Love Me One-Shot: Love Another

AN: This is a gift-fic for a friend over on Y!Gallery. If you've never read my Orginal story, "Love Me", please do, because these two characters have a LOT of history. And a few other one-shots. ^_^ Enjoy!





“Oh, I don't think you want that one.”

Kale blinked and looked up, cucumber in hand, as he realized someone was addressing him. This part of the produce aisle was mostly empty, and he glanced around, looking for the person who'd spoken.

“Would you like me to assist you?” A soft sweet voice asked from his left, sounding almost...flirtatious. And definitely male.

Kale looked to his side and saw a younger guy smiling up at him. “Uh...Are you talking to me?” The boy had longish red hair that he'd tucked behind his ears, which were lined with piercings, and he was wearing the traditional black slacks, white shirt, and green apron that marked him as an employee of this market.

The youth smiled, revealing shiny somewhat pointed white teeth, and raised one eyebrow. “Why yes, Sir, I am. I asked if you needed any...” He paused to openly rove his startling green eyes up and down Kale's body, then he smiled wider, gaze returning to Kale's face. “-help.”

After a moment of unsure hesitance, Kale unconsciously stepped back. “Uh...No thanks?”

The boy followed, taking an extra step and getting uncomfortably close. “But, you see, as an expert of vegetables, I can tell you that that particular cucumber isn't right for you. You need something more...” One graceful hand with several silver rings adorning the fingers reached up and plucked the piece of produce from Kale's hand, placing it back in the bin. It came up with a much thicker and longer cucumber, another wicked smile curving that petite mouth. “-substantial.”

The boy, his name tag read Chris, was being overtly sexual, and Kale didn't quite know how to react to it. He hadn't been hit on this strongly since...Well, since Van. But, there was no way this would be ending the same way as that had.

“You see,” Chris continued, oblivious to Kale's inner awkwardness. “A man like you needs something like this.” He waved the veggie up near his face. “Something you can grab, you know, firmly.” Slim fingers tightened in example, the thumb shifting side to side in a not-so-subtle stroking motion. “Something...satisfying.”

As Kale watched the display, unsure of how to gracefully disentangle himself from the exchange, he was suddenly entranced as the redhead actually tilted his head down closer to the green item in hand and snuck out the tip of a very slick pink tongue, lightly touching the bulbous tip of it.

Kale felt his cheeks flame. “Uh...I don't think...Um...Well, I don't need...Uhhh...” His throat suddenly felt too dry and he swallowed heavily, brown eyes riveted on the sight before him. For all it's oddness, this boy nearly fellating a cucumber, Kale thought the scene highly captivating, and he was shocked to feel a flush of heat shoot through him.

The cucumber was moved away, but that tongue stayed out, pointing up and curving over a top lip, and Kale saw a glint of metal embedded in that shiny muscle. A tongue piercing. And Kale didn't like tongue piercings. He was too afraid he'd get too excited and end up biting it off. The sight of that small barbell was enough to clear his head and he stepped back again, smiling politely.

“I'm really fine, thanks. I don't need any help.”

“It's okay, you know.” Chris murmured, following quickly and staying close with green eyes sparkling . “I know you're gay. I've seen you at the clubs, not lately, but a couple of times. I've seen you with that blond. You interested in trying out a newer model?”

Kale gawked at the petite redhead, eyes going wide at the proposition he'd just heard. “Uh...I'm sorry, I really don't...”

“Hey!”

Kale and the boy in front of him both turned to see a very angry blond glaring over at them, pale blue eyes narrowed dangerously. Kale realized that the way the grocery boy was leaning close to him and the way Kale was pretty much looking down almost as if he were going to kiss him, couldn't look exactly promising to unknowing eyes. Hastily, he stepped back again, stumbling this time and almost dropping the hand basket he was holding. “Van, hey, uh, it's not-”

“Back off, you brazen bottom bitch! He's mine!” Van growled, stomping over and digging his fingers into Kale's arm, yanking him back further and stepping in the space that opened up between them. He glared at the redhead. “He ain't for sale, you little tramp, so back the fuck off!”

Kale couldn't keep his jaw from dropping. How could Van talk like that to a complete stranger who'd only been trying to be a little too friendly? It's not like anything bad had happened. It's not like Kale would have flirted back. He cleared his throat, about to step in and apologize to the innocent boy for his lover's behavior, but then Chris grinned a little too fiercely, green eyes going dark.

“I don't see a collar around his neck, Vandy. Besides, when have you ever cared about your toys? Isn't about time you let this one go?”

“Oh please, Chris, you were always after my leftovers, but I'm not nearly done with this one, so like I said, back off.”

“Leftovers?! Ha! That's a laugh! I think you wouldn't know a good guy if he bit you in the ass, and after you'd broken all those poor boys' hearts, I merely went in and helped...” Chris sneered. “-heal them. All the shit they told me about you, man, you really are a worthless individual.” Then the redhead turned to Kale, eyes still narrowed. “You better drop this trash before it's too late. He's nothing but trouble and won't ever treat you like you deserve. Won't do anything but fulfill his own selfish needs. He's just using you to try and pretend he's not a complete and utter whore. Trying to pass of as half-way respectable to make himself feel better.”

That was just about it. Kale narrowed his own eyes and hooked his fingers over Van's arm. “I don't think our relationship is really any of your business. Who I choose to be with is no one's concern but mine and mine alone.” He scowled slightly, upset things had gotten so intense so quickly. Tugging gently as he turned away from the offensive boy, he walked away, Van in tow as they departed.

Kale couldn't even form words because of how angry he was. And Kale didn't get angry. Not often. He got frustrated, miffed, or even aggravated. But not angry. Not ever.

And now, he felt all his blood rushing in his ears, pounding wildly. How dare that guy say such horrible things to Van? When he was right there?! Standing right there next to Kale and not doing anything besides being a little too possessive? It was disgusting! And Van certainly wasn't any of those things. Certainly not a whore or worthless, and certainly not just using Kale. He knew better of his lover and wouldn't ever even think that about him.

Still in his angry daze, Kale didn't even realize that he was at the register and handing over money, until the cashier smiled at him and tried to give him his change. Blinking and smiling apologetically at the girl, he took it and pocketed it, grabbing his bagged groceries and turning back to Van.

But Van wasn't there. A quick scan revealed that Van wasn't even in the store anymore. Kale couldn't see him anywhere, until he glanced outside the front automatic doors and spotted that golden head of hair shining in the sun. He sighed softly and went outside to join him, to see why he'd suddenly been abandoned. Maybe Van was angry? Maybe he was jealous that Kale had been hit on. And yeah truthfully, for a moment, Kale had even given the flirtatious redhead a quick appraisal back. Sure, he'd been attractive.

But it wasn't like Kale would ever act on that. He loved his boyfriend, very much. And he'd seen Van checking out other guys on more than one occasion. He hadn't been too bothered by it. It was human nature to admire beautiful things. But, he knew Van would never act on it either. Never cheat on him. He knew Van too well.

As Kale stepped up beside his silent lover, he caught sight of the scowl set firmly on that pixie face. But even as he was opening up his mouth to ask Van just what was wrong, the blond turned to him angrily and gave him a glare stern enough to make Kale freeze. Then Van was off, stomping across the parking lot towards their car.

Okay, Van was definitely jealous. Or angry. Most likely both.

Keeping up with the quick-stepping boy was easy because Kale's legs were longer, but it was a little difficult to do it with his arms loaded with heavy paper bags. “Van, come on. I know you're upset about that guy, but why? It's not like I was going to fall for that act of his. You think I'd actually go for that?”

Van said nothing, but there was distinct muttering and Kale caught something that sounded like 'cut off', but he couldn't be quite sure. “Van, seriously, I don't fall for cheap ploys.”

That had Van halting in his tracks, and Kale had to sidestep him to avoid knocking him over. Another glare and a furious huff, then Van said scathingly, “You did with me.”

Kale blinked, eyebrows high. “What?”

“You did with me. And that little tramp just did the same thing! I just came up and seduced you! Like a whore! And you slept with me! So, what's to stop you from falling for that whore?”

Kale rolled his eyes then, reaching out to grab Van's hand and pulling the sulking boy in closer. “Van,” He shifted the grocery bags to his side then lifted that slim hand he was holding up to his mouth to gently kiss the knuckles, making Van come even closer. “You were not a whore. And you're not one now. I don't fall for just anyone who comes on to me. You were special.” Using the grip he had on Van's hand, he moved their arms back around the boy's body, pressing to the small of the blond's back, and then he dipped down and kissed Van's mouth.

Kale didn't often like public displays of affection, unless it was extremely necessary, and this was an extremely necessary situation. Van obviously realized this, because he moaned softly and allowed himself to be held tight, kissing back enthusiastically.

After he felt like his point had been made, Kale released his boyfriend's sweet lips and leaned back, smiling softly. “I fell in love with you, not your body or your attitude or the sleazy way you seduced me. You.” Chuckling through grinning lips, Kale kissed him again, briefly, cutting off any irritated protests. “So, you are you calling me easy? Thinking I would chase after the next cute boy who hit on me?”

Van was quiet, brow furrowed, then he frowned. “So, you thought he was cute.” It wasn't a question.

Kale blinked and opened his mouth, but Van was already pursing out those lips and gritting his teeth, then he shoved himself out of Kale's arms and walked stiffly to their car.

Damn, he'd been so close. But now he was back, knee-deep in it.

“Aw, come on, Van! You know that's not what I meant!” But Vander was already standing in a huff at the passenger door, arms crossed and obviously not willing to talk to Kale at the moment. So, Kale gave up and vowed to make it up later somehow, when Van had cooled down a bit.

Honestly, he didn't know why Van was getting so worked up. It's not like Kale didn't have to see him get hit on all the time. Practically every time they went out, Kale was witness to some guy looking at Van like he was some piece of meat and half of those guys ended up coming over and trying to entice Van away.

Yet, did Kale freak out when that happened? Did he sulk and feel hurt and go all crazy? Well...Yeah, he did, but only in his head. Kale had complained once and Van had just rolled his eyes, called Kale a jealous fool, then dragged him to the back room to blow him.

Kale hadn't been able to stop him, of course.

So now, seeing Van all upset over nothing, had Kale sort of upset. He'd meant what he said to Van, that he loved him and believed it had been more than just attraction that had brought them together. Even that first night, he'd felt more than lust. And he was pretty sure Van had felt it too. But, did Van just not trust him? Was that it? There was no way in hell that Kale would ever leave Van, though sometimes, he was sorely tempted to, especially when the blond was in those not-so-rare moods when all he did was be a bitch.

But...that was only joking. Cause honestly, when Kale thought about a life without Van...Well, he got short of breath. He didn't want Van to not be with him. Not ever. He'd gladly take the temper tantrums, the emotional immaturity, the annoying habits, the frustrating fighting. Because all of that was only a small fraction of what he had with Van. Everything else was laughter and kisses and happiness. And Love.

That thought calmed him down. It always did. So, now he was smiling as he got into the driver's seat. And then he turned to Van, ignoring the crossed arms and hunched stance of the blond. “Hey, Van.”

