Hotel Ferrero (Chapter 10)
Title: Hotel Ferrero
Pairing: Nadal/Gasquet, Djokovic/Roddick, Safin/Ferrero, Federer/Moya
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters and this is a fiction.
Summary: Richard has got Rafael in his atelier while Andy Roddick and Novak try to establish a real relationship. Carlos speaks to Roger about his schedule while Juan Carlos gets attached to a fan letter.
Author's note: For those who would like to read a modern text of the sonnet 27, please find it at the very end :)
From the previous chapter:
Rafael agreed to pose for Richard’s sculpture while Andy Murray decided to play fair to get Novak back. Janko felt bad for Mario who has feelings for their boss but Marat has no idea about it.
Chapter 10: Filled with love
Soft music was surrounding the atelier but Rafael was unbelievably uncomfortable. He assumed that Richard had put music on to make him feel relaxed but it was having the exactly opposite effect on him.
‘Vampires are scary. Now I can tell.’
The human had to admit that the melody itself wasn’t too bad but it was rather the lyrics that bothered him.
Come into the dark with me
Sharpen your fangs so we can taste it
Can you smell that? It’s the purest blood ever
Now let’s drink together before the evil Sun forces us apart
“Um... Richie, what’s the title of this song?”
“Drink in the dark. Why? You like it?” Richard beamed and Rafael did his best to make his lips form something similar to a smile.
“Oh, you don’t.” The French sounded disappointed.
“The melody’s very nice.” Rafael spoke in hopes of seeing a bright Richard again.
“Well, I prefer the lyrics but yes, I suppose the melody’s nice as well.”
The Spaniard moved a little in frustration and earned a yell.
“Don’t move, Rafa! It’s already the third time that you moved!”
“Sorry.”
It wasn’t that he was posing in an uncomfortable position but actually quite the contrary. Richard had wanted him on a rug and had asked him to roll onto his side with a cushion under his head. So it was as if he was sleeping with his jeans on but still, Rafael found it difficult to stay still.
‘Well, at least this weird music seems to help him draw. He looks more focused now.’
The French was busy moving his hand in front of an easel while the Spaniard felt sleepy and sleepy as time passed by. Richard heard Rafael yawn and looked up at him.
“Sorry, Rafa. I know it’s very late.”
“It’s ok. Don’t worry.”
“You know what? If you don’t move too much in your sleep, you can just close your eyes and go to sleep right there.” Richard knew that he was acting selfish. He had to send the human back to his own room but he was enjoying the inspiration of his life which made it difficult for him to let his boyfriend go.
Rafael looked at Richard in disbelief. ‘I know that I look strong but I don’t like to sleep on rugs, no?’
He figured that any artist would want to keep his model in place as long as he could, so he just nodded. “Ok. Good night, then.”
As Rafael’s eyes closed, Richard jumped up and almost ran towards him. By the time the Spaniard had opened his eyes again to see what was going on, he was getting a good night kiss.
“Do not move, Rafa.”
“But you’re kissing me.”
“I just need your lips, not your arms.”
“But I want to hold you too.”
“You can do it tomorrow.”
While Rafael pouted a little, Richard wished him good night before heading back to where his easel was standing. The human already had a blanket covering his jeans but Richard was still worried that he might catch a cold.
‘I’ll have to finish what I need to do very quickly! Humans are going to kill me if they find out that I made him sick.’
The French sat down to get back to work when an idea popped in his head. ‘He’s asleep so I can go a little closer, right?’
The sculptor quietly moved his easel near his model who was fast asleep and realized that his heart was pounding.
‘Ok, maybe that was too close. Let’s go back a little.’
Only after five minutes was Richard able to find the exact spot where he could have a better view of Rafael’s body and still be able to focus on his artwork. He had already finished numerous sketches from various angles and thought that it was his fastest working speed ever.
‘Hmm, I feel like my hand is flying...’
Richard was moving his easel once more to the right when he heard a disturbing moan.
‘Is he having bad dreams?’
But when the next moan was much longer and more sensual, Richard’s eyes shot wide open.
‘Okay... it sounds like he’s having good dreams.’
Another moan escaped Rafael’s lips.
‘Very good dreams!’
The French got up and turned the music off. Now he could hear his boyfriend’s breathing much louder. Rafael’s moans had stopped and Richard wasn’t sure if that was good or bad.
‘Let’s get back to work. He’s a busy person. I might not have another chance to work with him.’
But the inspiration was all gone now and all that he could think about was how delicious that human smelled and how invitingly his chest was moving.
