Lovers 2 (AU Max/Nick; ADULT) [COMPLETE]

[Applebylicious]

Title: Lovers 2: Testosterone Overload
Author: Lindsay
Category: AU Max/Nick; Max/Liz/Nick
Rating: ADULT
Disclaimer: The characters of Max and Liz belong to The WB, Melinda Metz, and UPN. However, Nick Gannon is all mine.
Summary: A road trip brings two lovers closer together...
Author's Note: If you haven't read my fics Not So Little or Good Things Come to Those Who Wait, then you're going to be in the dark about who Nick Gannon is. So to simplify, I'm going to state that he is an original character of mine. This story has nothing to do with NSL or GTC, in fact it's a complete AU stand-alone fic, all for fun. This is also the sequel to Lovers.. There is male/male sex in this, so if that isn't your thing... you might want to move on. This fic is primarily Max and Nick, but Liz will be popping up later as well...


*Dedicated to all you Testosterone Overloaders out there! I love you all.*



Best Slash Fic



(Nick Gannon)</center>



<center>Lovers 2: Testosterone Overload</center>




Nick POV


“Are you hungry?”

“I could eat,” I answer lazily, stretching and yawning as I watch the blades of a ceiling fan slowly turn. “Damn, it’s hot as hell in here.”

Max smirks at me, his sexy lips curving as he glances over from his spot on the motel couch. “Get naked then.”

“Are you planning on taking advantage of me?” I coo, batting my lashes at him as I slip my hands beneath the thin cotton tee. “Be still my heart.”

“Such a smart ass,” he snorts, returning his golden gaze to the television where an old Bruce Willis movie plays.

“You love my ass,” I return, pulling the shirt over my head and tossing it in a corner. I recline back, chewing on the end of a toothpick. “I thought you were gonna get something to eat…?”

“Do I look like your bitch?” he asks, then rolls his eyes heavenwards. “Don’t answer that.”

I simply smile wickedly. But before I can say something that would undoubtably start some fun, the bedside phone shrills. Max practically leaps over the bed to answer it, his voice husky with effort.

“’Lo?”

I immediately know who’s on the other end as a pleasured smile lifts his lips, and his voice becomes softer, more intimate. “Hey, baby…”

I walk over to the bed, sitting beside him to better hear what Liz has to say. Leaning in close, my nose touches his neck and I allow myself to nuzzle the bristly skin for a moment before nipping it lightly with my teeth.

He jerks, looking over his shoulder. “What…? No, it’s just Nick fooling around,” he frowns at me, although there’s no real censure in his gaze.

I smile, leaning closer and holding his gaze. “Hi, Liz,” I murmur into the phone. “Lover Boy here sure misses you,” I add, running my hand up his thigh to rest below the rapidly growing bulge in his boxers.

“Cut it out,” he whispers, covering my hand with his. “Stop trying to distract me.”

“Nick, are you giving Max a hard time?” Liz giggles over the line, her sweet voice purring and provocative.

“You know it,” I return smugly, pushing aside his hand and continuing my exploration. “An extremely hard time.”

“You two are so bad,” he complains, although he doesn’t try to stop me again, merely leans back on his elbows as he cradles the phone to his ear. I can’t hear Liz anymore, but I can tell that the mixture of my touch and her voice is quickly stirring Max up.

“Oh, yeah,” I mumble, sliding my hand inside his shorts and filling my palm with his flesh. “A little tense, buddy?”

“Fuck you,” he groans, arching his hips as I squeeze him snugly. “Not you, baby,” he rasps to Liz. “Not that I wouldn’t like to…”

I chuckle, reaching up to grab the phone. “Hey, babe… we’re gonna have to call you back,” I say into the receiver. “I’m about to suck your boy’s dick right off.”

“Ooh…” Liz teases over the line. “Getting antsy over there, are ya?”

“You know we didn’t want to come on this damn trip,” I say honestly, meeting Max’s eyes. “We’d much rather be with you. Fucking that pretty ass and pussy. God, I’m getting horny just thinking about it.”

“Don’t listen to him, Liz. He’s always horny,” Max calls out, and we all laugh.

“Okay, you two take care of each other, then call me back later,” she sighs. “I’m feeling lonely.”

“We love you,” I murmur, feeling the same strange thickness in my chest I experience every time I’m with either of them.

After Max says his goodbyes, I’m wild with lust and hunger, knocking him flat against the bed before he has the chance to place the phone back in its cradle. It falls to the ground, forgotten, as I grind my hard cock against his.

My lips find his in a desperate clash, and I drive my tongue inside his mouth, ramming my hips against him. He notes my urgency and brings his big palms up to cradle my face before gentling the kiss.

“Where’s the fire?” he murmurs in a husky voice, his own eyes clouded with desire.

“In my pants,” I quip, unable to put into words exactly how I feel. I’ve never been comfortable admitting my feelings. Not even to Joe, and Lord knows he’s like the only family I’ve ever really known.

Even Serena doesn’t know the truth about my relationship with Max and Liz. Only Joe, and instead of freaking out or getting disgusted with me, he simply gave me that look of his.

“If they make you happy, Nick, then it’s a good thing.”

I don’t know how he always knows exactly the right thing to say. But I can’t deny that hearing the words did help me feel better.

After discovering that not only did I harbor feelings for a long-time friend of mine, but that I felt seriously about another male friend… well, I needed for someone to tell me it was okay.

“Hey, where are you?”

I look down and into Max’s concerned face. “Sorry… I was just thinking.”

A knowing light fills his gaze. “You’re worried about the guys finding out.”

There’s no accusation in his tone, simply resignation. His quiet acceptance sends a pang of guilt through me as I realize that he’s partly right. I want to fuck him within an inch of his life, but I honestly don’t know what I would do if Michael, Kyle or Alex happened to walk in.

“We don’t have to do anything,” he adds, slipping out from under me and rolling his shoulders.

I stare at the defined muscles in his back as they shift and bunch, and am still slightly shocked at the arousal that burns through me. “I want to,” I growl, reaching out a hand to touch the sleek, golden flesh.

He cocks his head, stretching out the kinks. “What if someone walked in?” he asks blandly, then laughs when I attack him. “Thought that would do it,” he mumbles huskily, pressed up against my side as we wrestle.

“I want to fuck you in this seedy, road trip motel room,” I admit, bending my head to nip his erect nipple and delighting in the masculine moan that splits his lips.

“Suck my dick first,” he commands in a thick tone. “You promised.”

My lips curl. “I did, didn’t I?”

Sliding off the bed to kneel before his splayed thighs, I take a moment to appreciate the thick, veined head that bobs from the split in his boxers. Tucking my hands in either side of the shorts, I slide them down his narrow hips, making sure to accidentally brush across his pulsing erection.

He lets out a low curse, his thigh muscles clenching as I toss the underwear over my shoulder. “Suck me,” he rasps, raising his hips. “Fucking do it.”

“My, aren’t we authoritative today,” I say sarcastically, but I obey, taking his cock in hand and tracing the throbbing vein with my tongue.

“Shit, yeah!” his hands grip my head, pushing me further. “Deeep…” he groans, chest rising and falling. “Suck me… all the way in.”

I let him fuck my mouth, kneading his heavy sac with one palm as I listen to his groans and grunts rent the air. When I feel him approach the edge I pull back, licking the salty drops of semen from the slit of his cock as he opens his eyes and stares at me.

“Turn over,” I say harshly, unable to keep the lust from my voice as I kneel on the bed, my cock bobbing towards the ceiling.

He stares at my dick ravenously, then turns onto his stomach, head against the mattress as he cocks his hips in preparation for my invasion.

I grip his hips, sliding my cock between the cleft of his ass, our groans mixing. Reaching over for the bottle of lubricant we’d stored in the bedside table, I squirt a few drops onto my fingers. I tease the entrance to his ass with one finger, slowly working the lube in.

“Fuck, Max… I have to say… you have a nice ass,” I whisper, slipping one finger inside and brushing against the swelling of nerves. His anal muscles immediately clench around my knuckle.

“Shut up and fuck it,” he returns, and I can detect he’s seconds from coming. “Dammit, Gannon…”

He trails off into a loud moan of appreciation as I remove my finger and replace it with my cock. On the second thrust I hilt, and we both gasp at the intense sensation.

“Oh, yeah… I’m gonna fuck you so hard,” I grit out, yanking him closer as I drive in and out, one hand holding his shoulders down. “Ah… hell…”

“I’m coming, I can’t stop it… too fucking good… ah!” he jerks and begins to shudder as he spills his come across the bedspread.

The contractions of his orgasm fade into his ass, milking my cock as I thrust in to the balls. Quickly pulling out, I come next to him, crying out and shuddering as I pump every drop from my dick.

He turns onto his back, still gasping for breath as we lie there, staring at the ceiling. “Fuck.”

“That says it,” I answer, wiping the sweat from my brow. “So, are you going to go get something to eat, or do I have to screw you into submission?”

“You are such a cocksucker,” he snorts, but there’s affection in his tone. “And I would know.”

“Good point,” I concede, yawning as I shove a pillow under my head. “On the other hand… I think I might just pass out for a few hours.”

“No pillow talk?” he grunts in amusement, shoving me over so he has more room. “I feel so cheap.”

“I’ll leave a tip on the table,” I murmur before allowing myself to fall asleep, completely sated and comfortable in his presence.


<center>TBC...</center>

[Applebylicious]

My last update on this one before I leave for a week. I'll see you all next friday! Much love!

<center>Part 2</center>


(Max POV)


“So what’s crawled up your butt?”

I glance over in surprise at Michael’s grunt. “What do you mean?” I ask, stretching out in the booth as an old Journey ballad plays over the speakers of the tiny café.

“You seem… moody,” Michael decides, fiddling with the packets of sugar on the table. “Don’t tell me you’re missing Liz, Max. We’ve only been gone two days. You can’t be that pussy-whipped.”

“Of course I miss her,” I respond, overlooking the rest of his comment. “And I’m not moody.”

“Whatever you say,” Michael concedes, becoming distracted by a hockey game on the television mounted behind me.

My eyes drift across the café to where Nick and Kyle are engrossed in a game of pool. Unable to stop myself, I drink in the sight of his tall, muscular form… the golden blonde locks that fall into his eyes every few minutes.

He’s in serious need of a haircut. He’s constantly tossing his head back or raking his hair back from his forehead. But the sight of those blonde curls falling across electric blue eyes makes something inside of me clench.

He laughs at something Kyle says, gleaming white teeth set in tawny flesh. He raises an arm to scratch at some unknown point on his neck, and through the giant rip in his sleeve I glimpse the soft, golden hair under his arm.

