Breaking the Habit part two
Title: Breaking the Habit (2/2)
Fandom: Whose Line UK
Pairings: Tony/Greg, Ryan/Colin, Chip/Wayne
Rating: PG to PG-13 for occasional strong language
Summary: New Year is a time for new starts - and this one is no different.
Disclaimer: This fic is in no way intended to portray a true representation of the people involved. As far as I know, this never happened.
Note: Finally, the second half! Sorry it's taken a while, I was having trouble getting going - but once I started, it ran a bit more smoothly.
Cross-posted to britline, whoselineslash and wl_fanfiction. Submitted to fanfic100 for prompt 095 - New Year.
Breaking The Habit
Part Two
"I'm not going."
Greg sighed quietly, his shoulders slumping as he heard the words he'd been hearing ever since the invitation had arrived. He looked up from where he had been riffling through his wardrobe, forcing the frustration out of his voice as he replied, "We've been through this a hundred times already. We're going."
"I'm sorry, I just can't." Tony absently picked at the duvet cover of Greg's bed, which he was currently sat on. "You go ahead. It's you they'll want to see anyway."
Greg walked over to the bed and knelt in front of Tony. "I'm not going to leave you here alone, on New Year's Eve of all nights." He lightly touched Tony's arm. "You don't have to tell them, and if you do, they'll understand."
Tony swallowed gently as he met Greg's gaze. "I just don't want to ruin your night."
"Believe me, you'll do that more by not coming. Look, please at least come for a couple of hours. If you hate it, we'll come home, I promise." Greg gave him a hopeful smile. "Please?"
"Well, when you put it like that..." Tony looked down. "I'm sorry, Greg. This hasn't been much of a break for you, what with everything..."
"Tony, don't you dare even go there." Greg moved to sit beside his friend. "I wouldn't change a thing that's happened while you've been here. At least now we know what's behind it all."
Tony bit his lip. "You know I appreciate it, Greg. Everything you've done for me...I can't ever thank you enough."
"Oh, come here." Greg pulled Tony into a hug. "No need to thank me, you silly man. You're my friend. Can you imagine if I'd left you to spend Christmas alone?"
Tony whimpered slightly. "I'd rather not."
"Well, you don't have to." Greg gently kissed the top of his head. "Now, Colin will be here at about eight, so do you want the bathroom first?"
Tony looked up, a small smile on his face. "Thanks, Greg. I'm glad you stayed willing to put up with me."
"Was never a question," Greg shot back, pulling away slightly. "Now go on. You know how Mr Mochrie is a stickler for timekeeping."
~*~
Greg was sat in the living room when the doorbell rang. He glanced at the clock - five to eight. Early as usual, he thought to himself as he went to open the door. As he passed the stairs, he called up, "That'll be Colin. He's early, so don't worry."
Opening the door, he quipped, "Good job I know to expect you five minutes before your stated time of arrival."
Colin just grinned. "Better early than late. You ready?"
Greg moved back to let Colin in. "I am, not sure about Tony. My fault, I forgot to mention that by 'eight' I meant 'before eight'."
Colin walked into the hallway, turning back to face Greg as he asked, "But he is coming?"
"Last I know, yes he is." Greg couldn't help but frown a little. "Ryan with you?"
"He won't say anything," Colin promised. "How is he?"
"Okay, I'm ready."
Colin and Greg both looked up as Tony came downstairs, looking as if he hadn't a care in the world. Greg grinned widely. "Well, don't you scrub up well."
"Hey Tony, how are you? Delighted you're going to be joining us tonight." Colin smiled warmly. "You look well."
"Please, I look like I haven't slept in months. Probably because I haven't, but I do wish it wasn't so obvious." Tony shrugged a little, his tone still bright.
Greg frowned a little. "Tony..."
"What? Look, I'm not going to turn up and announce it to the whole world, but I think given what an arse I've been to Colin, he deserves to know." Tony turned back to Colin. "Sorry. It's just..."
As Tony's voice faltered, Greg stepped in. "I made him see a doctor while he's been staying with me, and we now know why Tony's been so off-balance."
Colin nodded. "Don't feel you have to give me details," he offered. "I appreciate the sentiment, Tony, but if you'd rather I didn't know..."