‘He’s just breathing, that’s all. I’m a decent vampire, right? I can’t just go over there and touch him. Can I...?’
Richard thought hard. ‘Why not? He’s sleeping. He won’t know that I’m touching him. I’ll be gentle. Besides, if I don’t get to touch him now, who knows when I’ll get another chance?’
So he slowly walked towards his boyfriend and sat right in front of him.
‘Oh well, where do I start? What a happy problem!’ Richard was too excited.
The vampire slowly laid his fingers on Rafael’s left shoulder.
‘Oh my God, this is a historic day! I finally got my hands on these biceps!’
Richard closed his eyes and felt the skin and muscles under his fingers. He was slightly worried that Rafael would open his eyes at any minute and accuse him of being a pervert but he decided to risk it. He moved his fingers lower and lower and used his palm to caress the billion-dollar left arm.
‘It looked like he just eats normal food, but how come they’re so big? I always thought that the TV screen was making things look bigger.’
Richard suddenly got up and grabbed a few of his sketches.
‘Yep, I certainly drew in a hurry. They should look a little bigger and this line here should lean more to the left.’
Fortunately, the artistic Richard triumphed over the perverted one and the sculptor got his inspiration back and dived into the pleasure of art once more.
Andy the American was watching Novak put star stickers inside the cover of his coffin.
“Those are supposed to glow in the dark? You know, that’s why I call you a kid.”
“Huh?”
Obviously, Novak was too focused to understand what Andy had just said.
“Never mind. Just carry on with your amazing artwork.”
“Thanks.”
The Serbian vampire held another sticker in his fingers and tried to figure out where its perfect spot would be.
“Aren’t you going to use all of them eventually?” Andy asked, unable to understand why his boyfriend would take so much time between every single sticker.
“Yes, I hope so.”
“No offense, kid, but I really think that where you put it doesn’t matter too much. It’s the harmony over all that’s important here, right?” He felt as if he was speaking to a five year old.
“Yes, I’m glad that you understand it’s all about harmony.” Novak finally put the sticker near the small crescent moon and picked up another one. “It’s just that... it’s difficult on my own because Andy had always...”
The Serb looked at Andy with horror and quickly apologized. “I’m sorry, Andy! I’m really sorry. I just...”
“Hey, it’s fine. You guys have been together forever. I get it.” The American got up from the couch and sat on the carpet next to the vampire.
“So you think I can help?” Andy knew that he had a lot of things to do if he wanted to replace the other Andy’s name in the Serb’s mind.
“You want to help?” Novak looked surprised. He had expected to see the American get upset and go to bed.
“Sure, let me in. And, by the way, don’t you think that I’m doing absolutely fantastic for someone who’s never been in a real relationship?” Andy kissed his boy on the cheek and nibbled on his neck.
“Yep! You’re like the best boyfriend ever!” Novak grinned and gave Andy a sheet of stickers.
“So where do you want me to put all these?”
“Mmm, let’s see... Do you know what the Big Dipper looks like?”
“Of course I do.”
“Well, then would you make a Big Dipper over here while I finish my Little Bear?”
“I could try. Novak, are these... restickable?”
“You’re worried that you might screw up?”
“Yes, I’m worried that if I screw up, you’ll dig those fangs into my neck and turn me into a vamp.” Andy took a good look at the sharp fangs.
“Ha-ha, it doesn’t really work that way. You’re supposed to drink my blood as well so don’t worry. I’ll just leave you human.”
Novak must have found Andy’s theory very funny since he couldn’t stop chuckling.
“Hey, I’m human. I’m not supposed to know that stuff.”
“I know. But as long as you know what the Big Dipper looks like, we’re fine. No need to attack your neck.” The Serb playfully caressed the human’s neck and Andy immediately got goose bumps on his skin.
“You’re scared of me?” Novak grinned maliciously.
“No!” Andy never admitted fear. “I just don’t like people touching me.... was the lame excuse I wanted to come up with but we both know that’s not true.” They both had a good laugh until Andy’s hand sneaked under Novak’s T-shirt.
“Uh, Andy, I think that hand has touched enough of me tonight.”
“I don’t think so.”
“Well, I think so. I want that hand to rather focus on the constellation you wanted to help me with.”
“You know what? Maybe we’ll work better as a team if you do the entire constellation and I do the groping. Both are high forms of art, right?”
Novak gave Andy a face. “Andy, I have to finish this before morning or I’ll have trouble sleeping.”
“Then why did you have to change the whole thing at the first place? The old one looked fine to me.”
“Because I had put all those stars with my ex and now I want to fall asleep thinking about you instead.”
That was all Andy needed to sit up straight and grab the sheet of stars again.