“What?” He all but hissed.

Kale smiled wider, about to witness a miracle. “Want to go dancing tonight?”

It was instantaneous. Van gasped softly, straightened up, and turned to Kale with his arms going down to his sides enthusiastically. “Really?!”

Kale held back a laugh. Van got so thrilled over the simplest of things. Another thing Kale loved about him. His complete lack of holding back. If Van was happy, it was obvious. The boy was easier to read than a book. A children's book.

With lots of pictures.

“Yeah. We can go to Vex, if you want. Or, of course, there's Khaos.”

“Khaos!” The blond sing-songed, shivering excitedly. Minds effectively rerouted, Kale was free to focus on driving now, and Van was already fiddling with the radio, trying to find something to sing along to.

It was a new quirk of Van's. To crank the radio up loud and sing along at the top of his lungs. He still maintained a constant grip on his seat, and Kale didn't ever think that would go away, but the showing of being able to focus on something else besides the other cars made Kale proud. Maybe Van was feeling more comfortable driving with him now? Or maybe he was using the music as a ploy to distract himself. Either way, Kale didn't mind. Even when the music was turned up so loud that his poor beat-up sedan was throbbing from the force of his speakers.

He grit his teeth and just focused on getting them home in one piece. He'd made the promise to Van after all, to always drive safe. And he intended to keep that promise.



~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Van was humming in the bathroom, doing something to finish his outfit for the club tonight and Kale was waiting on the couch. All he'd done was put on some clean jeans and a nice shirt.

Van, apparently, had to completely remodel himself. Shower, hair styling, skimpy clothes, some unidentifiable concoction of cologne, body spray, and deodorant that made Kale's nose tingle, but it had other parts of him tingling too.

Kale checked the clock on the living room wall one more time. He'd been waiting for close to an hour and was getting bored. “Van!” He shouted, standing and stalking to the door, knocking on it quickly. “What's taking so long?! I do have to work tomorrow, you know! I can't be out too late!”

“Hang on, hang on! I'm alllllmost...done...There! All set!”

The door swung open, and Kale stepped back reflexively, blinking suddenly at the sight before him. “Oh god...You're wearing that?!” Every guy in the club would be able to see him. They'd be able to...to...

Van pouted, turning around halfway to peer at himself. “What do you mean? What's wrong with it?”

The blond was wearing dark denim jeans, which were slung so low on the boy's waist, that Kale could see his hipbones, top and bottom, and a white thong which was visible in the back, almost taunting Kale with it's innocent coloring. A skin-tight white tank top contoured to the boy's slender torso, outlining his nipples indecently and not even covering his stomach properly. Belly button was visible. Van had even gone so far as to pin his shaggy bangs back on top of his head, leaving several small tufts sticking up cutely. The effect overall was quite...stimulating.

“You're not wearing that.” He stated blandly.

Van still looked confused. “But why?” He spun around again, shaking his hips because of it, and Kale watched the muscles under that porcelain skin flex from the movement. “Do I really look that bad?” He asked, pouting again, his pretty lips pursing out.

Kale's mouth went dry and he felt his cheeks heat slightly. “It's not...that you look...bad.”

His voice wavered slightly, and Van looked up at him suddenly, eyes flashing immediately. “Oh?” He prowled forward, a grin forming and eyes going heavy. “You're saying I look...” Reaching up to Kale's shoulders, he rose up on tiptoes and brought those curved lips to the shell of his ear. “-good?”

Kale shivered, hands lifting of their own accord and landing on Van's back, pulling him nearer. “Too good.” Involuntarily, he inhaled the rich scent of his petite boyfriend's body, nostrils flaring and tingling. Dipping down, he inhaled again, burrowing into Van's neck and sniffing like a hound dog.

The blond giggled, squirming in Kale's grasp. “Kale!” He giggled again, play-struggling to get away. “Stop that! Oh! Kaaa-le! Ah-ha-ha!”

The familiar heat of his lover's form writhing against his own, had Kale getting a little carried away and he nipped lightly at Van's neck, tongue coming out to taste as well. “Van...God, you...” He kissed where his tongue had been, sucking at the moisture he'd left behind.

Van was moaning softly, still squirming against him, but no longer playing to get away. “Kale...”

“Let's not go out tonight.” Kale begged, voice a rough whisper. “Let's just stay in...”

Van huffed suddenly, succeeding in pushing away this time. “Hey! You promised! You're just trying to get out of going, aren't you?! Well, that ain't happening! Let's go.” With one last withering look, he stormed off to the front door, grabbed his wallet and opened the front door. “You coming?”

Kale frowned. That hadn't gone like he'd meant it to at all. He wasn't trying to get out of going, it was just that he'd all at once been so overwhelmed by the close proximity of Van's body. Come to think of it, they hadn't actually had sex in a while. And Kale hadn't even realized how long it'd been until he was pressed tight to that addicting warmth of the blond. “Van...I...”

“Well? I asked if you were coming.”

Kale sighed. “Of course.”

Van was already out the door and walking down the hall, rather quickly, and Kale had to fight to keep up. Coming up alongside the boy, not a word was said as they made their way down the stairwell towards the street level. Surprisingly, at the main door to their building, Van suddenly smiled back at him, and ran down the front steps, hailing a cab excitedly.

“Van, let's just take the bus, it's cheaper.”

The blond smiled again, face relaxed. “This is my treat.” The smile widened as a yellow taxi pulled alongside the sidewalk, stopping in front of them. “Come on, get in.”

Van was paying for the cab? Not that the boy ever expressed expectation of Kale to pay for everything, but it was just how stuff happened. Kale liked to pay. He liked to pamper and take care of people. More specifically, he liked to pamper Van. And normally, the blond just ate up all the attention and special treatment, but now he was treating?

It was surprising. Nice, yes, but still surprising.

Kale followed Van into the backseat of the cab and buckled his seatbelt as he watched Van do the same. “Khaos on Cherub Street please.” As the car pulled away from the curb, Kale felt his fingers being linked with Van's, and he glanced over to see the blond somewhat shaky, but still smiling at him. “Nervous?”

Van nodded quickly.

“Excuse me, Sir?” Kale asked, speaking to the driver. “Could you make sure to not drive too fast? We're not in a rush. Thanks.” The driver nodded at him, and their speed dropped to a more reasonable number.

Though they stayed quiet, Van kept hold of Kale's hand, and at one point, he leaned over and put his head on Kale's shoulder. So, at least Kale knew that his finicky boyfriend wasn't angry anymore. Or...moody.

They arrived at the club, and saw it was already packed with people. Kale groaned inwardly. He hated the crowds. But thankfully, he knew once they got inside, and they started dancing, he wouldn't be able to notice anyone else in the whole place. Kale got out as Van paid their driver, and he waited for his boyfriend to join him.

Van stepped out too, graceful as ever, and he got a few catcalls from the patrons waiting outside. Kale immediately went on guard. He hated this too. Hated everyone eye-humping his Van. And the most infuriating thing was, that Van didn't even seem to notice. Or maybe that was a blessing. He would only look at Kale, face happy and unaware of his popularity. But...Did Van really not notice? How could he not? After all, before Kale, he'd been quite the promiscuous boy. Chances were, he'd been with half the people in this club alone. Or maybe even more. After Matthew, he hadn't had a serious boyfriend or a steady lover until him, so...who knew how high the number was?

Kale allowed himself to be pulled into the club, watching in more surprise how Van paid their entrance fee without a word, then they were inside. Inside with the pulsing lights and twisting bodies and pounding music. Loud enough to make Kale dizzy, by Van kept hold of his hand, maneuvering through the crowds with the ease of a seasoned veteran used to this sort of scene.

At the bar, Van got the bartender's attention almost immediately, and ordered them two drinks. Two weak drinks. Something Kale could handle and not get sick from. “What is this?” He asked as Van handed him his glass. It was white in color, like a cup of snow slush. But not frozen.

Van only smiled, laying money on the bar and then picking up his glass to take a sip. He licked his lips and looked to Kale expectantly. “It's yummy, is what it is. Try it. I promise you'll like it.”

Kale tentatively took a sip, expecting the bitter burn of alcohol, but...it was actually pretty good. “It tastes like butterscotch.” He said, surprised and having another small sip. It didn't burn at all.

“Isn't it good? I told you.” Then Van took a bigger sip, downing half his glass at once.

“Hey, slow down, we just got here.”

The blond just smirked at him. “I bet you'll get drunker than me off this one drink. I can handle my liquor, unlike some people I know.”

Kale blushed. “That's not fair. I don't drink much, so I have a low tolerance. You know that.”

“Oh, I do know.” Van murmured, sliding up close and reaching around Kale's back to grope his ass. “I've got to get you drunk so I can have my way with you on the dance floor.”

“Van!” Kale hissed sharply, blushing. “People can see!”

“Let them see, then.” He squeezed again, fingers softly massaging along the cleft. “I love how tight your ass is. I could fondle it all night.”

Lids fluttering shut, Kale fought to hold back a groan. Van knew he was sensitive back there, and he always chose to exploit it in public. It wasn't fair at all. Because the blond also knew he was too shy to retaliate.

“Have some more of your drink. It'll calm you down.” Van said innocently, his free hand holding his own glass.

What choice did he have? Kale did as told, and finished off his drink, if only for the excuse to leave the bar and get Van's hands to more publicly-acceptable place. Almost right away, Kale felt his stomach start to get warm, and he felt like he wanted to giggle. Yup, Kale got drunk that fast. Well, not drunk. He'd need one more drink for that, but...He'd get loose.

Sighing comfortably, because really, what was so wrong about Van groping him in public? he leaned back against the bar. Everything got warmer and slightly slower, and Kale wanted to dance. But Van was already grabbing his hand and pulling him out to the dance floor. How did Van know he wanted to dance? And where did his drink go? Did he already finish it?

Out on the floor, Kale felt someone other than his boyfriend grab at his ass, but then his beguiling boyfriend snarled something over his shoulder and they were moving deeper into the crowd. A new song started, pulsing, almost throbbing, and Kale felt his body thrumming on its own. “Van-?”

“I'm right here, I've got you.” The blond whispered heatedly.

But he couldn't really be whispering. The music was too loud. But Van's ears were right by Kale's ear, his hot breath ghosting past his sideburns and making him lower his head to be closer to the boy's face. “Don't wander off.”

Van laughed, a pleased snicker, and Kale could almost see the smirk on his lips. “It's you who has to be watched out for. Some hot thing might come and steal you away from me.” Kale felt his hands being pulled down and settled on Van's waist, and then he felt hot fingers sneaking up over his shoulders and grabbing onto his collar, tugging gently and making Kale dip his head down.

Then Van started dancing, and it was all Kale could do to keep up. Ballroom dancing he could do, but this dancing...It was like Van was just trying to get him hard. That slender form arching and swaying against his, hips shimmying in time to the music and popping back each time the bass got heavier. And always, there was Van's face right near his own and hot breath scented like peppermint brushing over his lips.

