Chapter 3
Quinn fumbled with his key in the lock. "Dammit! It's stuck again," he muttered as he shoved the door open with his shoulder and stumbled on a shoe just inside the doorway.
Max surveyed the room as she walked carefully inside. Clothes were strewn about in disarray; a shoe here, shirt there. "This belong to you?" Max asked, holding up a pair of underwear, smiling flirtatiously.
Quinn snorted. "As if! God, Max! I'm all boxers, not briefs!" With a twinkle in his eye he added, "Wanna see?"
"Maybe later if you're good," she jibed, putting the garment back where she'd found it on top of the lamp shade.
"Um, sorry about the mess," he said with an apologetic shrug. "Biggs seems to think he can decorate the place with his clothes."
"My place is just as bad sometimes." Then, upon seeing the rather moldy half-eaten can of tuna sitting in the middle of the floor, she quickly amended her statement. Wrinkling her nose, she said, "Okay, so not this bad. Seriously Quinn, tell Biggs a floor is NOT a garbage can. That's just disgusting."
"Oh, that?" he sputtered. "That's Alec's fault. I'm serious, sometimes I wonder what the hell is wrong with me, living with them. I need to find myself a nice lady friend to save me from all this."
Max furrowed her eyebrows. Alec? "Pig," she muttered. "Well, they are our friends...but I don't think I could live with them after seeing all this! Must be a guy thing..."
"Nah," Quinn chuckled lightly, seeing her expression. "More of an 'I don't have to follow rules anymore' thing. They got like this after getting out of Manticore, Max." He added affectionately, "It's more of a rebellious stage, I think. They'll get over it."
"Well, he'd better ...I mean." Max trailed off, realizing her near slip. What the hell was that? "I mean, for your sake, I hope they get over it. This would drive me crazy."
Quinn turned away, a knowing smile on his face. Composing himself quickly, he looked back at Max. "So, how about those drinks? What's your poison?"
"Hmm, so much to choose from," Max said, eyeing the large selection Quinn revealed in the cabinet. "Hows 'bout that bottle of Jack?"
"You and Biggs have something in common it seems," he commented, pulling out a bottle each of Jack and a 30 year old, single malt Glenfiddich. "Personally, I go for the good stuff."
"I'm insulted," she replied, lightly smacking him on the arm. "Jack is the good stuff."
"If you say so, sweetheart," he laughed, stepping out of her reach. "Watch where you hit, or you'll be bathing in scotch." Looking her up and down appreciatively, he couldn't resist a jibe. "On second thought, that works for me."
Max smiled suggestively, moving a little closer to him. "Really now? Wouldn't want you to waste 'the good stuff', now would we?"
"There's a whole lotta 'good stuff' here, Maxie. Whatever are you implying?" he wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.
It's so tempting... She let her eyes roam over Quinn's athletic body. Nice, very nice. But Alec... Max sighed loudly in frustration as she leaned back against the counter. Taking the bottle of whiskey from Quinn, she poured herself a large shot and downed it quickly. Can't I even flirt without thinking about him?
Mission accomplished, Quinn thought, smiling widely as he saw Max's frustration. This has to end. They're torturing themselves - and for what?
"Max," he laid a hand on her shoulder, turning her slightly to face him. "Wanna watch a video or something?" Quinn kept his voice even. Their playful flirting had evoked unwelcome emotions on his part. I'm doing this for Alec. I've never had feelings for Max, not like this, goddammit!
"Yeah, sure. You just want me on the couch in the dark," she joked, flashing a smile at him that would make most men crumble. Maybe that's what I need...
Oh god, Max, stop teasing like that. "Hell, yeah! But you knew that already. C'mon," he said, playfully blowing air on her neck as he propelled her towards the couch. "Got any preferences?" he asked, indicating to a row of videos beneath the television.
Max closed her eyes, still reeling from effect of the warm breath on her neck. Get a hold of yourself! she thought, shaking her head almost imperceptibly. "Um...nothing sappy."
"Don't wanna lose that tough-girl front, huh?" he egged, grabbing her around the waist and pulling her into a quick hug. "Fine. How about...this one!" he pulled a video off the shelf and popped it into the VCR.
He plopped down on the couch, pulling Max with him until she was settled comfortably in the crook of his arm.
Max groaned as she saw the opening credits. "Alec made me watch this. Twice."
He pulled back suddenly and looked at her. Not associating Alec with this! He shook himself slightly, then smiled. "Okay, we can watch something else." What the hell is wrong with you! You're supposed to be making her want Alec, idiot!
Max, a little more quickly than she'd intended, stood up from her seat and went to bend down in front of the video collection. "Hmm...How 'bout...this one?" she asked, holding up 'Moulin Rouge'. "Oh, wait. Looks sappy," she said, grimacing after reading the the synopsis on the back cover.