For some reason, seeing that hair reminds me of seeing him naked. Maybe it’s the intimacy of the location, the fact that it’s a place usually hidden. Or maybe it’s simply because I spend so much of my time thinking of him naked. It’s thoughts like those that have me brooding.

I don’t consider myself gay. I’ve never been attracted to another man, and I never got off thinking about being with one.

And then there was Nick. I can’t deny that there has always been… something between us. Some kind of spark. Months ago I would have said it was simply friendship, that we connected so well because we had so much in common.

But deep down, I knew it was more than that. As much as I love Liz, with my entire heart and soul, I know that a part of me belongs to him. Even before he took me.

But it doesn’t make me gay. Not if the only lust you feel is for that person alone. I don’t feel the insane need to rip Michael’s clothes off and bury myself inside him. Kyle and Alex don’t invoke the longing urge to offer myself, body and soul to them.

Only him. And Liz. And that’s where it gets fuzzy. They both mean so much to me, and I know Liz isn’t hurt by the feelings I have for Nick. I also know she loves him, and it doesn’t bother me. What bothers me, is wondering where Nick’s feelings come in.

I’ve heard him tell Liz he loves her so many times, it’s second nature to him. True, they’ve been friends longer than Nick and I, and he loved her in that aspect before they ever became lovers.

He’s never said it to me. At least, not unless I say it first. And I can’t deny that this is what has me acting moody. It isn’t because I miss Liz, although I do. It’s because of the gorgeous man who I love.

The one who is afraid to love me back. He thinks I don’t notice the way he shies away from me in public… the way he goes out of his way to treat me as a friend. I understand his need to put up a front, because a part of me feels the same way.

I shouldn’t be having these feelings for him. Right? I’ve always been told it’s wrong… but how can something so wrong make me feel so right?

“Where did you go?”

I look up, surprised to see him grinning down at me. A quick glance around shows Michael has taken his spot at the pool table, leaving just Nick and I in the dimly lit booth.

I force a smile, not wanting him to pick up on my mood. “Just thinking. Did you win?”

“Creamed his ass,” he grunts arrogantly, nudging me over to flop into the booth next to me. “Kyle’s had one too many beers… he’s seeing double cues.”

I laugh, leaning back and tapping the table to the beat of the music overhead. “Where the hell is Al?”

“Calling Isabel on the pay phone outside,” he answers, shifting closer. I’m slightly surprised as I feel his thigh bump into mine. He never gets this close to me if someone could see. I guess the fact that it’s so dark makes it safer.

I quirk a brow at him, not moving away as he cocks his head towards me. Anyone looking would think we were simply having a private discussion, but the hand now trailing up my thigh makes it much more than that.

His voice deepens, turning husky with the effects of alcohol and the effort not to be heard. “You know what you should be thinking about?” he murmurs, his soft breath brushing against my cheek.

“What?” I mumble, my own voice gruff with desire as I meet his heavy-lidded gaze.

“How hard I’m going to fuck you tonight,” he growls, boldly squeezing my rapidly growing cock underneath the table. “I have a half a mind to do it right now. Just throw you up on this table and shove my hot dick so far up your ass you’ll scream for me to stop.”

“Not likely,” I manage, clearing my throat so that I can speak without my voice cracking. “Thanks for the imagery, though.”

“Fuck imagery,” he answers succinctly. “I’m horny as hell. Let’s ditch this joint and head back to the motel.”

“Hey guys,” Alex calls as he walks up and sits in the opposite side of the booth. I quickly pull away from Nick, but his hand remains on my cock. I wait for him to make an excuse as to why we’re so close together, but he simply smiles.

“How’s Iz?” he asks, not a trace of the husky passion remaining in his tone. But his hand slowly caresses me where no one can see. I swallow, picking up my beer and taking a few long sips.

“She’s good,” Alex says, completely oblivious. He grins widely. “She told me to tell you she misses you, of course.”

“Don’t they all,” he sighs assuredly, making Alex and I groan.

“It’s disgusting the way they act around you,” I roll my eyes. “And I mean females in general.”

“Like they don’t do it to you?” he laughs. “We can’t help being sexy.”

“Well, be sexy all you want… but do it away from my girlfriend,” Alex threatens teasingly. “I have enough to overcome without having to deal with the enigma that is Nick Gannon.”

“Enigma,” Nick taps his chin thoughtfully. “I like that.”

“You owe me thirty bucks,” Michael’s loud voice proceeds him by mere seconds. “Cough it up, Valenti.”

“You cheated!” Kyle slurs, almost tripping across a chair as they walk up to our booth. He turns and steadies the chair, inclining his head. “Sorry, ma’am,” he mumbles apologetically. Alex snickers at his best friend while Nick and I roll our eyes.

“Dude, you’re gone,” Alex shakes his head, yanking on Kyle’s sleeve and pulling him into the booth. “How many have you had?”

Kyle, who just turned twenty-one before this little trip, shakes his head, trying to count on his fingers and obviously coming up short. “What comes after four?” he asks in a panic.

“Thirty,” Michael breaks in, pulling up a chair and straddling it backwards. “As in how much money you owe me, you drunken loser.”

“Am I drunk?” Kyle wonders. “I thought I was going deaf and blind.”

“Michael, you can’t take his money,” I say appeasingly. “He’s too wasted to know what he was doing.”

He looks ready to argue, when Kyle lets out a loud snore and his head lolls against Alex’s shoulder. “Oh fine. God, he better not snore like that all night or I’m coming to sleep with you and Nick.”

I barely hold back a horrified snort as Nick grips my thigh roughly. “Nick snores, too,” I improvise. “Really bad. It kept me awake all night last night.”

Nick snorts, reminding me that it wasn’t his snoring that kept me up. But I don’t dare look at him, instead keep my gaze focused casually on my best friend.

Michael sighs. “This place is dead. I say we head out. Alex, you haven’t been drinking… you can play DD. Here.” He tosses Alex Kyle’s keys and we all stand to head out.

As the others climb inside Kyle’s SUV, Nick hangs back and catches my arm as I walk out. Before I can say anything, he pulls me into the shadow of the building and presses me up against the wall.

I can feel the hardness of him pressing against my lower abdomen, and all the blood rushes south as his lips cover mine. We kiss fiercely, grinding against each other for a sweet minute before he pulls back, breathing heavily.

“Later,” he promises me, then walks off stiffly.

The entire ride home I can feel his burning gaze on me from the backseat. I pretend not to notice, tapping my thigh to the beat of Aerosmith as Alex drives. Kyle snores away in the backseat and Michael complains about him drooling on his shirt.

When we reach the motel, Michael and I heft an unconscious Kyle out of the backseat and carry him inside, tossing him on one of the beds. He bounces twice, but never awakens.

“He’s gonna be hurting in the morning,” Michael chuckles evilly. “I can’t wait.”

“You’re such a sadist,” Alex shakes his head. Then he grins. “He’s gonna scream like a baby.”

“Well, I’m going to bed,” Nick states, trying to draw me with his gaze. I refuse to look, determined not to let him know the power he has over me. I’m a freaking man’s man. I’m not going to be led around by my dick… especially by another dick.

But moments later, I find myself heading down the hall towards our room. I no sooner open the door then I’m pulled inside and thrown up against the wall.

“Pants,” he breathes against my face, the sweet scent of beer on his breath, intoxicating me. “Off, now.”

“Yes sir,” I answer wryly, struggling to hear myself over the beating of my heart. I reach down to my zipper and have it halfway done before his hands cover mine.

“Let me,” he says in a husky voice, and I look up to see him staring at the thick ridge of my erection. “Oh yeah, you’re ready aren’t you?”

“It’s kind of hard to hide,” I say, swallowing as he reaches inside and brushes the head of my cock. My head falls against the wall with a soft thud. “Christ, Nick.”

“You’re hard as hell, Max,” he replies, looking up from my cock to meet my gaze. “You must really want my cock in you.”

His smug tone sends a small dose of anger through me. “I don’t need your cock,” I answer sharply, reaching out my hands to shove at his shoulders. “I can take care of it myself, don’t fucking forget that.”

He doesn’t act surprised by my sudden outburst, just continues to stare at me through those damn blue eyes of his. “Oh yeah?” he says finally, stepping closer even as I push him away. My fingers clench around his shoulders as his nose brushes mine. “By what? Jacking off in the bathroom? Would you be thinking of Liz, Max? Maybe thinking of sliding your dick home in her soft pussy. Is that what you would do?”

I shudder despite myself, closing my eyes against his silky words. But it isn’t Liz’s pussy I want, not at this minute. And he knows it, damn him. “If that’s what it takes,” I answer calmly, opening my eyes to stare back at him.

“Liar,” he says quietly. “You aren’t thinking of anything but me, ramming myself inside of you. Don’t deny it. You belong to me, too, Max. Not just Liz. And don’t you fucking forget that.”

With those heated words, he grabs my head and yanks me forward, his tongue spreading my lips wide open as we both moan. We melt against each other, the kiss gentling and teeth nibbling instead of biting.

Together we remove our clothes until we’re both embracing, fully naked. Our cocks brush against each other, sending pleasurable tingles through my body every time I feel him against me.

He bends his head and kisses my nipple, crouching on muscular haunches as his blonde head trails down my body. I hold my breath, burying my fingers in his hair as his mouth finally closes over the thick head of my cock.

“Oh, shit,” I gasp, thrusting deeply as he swallows me, staring down and watching as I disappear in his mouth. “Oh, fuck yeah!”

One hand wraps around my thigh, the other tugs and molds my sac as I continue to pump into his mouth. He pulls back, teasing the slit with his tongue before sucking on the tip again.

“I’m gonna come,” I warn him a minute later, pulling on his head. “Stop. I’m gonna come.”

He pulls away, wiping his mouth and staring up at me. “Get on the bed,” he says in a dark voice. “On your stomach.”

I think about arguing, but to be honest I just want to know what he’s going to do. So I walk over and lay down, cradling my head in my arms as I stare at the ticking alarm clock on the bedside table.

I feel the weight of him press the bed down as he kneels next to me. My eyes close as he begins to kiss my shoulder blades, and I stretch at the pleasant feeling. “Mm… that’s good.”

His lips trail along my back, his tongue occasionally laving across a sensitive area that makes me groan. His hands grip my hips, not allowing me to grind my dick into the bed as I would have done already. The need to come is so intense that I want to scream. Which is exactly what he wants.

When he parts my cheeks I stiffen, expecting to feel the silky glide of lube across my opening. Instead, I feel a rough lick that has me gasping and groaning as my hips buck up.

He pulls back, his lips coming to my ear. “Shh, baby… just relax,” he whispers, and the tenderness added with the use of an endearment has my chest swelling.

