Love in the Ice

So i really surprised myself today! I sat down and all i could do was write, write, write. This chapter, i believe, is the longest i've ever written! i hope you guys enjoy! i had a really good time writing it!

School had finally finished for the Holiday break. Ryley thanked God for the two and a half weeks away he got from Mr. Hernandez! The old geezer really needed some sort of vacation. Maybe by the time they got back he wouldn’t be damning all his students to hell! Ryley didn't understand the guy. Yeah, maybe teaching, and grading so many papers, was a hassle, no one denied that, but, why get into that career if a person didn't enjoy it? Maybe at some point in his life, he had enjoyed teaching, now, Ryley's best guess was, Hernandez needed to retire. Hopefully the Christmas holidays would make him some good and lighten his mood for the next year.

Ryley had just gotten home from spending the day at the mall with Jamie and Scott.

The Christmas season really packed the place up. All the stores were having sales and offering 'the best Christmas gift', ranging from the latest toys for kids to lazy boys for the older adults. Jamie and Ryley were happily looking for gifts for their parents.

They’d found a beautiful white trench coat for their mother, at Michael Kors and they’d also manage to purchase a Calista Satchel bag. Their father on the other hand was much harder to shop for. Gabrielle Snyder was a woman of fashionable taste. She loved clothes, therefore it wasn't that hard to find a present she'd like. Reed Snyder on the other hand, was a simple man, he was accustomed to the finer things in life, due to his career, but rarely did he indulge in them.

Reed was a particular type of man. Things that someone would think would make the man happy would be just okay for him. Things that someone would think were just okay for him would make him ecstatic. Talk about a challenge. The only one who had similar tastes and likes to Reed was Scott, and even he was dumbstruck.

The trio went into the Apple Store and took a look at their newest gadget. The Ipad. Compact. Light weight. High quality Resolution. Translation,the perfect gift for Reed Snyder.

After buying Emma's Christmas gift, a set of moisturizing creams and lotions from Clinique, they decided to walk around for a while longer, hey, window shopping was just as fun as regular shopping. Towards the exit both Jamie and Ryley shrieked in excitement when they saw the puppy store. The brothers ran in towards the back of the store where all the puppies were displayed at, a calmer more composed Scott followed, a grin on his face.

All the puppies were super cute and playful. But both Ryley and Jamie had taken to a russet, auburn colored retriever pup. Jamie immediately fell in love with the loveable creature. Neither Ryley, nor Jamie could spend a minute with another puppy, before returning to it. But as the day was ending, both Ryley and Jamie had to sadly say goodbye to the puppy. There were still five days left until Christmas, the brothers had to come back and get their own boyfriends gifts, they'd come back and visit the puppy then.

Now Ryley found himself at the door of his father’s study. He was nervous, hell his heart was thundering inside his chest, and his palms were staring to perspire with sweat.

Softly, he knocked.

" Come in," came from inside the room.

Reed was intensely concentrated on what he was working on, most likely, some wrap up work for his movie. He finally looked up and smiled at his son.

"Hey Kiddo, how can I be of service" the playful tone in his father’s voice relaxed Ryley a bit.

"Hey dad, I was wondering if I could talk to you about something" Ryley closed the door and made his way closer to his father’s desk.

"Sure, have a seat," Ryley pulled the arm chair, at the opposite side of his father's seat, and sat down, "So what is this something you need to talk to me about".

"Well, I kind of invited someone to Christmas Eve Dinner, and I wanted to ask if you were okay with it."

"Of course Ryley, we'd be more than happy to have guests over for dinner, why would there be a problem". Reed completely stopped his work and put his full attention on his son.

Ryley started fidgeting with the hem of his shirt, "Ummm, well you've never met this guest before, and.... he's not exactly.... just a regular guest."Ryley's shirt wrinkling, as his hands grew anxious.

Reed paused at his son's words. " What do you mean not a regular guest".

"Dad... he's my boyfriend."

A long silence filled the air. "Oh... I.. I wasn't aware you had a....boyfriend,” Reed’s face looked hard, “Ryley I don't know. Don't you think you're too young" Reed was having a hard time accepting his youngest boy had a boyfriend.

"Dad I'm going to be seventeen soon."

"Exactly!" Reed cleared his throat as he leaned back into his chair, running a hand through his hair, "I... Since when, why don't your mother and I know about this."

" I haven't told anyone... Well I told Jamie about two weeks ago, I was planning to tell you and mom about it but.. I don't know, I didn't know how you would react to it, I was scared," Ryley looked down at his fidgeting hands.

"Scared, Ryley I wasn't going to hit you, you know I'd never lay my hands on you, but, you have to admit this is sudden. Jamie and Scott just became an item and now you too. You're my youngest, you’re still a baby."

The green eyed boy blushed, "Dad!"