"Well, they want me to go back and see some specialists next week to be sure, but they're mostly certain I'm bipolar." Tony stared at the floor in a bid to avoid looking at Colin.
Colin placed a reassuring hand on Tony's arm. "Tony, it's okay. It's not like you brought it on yourself. If I can help in any way, just let me know."
"We'd better go," Greg said gently. "If Ryan's in the car waiting..."
"It's okay, Wayne's with him. Chip's running late, so he's making his own way down." Colin turned back to Tony. "You'll like Wayne. He's like a big ball of energy with legs."
"And on that mental image," Greg teased. "Shall we?"
Tony nodded. "Just let me get my coat."
As the three friends left the house, Colin turned to Tony. "Will you be okay up front? If Ryan stays where he is, it may get a little cramped in back."
"As long as he doesn't mind." Tony fidgeted with his hands. "After all, I shouldn't even be here..."
"Stop that now, mister!" Greg linked arms with Tony. "I told them all that you'd be with me, and they're excited to see you."
Tony was about to reply when he noticed Ryan stood outside the car, along with another man he didn't recognise and so presumed must be Wayne. Instinctively, he pulled a little closer to Greg.
Greg gave him a reassuring smile. "It'll be okay," he murmured. Stopping suddenly, he said in a louder tone, "Oh shoot! I've forgotten something. Tony, will you help me find it?"
Colin smiled a little in understanding. "Do you mind, Tony?"
Tony shook his head, though his tone was shaky. "I don't think I could," he whispered.
Greg nodded and led Tony back to the house. Colin watched them go, before returning to his car.
Ryan frowned a little. "Everything okay? Or is Mr Slattery having one of his drama queen moments?"
"Ryan, please." Colin gave his partner a pleading look. "The way Tony's been acting...it's not his fault. Greg made him see a doctor, and they're almost certain he's bipolar. So...please, honey, just give him another chance."
Ryan nodded, clearly chastened. "You're right, Col, I'm sorry...is he okay?"
"Seems to be. Staying with Greg seems to be doing him the world of good." Colin smiled at Ryan. "Just be nice."
"Greg!"
Ryan and Colin both looked up at Wayne's exclamation; Wayne was already halfway down the pathway and had pulled Greg into a big hug. Beside them, Tony watched, clearly bemused.
Greg laughed as he pulled back from Wayne a little. "Hey, you. How are you? Leaving the house without Chip, are you sure you're alright?"
"We can arrive at things separately, you know," Wayne shot back, before turning to the Brit. "Ah, you must be Tony. Heard a lot of good things about you, man. Wayne Brady, pleasure to meet you."
"Likewise," Tony replied. "I've always wanted to meet the Energiser Bunny."
Wayne grinned. Turning to Greg, he asked, "Can we keep him?"
"He's not a pet, Wayne," Greg reprimanded, though he couldn't hide the amusement in his voice. "Now come on. Colin'll have a coronary if we delay him any longer."
He gently pushed Wayne back towards the car, before offering a hand to Tony. "Let's get this show on the road."
Tony nodded, and allowed Greg to lead him to the car. He forced himself to keep his head up and smile as he approached, masking the fact that seeing Ryan made him want to turn and run back into the house, no matter how much Greg tried to make him stay.
Colin smiled as the pair approached. "You find it?"
"Yes, thank you Colin." Greg smirked. "I am deeply remorseful for the delay I've caused."
"Do you want to walk?" Colin threatened playfully.
"Sorry, Mr M." Greg put on his best chastened look. "Please let me come in the nice warm car."
Ryan chuckled. "As if you expect any different. Serves you right, though, for not wearing a better coat."
"Now now, children." Colin took an authoritative tone. "Now Ryan, do you mind if Tony sits in front and you sit behind him? Should be less uncomfortable for you all."
"Not at all." Ryan turned to Tony. "Glad to see you decided to join us. It's a good job not everyone's as pig-headed as I am." He offered a small, genuine smile.
Tony returned the smile, though he was still a little wary. "I can't say I ever blamed you," he offered in response. "I've not exactly been the easiest person to be around."
"Hey, new year, new start." Ryan's smile widened. "Now come on. If Chip beats us there, we'll never live it down."