He’s never called me baby. Liz is baby. I’m just Max, or Evans. Sometimes I’m sweetcheeks, although that was just the one time when we were all drunk off our asses and playing around.

“What are you doing?” I ask, hoping he doesn’t catch the fact that my voice is unsteady. Right now I feel like spun glass, as if the slightest touch could shatter me.

“Pleasuring you,” he answers softly. “I want to. Just… let me.”

As if I was going to say no. But I nod anyway, giving my consent as he pulls back, his hands once again parting me. This time, I’m not surprised by the feel of his tongue against my ass, but I still shiver.

“Oh, God…” I groan, biting my lip as he kisses my hole again. “That feels so good… Nick…”

I’ve always thought something like this would be disgusting. But with him… it’s sexy, and romantic. God, I’m so in love with him that it hurts. Part of me wants to burst out with the words right now, but part of me yearns to hear him say them first.

Just before I lose control, he pulls away and through heavy lids I see him pop the lid from the lube, slicking himself and me as he positions the head of his cock at my entrance. “Are you ready?” he asks, pressing a kiss against the nape of my neck. “I don’t want to hurt you if you’re tense.”

I let out something between a laugh and a sigh. “I can’t say I’m relaxed… but I’m definitely ready.”

He stills for a minute, then laughs as he catches on to my statement, his hand coming down to squeeze my rock hard penis. “Then here I come.”

“Not yet, I hope,” I answer impishly, bracing myself for the first thrust that will undoubtably cause me pain. It’s always brief, but Nick’s cock is too large not to send a little burning through me.

But this time, instead of hilting as soon as possible, he simply slides in at a slow pace that kills me. I arch my hips into him, silently urging him along. Still he continues to stretch me… slipping inside me with no pain whatsoever.

I gasp as I suddenly feel him completely fill me, and reach behind to clasp his tight buttocks. “God.”

“You have the sweetest ass,” he says thickly, sliding out and driving back in languidly. “God, I love this ass.”

“Ah, shit!”

“You’re close,” he says, noting the flush on my cheeks and the pulsing of my cock that signals my approach. “Tell me… are you thinking about Liz?”

“What?” I ask, my mind in a blur of pleasure. “Am I thinking what about Liz?”

“Are you wishing it was her here with you right now?” he clarifies, accenting his statement with a deeper thrust.

“Kind of hard, with her equipment,” I joke affectionately. “Nick… I’m not thinking of anyone but you right now.”

As if hearing what he wanted, he lets out a low groan and begins to ram his cock inside me at a furious pace. Every thrust drives against the swelling inside me that brings intense pleasure, and I come within seconds, grinding my hips against him as I twist my head to reach his lips.

He follows soon after, bellowing his satisfaction as he collapses on top of me, still pumping me with shallow thrusts. “Oh, God… you feel so fucking good!”

He slides off of me, turning to his side and slinging an arm around me, pulling me up against his side as he turns out the light. Instead of sleeping on opposite sides of the bed, we drift off wrapped in each other’s arms.


<center>TBC...</center>

[Applebylicious]

Heyyy! Did you guys miss me? Well, I'm back with a new part. A few things to say before we go on...

Number one, my trip was fantastic, thanks to all who asked! It was very relaxing and was totally what I needed to get myself pysched and ready for the voting coming up. I don't know if any of you are aware, but this fic and Nick are both up for awards here at Fanatics, and yeah.... I'm nervous about it. I don't even think I'll be able to look at the results when I lose. Talk about being emotionally involved, lol.

Also, I've decided to turn this fic into an actual... fic. It was going to be a three parter, but I don't think this story can be told in three segments. There's something here, and I want to explore it fully. So I'm going to give a warning that this WILL be angsty and it WILL test some boundaries. I don't want to frighten anyone away. So just know that this will primarily be a Max/Nick fic, with two men coming to grips over feelings that neither feel they should be feeling.

Dreamers, don't worry... Max and Liz will still be very much together, but there's just something about Nick and Max. I can't ignore it when it's calling to me this way, and their relationship WILL be explored and it WILL be tested.

Also, keep in mind once again that this is an AU fic away from NSL and GTC. None of this has happened or will happen in that world. Consider everything after NSL to be up for grabs in the Menage world.

Er... I think that's pretty much it. Once again, I hope you guys like this, because I know I suck at angst. I'm really trying... but I don't know if it comes out the way I mean for it to. Maybe you guys can let me know...? And thanks to all of you who are brave enough to come out and admit you're reading this! I know it's not half as good as the other fics on this board, and I really appreciate the support.

Much love,

Linds



<center>Part 3</center>


(Nick POV)



God. What the hell have I gotten myself into?

This is what plays through my mind as the morning sunlight spills through the thin curtains, rousing me from a restless slumber.

Disjointed fragments of misty dreams linger in my brain as I glance around the room in confusion. My gaze comes to rest on the figure lying beside me, and recognition returns… along with realization as the memory of last night comes rushing back to me.

As I stare at him, the line of his arm slung across the pillow as he breathes lightly, the length of his leg exposed from where the sheet is pulled taut beneath his hip, a mixture of lust and terror consumes me.

He’s so fucking beautiful.

How is it possible for a man to be so fucking beautiful… and still possess an ounce of masculinity? But he has it in spades, from the way his ridiculously long lashes fan across angular cheekbones to the fact that he reaches down and scratches himself while snuffling and turning slightly away.

The sheet falls away, revealing the dip of his spine, the rise of his buttocks. With a swallow, I sit up, running a hand down my face as I fight back the urge to run my hand down that beckoning sleek flesh.

I’m terrified that I’m getting in too deep. After last night, things won’t be the same between us. We reached a new level in our connection, one that leaves me both longing and scares me to my very core.

The sound of a phone ringing causes me to jolt. Standing, I walk over to where my pants are tossed haphazardly on the floor, digging through the pockets until I find my cell.

“Yello.”

“Pink,” comes the giggling reply, and despite my dour thoughts, a smile splits my lips.

“Hello, gorgeous,” I purr into the phone, padding over to the window to lean against the frame. The cool air conditioner strikes my naked body, raising goosebumps across my flesh. “What’s going on?”

“Not much… can you hear me okay? This connection is terrible.”

Raising a hand to scratch my chin, I yawn lazily. “I can hear you crystal clear, babe. How’s New York?”

“It’s wonderful, Nick. Juilliard is amazing,” she sighs, and I can envision her lush lips curving into a satisfied smile, her blue eyes twinkling. “I’m so glad I came. You were right.”

“Of course I was, Tess,” I tease. “I’m always right, just like that time I suggested we should do it in a-”

“Uh huh,” she breaks in, laughing lightly. “I don’t even want to guess what you were going to say.”

“Damn, I miss you,” I say softly, realizing how true it is. “I can’t believe how much I miss you, Tessa.”

“Oh… well…” she sounds startled by my confession. “I miss you, too, Nick.” A long pause, then, “Is everything okay?”

I chuckle lightly, seeing as how she read me so well. “Yeah, everything’s great,” I hedge. “I was just wondering whether or not you’ve replaced me yet with any of those smooth talking city guys.”

She laughs at that. “As if you care,” she returns, although there’s nothing but affection in her tone. “I don’t believe for one second you’re sitting there pining over me.”

Although she’s right, I can’t deny that a part of me wishes I could be pining over her. Over something fucking normal. “How do you know?” I say suddenly, clutching the phone tightly. “We were good together, weren’t we?”

The laughter fades from her voice as she catches the change in my tone. When she finally speaks, her voice is soft and hesitant. “I’m not sure I know what you’re asking me.”

I curse lowly, shoving a hand through my rumpled hair as I begin to pace the tiny motel room. “What happened to us, Tess? I thought…” I trail off, my hand dropping as I lean limply against a secondhand chair. “I thought we were going to last forever,” I admit quietly.

“Nick,” she sighs, and I imagine her chewing on her lower lip in that adorable way that used to drive me crazy with lust. I close my eyes and picture her, but it doesn’t make me crazy. I only feel a shadow of fondness for her, a sort of gentle reminder of what used to be between us.

“Do you ever miss it?” I break in before she can continue. “Miss us, I mean. The way we used to be?” I add huskily, trying to force myself to remember how it felt when I thought I was in love with her. “God, it was so good, Tess.”

She giggles shakily. “Yes, it was amazing. And of course I think about it, Nick. You were… you know you were special,” she chides gently. “There’s no one else I’d rather have had as my first.”

“But not as your last,” I surmise with a sigh.

“Nick, you broke up with me,” she says in confusion. “I mean, it was mutual… but you initially ended it. Why are you asking all these questions now?”

“I don’t know,” I mumble, raking back my shaggy hair again. “Fuck, I don’t know.”

“I love you, Nick. And I know you love me,” she states confidently. “But we weren’t in love. It took me awhile to figure it out… but in the end, that’s all that matters.”

I smile wistfully. “Would it be bad for me to wish things had turned out differently?” I question tenderly.

“Of course not,” she says lightly. “I’d be offended if you didn’t.”

We both laugh at that. “God, Tess… you are incredible.”

“I know. So, are you going to tell me what’s got you all riled up?”

For a moment I debate on actually telling her the truth. That I fear I may be falling head over heels for a guy, and that there doesn’t seem to be anyway to stop it from happening.

Ever since Liz, Max and I started our unique relationship, I’ve been able to enjoy being with them while still holding a part of myself aloof.

With Liz, it’s easier. I’ve always been a little in love with her, it’s hard not to be. She’s everything I ever wanted in a girl – soft, intelligent, gorgeous and with a kickass humor that challenges my own. But somehow I always knew she wasn’t for me.

She has one of the biggest hearts I’ve ever seen, and with Max it becomes even bigger. She loves him so much that it was impossible to resent it when they got together. The way they look at each other… it gives you chills to see that kind of love.

It might sound like I’m trying to justify being the best friend because I don’t want to face the fact that I wasn’t good enough for her, but that isn’t it. There’s no one I’d rather see her with than Max.

I always thought there had to be someone like that for me, and for awhile I thought that person was Tess Harding. I won’t deny that I was in love with her at the beginning. I tried so hard to be, after all. Which is inevitablely where I went wrong.

You shouldn’t have to work to be in love with someone. It took me awhile to realize this, but when I did I couldn’t keep pretending. Not that it didn’t hurt to lose that part of myself. After all, if Tess wasn’t the woman for me… then who was? Where was she? When would I find her?

It never once occurred to me that she might not be a she. But a he. A them.

The ridiculousness of my situation rears its ugly head once again, and I quickly decide against telling Tess. After all, she’d probably think I was psycho.

Yes, I’m having an affair with two of our best friends. Oh, did I mention one of them was a guy? Yeah, and get this… I think I’m falling in love with him. With both of them, actually. So, how was ballet practice?

