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 27, hope you are enjoying where this story is going! Here's part 27 entitled "Awaken"

'AWAKEN'

"Jesse, you're awake," Leo said in shock.

"You know who I am?" Jesse asked looking blankly at Leo.

"Of course I do," Leo said. "It's me, Leo."

"Is that why this place looks so familiar?" Jesse asked, "Because of you?"

"You don't remember me?" Leo asked.

"No, I'm sorry," Jesse said, "Things are really hazy right now."

"Oh of course," Leo replied. "When did you wake up?"

"You knew I was in a coma?" Jesse asked.

"Yeah," Leo replied.

"I woke up last week," Jesse said. "I've been staying with my parents. Do you know them?"

"Yeah I do," Leo replied. "Do you want me to take you back to your parents' place?"

"Thanks," Jesse said, "That would be great."

"I can't believe you're awake," Leo said truly amazed that Jesse was standing in front of him. He wanted to give Jesse a big hug, but since he didn't know who he was he didn't want to scare him. "Come on, lets get you back home."

"Wait, how am I so sure you know who I am?" Jesse asked unsure.

"Your name is Jesse Waters, your parents are Darryl and Helen," Leo replied. Leo then took out his wallet and pulled out a picture he had of him and Jesse together. In the picture they had their arms around each other and were laughing together. He handed the picture to Jesse.

"Oh," Jesse said looking at the picture in confusion, "I guess I do know you."

"Yeah," Leo replied. "You know me pretty well."

Leo then led Jesse to his car to take him home.

"Do you know where my parents live?" Jesse asked.

"Yeah," Leo replied. "I know."

The two then slowly drove off together, the whole time Leo was in disbelief that Jesse was there with him.

At Nick's place he was sitting at the kitchen table with Luke discussing Wayne.

"What does he mean that it's not over?" Nick asked. "Is he going to keep showing up in our lives?"

"I don't know," Luke replied. "But I'll make sure he doesn't bug you."

"How?" Nick asked, "Just the idea of him being anywhere around us bugs me."

"Nick, don't worry about it," Luke said. "I'll take care of it."

"What does that mean?" Nick asked.

"It means that I'll talk to him and tell him to leave us alone," Luke replied.

"And if he doesn't?" Nick asked. "If he's determined to get you back then he's not going to stop at just you telling him to stay away."

"I'll figure something out," Luke promised giving Nick a kiss.

"I just don't want him to ruin what we've worked hard to get back," Nick said.

"Me neither," Luke said. "That's the last thing I want."

Before they could continue any further Nick's cell phone started ringing, he looked at the caller ID and saw it was Leo.

"Hey Leo," Nick answered.

"I need you to get to Jesse's parents' house," Leo said quietly into the phone.

"Why?" Nick asked.

"He's awake," Leo replied looking over at Jesse who was sitting next to him in the passenger seat of the car.

"He's awake?" Nick asked in shock.

"Yeah, call Kurt and get over there please," Leo said before hanging up.

When Leo hung up the phone Nick quickly went to call up Kurt.

"What's wrong?" Luke asked.

"Nothing's wrong," Nick said, "In fact something really good just happened."

"Nick can I call you back later?" Kurt asked picking up the phone. He was laying in bed with Gabriel.

"No, you need to get to Helen and Darryl's place," Nick said.

"Why?" Kurt asked.

"Jesse is awake," Nick replied.

"I'll be right there," Kurt said, that was all he needed to hear. Kurt then hung up the phone and got out of bed to start and put his clothes back on.

"What's wrong?" Gabriel asked.

"My friend woke up from his coma," Kurt replied. "He's been in a coma for months now. We didn't think he was going to wake up."

"Oh my God," Gabriel said, "That's great."

"Yeah," Kurt said. "I have to hurry. Would you mind taking me there?"

"Not at all." Gabriel said getting up to get dressed.

"Thank you," Kurt said.

When Leo and Jesse got to his parents' place Darryl and Helen quickly raced outside.

"Jesse where have you been?" Helen asked worried sick. "Don't just sneak out like that."

"Leo!" Darryl said in surprise, "How did you find Jesse?"

"I didn't," Leo replied. "He found me. He showed up at the Gay and Lesbian Center I work at."

"Thank you for bringing him back Leo," Helen said giving him a hug, "I'm sure you have a lot of questions. Why don't you come inside?"

