Copyright and Disclaimer: 1. This is a fictional story with fictional characters. 2. No one is to steal this story under any circumstances. 3. This story deals with relationships and not sex, so if you're looking for a story with a lot of sex in it, this isn't the story for you.
Here's part 28 titled "Confused and Abused"
It's been two months since Faith's miscarriage. She and Colby were still coping, Kyle had moved back in with David, Tyler and Jake have decided on a wedding cake, but not much else, Marcus and Randal were keeping busy with the club, and David, Kyle and Marcus were no where near deciding who's going to be Tyler and Jake's best men.
"You guys still aren't anywhere near deciding who's going to be our best men?" Tyler asked. "The wedding is in a month and there is a lot of planning to do. One of the duties of the best man is to help us with this stuff."
"I know, but it's just been really hectic lately," David defended. "Kyle has been out looking for a job, Marcus has been consumed with the club, and the store has been really busy for me recently."
Tyler and David were at a new Italian bistro that opened up for dinner. The other guys were all busy.
"After tomorrow I will have more free time so I can help you guys with the wedding stuff okay?" David offered.
"Thank you," Tyler said gratefully. "There is so much to do and I feel like we don't have enough time."
"What stuff do you have to do still?" David asked.
"The main thing is the reception, what food we want to have, the music, the theme, everything," Tyler replied stressed.
"How many people are going to be at this thing again?" David asked.
"Just us," Tyler replied.
"Then why have a reception?" David asked. "It seems like a waste of money."
"Jake really wants one," Tyler replied.
"Listen," David began, "Here's what you guys should do. Book a suite at the hotel we're going to stay at, we'll decorate the room have a nice dinner set up there and just have the reception there. It will be nice and intimate and more then enough room for us. What do you think?"
Tyler thought it over for minute before responding, "I think that A. it's a brilliant idea and B. I just found my best man."
"What?" David asked.
"I know we told you we want you guys to decide who is going to be our best men, but I want you to be mine," Tyler replied.
"Really?" David asked touched.
"Yeah," Tyler answered. "That whole idea was great and you were making that effort to help us out before you were even named a best man."
"Well, it was a pretty good idea," David said with a smile.
"Cheers," Tyler said indulging David's ego as him and David clinked glasses.
"This is a nice place," David said looking around the bistro.
"Yeah, and crowded," Tyler added. "I over heard the hostess telling a couple it would be a three hour wait for a table."
"It's too bad the other guys can't be here tonight," David said.
"What's Kyle doing?" Tyler asked.
"He was out all day getting job applications and searching the classifieds and was just too worn out," David replied.
"He doing all right? I haven't seen him for a few days," Tyler replied.
"Yeah, he's okay," David said. "It kills him that I'm financially supporting him right now. He feels so guilty over it."
"Really?" Tyler asked.
"Yeah," David replied. "I mean I am very comfortable financially and I can pretty much go on supporting Kyle and myself for the rest of our lives, but his damn pride gets in the way."
"Kyle's always been like that," Tyler said. "Can't teach an old dog new tricks."
"I'm not saying I want him to give up his independence or anything, but I don't want him to have to stress so much," David explained. "He's a smart and talented guy, and I know he'll find a career at some point that he loves, but he's just kicking himself over the fact that he hasn't found it yet."
"You know he's always been good in art," Tyler suggested. "You should encourage that."
"I do," David replied. "I always tell him that he should work on it and take some art classes, but he says and I quote, 'it's just a useless hobby that will get me no where,' end quote."
"He's just in that stage in life," Tyler replied. "He'll figure it out."
"I know," David replied. "So, how's your man?"
"He's good," Tyler answered."He's freaking out about the wedding."
"Case of the bridezilla? Or in this case, groomzilla," David quipped.
"Definitely," Tyler answered. "He's just so worried something is going to go on and ruin everything."
"Something or someone?" David asked. "Anymore run ins with Miles?"
"No, and I have to say it's kind of worrying me," Tyler replied.
"Why?" David asked. "I would think it's a good thing that you don't hear from him anymore."
"He was so hell bent on getting Jake back and then suddenly he just stops," Tyler answered. "Don't you think it's kind of weird?"
"Maybe he see's that you and Jake are really happy," David suggested.
"I don't know," Tyler replied. "And I know Jake is worried about it too."
"Has he talked to you about it?" David asked.
