Four-Two Offense (one-shot "Birthday Weekend")
Four-Two Offense one-shot
I thought it was about time we dropped in on the boys to see how things are going. It's been several months since I finished FTO, so there's a quick re-cap below the cut. Hope you enjoy!
Warnings - fluffy fun, nothing serious, contains some m/m lovin'
Thanks to hesamathgeek for the beta. It's great to know you're still there :)
Feedback - hell yeah!
****
A summary of the main story...
Ennis and Jack met on the varsity volleyball team at highschool when Jack was a junior and Ennis a senior. The didn't get on initially as Ennis was a bit of a bullying pig, but some not-so-subtle flirting from both boys changed that forever. Jack's gossipy best friend Lureen is dating cool-dude Chad, who has been Ennis' best mate since forever. Jack and Lureen are now seniors and Chad and Ennis are both away at college. Ennis is studying medicine and Chad law. At the end of FTO, Ennis gave up his campus dorm room and got an apartment on his own so he could see Jack more often, He also gave Jack his truck...
****
“Hey babe!” Lureen grinned widely as she hopped up into the truck next to Jack. “Excited?”
Jack shrugged, but couldn’t help a small smile tugging at his lips. “Maybe.”
“No ‘maybe’ about it. You’re off to see your lovveerrrr-boy,” Lureen said in a sing-song voice.
“Idiot.” Jack gave her a friendly shove. “But so are you, so you can’t talk. Look at you, all dolled up!” His eyes flicked over her newly washed hair and cleavage-exposing shirt.
“Yeah, yeah.” Lureen dropped her weekend bag onto the seat behind then bounced up and down like a child. “Oh, it’s going to be such fun! The four of us together - like a real double date!”
Jack swung the truck into the road and glanced at Lureen quickly. “Don’t let Ennis hear you say that. Not in public anyway.”
“Sheesh,” Lureen waved her hand, “don’t fret, hon. I know Mr. Moody doesn’t like to admit he’s dating a guy.” She snuggled down into her seat and tugged open a bag of candy, offering it to Jack. “Gummy bear?”
It was a Friday night in mid October and the weekend of Ennis’ 19th birthday. Jack had been up to visit Ennis a couple of times since Ennis had gone away to college that fall, but it had been three weeks since his last visit. There was no way he was missing this weekend. Jack had learned from Lureen that Chad had been born only a few days after Ennis, and the two friends had celebrated their birthdays together as long as they could remember. It was a tradition that they wanted to continue and it seemed like the perfect opportunity for them all to meet up.
The long Indian summer they had been having that year showed no signs of letting up, and the weather looked fine for the birthday weekend. The beach near where Ennis lived was wild and wonderful. Jack always looked forward to going there.
After they had been driving for a couple of hours, Lureen navigated Jack off the interstate and towards Chad’s college. She pulled out her cell phone and called Chad.
“Hey babe!...uh huh…about twenty minutes…me too…yes, he’s good,” she glanced at Jack. “I’ll come and get you…what?!...no! Upstairs…ok…later!” She hung up and grinned at Jack.
“Chad ok?” Jack said, watching Lureen’s flushed face.
“Yeah. Says he’s looking forward to seeing you and Ennis again - and me, of course.”
“Of course,” Jack added and got a punch on the arm. “Ow!”
Lureen just grinned happily. “So, what’s Ennis’ place like? Chad’s on campus, so we keep having to bribe his roomie into disappearing for a couple of hours every time I’m there. It would be sooo cool if Chad had his own pad.”
Jack nodded. “Yeah, it is cool. It’s pretty small and everything, but at least it’s private.” He chewed his lip as he briefly recalled what he and Ennis had done in the little studio apartment on his previous visits. He couldn’t wait to get back there. He wiggled a little in his seat. He shot a glance at Lureen. “Um. Still, you and Chad are staying in a motel this weekend - plenty of private time for you, too.”
“Oh yeah, birthday treat for Chad!” Lureen blushed and dropped her head so her dark hair covered her red cheeks.
Jack snorted, “Don’t go all coy on me. I know what you get up to. You act all innocent and everything, but deep down you’re no better than some cheap…er…strumpet.”
“Strumpet?!” Lureen spluttered in mirth. “What century did you come from?” She suddenly waved her hand in excitement, “Oh! Oh! This is our exit. Turn right here.”
Insults forgotten, Jack followed her instructions until they pulled up in front of a large red brick building.
“Can you wait here? I’ll go get Chad.” Lureen scrambled out of the truck and skipped across the lawn to disappear through a large door.
Jack sighed and climbed out of the truck to stretch his legs. He figured he’d have a few minutes alone before Chad and Lureen would appear. He shoved his hands in his pockets and walked a short way from the truck. His mind was buzzing. He so couldn’t wait to see Ennis again. The last three weeks had been particularly hard. Senior year at Padua High was proving tough and the added pressure of being captain of the volleyball team was definitely keeping Jack on his toes. He needed this weekend away something fierce.
The sound of a door slamming turned him around and he saw Chad and Lureen, hand in hand, walking across the grass towards him. Chad had a bag slung over one shoulder. He dropped Lureen’s hand as he got close to Jack, extending his arm to pull Jack into a one armed hug. “Hey there, Baby Jack! How are you, dude?” he exclaimed, slapping Jack on the shoulder. “Good to see you!”
“You, too,” Jack replied with a grin and motioned for Chad to give him his bag. “It’s been ages.”
“Sure has, man. Reckon you’ve grown since I saw you last!” Chad’s pale blue eyes were dancing with amusement.
Jack shrugged. “Maybe a little.”
“You been looking after my girl here?” Chad returned his arm to Lureen’s shoulders and pulled her tight to him. Lureen beamed happily, returning the hug.
Jack snorted. “She doesn’t need much looking after. You should know that.”
“So true!” Chad laughed, “Sometimes I feel like I’m still the high school kid.” He looked down affectionately as Lureen pouted. He kissed the top of her hair. “Anyway, let’s get on the road, folks. There’s someone missing from this party.”
Oh yeah, Jack thought. You can say that again.
Chad offered to drive for a while, so Jack took the opportunity to nap while Chad and Lureen chatted quietly. If things went as he hoped, Jack wouldn’t be getting much sleep this weekend, so he welcomed the chance to get some rest while he could.
****
Another three hours later they arrived outside Ennis’ apartment and Jack stretched his arms up above his head, heard his back creak and tried to ignore his thumping heart. He always got nervous before he saw Ennis again, wondering if things were still going to be good between them; if the chemistry was still as explosive.
Jack pushed the intercom buzzer and held his breath as Ennis spoke, “Hi. That you, Jack?”
“Yeah, it’s us.”
“Cool. Come on up.”