Jesus.

“I’m just tired,” I mumble, desperately trying to think about anything other than the perplexing feelings bubbling inside me. “Late night with the boys and all. We went to Bubba’s BBQ Hut and played pool. Kyle drank too much and passed out… same old.”

“Oh no,” she laughs. “I feel sorry for him when Serena hears.”

“I don’t,” I grin wickedly.

“Well, I just wanted to call and say hi,” she says as I hear a horn honk somewhere in the distance. “I’ll talk to you soon, okay? And Nick… I love you. I’m here if you want to talk. Remember that, okay?”

“Yeah,” I answer noncommittedly. “I love you, too babe. Talk to you later.”

Hanging up with a sigh, I turn around and find him staring at me, propped up on one hand as his sleep-heavy eyes study me.

His gaze drifts briefly over my nakedness, and I can’t fight the response my body has at the flash of appreciation in his eyes. My groin tightens even as he looks up and meets my eyes again.

“You’re up early,” he states quietly, his voice rough with sleep. “Was that Tess?”

His tone is casual, but I sense… something lurking in the question. Something that causes me to pause before answering.

“Yeah, she was just calling to say hi,” I shrug, turning slightly away to grab a pair of boxers from the open duffle bag on the couch. Pulling the shorts up my hips with a snap, I miss the flare of his nostrils. “She’s having a blast upstate.”

“Right.”

I glance at him and find him watching me with unreadable eyes. The second our eyes meet, he looks away and flops onto his back. “What’s that supposed to mean?” I ask a little more sharply than I had intended.

“What’s what supposed to mean?” he asks, fluffing a pillow under his head as he stretches lazily.

Unexplainable irritation fills me at his vague responses. “You know what I mean,” I run another hand through my hair. When he simply cocks a brow at me, I realize how defensive I’m acting.

I actually feel guilty at the thought that he may have heard me flirting with Tess over the phone. Like I’d betrayed him somehow. The thought sends a wave of wild confusion through me.

“I’m going to take a shower,” he announces when I don’t answer after a moment. He climbs out of the bed, all dusky and golden and… goddamnit, fucking beautiful.

He rakes a hand through his short tousled hair and reaches down to scratch at the small Celtic knot tattoo on his left shoulder as he heads for the bathroom, my gaze trailing after him.

The sound of running water drifts through the door minutes later, and my fists clench as I imagine him in there, washing himself… running his hands down that body I’ve come to appreciate in ways that stagger me.

I stalk over to the TV, turning it on and flipping the stations rapidly, trying to think of anything but the man in the other room. A rerun of Baywatch catches my attention and I watch as Pamela Anderson and Yasmine Bleeth run up and down the beach, a sight that occupied many a fantasy of mine in my younger years.

Ten seconds pass before my eyes drift back towards the shut door. With a curse I turn off the television and begin to pace.

What the hell has he done to me?

Sure, I enjoyed fucking him the first time we all were together. It was a pleasant surprise, but not something I expected to… evolve. I was there because I was attracted to Liz.

I’m not naïve enough to think that I wouldn’t have inevitablely grown attracted to Max as well, even if we hadn’t taken the plunge that first night. I’m a very sexual person, and I realize that it’s nearly impossible to share an experience that intimate with someone and not eventually become attracted to them and act on that attraction. It’s common fact.

But an attraction to Max and feeling for him are two totally different things. That’s where it gets sticky. That’s where the lines get crossed. I’m not gay, nor do I want to be gay.

Some might say I already am. But as I said before, there’s a difference between lusting after someone… and feeling for them. That’s where you cross the sexual lines.

And I have the horrible feeling that last night, we not only crossed some lines, but we erased them completely.

Does this stop me from going inside?

As I stare at the outline of him behind the shower curtain I swallow against the turmoil of feelings inside me, finally pushing them all aside as I stride towards the shower stall.

He doesn’t act surprised to find me pressed against him, or by the fact that I’m hard as rock and jutting against the swell of his buttocks in a way that’s impossible to hide.

He simply laughs lowly, turning his head to catch the stream of water jetting from the showerhead. “What took you so long?” he murmurs, the deep rumble of his voice acting like a caress down my heated body.

“Shut up,” I return in frustration, grabbing his hips and yanking him back. I struggle not to moan as his ass brushes my cock.

Steam curls around me and I bite my lip as I prepare to dive in, when he suddenly pulls away from me. I find myself up against the tile before I can blink, our noses pressed against each other.

He laughs at the shock in my eyes. His hand closes over my cock and begins a gentle stroking motion that draws a strangled moan from my throat even as I fight to remain in control of the situation.

“Stop,” he demands in a rough voice, noting my attempt to remain detached. “Goddamnit, why can’t you admit you like it, huh?”

“What are you talking about?” I manage through gritted teeth. I try to move away, but his grip on my dick tightens. “What the fuck are you doing?” I demand.

A determined look clouds his gaze, his eyes dropping to my cock as his fingers squeeze and slide over the slick stalk. “You,” he growls, looking back up at me. “And it’s about damn time.”

Before I can even comprehend his words, he turns me around, the muscles in his arms bulging as he pins me against the wall. My eyes widen as I feel the brush of his cock against my ass.

“Oh, hell…” I say slowly, my heart pounding fiercely as I glance back at him. He stares back at me with a tense jaw. “Max… no.”

“No?” he asks, and rubs himself against my entrance. Pleasure rips through me and I close my eyes even as I struggle against him. “Why not?”

“It isn’t supposed to be like this,” I say, my ears ringing as I’m torn in two different directions – the part of me that aches to be with him… to be a part of him. And the part of me that wants to run far away from him and everything he makes me feel.

Terror wins. “Let me fucking go,” I buck him, nearly managing to throw him off. Damn him for being as strong as he looks. “I’m warning you, man.”

“It isn’t supposed to be like what?” he demands, ignoring my attempts to throw him off. “Answer me!”

“I don’t let guys fuck me! I’m not a faggot, okay?” I finally explode, chest heaving.

Silence ensues, so quiet that even the sound of the running water seems to disappear. His hands fall away and he steps back, allowing me to turn.

“I’m your good little bitch, is that it?” he says in a low voice. “You want a piece of ass, I’m there to bend over and give it to you? Providing, of course, that my girlfriend isn’t there.” His voice is angry and frustrated… and not a little hurt.

“Well, I’m no one’s bitch, do you fucking understand me?” he growls, ramming his hips against me so that I can feel the evidence of his desire. And God help me, it turns me on. He laughs suddenly, but there’s nothing amused about the sound. “Fuck you, Gannon. You spineless sack of shit.”

My own anger rises, along with a small dose of panic. “Fuck me? The only one getting fucked around here Max, is you.”

I don’t even duck the punch he throws, my head snapping back as his fist connects solidly with my chin. I reach out to grab anything to keep me from slipping on the wet floor, and end up bringing down a stack of towels onto my head.

“Get back up, Nick. I know you aren’t a one-hit wonder,” he says in a dark tone, and I look up to see him staring down at me with narrowed eyes. “Come on, get the hell up.”

I come to my feet and throw myself at him, and we go tumbling across the bathroom floor, trading blows and insults.

Max and I are pretty evenly matched, but he has the advantage of anger in this situation, and I soon find myself pinned beneath him as he raises his fist for another blow.

“Uncle,” I manage to say between the lip that has split and a bruised throat. “I give.”

He stares down at me then makes a disgusted sound and stands up. “You’re not worth it,” he says softly, but I know it for the lie it is. “You do whatever the fuck it is you have to do, Nick. But you stay the hell away from me.”

With those final words, he leaves the room as I sprawl across the floor in a state of surreal shock as I understand the reason behind his intense reaction, the pain in those tawny eyes.

Max Evans is in love with me.

<center>***</center>

[Applebylicious]

Sorry this took so long. Hope it satisfies!

Hugs,

Linds


<center>Part 4</center>


(Max POV)



I pretend not to notice when he walks into the café, a pair of sunglasses on the bridge of his nose to hide the black eye I know is underneath. His lip is raw from a lucky hit, but it only suceeds in making him look dangerously sexy.

I haven’t seen him since I stalked out of our motel room earlier this morning like a child throwing a temper tantrum. Humilation washes over me at the memory, edged with a razor-sharp anger that tears at my heart.

He glances around, his gaze alighting on me in the corner booth. He stills, then sets his shoulders, walking over to me. I lift a cup of coffee to my lips, taking a measured sip as I fake an indifference I don’t feel.

He stops beside me and doesn’t say anything for a long moment. I look up, raising a brow from beneath the battered ballcap that fits snugly across my head.

“Michael said you were here,” he finally speaks, taking off the glasses and squirming a bit as I continue to stare at him without reply. His lips tighten and he tries again. “We’re packing up and heading out in an hour.”

I set the cup down. “Great. Thanks for letting me know.” I look away, effectively dismissing him while tapping my fingers to a Hootie and the Blowfish song playing softly over the radio.

“Max.”

He says my name gently yet roughly at the same time, and it drags my attention back to his face. His expression is hard to read, his jaw tense.

“I don’t feel like dealing with you right now, okay?,” I say shortly, and the quick flinch in his eyes makes me feel like a jackass.

Just then, the guys come barrelling in.

“Max, it’s time to go buddy,” Michael chortles, ambling up to the booth and completely oblivious to the tension in the air. “Unless you don’t want to meet up with Liz in California.”

I drag my gaze away from Nick’s and nod. “Yeah, I’m ready to get outta this podunk town.”

“Max, you love podunk towns,” Kyle points out.

“Then maybe I’m just ready to see Liz,” I return, and it’s true. God, I need her right now… I need to just wrap myself up in her love and lose myself. Maybe then I can lose the feelings that plague me.

Maybe then I can convince myself that I don’t need him.

“I’ll help you pack,” Nick speaks up, his voice hard and determined.

“Already packed,” I drawl. “My shit’s in Kyle’s car. Maybe if you opened your eyes and noticed something besides yourself, you’d have seen that.”

“Ooh, good one,” Michael chuckles. “He’s right, Nick. You’re so self-obsessed.”

“So says the guy who spends two hours grooming himself every morning,” Nick snaps, his cheeks flushed. “And I’m not self-obsessed, dammit.”

“No, just self-centered,” I smile thinly. “I gotta piss.”

“What the hell is wrong with him?” I hear Kyle ask as I stalk off, shoving open the door to the men’s room. But I couldn’t give a flying fuck anymore.

I rub a hand down my face, staring at myself in the mirror. Fire streaks from my eyes, and I’m surprised at the anger that threatens to spill from me at any second.

I’ve never been the type to lose my cool. I’m always the calm one, the peacemaker. But right now, there’s nothing peaceful about my mood. I feel like a volcano ready to blow.