"It's a musical, Max. Has it's moments," he smirked, watching her face. "Biggs has a thing for Ewen McGreggor." He stopped a moment when his eyes fell on another title. "Why don't we try...that one?" he suggested, pulling 'The Game' from the shelf.
Max moved to settle herself back onto the couch, leaning her head on Quinn's shoulder. "Sure, this one'll be fine." She nuzzled her body against Quinn's subconsciously, seeking the warmth.
Quinn inhaled sharply, the scent of her assailing his senses. Get a grip, soldier. She's just making herself comfortable. "Max? Can you get the light?" he asked, desperate for her to move so he could conceal his body's very noticeable reaction to her nearness.
Max shrugged and stood up once again. "Are you eventually gonna let me sit down and watch the damn movie?" she joked. She flipped the light switch and the room was completely dark except for the soft glow of the television screen. After making herself comfortable again, she noticed the tension in Quinn's body. What's he all uptight about? She grabbed the bottle from the table and took a swig.
"My apologies, Your Highness," he replied lightly. I could use some of that. Reaching behind him, he grabbed his bottle of scotch and mimicked Max's action from the moment before. Tossing it back, he chugged relentlessly, until a movement by his side made him pause.
Max looked up at Quinn in puzzlement. "Any particular reason you decided you needed to down half the bottle in one go?"
He grinned impishly. "You know alcohol doesn't affect us unless we consume insane quantities in the least amount of time." He cocked his head to one side, replacing the bottle on the table. He leaned toward Max, his lips close to her ear. "Max," he whispered. "There's something I've wanted to do to you since we got home tonight."
Max's eyes widened in surprise and a wave a heat rippled through her body in response to the husky voice in her ear. Once she'd thoroughly quelled her unwanted reaction, she managed to speak. "Uh-huh. And what would that be?"
He pulled back and stared deep into her eyes, a seductive grin gracing his face. "This..." he answered breathily, eyes sparkling. He traced his fingers down both of her cheeks to her neck and then let them trail down her arms. She shuddered gently under his touch. The reaction triggered one in himself and his breath hitched a bit. Reining in his feelings, he reached his destination and his hands found their marks. He began to tickle her sides wildly as she squirmed beneath him.
Max flailed beneath the onslaught, gasping for breath between her laughter. "Stop! Don't...make me..." She finally managed to push him away, successfully ceasing the torture. As he was propelled backwards, however, he latched onto Max's shirt, pulling her with him, the couch toppling over in the process. Max landed hard on top of him and decided it was time for revenge. She placed her hands on both sides of his stomach. "Ready to apologize?" Seeing the wide-eyed look she received from Quinn as she tightened her grip, she laughed. "Ticklish, Quinn?" Before he could answer her fingers had begun their attack on his sides.
Gasping and writhing under her torturous fingers, Quinn tried desperately to get the upper hand. After repeatedly failed attempts he grabbed her ass, pulling her flush against him. She stilled as did he, both staring at each other, panting heavily.
At that moment, the door swung open.
Both Max and Quinn jerked their heads in the direction of the sound, blinking to adjust their eyes as the lights were switched on. Max paled as she saw Alec and Lianna staring at them in astonishment.
Something flickered quickly over Alec's face Quinn couldn't be sure was it anger, jealousy?But it disappeared as quickly as it came, and Alec adopted the cold mask he'd perfected over the years. With a tight smile and equally controlled voice he ventured, "The two of you seem to be having fun." Without another word, he gripped Lianna's hand and pulled her toward his bedroom, shutting the door behind them.
Max stared at the closed door, silent for several moments. Why did Alec look so...angry? Hurt? Why do I care? "II gotta go." She shifted and hastily tried to extricate herself from Quinn's hold.
Quinn held tightly to Max's arm. "Maxie, wait." She looked at him with sad eyes. "Don't go. I thought we were having fun!"
"Yeah, we were. But...I...it's not the kind of fun we should be having, Quinn. And then Alec..." Max shifted uncomfortably, attempting to get up again. Quinn let her this time, following her.
"I don't get it," he started. "Why shouldn't we be having this kind of fun? You told me yourself, you're not involved with Logan anymore. You agreed to come home with me." He stared at her intently for a moment, as if processing everything. "What about Alec, Max? What does he have to do with any of this? This is between you and me - or isn't it?"
Max hung her head, not wanting Quinn to see the crimson flush that crept onto her cheeks.
"Max," Quinn spoke softly. "I know."
Her head jerked up, meeting his gaze. "What do you mean, 'you know'?"