"Okay," Leo replied. "Nick and Kurt are on their way over. I'm sorry I just told them to come here, but I was just really shocked to see Jesse."

"It's fine," Darryl said giving Leo a hug. "Come on inside and we'll explain everything."

When they got inside the house Jesse went up to his room to rest.

"Why didn't you guys call me?" Leo asked.

"We wanted to sweetie," Helen said. "But when we found out he didn't remember much we thought it was best to let him regain his memory before he saw you. I thought it might be hard for you to see him and him not have any memory of you."

"All he can remember is up until he graduated high school," Darryl explained. "He doesn't remember anything after that."

"Is it permanent?" Leo asked.

"The doctors aren't sure," Helen said. "They said he could regain full memory, partial memory, or not remember it at all."

"So he may not ever remember him and I being together?" Leo asked sadly.

"No sweetie," Helen said compassionately, "I'm sorry."

The three took a moment to absorb the fact that Jesse may never remember Leo. An urgent knock on the door however, quickly broke the silence. Darryl opened the door to let in Nick, Kurt and Gabriel.

"Hey," Nick said giving Darryl and Helen a hug.

"Hey boys," Helen said, "Oh my God, Gabriel Brocks?"

"Yeah, this is my boyfriend," Kurt introduced them.

"Nice to meet you guys," Gabriel said, "I'm glad to hear that your son woke up."

"Thank you," Darryl said.

"How is he?" Nick asked.

"He has partial memory loss," Leo said. "He doesn't remember me."

"He doesn't?" Nick asked.

"No," Leo shook his head.

"I'm so sorry," Kurt said giving Leo a hug.

"So that was actually him you saw earlier today?" Nick asked.

"I think so," Leo replied.

"I'm still kind of confused how he ended up at the Gay and Lesbian Center," Nick said. "He didn't know of that place until Leo started volunteering there."

"That's true," Kurt said. "So maybe he will get his memory back."

"We can be hopeful," Darryl said. "But I don't want you guys to get your hopes up. Worst comes to worse Leo will just have to reintroduce himself into Jesse's life. Start over."

"That wouldn't be too bad, right?" Nick asked.

"It would," Leo said. "He wouldn't remember all that we've been through."

"I know, but this way you can start fresh with him," Kurt said.

"Can I go talk to him?" Leo asked.

"Of course," Helen said.

Leo then went up the stairs to Jesse's bedroom while the rest of them stayed downstairs in the living room.

"Sorry Gabriel, I know this isn't the most pleasant place to be right now," Helen apologized.

"No, don't apologize for anything," Gabriel said, "I know it's horrible that he can't remember a lot of stuff, but at least he's awake right? Kurt was telling me that there was little hope of him recovering."

"Yeah and for that we are ever grateful," Helen said.

"How are you two doing?" Darryl asked Kurt and Nick, "I know this affects you two with Jesse not remembering you guys either."

"I really don't even want to think about that right now," Kurt replied. "He was a great friend and I hate that he can't remember, but hopefully we can help him get it back."

"We'll do everything we can," Nick promised.

"You boys are so sweet," Helen said, "You have a good boyfriend Gabriel."

"The best," Gabriel replied giving Kurt a kiss on the forehead.

Meanwhile, when Leo got to the bedroom he knocked lightly on Jesse's door.

"Jesse, it's Leo. Can I come in?" Leo asked.

"Sure," Jesse replied.

When Leo walked in he found Jesse sitting on his bed with his legs tucked up again his chest.

"How you doing?" Leo asked.

"I'm confused," Jesse replied. "And frustrated."

"Do you want to talk about it?" Leo asked sitting down on the edge of the bed.

"Are you someone I would usually talk about these sort of things with?" Jesse asked.

"Yeah," Leo replied. "We would talk about everything."

"I see," Jesse sighed.

"Jesse, can I ask you a question?" Leo asked.

"Sure," Jesse replied.

"Why were you at the Gay and Lesbian Center today?" Leo asked.

"Honestly, I don't know," Jesse replied. "I wanted to get out for a bit so I went for a walk this morning and when I walked by there I just felt like there was something in there that could comfort me in some way. I guess you can say I was drawn there. So I went in earlier today, but didn't see anything or anyone that would be familiar. Then on my way out I saw a sign talking about that event tonight so I left and came back and that's when I saw you. I don't know who you are or why I feel this way, but I just felt comforted when I saw you. Does that sound crazy?"