The door clicked and Jack pulled it open, pointing Lureen and Chad up to the second floor. Jack heard a door open above him and ran up the stairs behind the others. Ennis stood framed in the doorway, frowning at them, arms folded. “You took your sweet time. What kept you?”
Chad laughed and mock punched Ennis, who stumbled back into the apartment. Lureen and Jack followed. “Good to see you’ve finally learned some manners, En,” Chad said before grabbing him around the shoulders in a bear hug. “Asshole.”
Ennis growled and returned the hug, lifting Chad off his feet. “So good to see you, you fucker.” Ennis was smiling as they broke apart, shoving Chad away from him.
Ennis rubbed his hands on his jeans and held one out to Lureen. “Um, hi. How are you?”
Lureen shook Ennis’ hand and dimpled a smile at him. “Good, thanks.”
Ennis finally turned to Jack and their eyes locked. Jack’s cheeks went hot as Ennis’ eyes burned into him. “Hey.”
“Hey,” Jack replied and they moved together for an awkward hug. Jack allowed himself a quick nuzzle of Ennis’ neck and felt lips brush his ear before they broke apart. He guessed he could wait to greet Ennis properly later.
Jack saw Chad and Lureen exchange a quick smile as he stepped away from Ennis. He could tell from Ennis’ expression that he wanted nothing more than to carry Jack over to the bed and devour him. Jack felt his cheeks flush even more.
“So. You gonna give us a tour, En?” Chad shoved his hands in his pockets and looked around the small apartment.
“Sure. Kitchen,” Ennis pointed at a small arrangement of cabinets, then a door on the far wall, “bathroom.” Opening his arms wide, “This is everything else.”
Chad nodded. “Nice. So, where we gonna eat? I’m starved, man.”
****
They ended up at a pizza place two blocks from where Ennis lived. Jack had been there on his last visit so he knew the service was quick. Thank god. Pizza was the last thing on his mind, but Jack knew he had to attempt to be social for the sake of his friends.
Ennis and Chad shared stories about what they had been up to at college, and he and Lureen filled them in on the news from back home. Not that there was too much to tell. Brodie and LaShawn were still dating and the volleyball team captain from the previous year, Cory Anderson, was working locally for his dad’s construction company.
Jack asked for the bill as he felt something brush against him under the table. He suddenly jumped as a warm hand pressed onto his thigh and started to move slowly upwards. His body reacted instantly and he shifted on the vinyl seat. He shot a quick glance at Ennis, who was playing with a book of matches on the table with his other hand, and appeared oblivious.
Jack cleared his throat. “So, er, what are our plans for tomorrow?”
Lureen almost bounced in her seat. “Oh, beach! Definitely the beach. If the weather stays good, of course. Is that ok?” she turned to Chad.
“Sure, babe.” He ruffled her dark hair. “Whatever you like.”
Jack gulped as the hand on his leg reached his crotch and a finger ran gently over the seam at his fly. He grabbed Ennis’ hand and moved it further down his leg, but as soon as he released it, the hand returned to his straining crotch, one finger gently stroking the hard ridge under the denim. He threw another glance at Ennis, who was facing the other way. “Uh, yeah, sounds good to me.” He grabbed Ennis’ hand again and squeezed it hard in warning. “Ennis?”
Ennis turned to him and nodded. “Yep. Ok. We can hit the drinks at my place tomorrow night. Celebrate us getting old.” He looked at Jack and his lips twitched as Ennis pulled his hand free and ran his fingers over his lips, subtly giving one a lick. Jack’s eyes widened and he gulped again. Damn. They needed to get back to Ennis’ flat. Now.
“Cool. Well, guess we’ll see you tomorrow.” Chad winked at Jack, “Not too early though, huh? Let us sleep in?”
“Chad!” Lureen went red and smacked his arm.
“What?” Chad threw his hands up. “I’m not a morning person, what can I say?”
Ennis suddenly stood up and grabbed Jack’s arm. “Sure, sounds like a plan. See you tomorrow. You know where the hotel is, right?” and he dragged Jack out of the restaurant, leaving Chad and Lureen gaping after them.
****
They ran back to Ennis’ place and slammed the door behind them. Breathing hard and pausing for a second, Jack felt his heart pulsing in his throat as Ennis’s glittering eyes raked over him. They lunged at each other as t-shirts were torn off and jeans yanked down. Naked bodies crashed together, lips sucking hard, tongues sliding over hot skin while hands stroked and groped. Jack cried out as Ennis’ hand wrapped around his dick and pulled once, twice and moved away again.
“Fuck, Jack. Missed you. Missed this.” Ennis grabbed at Jack’s ass and dropped to his knees to suck at Jack’s aching dick.
“Me, too.” Jack moaned. The moist warmth of Ennis’ mouth was driving him wild. His knees buckled and he collapsed to the floor in front of Ennis. He wanted Ennis so badly. He’d waited days, weeks for this and needed Ennis inside him. Right now. His body ached and felt so empty. “Ennis, please, need you,” he panted, hands scrabbling at Ennis’ shoulders, pulling him down on top of him.
The weight of Ennis against him pushed Jack’s shoulders painfully into the hard floor, but he didn’t care. He locked his legs around Ennis’ waist and wound his fingers into Ennis’ hair, holding his head tight as he plunged his tongue into Ennis’ mouth. Ennis was humping against him frantically, their hard erections rolling together.
“Ennis, please,” Jack moaned. Ennis wrenched his mouth away and sucked on his fingers before lifting up slightly and thrusting them into Jack. Jack grunted in pleasure. Finally. His whole body was humming with excitement, breaking out into a sweat all over as Ennis’ fingers moved inside him. Jack’s nails dug into Ennis’ back as Ennis withdrew his fingers and positioned himself over Jack’s entrance. Jack couldn’t stop himself from bucking up to meet Ennis’s dick, and Ennis had barely gotten in an inch before Jack felt himself start to come. The sweet invasion in his ass was just too much to handle. “Ennis. Oh yeah.” His whole body throbbed and pulsed with pleasure as he shot between them. He was vaguely aware that Ennis had stopped moving and was just looking down, watching him.
“God, you’re beautiful,” Ennis rasped, leaning down to lick along Jack’s jaw. “Can I?” He flexed his hips a little, pushing in a tiny bit further.
“Fuck yeah,” Jack moaned, still high from the afterglow of his somewhat premature orgasm, but also wanting to feel Ennis fully inside him.
Ennis growled and slid in with one thrust, gathering Jack up in his arms so that Jack was sitting on his lap, legs still wrapped around Ennis. He clung on like a limpet as Ennis drove into him, savoring the closeness, the connection. He never wanted to let go. Ever.