It was torture.

And went on for much longer than Kale could keep track of. Soon his shirt was getting sticky, almost drenched with sweat from dancing and touching and moving. But Van was as fresh as ever, skin only slightly shiny and more of a glow than anything else. Not fair at all.

“Mmm, Kaaaale, I love when you get all sweaty. You smell so masculine. I just want to strip you down and rub-”

“Hey there, Cutie, wanna dance?”

Kale turned his eyes away from Van's for the first time that night, looking to their side to see a taller guy smiling down at them. Kale wasn't really sure...which one he was talking to. “Uhhh...”

“I wasn't talking to you. I was talking to Vandy.” He leered at the blond.

Van just stared back uncomprehendingly. “Do I know you?”

“Yeah, it's me. Jack? We went out a couple times, about a year ago? Come on, you know you remember me. We spent that week together in Vegas.” He stepped closer, completely ignoring Kale. “That was the hottest week of my life. I haven't had sex that crazy since...ever.”

Kale was about to punch the guy, and Van was just standing there, looking very awkward and still holding onto Kale's collar. Clearing his throat loudly, Kale pulled Van backwards. “Van, why don't we just go over-”

“Hey man, I said I was talking to Vandy.” He shoved Kale, grabbing onto Van's wrist. “Come on, let's go find someplace secluded and relive old times.”

Kale blinked at the guy, a little shocked. What was with all the strangers trying to intrude on his and Van's relationship? Today, not one, but two guys try to get with them. Each of them. And who the hell did this guy think he was? Touching Kale? Shoving him?

And what the fuck was that shit about Vegas? About crazy sex? God, true they'd never discussed Van's past, but...Well, that was probably why. Cause really, why would Van bring that up unless they were talking about his history? What little buzz Kale felt was rapidly fading.

He stepped forward again, face dark and ready to say something, but Van beat him to it.

“Sorry...Uh...Jack? But I'm with him.” He nodded towards Kale. “I don't mess around anymore.”

The guy called Jack looked skeptical for a moment, then to Kale's shock, he burst out laughing. “Oh god, that's hilarious. Right.” He said, full of sarcasm. “The infamous Vandy, settling down.” He laughed again. “Please, your legs open too wide for me to believe that one. Oh man, if you're busy, just say so. Here,” He pulled out a card and held it out. “Here's my number. If you want to call me when you two are through, I'll be waiting. Maybe we can-”

“No.” Kale said firmly, holding Van's hand.

Jack blinked. “What?”

“No. We're leaving. Van, let's go.” He didn't wait for an answer as he walked away, dragging his boyfriend away for the second time that day.

There were sounds of protest behind him, from both Van and that guy, but Kale ignored them. He retraced their path to the front of the club, then he pushed their way through the crowded front doors, stepping out onto the sidewalk and hailing another cab.

“Kale!” Van huffed, yanking his hand out of Kale's grip. “What the hell?! I'm not a...” He made a frustrated snort. “God, what is your problem?”

“My problem?” Kale asked, keeping his voice calm as their taxi pulled up and he opened the door for Van, who got in without a word. He followed, climbing in and buckling himself in as Van did the same. “My problem. Hmm, my problem. I think it might be Vegas.” Kale stated simply, then told the driver their address.

Van glared at him briefly, then crossed his arms and turned away to stare out the window as they pulled away from the curb.

Kale didn't break his gaze away from the boy. “What was that back there? And Vegas? Seriously?”

Van made a frustrated snort. “I don't want to talk about it.”

“That's not really fair. I do want to talk about it.”

“Kale, fuck!” Van suddenly hissed, voice high. “Look, I never hid my past from you, it's not like I lied about it. You knew there were other guys, you knew I slept around. If you can't deal with that, then I guess this is over.”

“What?”

“You heard me!” Van was shaking, wiping at his face and staring out the opposite window. Kale found it pretty impressive that he didn't even seem to realize the cab was driving rather fast.. “I guess since you can't deal with my alarmingly high number of bed partners, then we might as well end this now, before we get too...” He trailed off, glaring out the window and sniffling.

Kale sighed, and tapped on the window separating them from the driver. “Could you slow down please? We're not in a rush, thanks.” As before with the other taxi, this driver slowed too. Whenever a rider admitted to not minding if the bill was a little higher, the drivers always took more time. Then, once they were at a reasonable speed, Kale unbuckled his seat belt and scooted to the middle seat, rebuckling himself in, even as Van was turning to stare at wide-eyed at his unsafe situation. “I'm safe, okay? It's fine.” Van turned back to the window. “What's this about me not being able to deal with your past? I don't think I ever said that.”

“...Well...You're upset about something.” Van grunted, wiping at his nose again.

“I'm pissed off at that guy for shoving me, and I'm jealous of the time he had with you, and I'm slightly...uncomfortable about the number of guys you've been with, yes. But it's not for the reason you think.”

Van didn't say anything, though Kale was sure he was curious.

Kale could admit why. He didn't have a problem with his own insecurities, nor his shortcomings. “I'm uncomfortable, because I worry about...” Sighing, Kale tried to figure out exactly how to word what he wanted to say. “Compared to other guys...I worry that...I don't...you know...measure up.”

Van whirled to face him, eyes wide and a smile forming. “You're insecure about how I place you in relation to my other faux-boyfriends?”

Kale nodded, feeling his cheeks heat, and he ducked his head. He didn't mind admitting it, but he did mind feeling it.

“Kale, Baby...” Van gripped his chin, forcing him to look back and see that devilish grin. “I've never compared you to anyone else. You're the best I've ever had.” He twisted in his seat, curving his body into Kale's. One arm wrapped around Kale's neck, pulling his head down level with Van's. “The best everything.” Then he brought their faces together, kissing Kale deeply and throwing one leg over Kale's lap.

It got intense very quickly. Kale wished seat belts had never been invented as he hooked one arm around the boy's bared waist and tried to pull him closer, the other arm lifting his fingers to that blond hair and burying themselves in it as his mouth was devoured by his boyfriend's voracious lips. What little leeway they had, they made use of, pushing together and against their belts. Kale even managed to somehow get Van pushed up against the car door, the boy's slim body twisting sideways in the seat.

They were making out like two horny teenagers in the backseat of a car. Which was half-right at least.

Van suddenly broke their heated lip-lock and grabbed Kale's arm from his waist, smirking up at Kale with reddened lips as he lowered their hands down. Kale was made to press along the hot ridge growing in Van's jeans. “Feel that, Baby?” Van asked lowly, panting slightly and arching his hips back and forth into Kale's palm. “That's for you. That's because of you. You get me so hard...” He leaned back in for a kiss, but the driver of the taxi suddenly coughed quite loudly, startling them both.

They were in front of their apartment.

Oh.

Kale unbuckled both his and Van's seat belts at the same time, reaching for his wallet but Van stopped him. “I got it, remember. My treat.” He grinned. “I can be useful at times.”

Kale chuckled. “I know.”

With the bill paid, they both exited out of the cab, barely able to keep their hands off each other, but Kale managed to get them both in the building, up the stairs, and into their apartment. In the darkness of their living room, Kale noticed the flashing light of the answering machine.

Van was already stripping, dropping clothes as he made his way to the bedroom. Only in his thong, he lounged in the doorway, looking more seductive than he should in that flimsy white fabric. Kale gave him a smile, then held up one finger, silently asking him to wait as he checked the machine. Goodness, there were five new messages. He pressed the play button.

The first was from his boss at work, just asking him to call him back on his personal cell number. Must have happened right after they left for the club, seeing the time frame of it. The next was...also from his boss. Again asking him to call. Then the next two were the same, and the fifth and final message was his boss again, finally telling him why he kept calling. Apparently, he needed Kale to come in early, and Kale of course, couldn't say no.

“Crap.” Kale whined, sinking down to crouch on the balls of his feet and sighing in aggravation. “I have to be at work in 5 hours. And I'm exhausted.”

Van made a sympathetic noise in his throat, coming over to him, and Kale looked up, eyes taking in that slim nearly-naked form. “Kale, it's okay. You should go to sleep if you have to go to work so early tomorrow.”

Kale did a double-take. Van actually just said that? He wasn't pouting or whining or telling Kale he needed sex? Kale looked at the blond suspiciously. “That's okay with you?”

Van gave him an innocent smile. “Of course. I'm just going to go shower, and then I'll meet you in bed.”

Kale felt a little grimy, but he would just shower in the morning, and Van didn't mind, of that he was sure. So, Kale just stripped in their bedroom, put fresh pajama pants on, and crawled into bed.

Funny thing was, Van never came to bed. At least, not before Kale fell asleep.



~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~



Kale sighed tiredly as he slowly walked home from the bus stop. The sidewalk was empty aside from him, and he let his mind wander.

Another stressful day at work. And the most frustrating thing about it, was that he wasn't even getting paid for all this extra work. It was the flaw in his otherwise perfect internship. For the past week, he'd been killing himself to try and prove he was the wisest choice for the promotion, and he was pretty sure that he was going to get it, but that didn't mean he could take it easy. Once he graduated in a couple months, he'd have the perfect job waiting for him.

Aside from not getting paid, Kale also had to work longer hours. And he never really knew what time he'd be getting out, so he couldn't really let Van know, other than saying that he'd be 'late'. And he knew Van didn't like that at all.

But there was nothing to be done about it. Hopefully he'd only need to work like this for another week or so, then it'd be over and he'd be promoted.

So tired was he, that he didn't even see the girl until they were bumping into each other. “Ooph!” Kale grunted, the force of their collision forcing him backwards on the pavement.

The girl though, small thing that she was, wasn't so lucky. She was sitting splay-legged on the sidewalk, looking dazed. She blinked owlishly up at him, her eyes full of tears.

“Oh my god, I'm so sorry!” Kale cried, shocked to see he'd made her cry. “I didn't mean to hurt you! Here, let me help you up!” He reached down, offering his hand which she took gratefully, and pulled her to her feet. “Are you okay? Oh jeez, I'm sorry for that, I just wasn't paying attention and-”

“It's fine. Please, I'm fine.” She said brokenly, holding up a shaking hand. “I just...Oh shoot, I-!” She stopped abruptly, sobbing harshly.

“My god, are you okay? I didn't...break anything, did I?”

The girl continued to cry, narrow shoulders shaking from the force of it. “No, no.” She gasped, wiping angrily at her face. “I just,” She sniffled. “-just broke down, down the road, and I called my boyfriend on the phone for help, and some girl answered, and she said they were...Oh god, she said they were dating, and he wouldn't come to the phone!” She descended into sobs again, covering her face and crying loudly.

Kale felt at a loss. On one hand, he wanted to get home and see Van, but on the other hand, here was a helpless girl who was out late at night, alone, and she could get hurt. Kale couldn't just leave her. “Hey, look, I'm sorry about all that. But, truthfully, you should look at it in a better light. That guy's obviously scum, and whatever feelings you may still have for him, at least you're not with him anymore. You're worth more, I'm sure.”