"No, not at all," Leo replied.

"Really?" Jesse asked.

"Yeah," Leo replied. "We were really close."

"How close?" Jesse asked.

"What would you say if I told you that we used to date?" Leo asked

"I guess that would make a lot of sense," Jesse replied.

"I just wish you could remember," Leo sighed.

"Me too," Jesse replied.

"Well I'll let you get some rest," Leo said getting up. "Is it all right if I come and see you tomorrow?"

"Yeah, that's fine," Jesse replied.

"All right," Leo said. "I'll see you then."

"Bye," Jesse said.

Leo then left the room and rejoined the group downstairs.

"You okay?" Nick asked.

"Yeah," Leo replied. "He's awake. That's the most important thing. I'm going to come by tomorrow and see him. I hope that's okay."

"Of course," Darryl said, "Come by whenever you want."

"Thanks," Leo said.

"We'll get going," Nick said, "It's getting late. We'll see you soon."

They all said their goodbyes and then headed off. On the way to the car Leo just broke down and started crying. Nick and Kurt quickly did their best to comfort him.

"Hey, it's going to be okay," Nick said, "I'm sure of it."

"Yeah," Kurt said, "Come on. Let's go home and we can talk about it."

"Luke's at my place right now so I should get back to him, but I'll come by first thing in the morning," Nick said.

"Okay," Leo managed to get out through the tears.

"Gab, I think I should go home with Leo tonight," Kurt said.

"I completely understand," Gabriel said giving Kurt a hug, "Call me if you need anything."

"I will," Kurt said giving Gabriel a kiss, "Thank you for being so understanding. I love you."

"I love you too," Gabriel replied. "You going to be okay Leo?"

"Yeah," Leo said wiping the tears from his face, "Thanks Gabriel."

"I'll see you guys later," Gabriel said heading to his car.

"Wait Gab," Kurt said hurrying over to Gabriel and giving him another big hug and kiss.

"What was that for?" Gabriel asked.

"For being so great," Kurt replied. "I feel bad for leaving you tonight. It was supposed to be our night and all."

"Kurt, we'll have plenty more nights together," Gabriel said, "Leo really needs you tonight so you're exactly where you should be."

"Thank you," Kurt said falling more in love with Gabriel, "I love you so much."

"I love you too," Gabriel said. "Now remember, if you guys need anything tonight just call me. It doesn't matter what time it is."

"Thank you," Kurt said giving him a kiss goodbye.

"I'll call you tomorrow if I don't hear from you before then," Gabriel said as he got into his car.

"Good night," Kurt said as Gabriel started his car. When Gabriel drove away Kurt re-joined Leo and Nick.

"Sorry to ruin your night Kurt," Leo said.

"Leo, it's fine," Kurt replied. "Come on. Let's go home. I'll cook us some food and we can just talk okay?"

"Okay," Leo nodded. "Thanks."

That night when Nick got back to his place Luke had a cup of tea waiting for him.

"Hey, is everything all right?" Luke asked.

"Yeah," Nick replied.

"So how's Leo doing?" Luke asked.

"He's hanging in there," Nick replied. "Jesse doesn't remember who he is."

"That's too bad," Luke sighed, "How are you?"

"I'm okay," Nick said, "The important thing is that Jesse is awake."

"Exactly," Luke said. "That's great."

"I just hope that he gets his memory back," Nick said, "I know that it's going to kill Leo if he doesn't."

"Poor Leo," Luke sighed.

"You're very compassionate about a guy who won't give you the time of day," Nick said impressed at how Luke won't say anything negative against Leo despite the fact that Leo has been so cold to him.

"I still care a lot about Leo, no matter what his feelings for me are right now," Luke said.

"You're a good person," Nick said giving Luke a kiss. "I love you."

"I love you too," Luke replied.

Over at Kurt and Leo's place the two were in the living room. Kurt had put a comedy movie on the cheer up Leo and made the two of them hot chocolate and baked some cookies.

"What do I do if Jesse doesn't remember me?" Leo asked.

"Just be yourself and he'll fall in love with you all over again," Kurt replied.

"What if he does get to know me and doesn't love me like he used to?" Leo asked.

"Don't be silly," Kurt replied, "The love you two have is epic. It'll come back to him."

"It kills me though," Leo said, "I have all these memories of him and I together and he has none of them as if they never happened."

"Just give it time," Kurt said. "He's only been awake for about a week right?"