~*~
"Guys! You made it!"
As the group of five friends walked into the room, they were instantly met by Brad Sherwood. Colin was the first to respond. "Hey Brad. Nice set-up here."
"You know Dan. No expense spared, as long as we remember it's an incentive for us to keep working hard." Brad surveyed the rest of the group. "No Chip?"
"He's running late," Ryan explained. "We would have waited for him, only we had to get Greg and Tony, and someone refused to phone ahead to ask if they minded." He shot a teasing look at Colin as he spoke.
"Which," Greg joined in, "for the record, we wouldn't have."
"And to think I'm staying sober so you can all have a good time without worrying about getting home." Colin pouted.
"Well, if it wasn't for the fact that your car would end up back at Greg's, I'd offer to do the return drive," Tony piped up.
Ryan raised an eyebrow. "Not drinking?"
"It's really not a good idea." Tony shrugged. "Not unless you want to see me go into extremely annoying twat mode in front of a bunch of people, half of whom I don't even know."
"I appreciate the offer," said Colin. "To be honest, I rather enjoy making sure everyone's home safely. But thank you."
"Hold on a sec." Ryan frowned a little. "Sudden thought - there'll be six of us on the way home."
"Well, Tony and I can get a cab home if it's easier," Greg offered. "Stops you going so far out of your way, too."
"We'll find a way to get you all in," Colin told them. "Chip and Wayne will practically be sitting on each other as it is."
"Hey! No talking about me when I'm not here to deny or defend."
"Chip!" Wayne immediately drew the newcomer into a hug. "Missed you."
Brad smirked. "Well, that's those two gone for the rest of the night." He turned to Tony, seemingly noticing him for the first time. "Ah, you must be..."
"This is Tony," Greg cut in. "He's been staying with me over the holiday period. Be nice."
"As if I'm ever anything but." Brad offered a hand. "I'm Brad. Don't believe anything you've heard about me, especially not from him," he quipped, pointing at Colin.
Tony took the offered hand. "Well in response, I will say don't believe anything you've heard about me, especially if it comes from him." He indicated Ryan as he spoke.
Chip looked up as he heard this. "Tony! Hey, how are you? Long time no see."
"Indeed," Tony replied. "I suppose I don't need to ask how you are."
"Loved-up and loving every minute." Chip grinned. "But I suppose that's obvious."
Greg rolled his eyes. "Come on, let's get out and mingle. I'm sure we'll all find each other when it's time to leave."
"We want Tony!" Wayne practically skipped over to link arms with the bemused Brit. "No fair that you guys who work with him all the time get to hog him tonight as well."
Tony shrugged. "I suppose I'm going with Wayne and Chip then. Wish me luck."
Greg laughed a little. "Well, you boys play nice and look after him. I'll be checking on you later."
Chip smirked. "We'll have him back in one piece. We promise."
~*~
A few hours later, the party was in full swing. Any latecomers, anyone delayed due to problems with transport, had now arrived and now everyone was simply partying their way towards midnight.
Greg was chatting to some of the production team when he happened to look up and spotted Tony sat alone at the edge of the room. Immediately concerned, he excused himself from the conversation and made his way over.
"Tony?"
Tony looked up sharply, clearly startled. "Oh, hey Greg. Sorry, I was miles away."
"I'd noticed." Greg took a seat beside his friend. "Everything okay?"
Tony nodded. "I'm fine, Greg, honestly. I just...needed a bit of time out, that's all."
"I understand." Greg rested a hand on Tony's leg. "Want me to leave you be?"
"You can stay if you want. I know I'm a lot calmer when I'm with you." Tony blushed. "That was something I never meant to say out loud."
"I'm glad you did, though." Greg smiled. "If it makes you feel better, it's always a good thing. And I'm extremely glad to hear that I make you feel better."
Suddenly, a voice called out, "Minute to midnight!"
Tony allowed himself a small smile. "Fresh year, fresh start."
"That's the plan," Greg agreed. "And I'll be with you every step of the way, if you'll let me."
As the rest of the party began the final countdown to the New Year, Tony and Greg simply looked at each other. As he met Greg's gaze, Tony had a sudden, irrepressible urge. He knew he was probably about to make an utter prat of himself, but he also knew he had to at least try.