"No, he's too afraid to even bring up his name to me," Tyler said. "He's still ashamed for what happened, I think he's worried that I'm still partially angry at him."
"Are you?" David asked.
"No," Tyler said. "Not at all. I used to think that I would never get over it, but since we started going to therapy and actually being more open with each other I find that I just love him so much there's no room to be angry at him."
"That's nice," David smiled. "I'm glad everything is great for you guys. You deserve it, both of you."
"Thanks," Tyler replied. "But Jake really needs to settle down with the wedding plans. He's going crazy.
You should see our apartment, there is wedding stuff everywhere."
"Well just tell him, you won't let Miles or anyone else ruin your guys' wedding and he can relax," David suggested.
"You know, it's weird, but I just have this feeling that Miles isn't done giving up on Jake," Tyler admitted. "I have this feeling that he's always watching us. It's a creepy feeling."
"I'm sure it's just all in your head," David replied.
Over on the other side of the restaurant, the creepy feeling that Tyler had was not just a feeling after all, because sitting down at a table in the corner of the place was Miles, sitting by himself and watching David and Tyler eat.
Meanwhile, at Marcus' house him and Randal were hard at work for the club.
"So, I've done four marketing studies and found that there is a 70% interest in our target clientele in the area," Marcus said.
"Good," Randal replied. "Are you worried at all?"
"A little, aren't clubs a really high risk?" Marcus asked.
"Yeah, it's a risk, but there are things that are a lot more risky," Randal replied. "Opening a restaurant or even a store like what David did is a bigger risk."
"We are going to need to get a loan or at least one investor in the club," Marcus said. "I was going over our funds and we aren't going to be able to do it by ourselves."
"I know," Randal replied. "I've already gotten a proposal written up to present to David."
"David?" Marcus asked.
"Yeah," Randal answered. "He's financially set and I'm sure he will help us out."
"Good idea," Marcus said.
"I can't believe this is actually happening," Randal said. "This has been my dream for so long now."
"I really think that this is going to be huge for us," Marcus relished.
Before Randal could comment his cell phone rang.
"Hello?" Randal asked answering.
"Hey, where are you?" Stanley asked.
"What?" Randal asked confused.
"I'm at the restaurant waiting for you," Stanley replied. "I've been here for almost 45 minutes."
"Oh I completely forgot," Randal said. "I got so caught up in work right now, I'm on my way."
"No, they already gave our table away so it would be an hour wait at least," Stanley said. "I'll just see you at home."
"I'm sorry babe," Randal said.
"It's okay," Stanley sighed. "I'll see you later."
"Bye," Randal said hanging up.
"What's wrong?" Marcus asked.
"I forgot I had dinner plans tonight with Stan," Randal said.
"Oh wow," Marcus said. "Was he upset?"
"A little, but he'll be fine," Randal said going back to looking over the marketing studies Marcus did.
"Maybe you should go home and make it up to him," Marcus suggested.
"We have so much work to do," Randal said. "Let's just get some more stuff done here and then I'll go home."
Marcus sighed, "Okay."
Later that night David went back to his place and found Kyle asleep on the couch with the newspaper opened to the classified section resting on his chest.
"Hey babe," David said gently waking Kyle up.
"Hmm?" Kyle asked groggily.
"Let's go to bed," David replied.
"You're home?" Kyle asked slowly waking up a little.
"Yeah," David replied.
"How was dinner?" Kyle asked.
"Not bad," David replied. "Come on, let's get ready for bed."
"No, I have to look through these classifieds some more," Kyle said rubbing his eyes.
"Kyle, you've been at this for two months now," David replied. "You need some rest."
"You're probably right," Kyle sighed. "I'm never going to find a job."
"You will," David encouraged. "You just have to find your passion."
"I don't really have a passion," Kyle thought. Then gave a little smile, "Other then you of course."
"Nice save," David said giving Kyle a kiss. "How about your art?"
"We've talked about that a million times before," Kyle moaned. "It's not going to get me anywhere."
"You don't know that," David replied. "I just think you're afraid that's all."
"Yes," Kyle replied. "I'm terrified that all the good jobs out there are taken."
"I'm not talking about that Kyle," David said.
"I know, but I don't want to talk about my art work anymore," Kyle said then leaned in and kissed David.
"Kyle," David said between kisses trying to resist Kyle, "I'm just trying to-"
But then David gave in and the two started undressing one another.