Nodding toward Alec's door, he replied. "I think you know what I mean, Maxie." After turning off the television, he took her hand gently in his, walking backwards to his bedroom. "You obviously need to talk, and I'm going to listen." Noticing her blanche at his suggestion, he added quietly. "I won't take no for an answer, Max. This has gone on too long. Come on."
Max sighed lightly, closing her eyes. "You're right. I do need to talk." They retreated into the room and, before closing the door, Max glanced toward Alec's room. She tried to push away the thoughts forming in her mind of what was probably happening there at that moment.
Lianna gaped at the sight that literallylay in front of her. Max and Quinn on the floor, Max straddling him, his hands on her ass. Okay, so, yeah, the plan was to get 'em jealous, but damn Quinn! She glanced at Alec in surprise as he grasped her hand tightly, leading her quickly toward his bedroom. Uh-oh, she thought. She had a moment to see the look of panic and hurt on Max's face before being pulled into the bedroom.
Closing the door behind him, Alec hissed air. "Bitch," he muttered under his breath.
Lianna fought to keep a smile from creeping across her face, attempting to keep a neutral appearance. "What was that about?" she ventured, bracing herself for massive avoidance.
Alec whipped his head up at Lianna. "What are you talking about?" The question came out practically a growl.
Lianna raised her eyebrows, peering at Alec in a way that said he knew damn well what she was talking about. "Hey, I'm just askin'. You said 'bitch'. And I know you better not have been referring to me."
"Indecent, is what it is. And I was referring to Max," he shook his head. "Couldn't they have taken it somewhere private?"
"Why is she a bitch? 'Cause she's gettin' some? Besides, it's not like they expected us to come in now anyways. The party isn't over for another two hours."
Alec ran a hand through his hair. He knew he'd slipped up. Dammit! How do I get out of this one? he thought as he looked at Lianna. His eyes betrayed him and he knew she could read him like an open book. Lianna had a way of seeing people.
"I - uh - she," he fumbled for words, but his head was in turmoil. Why do I care?
Lianna shook her head, trying to hide the smile that formed on her lips. He's so oblivious. They both are. "Alec, sit down," she said, motioning to the bed. Alec's eyes narrowed as he wondered what Lianna was thinking. "I'm not gonna bite. I just want to ask you a simple question, and I'm expecting the answer to be a long and complicated one. And I wanna be comfortable." She plopped down on the bed after tossing aside several articles of clothing, and patted the area next to her.
Alec flashed her a look of confusion. "Simple question, complicated answer? Do I wanna hear this?"
Here we go. "Whether you wanna hear it or not, you're gonna," she replied, glaring at him sternly. "Why do you care what or whoMax does?"
"Who said I care!" he retorted indignantly. "I just don't think she needs to be making out in public. It's degrading."
Lianna looked at him expectantly. "Right. Because in the apartment constitutes being 'in public'," she scoffed.
"Lianna, you know exactly what I mean. They were in the living room. The living room of an apartment shared by three guys. Three! None of us do the dirty outside our roo-" he stopped suddenly, flushing, as he recalled a night of passion with a fiery redhead on the kitchen floor.
"I'm gonna take that abrupt stop as grounds to forget everything you just said." Lianna gave him a small smile and placed a hand on his. "Now are you going to tell me the real reason why this pisses you off so much?" Alec was silent for several minutes, refusing to look at her. "Well?" she prodded.
Finally he turned to face her. "Max is, well," he began, shifting uncomfortably. "Dammit, Li! I just don't get her."
Welcome to the club, honey, she thought somewhat bitterly as she was reminded of how very little she understood about the opposite sex, namely Biggs. She sighed heavily and tightened her grasp on Alec's hand reassuringly. "But you want to, don't you? Get her?"
Hell yeah, I wanna 'get' her. The acknowledgement was like a weight lifted from his shoulders. He did want Max - as more than a friend.
"It's always been 'Alec, you ass' or 'you're such a screw-up' or 'can't you ever do anything right' with Max," he sighed deeply and sat down heavily on the bed. "I've tried so hard, Li. To get her to see me. I -" he shook his head and laughed bitterly. "Why am I telling you this?"
"Because I'm listening. And I'm just so damned cute that it's impossible not to trust me," she stated in an attempt to lighten the moment.
He stared at her for a moment. Lianna was a good friend and Alec knew that he could open up to her better than anyone else. Biggs was his best bud, but his understanding of women and their inner workings was as much a mystery to Biggs as it was to Alec.
"I...like her," he admitted softly.
"You think?" Lianna inwardly cringed at her blatant sarcasm. I can't help it that those two have been so obvious that everyone couldn't help but notice.
"I - it's just," he berated himself mentally for acting like a teenager with a crush. "I wish she'd see me as something other than her trouble-making sidekick." Rising from the bed he threw his hands up in defeat. "I want her, Li. I admit it. I want Max."
