This fact worried him more than anything. He was wondering if he was becoming emotionless.
That thought was brought to a quick stop when he saw Dylan. The love he felt for the older boy assured him he still had a heart. He still had feelings. He was okay but still numb towards his grandmother.
He mentally shrugged as he walked into the gym for practice.
Dylan kept stealing worried and concerned glances throughout practice. Marco had avoided him at lunch and then again before practice. Paige told him Marco had spaced all day and it didn't look good for him.
Marco felt Dylan watching him and tried not to let it get to him. He'd explain soon enough but now wasn't the time.
Dylan cornered Marco in the shower after practice. Chad was standing guard two stalls over from them.
"Marco, is everything okay?"
A very wet, naked Marco turned to see his boyfriend sharing his shower stall. "What do you mean?"
"You've avoided me all day, you were spacing in class according to Paige, and you didn't say two words during practice unless it was to Armstrong...I want to know what's going on! I love you!" Dylan all but yelled at him.
The words echoed off the tile walls back at Marco. He flinched at the words that he normally cherished. "Dylan, I know you love me and you know I love you but this is not something I want to discuss right now. I've got an errand to run today and then I'm going home. I was hoping you might be there when I get there. Then, we can finish this conversation, now is not the time." Marco said sternly.
"Now never seems to be the time for you. I am concerned." Dylan closed his eyes and heaved a huge sigh.
"Dylan, look at me. I'm standing here naked and wet, now definitely isn't the time to tell you what is wrong. I'm already exposed, this might kill me." Marco pleaded with the love of his life.
Dylan saw the look and nodded, "Fine, I'll be waiting for you at your house. We will finish this."
Marco smiled at him and leaned up for a kiss.
Chad broke through, "Dudes, not here. You can do that later."
Marco and Dylan looked over at their friend and laughed.
"Chad, behave your dirty mind, it was only a kiss." Marco explained to him.
"Dude, I know where your kissing leads...it's not the right place." Chad countered back.
Marco and Dylan wrapped towels around their waists and headed for the locker room.
They both dressed and went their separate ways; Dylan to Marco's house and Marco to the mall to pick up Dylan's ring.
Marco entered his house about an hour later and found Dylan camped out on his couch attempting to do his homework. He stood in the door watching as the blonde drug his hand through his hair again...and again in frustration at the Calculus problem before him.
Dylan was ready to throw his Calculus book when a noise from behind him distracted him. He saw Marco walking into the room with a beatific smile on his face.
"Having difficulties with the Calculus again? Let's take a look at it." Marco said hoping for a diversion.
"No, later. Now, I get to know what's wrong." Dylan said sitting up, pulling Marco onto his lap.
"Dylan..."
"No, you promised we'd discuss this later."
"My grandmother is on death's door. She's finally dying and it's no longer a threat, it's a promise. The problem with this, I feel numb. I don't know what to feel but all I know is that I'm numb." Marco explained emotionlessly.
Dylan looked shocked at first by Marco's tone and the news but he quickly recovered. "You're in shock I'm sure. You'll feel something once it's sunk in that she's going to be gone."
Marco nodded his agreement, even though he didn't feel it. He just wanted this conversation to disappear. And soon it did.
The next two weeks passed quickly once again with practices and games. Marco spoke to his parents daily about his grandmother, even though he still felt numb about the whole thing.
The next thing Marco knew it was Valentine's Day. He dressed with care that morning because of the day. He was giving Dylan one gift at school because it was expected but was keeping the ring until tonight.
Dylan had butterflies in his stomach when he woke up that morning. He knew that it being their first Valentine's Day together and it had to be special.
School was buzzing once again with teen age sugar highs and love. Well, for some kids, the antipathy towards love and all things red.
Paige ran up to Marco and smiled, "You were so right, hun. This outfit is amazing." She did a quick spin for him and her brother.
Dylan laughed and Marco smiled, "Never doubt the gay guy on fashion advice."
"Stereotype."
"Jock"
"Nerd"
"Yeah, but you love me" Marco replied to Dylan's last affectionate insult. Dylan smiled at him.
"Ugh, you boys are nauseating." Paige said with affection.
They got through another day of distraction from lessons, teachers and general scholastic activities.