"Three...two...one...HAPPY NEW YEAR!"
As cheers rang out around the room, Tony took his courage in hand, and leant in to kiss Greg. Convinced he would be rejected, the last thing he'd expected was for Greg to pull him closer, stopping any thoughts he had of pulling away anytime soon.
Greg shifted forward, to be as close as possible to Tony without either of them falling off their chairs. He couldn't believe this was happening, something he had wanted for so long but had never dreamt he would actually get. Tentatively, testing Tony's intention, he flicked his tongue out a little in a request to deepen the kiss.
Tony pulled back, though clearly reluctantly. His eyes held a thousand questions, but somehow none of them made it to his mouth. He shifted his chair as close as it would go to Greg's, finally managing to utter, "That's better. Now, where were we?"
Greg smiled, reaching up to brush the stray forelock of hair from Tony's face. "Well I don't know about you, but I was kissing the most wonderful man I've ever met."
"I really should introduce you to yourself sometime, then," Tony quipped. "If it weren't for you, I'd be back in England, wallowing in my own self-loathing and despair."
"We're going to make you better," Greg promised. "You can stay as long as you need to while they work out exactly what's wrong, and what you need, and I will do whatever it is I have to if it'll help you get back to some form of normal."
"Thank you." Tony smiled. "Do I get to kiss you again now?"
~*~
An hour later, Ryan turned to Colin. "You want to head home, sweetie? It's a long drive, and you look about ready to drop as it is."
Colin smiled. "I thought I was supposed to be the father figure."
"You are. I'm playing mother." Ryan stuck his tongue out at his partner. "Want me to round up the troops?"
"Divide and conquer," Colin replied. "You hunt down the terror twins, and I'll find Tony and Greg. Meet back here, and we'll head off."
Ryan nodded. "Well, at least I got the easy job." He pointed to where Wayne and Chip were holding court at a table, both long past the tipsy stage. "Well, depending on how you define easy, that is."
Colin chuckled. "Good luck," he offered, before beginning his search for Greg and Tony. It took him several minutes, not least because he had decided to say his goodbyes to everyone while he looked, but he eventually found them both sat at the edge of the room, Greg's arm around Tony and Tony's head on Greg's shoulder.
Smiling to himself, Colin headed over and asked, "You okay to leave? Ryan's taking my role of over-protective from me."
Greg nodded. "We were about to come find you anyway. Tony's exhausted, and I'm hoping it means he'll actually get some sleep tonight."
Colin was unable to conceal his grin any longer. "Well look at that, you've got our act down perfectly already."
Greg returned the grin as he replied, "You and Ryan are a pretty good benchmark, but then we all knew you two would end up together anyway."
"I remember the sweepstake," Colin shot back. "Not that this is all that much more of a surprise. You always were that touch too defensive."
"No such thing." Greg looked down at Tony, who had shown no sign of even being aware that Colin had joined them. "Tony? It's time for us to head home now, darling."
Tony finally looked up, blushing slightly as he spotted Colin. "Sorry. I actually think I dozed off there a little."
"Well, that's a good sign. Shall we?" Greg moved to stand, helping Tony to his feet at the same time. "Before Ryan accuses us of abusing our dear friend Colin here."
Colin grinned. "He never could. I wouldn't let him, even if he tried."
The three friends made their way back to the meeting point, where Ryan was already stood waiting with Wayne and Chip. As soon as he spotted Greg's arm around Tony, Wayne blurted out, "Oh, look at you two!"
Greg smirked. "I know, we are rather beautiful, but please. Your flattery is embarrassing."
"Does this mean we risk the discomfort of me being in front?" Ryan asked knowingly.
Greg shot him a grateful look. "Thanks, Ry. I don't think Colin would appreciate this one dribbling on the handbrake."
"Hey!" Tony pouted. "I'm tired, I'm not deaf. Besides, Ryan just wants the excuse to sit at the front."
"Well then, it works out best for all of us." Ryan grinned. "Come on. Let's head back and prepare ourselves for the year ahead."
As the group made their way to leave, Greg looked at Tony. "Thank you."
Tony looked confused. "What for?"