"Have you ever really stopped to think that she might want you, too?" Lianna was a bit in awe that he'd been this quick to come out with the truth. She'd expected at least another 10 minutes of alternating denial and awkward silence. I wonder if Quinn's having as much luck. Her brows came together as she thought. Actually, I wonder if he's tryin' after that little scene. She mentally shook off the idea, knowing that Quinn wouldn't do anything to intentionally hurt his friends.
"Right. Max wanting me. Fat chance," came the bitter reply. "The only thing she ever wanted from me was my absence." He shivered, remembering he'd thought the same of her once. But he hadn't meant it, that was the difference. Max had told him many times she regretted saving his ass. Yet she continues to do so, Alec. Maybe Lianna's right?
Pushing the unlikely thoughts away, he began pacing.
Lianna watched intently as the changing emotions flickered over Alec's face. "Why is it so hard to believe that she'd want you? Mr. Self-Confidence having ego issues?"
The truth of her comment hurt. Alec raised his eyes to Lianna's and replied quietly. "For the first time - yeah." He bit his lip, shook his head and smiled wryly. "It would be so much easier to get it out in the open - tell her how I feel. But come on, we both know she'd duck and run." His rueful chuckle cemented her suspicions as to how deeply Alec felt for Max. "But only after dismembering me."
"Alec, I think you'd be -" she paused, trying to think of how to word her statement, "...pleasantly surprised if you came out with your feelings to Max." Lianna could see where he was coming from; Max hadn't exactly treated him the best that she could have, but it was her way. "Max just has a hard time with the emotion shit, Alec. Hell, we all do, and it's no wonder. Hiding our feelings is what we were taught, ever since we were kids. Just because she doesn't show it, doesn't mean she doesn't feel it." She silently reflected that her words were applicable to her own love life.
Enough emotional sap crap. "Look, Li. I know you mean well, but after tonight, I seriously doubt I have a chance. Quinn's quite a guy," he affected his trademark smirk. "He learned from the best."
Lianna growled in frustration. I was so close, dammit. "Why are you men so frustrating? If you ever want a chance with Max, you have to tell her something, whether it's the whole deal or not."
"So, what, should I go interrupt their little love fest? Not happening." Alec glanced at the clock on his bedside table. "I think I'm gonna get some shut-eye. You're welcome to stay; it is kinda late," he offered with a soft smile.
Lianna thought deeply about the offer, not sure if it was entirely a good idea, and also not wanting to give up so easily. What the hell, she thought. I'm tired. This can wait. "Sure, wanna loan me a pillow?" she asked as she moved to the floor and started to stretch out.
"Like hell, Lianna! You take the bed," he said, taking his pillow in one hand and guiding her to the bed with the other. "It's not like I haven't done this before."
His last comment earned him a disbelieving snort and accompanying look from Lianna. "Sure ya have, Casanova."
"I didn't mean...you - minx!" He laughed, hitting her square on the head with his pillow, the force causing the material to rip and feathers to shower Lianna. "That's more like it," he crowed.
Lianna leapt up, grabbing a pillow of her own. "You are so gonna pay for that!" Holding her 'weapon' with both hands, she brought it hard against his back. She laughed as the pillow exploded, more feathers flying in all directions. Alec lunged at her, bringing them both down onto the bed, causing the mattress to creak loudly. Lianna squealed as Alec began tickling her nose with a feather, pinning her wrists in one hand so she couldn't retaliate.
He let go of the feather and reached for the pillow again, shoving his hand into the recesses and yanking out a handful this time. Still holding her beneath his weight, other hand gripping tightly to her arm, Alec opened his fist and the feathers floated onto Lianna's face and chest. Blowing them around he watched her squirm and fight to break free. "Am I?" he taunted. "I'm so not threatened, Li."
Lianna quickly maneuvered her feet until they were pressed against his stomach, grinning wickedly as realization dawned on Alec. "Really? How 'bout now?" she asked as she thrust her legs up, propelling him off her and consequently the bed, to land on the floor with a resounding thud. This must sound so bad to Max and Quinn.
"LIANNA!" He yelped, jumping to his feet and running at her. "Oh, god, you're in for it now!" he growled playfully. Tackling her on the bed, he held her under his weight, legs tightly gripping the outside of her thighs. He took the pillow in hand and smothered her face for a moment. "Let's see if you can take all of this!"
"ALEC! Stop, that hurts!" Lianna screamed as Alec began tickling her relentlessly.
"God, I'm sorry! Is this better?" he said, sweetly, flipping her over onto his chest and tickling her sides.