By last period the school was vibrating with promises of that evening, of dates, and going further in relationships and even of anti-Valentine's Day plans with friends.
The teachers had long given up hope of teaching their students anything new. They enjoyed the down time and chose to have fun with the students. 'If you can't beat 'em, join 'em' kind of a thing.
Marco and Dylan went to their separate houses before their impending date to get ready.
Marco put his pre-made lasagna into the oven with the garlic bread. He tossed a salad and went to take a shower.
He had just finished getting dressed and was taking out the lasagna and bread when he heard the front door open. Marco set the pasta dish on the stove as he felt strong arms wrap around his waist. He leaned back and was surprised that it wasn't the usual chest he was used to leaning against.
Marco started laughing. "What are you doing here? My boyfriend will be here any minute."
"Shh. You know you'd rather be with me."
"Of course I would but Dylan's due any moment, you need to leave." Marco said stifling his laugh.
"Fine, I guess I'll return to my girlfriend then." Chad said with a smile.
Marco shook his head, "I guess you want the gift you stashed here last week."
"Yep."
Marco went upstairs to retrieve the gift and heard the door opening as he descended again.
"Hey, you aren't my boyfriend." Dylan exclaimed as he saw Chad.
"I was once but you dropped me for Marco." Chad teased.
"You'll always be my first love but you know you've moved on to my sister." Dylan teased back.
"Sorry, but Paige is a sad substitute for you." Marco said entering the kitchen.
"All I got was a sweater and he gets something shiny?" Dylan questioned as Marco handed over the gift.
"It's for Paige, numbskull." Marco answered, placing a kiss on Dylan's cheek.
Chad left and the two lovers continued with their planned evening.
After dinner, Marco had the sitting room set up for a surprise. He led Dylan up the stairs and into the room with his eyes closed. He sat him on the couch and told him to open his eyes.
Dylan looked around at the lit candles, heard the music softly playing in the background and three boxes on the table; a large, medium and small one.
Marco smiled, "Pick one."
Dylan shook his head, "Me first." He handed Marco over a card.
Marco opened the card and smiled, "A lifetime of love and devotion. A massage after our final game. Sounds good, only if it's naked..."
Dylan agreed to the new terms. And then gained an excited look as he peered at the three boxes.
"I only get to choose one?"
"Only one. Whichever you choose will be yours, the other two will be put away until later." Marco explained.
Dylan pointed to the big one and found a card inside. "Look for your next clue at the place we first kissed." He rose an eyebrow at Marco but shrugged and got up.
"Did I mention one box contained a scavenger hunt?" Marco questioned.
Dylan smiled and walked to the foyer of Marco's house and found the next card, 'Go back and open 'Leaves of Grass' on my shelf.'
Marco was standing at the top of the stairs as he walked back up them with a confused look on his face.
It suddenly dawned on him, "Walt Whitman, leaves of grass, gay...I get it now."
Marco laughed.
Dylan ran around Marco's room looking for the book and found it on the shelf where it was supposed to be located. He flipped through the pages and found his third clue, 'Open the small box in the sitting room.'
Dylan opened the small box and looked inside. 'Tell me you love me.'
Dylan read it twice, 'odd request but okay.' "I love you."
Marco laughed, "I meant to me, not the box."
Dylan grinned, "It said tell me you love me...I thought it was odd but who am I to judge. I love you."
Marco smiled a sweet smile, "Open the last box."
Dylan did as he was told and started pulling out scarves of different colors and textures, "Is this some sort of fetish I should know about by now?"
"No, just keep digging. However, I will be using those later."
Dylan finally reached the bottom of the box and saw a note taped to the bottom, 'turn around and look at me'.
Marco had the ring box in his hand as Dylan turned.
Dylan saw what he was holding and looked shocked. "Is that?"
"Just open it." Marco said holding it out to him.
Dylan opened it and found a beautiful white gold band and then read the inscription. He smiled through his tears as looked at his lover and best friend. A mixture of emotions were flashing behind the beautiful blue eyes, fear, hope, shock and most of all, love.
Marco looked at him with love shining in his eyes, waiting for anything. "What do you think?"
"Is this a proposal or am I jumping the gun?" Dylan asked tenderly.
"Not a proposal yet. I want it to be a promise ring." Marco said taking the ring and slipping it onto Dylan's hand.