****
Jack was woken by an annoying chirping close to his ear. He moaned and turned on to his stomach, snuggling down into the warm sheets and pulling a pillow over his head. He was vaguely aware of Ennis sitting up and mumbling to someone on his cell phone. Jack slowly dragged himself out of slumber and wriggled slightly as his ass twinged. Damn, he felt well and truly fucked. How many times had they had sex last night? Jack honestly couldn’t remember. That had to be a good sign. Humming with contentment, he pushed the pillow off his head, stretched and leaned up on one elbow to look at Ennis. With his blond hair all mussed up and obvious stubble burn on his chin, Ennis had never looked sexier.
Ennis snapped his cell shut and flopped back down on the bed, arms above his head. “That was Chad,” he said, “he’s wondering where the hell we are.”
“Why? What time is it?” Jack yawned and reached out to trail a hand across Ennis’ chest.
“Nearly noon.”
Jack laughed. “Oh, shit!”
“Yeah,” Ennis smirked.
“Guess you wore us out.”
Ennis raised an eyebrow. “Me?”
“Yeah, you.” Jack grinned and rolled over to lie on top of Ennis. “You’re a bad influence.”
“Don’t see you complaining.”
Jack shrugged. “Anything for an easy life.”
“You saying you’re easy, huh?”
“Hey!” Jack sat up.
Ennis grabbed Jack’s wrists and flipped him over to straddle his hips, pinning him to the mattress. “Not that I mind, of course.” He leaned down to kiss Jack’s jaw, lips sliding down his neck to nip at his collar bone. “I kinda like an easy ride,” he added with a grin.
“Bastard,” Jack bucked up and tried to push Ennis off, “you’ll pay for that.”
“Sure I will,” Ennis taunted, continuing to lick at Jack’s skin, “but it’ll have to wait till later. We’re meeting the others for lunch.”
Jack sighed and closed his eyes. “Damn. Remind me again why we invited them? Birthdays are overrated anyway.”
“Oh, I dunno. Got you here, didn’t it?”
Jack had to smile. “True. Can’t argue with that one.”
****
They met Chad and Lureen at a café on the beach-front for a lunch of burritos. The yellow café umbrellas were flapping in the warm breeze and Jack and Ennis sat down close to each other on one side of a sun-bleached wooden table, opposite Lureen and Chad. The other couple had obviously been out at the beach for a while that morning, as Lureen’s milky white skin was flushed a little pink by the sun and Chad had grains of sand over his arms and shoulders. They both looked really happy and Jack thought again how good they seemed for each other.
“So, what kept you?” Chad asked with a grin. “Actually, don’t answer that. You might embarrass my lady friend here.” He leaned across and pretended to cover Lureen’s ears. “She’s such an innocent soul.”
Jack snorted as Lureen slapped Chad’s hands away. “I know what goes on,” Lureen replied indignantly. “I’ve seen Queer as Folk, you know.”
Jack cringed, very aware of Ennis sitting next to him. “Lu, do you want to say that a bit louder?”
“No one’s listening,” Lureen said with a wave of her hand, “and if they were they wouldn’t care anyway. Old news, babe.”
“Yeah, but please? Can we not talk about it out here?” Jack said pointedly.
Lureen sighed. “Sure guys, but it’s no biggie, you know. In fact it’s kind of cool these days. Very ‘in’.”
“Great,” Jack rolled his eyes, “so now I’m like a fashion accessory.”
“Oh, please, don’t get all drama queen on me,” Lureen replied.
“Me? You started it!”
“Yeah, well, for a change.” Lureen blinked and sucked at the straw in her soda, eyes wide with innocence.
Jack frowned at her and resumed looking through the menu in silence, sipping at his coke.
Chad raised an eyebrow and glanced over at Ennis. “Were they always like this? Do me and you argue like an old married couple, too?”
Ennis sniffed and glared at Chad. “’Course not. We’re much more mature.”
“Yeah, you’re right.” Chad cleared his throat and muttered under his breath. “Jerk.”
Ennis’ lips twitched and he brought a fist up to his mouth and pretended to cough. “Bitch.”
Jack nearly choked on his drink as a burst of surprised laughter erupted out of him. He was more taken back at Ennis’ lack of reaction to Lureen’s comment than anything. Maybe he was mellowing in his old age. The sparring with Chad was something Jack rarely saw, but it seemed like time away at college hadn’t affected the brotherly friendship that the two of them shared.
Chad scowled and flipped his middle finger at Ennis. Jack rolled his eyes. “What am I doing here? You’re all crazy. The bunch of you.”
Ennis shrugged as Lureen leaned into Chad’s side and blew Jack a kiss. “You know you really love us.”
Jack glanced quickly at Ennis before looking back over at Lureen and Chad with a smile. “Yeah, I guess I do.”
****
That afternoon Jack and Ennis went for a walk along the beach, with plans to meet up with the others again later that evening. Sneakers dangling from one hand, the sand was soft and warm between his toes. Jack squinted across at the water; surfers and swimmers decorated the glittering waves. It really was beautiful here. He couldn’t blame Ennis for choosing this place to come to college. He seemed happy here too. Ennis being happy made Jack happy.
“Sorry about Lureen,” Jack said suddenly.
“What?” Ennis bumped his shoulder as they walked.
“Lureen. She’s a bit unsubtle at times.”
“Yeah, I noticed,” Ennis replied with a grimace. “No problem. Unless she makes it one.”
“She won’t, not on purpose, but I do worry she might accidentally blurt something out. Some place where someone might take it the wrong way.” Jack walked closer to the sea, white water frothing around his bare feet. “I don’t want to make things hard for you.”
Ennis shrugged. “Guess we’ll see. It’s not like she comes here often. I don’t see the guys from my course much on the weekend anyway.”
“Ok,” Jack said. “She’s a great friend. But I know she has a big mouth.”
“It’s fine, Jack. Chad’s no fool, he wouldn’t be dating her if he thought she would cause problems.”
“Yeah, guess not.”
“Anyway, enough about them.” Ennis nudged Jack’s shoulder again and started them walking towards the sand dunes. “When do I get my present?”
“It’s not your birthday until tomorrow, Ennis.”
“I know. I’m impatient. Where is it?”
Jack stopped and bent down to pick a shell up from the sand. Brushing the grains off, he handed it over to Ennis. “Here. You like it? Took me ages to find the right one.”
Ennis inspected the shell closely. “Oh wow, Jack, you shouldn’t have.”
“Yeah, I know. But you’re worth it.”
Ennis smiled and put the shell in his pocket.
“Seriously, though, I did get you something. I’ve got it with me, too, if you want it now,” Jack said. “Can we go and sit down over there?” He gestured to the sand dunes. They were almost deserted, being too far from the sea for the bathers.
Ennis nodded and they found a secluded spot, high enough up so they could still see the water. Jack dropped his sneakers and sat down, resting his arms on his knees. “This place is amazing,” he said, “I love the dunes. The beach back home is so flat.”