"For being you, and for letting me this close." Greg kissed the other man's shoulder. "I promise I won't make you regret it."
"I know you won't," Tony replied. "Ever since this nightmare started, you've been the one constant in my life. I'm not about to delude myself that this could be anything but good for me."
~*~
"Here we are."
As Colin pulled up outside Greg's house, Greg gently shook the man curled up in his arms. "Tony, dearest. We're home."
Tony's eyes fluttered open, blinking a couple of times as he reminded himself where he was. "Oh god, sorry. I haven't been very good company, have I?"
"You needed it," Ryan told him, before Greg could. "We'll see you guys soon."
"Oh and Tony?" Colin turned to face the Brit. "Good luck."
"Thank you." Tony smiled a little, before turning back to Greg. "Come on, then."
Greg got out of the car, then helped Tony out. "Night, guys, and Happy New Year. Catch you later."
He and Tony walked towards the front door, Greg all but dragging Tony along. "Not long, and you can curl up in bed for as long as you want."
"And you don't have to spend the night looking after me." Tony smiled. "I've appreciated it."
"Hey, don't mention it. Like I said, it's what I do. And you know I'm going to be looking after you anyway."
"I know." Tony pressed a light kiss to Greg's lips. "Thank you."
As Greg led Tony upstairs, he couldn't help but grin. Asking Tony to fly out with him turned out to be the best idea he'd ever had.
He didn't know it then, but behind him, Tony was thinking the very same thing.
Fandom: Whose Line UK
Pairings: Tony/Greg, Ryan/Colin, Chip/Wayne
Rating: PG to PG-13 for occasional strong language
Summary: New Year is a time for new starts - and this one is no different.
Disclaimer: This fic is in no way intended to portray a true representation of the people involved. As far as I know, this never happened.
Note: Finally, the second half! Sorry it's taken a while, I was having trouble getting going - but once I started, it ran a bit more smoothly.
Cross-posted to britline, whoselineslash and wl_fanfiction. Submitted to fanfic100 for prompt 095 - New Year.
Breaking The Habit
Part Two
"I'm not going."
Greg sighed quietly, his shoulders slumping as he heard the words he'd been hearing ever since the invitation had arrived. He looked up from where he had been riffling through his wardrobe, forcing the frustration out of his voice as he replied, "We've been through this a hundred times already. We're going."
"I'm sorry, I just can't." Tony absently picked at the duvet cover of Greg's bed, which he was currently sat on. "You go ahead. It's you they'll want to see anyway."
Greg walked over to the bed and knelt in front of Tony. "I'm not going to leave you here alone, on New Year's Eve of all nights." He lightly touched Tony's arm. "You don't have to tell them, and if you do, they'll understand."
Tony swallowed gently as he met Greg's gaze. "I just don't want to ruin your night."
"Believe me, you'll do that more by not coming. Look, please at least come for a couple of hours. If you hate it, we'll come home, I promise." Greg gave him a hopeful smile. "Please?"
"Well, when you put it like that..." Tony looked down. "I'm sorry, Greg. This hasn't been much of a break for you, what with everything..."
"Tony, don't you dare even go there." Greg moved to sit beside his friend. "I wouldn't change a thing that's happened while you've been here. At least now we know what's behind it all."
Tony bit his lip. "You know I appreciate it, Greg. Everything you've done for me...I can't ever thank you enough."
"Oh, come here." Greg pulled Tony into a hug. "No need to thank me, you silly man. You're my friend. Can you imagine if I'd left you to spend Christmas alone?"
Tony whimpered slightly. "I'd rather not."
"Well, you don't have to." Greg gently kissed the top of his head. "Now, Colin will be here at about eight, so do you want the bathroom first?"
Tony looked up, a small smile on his face. "Thanks, Greg. I'm glad you stayed willing to put up with me."
"Was never a question," Greg shot back, pulling away slightly. "Now go on. You know how Mr Mochrie is a stickler for timekeeping."
~*~
Greg was sat in the living room when the doorbell rang. He glanced at the clock - five to eight. Early as usual, he thought to himself as he went to open the door. As he passed the stairs, he called up, "That'll be Colin. He's early, so don't worry."