My hands clench on the grimy sink counter, and I close my eyes, hanging my head down. After a moment, I raise my head and stare grimly at my reflection.

“Fucking hell,” I snarl in disgust, rubbing a hand down my face. “Enough of this shit.”

I do my business and walk out, rejoining the gang as they head out of the café. On the short walk back to the motel, I ignore the pair of eyes burning into my back, pretending to listen intently to whatever Michael’s saying.

“I’m going to shower and then we can get the hell outta here,” I hear him say, and I nod distractedly. We all part ways into the separate bedrooms, and I brace myself as the door clicks softly behind me.

For a long moment, silence reigns. Then I feel his hand brush against my lower back, drawing forth an uncomfortable shudder as he brings his arms around me, resting his head against my shoulder.

“What do you want, Nick?” I ask, suddenly weary. I step away from him, my back stiff as I fight my body’s reaction to him. “I thought I told you to leave me the hell alone.”

“Don’t be an asshole, Max,” he returns gruffly, and I turn around to face him, letting out a dry chuckle.

“An asshole?” I echo sarcastically. “I thought I was a bitch.”

“I never said that,” he says quietly, dropping the hand that had reached out to draw me back.

“Oh that’s right, you called me a faggot,” I answer roughly. “So now that you’ve reminded me, why don’t you go next door and make someone else’s life miserable.”

I know my words are harsh, but at that moment they’re all too true. He’s made me miserable, from the moment he crawled inside me and awakened some part of me I hadn’t known existed. My misery is knowing I’ll never be what he wants… and the sooner I reconcile myself to the fact, the better off I’ll be.

“Damn it, I didn’t mean that!” he snaps, blue eyes flashing as he takes a step forward. He shoves a wayward curl from his brow angrily, his jaw jutting out defiantly. “You know I didn’t mean it like that.”

“I don’t know what the hell you mean!” I shout back, unable to keep my frustration out of my voice. “No one ever knows, Nick. You’re a fucking contradiction.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” he demands, folding his arms challengingly.

I shake my head, chuckling darkly. “It isn’t worth explaining. Just… this isn’t working, okay? Let’s leave it at that.”

“What’s not working?” he asks, and there’s an edge of panic in his tone that despite my convictions, sends a jolt of hope through me. “You think you can brush me off that easy?”

“Pretty much,” I grunt. “What’s the matter, Gannon? Never been dumped before?”

“Fuck you, Max!” he whispers raggedly. “Damn you, you think you can decide for both of us? You know goddamn well I could change your mind. Don’t force me to prove it.”

“Buddy, I’d love to see you try,” I drawl carelessly, and turn my back on him to prove exactly how non-threatening I find him to be. He’ll never know what it cost me.

I’m not surprised when he grabs me and spins me around, catching my lips in a rough kiss. There’s nothing tender about the meeting, it’s simply a way to vent the anger and frustration that fills us both.

But after a minute we melt against each other on a low groan, the kiss shifting towards passion and deepening. His hands slide down and grip my buttocks as mine settle on his, pulling our hips towards each other as we grind our thickening groins against one another.

He slips a hand in between our bodies to grasp my cock, but I shove him away and pull down his pants, filling my hands with his long erection. His eyes widen, his throat moving spasmodically in anticipation and surprise.

“What’s the matter, Nick?” I ask, my golden eyes faintly mocking as I stroke the length of his cock. “You thought I’d be your good little bitch today, is that it?”

I get on my knees, his straining dick level with my eyes, and study the pulsing member as his knees lock. I glance back up and see him staring at me with need… and trepidation.

Nick’s always been the aggressor in our sexual encounters, and I’ve never had a problem with it before, knowing how much he needed to be in control. But I’ve come to realize that by being the passive member in our relationship, I’ve only done myself a disservice. One that I plan on correcting right now.

“Max… wait,” he says huskily, burying his hand in my hair and tugging lightly as I move my mouth closer to the thick plum-shaped tip. “I… I don’t know if I can.”

The words seem to be strangled from him, and they bring a burning pain to my chest as I meet his gaze and see his frustration towards himself. His cheeks are flushed dark with arousal and he’s breathing heavily, but his forehead is beaded with nervous sweat.

I hold his gaze, trying to convey security to him as he stares back wildly. “It’s okay,” I say hoarsely. “I’m going to suck you off now.”

His cock twitches eagerly at my words, but the anxious look in his eyes remains. Instead of giving him a chance to reply, I lean forward and brush a light kiss across the head of his erection.

He groans, arching his hips towards me even as his hands tighten their grip. “Oh, shit…” he bites his lip, his lids falling half-closed as his gaze shifts to the point where my lips meet his flesh.

This time I take take just the tip inside my mouth, applying a gentle pressure as he gasps above me. I fight the smile that wants to work its way across my face as I taste the salty essence forming.

“Harder,” he manages to whisper, ramming against me as I slide further down his dick. “Fuck, Max!”

I give up trying to hold his hips and simply allow him to fuck my mouth, every ragged moan helping to bring me closer as his hands caress my hair and shoulders. He whispers incoherently, but the sounds are filled with wonder.

I feel the moment he’s close to the point of no return, and I pull back, staring at the angry looking cock as I come to my feet. I quickly strip off my own pants, careful of working the zipper over the thick bulge as I continue to eye him hungrily.

“Wha… why are you stopping?” he groans, then his eyes widen as he sees me grab the familiar tube. “Max… no…”

“Please,” I whisper shamelessly. “Give me a chance, Nick. I can make you love it.”

And love me. From the look in his eyes, I know he heard my inner addendum. He continues to stare at me, veiled disgust in his eyes and I feel my previous anger and hurt returning.

“It doesn’t hurt that bad, if that’s what you’re afraid of,” I say gruffly.

“That’s not… I’m not…” he makes a sound and looks away, chest heaving.

“You’re not what?” I demand, reaching out and grabbing his cock and brining his attention back to me. “Not gay? Maybe not. Not turned on by another man? Sorry to break it to you, pal, but that you are.”

I squeeze his reaction to prove my point, and a drop of semen appears, glistening in the lamp light. “So what is it you’re not?”

“I don’t know if I’m ready,” he says softly, contrasting the heat in my tone.

The quiet honesty surprises me, and we both look away at the uncharacteristic admission. For a long moment, we stand frozen as the implications become clear.

Then I step closer until my breath is at his ear, my hand working his cock. “Do you trust me?” I whisper, repeating the words from so long ago. “Let it go, Nick. For just a few minutes, forget everything else and just… feel…”

As I’m speaking, I slide a hand down his back, and stroke the muscled cleft. His breathing picks up and he stiffens, but he doesn’t pull away. Swallowing against my rapidly beating heart, I reach a little lower until I reach the puckered opening.

Before I can slip even the tip of my finger inside, he clenches his cheeks together, jerking slightly. I prepare myself for disappointment and other emotions I’d be better off not thinking of, but the words that come out of his mouth surprise me.

“Lube first,” he says huskily, and leans forward to kiss my lips. “If you’re going in there, it better be smooth sailing, Evans. You’ve got a big piece of meat.”

I can only stare at him in shock when he pulls away and finishes undressing, pulling the only remaining article of clothing over his head. Once he stands nude before me, golden and gleaming, he takes a deep breath, then smiles shakily.

“Are you just going to stand there staring? Jesus.”

I don’t know whether to laugh or cry as I see him standing there, head held high and a challenging look in his cobalt eyes. He looks like he’s ready for battle, a battle to retain control.

I realize his method for what it is. His offering himself to me instead of letting me seduce him is a way for him to somehow remain in control of the situation. It doesn’t please me, but at the moment I don’t feel like arguing.

Not when one of my darkest fantasies is about to come true. “Are you sure,” I state it as a question, popping open the cap of the lube.

His eyes flick to the tube, then down to my straining cock and his complexion pales slightly. Then his jaw tightens and he nods once, looking slightly away. “Yes,” he says. “Just… take it slow, okay?”

I reach out and draw him closer, pressing our lips together. “I won’t hurt you,” I whisper, stroking him between the legs.

“I know,” he answers in a voice ragged with arousal. I smile and coat my fingers in the slippery lubricant as I pull apart his cheeks to apply it to his rear entrance.

He turns around, bracing his hands against the wall and dropping his head forward with a sigh as I slip a finger up him. His anus clenches around me, but then relaxes as I begin a slow rhythm.

Seconds later, he’s moaning softly as I work another finger up to stretch him. “Damn you, that feels good,” he gasps as I find the small swelling inside and stroke it, feeling the bundle of nerves grow erect. “Shit!”

“It’s going to feel a whole lot better,” I promise huskily, and pull my fingers out to grasp my cock, positioning myself at his entrance. “Take a deep breath.”

I lift one of his legs slightly for better access, then proceed to have the hottest standing fuck of my life. He jerks and groans loudly as the first few inches slide inside him with a little work.

“Holy shit, Max… you’re going to tear me apart!” he grits out, but he only pushes further against me. “Oh God, right there… yeaahh…”

“How does that feel?” I ask silkily, ignoring the sweat dripping into my eyes as I drive a little further inside. “Do you want me to stop?”

“Yes. No. I don’t know,” he laughs raggedly. “I never thought I’d be in this position.”

“Is there another position you’d prefer?” I grin, and despite the tension we both chuckle.

“No, this is fine,” he assures me, arching back a little. “Jesus, that burns a little.”

“Just the first time,” I promise, then groan as I finally hilt inside him. “I’m in.”

“Well, fuck.”

“You and your dirty mouth,” I growl, but I have no problem carrying out his request. I begin to thrust inside his tight passage, gritting my teeth as his anal muscles grip me and threaten to drive me over.

“Ah yeah, Max…” he says in a dreamy voice. “God, you’re killing me…”

“Then die with me,” I manage right before I erupt, unable to hold back as his ass clenches down on me with the start of his orgasm. I pull out and pump myself against his back as we both come, our groans tangling in the room.

[Applebylicious]

Hey Ho's! You guys miss me? I gotta say... I have this fic pretty much written through... along with 3 Kings, so expect a non-stop slash session to be heating up in Lindsay Land during the next few days. In the meantime... enjoy...


<center>Part 5</center>


(Nick POV)



“Are you okay?”

I open my eyes at his concerned murmur, turning my head to meet his gaze. I lift my lips wryly and reach over to pat his stomach. “I think I’ll live,” I answer, exaggerating a wince as I stand up. He shakes his head at me, grinning.

“Are you always so…” he trails off, propping his head on his fist as he turns on his side. The sight of him laying there, wonderfully nude and tousled almost has me ready to jump him. Again.

Instead I turn away and tug my pants up my hips, avoiding his searching gaze. “So…?” I drawl, glancing over my shoulder at him.