"Maybe not physically, but to me you’re still the baby," the older man pushed his elbows onto his desk, "Is it serious. It's not just.....fooling around".

The younger boys reddened face intensified, "Dad no!.. I...we've been together for a month. I'm pretty sure it's serious.... He treats me good, I'm happy with him".

Reed took a small paused and said with a concerned face, "He doesn't just want... well you know, what you boys say,...hit it," the older man's face getting an unusual shade of red.

Ryley had never been so embarrassed in his life, " Dad, no!".

"I was a young lad myself, once.. our bodies have certain needs and you-".

"Not the birds and bees talk," Ryley exclaimed as he hid his face between his hands.

Reed cleared his throat again, he really looked uncomfortable, "Boys like that, they'll do things to pressure you. If you're not ready..you need to make sure he knows".

Ryley was beyond mortified, his face, just like his fathers had gone crimson.

"Protecti-"

" Dad! Oh my god, stop! I know about the birds and bees, I know!" Ryley couldn't take anymore, it was too awkward.

" Would you feel more comfortable with your mom, I know women are easier to talk to about these things, but we're both men here-"

"Dad I don't want to talk to either of you about this!"

"I know it's uncomfortable, but it's important to kn-".

"Dad I know, it was covered in health! Just stop already," Ryley begged as he covered his ears, "I can't hear this from you."

A long awkward silence filled the room. Another clearing of the throat was heard. "Okay...well I'm glad we covered that....so.... go ahead and bring this boy. I think we'd all like to...meet him."

" Ryley couldn't help but laugh, he smiled, "Thanks....I'm going to get out of here before we get into another awkward conversation. Bye." Ryley ran out of the room almost as if his life depended on it.

---

Aiden and his mother were parked outside the penthouse apartment. To say the taller boy was nervous was an understatement. His mother had been so happy to hear Aiden had a boyfriend. Yes, at first she had been upset she hadn't known sooner, but as soon as she heard it was a
Snyder she forgave him in an instant. Aiden was dating, James Snyder's younger brother! Reed and Gabrielle Snyder's youngest son. It was too much! And to top it off, they were invited to Christmas Eve dinner no less!

His mother's excitement had been humorous to him, but again, like almost everything that he did concerning Ryley, the all too familiar pain in his chest came back to haunt him. Ryley. The small, beautiful, sweet boy that had come to make him smile, make him laugh, make his heart beat faster. Could he really hurt him? Could he?

"Are you ready," asked the blue eyed teen.

" I should ask you the same thing, " laughed his mom, " I’m as ready as I’ll ever be,” she fidgeted with her clothes, “You sure I dressed fine".

His mother had taken more care of her appearance tonight. She wore a beautiful red dress that hugged her tall, slim frame. She had on some medium sized black heel pumps, she was already tall without heels. To over herself she wore a black trench coat with a small mistletoe pin fastened in. He hair was still it's curly, shoulder length size. She didn't put too much make up, but enough to notice it was more than a casual look.

"You look amazing mom."

" Aw, thanks honey, You look quite handsome as well," Marianne smiled as she grabbed a small chocolate gift basket she picked up at See's Chocolates.

Aiden smiled as he got out the car and went around to open his mother's door. He'd also opted to dress more formal than casual. He felt he needed to make a good impression on the Snyders. His grey slacks, night blue button up shirt, black dress shoes, and belt gave a
casual look, but presented formal wear. He left his wavely curls down, but added some gel to make them look presentable as well.

At the lobby, they were escorted by a guard to the elevator that lead to the main penthouse. When the Snyder's were informed their guests had arrived, they were lead up to the seventy fifth floor. On the way up, Aiden couldn't help but feel anxious. This was getting serious.
Really serious. He was meeting Ryley's family, he was spending an important holiday evening with them, with his mother no less.

The pair was led out of the elevator into an even spaced hallway, a huge door the only visible place to go. The guard told them to knock, enjoy they're evening, then retreated into the elevator and wished them Happy Holidays before the elevator doors closed.

Aiden looked to his mother, who gave him a smile of encouragement, and knocked.

As the door opened, Aiden's heart stopped. Ryley was standing there, a pair of dark jeans covered his legs, and a burgundy sweeter fitted his petite figure. His black hair was styled as he normally wore it, straight, passing his shoulders a bit, and a rose colored blush graced his cheeks. He was breathtaking.

Ryley smiled and welcomed them in, and the pair exchanged a small kiss.

Aiden waited until the younger boy closed the door before he introduced his mother. "Ryley, this is my mother Marianne Emerson, mom this is Ryley, Ryley Snyder.

"It’s a pleasure to meet you Miss Emerson". Ryley smiled and extended his hand.

Marianne took the younger boys hand and smiled, "It’s a pleasure to meet you too Ryley, but please call me Marianne, I feel so old hearing Miss Emerson, I like to think I'm still young".