From this position she was able to still his hands, bringing them up above his head. She put a knee dangerously close to a very sensitive part of his anatomy. "Hey! Be careful with that!" he exclaimed.
Lianna smiled smugly, sliding her knee up a little further. "No, you are gonna tell me what I wanna hear. Tell me that you're gonna talk to Max about how you feel, or I'll magically turn to you into a soprano."
I thought I sidestepped the issue quite well. Shit. He lowered his head parallel to hers and with a resigned sigh he nodded. "Fine. I'll tell her." Now if she doesn't realize I haven't said when, all's good.
"I know what you're thinkin' so don't. Tomorrow morning, or no deal," Lianna stated sweetly, not moving an inch from her position.
"You really are a bitch, y'know?" he chuckled, punctuating his remark with a jab to her side, eliciting a giggle.
"Okay. It's a deal. I'll tell her tomorrow. Can we go to sleep now? Unless you have something else in mind..." he drawled, winking suggestively and clenching his legs tighter against her thighs.
She shook her head slowly. "You really are impossible, you know that?" She smacked him lightly on the chest and rolled over, making herself comfortable on the bed.
"Li, I'm kinda comfy here. Willing to share?" he groaned, closing his eyes and lying back on the now flat pillow.
"As long as you promise to behave," she chided. "Unless you snore, in which case your ass is moving to the couch."
"No one's ever complained about me snoring before," he said, laughing. "But then again, we didn't sleep much."
Rolling her eyes, Lianna thwacked him lazily on the shoulder. "Tsk, tsk. Bragging is not an attractive character trait. Shut up and go to sleep already."
He rolled over and closed his eyes. He was tired, bone tired, and sleep had almost overtaken him when a thought came to mind. Slightly unsettled, he shifted and faced Lianna with heavy lidded eyes.
"Do you think they actually -" he stopped and smiled when he noticed the even rise and fall of her chest. She must be asleep. "Never mind," he whispered softly. "G'nite."
Lianna regulated her breathing, giving the semblance of sleep. She didn't know how to answer the question; if she told him no, he probably wouldn't believe her, and there was no way in hell she was going to tell him yes! She could only hope that sleep drove away his unpleasant thoughts before they quelled his courage to have his talk with Max tomorrow. Quinn, you better not have screwed this up - for all our sakes!
SEQ CHAPTER h r 1 Cindy sauntered into Crash, Biggs following behind her, his head hung slightly. The bar wasn't crowded, since most of the usual patrons were at the Jam Pony Party. The lack of activity suited Biggs just fine; he wasn't feeling very social.
He rested his elbow on the bar, facing her. "So, what'll you have, Cindy? First round's on me, remember?" Biggs reached into his pocket and took out a handful of crumpled bills.
"Just order Original Cindy a pint of whatever they callin' beer," she said, gesturing at the beer taps.
Judging from the way she looked at the taps, Biggs figured she'd want more than a pint. "Hey, Mike!" he called to the bartender. "Gimme a pitcher of Alaskan, one Iron City and a couple bottles of Jack." Turning back to Cindy he suggested, "Why don't you grab a table? I'll bring the drinks."
Cindy pursed her lips and rolled her eyes. "Sugah, that's more than a round, and you ain't payin' for all that." Biggs opened his mouth to protest, but Cindy threw up a hand and said, "I'll go grab us a table, and then you gon' have a chat with Original Cindy. Understood?"
Biggs nodded, eying Cindy with newfound respect. He'd never really taken the time to get to know her, but he could understand why everyone loved her; she was up-front and not afraid to speak her mind.
"Aiight." She turned, her eyes following a tall leggy brunette hungrily. "But, boo, you better hurry before I make my move on that fine ass lickety-chick over there," she said, laughing. No way I'd leave him alone like this. But damn, she's fine!
He grinned at her comment. "Just go!" he laughed heartily. Biggs watched as Cindy wove her way between two drunken guys. One of them guffawed loudly and swatted her ass. Biggs had seen Cindy in action before and waited with baited breath to see how she would react to the unsolicited groping.
"Fool!" she exclaimed, grabbing the teetering man's arm, twisting it behind his back roughly. Biggs looked on, in awe of the way she handled the drunken idiot. "Original Cindy don't play that!" With a hard shove from behind, she pushed him forward, sending him sprawling. Turning to the other man, she said, "Take your boy home 'fore he gets his ego bruised some more, got it?" She straightened her top, shaking her head as the wiser of the men guided her offender away.
Mike handed Biggs a tray of drinks and some glasses. He paid, thanked him and walked over to the table Cindy had just sat down at. Placing the tray on the surface he shot Cindy an appreciative grin. "Nicely handled. You sure you aren't a transgenic in hiding? That's some grip you got!"