“Yeah.” Jack was a little surprised when Ennis sat down right behind him and pulled him close against his chest, arms around Jack’s middle, legs straddling Jack’s.
Jack leaned back and the breeze whipped Ennis’ fair hair against Jack’s cheek. He pulled Ennis’ arms tighter around his waist. “I could spend hours here,” Jack sighed.
“I do, sometimes.” Ennis’ lips tickled his ear. “Bring some school work down. Come and watch the surfers.”
“Nice.”
“It’s real nice,” Ennis nuzzled into Jack’s neck. “Better with company, though.”
“Mmm.” Jack smiled.
“So what’d you get me?”
“Oh.” Jack sat forward a little and rummaged in his pocket. He pulled out a small package and put it in Ennis’ hand. “It’s not much, so don’t get all excited on me.”
“As if,” Ennis huffed in his ear. He scooted round a little so he could see over Jack’s shoulder and opened the package in front of them both.
Jack bit his lip nervously as Ennis pulled out a necklace. It was a small silver pendant in the shape of a surfboard, hung on a black leather cord. “I hope you like it. I saw it and thought of you. The first time I ever saw you surf I knew I felt something.”
Ennis touched the pendant gently. “Ice cream,” he murmured.
“What?”
“It was the day you bought that damn ice cream. The one with the chocolate stick in it.”
Jack squirmed a little in embarrassment, remembering. “Oh, yeah.”
Ennis squeezed his legs around Jack a little tighter. “Don’t ‘oh yeah’ me, you knew exactly what you were doing.” He paused a moment to examine the necklace more closely. “Troy gave me hell that afternoon.”
“Troy?” Jack frowned.
“My cousin. The guy I was with. My concentration was shot after your little display. Couldn’t surf for shit.”
Jack grinned. “Sorry.”
“No you’re not.” Ennis twisted his arms up and fastened the necklace around his neck. “I love it. Thanks.”
Jack turned to see how it looked on Ennis. It was perfect. The little surfboard nestled under the hollow of Ennis’ throat, just visible in the vee of his white shirt. Jack placed his hand on Ennis’ chest and fingered the pendant. “It looks great, really. Happy birthday.”
Ennis’ eyes darted around, then he dropped a quick kiss on Jack’s lips. Jack sighed happily and snuggled back into Ennis’ embrace. Ennis rested his chin on Jack’s shoulder and they sat that way for a while, huddled together, watching the sea sparkle in the distance.
****
All good things come to an end and it was particularly hard for Jack to say goodbye to Ennis the following afternoon. The four of them had shared a fun and rowdy evening in Ennis’ apartment on the Saturday night, all squashed together on the sofa watching DVDs and drinking whiskey and beer that Chad had managed to acquire. Lureen and Chad had returned to their motel just after midnight and Ennis had swiftly tackled Jack into bed. They didn’t get to sleep until a couple of hours later.
They said their final goodbyes, with Jack promising to visit again in a couple of weeks. Ennis held him close and buried his nose in Jack’s neck, inhaling deeply, as if trying to memorize his smell. “Had a great time. Gonna miss you,” he mumbled.
“Yeah, me too.” Jack replied, stroking Ennis’ back, not wanting to part. The weekends were so short. Never enough time. He felt like this was where he belonged; the long days spent back home were just passing time until he could be with Ennis again. He felt an ache in the back of his throat and blinked hard. He’d be damned if he was going to cry. That would be pathetic.
“Call me when you get home?” Ennis snuffled into Jack’s neck.
“Sure.”
They pulled apart and looked at each other. Ennis ran a finger down Jack’s cheek. “You’re still damn gorgeous, you know that?”
Jack swallowed down his emotions. “To you, maybe, but that’s all I care about.”
Ennis leaned forward for one last, deep, lingering kiss, which left Jack a little breathless. “See you soon.”
Jack placed his fingers on his lips and then gently touched Ennis’ chest, and the little surfboard pendant. “Bye, Ennis.”
Halfway down the stairs, Jack turned to see Ennis still standing in the doorway to his apartment, arms braced on the doorframe, looking down at him. It was so hard to leave when all his senses were telling him to stay. Maybe one day he wouldn’t have to make that choice.
He raised a hand in farewell and Ennis winked at him with a smile before closing the door.
Jack took a minute to compose himself before pushing open the outer door and joining Lureen and Chad who were waiting by the truck.
****
“It’s hard, isn’t it?”
“What?” Jack was lost in thought as Lureen spoke.
“Leaving them. Coming home. Seems like another world.”
Jack turned to her with a smile, noting her red-rimmed eyes. She had been subdued since they had dropped Chad off ten minutes ago.
“Yeah. Totally.”
“You gonna apply to Ennis’ college?” Lureen sniffed and dug in her bag for a tissue.
“It’s on my short-list, yeah. What about you?”
“Be serious, Jack. No way would I get the grades to get into Chad’s place.”
“You’re smart.”
“Yeah, but there’s smart and there’s smart smart.” Lureen dabbed her eyes and sat back with a sigh. “Sometimes I wonder what the hell he’s doing with me. There must be so many clever and cute girls in his program.”
“Chad loves you, Lu. You’re cute too, and more fun to be with than some stuffy law student I bet. Don’t you remember how he asked me to introduce you? Ennis said Chad had had the hots for you for ages.”
Lureen sniffed again, but smiled. “Yeah, I know. It’s just that sometimes I start thinking about things, about Chad and me, and worrying, and then worry that I am thinking too much. Do you know what I mean?”
“Yeah, I do.” Jack pulled off the road and put the truck in park before turning to face Lureen. “I worry about Ennis, too. Every day. Wonder if he’ll find someone else, someone better. Someone he can be with every day. Guess it’s only natural when they’re away from us for so long.” He leaned forward and pulled Lureen into a hug. “Least we’ve got each other, huh?”
Lureen clasped him tight and he felt her cheeks grow wet again. “Sorry,” she said tearfully, “I’m not normally so down. It was just such a great weekend.”
“Yeah, it was,” Jack agreed, feeling pretty melancholy himself.
The beep of Lureen’s cell made them pull apart. She dug in her bag and pulled out her phone. Reading the text message, she grinned happily and bit her lip in delight. She handed the phone over for Jack to see. The message was from Chad: “Miss u already. Love u babe. C x.”
Jack bumped her shoulder. “There you go, you see. Nothing to worry about.”
Lureen snuggled down in her seat to type a reply to Chad. Jack re-started the truck and pulled back onto the road. He suddenly couldn’t wait to get home and speak to Ennis again. It wasn’t the same as being there in person, but it kept things alive. It would give him enough to go on.
Until the next time.
THE END
****
And if you need a little reminder of what the folk look like, here you go!