"I know," Leo said, "And I'm still not completely over Tristan."

"You have no idea where he went?" Kurt asked.

"No," Leo sighed. "I just wish I knew where he was and if he's okay."

"Did you call the rehab facility?" Kurt asked.

"Yeah, they haven't heard from him," Leo said.

"Poor guy," Kurt said, "I hope he's okay."

"Me too," Leo said.

"Look, all you can do is hope for the best with Tristan," Kurt said, "If he wants to get into contact with you, he will. Right now though, you should focus on Jesse and help him get his memory back."

"You're right," Leo nodded. "I have to do what I can to help out Jesse."

"Just stay focused on that now," Kurt said. "We'll worry about Tristan later, but for your own sanity focus on someone you know you can help."

"All right," Leo replied. "Why don't you go back over to Gabriel's? I'll be okay."

"It's fine," Kurt answered, "I'll see him tomorrow."

"You two are really great together," Leo pointed out. "In fact, the only time I've seen you this happy with someone was with-"

"Ryan," Kurt said finishing Leo's sentence.

"How did he react when you told him you and Gabriel were dating?" Leo asked.

"He was a little shocked," Kurt replied. "Him and I are going to try and be friends."

"That's good right?" Leo asked.

"I guess," Kurt replied. "I just hope it doesn't further complicate things between him and I."

"What's there to complicate?" Leo asked. "You're dating someone, and I introduced him to someone tonight."

"Was that the guy I saw him with at the end of the evening?" Kurt asked.

"Yeah, probably," Leo replied. "Did he have black hair and blue eyes?"

"Yeah," Kurt replied.

"That was Dan," Leo explained. "He's a co-worker of mine."

"He's good looking," Kurt said.

"Very," Leo replied. "I think him and Ryan could hit it off."

"It's so weird that you're setting my ex-boyfriend up with someone," Kurt said.

"Well he's a friend of mine too," Leo said.

"I know, I know," Kurt replied. "I appreciate how well he gets along with you and Nick, it's just weird."

"You aren't jealous are you?" Leo asked.

"Me? Jealous?" Kurt asked trying to play it off, "Why would I be jealous?"

"Because if Ryan starts seeing someone else then things will really be over between the two of you," Leo replied.

"It already is over," Kurt said, "I'm happy with Gab."

"And I'm happy for you," Leo replied. "But I think that there still might be feelings there between you and Ryan."

"There will always be feelings between the two of us," Kurt said. "But like I had said before, things just got way too-"

"Complicated, I know," Leo finished Kurt's sentence, "But isn't that kind of what makes relationships exciting?"

"Leo, I really don't want to talk about Ryan any more.

Okay?" Kurt asked.

"All right," Leo replied. "I should get to bed anyway.

But can I just say one last thing?"

"It's not like I could stop you from saying it anyway," Kurt replied.

"If you're really happy with Gabriel then great, I'm happy for you, because he is a really great guy," Leo stated. "But if you're only with him because it's easy then you're in it for the wrong reasons. Relationships are never easy and the ones that are usually won't last long because they lack passion. Don't settle for easy."

With that Leo gave Kurt a kiss on the forehead before heading to his room for bed, leaving Kurt to contemplate where his heart was at.

The next day Nick was sitting in his dining room working when there was a knock on his door. When he answered it he was very distraught to see Wayne standing before him.

"What the hell are you doing here?" Nick asked, "How do you even know where I live?"

"That's not important," Wayne replied. "What's important is that I say what I came here to say."

"Oh and what's that?" Nick asked.

"Do yourself a favor and leave Luke," Wayne replied.

"Why would I listen to you?" Nick asked.

"Because I could make life a living hell for you if you don't," Wayne replied.

"Luke doesn't love you," Nick pointed out, "He never did."

"Oh yes he did," Wayne replied. "You should have heard him when we were making love. He would tell me that I was the best he ever had. By how stiff and frigid you are I'm sure masturbating is more of a thrill to him then you are."

"Say what you want," Nick replied, "I don't care. You mean nothing to either me or him."

"I think I will," Wayne replied. "Especially to you."

"Why is that?" Nick asked rolling his eyes.

"Because unless you get out of Luke's life I am never going to leave you alone," Wayne replied. "I will always stay very active in both your life and Luke's. Every time you go out with him, I'll be there. Every time you're away from him, just know that I'll be by his side in some way shape or form. You'll never get rid of me and the day will come when you eventually get too tired of it and go away. I always get what I want Nick, and I want Luke back and I'm going to get him."

