Phases

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 24 entitled "The Actor"

'The Actor'

Kurt arrived at 11 o'clock at the front gate of Gabriel Brocks' house. It was as beautiful as all the others in the neighborhood. Kurt was very impressed that Gabriel Brocks wasn't the type of celebrity to have to biggest house on the block, but rather be just like everyone else. No one could even tell it was celebrities house if it wasn't for the ten photographers waiting outside to try and get a picture of Gabriel. Kurt looked across the street at his mom's house and saw her car parked out front, after the interview he decided he would go and spend some time with her.

He waited a couple moments after he rang the intercom for a response.

"Who is it?" a voice asked.

"I'm Kurt Parker from West Coast Style here to interview Gabriel Brocks," Kurt replied.

"Perfect. Come on in," the voice replied as the gate automatically opened. Kurt walked up the drive way admiring the silver Bentley and the red Porsche sitting beautifully on the drive way. As he approached the front door Gabriel Brocks opened it up to greet Kurt.

"Nice to meet you Kurt," Gabriel said shaking his hand.

"Hi," Kurt replied. "Nice to meet you too." Kurt couldn't help but be a little star struck. Gabriel Brocks, 26 years old, was always good looking on the big screen and on television, but in person he was even better looking. Deep green eyes and a defining jaw line made his face one of the most beautiful things on the planet. His light brown hair was wavy and had a perfect, organized, messiness look that gave him the perfect 'movie star' look. He wore a very nice, but casual pair of jeans and a silk button up shirt.

"Well come on in," Gabriel said welcoming Kurt into his home. When Kurt walked in he was in awe of how beautiful the house was. Very modern with abstract art hanging through out the entry way. "Hope you found it here okay."

"Oh, it was easy," Kurt said. "My mom actually lives across the street."

"You're not talking about Monica are you?" Gabriel asked.

"Yeah, you know her?" Kurt asked.

"Yeah," Gabriel replied, "I see Monica all the time. She's a remarkable woman."

"Yes she is," Kurt agreed.

"You know, I thought I recognized you when I opened the door," Gabriel said, "I guess it's because of the millions of pictures she has of you in her house."

"She likes her pictures," Kurt said.

"Well it's great to meet you," Gabriel said. "Come on in. We can do the interview out by the pool."

They walked out into his backyard and sat by his pool.

He had an Olympic size swimming pool and a huge hot tub right next to it. They went over and sat on the deck that over saw the whole backyard.

"You're place is beautiful," Kurt said.

"Thank you," Gabriel replied. "So you're the son that Monica is always raving about huh?"

"Guilty," Kurt replied. "She doesn't rave about me that much does she?"

"Every chance she gets," Gabriel said.

"How embarrassing," Kurt groaned with a laugh. "That's moms for you."

"Not my mom," Gabriel replied.

"Oh really?" Kurt asked starting to take notes.

"Oh, would you mind if you didn't write about this?" Gabriel asked, "I don't like talking about my mom that much."

"Sorry," Kurt said setting his pad and pen down.

"She just didn't support my career," Gabriel replied. "And when I came out of the closet she just refused to acknowledge me at all."

"Sorry to hear that," Kurt said.

"Well, born and raised in a small town, so there's that small town mentality with her," Gabriel said. "So tell me about you. You must have some fun stories to tell growing up with a mom like Monica."

"I do, but I'm here to interview you," Kurt said.

"Okay, go ahead," Gabriel said sitting back in his chair.

"All right," Kurt said looking over his notes, "Well, you got your big start on the hit tv series 'Love & Lust' playing bad boy Luis Furlow which had a successful seven year run before making the seamlessly easy transition from TV to film. So why do you think it was so easy for you to make that transition?"

"It wasn't really a transition," Gabriel said, "While I was doing 'Love & Lust' I did films during the hiatus. So when we were done for the season I would go and shoot a film and then when I was done with that production would usually be starting again for the show. And when I did movies during that time I always made sure they were different from the character of Luis so that audiences got to see different sides of me."

"So now that you've played a 'good boy' character and a 'bad boy' character, which do you like to play?" Kurt asked.

"I like the 'bad boy.' They seem to get in the most juicy fun," Gabriel replied with a little wink.

"What was with the wink?" Kurt asked intrigued.

"Did I wink?" Gabriel asked playing dumb, "Must have been a spasm."

"I bet," Kurt replied, not believing him for a second.

He then went back to his questioning, "You came out of the closet in different situations then most celebrities do. You came out with out any speculation that you might be gay. What made you decide to go public with your sexuality?"