Opening the door, he quipped, "Good job I know to expect you five minutes before your stated time of arrival."
Colin just grinned. "Better early than late. You ready?"
Greg moved back to let Colin in. "I am, not sure about Tony. My fault, I forgot to mention that by 'eight' I meant 'before eight'."
Colin walked into the hallway, turning back to face Greg as he asked, "But he is coming?"
"Last I know, yes he is." Greg couldn't help but frown a little. "Ryan with you?"
"He won't say anything," Colin promised. "How is he?"
"Okay, I'm ready."
Colin and Greg both looked up as Tony came downstairs, looking as if he hadn't a care in the world. Greg grinned widely. "Well, don't you scrub up well."
"Hey Tony, how are you? Delighted you're going to be joining us tonight." Colin smiled warmly. "You look well."
"Please, I look like I haven't slept in months. Probably because I haven't, but I do wish it wasn't so obvious." Tony shrugged a little, his tone still bright.
Greg frowned a little. "Tony..."
"What? Look, I'm not going to turn up and announce it to the whole world, but I think given what an arse I've been to Colin, he deserves to know." Tony turned back to Colin. "Sorry. It's just..."
As Tony's voice faltered, Greg stepped in. "I made him see a doctor while he's been staying with me, and we now know why Tony's been so off-balance."
Colin nodded. "Don't feel you have to give me details," he offered. "I appreciate the sentiment, Tony, but if you'd rather I didn't know..."
"Well, they want me to go back and see some specialists next week to be sure, but they're mostly certain I'm bipolar." Tony stared at the floor in a bid to avoid looking at Colin.
Colin placed a reassuring hand on Tony's arm. "Tony, it's okay. It's not like you brought it on yourself. If I can help in any way, just let me know."
"We'd better go," Greg said gently. "If Ryan's in the car waiting..."
"It's okay, Wayne's with him. Chip's running late, so he's making his own way down." Colin turned back to Tony. "You'll like Wayne. He's like a big ball of energy with legs."
"And on that mental image," Greg teased. "Shall we?"
Tony nodded. "Just let me get my coat."
As the three friends left the house, Colin turned to Tony. "Will you be okay up front? If Ryan stays where he is, it may get a little cramped in back."
"As long as he doesn't mind." Tony fidgeted with his hands. "After all, I shouldn't even be here..."
"Stop that now, mister!" Greg linked arms with Tony. "I told them all that you'd be with me, and they're excited to see you."
Tony was about to reply when he noticed Ryan stood outside the car, along with another man he didn't recognise and so presumed must be Wayne. Instinctively, he pulled a little closer to Greg.
Greg gave him a reassuring smile. "It'll be okay," he murmured. Stopping suddenly, he said in a louder tone, "Oh shoot! I've forgotten something. Tony, will you help me find it?"
Colin smiled a little in understanding. "Do you mind, Tony?"
Tony shook his head, though his tone was shaky. "I don't think I could," he whispered.
Greg nodded and led Tony back to the house. Colin watched them go, before returning to his car.
Ryan frowned a little. "Everything okay? Or is Mr Slattery having one of his drama queen moments?"
"Ryan, please." Colin gave his partner a pleading look. "The way Tony's been acting...it's not his fault. Greg made him see a doctor, and they're almost certain he's bipolar. So...please, honey, just give him another chance."
Ryan nodded, clearly chastened. "You're right, Col, I'm sorry...is he okay?"
"Seems to be. Staying with Greg seems to be doing him the world of good." Colin smiled at Ryan. "Just be nice."
"Greg!"
Ryan and Colin both looked up at Wayne's exclamation; Wayne was already halfway down the pathway and had pulled Greg into a big hug. Beside them, Tony watched, clearly bemused.
Greg laughed as he pulled back from Wayne a little. "Hey, you. How are you? Leaving the house without Chip, are you sure you're alright?"
"We can arrive at things separately, you know," Wayne shot back, before turning to the Brit. "Ah, you must be Tony. Heard a lot of good things about you, man. Wayne Brady, pleasure to meet you."
"Likewise," Tony replied. "I've always wanted to meet the Energiser Bunny."
Wayne grinned. Turning to Greg, he asked, "Can we keep him?"