The crying slowed, and watery hazel eyes peered up at him with such emotion that Kale had to step back. For a moment, he worried he'd given off the wrong vibe. He'd meant to comfort, not attract. “Uh, I didn't mean anything like...Um, well, I just...”

But she just laughed, sniffing and wiping her face. “Thank you. It's nice to know there are still nice guys out there in the world.” Sighing, she pulled a tissue out of her purse to properly dry her face. “Well, I guess I can forget about him for the moment. I have more pressing matters to deal with. Do you know the number for any place I can get a tow truck?”

Kale bit his lip and shook his head. “Not around here, sorry. But...Well, I could take a look at your car if you want? I'm not much of a mechanic but, I know a few things. And if it doesn't work out, I live right by here and can at least offer a place to stay for the night.”

She gave him a shrewd look, one tweezed brow arched.

“I'm gay.” He blurted, instantly blushing as she smiled at him.

“Nice to meet you, Gay. My name's Olive.” One slim hand reached out, painted nails shining in the street lamp light.

Kale met her hand with one of his own, shaking once and smiling appreciatively at the strength in her grip. “Uh, I'm Kale. It's nice to meet you, Olive.”

She smiled back, withdrawing her arm and pointing down the street. “My car's down that way, near the stoplight. I managed to get it off the road, but it's making the most horrible noise. I uh...I think I may have lost a tire.”

They began to walk in the direction of the car. “May have? You don't know?”

At this, she blushed, looking somewhat sheepish. “Well...I didn't actually look. There was just this awful grinding grating noise, and I managed to pull over, then I called my boyfriend...well, ex-boyfriend, and then that girl answered, and I just...I freaked out and started walking down the road.”

That did sound quite fast-paced, and Kale made a sympathetic noise in his throat. “I can understand getting a little overwhelmed, but it's really not safe to be out alone this late.”

Olive laughed. “For a cute little thing like me, you mean. And don't worry about it,” She clarified when Kale coughed awkwardly. “I get that a lot. But I'm quite self-sufficient. I've got fingernails like razors, a can of mace handy, and I've got a very loud scream when provoked.”

“That's all well and good, but if someone really wanted to hurt you, he'd-”

“Well, I guess I would get hurt then. But I'm not going to spend my life hidden away like some scared little child.”

Kale didn't say anything to that. It was true, of course. She was right. And either way, it really wasn't his business. Instead, he held his tongue and followed the surprisingly friendly girl to her car.

“So, Kale, if it's so dangerous to be out this late, then how come you're out and about?”

“I take the bus to work, since my boyfriend doesn't really like cars. We only use the car when we're together.”

“What, was he in an accident or something?”

“No, but many people he loved were, and...I know he gets very worried when I drive. I prefer to keep him happy.”

Olive smiled at him. “That's sweet of you. And a shame.” She flashed him a flirty grin. “All the good ones are taken. And gay.”

Kale blushed, ducking his head and stuttering awkwardly. “Uh...I...Uh...”

Olive laughed, the sound oddly deep for her size. And warm. “It's alright, kid, I won't bite. I was merely giving you a compliment.”

The laugh was infectious and made Kale smile. “I...thanks.” He mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck in embarrassment. “So...Your car is close by?”

Thankfully, she let him change the subject, and pointed towards a shiny black convertible by the sidewalk, which was parked quite lopsidedly. Kale walked up to the side and saw that she had indeed lost a tire, it'd been blown to shreds. The grating sound she'd heard was the inner part of the tire, the metal rim, spinning on the cement. But it didn't look damaged. “Do you have a spare?”

Olive was watching from the sidewalk. “Tire? Uh, yeah, I think I have one in the trunk.” She unlocked it with her remote control key.

Kale stood and took a look in the trunk, where he fortunately saw the spare tire and a brand new jack. Grabbing both items he knelt again by the rim and quickly jacked up the car, putting on the spare in a matter of minutes. Then he stood once more, wiping his semi-dirty hands on his pants and smiling over to Olive. “There you go. That should be good enough to get you home.”

“Oh wow, thank you! God, I'm so lucky to have met you tonight!”

Kale only blushed, shaking his head. “Uh...Thanks, I mean, It's not that big a deal, but...”

Olive lifted one brow at him, smirking. “Not that big a deal? Come on. If not for you, I'd be out 'all on my own', remember? A little thing like me?” She laughed. “Aw, I'm just teasing. But, seriously, thank you. Not just for the tire, but...for the kind words.” She stepped forward quickly, almost as tall as him because she was standing on the curb, then kissed him gently on the cheek. “It helped. And here,” She fumbled around in her purse, pulling out a pen and paper and scribbling down her number on it. “Call me sometime. I'd like if we could be friends.” Then she stepped back, unlocking her car and reaching for the handle. “Now go home to your boyfriend. He must be very worried. Goodnight, Kale. It was nice meeting you.” With one last smile, she got into her car and started it up, driving away.

Kale rubbed at his cheek gently, still feeling her lips on his skin. His cheeks felt hot and he found himself watching her car as it got farther away. His life would be so much easier with a woman. With someone like her. So easy.

But...what person in their right mind wanted easy?

Not Kale.

He grinned to himself as he continued his walk down the street, coming to the front of his and Van's apartment in a matter of minutes. The familiar walk up the stairwell to their floor was comforting, and he knew he'd be inside his haven in mere seconds. Which was wonderful. He'd shower and crawl into bed beside Van, and fall asleep gratefully. Sure, he had to get up tomorrow for work, and probably spend the entire day working his ass off, but at least after that, it'd be the weekend. The one time Kale could relax.

He got out his key and made his way down the hall to his door and unlocked it, slipping it open and stepping inside. An instant weight lifted from his shoulders and he sighed happily, taking off his tie and just throwing it to the table by the door.

Yes, Kale was so tired, he didn't even care that he was making a mess.

Without even stopping, he went to the bathroom and took as quick a shower as he could, almost leaping out and drying himself as he walked to the bedroom. Once inside, he was dismayed to see Van wasn't there. Where else could the blond be though? There weren't exactly a lot of places to hide in this apartment.

Perhaps Van went out with friends? Or got sick of waiting and just...No, Van wouldn't do anything stupid.

Kale sighed into the sheets as he lay on the bed, stretching out still in his towel. The room was dark with only the light from the hallway shining in across his face. If not for that, he wouldn't have noticed the sudden shadow blocking out the light. He opened one eyes sleepily, smiling. “Van...”

But the blond didn't answer. Instead, Kale felt the air rush out of him as his boyfriend pounced onto his back, straddling him from behind and giggling.

“Hey lover. Wanna fuck me?” Van whispered seductively into his ear, those tempting fingers already kneading at his waist.

Kale groaned. He wished he could, god did he wish he could, but he was just so tired. It had been a while since they'd had sex, well, a while for them. Almost two weeks now. And not even any oral sex, though not for Van's lack of trying.

But Kale couldn't help it. If he wanted to get anywhere with his career, he needed this promotion. He wanted to be able to support Van. Not that the boy needed it, what with his growing popularity as an artist, but Kale felt like he should contribute something to this relationship. Besides, if Van ever wanted to stop selling and just enjoy drawing again, Kale would be able to take care of them.

“Well, Baby? I'm already hard. I can be naked in 5 seconds.”

It took all of Kale's willpower not to turn over and just...do it. But, he just couldn't find the strength to even move. “Van...I can't...Not tonight...I'm so tired...”

“I can help with that, Lover. Relax...” Then Van was kneading his palms over Kale's back, smoothing away the stress and making exhaustion more bearable.

“Oh god...Van, that feels so good...” Kale signed, burrowing his face deeper into the sheets and letting his body fall into sleep.

“Now now, let's not fall asleep. I'm trying to get you in the mood.” Van chided playfully, hands still pressing into sore muscles and hips gyrating slowly into Kale's backside. “Love me tonight.”

Kale whimpered sleepily. “I love you every night.”

“No, love me tonight.”

“Van...I can't...I'm sorry, I'm just too tired.”

Van sighed a little sharply. “Fine. That's fine.” He remained quiet, though still massaging Kale's back. Kale relished the silence and further. “So...” Van asked quietly, and the room suddenly felt more tense, and Kale felt the hair on his arms stand up at the tone of Van's voice. “Who was that woman?”

“Woman?”

“The one who kissed you on the cheek down on the street.”

“...How...on earth did you see that?”

Van's fingers were now digging into his back. “I was on the fire escape. I was waiting for you to come home and I saw you down the road, a couple of blocks away.” The boy's voice was cold.

“Her name is Olive, and I bumped into her on the street. She was crying because she'd just found out her boyfriend was seeing other girls, and her car had broken down. I changed her tire and then we talked for a little bit. I told her I'm gay and that I'm in a committed relationship. ” Kale kept his voice reasonable. He could understand the confusion. Kale didn't have many friends. And certainly none that were female. Though, he'd like to perhaps be friends with Olive. “Didn't you see me fixing her car?”

“...No.” The blond admitted carefully. “I'd gone to the bathroom. And come back out to see...that. ”

“Well, I didn't know she was going to do it. She'd even said I should go home to my boyfriend as she kissed me.”

“Glad you listened to her.” Van said wryly.

Kale chuckled. “Anyway, she was nice and funny, and reminded me a little of you. So, of course I liked her. Maybe we'll even be friends. But that's all, Van, I swear.” He waited.

Van sat quietly, fingers relaxing and no longer clawing at him. Then he sighed. “Good. She sounds nice. But...I don't want to talk about girls.” He leaned down again, kissing the back of Kale's shoulder. “I want sex. Fuck me. We can do it quick.”

“Van...” Kale groaned, silently trying to will his body to life, but it was just no use. Even that short explanation about the girl had tired him further. His eyes were so itchy and just begging to be shut. “I'm really just too tired. It wouldn't even be good, cause I can't even move.”

“Fine. Go to sleep.” Then Van was abruptly gone, shutting the bedroom door behind him.

Kale lay there for a few moments, slightly bewildered by the sudden departure and the flat tone in the boy's voice. Van never just gave up. Kale had been fully prepared to lightly argue for at least five more minutes.

But now he was worried. Enough so to become more alert and his protesting body woke a little to let him sit up and go in search of the missing boy.

The bathroom door was closed, and light spilled from beneath the crack. He knocked softly. “Evander? What was that about?”

“Go away.”

Was Van crying? His voice sounded odd, but Kale couldn't figure why. “Are you okay?”

“Go away!”

The doorknob wouldn't turn, which meant it was locked. Kale just plucked the nail he kept above the door frame and pushed it into the hole in the center of the knob, springing the lock and unlocking it. There were some things that Van didn't know about. Kale pushed open the door and found Van huddled in the corner near the toilet, sitting with his back pressed to the wall and his head buried in his knees.

“I said, go away.”

“What's wrong?”

Van glared up at him angrily, eyes red. “What the hell don't you understand about 'go away'?!”

“You can't just run away from your problems.” Kale said patiently, concerned eyes staring right back. “You can't just come hide in the bathroom.”