"It's who I am," Gabriel said, "It wasn't something I wanted to hide any more. My former manager said that it would ruin my career, but I told him that if I don't get roles because of my sexuality and not my talent then there's no point of me being in this business. I'm an actor and my sexuality should have nothing to do with that. I'm not ashamed of who I am as a person."

"Judging from the public majority rallying with you, it seems you've not lost any fans because of it," Kurt said.

"Well it's a different time now isn't it?" Gabriel asked, "I know I'm lucky to be able to come out and get support from people. It's not like the days of Rock Hudson where he had to hide from the world who he really was."

"So there wasn't a boyfriend or anyone who wanted you to go public with your relationship?" Kurt asked.

"Is that a question for the magazine or for you trying to find out if I'm single or not?" Gabriel asked smugly, yet charmingly.

"It's for the magazine," Kurt said trying to remain serious, but couldn't help but be charmed by him.

"Well, whoever it's for, no I'm not seeing anyone right now," Gabriel said, "It was purely my decision to come out. I actually decided to come out after talking with my neighbor."

"Oh really?" Kurt asked curious.

"Yeah, I was over having coffee with her one morning and talking with her and she was telling me about her son and his story about coming out of the closet," Gabriel said, "I guess it inspired me."

Kurt couldn't help but smile knowing that Gabriel was talking about him. But he didn't want to get too embarrassed so he quickly looked down at his notes.

"And you also just signed a contract with Public Image clothing to be the model for their new line of clothes for men," Kurt said reading over his notes, "And you also just signed on for a big budget epic film. Seems like if anything, coming out has only increased your popularity numbers."

"Yeah, I've been lucky," Gabriel replied. "And grateful to the fans for sticking by me."

"So any plans to celebrate your increased success?" Kurt asked.

"I plan on going to dinner with you tonight," Gabriel replied.

"Excuse me?" Kurt asked.

"You and me, dinner, tonight," Gabriel replied. "I'll pick you up at seven."

"What makes you think I'm interested?" Kurt asked intrigued.

"I noticed you checking my ass out when you got here," Gabriel joked.

"Someone's cocky," Kurt pointed out enjoying the little banter.

"No, just confident," Gabriel said, "So what do you say? Dinner tonight?"

While Kurt wasn't over Ryan he figured one date couldn't hurt. After all, Ryan did want him to move on right?

"Sure," Kurt replied.

"Excellent," Gabriel said.

"Now can we finish up the interview?" Kurt asked.

"Absolutely," Gabriel replied.

Meanwhile, Leo was on the way back to LA having just picked up Tristan from rehab. Leo had one hand on the wheel and the other holding Tristan's hand, wanting to be as close to him as possible.

"It feels so good to be out," Tristan said taking in the ocean coast line as they drove. "You forget there's this whole other world out here when you've been in there for so long."

"I know what you mean," Leo replied. "You have no idea how happy I am that you're out."

"Me too," Tristan said leaning over and giving Leo a kiss on the cheek.

"So do you want me to take you to your place first?" Leo asked.

"Do you think we can stop and get some lunch first?" Tristan asked.

"Absolutely," Leo replied. "I know a great place. You feel like sushi?"

"Sounds great," Tristan answered giving Leo's hand a kiss that he was holding. "Thank you again for picking me up."

"I'm glad to do it," Leo said. "So are you nervous at all being out?"

"Little bit," Tristan replied. "Were you?"

"A little bit," Leo replied. "But since you're here now I'm not anymore. The reason why I was so messed up was because I was so upset over Jesse, but you've given me something to get excited for again and something to feel passionate about again."

"I feel the same," Tristan replied. "I just worry that my friends are going to get me back into my old habits."

"Tristan, if these friends are going to tempt you then maybe you shouldn't be hanging around them right now," Leo said. "You just got out of rehab and all."

"I know, but I think I'll be okay," Tristan said, "Besides, you'll be there when I see them again right?"

Yeah," Leo replied, "Have you set something up with them yet?"

"No not yet," Tristan replied. "I'm going to give my friend Trisha a call later today and see when they want to meet up."

"Okay," Leo replied. "Well in the meantime lets go get something to eat and then take you to your place and then maybe I can give you a proper welcome back from rehab."

"Oh yeah?" Tristan asked with a smile.

"Oh yeah," Leo replied deviously.

"Maybe we should just skip lunch and just go to my place," Tristan said.

"You want?" Leo asked.

"Oh yeah," Tristan answered with an equally devilish smile.

"Lets hurry," Leo said speeding up a bit on the road.

Over at Nick's place he was at his computer answering letters for work when Luke came in from the kitchen with some lunch he made for the two of them.

"Lunch is served," Luke said setting down two plates of grilled chicken and steamed vegetables.