JACK & ENNIS
CHAD & LUREEN
I thought it was about time we dropped in on the boys to see how things are going. It's been several months since I finished FTO, so there's a quick re-cap below the cut. Hope you enjoy!
Warnings - fluffy fun, nothing serious, contains some m/m lovin'
Thanks to hesamathgeek for the beta. It's great to know you're still there :)
Feedback - hell yeah!
****
A summary of the main story...
Ennis and Jack met on the varsity volleyball team at highschool when Jack was a junior and Ennis a senior. The didn't get on initially as Ennis was a bit of a bullying pig, but some not-so-subtle flirting from both boys changed that forever. Jack's gossipy best friend Lureen is dating cool-dude Chad, who has been Ennis' best mate since forever. Jack and Lureen are now seniors and Chad and Ennis are both away at college. Ennis is studying medicine and Chad law. At the end of FTO, Ennis gave up his campus dorm room and got an apartment on his own so he could see Jack more often, He also gave Jack his truck...
****
“Hey babe!” Lureen grinned widely as she hopped up into the truck next to Jack. “Excited?”
Jack shrugged, but couldn’t help a small smile tugging at his lips. “Maybe.”
“No ‘maybe’ about it. You’re off to see your lovveerrrr-boy,” Lureen said in a sing-song voice.
“Idiot.” Jack gave her a friendly shove. “But so are you, so you can’t talk. Look at you, all dolled up!” His eyes flicked over her newly washed hair and cleavage-exposing shirt.
“Yeah, yeah.” Lureen dropped her weekend bag onto the seat behind then bounced up and down like a child. “Oh, it’s going to be such fun! The four of us together - like a real double date!”
Jack swung the truck into the road and glanced at Lureen quickly. “Don’t let Ennis hear you say that. Not in public anyway.”
“Sheesh,” Lureen waved her hand, “don’t fret, hon. I know Mr. Moody doesn’t like to admit he’s dating a guy.” She snuggled down into her seat and tugged open a bag of candy, offering it to Jack. “Gummy bear?”
It was a Friday night in mid October and the weekend of Ennis’ 19th birthday. Jack had been up to visit Ennis a couple of times since Ennis had gone away to college that fall, but it had been three weeks since his last visit. There was no way he was missing this weekend. Jack had learned from Lureen that Chad had been born only a few days after Ennis, and the two friends had celebrated their birthdays together as long as they could remember. It was a tradition that they wanted to continue and it seemed like the perfect opportunity for them all to meet up.
The long Indian summer they had been having that year showed no signs of letting up, and the weather looked fine for the birthday weekend. The beach near where Ennis lived was wild and wonderful. Jack always looked forward to going there.
After they had been driving for a couple of hours, Lureen navigated Jack off the interstate and towards Chad’s college. She pulled out her cell phone and called Chad.
“Hey babe!...uh huh…about twenty minutes…me too…yes, he’s good,” she glanced at Jack. “I’ll come and get you…what?!...no! Upstairs…ok…later!” She hung up and grinned at Jack.
“Chad ok?” Jack said, watching Lureen’s flushed face.
“Yeah. Says he’s looking forward to seeing you and Ennis again - and me, of course.”
“Of course,” Jack added and got a punch on the arm. “Ow!”
Lureen just grinned happily. “So, what’s Ennis’ place like? Chad’s on campus, so we keep having to bribe his roomie into disappearing for a couple of hours every time I’m there. It would be sooo cool if Chad had his own pad.”
Jack nodded. “Yeah, it is cool. It’s pretty small and everything, but at least it’s private.” He chewed his lip as he briefly recalled what he and Ennis had done in the little studio apartment on his previous visits. He couldn’t wait to get back there. He wiggled a little in his seat. He shot a glance at Lureen. “Um. Still, you and Chad are staying in a motel this weekend - plenty of private time for you, too.”
“Oh yeah, birthday treat for Chad!” Lureen blushed and dropped her head so her dark hair covered her red cheeks.
Jack snorted, “Don’t go all coy on me. I know what you get up to. You act all innocent and everything, but deep down you’re no better than some cheap…er…strumpet.”
“Strumpet?!” Lureen spluttered in mirth. “What century did you come from?” She suddenly waved her hand in excitement, “Oh! Oh! This is our exit. Turn right here.”
Insults forgotten, Jack followed her instructions until they pulled up in front of a large red brick building.
“Can you wait here? I’ll go get Chad.” Lureen scrambled out of the truck and skipped across the lawn to disappear through a large door.
Jack sighed and climbed out of the truck to stretch his legs. He figured he’d have a few minutes alone before Chad and Lureen would appear. He shoved his hands in his pockets and walked a short way from the truck. His mind was buzzing. He so couldn’t wait to see Ennis again. The last three weeks had been particularly hard. Senior year at Padua High was proving tough and the added pressure of being captain of the volleyball team was definitely keeping Jack on his toes. He needed this weekend away something fierce.
The sound of a door slamming turned him around and he saw Chad and Lureen, hand in hand, walking across the grass towards him. Chad had a bag slung over one shoulder. He dropped Lureen’s hand as he got close to Jack, extending his arm to pull Jack into a one armed hug. “Hey there, Baby Jack! How are you, dude?” he exclaimed, slapping Jack on the shoulder. “Good to see you!”
“You, too,” Jack replied with a grin and motioned for Chad to give him his bag. “It’s been ages.”
“Sure has, man. Reckon you’ve grown since I saw you last!” Chad’s pale blue eyes were dancing with amusement.
Jack shrugged. “Maybe a little.”
“You been looking after my girl here?” Chad returned his arm to Lureen’s shoulders and pulled her tight to him. Lureen beamed happily, returning the hug.
Jack snorted. “She doesn’t need much looking after. You should know that.”
“So true!” Chad laughed, “Sometimes I feel like I’m still the high school kid.” He looked down affectionately as Lureen pouted. He kissed the top of her hair. “Anyway, let’s get on the road, folks. There’s someone missing from this party.”
Oh yeah, Jack thought. You can say that again.
Chad offered to drive for a while, so Jack took the opportunity to nap while Chad and Lureen chatted quietly. If things went as he hoped, Jack wouldn’t be getting much sleep this weekend, so he welcomed the chance to get some rest while he could.
****
Another three hours later they arrived outside Ennis’ apartment and Jack stretched his arms up above his head, heard his back creak and tried to ignore his thumping heart. He always got nervous before he saw Ennis again, wondering if things were still going to be good between them; if the chemistry was still as explosive.
Jack pushed the intercom buzzer and held his breath as Ennis spoke, “Hi. That you, Jack?”
“Yeah, it’s us.”
“Cool. Come on up.”