"Nah, that's just a little somethin' Original Cindy picked up in basic trainin' back in the day," she replied, shrugging off the compliment. "'Sides, drunk bastard actin' a fool ain't no challenge."
Biggs was intrigued. He raised an eyebrow at her. "Basic training?"
"Yup. This girl served her country. Right after I got out's when I met up with our girl Max." She leaned in over the table conspiratorially. "Ya see, Original Cindy got in a bit of a bar fight with a room fulla drunk ass bikers lookin' to score. Max jumped in and helped a sistah out."
"Damn. Never pegged you for a military type," Respect was evident in his voice as he poured Cindy a drink. "I'm kinda surprised that Max risked exposure like that." His eyes sparkled mischievously. "Unless she was tryin' to impress...is Max bisexual?" He sat back and took a swig from his bottle of Jack, awaiting her reply with open curiosity.
"Nah. Nearly broke my heart when I found that out, too," she joked, grinning widely. Her face suddenly turned serious. "So, sugah, you gon' talk 'bout what's botherin' you?" Cindy said a quick prayer that Biggs wasn't as stubborn as the rest of the transgenics she'd met when it came to talking about their 'issues'. They sure as hell got plenty of 'em to talk 'bout.
Biggs sighed. Not getting outta this one, I guess. "Well, it's kinda like this," he began, scratching his forehead absentmindedly. "Lianna, Quinn and I decided to...play Alec and Max against each other." He looked at Cindy expectantly, wondering what her reaction would be.
Cindy clapped her hand down on the table, laughing. "'Bout damn time somebody did somethin' 'bout those two! Bein' around the two of them with all that UST..." she trailed off, raising her eyebrows to emphasize her unspoken words. "Y'know?"
"Tell me about it!" Biggs laughed heartily. "The air practically crackles with electricity when they're next to each other! So we decided it was time to take action." He took another swig, downing the majority of the contents of his bottle in one swallow. The warmth overtook him, feeding his blood and relaxing his muscles. The tension slowly releasing its hold, he smiled broadly at Cindy. "Quinn took Max for a spin. It looked pretty intense."
"I saw them doing the vertical mambo...looked like it was gon' end horizontal. Didn't see much of our boy though, what with me spending most of my time tryin' to keep away from Normal and his white, Republican ass. But I'm guessin' Pretty Boy wasn't too happy with that little arrangement, right?"
Biggs grimaced at the mention of Alec. Tightly gripping the bottle in his hand, he chugged the remaining liquid down, enjoying the sensation as it burned his throat. Reaching a hand inside his collar, he pulled at the material, trying to fan himself. After his little display, I wonder if Alec really is interested in Max. He was hitting on Lianna all night.
"I'm not all that sure he cared," he growled in reply, eyes narrowing as the image of Alec kissing Lianna flashed in his mind. Red-hot anger surged through him.
"Whoa! Chill, boo, or you gon' end up cutting up your hand when that glass breaks!" She reached out and put her hands over his, smiling knowingly. She may not have known Biggs all that well, but she wasn't blind. "Lianna was the one who was s'posed to be makin' my boo jealous, huh?" she said softly.
"Yeah," he muttered. "Lianna," he breathed her name with a mixture of awe and resentment.
Uh-oh, that spells trouble. "So, wanna tell Original Cindy what happened with your girl and Hot Boy?"
Biggs grabbed for the second bottle, almost knocking it over in his haste. Uncorking it, he took a grand swig, eyes tightly shut as he downed the amber liquid that had such a profoundly soothing effect. He took a deep breath before opening his eyes, locking gazes with Cindy. He could see compassion there. Not pity; compassion. I think I love you, Cindy, he thought, realizing he was actually slightly tipsy. That's a first.
Gritting his teeth, he finally ventured a reply. "I know it was an act on her part, but..." Words failed him as he clenched his hand around the bottle, a loud 'crack' sounding as a hairline split the glass.
Cindy lightly pulled on Biggs' hands, unclenching them from around the cracked bottle. Alec, what're you up to? "Go on, sugah. What happened next?"
"He kissed her," he whispered. There was a hard edge to his reply and a cold gleam in his eyes. "He fucking kissed her."
Cindy's eyes opened wide in genuine shock. "He did what!" Shit, that really helped. She quickly tried to reign in her surprise. "Isn't it possible that he was just tryin' to give Max a taste of what she was dishin' out?"
Biggs didn't even consider her suggestion. Anger washed over him again as he replayed the scene in his head for the umpteenth time. "Not fucking likely," he bit out. "She left with Quinn before you know."
Cindy was stumped. Why the hell would he do somethin' so stupid? Unless... "Boo, how long did it take you to figure out somethin' was goin' on with Max and Alec?"