He sighs, sitting up and scratching his chest. “Do you ever take anything seriously?” he asks, and although he grins back at me, I catch the real question in his tone.

I pause in the act of pulling my shirt over my head. My heart beats in my ears, and then I kneel on the ground next to him. “There are some things,” I answer quietly, and to both of our surprise, I bend my head to lightly touch his lips.

“Hey guys, are you ready?”

We pull away from each other so quickly that I almost trip over the strewn clothes on the floor as the front door opens. Max dives for the bathroom while I stand to greet Kyle. “Ready?” I repeat, scratching my ear as I feel a heated flush rising in my cheeks. “Er…”

His eyes narrow as he glances first at me, then my chest. “Maybe you should change,” he shrugs casually, walking over to heft my suitcase. “You’re sweating really bad.”

I glance down and sure enough, perspiration dots the cotton shirt. I roll my eyes and release a breath, yanking the material over my head. “Right. It’s hot,” I mumble, equal parts relieved and flabbergasted by the fact that Kyle didn’t realize that Max’s underwear is laying right by my feet.

“Where’s Max?” he asks, and I’m about to answer when the man himself appears in the bathroom doorway.

“Kyle,” he says inanely.

“Max.”

Trying not to stare at his chest, I attempt to diffuse the situation. “Did you find it?” I ask, shooting him a raised browed look. He looks confused, then nods slowly when Kyle glances at him.

“Uh… yeah. I found it, all right,” he says quickly, shaking his head at me in confusion when Kyle turns away. I shrug, motioning with my hand towards his shorts, where the zipper is still undone and riding low on his hips.

I wiggle my brows at him lasciviously, and he turns red while tugging the zipper up. “Great… then we’re all set,” I smirk, giving him one last hot look before turning… to find Kyle watching us with confused eyes. I quickly sober. “Valenti, heads up.”

He catches the shirt to his chest, holding it up and wrinkling his nose. “Great. Now I’ll smell like eau de Gannon all day. Thanks.”

I pat his shoulder while walking by, hefting my backpack onto my bare shoulders. “No problem. Boys… let’s make like shepherds and get the flock outta here.”

Kyle chuckles and takes up the lead with my suitcase in hand. I wait for Max to walk by, and pinch his ass as he does. He jumps then turns and mock glares at me.

“That was close,” he mutters. “Next time… maybe you should try locking the door?”

I shrug, smiling wryly as I realize for the first time that maybe it wouldn’t be so bad for everyone to know the truth about us. A part of me yearns to stand up and announce to the world that this man is mine and yes, that I’m his. But there’s also the part of me that says, what the hell are you thinking, Gannon?

“I can’t wait to see Liz,” Max sighs, a sappy smile on his face as we follow Kyle out to his truck where Michael and Alex wait.

I half expect to feel a slight pang of jealousy at the obvious excitement in his tone. Instead, I only grow hard with anticipation. The idea of being with both of them again after this time I’ve spent with Max… it fills me with a lust so strong it almost crosses my eyes.

Because I know that this time, I won’t have to hide the feelings I have for Max.


<center>***</center>


An unknown amount of time later, I’m jostled awake by an abrupt squealing of tires. I blink, disoriented, and glance around the dark car. “Whazzit..?” I mumble sleepily, and look down to see Michael’s head in my lap. “What the holy…”

“No, mommy… no wanna get up,” he snuffles, wiggling his head in my lap. His eyes open slowly, then close again… only to fly back open as he realizes where he is. He sits up with a cry, running a hand through his hair.

His scream awakens Max, who’s sprawled out in the front seat, and he jerks up. “I’ve got it under control!” he yells, then frowns. “Wait… what happened?”

“Oh, Michael no wanna get up,” I coo. “Parker… do I look like your mommy?”

“Eat shit.”

“Can you guys keep it down?” Alex mumbles, shifting next to me. “I was having the best dream… Isabel was wearing-” he trails off at the loud clearing of Max’s throat. “Oh, sorry, dude. But it was great.”

“What happened?” I crane my head forward. “Did you fall asleep at the wheel, Kyle?”

“No, some asshole tried to cut into my lane,” he growls, and I exchange a raised brow with Max. It’s pretty well-known that Kyle, while being an extremely nice guy during other circumstances, turns into a pyschopath behind the wheel. I’ve even seen him cuss out a poor, hapless woman at the drive-thru.

“Riiight,” I drawl, rubbing my arm that somehow managed to fall asleep on me. “Me thinks someone’s road rage is kickin’ in. Maybe I should take over.”

“Hey, I don’t have road rage,” he answers in affront. Then lays his hand down on the horn as a sports car whizzes past. “Hey, dickhead! I’m driving here!” he yells out the window.

I simply hum.

“Nick’s right,” Max’s low voice sounds and the sleep-roughened quality nearly makes me shiver. Damn, what’s the world coming to? What the hell is it about this guy that gets to me? “Let someone else drive for awhile, Kyle.”

“I don’t know…” he hedges, stroking the wheel like a long-lost lover. Did I mention he’s slightly overprotective of his car, as well?

“Come on, Valenti,” I grunt, leaning forward and thumping him in the head. “I promise to flip off all the old ladies in your stead.”

“And what do I get, Michael falling asleep in my lap?” he returns wryly. “Thanks, but no thanks.”

“I was asleep!” comes Michael’s ingenious reply.

“Maybe you’ll get lucky and have a dream about…” I trail off, remembering exactly who he’d be dreaming about. “Damn you, why do you have to be dating my cousin?”

“Hmm… that’s a good idea,” he drawls, obviously zoning in on the previous part of my statement. “Yeah, you can drive.”

“Oh, fabulous,” I returns dryly. “All the while knowing you’re sitting back here dreaming of doing God know’s what with Serena?”

“Can’t win ‘em all, Gannon,” he smirks, pulling over and tossing me the keys. “Nitey night, boys.”

Minutes later, I’m pulling back out onto the freeway and I glance over to see Max watching me with an unreadable expression. I cock a brow at him, reaching down to change the radio station. “What’s up?”

He shakes his head, looking towards the front again. “Nothing… just wondering what goes on in your head, sometimes,” he answers softly, stretching his hands back behind his head.

I glance in the rearview to see the guys asleep in the back. “Which one?” I reply quietly, boldly reaching over and brushing my fingers along his thigh. He tenses, glancing at me in shock.

“What are you doing?” his voice has gone up a few notches as he looks over his shoulder.

“Shifting gears,” I answer smoothly. “Chill, babe.”

“Babe?” he grunts, but there’s more amusement than offense in his tone. “Only if I get to call you sugar dumpling,” he adds sarcastically.

I shoot him a wink. “Call me whatever you want… as long as you’re on your knees while you’re at it.”

He chuckles. “You’re so fucking arrogant. One of these days, Gannon… you’re going to lose your cool. And I’m going to be there to see it.”

“A little cocky yourself, dontcha think?”

“Completely.”

I grin at the flirtatious banter, and we grow quiet as the sound of the late-night DJ fills the air. I’m tapping my fingers against the wheel to the tune of an old Black Sabbath song, when I’m overcome with a sudden rush of terrifying emotion.

I’m fucking in love with him.

Now, this shouldn’t strike me as surprising… seeing as how I already assumed as much. But when I glance over at him and he shoots me that half-grin, I have to swallow to keep the words at bay.

I’ve never truly been in love. I thought I had been, but what I felt for Tess pales in comparison to this intensity taking over me. And that’s what scares the absolute shit out of me. The idea that someone could mean so damn much.

“You okay?” his quiet voice sounds, full of concern as he no doubt catches the look of utter shock I know must be plastered across my face.

I blink, glancing back at him. “Uh… yeah,” I answer hoarsely. I have to clear my throat before I can speak again. “What was our exit again?”

“217,” he frowns. “Nick… you look like you’re about to be sick.”

“I’m fine,” I answer quickly, scanning the road. Once I glimpse our exit, I pull off the highway.

He doesn’t push me, but I can feel his questioning gaze the entire ride to the hotel. Once parked, I hear a loud squeal and glance over to see the girls standing in the parking lot.

Max is out of the car in an instant, Liz wrapped in his arms as he laughs and swings her around. “God, I missed you,” I hear him whisper seconds before he kisses her.

She giggles, kissing him back as his hands slide down to cup her butt. “I missed you, too,” she answers breathlessly. She turns to me as Max continues nuzzling her neck. A strange light shines from her eyes as she studies me. Then she smiles. “Hey, stud.”

“Hey, gorgeous,” I answer with a grin, walking over to hug her as I hear the rest of the gang reuniting in the background. “Got a kiss for me?”

“I got more than that,” she purrs, surprising me as she leans in to nip my ear. “God, I’ve missed you two so much.” Her soft breath sends a shaft of pleasure to my groin, especially when I look over and see Max’s gaze on us, his golden eyes dark with arousal.

“That right?” I murmur, unable to take my eyes away from him as he comes up behind Liz and wraps his hands around her stomach. “I figured you guys would wanna… you know…” I make a vague gesture while scratching my head.

“Don’t even think about bailing on us,” Max answers in a low voice. “We’ll tie you to the bed again, Nick. Don’t think I forgot how much you enjoyed it last time.”

“Oh, good idea, baby,” Liz giggles seductively. “This bad boy needs some punishment every once in awhile. Reminds him who’s really in charge around here.”

I grin lazily, leaning against the car as they both stare at me hungrily. “And you think it’s you?” I drawl huskily.

“You know it,” she returns, licking her lips. “And if I don’t get my way in the next hour, I’m going to be one very angry woman. You wouldn’t like me angry.”

“Seems I’ve heard that line somwhere,” I tease, then stretch my neck. “I’m game. But what about everyone else?”

“What about them?” Max’s voice chimes in. “I doubt Michael and Maria are much longer for this world,” he nods towards the couple who are currently pressed up against the side of the wall as they try to eat each other’s faces off. “Alex and Kyle don’t seem to be feeling very… sociable either.”

I wince as I watch Kyle swing Serena into his arms and head inside, Alex and Isabel close behind. I catch Max’s gaze and we both share a shudder.

I follow them towards the room that Liz has reserved, noting that it’s on a completely different floor than the rest of the gang. With one final look down the hallway, I turn and eye them both as they walk inside the room. “All right. Be gentle with me, you two.”

They exchange a dangerous smile, then both grab an arm and tug me inside.

“Get naked, both of you,” Liz breathes, already stripping her shirt off as she descends upon the two of us like a hungry tigress.

“Me-ow,” I can’t resist mumbling, even as she gives me a questioning glance. Max, however, completely understands my frame of mind, judging by the colossal erection in his shorts.

Must be a guy thing.