Over at Trevor's place Trevor and his friends were hanging out and talking when Miles came over.
"Hey," Zack said as Miles walked in, "Where were you?"
"I went out to eat," Miles replied simply.
"By yourself?" Zack asked.
"Yeah," Miles answered.
"Wow, I don't think I could ever eat out alone," Luis said as Miles sat down on the couch with them.
"It's not so bad," Miles replied, then quickly changed the subject, "So what are we talking about?"
"Trevor's in love with Justin again," Luis said.
"No I'm not," Trevor defended. "I love Marcus."
"Well, then what's going on?" Zack asked.
"It was weird," Trevor replied. "Last month when I saw him with his boyfriend, I wasn't as happy as for them as I thought I would be."
"Do you still have feelings for him?" Miles asked.
"I don't know," Trevor replied. "It's just weird. I'm in love with Marcus, he's the best guy I've ever been with, but it's just this connection I have with Justin. We have such a long history together."
"Sometimes you just can't help who you fall for," Miles said more so for himself then for Trevor.
"Why did you keep all this a secret for so long?" Luis asked. "You saw him a month ago. Were you ashamed of how you felt?"
"I don't know," Trevor answered.
"You shouldn't see Justin anymore," Luis suggested. "Feelings will just keep resurfacing if you stay with him."
"If feelings are still there then he should go for it," Miles said.
"What?" Zack asked. "He's in love with Marcus not Justin."
"If he still feels something for Justin then there is obviously something still there and he shouldn't be with Marcus if he really wants Justin," Miles suggested.
"I don't love Justin," Trevor said.
"You sure about that?" Miles asked. "Don't be with someone just because it's safe. Be with the one who excites you and gets your heart pounding faster just by being around them. Go for the one you know you should be with."
"Are you talking about Trevor's problem or yours?" Luis asked.
"What is that supposed to mean?" Miles asked.
"You said you're over Jake, but we all know you're not," Zack added. "We know you still want to be with him."
"So what if I do?" Miles asked.
"It's not going to happen," Trevor replied. "He's in love and engaged to Tyler."
"I sparked with Jake," Miles said. "And I know he sparked with me. It's like your situation, I think he's just with Tyler because it's safe, not because he actually loves him."
"I think you're just trying to find a way to defend what you're doing," Luis said. "You're going to try and break them up again."
"I won't let you," Trevor said. "They love each other and what you're doing is wrong."
"If you do then we'll tell them what you're up to," Zack said. "We're not going to back you up on this one."
"We love you but you're getting way to obsessed with him," Luis said. "It's starting to scare us."
"Oh whatever," Miles said getting pissed.
"We're serious," Trevor said. "If you don't stop I'm going to tell Jake and Tyler myself."
"Well," Miles said getting up, "I guess I know who my true friends are."
Miles then glared at the three of them and walked out of the apartment.
"Should we go after him?" Zack asked.
"No," Luis replied. "He's made his decision and we can't support it."
"And you know how he gets when he wants something," Trevor reminded.
"He becomes obsessed," Luis nodded.
"Lets just stay out of this," Zack suggested.
"So back to your problem," Luis said to Trevor. "What are you going to do about Justin?"
"Well, I obviously can't see him anymore," Trevor said.
"Good," Luis agreed.
Before the three could talk about the subject anymore Trevor's cell phone rang.
"It's Marcus," Trevor said looking at the caller ID.
"We'll get going," Zack said giving Trevor a hug. "Talk to you later."
"Bye," Luis said as they headed for the door.
"Bye, thanks guys," Trevor said as they left. Trevor then answered the phone. "Hey babe."
The next day at the diner David, Tyler, Jake, Marcus, Kyle, Randal, and Stanley were eating breakfast together.
"So, I have an announcement to make," Tyler said getting their attention. "I made David one of the best men."
"I thought you were having them decide who wanted to be best man," Randal pointed out.
"Well, David has already helped out some and he has the time for it right now," Tyler reasoned.
"Congratulations," Stanley said.
"Thanks," David replied.
"So now it's just up to Marcus and Kyle now," Jake said.
"Well, I think Kyle should do it," Marcus replied. "I just have no time right now with the club and everything."
"Really?" Jake asked.
"Yeah," Marcus replied. "And it would be nice if Kyle was the other best man because I'm sure him and David are the next to get married."
"I'd be honored," Kyle said. "It will give me something to do since I'm jobless and all."