To that, Van snorted angrily, pushing himself up and sneering. “Well, what the fuck am I supposed to do?! You don't want to have sex, and...that's...” Van whirled away from him, eyes flashing with indignant tears. “It's all I'm good for! So why-” He cut off with a frustrated groan. “Just...go away!” With that, he tried to march off, towards who knew where, but it would certainly be somewhere where Kale wasn't.

And he couldn't let that happen. So he snatched at Van's back, a fistful of shirt caught in his fingers, and he slowly pulled the boy back. Not surprisingly, there was no resistance. Oftentimes, the boy would try to run away, but what he really wanted was someone to chase him. Someone to make him know he was important. Someone to force the answer from him, pretty much. Van just needed someone to take control, because he often didn't understand his own emotions, and Kale knew he was needed to help pull them out. “Van...” He murmured, enfolding the stiff blond into his arms and against his chest. “What is wrong with you?”

There was a short bark of laughter, bitter and choked. “Wrong with me?” He pushed away and out of Kale's grip. “Everything.”

It wasn't going to be that easy. Kale just yanked him right back. “No. No, I won't let you...do whatever it is you are trying to do.” His fingers easily sank into that silken blond hair, stroking in a way he knew Van liked. “I didn't mean to sound like that...I'm sorry. I meant, why did you think...What made you think you're only good for sex? I think I've made it perfectly clear that I love you for much more than you're body. Are you really that unsure?”

Van was quiet for a while, but then he pushed Kale away, not violently, but strongly, like someone who just couldn't be touched right now.

“Is this still about the guy at the market hitting on me?” Kale asked in exasperation, running a hand through his hair. “Look, we've been over that already-”

“'Still'?” Van asked acidly.

That took Kale by surprise a little. “Well...”

“It's not about me being jealous, alright?!” Van turned his back to Kale and braced his hands on the sink, fingers gripping the porcelain. “Yeah, I was jealous, but I'm past that. This is something entirely different.”

“Fill me in then, cause I'm really tired of guessing.” Kale sighed tiredly, leaning back against the tiled wall. He'd just about had it with all these games. He was too tired to deal with this.

Van was quiet for a moment, then he took a deep breath. “Chris called me worthless. He called me trash. And a whore. He said all that stuff, and you were right there, staring back at him.” Van made a disgusted sound, turning and glaring back at Kale, his face contorted angrily. “You didn't defend me.”

Kale blinked. “What?”

“He said all the crap, all those horrible mean words, and you didn't say anything back to him. At all! You just dragged me away like some mutt! Why didn't you defend me, Kale?! Why didn't you say anything?!” He was gasping now, deep outraged breaths.

Kale didn't know what to say at first. Was this what's been bothering Van? Kale had thought the blond had just been jealous. Which Kale had thought he'd taken care of that day in the parking lot, telling Van how much he loved him. “Hey, wait. I did say you weren't any of those things. When we got outside, I told you he was wrong. I distinctly remember say-”

“But not to him!” Van insisted, banging his fist down on the sink. “Not to him! I know you don't believe it, but why can't you defend me to other people! I've never heard you tell people what they think of me is wrong! Not at the store, not at the club, not anywhere! What the hell, Kale?!”

Oh god, it was true. Kale had thought he was merely avoiding confrontation. Didn't want to even give the people who slandered Van the satisfaction of a reaction because of course it wasn't true. “I...I didn't want to...react, you know? They didn't deserve it...”

“But I deserve it!” Van shrieked, turning fully and giving Kale a withering look. “I deserve to be defended! Don't you realize how good it feels to have the person you care about defending your honor? But then again, I guess you'd never know that, cause oh god of course no one ever has anything bad to say about you, so I don't even have to defend you, but christ! I would if I had to!”

“Van, I-”

“And it just kills me that you can't even bring yourself to confront people who are hurting me! What happened to the Kale who charged in and tried to save from Blane that night we first met?! Where did that guy go?! And the silly thing is, Kale, is that I didn't even need you to save me that night. But you tried anyway! And you didn't even know me yet! Now that you know me, am I not worth it? Is it that you think?!”

Of course not, of course that wasn't what Kale thought, and he stepped forward, grabbing onto Van tightly before the boy could sidestep him or wiggle away. Holding him close, he stared down with his brow creased, concern and worry on his face. “Van, no, calm down. God, look, I'm sorry. Okay? I'm sorry.”

“You're an ass, is what you are.” Van growled, trying to shove Kale away.

But Kale wouldn't let go. He could be just as stubborn as the blond could, if he wanted to. He could be just as obstinate. “Fine, I'm an ass? Fine. I don't care what you call me, cause I'm still sorry. I didn't even think about what I was doing. All I wanted was to get away from people like that, because they didn't even deserve to be around you, and I didn't want to even be near them a moment longer. I'm sorry, I'm so sorry. I just...I wasn't thinking. And I won't do it again. I'll...I'll fight for you. I promise.”

Van had stopped struggling, and now stayed still, breathing deeply into Kale's chest. “Sometimes...this is so tough.”

“What? Us?”

“Yeah.”

Kale chuckled grimly. “No one said love was easy.”

Van had nothing to say to that, but Kale didn't even worry about it. He just sighed and ran his fingers one more time through Van's messy blond hair. Pulling back, he murmured, “Come on, we're both tired. Let's just go to bed, okay?”

Van nodded, yawning as he did, then exited the bathroom to go to sleep. Kale waited a bit, trying to figure out why Van was acting so different lately. Increasingly, these past few weeks, he'd been more...easily aggravated than usual. More quick to temper. And whereas before, his tantrums had been short-lived and temporary, now they were lasting long enough to actually turn into real fights between the two of them.

Sure, they'd had their spats before, but this was getting intense. It seemed all they did lately was fight, or argue. Maybe that was the real reason they'd stopped having sex. Was Kale using work as an excuse?

...No, that didn't sound right. He was still very much attracted to Van. Still loved him very much. Still wanted to spend every frustrating moment with the boy.

So...What was different? What had changed to suddenly make Van so...volatile?

Kale didn't have an answer. He didn't even have a clue. Best to just let it rest for now, and go to sleep.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Kale had never been so glad to be home. And tomorrow was Saturday, so he could sleep in. Thank god. The whole week had been pure hell. What with work and Van's mood swings and going out to the club, Kale was about ready to crack. All he needed was some much needed rest.

He entered the apartment gratefully, stepping out of his shoes and already reaching to loosen his tie. “Van?” He called softly, looking to see if the boy had waited up for him. Then he jumped.

The blond in question was standing in the middle of the living room

“Van? Jeez, you scared the daylights out of me. What are you doing?”

There was no answer, and Kale then noticed the shaky way Van was standing and that he was holding something in his hand. A bottle. Some clear glass, unlabeled, but obviously a liquor of some type.

Kale sighed, walking over and taking the unmarked bottle from the boy's hand. “Van, you been drinking?” He took a tentative sniff then winced at how strong it smelled. He didn't even know what it was, but it burned his nostrils, and whatever it was definitely wasn't good for Van, being as small as he was.

He put the bottle onto the kitchen counter, near the sink, and figured that Van wouldn't even notice. Then he twisted back to face the swaying boy in the living room. Van was staring off into space blankly, and Kale began to get worried, but then suddenly the blond seemed to notice Kale was in the room, and that unsteady gaze zeroed in on him.

“It was nonly me.” Van slurred, tongue peeking out to wet his lower lip then drag itself back inside.

Kale merely blinked, watching his boyfriend with a mixture of concern and uncertainty. He'd never seen Van this drunk before, and he really didn't know what to do. He also didn't know why Van was plastered. He worried something bad had happened. God knows the boy didn't need any more tragedy in his life. Stepping forward, Kale cautiously asked, “Are you alright sweetheart? Did something happen today?”

Van wobbled on his feet, but otherwise stayed silent as he stared at Kale.

“What about your Grandpa? Did something happen to him? Are you upset because of something like that?”

Van shook his head wildly, throwing himself off balance a little. “Thas not-” He cut off with a hiccup, sniffling loudly. “You never had nanyboddy else, so it's okay. Cause I been thinkin today.”

The abrupt oddness of that sentence made Kale take a closer look at his boyfriend. There was a tremble to that bottom lip, and a sort of glazed fear in those eyes. But he had no idea what Van was talking about. “What exactly are you trying to say, babe?” Then he chuckled, stepping closer to try and pick up the stumbling boy and put him to bed. “Or are you just talking nonsense cause you're so wasted?”

Honestly, though Van liked to maybe have a drink when they went out to the club sometimes, he really didn't drink too much, and when he did, it was only to get that sort of vague buzz that often led to crazy sex.

As he bent to hook his arms under Van's knees, he was surprised when the boy suddenly grunted and shoved him away angrily. “No!” He shouted, lip trembling again. “I'm nott...not washted. I just, you need ta, this t-thing tha...Lissen to me!”

Kale sighed again, crossing his arms and sitting on the couch. “Well, jesus, I'm trying to, but you're not making much sense. Please Van. I am exhausted. Can you tell me what's wrong?”

“Sommun else...” The boy said quietly.

Kale drew his brows together. “Huh?”

Van wetly cleared his throat, coughing once, then he tried again. “You'd...” He sniffled. “Better hoff wit somman else, I thinck...” Van shuddered then, and bent over to dry-heave a couple of times.

Kale sprang in to action immediately. “Van! You okay? Do you need a bucket?! Let me get you a bucket!” He scampered back and raced to the kitchen sink, opening the cabinet underneath and getting the mop bucket, then sprinted back to where his drunken boyfriend was now kneeling on the floor and breathing deeply. “Here, Van, throw up in this.” He held the plastic container forward, nudging it close to that sweaty flushed face.

He got a bleary look of what could only be annoyance from the bent-over blond. “Don't needa bucket.” He shoved the offending container away, sitting back heavily on his butt, frowning. “Need...” Tilting his head up slowly, he whispered. “You need ta sleep with somemun else.”

Kale blinked. “You...You're kicking me out of bed?”

Van scoffed clumsily, slowly getting back to his feet. “No, you...dumb. Go fuck somma nelse.” He slurred, walking clumsily over to the counter where his unlabeled bottle was.

Kale quickly intervened, stopping the boy before he could get the alcohol and tipping the glass container upside down over the sink.

“Hey!” Van complained, fumbling fingers straining to grab back the booze but to no avail.

Kale just held tight and finished pouring the offending drink down the drain. With the glass now empty, he placed it beside the sink, and turned to Van questioningly, crossing his arms. “What's the deal, Van? You want to break up? Is that it?” He hoped it really wasn't, because that would make Kale just about die, but right now, with an increasingly intoxicated boyfriend on his hands, he had to be firm. Pretend to be, at least.

Van snorted once, a cross between a laugh and a sob, and he looked, or tried to look, up at Kale. His eyes were slightly crossed. “You-” A shaky finger was jabbed up in Kale's face. “Need to fuck sommaone else to stay with me.” Blue-white eyes blinked in confusion. “No..wait, so I can stay with...whichu.” He hiccuped again. “With...you.”