"Not if I have anything to say about it," Nick replied.

"Nick, look down the road a month from now, two months from now, three, four, five, even a year," Wayne said. "How long do you think you can fight me? I'll never give up, I'll never get out of your life. I'm just going to be here until you finally get worn down and too tired. So do yourself a favor and just get out while you still have the strength."

Nick thought it over, did he really have the strength to put up a fight against Wayne? Did he really want to have to go through all that trouble, all that fighting?

"You're an asshole," Nick said.

"You have no idea," Wayne replied.

"Get out of here," Nick said sternly.

"Fine," Wayne replied. "I'll see you later Nick."

Wayne then walked off leaving Nick fuming, furious over the whole situation.

Meanwhile, Leo went over to see Jesse and brought with him the box of stuff that he had that had little knick knacks from when they were together, pictures, little gifts, etc. When he got to Jesse's parents' place, he saw Jesse sitting out in front on the patio resting.

"Hey," Leo waved as he walked up the walkway.

"Hi," Jesse replied getting up to greet Leo. He first shook his hand, but then slowly gave him a hug.

"How are you feeling?" Leo asked.

"Physically I'm feeling good," Jesse replied. "Mentally, I'm very frustrated."

"Understandable," Leo replied. "I would be to if I lost a big chunk of my memory. But we'll help you get it back; me, your parents, Kurt, Nick."

"Who's Kurt and Nick?" Jesse asked.

"They're my best friends," Leo replied. "They're your friends too. Especially Kurt, you and him are really close."

"Yeah?" Jesse asked.

"Yeah, in fact, I have a picture of them in this box," Leo said opening the shoe box of stuff up and taking out a picture of Jesse, Kurt, Nick and himself at the beach. He pointed out who Kurt was and who Nick was in the picture. "Do they look at all familiar?"

"No," Jesse sighed, "Sorry."

"It's okay," Leo said. "It's obviously going to take time."

"I think all this might just end up being a waste of time," Jesse said.

"No," Leo said. "I'm here with you. That's never a waste of time to me."

"Last night, you were saying we were a couple right?" Jesse asked.

"Yeah," Leo nodded.

Jesse smiled at the thought of that, the thought that he was once really happy.

"How long were we together?" Jesse asked.

"That's a long story," Leo replied. "We were together for over two years, but then we broke up for about a month and then got back together."

"Why did we break up the first time?" Jesse asked.

"You were working a lot and we both kind of drifted apart for a while and thought that it was best if we just broke up," Leo explained, "But then we saw how life was with out each other verses life with each other and realized what a good thing we had and found our way back to each other."

"We were together for a long time," Jesse said.

"Yeah," Leo replied. "We were everything to each other."

"Sounds like it," Jesse said. "I'm sorry I can't remember."

"Don't be," Leo said. "I know you'll remember eventually."

"What makes you think that?" Jesse asked.

"Because you and I can never be out of each other's lives," Leo replied. "We always find a way to get back to each other. It's what we do."

"Am I a good boyfriend?" Jesse asked.

"The best," Leo replied.

The two shared a silent moment with each other, Leo wanting so desperately to be back in Jesse's arms and Jesse so desperate to remember everything he can't.

"Want to go out and do something today?" Leo asked.

"Like what?" Jesse asked.

"Anything," Leo replied. "We'll just get in my car and drive, see where it takes us."

"Leo, you really don't have to go through all this trouble," Jesse said.

"It's not," Leo said. "I want to spend the day with you."

Jesse saw the sincerity in Leo's eyes and for a brief moment felt something very familiar about looking into those eyes.

"Okay," Jesse said. "Let me just tell my parents."

"Great," Leo smiled.

Over at Kurt's work he was looking up information on Britney Spears. West Coast Style wants to be the first magazine to do an interview with her post rehab and Claudia wanted to be sure that Kurt knew everything about her in case they got the interview. While he was doing that Gabriel came in to visit him with a red rose.

"Hey stud," Gabriel said giving him a kiss and the rose.

"Thank you," Kurt replied with another kiss, "I didn't know you were going to stop by today. I thought you had a meeting with Public Image clothing to go over the ad campaign with you for their new line?"

"I do, I have to be there in an hour, but I wanted to stop by and say hi," Gabriel said. "We still on for dinner tonight?"