"Still haven't found anything huh?" Jake asked.
"Nope and I can't mooch off of David forever," Kyle replied.
"Yes you can," David said putting an arm around Kyle.
"No I can't," Kyle replied. "But thanks for the offer."
"So it's settled," Jake said. "David and Kyle will be our best men."
"Great because we have a lot of things we need help on," Tyler said.
"Well, I'm free today," Kyle said. "What can I help you guys out with?"
"So many things," Jake said pulling out a big stack of men's fashion magazines. "I need you to help me look for something to wear for the ceremony."
"Wow," Kyle said looking at the stack of magazines.
"Oh for Christ's sake, just get a wedding planner if you're going to go all out," Randal suggested.
"We're not going to go all out anymore," Tyler said.
"You're not?" Stanley asked.
"We're not?" Jake asked shocked. "This is news to me."
"David suggested last night that instead of a big reception to just book a suite at the hotel we're staying at and just having it in there," Tyler explained, "It's only us after all."
"But I've always dreamed of a big wedding," Jake sighed.
"You have to keep money in mind also," Tyler said. "You grew up with a lot so I know you're used to high class and everything, but we can't afford that."
"But it's our one day we can go all out and celebrate," Jake reasoned.
"But is it worth spending the next ten years paying it off?" Tyler asked. "You're not marrying Mr. Big Bucks here."
"I know, but we should splurge a little. Right?" Jake asked.
"Yes, we can splurge on the food, dessert, our clothes," Tyler pointed out. "But we don't need a big reception when it's just going to be eight of us."
"I guess you're right," Jake sighed.
"I'm sorry, but it will still be amazing," Tyler said.
"I know," Jake answered.
"Cheer up Jake, you're getting married in Hawaii," Randal said. "That should be good enough."
"Yeah and all of us will be there together," Kyle reasoned. "That's all that matters right? We'll be together to celebrate your and Tyler's love."
"I know, you're right," Jake said cheering up some.
"Come on, let's go to the mall and try some clothes for you," Kyle said getting up.
"All right, I'll see you guys later," Jake said getting up and then giving Tyler a kiss. "Bye."
"Bye babe," Tyler replied.
"Love you," Kyle said kissing David.
"Love you too," David replied.
Kyle and Tyler then headed off to the mall together.
"Where should we look?" Kyle asked.
"Let's go to Saks Fifth Avenue," Jake replied.
"Wow, how much you plan on spending on your clothes?" Kyle asked.
"I don't have a price limit," Jake answered.
"Must be nice," Kyle sighed.
"Kyle, you'll find something," Jake encouraged.
"I don't know," Kyle replied. "I just feel kind of lost."
"You want to talk about it?" Jake asked.
"No," Kyle shook his head. "We're here to focus on you. So tell me what kind of outfit you looking for? A tuxedo?"
"Well, since we're not going all out I don't think I want a tuxedo anymore, I think just a nice pair of slacks and a dress shirt," Jake replied.
"Okay, well that should be easy to find," Kyle said.
"Yeah and the new Armani men's collection just came out," Jake said.
"You're going to get Armani?" Kyle asked.
"Yeah," Jake answered. "Why?"
"How can you afford this?" Kyle asked.
"Well, promise not to tell Tyler?" Jake asked.
"I guess," Kyle answered.
"Well, my parents don't want anything to do with the wedding, but they want to make sure I'm financially set in life so they gave me some money," Jake said.
"They did?" Kyle asked surprised.
"Yeah," Jake replied. "It was their unofficial wedding present to me."
"That's really nice," Kyle said. "So you're financially set for life?"
"I am now," Jake said.
"How are you going to keep this from Tyler?" Kyle asked.
"I'll tell him eventually, but he works so hard for his money and I know he'd feel uncomfortable to have so much just handed to us," Jake said. "He wants to be a provider."
"Still," Kyle said. "He's going to find out eventually."
"I know, I'll tell him when the time is right," Jake said.
"Okay," Kyle said. "But I don't think your therapist would think it's a good idea keeping this a secret from him."
"He's just so uncomfortable around money," Jake said. "I just don't know how he'll react to it."
"Only one way to find out," Kyle said.
"I guess you're right," Jake replied. "I'll talk to him about it."
"Promise?" Kyle asked.
"Promise," Jake replied.
Back at the diner Tyler, David, Randal, Stanley and Marcus were still eating.
"I think Trevor is falling for his ex again," Marcus brought up.