"He's not a pet, Wayne," Greg reprimanded, though he couldn't hide the amusement in his voice. "Now come on. Colin'll have a coronary if we delay him any longer."
He gently pushed Wayne back towards the car, before offering a hand to Tony. "Let's get this show on the road."
Tony nodded, and allowed Greg to lead him to the car. He forced himself to keep his head up and smile as he approached, masking the fact that seeing Ryan made him want to turn and run back into the house, no matter how much Greg tried to make him stay.
Colin smiled as the pair approached. "You find it?"
"Yes, thank you Colin." Greg smirked. "I am deeply remorseful for the delay I've caused."
"Do you want to walk?" Colin threatened playfully.
"Sorry, Mr M." Greg put on his best chastened look. "Please let me come in the nice warm car."
Ryan chuckled. "As if you expect any different. Serves you right, though, for not wearing a better coat."
"Now now, children." Colin took an authoritative tone. "Now Ryan, do you mind if Tony sits in front and you sit behind him? Should be less uncomfortable for you all."
"Not at all." Ryan turned to Tony. "Glad to see you decided to join us. It's a good job not everyone's as pig-headed as I am." He offered a small, genuine smile.
Tony returned the smile, though he was still a little wary. "I can't say I ever blamed you," he offered in response. "I've not exactly been the easiest person to be around."
"Hey, new year, new start." Ryan's smile widened. "Now come on. If Chip beats us there, we'll never live it down."
~*~
"Guys! You made it!"
As the group of five friends walked into the room, they were instantly met by Brad Sherwood. Colin was the first to respond. "Hey Brad. Nice set-up here."
"You know Dan. No expense spared, as long as we remember it's an incentive for us to keep working hard." Brad surveyed the rest of the group. "No Chip?"
"He's running late," Ryan explained. "We would have waited for him, only we had to get Greg and Tony, and someone refused to phone ahead to ask if they minded." He shot a teasing look at Colin as he spoke.
"Which," Greg joined in, "for the record, we wouldn't have."
"And to think I'm staying sober so you can all have a good time without worrying about getting home." Colin pouted.
"Well, if it wasn't for the fact that your car would end up back at Greg's, I'd offer to do the return drive," Tony piped up.
Ryan raised an eyebrow. "Not drinking?"
"It's really not a good idea." Tony shrugged. "Not unless you want to see me go into extremely annoying twat mode in front of a bunch of people, half of whom I don't even know."
"I appreciate the offer," said Colin. "To be honest, I rather enjoy making sure everyone's home safely. But thank you."
"Hold on a sec." Ryan frowned a little. "Sudden thought - there'll be six of us on the way home."
"Well, Tony and I can get a cab home if it's easier," Greg offered. "Stops you going so far out of your way, too."
"We'll find a way to get you all in," Colin told them. "Chip and Wayne will practically be sitting on each other as it is."
"Hey! No talking about me when I'm not here to deny or defend."
"Chip!" Wayne immediately drew the newcomer into a hug. "Missed you."
Brad smirked. "Well, that's those two gone for the rest of the night." He turned to Tony, seemingly noticing him for the first time. "Ah, you must be..."
"This is Tony," Greg cut in. "He's been staying with me over the holiday period. Be nice."
"As if I'm ever anything but." Brad offered a hand. "I'm Brad. Don't believe anything you've heard about me, especially not from him," he quipped, pointing at Colin.
Tony took the offered hand. "Well in response, I will say don't believe anything you've heard about me, especially if it comes from him." He indicated Ryan as he spoke.
Chip looked up as he heard this. "Tony! Hey, how are you? Long time no see."
"Indeed," Tony replied. "I suppose I don't need to ask how you are."
"Loved-up and loving every minute." Chip grinned. "But I suppose that's obvious."
Greg rolled his eyes. "Come on, let's get out and mingle. I'm sure we'll all find each other when it's time to leave."
"We want Tony!" Wayne practically skipped over to link arms with the bemused Brit. "No fair that you guys who work with him all the time get to hog him tonight as well."
Tony shrugged. "I suppose I'm going with Wayne and Chip then. Wish me luck."
Greg laughed a little. "Well, you boys play nice and look after him. I'll be checking on you later."