“Ok, you should know that normally I don’t provide these services for free.”
“What do you mean?”
“I rock at putting stickers on.”
“Really?” In his two hundred and fifty years of life had Novak ever heard of someone brag about his ‘putting stickers’ skills.
“Uh-huh. When I was a kid, all my friends wanted me to help them with all sorts of stickers.”
“Well, but you’re not a kid anymore.” Novak pointed out.
Andy shot accusing looks at the Serb. “That hurts but I’ll show you that I can still do it.”
“I don’t need anything too original. I just want a simple Big Dipper.”
“I get that. You’ll get a very artistic simple Big Dipper.”
Novak was slightly worried but he just decided to focus on finishing the Little Bear.
“If you actually make that part of the coffin look all right, I promise I’ll be up for Round 2.” The Serb whispered in the American’s ear.
“You got it!”
Now Andy was more determined to let out his artistic side tonight.
Roger was sitting on the bed, carefully rubbing Carlos’ injured shoulder. He had his lover’s head on his lap and he always liked this position; they felt very close to each other and his Spaniard looked even sexier when he looked up at him.
“Does it hurt, dear?”
“No. I think you’re too gentle actually.”
“Ok, more power then.”
Roger put some more force into his hand but was still extremely cautious. He didn’t want to end up getting slashed in one of those vampiric papers for making Carlos’ injury get worse.
“I saw that your aunt had called when you were in the shower.” Roger spoke gently. “She still lives in Romania, right?”
“Yes, she does.”
“Did you call her back? Is everything okay with her?”
“She’s doing fine.”
The Swiss sensed that Carlos wasn’t telling him everything. Besides, as far as he knew, his aunt only called him when it was his birthday, Vampires’ day or when he won a Grand Slam.
“Carlos?”
“Hmm?”
“Why did she call?”
“She must have read somewhere about my shoulder. She wanted to know if I was all right.”
“Okay. That’s all?”
Carlos looked up nervously. “Yes, that’s all.”
“Really? Because I have a feeling that there was something more. You’ve been pretty quiet after that birthday party and I’m guessing that it has something to do with that call.”
“Why would you think that?”
“Because all you did in between was taking a shower. So unless you suddenly found the bathroom unbearably horrible, something else has got to be on your mind.”
Carlos sighed. “Tell me, why am I living with a smart human? I could’ve picked someone who misses a part of his brain.”
“You’re not into drooling people. That’s why. And, quit changing the subject because it’s not going to work.” Roger put his foot down.
“All right. But promise you won’t be mad and that you’ll support my decision.”
“I’ll have to listen to it, first.”
“No, you will just follow my decision. Or I’m not going to talk about it.” Carlos’ voice was firm enough to send the message clear to the Swiss.
“Fine. Speak.”
“She wants me over at her place so she can help me with my recovery.”
“Wow, that’s great news! When is she expecting you?”
“As soon as possible. She thinks that it would be better for me to take some time off there rather than staying here.”
“She’s got a point, Carlos. We’re all very sorry that you can’t play but you should take a rest during this time. I hope you said yes to her.”
“Of course I said no.”
“Why?”
“Because it’s Wimbledon.”
“And?”
“It’s your Wimbledon. You’re on a mission to defend the title for six times in a row.”
“True, but I don’t see what that has to do with your rest.”
“You need me beside you, Roger. And I need to be with you so that I can feel like I’m helping you.”
Roger laughed. “I’m not a mentally weak person. You know that.”
“Yes, but I also know that the loss in Paris affected your confidence a little.”
“As you say, a little.”
"Roger, it's really a couple of points here and there. Plus, it's a Slam. I can think of at least five players who could challenge you."
The Swiss stopped rubbing. “So you’re saying that you’re going to stay here with me when you can enjoy a lovely Romania?”
“That’s exactly what I plan to do.” Carlos held one of Roger’s hands and planted a kiss on his palm.
“For once, that doesn’t make me feel any better.”
The Spaniard gave the soft hand another kiss before asking. “You want me to go to her place?”
“Of course! Your schedule shouldn’t be affected by me.”
Carlos laughed out at those words. “In case you didn’t notice, my whole life is affected by you.”
“You know what I mean!” Roger wanted to give him a punch on the shoulder but had to direct it towards the ribs.
“Ouch... you’re getting more violent every year.”
“Thank you very much. I live with a vampire who’s so stubborn so I guess my fist adapted to the environment.”
“Hey, I’m not that stubborn.”
“Huh, who are you kidding? I think the only time when you had let me persuade you was when you started sleeping on the bed with me.”