The door clicked and Jack pulled it open, pointing Lureen and Chad up to the second floor. Jack heard a door open above him and ran up the stairs behind the others. Ennis stood framed in the doorway, frowning at them, arms folded. “You took your sweet time. What kept you?”
Chad laughed and mock punched Ennis, who stumbled back into the apartment. Lureen and Jack followed. “Good to see you’ve finally learned some manners, En,” Chad said before grabbing him around the shoulders in a bear hug. “Asshole.”
Ennis growled and returned the hug, lifting Chad off his feet. “So good to see you, you fucker.” Ennis was smiling as they broke apart, shoving Chad away from him.
Ennis rubbed his hands on his jeans and held one out to Lureen. “Um, hi. How are you?”
Lureen shook Ennis’ hand and dimpled a smile at him. “Good, thanks.”
Ennis finally turned to Jack and their eyes locked. Jack’s cheeks went hot as Ennis’ eyes burned into him. “Hey.”
“Hey,” Jack replied and they moved together for an awkward hug. Jack allowed himself a quick nuzzle of Ennis’ neck and felt lips brush his ear before they broke apart. He guessed he could wait to greet Ennis properly later.
Jack saw Chad and Lureen exchange a quick smile as he stepped away from Ennis. He could tell from Ennis’ expression that he wanted nothing more than to carry Jack over to the bed and devour him. Jack felt his cheeks flush even more.
“So. You gonna give us a tour, En?” Chad shoved his hands in his pockets and looked around the small apartment.
“Sure. Kitchen,” Ennis pointed at a small arrangement of cabinets, then a door on the far wall, “bathroom.” Opening his arms wide, “This is everything else.”
Chad nodded. “Nice. So, where we gonna eat? I’m starved, man.”
****
They ended up at a pizza place two blocks from where Ennis lived. Jack had been there on his last visit so he knew the service was quick. Thank god. Pizza was the last thing on his mind, but Jack knew he had to attempt to be social for the sake of his friends.
Ennis and Chad shared stories about what they had been up to at college, and he and Lureen filled them in on the news from back home. Not that there was too much to tell. Brodie and LaShawn were still dating and the volleyball team captain from the previous year, Cory Anderson, was working locally for his dad’s construction company.
Jack asked for the bill as he felt something brush against him under the table. He suddenly jumped as a warm hand pressed onto his thigh and started to move slowly upwards. His body reacted instantly and he shifted on the vinyl seat. He shot a quick glance at Ennis, who was playing with a book of matches on the table with his other hand, and appeared oblivious.
Jack cleared his throat. “So, er, what are our plans for tomorrow?”
Lureen almost bounced in her seat. “Oh, beach! Definitely the beach. If the weather stays good, of course. Is that ok?” she turned to Chad.
“Sure, babe.” He ruffled her dark hair. “Whatever you like.”
Jack gulped as the hand on his leg reached his crotch and a finger ran gently over the seam at his fly. He grabbed Ennis’ hand and moved it further down his leg, but as soon as he released it, the hand returned to his straining crotch, one finger gently stroking the hard ridge under the denim. He threw another glance at Ennis, who was facing the other way. “Uh, yeah, sounds good to me.” He grabbed Ennis’ hand again and squeezed it hard in warning. “Ennis?”
Ennis turned to him and nodded. “Yep. Ok. We can hit the drinks at my place tomorrow night. Celebrate us getting old.” He looked at Jack and his lips twitched as Ennis pulled his hand free and ran his fingers over his lips, subtly giving one a lick. Jack’s eyes widened and he gulped again. Damn. They needed to get back to Ennis’ flat. Now.
“Cool. Well, guess we’ll see you tomorrow.” Chad winked at Jack, “Not too early though, huh? Let us sleep in?”
“Chad!” Lureen went red and smacked his arm.
“What?” Chad threw his hands up. “I’m not a morning person, what can I say?”
Ennis suddenly stood up and grabbed Jack’s arm. “Sure, sounds like a plan. See you tomorrow. You know where the hotel is, right?” and he dragged Jack out of the restaurant, leaving Chad and Lureen gaping after them.
****
They ran back to Ennis’ place and slammed the door behind them. Breathing hard and pausing for a second, Jack felt his heart pulsing in his throat as Ennis’s glittering eyes raked over him. They lunged at each other as t-shirts were torn off and jeans yanked down. Naked bodies crashed together, lips sucking hard, tongues sliding over hot skin while hands stroked and groped. Jack cried out as Ennis’ hand wrapped around his dick and pulled once, twice and moved away again.
“Fuck, Jack. Missed you. Missed this.” Ennis grabbed at Jack’s ass and dropped to his knees to suck at Jack’s aching dick.
“Me, too.” Jack moaned. The moist warmth of Ennis’ mouth was driving him wild. His knees buckled and he collapsed to the floor in front of Ennis. He wanted Ennis so badly. He’d waited days, weeks for this and needed Ennis inside him. Right now. His body ached and felt so empty. “Ennis, please, need you,” he panted, hands scrabbling at Ennis’ shoulders, pulling him down on top of him.
The weight of Ennis against him pushed Jack’s shoulders painfully into the hard floor, but he didn’t care. He locked his legs around Ennis’ waist and wound his fingers into Ennis’ hair, holding his head tight as he plunged his tongue into Ennis’ mouth. Ennis was humping against him frantically, their hard erections rolling together.
“Ennis, please,” Jack moaned. Ennis wrenched his mouth away and sucked on his fingers before lifting up slightly and thrusting them into Jack. Jack grunted in pleasure. Finally. His whole body was humming with excitement, breaking out into a sweat all over as Ennis’ fingers moved inside him. Jack’s nails dug into Ennis’ back as Ennis withdrew his fingers and positioned himself over Jack’s entrance. Jack couldn’t stop himself from bucking up to meet Ennis’s dick, and Ennis had barely gotten in an inch before Jack felt himself start to come. The sweet invasion in his ass was just too much to handle. “Ennis. Oh yeah.” His whole body throbbed and pulsed with pleasure as he shot between them. He was vaguely aware that Ennis had stopped moving and was just looking down, watching him.
“God, you’re beautiful,” Ennis rasped, leaning down to lick along Jack’s jaw. “Can I?” He flexed his hips a little, pushing in a tiny bit further.
“Fuck yeah,” Jack moaned, still high from the afterglow of his somewhat premature orgasm, but also wanting to feel Ennis fully inside him.
Ennis growled and slid in with one thrust, gathering Jack up in his arms so that Jack was sitting on his lap, legs still wrapped around Ennis. He clung on like a limpet as Ennis drove into him, savoring the closeness, the connection. He never wanted to let go. Ever.