Kale was flabbergasted. Not that that made any sense at all anyway, but the meanings hiding in the drunken layers of that simple statement were confusing as all hell. “That doesn't make any sense, sweetheart. You need me to sleep with someone else? To...What? I don't understand.”

“So, I can keechu.” Van wobbled in place, and had to lean against the counter to steady himself. “To keepyu. Keep. You.” He managed, licking his lips in frustration. “Why be I so drunk?”

If Kale wasn't about to rip out his hair in aggravation at the way this conversation was heading, he'd be in danger of laughing at Van's difficulty with speaking. Sighing once and stepping close to Van, he studied his shivering lover. “Van, why would you need to 'keep' me? Why do you think you'd lose me?”

Van sighed, half snorting, and he wobbled away to sit on the couch, plopping back and assuming a sprawled pose that was most likely supposed to look dignified. But Van just ended up looking like a broken doll thrown across the cushions. He was glaring at Kale. “Lemme innuminate for you then.”

“You mean, 'illuminate'?”

Van waved his hand. “Whatever. Anyway, you never had a girl. You never had a boy. 'Cept me. And I found this.” Van fumbled around in his pocket and pulled out a small pink slip of crumpled paper. “This from tha lady friend, yes? A number for booty calls?!”

“Van, that's not-”

“Lady friend! A g-g...Girl!”

“Van, just let me-”

“It's alright though...” Van mumbled, face breaking again into despair. “I already said it's akay, and you can do it.”

“...Do what?”

“Do her.”

Kale groaned, dropping his head into his palms and rubbing at his eyes tiredly. “I am not going to sleep with a girl, Van. I think it's safe to say that I'm gay.”

“Well, how dyou know? Could be straight. You never tried it. How'd you know?”

Taking quick steps to the couch, Kale dropped to one knee, staring his woozy boyfriend in the eye. “Do you want to have sex with a girl?” He challenged.

Van almost gagged, mouth turning down in disgust. “God no. That's gross.”

“Well, I know you've never been with one, so how you know you don't want it?” Kale retorted cheekily.

“...Oh.” Van just bit his lower lip, thankfully getting the message. “Well...You can have Chris then. Cause he's a boy.”

Kale was beginning to get frustrated. One last time, he tried to reason with the way-too-drunk boy. “I don't know why exactly you feel like I need to have sex with someone else, but I'm not going to. You don't have to worry about-”

Van violently pushed himself off the couch, stumbling away Kale. “No! You gotta! Cause that boy, at the store, he's right! He was truth! Telling the...telling the truth! I'm not good, and you didn say he was wrong! So he's wight! Rrright. He right!” He fell to the floor, legs splaying out ungracefully. “An I had thinking thatchu never had noboddy else, and I had evybody so cause I was a whore, you can be too, cause...cause, it wasn right.”

Kale suddenly understood, and he sighed sympathetically, mouth quirking up at the side. “Is that what's bothering you? You think I need to even the score or something? I don't feel slighted, Van. I don't need to 'test drive' other models to realize you're the only one I want. And I'm certainly not going to sleep with another person while you are in my life.”

Van pushed him away once more, arms flailing clumsily as he attempted to get up. “But you have to! You have to or you'll always wonder! You'll want sommun nelse! Cause you never had it!”

Kale sighed again, getting a little frustrated now, and he gritted his teeth. Trying again and raising his arms calmly, he shook his head at the shivering boy. “Van, I am not going to-”

“You must! You must, you must, you must!” Van chanted, voice shrill, body swaying back and forth slightly. “You must, you must, you must!” It was clear he was sobering slightly from adrenalin, but his balance was still horrible.

Completely fed up at not being listened to, Kale just threw his hands up into the air. “Fine then!” He barked. “Maybe I will fuck someone else!”

A look of utter betrayal crumpled Van's slender face into yet more tears. “What? No! You bastard, don't you dare!” He sobbed harshly, eyes blurring and tears rolling down his cheeks. “You prick, you prick prick prick prick prick!”

Kale was at his side in seconds, anger and frustration forgotten in an instant, on his own knees and curling his arms around Van's shaking shoulders. “Hey hey, I was just kidding. I didn't mean I would actually do it. You just wouldn't stop...yelling, and I thought that would make you stop.” His head dipped down, and he nuzzled against soft blond hair. “I'm sorry, sweetheart.”

Van's soft cries could still be heard, heartbreakingly devastated. “No, don't, don't leave me, don't sleep with other people, don't, just don't...” He whimpered, anguished face buried in Kale's sweatshirt and long fingers clutching at his shoulders. “Don't do it, don't...”

Pulling him closer, so Van was half on his lap, Kale tried to calm him down, one arm wrapped around his back and the other behind that blond head, stroking at the unruly mussed-up hair. “Shhh, shh, it's okay. It's okay.” Hot moisture seeped through the front of his shirt and he knew Van was still crying. “Look, Van, baby, I would never leave you. I love you. I could never hurt someone I love. And I would never cheat on you. I'm not that kind of guy. And you don't deserve that.”

Pulling back slightly, he could see Van had calmed somewhat, though his eyes were still wet and red. “R-Really?” He warbled, tentatively looking up from where he was.

“Of course.”

Another soft question. “You...You love me?”

“Yes, I love you.”

Van looked confused for a minute, and he was biting his lip and creasing his delicate brow. “You...You won't...leave me? Or cheat?” He asked, stressing the word and not meeting Kale's eyes.

“No. I will never leave you, or cheat on you. To get me to leave, you're going to have to push me away yourself, cause I'm in this to stay.” Kale watched those watery pale blue eyes brighten fractionally, and he smiled back, wiping away the tear tracks with his thumb. “Van, I love you. You know that. I love you more than I ever thought I could. You're in my thoughts all the time. You're the first thing I think about in the morning, and that's not just because you're always wrapped around me like a vice. And at night, I watch you fall asleep because I can't take my eyes off you. When I'm with you, I'm the happiest I've ever been in my whole life.”

Van was still looking up at him, not saying anything, and Kale knew that that alcohol-muddled brain was processing what he'd said, so he waited, grabbing some of the pillows off the couch behind him and propping them up against it. He slowly lay back and pulled Van with him, the boy still clutching his chest and then he settled them so Kale was on his back and angled on the thick pillows and Van was cuddled into his side.

“Comfy?” He asked, pulling a blanket down too and throwing it over them. The carpet beneath them was plush and soft, and the pillows and blanket kept them snug. It was getting rather late, already after midnight, and he could feel his eyes getting grainy again from being tired. Van was showing signs of exhaustion too, the liquor making him sleepy.

With a slow nod and a slight creasing of his brow, Van released the lip he'd been gnawing on. “You won't cheat.” He murmured softly, seeming to be talking to himself this time. “No, you won't. Cause...I am good enough.”

“You are more than good enough.” Kale said, amused at his lover's behavior.

Van turned up to him, looking almost surprised when Kale had spoken, like he'd forgotten he was there, and then he smiled. “I am. I am good enough. And you don't want someone else neither.”

Holding back a laugh, Kale smiled. “No, I don't want anybody else.”

“Good.” He pursed his lips. “Kiss?”

Kale tilted his chin down the few inches separating their mouths, and he kissed his boyfriend gently. Almost immediately, Van's mouth parted and latched onto his own, kissing him hard. Shaky hands tangled up in his hair and Van snorted onto his upper lip, legs trying awkwardly to climb over his thighs, but too uncoordinated to do so. “Kale...” Van moaned, pink tongue snaking out in the open space following the word to try and catch Kale's.

Kale didn't try to stop him, but he didn't try to help him either. He let the kiss continue until Van pulled back and peered at him with those unbearably sexy half-hooded eyes. He knew what would be asked before Van even opened his mouth.

“Sex?”

Shaking his head, he rubbed at Van's back reassuringly. “No, baby. Sleep.”

A slight wrinkling of that cute nose. “Huh?”

“I can tell you're tired. And no, I'm not avoiding sex with you. I just don't want to have sex while you're too drunk to enjoy it properly.”

Van giggled. “Oh no no, no-no, you silly thing.” The halfway clumsy boy pulled himself up onto Kale's chest, legs hanging heavily over the sides of Kale's hips. “I'd enjoy it. I'd enjoy it. You'd enjoy it.”

Kale quirked a brow at the unskilled seduction attempt Van was trying to pull off. “Uh...Van, I really don't think-”

“Silence!” Van commanded, sweaty palms falling to cover Kale's cheeks, and slim fingers sinking into his hair to hold him in place. Then Van roughly pushed his head back, making Kale's chin point up to the ceiling, and next a slick alcohol-scented tongue was trailing wetly up the column of Kale's neck, licking at his gulping throat.

Against his will, Kale felt his pulse speed up and a flush went straight to his cock, making him twitch at the pebbled moisture of that slick muscle sliding over the bump of his adam's apple. Van's tongue retracted and small sharp teeth nipped at his jaw, biting at the bone underneath his skin. It was clumsy and awkward, Van being still mostly drunk and obviously exhausted.

But Kale was getting aroused.

“Van...” He warned breathlessly, half-heartedly trying to push the boy's sinful mouth away. “Stop...We shouldn't...” Those lips wrapped around his earlobe and he trailed off with a heated gasp, cheeks going red as he felt another wave make his stomach clench and his hips curl up slightly into the juncture of Van's thighs. It'd be so easy to just give in, just let Van seduce him, cause really, it's not like he'd be taking advantage, it'd only be slightly sleazy to screw his boyfriend while he was drunk. Not extremely sleazy. Not at all.

The lips on his ear slackened and moist puffs of steady breath made Kale's neck suddenly feel wetter. Van was slumped over him, body slack and lungs inflating steadily.

“Van?” There was no response. Letting his eyes fall shut, Kale sighed shamefully. Van must have just passed out mid ear-suck, and for that, Kale was only slightly grateful. He was actually already half-hard, and it was pressing painfully up into Van's backside, unrelieved and awkwardly positioned. “Oh jeez.” Well, at least this way, Kale wouldn't have to deal with his internal battle regarding Van's level of drunkenness.

His hands rose to settle around Van's back, and he hugged his love tight, relaxing more against the pillows below his head and letting his own eyes slid shut. The floor was quite comfortable, and the steady beating of Van's heart against his chest relaxed him just enough that he felt himself drifting off.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Kale woke abruptly, blinking up rapidly and wondering why his heart was beating so fast. “Huh?! What?! What's wrong?!” A soft giggle drew his attention upwards. After a moment to clear the sleep from his vision, Kale focused on the source of that cute laugh. Van was still straddling him, though there were two major differences from the night before. One, he was sitting up now, no longer laying forward and tucked against Kale's chest, and two, he was naked.

It took Kale's brain way to long to process that fact, and he found himself staring at his boyfriend's dick, swallowing thickly. “Uh...What...?”

Van smiled down at him. “Morning, lover. Sleep well?”

“Uh...yes? Why are you-?”

Van shushed him, pressing one finger down to his lips. “No no.” He tutted, grin widening. “No questions. I want to pick up where I left off last night.” That willowy body ached down, chest falling to Kale's, and Van's breath was suddenly on Kale's lips. “I apologize for falling asleep on you.”