“That was a change of a lifetime, by the way.”
“I know and I appreciate it, but just this once, do you think you can take a break for me? I might do better if I know you’re enjoying your rest in a nice place.”
“If it was two years ago, I would’ve fallen for that but now, no. I know you get more lonely and nervous at nights in Wimbly so no matter how hard you try to persuade me, I’m staying here.”
Carlos put both of his hands over his ears and quickly started humming a tune so that he wouldn’t be able to hear whatever Roger was going to say.
“That is very very childish!” The Swiss raised his voice and Carlos frowned.
“Jesus, you’re going to give me an ear injury.”
“God, I hate myself for loving you.”
“And I love everything in this world, just because you love me.” Carlos grinned like a child and pulled Roger’s head down.
Their kiss always seemed to be perfect but tonight it felt even more. As every single day and night passed by, they knew that they were getting one step closer to being inseparable soul mates.
Juan Carlos was busy reading his fan letters with Marat on his bed who was helping him unwrap his presents.
“You got another stupid, useless key holder. Maybe this guy works in a souvenir shop. Why would anyone want to give someone a key holder?”
“Marat, they’re from my fans. A little more respect and a little less insult won’t hurt too much.”
“But their choices seem to be so wrong. Even I could’ve picked something better for you.”
Juan Carlos lowered his glasses with a finger and asked. “When was the last time you picked something for me?”
Marat had trouble answering.
“I thought so.” The Spaniard adjusted his glasses and went back reading.
“You’ve got me as your present.” Marat tried to sound cute even though he was having goose bumps everywhere.
Juan Carlos snorted and didn’t say another word.
The Russian couldn’t believe that his lover had just snorted when he managed to say such a romantic line.
“Did you just snort?”
Juan Carlos didn’t even look up. “No, Marat, I’m busy reading.”
“But you snorted. You made that weird noise with your nose.”
The Spaniard looked at his lover with a very annoyed expression on his face. “I’m grateful that such a romantic, nice looking guy like you is staying with me. Everyday with you is like a present and a bonus for me, okay?”
And the hotel owner simply went back to his letters, leaving Marat with his mouth wide open. “You don’t even mean it.”
“I do mean it. Why don’t you open another present for me and tell me what’s in it?”
The Russian started unwrapping another present and realized that Juan Carlos seemed to be reading the same letter over and over again.
‘That doesn’t look good.’
He snatched the envelope from his lover’s hands and saw that it was sent from London.
‘So whoever lives here sent him a great letter. Well, it’s the country of Shakespeare so maybe I shouldn’t be too surprised.’
Marat just dropped the issue and continued unwrapping presents while Juan Carlos was still mesmerized by a letter. The guy was ridiculously romantic but the Spaniard had to admit that he didn’t hate reading his letters. This guy seemed to travel a lot because he was a journalist. Juan Carlos had become aware of his presence because he had kept sending letters with a Shakespearean sonnet in each of them. If his memory served him right, he had already received five of his letters. This time, it was sonnet 27.
Weary with toil, I haste me to my bed,
The dear repose for limbs with travel tired;
But then begins a journey in my head
To work my mind, when body's work's expired:
For then my thoughts--from far where I abide--
Intend a zealous pilgrimage to thee,
And keep my drooping eyelids open wide,
Looking on darkness which the blind do see:
Save that my soul's imaginary sight
Presents thy shadow to my sightless view,
Which, like a jewel hung in ghastly night,
Makes black night beauteous, and her old face new.
Lo! thus, by day my limbs, by night my mind,
For thee, and for myself, no quiet find.
‘This is beautiful.’
Juan Carlos loved poetry but with the very little amount of spare time he had, he never really managed to read some.
‘How could he possibly send me such a beautiful sonnet when he hasn’t even met me? Was there ever a journalist who was nice to me?’
He couldn’t think of anyone in particular.
‘Hmm, I hope I can meet him someday and offer my thanks to him.’
Juan Carlos carefully folded the letter back in half and put it inside the top drawer near his bed, not knowing that Marat’s eyes were following his every movement.
# Modern text of the Sonnet 27:
Weary from work, I hasten to my bed, the sweet place of rest for a body tired out from laboring. But then I start to go on a journey in my head, making my mind work after my body's work is finished. Because when I go to bed, my thoughts begin the trip from where I am, far away from you, to where you are. They keep my weary eyes wide open, staring at the darkness like blind people do. Except, in my imagination, I see your image, though it's too dark to see anything else. Like a shining jewel hanging in the terrifying night, your image makes that old, black night look beautiful and young. See, because of you, my body does not rest in the daytime and my mind finds no peace at night.