"Smells great," Nick said coming over and sitting at the table in the dining room with Luke.

"Thank you," Luke said pouring Nick a glass of wine, "Little something that my mom showed me how to cook."

"Your mom is a god-send," Nick said.

"I actually was talking to her in the kitchen while you were out here working," Luke said, "She invited us over for dinner tonight if you're interested. Or is it still too soon for that?"

"No, that sounds like fun," Nick said.

"Great," Luke said, "Susan and Drake are going to be there too."

"The kids?" Nick asked.

"All four girls too," Luke nodded.

"Chelsea is six now huh?" Nick asked.

"Yeah," Luke replied.

"Oh my God, I haven't seen her since she was three," Nick said.

"She's the cutest thing now," Luke said.

"I'm sure she is," Nick said, "All those girls are beautiful. Susan and Drake are lucky to have such a nice looking family."

"I know," Luke replied. "And it's good they have a lot of kids. Makes up for me not having any kids to please my mom."

"She want you to have kids still?" Nick asked.

"Of course," Luke replied. "She'll never get off that."

"Do you want kids still?" Nick asked. "I know we used to talk about it off and on, but I didn't know how serious you were about it."

"I love kids and someday I want some," Luke said, "But I know now's not a great time."

"You'd make a great father," Nick said, "You've always been so good with the girls."

"Well maybe," Luke said. "I do sometimes imagine having a little kid of my own. Someone to teach basketball too or something. How about you?"

"Do I want kids?" Nick asked.

"Yeah," Luke replied. "Is that something you ever think about?"

"I don't see myself with kids," Nick said.

"Really?" Luke asked. "You used to love the idea of being a dad."

"Yeah, but for the past couple of years I've dropped that idea," Nick said.

"Why?"

"I just don't see myself as a dad anymore," Nick said. "I love kids, but I don't think it's something for me."

"Do you think this is something we need to talk about?" Luke asked knowing that this can really effect their future together.

"No," Nick replied. "I don't think we need to worry about that now. It's still too early for that subject. Don't you think?"

"Yeah," Luke said, "I guess you're right."

The two changed the subjects and went back to eating, but the whole time Luke kept wondering what the future might hold for them if he wants kids and Nick doesn't.

Back at Gabriel's place, him and Kurt finished their interview and Kurt was getting ready to leave.

"Well thank you for today," Kurt said, "This will be one of our best issues. I can feel it."

"Thanks for the interview," Gabriel said, "And I should really thank your editor for sending you."

"You know, you are nothing like I thought you would be," Kurt said.

"Oh? And how did you think I would be?" Gabriel asked.

"Just different," Kurt said. "Don't know how to explain it."

"Was I better or worse then you imagined?" Gabriel asked.

"We'll see after tonight and I'll answer that question," Kurt said.

"Don't worry, I'm sure I can find a way to blow your mind," Gabriel joked.

Kurt laughed off the last comment, "I'll see you tonight."

"Definitely," Gabriel replied. "I will pick you up at seven."

"Sounds great," Kurt said.

"Have a very nice day Kurt Parker," Gabriel said.

"Bye," Kurt said, smiling back.

When Kurt left he went over to his mom's house to give her the update on everything. As he walked across the street he noticed her in the garden planting some flowers.

"Hey mom," Kurt called out as he made his way across the street and walked up the driveway.

"Hey sweetie," Monica said taking off her gardening gloves, she got up and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "This is a surprise. What are you doing here?"

"I just did my first feature interview for West Coast Style," Kurt said.

"You did? That's so great Kurt!" Monica enthused.

"Yeah, I just got done interviewing Gabriel Brocks," Kurt said.

"Isn't he a sweetie?" Monica asked, "I've loved having him as a neighbor."

"I didn't realize you two had become friends until I mentioned your name to him," Kurt said.

"Yeah, he stops over for a cup of coffee or he'll invite me over for dinner and we just talk," Monica said, "He's such a sweet boy."

"He asked me out for tonight," Kurt said.

"You're kidding!" Monica jumped up and down, "I've been telling him so much about you. Ever since Ryan left I was trying to get him to ask you out."

"Ryan's back," Kurt said.

"He is?" Monica asked, "When did this happen?"

"Couple days ago," Kurt replied. "He came back."

"That's good, isn't it?" Monica asked noticing that Kurt wasn't acting very happy about it.

"He wants to be single for a while until he gets settled back here," Kurt replied.

"That's understandable," Monica said.

"I know, but he told me that I should date and see other people," Kurt said, "He doesn't want me waiting around for him."