****
Jack was woken by an annoying chirping close to his ear. He moaned and turned on to his stomach, snuggling down into the warm sheets and pulling a pillow over his head. He was vaguely aware of Ennis sitting up and mumbling to someone on his cell phone. Jack slowly dragged himself out of slumber and wriggled slightly as his ass twinged. Damn, he felt well and truly fucked. How many times had they had sex last night? Jack honestly couldn’t remember. That had to be a good sign. Humming with contentment, he pushed the pillow off his head, stretched and leaned up on one elbow to look at Ennis. With his blond hair all mussed up and obvious stubble burn on his chin, Ennis had never looked sexier.
Ennis snapped his cell shut and flopped back down on the bed, arms above his head. “That was Chad,” he said, “he’s wondering where the hell we are.”
“Why? What time is it?” Jack yawned and reached out to trail a hand across Ennis’ chest.
“Nearly noon.”
Jack laughed. “Oh, shit!”
“Yeah,” Ennis smirked.
“Guess you wore us out.”
Ennis raised an eyebrow. “Me?”
“Yeah, you.” Jack grinned and rolled over to lie on top of Ennis. “You’re a bad influence.”
“Don’t see you complaining.”
Jack shrugged. “Anything for an easy life.”
“You saying you’re easy, huh?”
“Hey!” Jack sat up.
Ennis grabbed Jack’s wrists and flipped him over to straddle his hips, pinning him to the mattress. “Not that I mind, of course.” He leaned down to kiss Jack’s jaw, lips sliding down his neck to nip at his collar bone. “I kinda like an easy ride,” he added with a grin.
“Bastard,” Jack bucked up and tried to push Ennis off, “you’ll pay for that.”
“Sure I will,” Ennis taunted, continuing to lick at Jack’s skin, “but it’ll have to wait till later. We’re meeting the others for lunch.”
Jack sighed and closed his eyes. “Damn. Remind me again why we invited them? Birthdays are overrated anyway.”
“Oh, I dunno. Got you here, didn’t it?”
Jack had to smile. “True. Can’t argue with that one.”
****
They met Chad and Lureen at a café on the beach-front for a lunch of burritos. The yellow café umbrellas were flapping in the warm breeze and Jack and Ennis sat down close to each other on one side of a sun-bleached wooden table, opposite Lureen and Chad. The other couple had obviously been out at the beach for a while that morning, as Lureen’s milky white skin was flushed a little pink by the sun and Chad had grains of sand over his arms and shoulders. They both looked really happy and Jack thought again how good they seemed for each other.
“So, what kept you?” Chad asked with a grin. “Actually, don’t answer that. You might embarrass my lady friend here.” He leaned across and pretended to cover Lureen’s ears. “She’s such an innocent soul.”
Jack snorted as Lureen slapped Chad’s hands away. “I know what goes on,” Lureen replied indignantly. “I’ve seen Queer as Folk, you know.”
Jack cringed, very aware of Ennis sitting next to him. “Lu, do you want to say that a bit louder?”
“No one’s listening,” Lureen said with a wave of her hand, “and if they were they wouldn’t care anyway. Old news, babe.”
“Yeah, but please? Can we not talk about it out here?” Jack said pointedly.
Lureen sighed. “Sure guys, but it’s no biggie, you know. In fact it’s kind of cool these days. Very ‘in’.”
“Great,” Jack rolled his eyes, “so now I’m like a fashion accessory.”
“Oh, please, don’t get all drama queen on me,” Lureen replied.
“Me? You started it!”
“Yeah, well, for a change.” Lureen blinked and sucked at the straw in her soda, eyes wide with innocence.
Jack frowned at her and resumed looking through the menu in silence, sipping at his coke.
Chad raised an eyebrow and glanced over at Ennis. “Were they always like this? Do me and you argue like an old married couple, too?”
Ennis sniffed and glared at Chad. “’Course not. We’re much more mature.”
“Yeah, you’re right.” Chad cleared his throat and muttered under his breath. “Jerk.”
Ennis’ lips twitched and he brought a fist up to his mouth and pretended to cough. “Bitch.”
Jack nearly choked on his drink as a burst of surprised laughter erupted out of him. He was more taken back at Ennis’ lack of reaction to Lureen’s comment than anything. Maybe he was mellowing in his old age. The sparring with Chad was something Jack rarely saw, but it seemed like time away at college hadn’t affected the brotherly friendship that the two of them shared.
Chad scowled and flipped his middle finger at Ennis. Jack rolled his eyes. “What am I doing here? You’re all crazy. The bunch of you.”
Ennis shrugged as Lureen leaned into Chad’s side and blew Jack a kiss. “You know you really love us.”
Jack glanced quickly at Ennis before looking back over at Lureen and Chad with a smile. “Yeah, I guess I do.”
****
That afternoon Jack and Ennis went for a walk along the beach, with plans to meet up with the others again later that evening. Sneakers dangling from one hand, the sand was soft and warm between his toes. Jack squinted across at the water; surfers and swimmers decorated the glittering waves. It really was beautiful here. He couldn’t blame Ennis for choosing this place to come to college. He seemed happy here too. Ennis being happy made Jack happy.
“Sorry about Lureen,” Jack said suddenly.
“What?” Ennis bumped his shoulder as they walked.
“Lureen. She’s a bit unsubtle at times.”
“Yeah, I noticed,” Ennis replied with a grimace. “No problem. Unless she makes it one.”
“She won’t, not on purpose, but I do worry she might accidentally blurt something out. Some place where someone might take it the wrong way.” Jack walked closer to the sea, white water frothing around his bare feet. “I don’t want to make things hard for you.”
Ennis shrugged. “Guess we’ll see. It’s not like she comes here often. I don’t see the guys from my course much on the weekend anyway.”
“Ok,” Jack said. “She’s a great friend. But I know she has a big mouth.”
“It’s fine, Jack. Chad’s no fool, he wouldn’t be dating her if he thought she would cause problems.”
“Yeah, guess not.”
“Anyway, enough about them.” Ennis nudged Jack’s shoulder again and started them walking towards the sand dunes. “When do I get my present?”
“It’s not your birthday until tomorrow, Ennis.”
“I know. I’m impatient. Where is it?”
Jack stopped and bent down to pick a shell up from the sand. Brushing the grains off, he handed it over to Ennis. “Here. You like it? Took me ages to find the right one.”
Ennis inspected the shell closely. “Oh wow, Jack, you shouldn’t have.”
“Yeah, I know. But you’re worth it.”
Ennis smiled and put the shell in his pocket.
“Seriously, though, I did get you something. I’ve got it with me, too, if you want it now,” Jack said. “Can we go and sit down over there?” He gestured to the sand dunes. They were almost deserted, being too far from the sea for the bathers.
Ennis nodded and they found a secluded spot, high enough up so they could still see the water. Jack dropped his sneakers and sat down, resting his arms on his knees. “This place is amazing,” he said, “I love the dunes. The beach back home is so flat.”