"Absolutely," Kurt replied.

"Great," Gabriel said. "What are you doing?"

"Looking up some stuff on Britney Spears, we are hoping to get the first big interview with her since going through rehab," Kurt replied.

"Oh cool," Gabriel replied. "She's a sweetie."

"You've met her?" Kurt asked.

"Yeah," Gabriel nodded. "She's a very great girl. I hope you guys get the interview."

"Me too," Kurt replied. "I'd get to be the one who interviews her."

"Impressive," Gabriel said. "You're sure doing well here."

"Yeah, it's going really great," Kurt said. "It's all thanks to you. With out my interview with you I don't know where I'd be."

"All I did was answer questions," Gabriel said. "It was all you."

"Thanks babe," Kurt said giving Gabriel a kiss.

"So how's Leo doing?" Gabriel asked.

"He's actually doing all right," Kurt replied. "He's spending time with Jesse today."

"Good for him," Gabriel replied. "Hey Kurt, can I ask you a question?"

"Yeah sure," Kurt replied.

"Last night when I met Ryan I picked up on something between the two of you," Gabriel said. "Was there ever anything between you guys?"

Kurt was silent for a bit, not really wanting to go into it, but knew he owed Gabriel the truth.

"Ryan is my ex," Kurt replied. "He was someone I dated for a bit. He was one of the boyfriends I told you about who had to leave."

"I see," Gabriel nodded taking hold of Kurt's hands. "If he's here then why did you have abandonment issues with him?"

"Sit down," Kurt said, "This is a long story."

"Okay," Gabriel said sitting in a chair across Kurt's desk.

Kurt the proceeded to tell Gabriel about Reese and everything that happened.

At Luke's work he was in his office and just getting ready to call Nick with some good news when Wayne came in.

"Wayne, what are you doing here?" Luke asked hanging the phone up. "I told you I didn't want to see you."

"You don't mean that," Wayne replied.

"Yes I do," Luke said. "Wayne, we weren't right for each other."

"Luke, we were great together," Wayne said. "Really great. You can't possibly tell me you don't miss the times we had together."

"I don't," Luke said. "I hardly even remember them."

"Well let me refresh your memory," Wayne said before leaning in and began to kiss Luke. Luke protested and tried to push Wayne off, but he was overpowered.

"Luke, sorry to barge in on you," Nick said opening the door to Luke's office, "But I just got a disturbing visit from-"

Nick then stood cold in his feet when he saw Wayne kissing Luke.

"Oh, hello Nick," Wayne said when he heard Nick come in. "Didn't expect to see you here."

"Nick, this isn't how it looks," Luke said jumping out of his desk and raced over to Nick who was still in shock.

"Oh yes it is," Wayne lied. "Sorry Nick, but there is just something that will always be between Luke and me."

"Nick, he's lying," Luke said. "I would never do anything like that to you."

"This is how it's going to be?" Nick asked Wayne.

"You bet," Wayne replied.

"Every time?" Nick asked.

"Every time," Wayne confirmed.

"Nick, let me explain this," Luke said.

"I can't do this," Nick sighed. "He's not going to give up Luke."

"What?" Luke asked.

"I'm sorry, but I can't do this," Nick replied. "Wayne is just going to keep doing stuff like this until it eventually tears us apart. I'm sorry."

Nick then gave Luke a kiss.

"What are you saying?" Luke asked.

"I'm saying goodbye," Nick said sadly, "I'm sorry Luke."

"No, Nick don't do this," Luke said.

"Luke, he's just going to keep harassing us if we stay together," Nick said. "Neither one of us deserves to put up with that."

Nick then headed sadly for the door to leave.

"Nick," Luke called out.

Nick turned and gave Luke one last smile, "I love you."

"I love you too," Luke said.

"Are you happy now?" Nick asked Wayne. "You won."

Wayne just smiled as Nick then turned and left Luke's office.

"Oh, poor Nick," Wayne said.

"You son of a bitch," Luke snapped.

"I'll give you a bit of privacy to mourn the loss yet again of your beloved Nick," Wayne smiled.

"What happened to you?" Luke asked, "You used to be such a nice guy." He then took a moment to let it hit him, "Are you back on drugs?"

"Shut up," Wayne simply replied.

"You are, aren't you?" Luke asked. "You got back on drugs. Wayne, why? You were doing so good."