"Well that was very considerate of him," Monica said, "And you should, and Gabriel would be a great guy to go out with."

"You think?" Kurt asked.

"Yeah, he's kind, and very charming," Monica said.

"Oh yes, he's very charming," Kurt agreed.

"Well come inside and we'll have some lunch," Monica said.

"Sounds good," Kurt answered as him and Monica made their way inside the house.

Later that day Leo and Tristan were at Tristan's place and laying in Tristan's bed together after just having sex.

"Wow," Leo said. "That was-"

"Yeah, wow," Tristan continued. "I agree."

"I guess considering you and I haven't had any in months that it makes it more, wow," Leo said.

"There was a real connection between us," Tristan said.

"Yeah," Leo agreed, "It was amazing."

Tristan leaned over and tenderly kissed Leo holding him tightly to him.

"It was great," Tristan said.

"Couldn't agree more."

"I know we aren't really supposed to be dating or having sex or any of that, but I think we'll be able to handle it. Don't you?" Tristan asked.

"Yeah," Leo replied. "I mean they just advised us we shouldn't. They didn't say it was against the rules."

"Exactly," Tristan said.

"You want to do it again?" Leo asked.

"Oh you know it!" Tristan said as he grabbed the covers to the bed and pulled it over them to have some more fun.

Before they could get back into the fun though, Tristan's phone rang.

"Dammit," Tristan said. "I'll let the machine get it."

"No, it may be your parents," Leo said. "Go answer it.

It's fine."

"All right," Tristan said, "I'll be quick."

Tristan hurried out of bed and grabbed the phone.

"Hello?" Tristan answered.

"Tristan, it's Trisha."

"Hey Trisha," Tristan said.

"Welcome back to the real world," Trisha said. "I'm sure it was awful in rehab."

"It wasn't too bad," Tristan replied. "Do you think I can call you later?"

"I'll be quick," Trisha said. "There's a party going on at Shawn's house. We all want to see you."

"A party?" Tristan asked worried.

"It's not really a party," Trisha said, "Just some of us all hanging out. Come on, we miss you."

"All right, I'll see," Tristan said, "I'll call you later."

"Great, talk to you later," Trisha said hanging up.

Tristan went back into the bedroom and climbed into bed with Leo.

"That was my friend Trisha," Tristan said, "Do you want to go to a little get together tonight?"

"If you want to," Leo said.

"Great," Tristan said, "I'll need you there with me."

"Of course," Leo said kissing Tristan, "Now where were we?"

Tristan and Leo then resumed their earlier, fun activity.

That afternoon Nick was getting dressed to go over to Luke's parents place.

"Do you think I should wear long or short sleeves?" Nick asked.

"So you really don't want to have kids?" Luke asked ignoring Nick's question.

"Are we back on this?" Nick asked. "Why is it a big deal right now? We just got back together."

"I know, but don't you think this is still something we should discuss?" Luke asked.

"Why?" Nick asked, "We have a long time before we're close to discussing that."

"Are you ruling kids out completely?" Luke asked.

"Dammit Luke," Nick said frustrated, "The important decision I want to make right now is whether to wear a long or short sleeve shirt, not whether I want to have kids someday."

"But you are saying no to the idea of kids," Luke sensed.

"Drop it for now Luke," Nick said grabbing a short sleeve collared shirt and putting it on. "Lets just go."

"Fine," Luke sighed.

Over at Monica's house, Kurt and her were still sitting in the kitchen talking about everything that has been going on. Mostly about Ryan.

"I just miss him," Kurt said.

"Well sweetie, you can't force things," Monica said. "If Ryan's for you then you two will find each other again. But you should give this a shot with Gabriel. You two may end up having a lot in common."

"I don't see how I could possibly have a lot in common with a movie star," Kurt pointed out.

"Sure being an actor may be his profession, but that's not who he is as a person," Monica said. "What time is your date with him?"

"Seven," Kurt replied.

Monica looked at her watch, "Kurt, it's six o'clock now."

"What!?" Kurt asked not realizing the time, "Crap, I have to go and get ready mom. I'll call you later. Love you."

"Love you too," Monica called out as Kurt rushed out of the house to get back to his place to change. As he was rushing down the drive way to his car Gabriel was outside grabbing some mail. All the photographers had left his house so it was the only safe time for him to really emerge from inside.

"Hey Kurt Parker," Gabriel called out from across the street. "What are you doing? You know we have a date in an hour?"

"I know, I didn't realize the time," Kurt called out, "I'll be ready on time."

"All right," Gabriel smiled, "I'll see you in a bit."

"Bye," Kurt waved as he drove off to get back to his place. Gabriel watched Kurt drive away and just smiled.