Pairing: Nadal/Gasquet, Djokovic/Roddick, Safin/Ferrero, Federer/Moya
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters and this is a fiction.
Summary: Richard has got Rafael in his atelier while Andy Roddick and Novak try to establish a real relationship. Carlos speaks to Roger about his schedule while Juan Carlos gets attached to a fan letter.
Author's note: For those who would like to read a modern text of the sonnet 27, please find it at the very end :)
From the previous chapter:
Rafael agreed to pose for Richard’s sculpture while Andy Murray decided to play fair to get Novak back. Janko felt bad for Mario who has feelings for their boss but Marat has no idea about it.
Chapter 10: Filled with love
Soft music was surrounding the atelier but Rafael was unbelievably uncomfortable. He assumed that Richard had put music on to make him feel relaxed but it was having the exactly opposite effect on him.
‘Vampires are scary. Now I can tell.’
The human had to admit that the melody itself wasn’t too bad but it was rather the lyrics that bothered him.
Come into the dark with me
Sharpen your fangs so we can taste it
Can you smell that? It’s the purest blood ever
Now let’s drink together before the evil Sun forces us apart
“Um... Richie, what’s the title of this song?”
“Drink in the dark. Why? You like it?” Richard beamed and Rafael did his best to make his lips form something similar to a smile.
“Oh, you don’t.” The French sounded disappointed.
“The melody’s very nice.” Rafael spoke in hopes of seeing a bright Richard again.
“Well, I prefer the lyrics but yes, I suppose the melody’s nice as well.”
The Spaniard moved a little in frustration and earned a yell.
“Don’t move, Rafa! It’s already the third time that you moved!”
“Sorry.”
It wasn’t that he was posing in an uncomfortable position but actually quite the contrary. Richard had wanted him on a rug and had asked him to roll onto his side with a cushion under his head. So it was as if he was sleeping with his jeans on but still, Rafael found it difficult to stay still.
‘Well, at least this weird music seems to help him draw. He looks more focused now.’
The French was busy moving his hand in front of an easel while the Spaniard felt sleepy and sleepy as time passed by. Richard heard Rafael yawn and looked up at him.
“Sorry, Rafa. I know it’s very late.”
“It’s ok. Don’t worry.”
“You know what? If you don’t move too much in your sleep, you can just close your eyes and go to sleep right there.” Richard knew that he was acting selfish. He had to send the human back to his own room but he was enjoying the inspiration of his life which made it difficult for him to let his boyfriend go.
Rafael looked at Richard in disbelief. ‘I know that I look strong but I don’t like to sleep on rugs, no?’
He figured that any artist would want to keep his model in place as long as he could, so he just nodded. “Ok. Good night, then.”
As Rafael’s eyes closed, Richard jumped up and almost ran towards him. By the time the Spaniard had opened his eyes again to see what was going on, he was getting a good night kiss.
“Do not move, Rafa.”
“But you’re kissing me.”
“I just need your lips, not your arms.”
“But I want to hold you too.”
“You can do it tomorrow.”
While Rafael pouted a little, Richard wished him good night before heading back to where his easel was standing. The human already had a blanket covering his jeans but Richard was still worried that he might catch a cold.
‘I’ll have to finish what I need to do very quickly! Humans are going to kill me if they find out that I made him sick.’
The French sat down to get back to work when an idea popped in his head. ‘He’s asleep so I can go a little closer, right?’
The sculptor quietly moved his easel near his model who was fast asleep and realized that his heart was pounding.
‘Ok, maybe that was too close. Let’s go back a little.’
Only after five minutes was Richard able to find the exact spot where he could have a better view of Rafael’s body and still be able to focus on his artwork. He had already finished numerous sketches from various angles and thought that it was his fastest working speed ever.
‘Hmm, I feel like my hand is flying...’
Richard was moving his easel once more to the right when he heard a disturbing moan.
‘Is he having bad dreams?’
But when the next moan was much longer and more sensual, Richard’s eyes shot wide open.
‘Okay... it sounds like he’s having good dreams.’
Another moan escaped Rafael’s lips.
‘Very good dreams!’
The French got up and turned the music off. Now he could hear his boyfriend’s breathing much louder. Rafael’s moans had stopped and Richard wasn’t sure if that was good or bad.
‘Let’s get back to work. He’s a busy person. I might not have another chance to work with him.’
But the inspiration was all gone now and all that he could think about was how delicious that human smelled and how invitingly his chest was moving.
‘He’s just breathing, that’s all. I’m a decent vampire, right? I can’t just go over there and touch him. Can I...?’