They made love twice before finally succumbing to the much needed sleep that had been threatening to claim them all week.
Meanwhile at the Michalchuk residence, Paige and Chad were having their own romantic dinner. Chad had ordered food in because he wasn't Marco and couldn't cook. Actually, he didn't want to either. He had tentative plans depending on Paige.
Paige was nervous. She'd changed and redid her hair and makeup after school for this date. She'd taken a lot of time to look perfect for Chad. This was the night she was going to lose her reclaimed virginity.
Dinner was nice but awkward. Each half of the couple wasn't sure what to say or do because of revealing a secret that wasn't ready to surface yet.
Paige got up and led the way into the living room, where she stashed her present for him and a card that said it all.
Chad handed over a box to her and sat down as she stared at the shiny purple paper in her lap. She opened the box and found a beautiful shirt. "Oh, hun. This is gorgeous." She stood up to hug him but he stopped her.
"Take the shirt out, there's more."
She removed the shirt and found a sterling silver bracelet with her name engraved on it. She gasped at the fact he bought jewelry.
Chad sat there looking at her in fear since she hadn't said anything. He knew all too well that Paige was never speechless. Then she squealed and his fears abated.
"This is...I...You..." Paige was trying to form a thought but it wasn't working so she stuck to simple, "I love it and you."
Chad sighed in relief and smiled.
"Your turn, open the box." Paige demanded.
He found a rare Brazilian soccer jersey inside the box. "Paige, this is too much. How did you do this?"
"Marco is remarkable when it comes to sports gear." Paige said lightly.
Chad jumped up and tackled Paige laughingly on the couch. He kissed her soundly on her lips.
She returned the kiss with ardor but pushed him off to give him the card.
"This couldn't wait?" Chad questioned looking at the envelope that was thrust into his hand.
"No, now read it." Paige said staring at him.
He slid the card out and read it. Normal Valentine's Day card, mushy, pink with hearts. Then he read what she wrote and his jaw dropped. He raised his confused gaze to meet hers, "You're ready? Ready for what?"
"Come with me and I'll show you." Paige stood and held out her hand.
He took it and followed her upstairs to her bedroom. Everything seemed to fall into place for him right then.
They progressed slowly into the love making. He was sweet and gentle with her. Making sure everything was okay and she was comfortable.
Paige was relieved afterward. She knew in her heart that Chad was definitely the right choice for her first time. "I love you, Chad."
"I love you, Paige. I'm not sure when it happened but it did and I'm not sorry."
Paige chuckled lightly as she cuddled up into her new found lover. She was completely content.
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The next month and a half flew by and it was now time for the final game.
Marco was a little depressed that his parents had managed to miss every single game this year. Spring break was getting ready to start after the last game.
Dylan noticed Marco was going into these dark moods every so often and they were becoming more frequent over the last few weeks.
"Hey, love. Are you okay?" Dylan questioned during one of the dark times.
"Yes, no, I don't know. It's nice being able to spend all the time I want with you alone but I kind of want my parents back." Marco said reluctantly.
"I know you do but it's not possible right now." Dylan said trying to comfort him.
"Let's just get to practice. I'll be fine." Marco said dejectedly.
The day before the final game, Marco and Dylan were hanging out at Marco's house when the phone rang. It was Marco's parents.
"Hi, Ma. How's grandmother?"
"Oh, I see. Yeah, last game is tomorrow at eleven. I'll see what I can do."
Marco hung up the phone and looked over at Dylan.
Dylan was staring at him with odd fascination and wonder. "What's up?"
"I have a question for you that might seem odd." Marco said.
"What is it?" Dylan asked.
"Will you go home with me?" Marco asked.
Dylan looked around the house, "Aren't we home?"
"No, I mean to Italy. My grandmother died and I have to leave after the game to attend her funeral. I can't go alone." Marco said sadly.
"I would say yes but this is one of those things I need to discuss with my parents first. Seeing as it involves a passport." Dylan explained as he gathered the love of his life in his arms.
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I know this sucks but please read and review. The next chapter is going to be better, I promise.
Kate-sorry I didn't send this first but I wanted to post it while I had the time. I hope you like it, love. Runs and hides behind the file cabinet. Don't hurt me!