"What does that have to do with anything? It's been obvious for ages. Look, Cindy," he tried to affect a front of indifference. "I don't know why I'm obsessing. Plenty of fish in the sea, right?" he flashed a cocky smile. Glancing around the room, he zeroed in on a stunning blonde near the pool table. "I think I'm gonna go turn on the famous Biggs charm, and take that honey home." He moved to stand up but stumbled, collapsing back in his chair.
"You ain't goin' nowhere like this!" Cindy leaned over the table, intent on making the inebriated transgenic hear what she had to say. "It was obvious to everyone who was near those two for five minutes that they crazy for each othah. Honey, I ain't blessed with enhanced eyesight, but even I figured out you and Lianna are the same damn way." Biggs stared at her impatiently, his eyes slightly unfocused. "You think Alec didn't notice you two?" Cindy squeezed his hand lightly. "Is Alec the type of guy who'd go after Lianna if he knew you liked her?"
Defeated, he let out a deep sigh. "No." Alec wouldn't do that. A light bulb flashed in his head. "The bastard," he murmured, the corners of his mouth turning up slightly. "That sneaky son-of-a-bitch!"
Cindy snorted. "Like you guys just straight-up told Alec and Max to get a room, right?"
After a moment he looked up at Cindy and grinned. "I get it. But that doesn't mean I'm not gonna deck him, though." After a moment, his smile faded. "Do you really think Lianna...? I mean, well...you know," he fumbled in embarrassment. He wasn't used to feeling like this, not being in control.
"Yeah, boo," Cindy caught his gaze, her sincerity evident. "Girl's got it bad as you do." She flashed him a bright smile. "You see, this is why Original Cindy don't mess with the hetero relationships. Too much damn trouble," she jibed.
"Right. And I'm sure you find women easy to understand," he joked. Turning serious, he continued. "I've got a plan. Fuck this little game. Time I made m'move, don'tcha think?" He was determined, and more than a little drunk. It all made perfect sense to him. "I'm gon' go get m'girl!" he slurred slightly, rising from his seat and taking off at an uneven pace. Cindy sat open mouthed, watching his retreating form.
"Men," she muttered under her breath. Cindy jumped up from her chair and it wasn't that difficult to catch up to the stumbling Biggs. She was at his side just in time to steady him as he tripped over his own feet. He smiled lopsidedly up at her.
"Fool, gimme your keys. Friends don't let drunk transgenics in love drive."
He caught the 'gimme your keys' but failed to hear anything else. The night sounds were buzzing in his ears and things were spinning. Dipping a hand into his back pocket, he pulled out a set of keys and dangled them in front of her face.
"Okay."
The two climbed on his motorcycle and Cindy kick started, and revved the engine. "You've done this b'fore," he murmured, head lolling as he gripped her around the waist.
"You're a quick one, ain't ya?" she replied sarcastically. "You wanna keep those hands, you better make sure they stay where they are," she added as an afterthought as she pulled out into the street. This dealio oughtta be entertaining as hell to see sorted out. The thought made her grin as she sped off into the night, Biggs barely managing to hold onto her as the wind whipped at him.
Cindy handed Biggs his keys as they made their way into the building. He was coming out of his stupor, the cold night air having marginally reduced the drunken state he was in. Reaching his door, Biggs didn't bother with the lock. It seemed the door had been damaged enough by the looks of the splintered wood and broken hinges.
"Hope we weren't ripped off again," he muttered under his breath as he stepped into the living area, Cindy following close behind. Eyeing the toppled couch and general disarray he commented to his companion, "Looks like they had one helluva party."
Straightening his shoulders he smiled grimly. "A party I'm gonna crash...right about - now," he grumbled, inching Alec's door open soundlessly. He stumbled slightly, taking in the scene before him. Alec had an arm draped over Lianna's waist, the two of them slumbering softly. So much for the benefit of the doubt!
Biggs scrambled to Alec's side, pulled his arm back and slammed his fist into his friend's face. "You mother-fucking-son-of-a-BITCH!" he roared. "What the hell do you think you're doing!" He yanked a now wide-awake Alec from the bed and threw him at the nearest wall.
Lianna sat up suddenly, watching in growing horror as Biggs attacked Alec.
Looking at her, a predatory gleam in his eyes, his movements wild, Biggs leapt at Lianna, pinning her to the bed. "Mine," he growled.
Cindy rushed toward the door in time to see Alec lifting himself up off the floor. He brought a hand up to his lips, wiping about the blood that had begun to seep from the cut at the corner of his mouth.
She took in the scene, astonished. "What the hell do you think you're doin'!" she yelled at Biggs. "They got their clothes on, fool!" Turning to Alec, she surveyed the damage done. "You aiight, boo?" Alec nodded wordlessly, still in shock at how quickly everything had happened.