Disoriented at being awoken so abruptly and so oddly, Kale couldn't really follow what was happening and he swallowed thickly. “Wha...How...how are you not hungover right now? And...how do you know what happened last night?”

Van giggled again, kneading his palms over Kale's nipples lightly through his shirt, lips still inches away. “I wasn't as drunk as you thought I was. It's not like I blacked out or anything. Most people who say they can't remember what they did the night before, are just using that as an excuse to behave badly and not have to pay the consequences.” Van's breath wet their mouths. “I, on the other hand, have no need to pretend last night didn't happen. I know what I did and what I said, and I know what you said. And I want to show my gratitude,” A devilish smile. “-to an honest and loving boyfriend.”

Kale's brain was catching up, but his body was moving much quicker, pulse quickening already and skin feeling flushed. Van's naked skin made him want to grab and fondle, but he held back, still partially confused. “But...you're not hungover? You drank so much...”

“Well, I woke feeling slightly groggy, yes. But it's almost noon. I woke up hours ago and I had time to eat and shower and then wait for you to wake up. Though,” Van giggled impishly again. “You were taking forever, so I decided to have a seat.” There was some wiggling, little circles of Van's hips swirling over Kale's. “And now you're up!” The blond sighed, smiling. “I'm so glad.” Lips collided.

Kale let himself be kissed, because really, there was no way to avoid it, and even if there was, why would he want to? So, he lay back as soft lips molded to his own and easily overtook his earlier confusion. There was something different about this kiss. Something...more hesitant that usual, and Kale realized that Van was trembling slightly, thin fingers clenched tight in his shirt. Careful not to pull away too quickly, Kale tilted back, eyes questioning and then wide as he noticed Van had been watching him during the kiss. “What's wrong?”

“I love you.”

Kale almost choked. “What?”

Van sat back abruptly, blinking quickly and looking like he'd just made a mistake. “I...love you?”

His face a completely blank slate, in contrast to the turmoil inside, Kale calmly asked, “Is that a question?”

Van opened his mouth once, closed it quickly, then opened it again. Then, with his mouth slack, he looked wildly around the room, eyes darting to see nothing.

Kale sat up, causing Van to scoot backwards on his lap and stare back worriedly. He could tell Van was about to make a run for it, his typical reaction in times of stress, and Kale looped his arms around the blond's back, trapping him to his chest. Van made a soft whimper, but otherwise didn't protest. He still wouldn't meet Kale's eyes though.

“Evander.” Kale said sternly, voice still soft. “Was that a question, or did you mean it?”

“I didn't say anything.”

Kale felt his breathing speeding up, and he hid a smile. “So, you don't love me?”

It was almost comical how wide the boy's eyes suddenly got. “I don't...I didn't...”

“Because I love you. I love you with all my heart. It would be fantastic if you loved me too. Or at least, since I already know you love me, it would be great if you could say it out loud.”

Now Van was panting, though not from excitement. The blond was about to panic, and Kale embraced him tighter, bringing their faces close, making Van look him in the eye.

“Do you love me, Van?”

“I...I...I...”

“Please, Van. Please tell me if you love me. If you don't that's fine, but I need to know. If you don't, I'll still love you. I love you regardless. I'll ask one more time. Do. You. Love me?”

That slim throat contracted wildly, the boy trying to swallow his own tongue apparently, then he took one trembling breath and nodded, quick and curt. “Yeah...”

“Yeah, you do? Or yeah, you don't?” Which didn't make sense, but Kale could admit he was a little bit desperate to hear Van actually say it.

Van made an almost pained face, silently pleading, which Kale ignored. Seeing his obvious refusal to let him get out of it, Van took another deep breath, psyching himself up, then he looked back into Kale's eyes, his whole body trembling. “I...do. I...uh...love you. I love...you. Kale.”

Everything at that moment pinpointed to those simple words and fell silent as Kale closed his eyes to better relish what his boyfriend just confessed. All at once, he felt warm and cold and a shiver ran up his spine. “Oh god, Van, that is just, that is the best thing I've ever heard. Ever. I love you too. I love you, Van, I love you.”

“I...” Van's voice warbled. “Why isn't it the same?”

Kale blinked open his eyes, still smiling, but confused. “What isn't?”

Still panting softly, Van's whole face was a wave of different emotions. Some good, but most of them bad. “This. It doesn't feel the same as...”

“As what?”

“As...Matthew. It's not...” Van frowned. “I didn't feel like this with Matthew.”

That didn't sound good. “You mean...You don't love me as much as you did him?” Kale could live with that. Probably. Or probably he'd just shoot himself. He'd had enough of this living up to the dead ex-boyfriend. Yes, it was selfish, but Kale wanted to be the only one Van wanted. The only one he thought of and dreamed of and loved.

Van was growing still, breathing slowing to a calmer level. “No...I mean, I thought I...loved him. But...I never felt...like this with him.” He looked away. “I never felt this strongly with him.”

Kale did a mental cheer, trying hard to keep from shouting with glee. “Oh really?”

Van sounded sad now. “Yeah. Does that mean...Does that mean, I never loved him at all? That it was all nothing?” He looked to Kale imploringly.

“No, god no, not at all, sweetheart.” Kale nuzzled his nose to the side of Van's head, rubbing their cheeks together and stroking down his back. “I can only assume because you were so young, that it was just a different type of love. And now you're a little older, and so it's different. I wouldn't know though. I've never been in love, until you.”

For several long minutes, Van sat, face unreadable, then, like a switch being flipped, it went from pensive to passionate. Gracefully, he twined his naked body against Kale's, smile set firmly in place. “My boyfriend's so smart. Why don't you give me a lesson, Professor?” He attempted to nip at Kale's lips, but Kale just moved away.

“Not like this, Love.” And when Van blinked in confusion, Kale just bent his knees and grabbed Van, picking him up and standing. He ignored the protesting questions and just marched them both to the bedroom. There, he set Van on the bed and stepped back to shut the door, then he returned to the blond, crawling up onto the mattress and over Van's reclining form.

Van smirked at him. “Ooh, does the teacher want to instruct the student in private? Yes, teacher, I've been-”

“No, Van.” Kale interrupted, cutting off the boy's impending roleplay. “I'm not letting you hide behind sex.” True to his word, Kale pulled one of Van's suddenly tensed hands up to his mouth, and he pressed a kiss to the sweaty palm. “It's just you and me, and we're all alone. There's no need to pretend.” He nuzzled his lips to the creases in the skin, biting softly.

“I'm not...” He trailed off with a frown. “What are you doing?” Asked Van somewhat breathlessly, still managing to sound indignant.

“Loving every inch of you.” To punctuate that, Kale sucked a fingertip into his mouth, lips sealing around the curved digit and tongue softly running over the raised indentations of the pad.

Van groaned in exasperation, falling back to the bed with his eyes shut tight. “God, you are such a...”

“A what?” Kale whispered, licking along the knuckle and biting at the sensitive webbing between each finger.

Van only groaned again, sounding decidedly more flustered than before and a quick look to his cock showed it to be hardening and twitching faintly. Good sign. Then again, Van rarely had trouble getting hard. Very rarely.

The blond's stomach was fluttering as well, the muscles clenching then releasing quickly. Kale held back a smile. Van was getting very excited. Kale reached down one hand and brushed the back of his knuckles across that taut surface gently, loving the way the boy's breathing hitched and he turned his head to the side to close his eyes. That could be allowed. Trying to hide away behind shut eyes was fine, because Kale knew that Van wouldn't actually be able to ignore what was happening.

His mouth moved slowly from fingers to the palm, and he pressed kisses past the boy's wrist then down his forearm. At the inner crease of Van's elbow, Kale paused to nibble, closing his own eyes and instead focusing on the tiny flossy breaths coming from his boyfriend's mouth.

Not only had it been a long time since they'd had sex, but even when they had had sex, it had been rushed or spontaneous. It was always nice, fulfilling, and quite satisfying, but Kale had almost forgot how much he enjoyed mapping out Van's body.

The faint freckles on the boy's arms, the tiny scar on his shoulder he'd gotten as a child, a few sparse blond hairs on his chest. Kale trailed his mouth over them, tickling his lips and still kissing, making his way down to a pale pink nipple and grazing over it.

Van moaned then, and Kale glanced up to see him with one arm, the one Kale hadn't been kissing, thrown over his face. Those pretty lips were parted, letting quickened breaths in and then out as gasps. Music to Kale's ears. And lovely enough to make his body react, his muscles all tightening in anticipation.

But, he wouldn't rush this. He wanted to bring Van to the edge, then leave him teetering until the poor boy couldn't take it anymore.

Or until Kale couldn't.

Returning to his task at hand, Kale leaned back down and ran the flatness of his tongue over one pink nipple, slowly and tortuously.

“Kale...Oh god...not like this...It's been too long...”

Ignoring the heated plea, Kale sucked that slickened bud into his mouth, sealing his lips around it and nursing gently.

“Uggghhn...oh god...” Van whimpered, dropping one hand heavily to Kale's hand and sinking shaky fingers into his hair.

That thin chest shifted, whether trying to get away or trying to get closer, Kale couldn't tell. But it didn't matter. He circled his tongue around, teasing and stroking, then he pulled back with an audible pop, replacing his mouth with his hand and tracing gently around Van's nipple. With that one taken care of, Kale descended on the other one, giving it the same soft treatment and making Van writhe more fitfully.

“Ah stop, Kale....Ahhn...You know, oh god...you know what that does to me...” Van had tried to sound commanding, but Kale could hear the tremble in that voice.

Letting the now-reddened bud free from his mouth, Kale directed his sight downwards. Van was completely aroused now, hard and laying on that flat stomach, glistening at the tip.

Kissing and biting a slow winding trail from chest to stomach to hips, Kale eventually made his way to that twitching length, nosing the soft skin around it and the inner juncture of hip and thigh. Van was breathing sharper now, anticipation thick in each puff of air. Bracing his hands on the boy's hips, Kale teasingly ran the tip of his tongue up the veined underside, smirking as Van moaned shamelessly.

“Kale! Oh god yes, just like that...”

This time, Kale listened, following the boy's pleas and taking him in one loose fist to direct to his mouth. He licked again, circling the head once, then kissing it reverently before opening his mouth and taking it in as far as he could go. Not all the way, but still enough to have Van rustling those slim hips back and forth. With his mouth occupied, Kale glanced upwards from his perch to see Van's face soft and flushed, pale blue eyes shut tight and teeth gnawing on a bottom lip. He kept his gaze fastened to his love's face as he began to suck, bobbing his head up and down slowly. All the while, watching.

He loved doing this for Van. Not only was the boy's skin addicting, all salty and sweaty and musky, distinctly Van's own male taste, but Kale always loved doing this because it was Van. Whereas his petite blond lover enjoyed giving head merely for the simple act of giving head, Kale did it for the pleasure he could give. The majority of his enjoyment in the act was simply because Van liked it.