"What?" Randal asked. "Why do you think that?"
"Ever since we went out with Justin and Clark he's been acting distant," Marcus replied.
"How so?" Tyler asked.
"I can't explain it, but it feels like he's pulling away at times," Marcus explained.
"Have you tried talking to him?" David asked.
"No," Marcus replied.
"Oh Marcus, haven't you learned anything from David and Kyle's relationship and Tyler and Jake's relationship?" Randal asked. "If you think that something is bothering him then talk to him about it, don't come to us and worry about it, go to him."
"But what if I'm just being paranoid and nothing is wrong?" Marcus asked.
"Then maybe you should just wait until you're sure," Stanley suggested. "You don't want to start unnecessary drama."
"That's true," Marcus replied.
"If you have a feeling something is wrong, then chances are, something is wrong," David said.
"I agree," Tyler added. "Go with your instincts."
"But we have so much going on with the club right now," Marcus brought up.
"Stop thinking of excuses and just go talk to your man," Randal said.
"All right," Marcus answered as he took a bite of his food.
Randal, Tyler, David and Stanley all looked at one another.
"Marcus," Randal said getting Marcus's attention.
"Yeah?" Marcus asked.
"What are you waiting for?" Randal asked. "Go."
"Now?" Marcus asked.
"Yeah, why not? It's not like swimming where you have to wait thirty minutes after you eat to go talk to him," Randal replied.
"Okay," Marcus said getting up. "I'll see you guys later. Thanks."
Marcus then headed out and headed over to Trevor's place.
"Oh hey David I have some stuff I need help on for the wedding, would you mind?" Tyler asked.
"No, not at all," David replied. "I have to go to the store, but come with me and we'll go over it in my office."
"Cool, see you guys later," Tyler said as they got up.
"What is it you need help on?" David asked.
"My wedding vowels," Tyler replied.
The two then headed out leaving Randal and Stanley alone together. The two both looked at each other for a beat, not really sure what to say.
"Wow, it's been a while since the two of us have been alone together," Stanley said.
"What are you talking about?" Randal asked. "We live together."
"The only time I've seen you at home is right before we go to sleep," Stanley brought up. "Other then that I never see you anymore."
"Well what do you expect?" Randal asked. "I'm trying to open up a club here."
"I'm not trying to make you feel bad," Stanley retorted. "I'm just saying that I miss you."
"Well we're together now," Randal said.
"Yeah and I can tell we're both enjoying every second of it," Stanley sighed taking a bite of his food.
"Stan, if I'm really going to make this club a success, you have to realize that it's going to take a lot of time," Randal said.
"And you have to realize that I'm your boyfriend," Stanley said.
"What does that mean?" Randal asked.
"It means that you have to start making some time for us," Stanley replied. "I know your work is very important to you and I get it, but I won't be pushed to the side all the time."
"Do you not get how much work starting a business is?" Randal asked.
"Do you not get how much work maintaining a relationship is?" Stanley shot back.
Stanley grabbed his jacket and got up.
"All I'm saying is that it would be nice to have my boyfriend back," Stanley sighed. "You've changed lately. You were busy with this club before, but you were never cold, especially not to me. Whatever it is you're dealing with I wish you'd just let me help."
Stanley then walked out of the restaurant.
Randal was left sitting there not understanding why Stanley was being so unreasonable. In his mind he feels he has every right to be devoting himself completely to the club, why couldn't Stanley see it that way?
Marcus pulled up to Trevor's place and knocked on the door. When Trevor answered he was on the phone. He motioned Marcus to come in and held up a one with his hand telling Marcus he'd be right off the phone.
"All right," Trevor replied. "I have to get going. I'll talk to you soon... You too. Bye."
Trevor hung up and gave Marcus a kiss.
"Hi," Marcus said greeting him.
"Hey," Trevor replied. "I wasn't expecting you. What's up?"
"I just wanted to come by and talk," Marcus answered.
"Anything specific?" Trevor asked.
"Sort of," Marcus replied.
"Well, sit down," Trevor said. "I'm going to get some water, you want some?"
"No, I'm good thanks," Marcus said as he sat down in the living room. Trevor soon joined him on the couch.
"So what's up?" Trevor asked.
"I just want to make this clear first," Marcus said. "This has nothing to do with jealousy or anything all right?"
"Okay," Trevor replied seeing where Marcus was headed.