“Yeah.” Jack was a little surprised when Ennis sat down right behind him and pulled him close against his chest, arms around Jack’s middle, legs straddling Jack’s.
Jack leaned back and the breeze whipped Ennis’ fair hair against Jack’s cheek. He pulled Ennis’ arms tighter around his waist. “I could spend hours here,” Jack sighed.
“I do, sometimes.” Ennis’ lips tickled his ear. “Bring some school work down. Come and watch the surfers.”
“Nice.”
“It’s real nice,” Ennis nuzzled into Jack’s neck. “Better with company, though.”
“Mmm.” Jack smiled.
“So what’d you get me?”
“Oh.” Jack sat forward a little and rummaged in his pocket. He pulled out a small package and put it in Ennis’ hand. “It’s not much, so don’t get all excited on me.”
“As if,” Ennis huffed in his ear. He scooted round a little so he could see over Jack’s shoulder and opened the package in front of them both.
Jack bit his lip nervously as Ennis pulled out a necklace. It was a small silver pendant in the shape of a surfboard, hung on a black leather cord. “I hope you like it. I saw it and thought of you. The first time I ever saw you surf I knew I felt something.”
Ennis touched the pendant gently. “Ice cream,” he murmured.
“What?”
“It was the day you bought that damn ice cream. The one with the chocolate stick in it.”
Jack squirmed a little in embarrassment, remembering. “Oh, yeah.”
Ennis squeezed his legs around Jack a little tighter. “Don’t ‘oh yeah’ me, you knew exactly what you were doing.” He paused a moment to examine the necklace more closely. “Troy gave me hell that afternoon.”
“Troy?” Jack frowned.
“My cousin. The guy I was with. My concentration was shot after your little display. Couldn’t surf for shit.”
Jack grinned. “Sorry.”
“No you’re not.” Ennis twisted his arms up and fastened the necklace around his neck. “I love it. Thanks.”
Jack turned to see how it looked on Ennis. It was perfect. The little surfboard nestled under the hollow of Ennis’ throat, just visible in the vee of his white shirt. Jack placed his hand on Ennis’ chest and fingered the pendant. “It looks great, really. Happy birthday.”
Ennis’ eyes darted around, then he dropped a quick kiss on Jack’s lips. Jack sighed happily and snuggled back into Ennis’ embrace. Ennis rested his chin on Jack’s shoulder and they sat that way for a while, huddled together, watching the sea sparkle in the distance.
****
All good things come to an end and it was particularly hard for Jack to say goodbye to Ennis the following afternoon. The four of them had shared a fun and rowdy evening in Ennis’ apartment on the Saturday night, all squashed together on the sofa watching DVDs and drinking whiskey and beer that Chad had managed to acquire. Lureen and Chad had returned to their motel just after midnight and Ennis had swiftly tackled Jack into bed. They didn’t get to sleep until a couple of hours later.
They said their final goodbyes, with Jack promising to visit again in a couple of weeks. Ennis held him close and buried his nose in Jack’s neck, inhaling deeply, as if trying to memorize his smell. “Had a great time. Gonna miss you,” he mumbled.
“Yeah, me too.” Jack replied, stroking Ennis’ back, not wanting to part. The weekends were so short. Never enough time. He felt like this was where he belonged; the long days spent back home were just passing time until he could be with Ennis again. He felt an ache in the back of his throat and blinked hard. He’d be damned if he was going to cry. That would be pathetic.
“Call me when you get home?” Ennis snuffled into Jack’s neck.
“Sure.”
They pulled apart and looked at each other. Ennis ran a finger down Jack’s cheek. “You’re still damn gorgeous, you know that?”
Jack swallowed down his emotions. “To you, maybe, but that’s all I care about.”
Ennis leaned forward for one last, deep, lingering kiss, which left Jack a little breathless. “See you soon.”
Jack placed his fingers on his lips and then gently touched Ennis’ chest, and the little surfboard pendant. “Bye, Ennis.”
Halfway down the stairs, Jack turned to see Ennis still standing in the doorway to his apartment, arms braced on the doorframe, looking down at him. It was so hard to leave when all his senses were telling him to stay. Maybe one day he wouldn’t have to make that choice.
He raised a hand in farewell and Ennis winked at him with a smile before closing the door.
Jack took a minute to compose himself before pushing open the outer door and joining Lureen and Chad who were waiting by the truck.
****
“It’s hard, isn’t it?”
“What?” Jack was lost in thought as Lureen spoke.
“Leaving them. Coming home. Seems like another world.”
Jack turned to her with a smile, noting her red-rimmed eyes. She had been subdued since they had dropped Chad off ten minutes ago.
“Yeah. Totally.”
“You gonna apply to Ennis’ college?” Lureen sniffed and dug in her bag for a tissue.
“It’s on my short-list, yeah. What about you?”
“Be serious, Jack. No way would I get the grades to get into Chad’s place.”
“You’re smart.”
“Yeah, but there’s smart and there’s smart smart.” Lureen dabbed her eyes and sat back with a sigh. “Sometimes I wonder what the hell he’s doing with me. There must be so many clever and cute girls in his program.”
“Chad loves you, Lu. You’re cute too, and more fun to be with than some stuffy law student I bet. Don’t you remember how he asked me to introduce you? Ennis said Chad had had the hots for you for ages.”
Lureen sniffed again, but smiled. “Yeah, I know. It’s just that sometimes I start thinking about things, about Chad and me, and worrying, and then worry that I am thinking too much. Do you know what I mean?”
“Yeah, I do.” Jack pulled off the road and put the truck in park before turning to face Lureen. “I worry about Ennis, too. Every day. Wonder if he’ll find someone else, someone better. Someone he can be with every day. Guess it’s only natural when they’re away from us for so long.” He leaned forward and pulled Lureen into a hug. “Least we’ve got each other, huh?”
Lureen clasped him tight and he felt her cheeks grow wet again. “Sorry,” she said tearfully, “I’m not normally so down. It was just such a great weekend.”
“Yeah, it was,” Jack agreed, feeling pretty melancholy himself.
The beep of Lureen’s cell made them pull apart. She dug in her bag and pulled out her phone. Reading the text message, she grinned happily and bit her lip in delight. She handed the phone over for Jack to see. The message was from Chad: “Miss u already. Love u babe. C x.”
Jack bumped her shoulder. “There you go, you see. Nothing to worry about.”
Lureen snuggled down in her seat to type a reply to Chad. Jack re-started the truck and pulled back onto the road. He suddenly couldn’t wait to get home and speak to Ennis again. It wasn’t the same as being there in person, but it kept things alive. It would give him enough to go on.
Until the next time.
THE END
****
And if you need a little reminder of what the folk look like, here you go!
JACK & ENNIS
CHAD & LUREEN