"That is one cute guy," Gabriel said to himself.

"Hey Gab," Monica called out from her front door.

"Good evening Monica," Gabriel replied.

"I heard you have a hot date tonight," Monica said.

"That I do," Gabriel replied crossing the street and going up to Monica to give her a hug. "You have quite a remarkable son."

"That's my pride and joy," Monica replied.

"So do you have any advice for me tonight?" Gabriel asked.

"Give him some time to really warm up to you," Monica said. "He's had a hectic year."

"What should I do?" Gabriel asked.

"Just be there for him," Monica advised, "Be the charmer you always are. Show him a good time. He's a big romantic at heart."

"I'll keep that in mind," Gabriel said. "Thanks Monica."

"Your welcome Gab," Monica replied. "So I'll see you tomorrow?"

"Yeah, I'll stop by tomorrow morning with some coffee and tell you how it went," Gabriel said.

"I'll see you then," Monica said giving Gabriel a hug goodbye.

That night, Nick and Luke had a quiet ride over to his parents' place. When they got there they sat in the car for a bit.

"All right," Nick said, "Now can we not talk anymore about kids tonight?"

"Yeah, that's fine," Luke said. "Just as long as you know that eventually we're going to have to talk about this."

"Yeah well eventually isn't going to be anytime soon," Nick said, "Now lets just go and have a nice evening with your family."

"Okay," Luke said. The two got out of the car and went inside of Luke's parents' house.

"Luke!" Beverly, Luke's mom, called out when Luke and Nick came in. "Finally you're here."

"Hey mom," Luke said giving his mom a hug.

"Hey Beverly," Nick said.

"Nick! It's so good seeing you again sweetie," Beverly said giving Nick a big hug, "We've missed you."

"Missed you too," Nick replied.

"Where's Carl?" Beverly called out.

"He's finishing up the barbeque," Susan, Luke's sister, said entering. Susan was naturally beautiful and was very petite with the exception of her very pregnant stomach. "Hey Nick."

"Hey Susan," Nick said giving her a kiss on the cheek, "Luke was telling me you were expecting another one."

"Yeah, this will be daughter number five," Susan replied. She then went and gave Luke a hug.

"Where's Drake?" Luke asked.

"He's outside with dad at the barbeque," Susan said. "Why don't you two go out there and say hi. Do you want anything to drink?"

"Can you get me a beer?" Luke asked.

"Yeah," Susan replied, "What do you want Nick?"

"Beer would be great, thanks Susan," Nick replied.

"I'm so happy to have my two favorite boys here," Beverly said putting her arms around Nick and Luke. "You have no idea how happy I am that you two are back together."

"She was practically throwing a party in your guys' honor," Susan joked.

"Hey, can't I be happy to see Luke back with the perfect guy?" Beverly.

"I wouldn't go as far as perfect," Nick said blushing.

"I would," Beverly said, "Listen Nick, I never saw Luke happier with anyone in his life as he was when he was with you."

"Okay mom, enough," Luke said embarrassed. "We're going to go say hi to dad."

"All right," Beverly replied. "Susan and I will be in the kitchen."

"Okay, we'll be there in a bit," Luke said taking Nick's hand and leading him outside to the backyard.

"Your mom is still sweet as ever," Nick commented.

"She loves you to death," Luke said, "You're practically family."

The two then went outside to the barbeque where Luke's dad, Carl was standing with Luke's brother-in-law, Drake. Carl was essentially an older version of Luke, the two looked so much alike, while Drake was a bit on the heavier side, from the years of looking after his daughters it didn't give him much time for himself to go to the gym.

"Hey fellas," Luke said approaching them.

"Hey son," Carl said giving Luke a hug, he then looked up and spotted Nick, "There's my other boy! Come here give me a hug Nick."

"How you doing Carl?" Nick asked giving Carl a hug.

"Great," Carl replied. "It's so great having you here again."

"It's great being here again with all of you," Nick said.

"Great seeing you again Nick," Drake said giving Nick a hug.

"Where are the rugrats?" Luke asked.

"The girls are upstairs in your old room," Drake said, "I think they're jumping on your bed."

"I'm going to go see them," Luke said, "You want to come up Nick or do you want stay down here?"

"I think I'll stay and talk with Carl and Drake for a bit," Nick said. "I'll be up in a minute."

"Okay," Luke said as he headed inside.

"So what's been going on with you?" Carl asked.

"Just been keeping busy with work," Nick said, "And then some stuff had been going on with my friend, Leo, but that's all worked out now."

"I have to admit, ever since you and Nick split up I've been reading your column just to keep up on how you're doing," Carl said.