"Why do you think?" Wayne snapped. "It was the only thing to make me feel good once you left me."

"Wayne, you need to get help," Luke warned.

"I don't need help I just need you," Wayne replied trying to wrap his arms around Luke.

"Get off me," Luke said backing away from him, "Wayne, you need to stop that or you'll send yourself to an early grave."

"Not if I send you there first," Wayne laughed.

"Get the hell out of my office," Luke said pointing to the door. "Now."

"Fine," Wayne replied. "But this isn't over."

"Get out," Luke emphasized.

"I'll see you soon," Wayne smiled.

Luke didn't say anything as Wayne turned and smugly left.

Back at Kurt's office, he just finished telling Gabriel about everything with Reese and with Ryan.

"Wow," Gabriel said. "Your mom was right."

"What do you mean?" Kurt asked.

"She told me that you had a rough year," Gabriel replied. "Didn't realize how rough it was until just now."

"Yeah, well it wasn't the easiest time," Kurt said.

"Do you still have feelings for Ryan?" Gabriel asked.

"No," Kurt lied.

"Really?" Gabriel asked.

"I love you Gab," Kurt replied honestly. "I really love you."

"I just don't want to lose you," Gabriel said.

"I don't think that's something you have to worry about," Kurt said giving Gabriel a kiss.

"Phew," Gabriel smiled as he pretended to wipe sweat off of his forehead. He then looked at his watch, "Well I should get going. I'll see you tonight though."

"Sounds good. Love you," Kurt said giving Gabriel a kiss.

"Love you too," Gabriel replied. Gabriel left leaving Kurt to get back to work.

Meanwhile, Leo was driving around with Jesse, they drove all over town before ending up at Jesse's apartment. Since Jesse was in a coma his parents would stop by the place to dust and make sure everything was all right and paid the bills so that when Jesse was up on his feet, he could go right back to living there.

"Where are we?" Jesse asked looking at the apartment building.

"This is where you live," Leo replied getting out of the car.

"Really?" Jesse asked admiring the beautiful complex.

"Yeah, you're pretty successful," Leo replied. "Do you want to go inside and see your place? I have a key."

"Yeah," Jesse replied. "I'd like that."

They went inside to his apartment where everything was just the way that he had left it.

"Does anything look familiar?" Leo asked.

"Not really," Jesse replied walking around the apartment. He looked on the coffee table where there was a picture of him and Leo together and then there was another framed picture of him, his parents and Leo. The majority of the pictures that were in the apartment had Leo in them, a few even with Nick and Kurt as well. "Wow, I have a lot of pictures of you."

"It's cause you love looking at my face so much," Leo joked.

Jesse took a moment to let Leo's comment sink in, first his eyes, then his humor, there was definitely something familiar about him.

"Do you want to go see your room?" Leo asked pointing to the direction his bedroom is at.

Jesse walked into his room and looked around the place trying hard to find some familiarity out of it.

"Anything?" Leo asked.

"No," Jesse sighed.

"I'm sorry, maybe this was a bad idea with me bringing you here tonight," Leo said.

"No, I'm glad you did," Jesse said. "I appreciate you trying so hard for me."

"It wasn't just for you," Leo said trying to hold back tears. "It was for me too. I just want you to remember so badly."

"I'm sorry," Jesse said.

"No, don't apologize," Leo said. "It isn't your fault.

It's just the situation that I'm upset about. I'll be right back."

Leo then excused himself and went into the bathroom, he had to let out his tears, but he didn't want to do it in front of Jesse. As he sat down on the edge of the bathtub to settle himself down Jesse walked in and sat next to him.

"I'm sorry about the tears," Leo said. "I shouldn't be doing this in front of you. You have enough on your plate with out my added emotions."

"No, don't say that," Jesse said. "You go ahead and let it out. I know this is affecting you just as much as it's affecting me."

Jesse then leaned in and gave Leo a gentle kiss on the lips. They both shared a nervous look with one another before kissing some more before they both ended up on the ground taking each others clothes off.

That night Kurt and Gabriel were eating dinner together in a private room at his restaurant. Candles were lit everywhere, soft, romantic music was playing and the two couldn't stop gazing lovingly at one another.

"Dinner was great," Kurt said giving Gabriel a kiss.

"Just wait until you taste dessert," Gabriel said.

"Oh yeah?" Kurt asked. "What is it?"