"Okay," Marcus continued. "How do you feel about Justin?"
Trevor was quiet for a minute.
"I was wondering when you were going to bring this up," Trevor replied.
"You were?" Marcus asked. "Why didn't you just say something then?"
"Because I really didn't know how to answer," Trevor replied.
"Do you have an answer?" Marcus asked almost afraid to hear what it might be.
"A part of me will always care about Justin and love him," Trevor replied.
Marcus sighed, not too sure how to take that comment.
"Justin in my life again has honestly made things a little weird for me," Trevor continued, "But that doesn't change how I feel about you."
"So what are you saying?" Marcus asked.
"I don't know," Trevor replied. "I honestly don't know what it is that I want. I love you but I have to be honest, I do still love Justin."
"I see," Marcus replied.
"I'm sorry I can't really give you a straight answer," Trevor said sincerely feeling bad and guilty.
"It's okay," Marcus sighed getting up. "I think I'm going to get going."
"Really?" Trevor asked in a worried tone.
"Yeah," Marcus replied as he headed for the door.
"Wait, Marcus," Trevor said catching up to him. "It's not over between us, is it?"
"I'm going to give you some space for a while," Marcus said. "I'll see you when we go to Hawaii for the wedding. Sound good?"
"You're going to stay away from me for that long?" Trevor asked.
"I think it's for the best," Marcus replied. "You have a lot you need to figure out and I don't want to intervene."
"Marcus," Trevor tried protesting by wrapping his arms around Marcus.
"Please," Marcus said taking Trevor's hand off of him. "This is hard enough as it is. Just let me know what you plan on doing when you make a decision."
Trevor just quietly nodded.
"I love you," Marcus said before closing the door and leaving Trevor alone. Not knowing what to do, Trevor picked up the phone and called back the person he was talking to before Marcus got there.
"Hey Justin, it's me again," Trevor said. "What? No, Marcus just stopped by and wanted to talk to me about something......Yeah, him and I are great."
Over at the Saks Fifth Avenue, Jake was looking at himself in the mirror wearing some of the clothes him and Kyle picked out. He was wearing a black Armani shirt with white stripes and Armani dress pants.
"Those clothes look amazing," Kyle admired.
"But do you think it might be too dressy for Hawaii?" Jake asked.
"A little bit, but you should just get it for the hell of it. You look hot," Kyle pointed out.
"I don't want to come back with too many clothes," Jake said. "That'll give away my little secret right away."
"Guess you have a point," Kyle remembered. "Well, try on the white silk shirt we picked out with the tan colored slacks. That would be nice for the wedding."
"That might work," Jake said heading into the dressing room. "Have you thought at all about what you're going to wear?"
"No, I'm more concerned right now with what I'm going to do for a job to get the money to buy clothes to wear for the wedding," Kyle deadpanned.
"How about getting a job at the club when Randal and Marcus open it up," Jake suggested.
"The club won't be up and running for months still," Kyle replied. "I need a job now. I don't like David having to support me."
"Why not?" Jake asked. "You and him are a couple, he's financially secure and has more then enough to support the two of you."
"Yeah, but doing that I feel like I am compromising my independence," Kyle replied. "Does that sound wrong? Don't get me wrong, I am so grateful and so lucky that David is willing to support me, but I feel like I have to find myself and in order to do that I need to know that I can support myself."
"And what do you plan on doing about David while you're on this search to find yourself?" Jake asked.
"I'm hoping that him and I will be at each other's side until the end," Kyle answered simply.
"Well, do you have any idea what you're going to do?" Jake asked.
"I think that once I get a job, I'm going to go back to school full time and go from there," Kyle replied.
"Wow, that's great," Jake said.
"Thank you," Kyle replied.
"I feel like I should go back," Jake said. "I've just quietly dropped out."
"Well it seems like you don't even need to go back," Kyle replied. "You have all the money you'll ever need in life."
"But like you said, it would be nice to make some of it on my own," Jake answered.
"We should take classes together, force each other to go," Kyle thought.
"Thanks sounds good to me," Jake answered. "It sounds really good actually."
"Good," Kyle nodded.
"So what do you think?" Jake asked stepping out of the dressing room wearing the white shirt and tan slacks.
"Perfect," Kyle replied. "Absolutely perfect."
"Thanks," Jake said.
"You look nice," Miles said coming up to the two of them.
"Miles," Jake said shocked. "What are you doing here?"