"Aw, thanks Carl," Nick said patting him on the back, "That means a lot."

"So you two are working everything out all right?" Carl asked.

"Yeah," Nick said, "There's still some things we need to sort out, but for the most part I think we're back to being pretty solid."

"Great," Carl said, "I really hope it works out this time."

"Me too," Nick said.

At around 6:50 PM, Kurt rushed into the apartment passed Leo and Tristan who just arrived there about a half hour before so Leo could get dressed to go out with Tristan and his friends.

"Where's the fire?" Leo asked noting how quickly Kurt came in.

"I have to get dressed," Kurt replied. "I have a date."

"With Ryan?" Leo wondered.

"No, with Gabriel," Kurt replied.

"Whoa! What?" Leo asked. "You're going out with Gabriel Brocks?"

"Kurt's dating a celebrity?" Tristan asked.

"Yes, I'm going out with Gabriel Brocks and no, we're not dating," Kurt said answering both their questions, "This is the first date. I have no idea where it's going to go after this."

"I can't believe this," Leo said impressed, "My best friend is dating a movie star."

"I told you, we're not dating," Kurt yelled from his room as he was getting dressed, "It's just one date."

"So I take it the interview today went well," Leo said.

"Yes it went well," Kurt replied. "What are you two up to tonight?"

"Going to see some of Tristan's friends," Leo replied.

"Oh great," Kurt said, "Oh, sorry I just walked right passed you Tristan, I'll come give you a hug in a second."

"It's cool," Tristan replied. "You have a big date with a celebrity, that takes priority."

"Okay, how do I look?" Kurt asked coming out of his room wearing a pair of dark denim jeans and a pale green shirt.

"Look great," Leo said, "You going to wear the leather jacket you just got?"

"Yeah," Kurt replied. He then went and gave Tristan a hug, "Congrats for making it successfully through rehab."

"Thanks," Tristan replied.

Before they could talk anymore there was a knock on the door.

"Is that him?" Leo asked Kurt.

"Probably," Kurt replied. He went and opened the door to Gabriel, who was even better looking then he remembered him being earlier.

"Hey," Gabriel said with his sweet smile, "Long time no see."

"Yeah," Kurt said, "Do you want to come in for a minute?"

"Sure," Gabriel said walking inside.

"Oh my God," Leo gushed seeing Gabriel walk through the door. "Hi, I'm Leo. Kurt's best friend."

"Hey nice to meet you," Gabriel said shaking Leo's hand.

"This is my boyfriend, Tristan," Leo introduced.

"Hey, nice to meet you too," Gabriel said.

"Hi," Tristan replied, star-struck.

Leo and Tristan both looked at Gabriel in complete awe, making the room very quiet, awkwardly so.

"All right, maybe that's long enough for being here," Kurt said, "Ready to go?"

"Yeah," Gabriel said as they headed for the door, "It was nice meeting you two."

The two couldn't say anything, they just waved.

"Okay," Kurt said getting Gabriel out the door, before he closed it behind him he shot the two of them a glare, "Way to play it cool."

When Kurt and Gabriel got inside Gabriel's Porsche, Kurt couldn't help but feel embarrassed for how Leo and Tristan acted.

"Sorry about my friends up there," Kurt said, "I'm sure you get enough of that in your daily life."

"It's fine," Gabriel said, "They seem really nice."

"How could you tell?" Kurt asked, "They just stood there with goofy smiles on their faces."

"I've gotten a lot of those faces through my career," Gabriel said, "I can tell the nice ones from the bad ones."

"I'm surprised Leo got so star-struck," Kurt said, "Considering he wants to be an actor and all."

"He does?" Gabriel asked, "Has he ever done any work?"

"Just a few plays," Kurt replied, "It kind of all went on hold when his last boyfriend got in a car accident and fell into a coma. He then became an alcoholic and then got in another car accident and then had to go to rehab and I realize I'm rambling so I'm going to stop now."

"You're fine," Gabriel said putting his hand over Kurt's and giving it a little squeeze, "It's kind of cute."

Kurt smiled, truly smitten by Gabriel, "So where are we going?"

"I am going to take you to the restaurant I own," Gabriel said.

"Wow," Kurt said, "I've been trying to get reservations there for months. It's always booked."

"Well, I was able to squeeze us in for tonight," Gabriel replied. "So, you interviewed me earlier today, would you mind if interview you?"

"It depends," Kurt said, "What sort of questions are you going to be asking me?"

"Would you mind telling me a little bit about you?" Gabriel asked. He then acted like one of those many interviews he's had to deal with in his life, "Who is Kurt Parker?"