"It's a chocolate souffle," Gabriel replied. "It may not be quite as good as your mom's pie, but it's a close second."

"Sounds great," Kurt said taking a sip of his champagne. "Tonight has been perfect."

"Well it's a special occasion," Gabriel said. "I got that Barbara Walters interview, you got a promotion at work, we said 'I love you' to one another, I couldn't think of three better reasons to celebrate."

"And Jesse's awake," Kurt added.

"And Jesse's awake," Gabriel agreed. "I'm very happy for you guys about that."

"Thank you," Kurt said.

Their waiter then came in and set the chocolate souffle on the table for them.

"So when does production start up on that movie you're going to work on?" Kurt asked.

"Next week," Gabriel replied. "I have to go all the way to Canada."

"Why Canada?" Kurt asked. "I thought it took place in the country."

"It does, but it's cheaper to film up in Canada," Gabriel replied.

"How long will you be gone for?" Kurt asked.

"two months," Gabriel replied.

"Two months?" Kurt asked, bummed out, "That's a long time."

"I can always come down on my days off and you can always come up and visit me," Gabriel offered. "I'll make sure we are not apart the whole time."

"Okay," Kurt smiled as he leaned in and gave Gabriel a kiss.

Back at Jesse's apartment, Leo and Jesse were laying on the floor in the bathroom still, having just had sex.

"I don't suppose that jogged your memory at all?" Leo asked.

"No, sorry," Jesse said. "It was good though. Real good."

"I can tell you for certain that what we just did was one of our best ones," Leo said.

"Yeah?" Jesse asked.

"Oh yeah," Leo replied.

The two both grew silent, not too sure what to do next. Leo then looked at the time and noticed how late it was.

"We should get going," Leo said. "I don't want your parents to worry about you."

"Okay," Jesse said as he started to get dressed. "Leo."

"Yeah?" Leo asked.

"Thank you for today," Jesse replied.

Leo just gave a gentle smile and gave Jesse a little kiss.

Kurt and Gabriel were on their way back to his place.

On the drive there Kurt called Nick to say hi since he didn't hear from him all day, but when Nick answered the phone Kurt could barely understand him.

"Nick?" Kurt asked not understanding what he was saying. "Are you crying? What is it? What's wrong?"

Nick tried talking, but Kurt couldn't understand a word of it.

"Nick, you aren't making any sense, what is it?" Kurt asked. But Nick just hung up, unable to talk anymore.

"Everything all right?" Gabriel asked.

"No," Kurt replied. "Nick was crying, but I couldn't understand what he was saying."

"You should go and check on him," Gabriel suggested.

"No. If he needs me he'll call. I don't want to cancel another night we were supposed to have together," Kurt said even though he really wanted to go and check on Nick.

"Kurt, it's fine," Gabriel assured. "We can do it another night."

"But I'll feel bad," Kurt replied.

"Why? Kurt, it sounds like Nick needs you," Gabriel said. "I'm okay with you going to see him."

"Are you sure?" Kurt asked.

"Positive," Gabriel replied. "I'll take you back to my place so you can get your car okay?"

"Thank you so much," Kurt said leaning over and giving him a kiss on the cheek.

"No problem," Gabriel replied.

When they got to his place Kurt gave Gabriel a big kiss before he went to his car and drove to Nick's place. On the way there he called up Leo.

"Hey Kurt," Leo answered.

"Hey, what are you doing?" Kurt asked.

"I just dropped Jesse off at his parents," Leo said.

"Well meet me at Nick's place," Kurt said.

"Why?" Leo asked. "Something wrong?"

"I think so," Kurt replied. "But I don't know what."

"I'll be right there," Leo said before he hung up.

Kurt and Leo arrived at Nick's place around the same time and went inside to check on him. When they walked inside all the lights in the living room were off.

"Are you sure he's home?" Leo asked turning a light on.

"I don't know," Kurt replied. "I couldn't understand him when I called him."

Kurt then saw the closed door to Nick's room with light shining through from under the door.

"He's in his room," Kurt said as they headed to the bedroom. When they walked in Nick was laying on his bed crying over Luke.

"What's wrong Nick?" Leo asked.

"We broke up," Nick barely was able to whisper.

"Did he hurt you?" Leo asked getting upset.

"Now's not the time for that," Kurt said to Leo. The two then just laid down next to Nick and held his hand to help him get through the rest of the night.

To Be Continued...

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