She skims her shorts down her legs, and stands there in a skimpy lace bra and matching thong. I feel like a kettle that has been left on too long, sure that steam is pouring from my ears.

“Oh, Christ Jesus, thank you,” I whisper, jokingly folding my hands together in a prayer. “I’ve been such a good boy.”

Max snorts, then pulls me closer to him as his hands disappear beneath the hem of my shirt. “The last thing you ever are, Gannon, is good.”

He kisses me, our shirts disappearing in the process as I feel Liz come up behind me, her soft hands trailing along my bared flesh. I shiver as her lips replace her fingers, sliding down my spine until she reaches the band of my shorts.

I groan into Max’s mouth, gripping his ass tightly as I eagerly await her next move. His hips thrust against mine, grinding our cocks against each other as he slants his mouth across my own.

I almot cry out in despair as Liz steps back, circling around to nuzzle Max’s neck as her hands brush across his shoulders. His lips press more firmly against mine, biting and tugging fervantly.

We both gasp as her hands descend upon our groins, adding more friction to the hot bump and grind that already has me pushing against that sweet edge. She goes to work on Max first, quickly freeing his thick cock before she turns and shoves my shorts down to my ankles.

“God, that’s better,” I groan, and yank her into the fray as we all sink to the ground. “Put your mouth on me,” I breathe huskily, not caring who answers my request.

At this moment, they’re two halves of the same whole. It’s weird… I used to think that Liz was the focal point of my relationship with them. As long as I made her the primary focus, I could fool myself into thinking that it was all a lark… that I wasn’t gay and I sure as hell didn’t have feelings for Max.

But now the axis has shifted, and instead of seeing Liz when I close my eyes, it’s another dark head between my legs, taking my pulsing erection into his hot mouth.

I can’t hold back the gasp that escapes my throat as I feel another set of lips licking and teasing my nipple. I feel achy and hot and so fucking aroused I could blow my load on a dime.

That’s when Max scrapes his teeth gently down my length, and my eyes fly open, locking with his as I come inside of his mouth. He doesn’t pull away as I thrust wildly against him, but continues to swallow every inch of me while making sounds of appreciation.

“Oh, shit!” I throw my head back, panting in excitement as he continues to suck, and Liz’s mouth switches to the other sensitive point on my chest.

When they finally ease their torment of me, I’m so wild that I can’t decide who I want to attack first. Then the answer is made for me as Liz turns to me with dark eyes and nods her head.

We both turn to stare at Max, who is sporting one of the most impressive erections I’ve ever seen in my life. He swallows, not in trepidation, but in aroused expectancy as Liz and I crawl towards him.

[Applebylicious]

Okay... nearing the end here. But not quite yet. Thanks to all the new readers for coming out the closet and posting! And to all my Ho's who have supported me throughout. And thanks to the lurkers who are enjoying this fic and pm'ing me with their praises. *Hugs* Thanks for sticking through this smutty slash-quest with me, gang! Hope you all enjoy this part... short though it may be.

Only a part to go!

Linds


<center>Part 6</center>


(Max POV)


“Got anything to say, Evans?” Nick’s lips curl into a feral grin as he circles me, coming up to wrap his arms around me from the back. I release a ragged sigh as his hands slide down my chest, the rough callouses rasping across my flesh and drawing forth shudders of desire.

“Yes,” I manage to gasp as Liz wraps her small hand around the base of my cock. “Oh, shit!”

They exchange amused smiles over my head before she leans forward to nip my ear. “What do you want, baby?” she breathes, releasing my cock to run her hands teasingly down her stomach. “Tell us.”

“I…” I swallow as Nick bends down and takes her lips, teasing and sucking right next to my face. “Fuck me!” I cry out harshly, jerking as his arms squeeze more tightly around me. “Both of you.”

“Relax,” his voice purrs in my ear, his hand taking Liz’s place and pumping my dick once, twice. “You gorgeous little bitch.”

I glare at him, but any annoyance dissapates at the grin stretching his lips. “Smart ass,” I growl in return, yanking his head towards me as our lips crash together. “Yeahh…” I breathe harshly, widening my legs as I feel his newly swollen cock press against the base of my spine.

My eyes catch Liz’s, who watches us with a mixture of arousal and fascination. I swallow, feeling slightly guilty in the fact that at that moment… the person I want isn’t the woman I’ve spent my life in love with. What I have with Liz is sweet and sexy and at times, erotically romantic.

What I have with Nick is dirty, sweaty and downright rough. And at the moment, I want it hard. I want it fast. And I want it fucking now.

I stare into her eyes, but I don’t see any accusation or jealousy in the dark brown depths. Only a loving understanding that nearly brings me to my knees as I realize just how much she truly knows me. She smiles at me, and places a soft kiss on my lips, stroking my cheek before whispering, “It’s okay.”

“What are you guys whispering about?” Nick chuckles. “I’m starting to feel like a third wheel, here.”

Liz doesn’t answer, merely drops to her knees and takes me in her warm mouth. My head drops against Nick’s hard shoulder as my hands bury in her hair, my hips pumping against her mouth as I groan.

“Do you like that, Max?” he whispers into my ear, his own hand sliding down to toy at my rear entrance. “What else would you like?”

“I want to fuck you,” I growl honestly. “Right here, right now.”

Liz pauses in her ministrations, gazing up at me with surprise. Nick also stills, and my heart beats as I await his answer. For some reason, here in front of Liz, I want to see him admit his feelings for me, whatever they may be.

And I want the two people I love more than anything in this world to know how I feel about them both.

After a long moment, he laughs. “Not one for subtlty is he, Liz?” he teases in a gruff tone.

“Not Max,” she smiles, and stands up to brush a shock of hair from my brow. “Do you want me to leave?” she asks quietly, tenderly pressing her lips against the corner of my mouth.

“What? No,” I frown. “No… I don’t want you to leave. I want… you to watch…” I trail off, flushing slightly as I wonder if she’s going to be disgusted by my admission.

Instead she only smiles. “I’ll be here.” Then she steps back and lounges in a nearby chair as she waits for us to begin.

I turn to Nick and see him regarding me with unreadable eyes. “Well?” I demand gruffly, waiting to hear him tell me no. Waiting for him to prove that he’s not ready for what I need from him.

“Well.” His brow quirks and then he grabs me and plants a kiss full of rough desire on my lips. “Fuck me, then,” he breathes, reaching down to squeeze my ass.

“Don’t tease me,” I mutter warningly, backing him towards the bed as his hand comes down to stroke my cock. “I’m not in a sweet and easy mood, Gannon.”

“Ooh… promises promises,” he answers gruffly, pulling me down on top of him with a jerk on my dick. “Tell me something, Max… what if I didn’t want it sweet and easy?”

I stare down into his eyes, dark and filled with the same urgent need that aches through me, and with a harsh groan I straddle him and crash our mouths together.

Our hips ram against one another as hands stroke roughly against flesh… lips and tongues tangling hotly. I hear a sigh come from across the room, and know that Liz is enjoying the scene as much as either of us.

“Max,” he groans, reaching down and pumping me tightly. “Right fucking now… I want it so bad.”

“Oh, I’ll give it to you,” I answer thickly, and slip my arms beneath his legs, angling his hips upwards as I use my saliva to coat his entrance. “Admit you like it,” I beg shamelessly, positioning myself against the puckered entrance as I catch and hold his gaze. “Tell me.”

“Hell yes, I like it!” he growls in answer, arching his hips and sending the the tip of me inside him. We both groan, breathing heavily. “Don’t you know by now?”

I come to my knees, thrusting past the tight ring of his entrance as I bite down on my lower lip. “Yeah… I guess I know,” I murmur huskily. “I love being inside you… having you inside me. Nick… I love…”

“I know,” he answers, panting as our eyes lock together in heated emotion. “I love you, too.”

I drive inside him with a cry, fiercely pounding his ass as we both gasp and groan. “Harder,” he grits out, holding onto the bedpost as I continue ramming him. “Fuck me more… God!”

He comes so suddenly that we both cry out, as his anal muscles contract around my cock, his own pulsing onto his abdomen. I thrust in to the hilt, throwing my head back and groaning as I pour myself inside him.

That’s when I hear the crying.


~Okay, I couldn't let you all think something bad... so let me assure you this isn't a BAD cliffie. Hee hee... I'm so easy. Man.

[Applebylicious]

Another one bites the dust! Okay, I'll be back with comments later. First I wanna see all of your reactions to the end. I hope maybe even some of you lurkers... ahem... will come out of the closet for this final part...? Show me some love? I love you all! Imma peace out, mofo!

Hugs,

Linds


<center>Conclusion</center>


(Nick POV)


Max practically jumps off of me as we hear Liz crying quietly in the corner. “Baby, what’s wrong?” he whispers frantically, gathering her in his arms as sweat drips down his back.

She shakes her head, her lips wobbling as she kisses him gently. “Nothing’s wrong… I’m just so happy that you two finally admitted… that you loved each other.”

Max and I exchange confused expressions. I shrug, scratching my head. “PMS?” I mouth, and the corner of his mouth quirks. He turns back to Liz and runs his hand down the curtain of her hair. “What do you mean, baby?”

She sniffles elegantly, dragging him back over to lie on the bed. “We’ve been… together,” she hedges, “for so long now. But I’ve always felt like we were incomplete, because the two of you were so afraid to admit your feelings to one another. Now we can really be three.”

“Wait a minute,” I interrupt, eyes narrowing. “How the hell did you know? I didn’t know I had feelings for Max until… well, just now to be honest.”

She gives me a look that says, Oh, you poor, blind, stupid man. Then she reaches over and takes my hand, placing it over her heart. “Because… I love you. And I love him.”

She says it like that’s it. Max smiles at her like he understands, but I have to admit I feel a little uncomfortable. “But… you couldn’t possibly have known…” I trail off as she nods. “Well, damn. And here I thought I was having this amazing breakthrough,” I grumble, crossing my arms over my chest and slumping against the headboard.

“Would it help if we pretended she didn’t know?” Max asks, and I mock glare at the mischief sparkling in his eyes. “Come on, Nick… you aren’t really mad.”

“Yeah, you looove us,” Liz drawls out, giggling as I reach for her. She squeals and rolls away, right on top of Max. He grunts and arms and legs go every which way as we all start wrestling around on the king-sized bed.

Max and I exchange an evil grin before each taking a side of her shirt and ripping it down the middle. She shrieks, laughing hysterically as I start tickling her ribs.

None of us hear the sound of the door opening.

“Hey Max, you forgot your extra key card…” Alex’s voice trails off as we all freeze, then glance over at the doorway. “Oh my God!” he says, immediately covering his eyes against our nudity.