"Ryley laughed, "Dont think, you dint look a day over twenty one."

"Aw, you're such a sweet heart. Aiden I think you out did yourself." Ryley's blushed even darker, which caused Aiden to laugh.

"Ryley took Marianne's coat and hung it on the small closet next to the entrance, before he announced, "My family is in the lounge, you can follow me". Ryley smiled as he lead them into a room to the right of the hallway they were in. The room was immense. The couches were an
olive green, and all the furniture was a light wood color. The walls were a soft terracotta, and the drapes were a darker green. In the corner of the room there was a medium size pine tree, decorated with gold ornaments and red bows, with just a couple of gifts surrounding the tree.
The room had a soft glow due to the lit fireplace, and the ceiling lights were turned down low. Reed and Gabrielle Snyder faced the entrance of the room so therefore were able to see the trio enter, they graciously stood to welcome their guests. Followed by Jamie and Scott who were seated very closely on the loveseat across the club chair Reed was seated on, and diagonal to the sofa Gabrielle and Emma occupied. Emma followed them.

Gabrielle Snyder moved forward first, a bright smile on her face, "Welcome". She was dressed in a gold silky dress that followed her petite figure, she had on taller gold heels in comparison to Marianne, but even with those she reached a height of about 5'3. Her blond hair framed her very pretty face nicely, it really brought out her green eyes.

Reed Snyder followed his wife to the entrance of the room. He was a towering man, all five ten of his height, he wasn't bulky, in fact he had a somewhat lithe muscular body, but he carried a presence around him that wasn't mistakable. Regal, honorable, a man every one admired. He had on a pair of black slacks, black shoes and belt, and a dark hunter green button up.

The couple stood next to one another, as Aiden and his mother entered.

"Dad, Mom this is Marianne and Aiden Emerson. Aiden, Marianne these are my parents, Gabrielle, and Reed Snyder".

Marianne stepped forward and handed Gabrielle the chocolate basket she had in her hands. "It’s a great honor to meet you".

Gabrielle gave the other woman a warm smile, "Thank you, It’s a pleasure to meet you. Your dress is gorgeous". The brunette thanked Gabrielle and gave her the same compliment and soon the women found themselves mindlessly chatting bout fashion trends. Reed took this opportunity to meet Aiden.

Aiden was intimidated. Reed was a man to be intimidated of. "Nice to meet you Sir." Aiden extended his hand.

"Pleasure." Reed had a strong shake. His power and authority portrayed to the core. Aiden did his best to reciprocate the same strength.

Gabrielle turned to Aiden and introduced herself, Reed and Aiden's mother doing the same. Ryley then finished introducing Jamie, Scott and Emma. And of course Marianne had immediately taken to Jamie. Scott, who Aiden knew was Jamie's boyfriend had also intimidated him a bit. The man was tall, six feet, and in contrast to Reed was toned and muscular. But what intimidated him more was the presence he had in the family, and the relationship he seemed to have with them. Aiden could tell Reed had much respect for the man. Ryley had mentioned Scott had worked for them for about three years, but it seemed even though he was a hired hand at first, there was a lot of mutual respect and trust between the two men, almost as if Scott was actually family and not an employee. The same could be said about Emma. The woman was small with aging grey hair, and still there was a strength in her. She, just as much as Scott was very respected by the family.

The group of people stayed in the lounge conversating for a while, while Emma and Gabrielle finished setting the table. Marianne had offered to help, but Gabrielle insisted she was a guest, and would do no such thing.

And so Aiden and Marianne were being entertained by the guys.

"Ryley tells me you play basketball. In fact, He says you're quiet good at it". Reed said from his club chair.

"Yes, I've played almost my whole life. Aside from school, that's about all I do".

"You know, I played ball in college. It wasn't with the NCAA, I played intercollegiate, but I had a couple close friends who were scouted into the NBA."

Aiden was shocked. He had something in common with Ryley's father. Who actually knew players in the NBA. How many people knew NBA players! Not many!

"I didn't know you played dad," Ryley said happily. He was pleasantly surprised Aiden and his father had something in common.

"It wasn't something I followed very much, films and directing has always been my passion,” smiled the older man, “but I was a huge basketball fan, I followed the Knicks straight for about thirteen years. What about you Aiden, Are you a Knicks fan, and let me tell you, you’d better have the right answer".

Aiden gave a snicker, "I mean no disrespect Sir, but I was born and raised in Los Angeles. I bleed Purple and Gold. But the Knick come at a close second."

Reed chuckled, “Good answer. You’re an alright boy. You know your basketball, and although you’re a Lakers fan, I can live with that. They’re a good team”.

"That they are, they’re going all the way this season," laughed Aiden.

"So what are you plans after high school, planning to play ball" asked the older man.