Richard thought hard. ‘Why not? He’s sleeping. He won’t know that I’m touching him. I’ll be gentle. Besides, if I don’t get to touch him now, who knows when I’ll get another chance?’
So he slowly walked towards his boyfriend and sat right in front of him.
‘Oh well, where do I start? What a happy problem!’ Richard was too excited.
The vampire slowly laid his fingers on Rafael’s left shoulder.
‘Oh my God, this is a historic day! I finally got my hands on these biceps!’
Richard closed his eyes and felt the skin and muscles under his fingers. He was slightly worried that Rafael would open his eyes at any minute and accuse him of being a pervert but he decided to risk it. He moved his fingers lower and lower and used his palm to caress the billion-dollar left arm.
‘It looked like he just eats normal food, but how come they’re so big? I always thought that the TV screen was making things look bigger.’
Richard suddenly got up and grabbed a few of his sketches.
‘Yep, I certainly drew in a hurry. They should look a little bigger and this line here should lean more to the left.’
Fortunately, the artistic Richard triumphed over the perverted one and the sculptor got his inspiration back and dived into the pleasure of art once more.
Andy the American was watching Novak put star stickers inside the cover of his coffin.
“Those are supposed to glow in the dark? You know, that’s why I call you a kid.”
“Huh?”
Obviously, Novak was too focused to understand what Andy had just said.
“Never mind. Just carry on with your amazing artwork.”
“Thanks.”
The Serbian vampire held another sticker in his fingers and tried to figure out where its perfect spot would be.
“Aren’t you going to use all of them eventually?” Andy asked, unable to understand why his boyfriend would take so much time between every single sticker.
“Yes, I hope so.”
“No offense, kid, but I really think that where you put it doesn’t matter too much. It’s the harmony over all that’s important here, right?” He felt as if he was speaking to a five year old.
“Yes, I’m glad that you understand it’s all about harmony.” Novak finally put the sticker near the small crescent moon and picked up another one. “It’s just that... it’s difficult on my own because Andy had always...”
The Serb looked at Andy with horror and quickly apologized. “I’m sorry, Andy! I’m really sorry. I just...”
“Hey, it’s fine. You guys have been together forever. I get it.” The American got up from the couch and sat on the carpet next to the vampire.
“So you think I can help?” Andy knew that he had a lot of things to do if he wanted to replace the other Andy’s name in the Serb’s mind.
“You want to help?” Novak looked surprised. He had expected to see the American get upset and go to bed.
“Sure, let me in. And, by the way, don’t you think that I’m doing absolutely fantastic for someone who’s never been in a real relationship?” Andy kissed his boy on the cheek and nibbled on his neck.
“Yep! You’re like the best boyfriend ever!” Novak grinned and gave Andy a sheet of stickers.
“So where do you want me to put all these?”
“Mmm, let’s see... Do you know what the Big Dipper looks like?”
“Of course I do.”
“Well, then would you make a Big Dipper over here while I finish my Little Bear?”
“I could try. Novak, are these... restickable?”
“You’re worried that you might screw up?”
“Yes, I’m worried that if I screw up, you’ll dig those fangs into my neck and turn me into a vamp.” Andy took a good look at the sharp fangs.
“Ha-ha, it doesn’t really work that way. You’re supposed to drink my blood as well so don’t worry. I’ll just leave you human.”
Novak must have found Andy’s theory very funny since he couldn’t stop chuckling.
“Hey, I’m human. I’m not supposed to know that stuff.”
“I know. But as long as you know what the Big Dipper looks like, we’re fine. No need to attack your neck.” The Serb playfully caressed the human’s neck and Andy immediately got goose bumps on his skin.
“You’re scared of me?” Novak grinned maliciously.
“No!” Andy never admitted fear. “I just don’t like people touching me.... was the lame excuse I wanted to come up with but we both know that’s not true.” They both had a good laugh until Andy’s hand sneaked under Novak’s T-shirt.
“Uh, Andy, I think that hand has touched enough of me tonight.”
“I don’t think so.”
“Well, I think so. I want that hand to rather focus on the constellation you wanted to help me with.”
“You know what? Maybe we’ll work better as a team if you do the entire constellation and I do the groping. Both are high forms of art, right?”
Novak gave Andy a face. “Andy, I have to finish this before morning or I’ll have trouble sleeping.”
“Then why did you have to change the whole thing at the first place? The old one looked fine to me.”
“Because I had put all those stars with my ex and now I want to fall asleep thinking about you instead.”
That was all Andy needed to sit up straight and grab the sheet of stars again.