"Biggs, what is your fucking problem?" Lianna, fully awake, pushed against the solid wall of Biggs' chest, attempting to shove him off of her. Perfect. He finally acknowledges that I exist and then goes friggin insane.
Biggs let out a deep breath and growled. "You. Him. The two of you," he shook his head, trying to clear the haze that was settling again. Then Cindy's words registered. He pulled back abruptly and looked Lianna up and down. She's dressed, he acknowledged slowly. He then glanced at Alec, noting his friend was also fully clothed. "Ah, shit," he cursed and sat up on the edge of the bed. A deep crimson blush rose from his chest to his face and Biggs cradled his head in his hands, thoroughly embarrassed by his actions.
"I'm sorry," he whispered finally.
"Cindy, how much did he drink?" Lianna asked quietly, placing a hand on Biggs' back, tracing circles on his jacket with her fingers.
"Too damn much, obviously," Cindy muttered in response.
Alec, in spite of his sore jaw, couldn't help but grin. "Not exactly as I'd planned..."
"C'mon Pretty Boy, let's go get you cleaned up." Cindy reached out and put her hand on Alec's back, pushing him towards the door.
Biggs turned to Alec before he left the room, eyes full of regret. "I'm sorry, bro. I don't know what I was thinking. Screw that. I knew exactly what I was thinking - and it was obviously way off."
Alec made his way over to his friend and placed a hand on his shoulder. "I think it just may have been worth it," he smirked, nodding to Lianna. With that, he followed Cindy to the bathroom to fix himself up.
Biggs was reluctant to face Lianna. "I made an ass out of myself, didn't I?"
"Yeah," she admitted. A smile crept onto her lips and she leaned forward slightly. "But then again, that's one of the many things I love about you." Shit, she thought. Let him still be drunk enough to not have noticed that.
Biggs raised his eyes and locked gazes with Lianna. "Love?" he whispered, somewhat in disbelief.
So much for that. "Um...I - well, what I meant to say was..." Lianna mentally berated herself for her sudden inability to form words. Fuck it. Words are overrated. Quickly before the courage could escape her, she leaned in and placed a soft kiss on Biggs' lips.
It was like an electric shock, the current rushing through his veins and firing his blood. Stunned, he slowly deepened the kiss, lightly running his tongue over her bottom lip, one hand circling her waist as the other wove itself through her soft hair.
Lianna shuddered at the passion of the kiss and the feelings his strong hands moving over her body provoked in her. She groaned softly as Biggs' hand traveled down to rest on her ass. I need to know, she thought as she reluctantly broke the kiss.
"Biggs?" she whispered breathily.
He pulled back cautiously, the hesitation in her voice stilling his movements. "What's wrong?"
Lianna smiled softly and met Biggs' eyes with her own. "Nothing's wrong. I - I just wanted to ask if..." Dammit, here I go again. "When I said 'love' earlier..." She let the sentence hang there, hoping he wouldn't ask her to elaborate.
He placed a finger gently to her lips. "Shhh. The answer is 'yes'," he returned her smile shyly. "I only wish I'd done this earlier," he added, leaning in to capture her velvety lips in another passionate kiss.
"I love you," he whispered into her mouth.
"You too." Lianna returned, continuing the kiss, contented and with increased fervor. "I love you too, Biggs."
Intense happiness coursed through him. Everything about her inflamed his senses. He wanted; wanted so badly he could taste it. "Can I touch you?" His words were a caress, each utterance releasing a puff of warm air along her jaw and throat.
He was oblivious to his surroundings. The fact that they were currently in Alec's room, on Alec's bed, not even a thought in his mind as he focused on the beautiful woman in his arms.
"If you have to ask, I'm not doin' it right," she teased. She ducked down to capture his earlobe in her teeth, running her tongue along the soft flesh. Leaning back on the bed, she pulled him down with her. Nothing existed anymore except for his scent, the feel of his hands, his lips. Everything else faded into oblivion as she let herself become lost in him.
Alec walked towards his bedroom, not quite sure what he expected to see. He stopped abruptly in the doorway. His jaw scraped the floor at the sight he was confronted with. Cindy slammed into his back, gasping as she took in the scene.
Biggs and Lianna had somehow divested themselves of their shirts and the two were too wrapped up in each other to notice the intrusion. Their passion was almost palpable. Way to go, Biggs! Alec thought to himself, a satisfied smile on his lips as he quietly closed the door. Turning to Cindy, he saw her amused grin.
"Can I drive ya home?" he offered, eyes twinkling.
She nodded, still grinning widely, and together they left the apartment.
TBC
Chapter 4