"Well, there's not much to really say," Kurt said, "I've lived here in Los Angeles my whole life. I have two best friends who I'm with most of the time, been working at West Coast Style for a few months now and am currently on a date with one of the biggest movie stars in the industry."

"There's got to be more to your life then that," Gabriel sensed, "Give me the true dirt on your life."

"Not on the first date," Kurt replied.

"Is that implying that you might want a second date?" Gabriel asked.

"The night's young," Kurt said, "We'll see how it goes."

"Then I better not disappoint you cause I have many more dates planned for you and me," Gabriel said.

"Many dates?" Kurt asked, "How can you tell so soon?"

"I told you, I have good instincts about people," Gabriel said, "I have a very good instinct about you."

"Oh yeah?" Kurt asked, "And what's your instinct telling you about me?"

"You're a very caring person, and would do anything for the ones you love," Gabriel began, "You're a romantic, but circumstances in life have made you cynical. And it seems to me like you're afraid to let people into your life and get too close. Maybe because you've had others leave that you wanted to stay?"

"You got all that from our interaction during the interview today?" Kurt asked.

"Am I wrong?" Gabriel asked.

"No, you're right on," Kurt replied.

"Which means that it's going to be a challenge for me to find a way to get you to let me in," Gabriel said.

"You up for the challenge?" Kurt asked.

"Bring it on," Gabriel replied.

Meanwhile, back over at Luke's parents' place. Nick went up to Luke's old room to see Luke and the girls. He stopped at the door when he saw the scene going on.

Luke was in the center of the room on the floor with all three girls jumping on top of him and playing with him.

"Get him!" the youngest girl, Chelsea, squealed as she was tickling him.

"I'll get you!" Luke mock shouted grabbing Chelsea and lifting her up in the air as she screamed and laughed.

"We'll save you Chelsea!" Lily, the oldest one, said in her super-hero impression as she jumped on top of Luke. The middle girl, Farrah, was sitting by Luke's head messing his hair up and giggling.

Nick leaned against the door frame and smiled to himself as he watched Luke playing with the girls. He forgot how good Luke was with kids, it came so natural to him. The sight of it melted Nick's heart.

"Oh hey," Luke said spotting Nick, "Look who it is girls! Remember Nick?"

"Nick!" Lily shouted running up and jumping into Nick's arms. She was the only one who really remembered him, the other two were too young to remember, but seeing their big sister jump into Nick's arms was enough proof they needed to know that he was someone they could play with as well. The other two followed and jumped up on Nick causing him to fall to his knees.

"Get both of them!" Farrah shouted as she jumped on Nick. Lily and Chelsea then went and grabbed Luke shoving the two of them together so they were leaning up against one another and the three proceeded to jump and play with them.

Later that night Tristan and Leo arrived at his friend, Shawn's, house. When they walked inside there were tons of people there, this wasn't a little get together, this was a full on party. Right inside the door they noticed people sitting in the living room smoking weed, while almost everyone had some form of alcohol in their hand.

"I don't think this is a good idea Tristan," Leo said.

"It'll be okay," Tristan replied, "Come on."

Tristan took Leo's hand and led him through the house.

They made their way into the kitchen where his friends, Trisha, Shawn, Gary, and Hilary were standing playing drinking games.

"Tristan!" Trisha called out, clearly drunk as she went and gave him a big hug. Leo took a moment to observe Trisha's lack of clothing, she was wearing a top that didn't leave much to the imagination, and a tight mini skirt with a pair of stiletto heels. "Guys, it's Tristan!"

"Hey guys," Tristan said waving to all of them.

"Tristan!" They all called out.

"This is my boyfriend, Leo," Tristan introduced.

"Leo!" they all shouted again in unison.

"Hi," Leo said.

"Help yourselves to drinks," Shawn said pointing to the bar.

"I'm good, thanks," Leo said uncomfortably.

"Come on Tristan, celebrate," Shawn said, "You finally got out of that stupid place. Now you can have fun again."

"Naw, I'm good," Tristan said, "I don't drink anymore."

"Don't tell me that place changed you?" Gary asked, "Dude, what the hell? You're so much fun when your drunk."

"It wasn't good for me man," Tristan said.

"Well come on," Gary said putting his arm around Tristan and heading him to the living room, "You at least have to smoke out with me."

Leo couldn't hear Tristan's response as they left the kitchen. Leo was going to follow them, but Trisha stopped him.

"So, you're Tristan's new boy huh?" Trisha asked.

"Yeah," Leo replied.

"Well let me tell you," Trisha said, "No one is more fun then Tristan. Once you get a few drinks in him, he'll be upstairs with you and maybe two other guys and you'll have the best group sex of your life!"