"I was out shopping and saw the two of you here," Miles replied. "Just thought I'd say hi."
"Hi," Kyle said cooly.
"What brings you guys here today?" Miles asked.
"We're shopping for clothes for Jake," Kyle replied defensively, "For his wedding, to Tyler."
"Nice," Miles said. "Well it looks great."
"Thanks," Jake said nervously.
"So Trevor's pretty excited about going," Miles said. "Sounds like it should be really nice."
"Yeah, it will be because Jake and Tyler are perfect for each other," Kyle shot.
"I'm sure they are," Miles said playing it cool.
"Well, we have a lot of other things to get done for the wedding so we should get going, right Jake?" Kyle asked.
"Right," Jake said.
"Good seeing you," Kyle said grabbing Jake and the two of them walked to another part of the store.
"Thank you so much," Jake said.
"No problem," Kyle said. "You okay?"
"Yeah," Jake nodded. "I just get so nervous around him. I can't even stand the thought of him. I don't want him to ruin Tyler's and my day."
"He won't," Kyle assured. "We won't let him."
"But what if he comes with Trevor?" Jake asked.
"Trevor's smart enough to know that Miles can't be there," Kyle replied. "So don't worry."
"Promise?" Jake asked.
"I promise," Kyle answered giving Jake a hug.
Meanwhile, over at David's store he and Tyler were in his office helping Tyler write his wedding vowels.
"I give you my heart and my soul," Tyler rehearsed, then sighed, "It sounds so cheesy."
"Well, that's good, weddings are kind of cheesy right?" David asked.
"Yeah, but I don't want you guys to throw up after I say these vowels," Tyler said scribbling out what he wrote.
"Just speak from the heart," David suggested. "Just be completely and totally candid and honest about your feelings for Jake."
"But when I do, the outcome makes me want to gag," Tyler said.
"Don't worry about it sounding cheesy," David said. "If it's from the heart then that's all that matters."
"All right," Tyler gave in, "But you all better not laugh at the wedding when I say them."
"We won't," David said. "The two of you getting married is a beautiful thing."
"Thanks," Tyler said writing some more.
Before they could continue their conversation Marcus walked in.
"Hi," Marcus sighed sitting down on the couch.
"What's wrong?" David asked. "Things not go well with Trevor?"
"We're taking a break," Marcus replied.
"A break?" Tyler asked. "Why?"
"He's torn between me and Justin," Marcus replied.
"Are you serious?" David asked.
"Since Justin came back in his life it's brought back all these old feelings for him," Marcus sighed. "I'm going to lose him."
"You two are great together," Tyler said. "He's just a little confused now, but I'm sure he knows that you two are meant to be together."
"And if he doesn't, then that just proves he was never good enough for you," David added.
"So how long are you guys taking a break from each other?" Tyler asked.
"We're not going to see each other until the wedding," Marcus answered.
"Really?" Jake asked. "That long?"
"Yeah," Marcus replied. "I don't know what I'm going to do."
"Listen to me," David said kneeling down to be face to face with Marcus, "You are one of the strongest people I know. You're the one who always keeps us together and keeps us in line. You'll be all right."
"Remember how weak I felt after Thomas?" Marcus asked.
"Yeah," David nodded.
"I feel like that all over again," Marcus sighed. "And I hate it."
"I'm sure you two will be okay," Tyler offered. "Just give him time to realize how perfect the two of you are together."
"I almost feel like giving up," Marcus said.
"Why?" Tyler asked.
"If him and I are perfect for each other then he shouldn't even have to consider being with either me or Justin," Marcus replied. "Right?"
"You have a point," David said.
"No," Tyler chided. "If a past love comes back, of course it's going to be weird and bring back old feelings, but just let him realize that the feelings he has for you are much stronger then the feelings he has for Justin."
"I hope so," Marcus said sadly.
"It'll be all right," David offered giving Marcus a hug. "You'll be fine."
That night Randal got home at around 11 PM. Stanley was already in bed reading a book.
"Hi," Randal said coming in the bedroom.
"Hi," Stanley replied glancing over quickly at Randal then went back to his book.
Randal went and got ready for bed, when he came back out of the bathroom Stanley was still reading, pretending to not notice Randal.
"Can we talk?" Randal asked.
"Are you ready to finally talk?" Stanley asked setting his book down.
"Look, I know you like to be with me a lot, but I'm so busy now that I can't have you around me all the time," Randal began.