Kale did lots of things he wouldn't normally do just because Van liked it. In a good way.

Van was crying out now, his usual obscenity-filled moans replaced with something softer, more inarticulate, and Kale felt his stomach flip and he brought his other hand into play, palming the blond's testicles and kneading them carefully. Perhaps Van was just overcome with emotion? Perhaps he was so filled with love and adoration that he couldn't bring himself to talk dirty like he usually did?

“Oh fuck Kale! Suck me harder, make me cum with your dirty mouth!”

...Or perhaps not.

Not that Kale was offended. Van just like to use...colorful words during sex. Kale smirked as Van ceased his sex noises and started to urge him on, using words Kale hadn't even heard before. So...maybe this was reversed from what he originally assumed, but he still thought Van was a bit overwhelmed from his earlier confession.

Kale sucked harder, very carefully grazing his teeth over Van's cock. Van only shuddered and two hands flew down to press Kale's head deeper, body rocking up disjointedly.

“Fuck yes...oh fucking fuck yes, just like that, like that, oh god...Oh god!” Then Van was digging nails into Kale's head, crying out loudly and fucking Kale's mouth.

He felt Van come in his mouth, that wet bitter heat splashing over his tongue, and he did his best to swallow all of it. Though, since it had been a while since they'd had sex, there was a lot. He remained until Van collapsed back onto the bed, erection already softening as he released it from his mouth.

Quite pleased with himself, Kale stayed low, kissing around Van's belly and hips, continuing his tour of Van's body. But as he started to make his way down one of those long toned thighs, Van was suddenly sitting up and grabbing onto his shoulders. The abrupt movement had Kale surprised and pliant, and he found himself on his back and Van climbing over him languidly. He tried to sit up.

“No,” Van panted, two hands on Kale's shoulders to keep him down. “Now it's my turn. Just...” His breath came heavily. “...lay back.” Then Van shifted his hips, nudging himself backwards against Kale's cock, taking it in one hand and rubbing it along the cleft of his ass. He moaned. “Where's the lube?”

It was obvious that the blond needed some semblance of control back, and Kale didn't mind letting him have the reins for now. Reaching to the side of the bed, he grabbed the lubricant and a condom, pulling them out and laying them on his stomach. Van picked up the lube and drenched his fingers in it, his movements still slow and jerky. The slick hand went behind his back and reached downwards, and Kale could see the knuckled from between the boy's spread legs, slowly moving in and out. But not for long, because Van didn't need it.

Then he was reaching down and coating Kale's neglected erection, making him hiss from the feel. Kale was confused and he was about to ask, but Van beat him to it.

“Do it bare.” Came the blond's fervent request, eyes smoky and low-lidded.

“What?” Van was still stroking him and making it hard to think. “You mean, no condom?”

“Yeah.” Van's voice was hesitant, soft and slightly unsure. “I know you're clean. You know I am...?” That last sentence was more question than statement.

Kale just nodded. “Yeah, I know.”

They were whispering. Somehow, this unchartered territory was making it feel slightly secretive. Somehow devious. And though Kale could tell that Van was a bit afraid of his own suggestion, Kale knew they both wanted it, and Kale felt strangely calm. He rested his hands on Van's hips, fingertips brushing over the sweaty flesh lovingly.

Van's hand on his cock had ceased movement.

Kale kept stroking Van's hips, not moving anything else. “Van, if you want to...I want to too.”

Van shivered. “I never did it before.” He confessed quickly, nervously.

Well, that was new, Kale thought. Not bitterly, but somewhat surprised. Everything he'd done with Van, sexually, had been Kale's first time, but not Van's. Now...Here was something they'd be doing for the first time together. And that was very exciting. Kale couldn't keep himself from jerking against Van's hand.

That had blue eyes glancing at him in approval, and Van was moving again. He arched his spine, hips dipping backwards and hand still on Kale's cock, guiding it towards himself.

Nothing was said for the long moments before skin met skin, then Kale felt the puckered tightness of Van pressed against the very tip of himself and his eyes became riveted to the sight of entering his love's body. He felt everything.

Not just the tightness, but the heat intensified, and an almost painful texture which made him groan and his head fall back to the pillows, tearing his eyes from the wondrous sight of connection. Even though his body suddenly felt weak as all his senses centered on that one enveloped piece of his body, he still managed to raise his head a few inches to peer down as Van sank the remaining inches, sheathing him completely.

“Van...oh god...it's...” But Kale didn't even know the words, and he forced his vision upwards to check his love's face, to make sure that all was right.

Van's cheeks were flushed, pinker than normal, and his eyes were liquid, almost...wet looking. Kale reached up with one hand, but Van gave a quick shake of his head, breath hitching and hips rising once. The resulting friction was enough to make Kale's toes curl and he grabbed ahold of the boy's hips harder, stilling him. “Slow...It's...good. Better. It's...Van...you're...so...” Kale panted, searching those pale blue orbs for who knows what.

Van was stroking himself, rapidly getting hard again from the feeling of being impaled on Kale. He'd often said before how he could probably come from just that feeling if Kale would let him, but Kale often couldn't keep his hands away, wanting to help his lover as much as he could. And he also just liked feeling Van jerk in his hand, spasming as he came. He groaned softly at the thought, trying to get the blond's attention.

Their gazes met, and Van moved again, rising and falling slowly, then steadily faster and whimpering sharply at each dip. Kale couldn't tear his eyes away as he watched the blond ride him, face drawn tight with a pleasure and eyes staring straight at him.

“Van...Is it....” Kale asked softly, as his own breath hitched from the careful rocking thrusts of Van onto his cock. “...Do you...?”

“Kale!” Van suddenly cried, eyes sliding shut and head falling back. “I...I feel you! Oh god, I feel you!” Then he picked up his speed, almost slamming down onto Kale, voice ratcheting higher at each drop. “Oh Kale, oh yes! I...Uugghhhhn! Fuck me!” Nails clawed down Kale's chest, asking for help silently.

Pushing himself up into a sitting position, Kale temporarily stilled Van's swaying body, scooting down to the edge of the bed and ignoring the boy's heated protests at the hindrance as he planted his feet on the floor. Then, sliding his hands down that sweat-soaked back to rest once more on Van's hips, Kale helped him move again.

“Kale! Yes, harder! Fuck me harder!”

Arms raised up and draped loosely over his shoulders, so Kale took complete command, keeping hold of Van's hips and leading him, helping him ride and arching up to meet him. Van was quickly incoherent again and crying out harshly, his sweaty forehead falling to rest on Kale's equally sweaty shoulder tiredly.

Their lovemaking was jerky, unrefined, and slightly out-of control. But it was good. More intense than Kale could ever remember, and he grew closer with each tight thrust into Van's welcoming body. Nuzzling the side of Van's neck, Kale tried to get his attention, tried to bring that face towards his, and Van leaned back, eyes unfocused and mouth already parted for quick pants.

Kale bent in to capture that sweet rosy mouth, molding their lips together and sweeping his tongue in at once to snake around Van's. The blond moaned, meeting him and dueling with that slick pink muscle of his own. They twined together, hips still moving furiously, body still straining towards each other, then Kale gasped, feeling that burning heat inside him suddenly coil tighter and he broke away, digging his fingers into Van's hips and forcing himself as deep as he could go into that willing body as he came, hard. “Oh god, Van, Van, I-Uugghhnn!” He felt himself still coming, and the knowledge that he was actually coming into Van's body, made him cry out again.

Van suddenly twitched, breath hitching and body squirming against him wildly. “Kale! You're-! Oh god, Kale!” Then, he cried out harshly, his whole body convulsing heavily and those muscles still gripping Kale, gripping harder still. Wet heat splashed against Kale's stomach sporadically, dripping down between them thickly. All they could do was cling to each other as they rode out the aftershocks, each of them gasping.

Then, Kale fell backwards, to the bed, and Van followed, landing heavily on his chest and groaning at the angle. Kale, slowly softening, began to slip out of Van, and Van arched his backside, hand stretching back shakily to help remove it. Then he fell forward once more, rolling off of Kale's body and landing haphazardly at his side.

“Shit...That was...”

Kale panted quietly in agreement. “Yeah...”

“Did I...feel any different to you?” Van queried nervously, looking up at the ceiling.

“God yes. It was like...I can't even describe it.” Kale looked over. “Did it feel different for you?”

Van didn't answer right away. Then, fidgeting slightly, he coughed in embarrassment. “...Yeah. I could feel you...uh...come...” He trailed off breathlessly.

“Really?” Kale asked, somewhat embarrassed and he didn't know why.

“...Yeah.” Van had one hand on his stomach, and Kale watched it slip lower, over the boy's softening length, and down between his legs. “I can...” Van's cheeks were rosy.

“You can what?”

He turned his face up, eyes big and biting his lip. “I can feel it...in me. Your cum.” That throat contracted as he swallowed heavily. “I like it. A lot.”

Kale was speechless. And hot all over.

Van fidgeted. “I wanna do it again.”

Kale couldn't help it. He laughed, long and hard, so happy that he couldn't keep it in. Van started snickering beside him and it was very nice. Eventually their laughter slowed and turned into comfortable silence.

Together, they lay spent, bodies still somewhat entwined. Kale on his back and limbs splayed out, with Van's head on his shoulder and one slender leg draped across his hips. The view down at Van's open and exposed body was nice. Nice enough to get him staring. Van's voice brought him out of his reverie.

“Loving someone isn't an easy thing, you know.” Came that somewhat thoughtful voice.

Kale glanced sideways and grinned. “I know.”

Van continued as if he hadn't heard him. “It's so...emotional and...frustrating. Like, how was I supposed to know I'd feel so...different if I let myself love someone? I don't think I've ever been jealous before, and I felt so...unsure.”

“Is that why you've been so moody lately? Because you've been feeling guilty and jealous and unsure?”

Van grumped, but was obviously too sated to actually get angry. “I guess so. I mean, I've just felt so...weird around you. Like, I couldn't ever be...good enough or something. Like, I was so inadequate. I didn't like it.”

Kale closed his eyes and leaned closer to Van's face to nuzzle the side of his neck. “I don't think you're supposed to like it. And you're not inadequate. Not at all.” Remaining pressed to his boyfriend's neck, Kale sighed happily, letting his body relax completely into the indentation of their mattress, which cradled them both snugly together. “I love you.” He left it open-ended.

Van smiled softly and quirked his lips, but then he nuzzled back. “I...love you too. I don't know why it was so hard to say that. I knew I did for a while now, but...I guess knowing it and saying it are two separate things completely. Saying it is so much harder.”

Kale just wanted to spend the whole day in bed, reveling in the bliss they now shared. In fact, he decided to do just that, and not even move at all. “I always knew you loved me. And I knew you couldn't say it. But, you're right. Knowing and saying are different. And hearing it is on a whole other level.” He smiled, laughing softly and poking Van in the stomach. “You love me.”

Van smiled too, a faint rosy blush on his cheeks. “Yeah. I do.”

THE END


AN: If you liked this, please review! And please check out my other Originals and Fanfictions!