“Fuck!” Max hisses, rolling away and grabbing a pillow to throw over his erection. Liz shrieks, scooting behind Max and leaving me sitting there butt naked.

I lift a hand and… wave. “Uh… hey, Alex.”

He stiffens at the sound of my voice. “Nick,” he says in a high-pitched tone. “What are you… you know what, never mind,” he adds quickly. “I’ll just… leave this right… here.” He fumbles around for the table and drops the key card like it’s flammable. “I was never here.”

I catch Liz and Max’s glances and although they look pale, there’s also a sort of relief there. And a hesitancy that I know is on my behalf. Well, the strange thing is… I don’t feel hesitant at all.

I turn back to Alex. “Actually, Alex… could you call the others? There’s… something I want to tell everyone.”

“Oh, God,” Alex groans. “I… I didn’t see anything. I swear,” he holds his hands up, then squeezes his eyes shut.

“Are you sure?” Max speaks in a low voice next to me. “Nick… are you sure about this?”

I turn to him, letting him see just how sure I am. “I love you,” I speak gruffly. Then to Liz, “Both of you. I don’t want to hide it any longer. If they really care about us… it won’t matter.”

“I agree,” Liz adds softly. Then smiles. “We’ll see you downstairs, Alex.”

“Oh God,” Alex whispers, then nods and leaves like he’s running a marathon.

We’re all silent for a long moment, before Max clears his throat. “So… what now?”

“Don’t ask me,” I raise my hands. “I’m just the brainless jock in this relationship.”

They both make a face at me, then Max grins wickedly. “All brawn… no brains. The perfect boy-toy,” he purrs, reaching down and running his hand over my half-erect cock.

“It pays to be a pretty boy,” I smirk, closing my eyes and sighing in exaggeration as he bends and licks my shaft. My eyes cross. “Damn!”

“And then there’s the sultry brunette bombshell,” Max continues huskily, grinning as he lays back, pulling Liz across his lap. “Luckily, she has enough brains for herself and our poor, dim-witted boy-toy.”

“Ha ha,” I growl, coming up behind Liz as Max slides inside her sleekly. She throws her head back and moans, cradling my head against her shoulder as her lips meet mine.

I reach around, molding her breasts as she continues to lift herself over Max. Soft moaning can be heard through the room before she lets out a soft cry and arches back, her palms splayed across Max’s chest as she comes. He stares at us with a tight jaw, thrusting upward as Liz captures my lips again, and his head flops back as he hisses through his teeth.

I make a rough sound, pushing Liz forward and parting her cheeks before sliding inside the smooth entrance of her ass. “Oh, yeah baby… I missed you,” I groan, wrapping an arm around her as she gasps in pleasure. “Yeah… throw that ass back at me,” I bite my lip, riding her as she rides Max.

Max’s hands slide up Liz’s hips and tangle with my own, and we’re all there together… loving each other together for the first time. Or so it seems, anyway.

I recall Joe’s words… “If they make you happy, Nick, then it’s a good thing.”

And I know that as long as I have this, everything will be fine.


<center>***</center>



(Max POV)


I take a deep breath, and feel their fingers tangling with mine as we stand outside the door where the rest of our friends wait inside. I glance at Nick, and he offers me a wink, squeezing my hand before reaching back and popping me on the ass.

That’s the equivilent of saying I love you from Nick Gannon.

Liz gives me a soft look and kisses me on the cheek, then lays her head against Nick’s shoulder. I look back and lift my hand, knocking lightly.

Maria answers the door, an excited look in her eyes. She practically drags us inside. “What’s the news? Ohmygod, tell me now!”

I raise an eyebrow, glancing at Alex who sits on one of the two double beds in the room. He turns slightly red upon my scrutiny, but doesn’t look away. I read in his eyes his decision to not speak, and I incline my head in thanks.

“Hey, guys.”

Everyone stops what they’re doing and turns to stare as Nick, Liz and I walk inside, followed by a bouncing Maria. Kyle’s eyes narrow, then he glances at Alex. His eyes widen from whatever he sees there, then turn back to us… or more specifically the spot where Nick and I are still holding hands.

“What’s going on?” he demands, not in an angered or disgusted tone… merely extreme curiosity.

“Max?” my sister’s voice captures my attention and I look over to see her watching me with wide eyes.

I clear my throat. “Guys… there’s something I need to talk to you about. And I want you all to know…” I trail off, not knowing what the hell I want to say. How do you tell your best friends that you’re in a three-way relationship you don’t ever see ending?

Nick picks up smoothly. “I’m in love with Liz.”

Long silence. Then gasps and murmurs. I shoot him an annoyed glance, but he smiles back, obviously enjoying making them all sweat.

“What?” Michael bellows, his eyes shifting between the three of us. “Max… did you hear what he said?”

“Uh… yeah,” I scratch my head.

“And you aren’t pissed?” Kyle’s jaw drops open. “Holy hell… Max, are you feeling all right?”

“If you guys would wait a damn minute,” Nick growls. “I wasn’t finished.” He waits for them all to calm down, then thrusts out his chin and says, “I’m also in love with Max.”

I stifle the hysterical giggle as I watch the domino effect take place. Kyle starts choking on dry air, stumbling into Michael, who does a fairly good impression of the American flag – turning white, then red, then an interesting shade of blue. Michael grabs onto the first thing he sees, which happens to be a frozen Isabel, who cries out and yanks onto Serena.

Pretty soon, they’re all lying on the ground staring up at us. I can hear Maria sniffing cedar oil in the background while Alex just stares at us with unreadable eyes.

“Are you out of your mind?!” Michael regains his speech and glares at all three of us. “Is this some kind of sick joke?”

Liz stiffens. “It’s not a joke, and it’s not sick,” she snarls at her brother, stomping over to stand above him. Hands firmly on her hips she bends so that her nose is level with his and grits out, “I’m in love with them, too.”

Everyone starts talking at once.

Nick and I just sigh. “Okay, everyone shut up or I’ll… I’ll start making out with Max right here!” he yells, and sure enough, everyone shuts the hell up.

“Thanks,” I say dryly. Then I turn to our friends… the people who make up my second family. They’re as close to me as any blood tie, and some of them even are. I turn to them and speak honestly. From my heart. “If any of you have a problem with this… you’re going to have to get the hell over it, because this is how it’s going to be from now on.”

With that, I yank Nick to me and kiss him the way I’ve kissed Liz a million times in front of them. I frame his face, slanting my lips over his and closing my eyes as I lose myself in him. Then I do the same to Liz. When we break apart, I see everyone staring at us with various emotions.

Serena speaks up first. “Nick… are you sure this is what you want?” she asks softly, her green cat eyes focused intently on her cousin.

Nick nods, meeting her gaze directly. “Yeah, ‘Rena. For the first time… I think I found what I’ve been looking for,” he answers gruffly. “I hope… I hope you don’t think less of me.”

She’s across the room in less than five seconds, arms wrapped around him as she buries her head in his chest. Nick looks startled, then his arms come around her gradually as the most heartbreaking expression crosses his face. He closes his eyes, laying his cheek on top of her hair as he hugs her tightly.

“How could I think less of you?” Serena demands in an angry whisper. “I love you, Nick. We all love you. We want you to be happy. All of you.” She turns and addresses the rest of the gang, while the three of us look on in amazement. “If any of you have a problem with this, then you’re thick in the head. They love each other. That should be enough.”

“I don’t have a problem with it,” Kyle says unexpectedly, coming to place his hands on his girlfriend’s shoulders. “As long as you guys are happy.”

“Well, I think it’s just great,” Maria pipes in, smiling brightly. “Damn, Liz… when you get lucky, you get really lucky.”

“Yeah,” Alex echoes, and a small grin covers his face. “I’m cool with it. As long as I never walk in on anything ever again. Ever,” he adds quickly.

I roll my eyes, but can’t hide the fact that my heart is pounding a thick beat in my chest as my eyes turn to my sister and my best friend, the only two who have yet to speak.

Isabel is staring at me with wide eyes. “Max… what about marriage? And a family… how are the three of you going to make this last?”

“I don’t know,” I answer softly, glancing at Nick and Liz. “I don’t know anything anymore. I’m just doing what feels right, Iz. Please understand that.”

She looks troubled, but nods. “I… I’ll try.” She bites her lip, then walks over and hesitantly hugs me. Then she wraps her arms around me and whispers, “Is Nick a good kisser?”

I pull back in shock. “Isabel!”

“What?” she demands, then grins. “I will get all the details out of you, Max.”

I shudder at that thought. “Good luck. Anyway…”

“Liz, I don’t understand this at all,” Michael speaks up. “When the hell did Gannon even enter this mix? How long has this been going on?”

“It doesn’t matter, Michael,” I say before Liz can get defensive. “He’s in the mix, now, and he’s going to stay there. The question is… can you handle it?”

Everyone’s silent as we await Michael’s reaction. Finally he flops onto his back with a groan. “Good God… this group is wacko. Does anyone else want to date my sister?”


<center>***</center>


Later on, the three of us lie in bed. Nick is kissing down Liz’s back as she straddles my stomach. A sudden thought enters my mind and I can’t drive it away. “Wait,” I call out as she positions herself to drive down on me. “Nick, switch places with me.”

“Huh? What?” he asks, looking very confused and very aroused as he pulls back and stares at me through heavy-lidded blue eyes. His cock stands out, begging for a touch.

“C’mere,” I answer, reaching out for him. He comes willingly, and I whisper into his ear. He perks up, grinning at me before waggling his brows.

“Definitely down for that,” he murmurs, kissing me before taking my place. He lies on his back, stretching his arms behind his head and looking like six feet of golden God reclining against cotton sheets.

Liz doesn’t question the change, simply takes his length in hand and lowers herself onto his thick shaft. They both groan as he enters her, and I can’t resist stroking myself as they begin a hot grinding that makes my cock ache.

“That’s it,” I murmur roughly, kneeling behind her as I watch them continue to make love to each other. “Oh, God… you guys are so hot together. Damn.”

“I can’t believe I haven’t had a piece of this sweet pussy before now,” Nick answers gruffly, and thrusts his hips upward on a long groan. “Between her pussy and your ass, Max… I’m in heaven. Oh, fuck!”

I take Nick’s usual spot, thumbing her nipples and nibbling her neck as she moans. I lean my head around and close my lips over one aching point, suckling her deep into my mouth as she screams.

“Oh… she liked that,” Nick laughs hoarsely. “I felt it. Come here." He beckons and I lean further to capture his lips in a wet kiss.

“I’m on testosterone overload,” Liz manages to gasp, making us all laugh. “And may I never be without it again.”

<center>~The End~</center>

[Applebylicious]

Dropping off this banner to vote for me.



Best Slash Fic

hugs, Lindsay