“Ok, you should know that normally I don’t provide these services for free.”
“What do you mean?”
“I rock at putting stickers on.”
“Really?” In his two hundred and fifty years of life had Novak ever heard of someone brag about his ‘putting stickers’ skills.
“Uh-huh. When I was a kid, all my friends wanted me to help them with all sorts of stickers.”
“Well, but you’re not a kid anymore.” Novak pointed out.
Andy shot accusing looks at the Serb. “That hurts but I’ll show you that I can still do it.”
“I don’t need anything too original. I just want a simple Big Dipper.”
“I get that. You’ll get a very artistic simple Big Dipper.”
Novak was slightly worried but he just decided to focus on finishing the Little Bear.
“If you actually make that part of the coffin look all right, I promise I’ll be up for Round 2.” The Serb whispered in the American’s ear.
“You got it!”
Now Andy was more determined to let out his artistic side tonight.
Roger was sitting on the bed, carefully rubbing Carlos’ injured shoulder. He had his lover’s head on his lap and he always liked this position; they felt very close to each other and his Spaniard looked even sexier when he looked up at him.
“Does it hurt, dear?”
“No. I think you’re too gentle actually.”
“Ok, more power then.”
Roger put some more force into his hand but was still extremely cautious. He didn’t want to end up getting slashed in one of those vampiric papers for making Carlos’ injury get worse.
“I saw that your aunt had called when you were in the shower.” Roger spoke gently. “She still lives in Romania, right?”
“Yes, she does.”
“Did you call her back? Is everything okay with her?”
“She’s doing fine.”
The Swiss sensed that Carlos wasn’t telling him everything. Besides, as far as he knew, his aunt only called him when it was his birthday, Vampires’ day or when he won a Grand Slam.
“Carlos?”
“Hmm?”
“Why did she call?”
“She must have read somewhere about my shoulder. She wanted to know if I was all right.”
“Okay. That’s all?”
Carlos looked up nervously. “Yes, that’s all.”
“Really? Because I have a feeling that there was something more. You’ve been pretty quiet after that birthday party and I’m guessing that it has something to do with that call.”
“Why would you think that?”
“Because all you did in between was taking a shower. So unless you suddenly found the bathroom unbearably horrible, something else has got to be on your mind.”
Carlos sighed. “Tell me, why am I living with a smart human? I could’ve picked someone who misses a part of his brain.”
“You’re not into drooling people. That’s why. And, quit changing the subject because it’s not going to work.” Roger put his foot down.
“All right. But promise you won’t be mad and that you’ll support my decision.”
“I’ll have to listen to it, first.”
“No, you will just follow my decision. Or I’m not going to talk about it.” Carlos’ voice was firm enough to send the message clear to the Swiss.
“Fine. Speak.”
“She wants me over at her place so she can help me with my recovery.”
“Wow, that’s great news! When is she expecting you?”
“As soon as possible. She thinks that it would be better for me to take some time off there rather than staying here.”
“She’s got a point, Carlos. We’re all very sorry that you can’t play but you should take a rest during this time. I hope you said yes to her.”
“Of course I said no.”
“Why?”
“Because it’s Wimbledon.”
“And?”
“It’s your Wimbledon. You’re on a mission to defend the title for six times in a row.”
“True, but I don’t see what that has to do with your rest.”
“You need me beside you, Roger. And I need to be with you so that I can feel like I’m helping you.”
Roger laughed. “I’m not a mentally weak person. You know that.”
“Yes, but I also know that the loss in Paris affected your confidence a little.”
“As you say, a little.”
"Roger, it's really a couple of points here and there. Plus, it's a Slam. I can think of at least five players who could challenge you."
The Swiss stopped rubbing. “So you’re saying that you’re going to stay here with me when you can enjoy a lovely Romania?”
“That’s exactly what I plan to do.” Carlos held one of Roger’s hands and planted a kiss on his palm.
“For once, that doesn’t make me feel any better.”
The Spaniard gave the soft hand another kiss before asking. “You want me to go to her place?”
“Of course! Your schedule shouldn’t be affected by me.”
Carlos laughed out at those words. “In case you didn’t notice, my whole life is affected by you.”
“You know what I mean!” Roger wanted to give him a punch on the shoulder but had to direct it towards the ribs.
“Ouch... you’re getting more violent every year.”
“Thank you very much. I live with a vampire who’s so stubborn so I guess my fist adapted to the environment.”
“Hey, I’m not that stubborn.”
“Huh, who are you kidding? I think the only time when you had let me persuade you was when you started sleeping on the bed with me.”
“That was a change of a lifetime, by the way.”