"What?" Stanley asked incredulous.
"That's why you're upset right?" Randal asked.
"So you think it's my problem?" Stanley asked.
"Isn't it?" Randal asked not understanding.
"Unbelievable," Stanley said standing up out of bed.
"What?" Randal asked.
"The problem isn't me," Stanley shot back, "It's you!"
"How is it me?" Randal asked.
"You've become an asshole," Stanley said. "I don't know what's going on with you, but you've turned cold towards me."
"No I haven't," Randal replied defensively.
"Oh come on!" Stanley said.
"What is my problem then?" Randal asked. "Since you seem to be such the expert."
"Honestly, I think it's because of your niece," Stanley said.
"Don't you dare talk about her," Randal snapped.
Stanley looked at Randal stunned, realizing he hit a nerve.
"Look," Stanley said calming down, "It's just thank ever since Faith's miscarriage, you've been different.
I think that you're having trouble dealing with your grief and I wish you'd let me help you."
"I'm going to sleep in the living room," Randal said grabbing his pillow and a blanket.
"Randal," Stanley sighed, "Come on, we'll just sit and talk for a bit."
"Good night," Randal said walking out the door.
Stanley stood there and sighed, he realized that things might actually be starting to fall apart for the two of them.
Over at Tyler and Jake's place the two were lying in bed together and talking about the wedding.
"And I think you'll really like the clothes I got," Jake said.
"If you like them then I'll like them," Tyler said giving Jake a kiss.
"Thanks," Jake replied.
"So what else did you and Kyle do today?" Tyler asked.
"Well, that's something I wanted to talk to you about," Jake replied.
"What's that?" Tyler asked.
"Today when I was with Kyle," Jake began, "We ran into Miles."
"Oh?" Tyler asked.
"Yeah," Jake replied. "And thank God Kyle was there because I get so worried when Miles is around."
"Why's that?" Tyler asked.
"I'm just really scarred he's going to find a way to ruin this for us," Jake replied.
"I've been a little worried about it to," Tyler revealed.
"Yeah?" Jake asked.
"Yeah," Tyler replied. "I just really hope he stay away from us."
"Me too," Jake said. "This is supposed to be the happiest time for us and he's ruining it already by just making us worry."
"Well let's just not think about it anymore," Tyler said.
"I'm trying not to, but it's hard," Jake said. "You should have seen Kyle, he was pretty great."
"Yeah?" Tyler asked.
"Yeah, he was really icy and cold to Miles and then just got him and I out of Miles' presence right away," Jake replied.
"Way to go Kyle," Tyler laughed.
"We're really lucky to have such great friends," Jake said.
"We are," Tyler agreed. "And we're lucky to have each other."
"We are," Jake agreed.
"I love you so much," Tyler said.
"I love you too," Jake replied.
The two then began kissing and undressing each other.
Over at Marcus' house he was laying in bed by himself thinking about Trevor when his doorbell rang. He looked at the clock and then went to answer the door. He opened it up and was surprised to see Kyle and David standing there with pizza, ice cream, cookies, dvd's, beer and magazines in hand.
"What are you guys doing here?" Marcus asked. "What is all this?"
"This," Kyle said handing Marcus the cookies, "is some good old junk food for us and some movies to watch and magazines to read."
"And we're here because there is no chance in hell we're going to let you spend this night alone," David said giving Marcus a hug.
"You guys don't have to do this," Marcus said.
"We know," Kyle replied. "We're doing this because we want to."
"Besides, if you don't eat some of this junk food then Kyle and I are just going to eat it all and we'll get fat," David said.
"So we decided it would be better if all three of us got fat together," Kyle said.
Marcus looked at all the stuff that they set down on the dining room table and then up at Kyle and David, truly touched.
"Thanks you guys," Marcus said giving both of them a hug. "Love you."
"We love you too," Kyle said. "Now come on. Let's watch the movies."
Kyle grabbed the dvd's and headed into the living room.
"I got the beer," David said. "Grab the pizza Mar."
Marcus grabbed the pizza and followed the guys into the living room. The three spent the rest of the night eating, watching movies, laughing and just enjoying each others company which was something that Marcus really needed.
To Be Continued....
Thanks for being so patient and waiting for this. Hope you enjoyed. Any comments, questions, or feedback please e-mail me at ilj4ever44@yahoo.com. Thanks!