"Great," Leo said through gritted teeth, "Will you excuse me?"

Leo then left the kitchen and found the bathroom where he quickly went in and locked the door. He took some time to calm down a little, clearly very uncomfortable and shaken up by being at a place where alcohol is all around. He needed to get out of here. Leo walked out of the bathroom and made his way to the living room to get Tristan. When he walked in he saw Tristan standing with Shawn holding a joint in his hand. Tristan saw Leo and saw the look of disappointment on Leo's face.

"I'm going to go," Leo said passing right by Tristan and making his way out the door. He was headed down the drive way towards his car when Tristan ran and caught up to him.

"Wait, wait," Tristan said, "That wasn't how it looked."

"Then what was it?" Leo asked.

"I didn't smoke it," Tristan replied, "They handed it to me and I was going to give it back when you came in."

"Well you know what? It doesn't matter," Leo said, "Maybe we're just in different places."

"What are you talking about?" Tristan asked.

"How could you bring me to a party like this?" Leo asked, "A party with alcohol everywhere. Did you not consider my feelings for a second?"

"I'm sorry, you're right," Tristan said feeling horrible.

"You could go ahead and piss away all the work you did in rehab, but I'm not going to," Leo said beginning to get into his car.

"Leo wait," Tristan said grabbing him, "I'm sorry. You're right. I'm sorry. It was completely selfish of me to bring you here and we never should have come here in the first place."

"Then why did we?" Leo asked.

"I wanted to prove to myself that I could be in a place like that and not blow it," Tristan said.

"Well congratulations, you succeeded," Leo said, "Now you can go ahead and continue to party with them, but I'm going home."

"Can I come with you?" Tristan asked, "Please? I'm sorry. The only reason why I was able to be in there and not do anything was because you were there. You were the reason why I was able to say no to them."

"Tristan, you just got out of rehab," Leo said, "You can't just expect to get out of rehab and be immune to alcohol and drugs. It takes work."

"I know," Tristan said, "But I'm hoping that as long as your with me, it won't be so hard to stay away from them. I'm so sorry Leo."

Tristan wrapped his arms around Leo truly sorry for causing Leo to be in an environment like that.

"You're right though," Tristan continued, "Being around people like that is not good for me."

"Yeah, it's not," Leo said. "Come on. Lets go to my place."

"Thank you," Tristan said as the two got into Leo's car and drove off.

That night after dinner, Luke and Nick said goodbye to Luke's family and headed back to Luke's place.

"Did you have fun tonight?" Luke asked.

"Yeah," Nick replied, "A lot of fun."

"Good," Luke said, "You still mad at me for bringing up the whole kids thing?"

"No," Nick said, "Actually I wanted to talk to you about that."

"You did?" Luke asked, "I thought you said it was too soon to be talking about that."

"It is," Nick said, "But I just wanted you to know that when we do eventually have that conversation, I want you to know that I won't completely rule out the idea of having kids one day."

"Yeah?" Luke asked, "What brought about the change?"

"You," Nick said, "I saw you playing with the girls and just knew, you were meant to be a father."

Luke smiled, "Thanks Nick. This means a lot."

Nick just smiled, and reached over and took hold of Luke's hand.

After Kurt and Gabriel left the restaurant they were taking a walk along the beach together.

"It's weird," Kurt noticed, "I haven't seen anyone on this beach."

"I own this little strip of beach property here," Gabriel said, "That's why."

"Oh, of course you do," Kurt laughed.

"So have you had a good time tonight?" Gabriel asked taking Kurt's hand.

"I have," Kurt replied. "Wasn't really planning on it, but I had a good time."

"You didn't think you'd have a good time?" Gabriel asked. "Why's that?"

"Pretty much for the reasons you said," Kurt said, "I don't let people in easily. Especially lately."

"Care to tell me why?" Gabriel asked.

"Lets just say that I have a history of important people in my life leaving me," Kurt replied. "I guess it all goes back to my dad."

"I see," Gabriel said. "Well, if it's all right with you. I don't plan on going anywhere any time soon. I'd like to see where we can go from here."

"Me too," Kurt replied.

"So, you said you'd answer my question from earlier today," Gabriel said.

"What question is that?" Kurt asked.

"Was I better or worse than you imagined?" Gabriel asked. But before he could answer, Gabriel leaned in and gently kissed Kurt on the lips.

"Better," Kurt replied, "Much better."

"Good," Gabriel said relieved as he began to kiss Kurt again.

To Be Continued...

With any comments, questions or feedback please e-mail me at ilj4ever44@yahoo.com Thanks so much!