Aiden paused thinking about an answer. He really didn't want to go into the topic of that. Just talking about it made his chest ache.

He was about to answer when Marianne said, "He's trying really hard to get scouted this season, he’s putting his all into it”. A proud smile as the words left her lips.

"Have any schools looked at you" asked Reed.

"A couple of schools were interested in me, but we had to move, so I don't know if the scouts will call me again, if we don't make it to the finals".

Reed was about to ask another question when Emma entered the room and announced dinner was ready. They all made their way into the dining room.

The table was set beautifully. The food looked delicious. There were mashed potatoes, gravy, homemade biscuits, a honey roasted ham, an oven baked chicken doused in red wine, and a chocolate filled red velvet cake. They all sat down, said a prayer, and began eating.

Aiden found himself having a very good time. He conversed with Reed, Scott, and even Jamie. He found the three of them very easy going, and the initial intimidation was cleared as the evening went on. Gabrielle and Marianne formed a close acquaintance. The two women behaved as though they were long lost friends. They talked about many subjects, and the air around them never grew estranged. Apart from Gabrielle, Marianne had a wonderful time chatting away with Emma and Jamie.

But the person Aiden couldn’t keep his eyes off was Ryley. From across the table, they would lock eyes, which without fault would stain the younger boy’s cheeks a beautiful pink. Aiden couldn’t stop himself from admiring the stunning boy he called his boyfriend.

Ryley was kind. Ryley was sweet. Ryley was caring. Ryley was everything but what Kyle called him, or made him out to be. There was no more denying that.

As the table was cleared, the family and their guests returned to the lounge room, with the exception of Scott and Jamie. Scott had wished everyone a Merry Christmas and had excused himself to leave, but without asking for permission for Jamie to join him. The couple had left together, with a very flustered Jamie following Scott. The rest of the family, and Marianne took a seat on the sofa, Reed occupied his usual club chair, and Ryley and Aiden took the loveseat.

While the older people were engaged in their own conversation, Aiden and Ryley snuggled on the loveseat.

“I really enjoyed myself tonight,” said Aiden.

Ryley laughed joyfully, “Me too. I’m so surprised our mothers get along so well”.

“We’d mistake them for high school girls if we didn’t know any better,” joked the older boy.

“They’re worse than us,” giggled Ryley, “and we’re the ones in high school.”

The pair broke out in laughter.

Aiden took Ryley’s hand into his own, “Thank you, we really needed something like this.” Aiden brought the younger boy’s hand to his lips and whispered, “Meeting you has been the best thing that’s happened to me”.

Ryley’s smiled as he turned scarlet. “I don’t know what I ever did to deserve you.” The sincerity in Ryley’s voice was Aiden’s undoing. The bet was off.

“Don’t say that…you’re the one I don’t deserve…I swear Ryley… I’m going to do whatever it takes to make you happy.”

The younger boy brought his hand to Aiden’s cheek and caressed it. All Aiden could do was lean into the touch, and in reality that’s all he wanted to do.

The night came to an end. Marianne and Aiden excuse themselves and bid the family Merry Christmas. Ryley walked them to the door and gave Aiden a medium sized gift box, which Aiden returned with an even smaller gift he’d carried in his pocket all night long.

Marianne waited close to the elevator, and gave Ryley and Aiden time to properly say good night.

Aiden pulled Ryley closer to him, and brought their lips together. The kiss was slow and passionate. Aiden took Ryley’s face into his hands and finally let all his emotions show. Neither one dominated the kiss, and neither was looking to. It was sweet and tender, two souls finally meeting each other.

“Ryley… I love you.”

“ I love you too Aiden.”

To my reviewers!:



Angel: I'm really happy to see a new face! Name! Whatever! hahaha! im pleased to be meeting your expectations! i hope i dont dissapoint!

Lisa: Wow! Thats the greatest compliment i could ever receive! Trust me! i know how it feels to have a story affect you that way, and to know my little ol' tale did that for you is so sweet! Thanks! And to answer your question, i really dont know! :O I know he's my character but he's a little complex like that! hahaha! i think Aiden doesnt have a problem being with a guy. He of course is attracted to physically attractive people like the rest of us, but i think the reason for him to be with anyone is for the person that person is! hahaha! that sounded confusing even to me! But yeah, he loves PEOPLE! He's a people lover!... Who prefers boys! hahahah! :D

xNicky: Thank you for reading! Im glad youre liking it! :D I'll update as fast and as much as i can!!



So... How was it?! hahah! I hope you guys like! im going to be really busy tomorrow so myb dont expect another update. :( but i promise i'll have something written by tuesday!.. hopefully! :D. Ohh and, i have a feeling the next chapter will be some Scott and Jamie loving! But i really want to focus it on that couple! Should it be in the story, or should i make it a side story?! idk! idk! Help! :D Thanks for reading! Review?!