“I know and I appreciate it, but just this once, do you think you can take a break for me? I might do better if I know you’re enjoying your rest in a nice place.”
“If it was two years ago, I would’ve fallen for that but now, no. I know you get more lonely and nervous at nights in Wimbly so no matter how hard you try to persuade me, I’m staying here.”
Carlos put both of his hands over his ears and quickly started humming a tune so that he wouldn’t be able to hear whatever Roger was going to say.
“That is very very childish!” The Swiss raised his voice and Carlos frowned.
“Jesus, you’re going to give me an ear injury.”
“God, I hate myself for loving you.”
“And I love everything in this world, just because you love me.” Carlos grinned like a child and pulled Roger’s head down.
Their kiss always seemed to be perfect but tonight it felt even more. As every single day and night passed by, they knew that they were getting one step closer to being inseparable soul mates.
Juan Carlos was busy reading his fan letters with Marat on his bed who was helping him unwrap his presents.
“You got another stupid, useless key holder. Maybe this guy works in a souvenir shop. Why would anyone want to give someone a key holder?”
“Marat, they’re from my fans. A little more respect and a little less insult won’t hurt too much.”
“But their choices seem to be so wrong. Even I could’ve picked something better for you.”
Juan Carlos lowered his glasses with a finger and asked. “When was the last time you picked something for me?”
Marat had trouble answering.
“I thought so.” The Spaniard adjusted his glasses and went back reading.
“You’ve got me as your present.” Marat tried to sound cute even though he was having goose bumps everywhere.
Juan Carlos snorted and didn’t say another word.
The Russian couldn’t believe that his lover had just snorted when he managed to say such a romantic line.
“Did you just snort?”
Juan Carlos didn’t even look up. “No, Marat, I’m busy reading.”
“But you snorted. You made that weird noise with your nose.”
The Spaniard looked at his lover with a very annoyed expression on his face. “I’m grateful that such a romantic, nice looking guy like you is staying with me. Everyday with you is like a present and a bonus for me, okay?”
And the hotel owner simply went back to his letters, leaving Marat with his mouth wide open. “You don’t even mean it.”
“I do mean it. Why don’t you open another present for me and tell me what’s in it?”
The Russian started unwrapping another present and realized that Juan Carlos seemed to be reading the same letter over and over again.
‘That doesn’t look good.’
He snatched the envelope from his lover’s hands and saw that it was sent from London.
‘So whoever lives here sent him a great letter. Well, it’s the country of Shakespeare so maybe I shouldn’t be too surprised.’
Marat just dropped the issue and continued unwrapping presents while Juan Carlos was still mesmerized by a letter. The guy was ridiculously romantic but the Spaniard had to admit that he didn’t hate reading his letters. This guy seemed to travel a lot because he was a journalist. Juan Carlos had become aware of his presence because he had kept sending letters with a Shakespearean sonnet in each of them. If his memory served him right, he had already received five of his letters. This time, it was sonnet 27.
Weary with toil, I haste me to my bed,
The dear repose for limbs with travel tired;
But then begins a journey in my head
To work my mind, when body's work's expired:
For then my thoughts--from far where I abide--
Intend a zealous pilgrimage to thee,
And keep my drooping eyelids open wide,
Looking on darkness which the blind do see:
Save that my soul's imaginary sight
Presents thy shadow to my sightless view,
Which, like a jewel hung in ghastly night,
Makes black night beauteous, and her old face new.
Lo! thus, by day my limbs, by night my mind,
For thee, and for myself, no quiet find.
‘This is beautiful.’
Juan Carlos loved poetry but with the very little amount of spare time he had, he never really managed to read some.
‘How could he possibly send me such a beautiful sonnet when he hasn’t even met me? Was there ever a journalist who was nice to me?’
He couldn’t think of anyone in particular.
‘Hmm, I hope I can meet him someday and offer my thanks to him.’
Juan Carlos carefully folded the letter back in half and put it inside the top drawer near his bed, not knowing that Marat’s eyes were following his every movement.
# Modern text of the Sonnet 27:
Weary from work, I hasten to my bed, the sweet place of rest for a body tired out from laboring. But then I start to go on a journey in my head, making my mind work after my body's work is finished. Because when I go to bed, my thoughts begin the trip from where I am, far away from you, to where you are. They keep my weary eyes wide open, staring at the darkness like blind people do. Except, in my imagination, I see your image, though it's too dark to see anything else. Like a shining jewel hanging in the terrifying night, your image makes that old, black night look beautiful and young. See, because of you, my body does not rest in the daytime and my mind finds no peace at night.