Chip smirked. "We'll have him back in one piece. We promise."
~*~
A few hours later, the party was in full swing. Any latecomers, anyone delayed due to problems with transport, had now arrived and now everyone was simply partying their way towards midnight.
Greg was chatting to some of the production team when he happened to look up and spotted Tony sat alone at the edge of the room. Immediately concerned, he excused himself from the conversation and made his way over.
"Tony?"
Tony looked up sharply, clearly startled. "Oh, hey Greg. Sorry, I was miles away."
"I'd noticed." Greg took a seat beside his friend. "Everything okay?"
Tony nodded. "I'm fine, Greg, honestly. I just...needed a bit of time out, that's all."
"I understand." Greg rested a hand on Tony's leg. "Want me to leave you be?"
"You can stay if you want. I know I'm a lot calmer when I'm with you." Tony blushed. "That was something I never meant to say out loud."
"I'm glad you did, though." Greg smiled. "If it makes you feel better, it's always a good thing. And I'm extremely glad to hear that I make you feel better."
Suddenly, a voice called out, "Minute to midnight!"
Tony allowed himself a small smile. "Fresh year, fresh start."
"That's the plan," Greg agreed. "And I'll be with you every step of the way, if you'll let me."
As the rest of the party began the final countdown to the New Year, Tony and Greg simply looked at each other. As he met Greg's gaze, Tony had a sudden, irrepressible urge. He knew he was probably about to make an utter prat of himself, but he also knew he had to at least try.
"Three...two...one...HAPPY NEW YEAR!"
As cheers rang out around the room, Tony took his courage in hand, and leant in to kiss Greg. Convinced he would be rejected, the last thing he'd expected was for Greg to pull him closer, stopping any thoughts he had of pulling away anytime soon.
Greg shifted forward, to be as close as possible to Tony without either of them falling off their chairs. He couldn't believe this was happening, something he had wanted for so long but had never dreamt he would actually get. Tentatively, testing Tony's intention, he flicked his tongue out a little in a request to deepen the kiss.
Tony pulled back, though clearly reluctantly. His eyes held a thousand questions, but somehow none of them made it to his mouth. He shifted his chair as close as it would go to Greg's, finally managing to utter, "That's better. Now, where were we?"
Greg smiled, reaching up to brush the stray forelock of hair from Tony's face. "Well I don't know about you, but I was kissing the most wonderful man I've ever met."
"I really should introduce you to yourself sometime, then," Tony quipped. "If it weren't for you, I'd be back in England, wallowing in my own self-loathing and despair."
"We're going to make you better," Greg promised. "You can stay as long as you need to while they work out exactly what's wrong, and what you need, and I will do whatever it is I have to if it'll help you get back to some form of normal."
"Thank you." Tony smiled. "Do I get to kiss you again now?"
~*~
An hour later, Ryan turned to Colin. "You want to head home, sweetie? It's a long drive, and you look about ready to drop as it is."
Colin smiled. "I thought I was supposed to be the father figure."
"You are. I'm playing mother." Ryan stuck his tongue out at his partner. "Want me to round up the troops?"
"Divide and conquer," Colin replied. "You hunt down the terror twins, and I'll find Tony and Greg. Meet back here, and we'll head off."
Ryan nodded. "Well, at least I got the easy job." He pointed to where Wayne and Chip were holding court at a table, both long past the tipsy stage. "Well, depending on how you define easy, that is."
Colin chuckled. "Good luck," he offered, before beginning his search for Greg and Tony. It took him several minutes, not least because he had decided to say his goodbyes to everyone while he looked, but he eventually found them both sat at the edge of the room, Greg's arm around Tony and Tony's head on Greg's shoulder.
Smiling to himself, Colin headed over and asked, "You okay to leave? Ryan's taking my role of over-protective from me."
Greg nodded. "We were about to come find you anyway. Tony's exhausted, and I'm hoping it means he'll actually get some sleep tonight."
Colin was unable to conceal his grin any longer. "Well look at that, you've got our act down perfectly already."
Greg returned the grin as he replied, "You and Ryan are a pretty good benchmark, but then we all knew you two would end up together anyway."
"I remember the sweepstake," Colin shot back. "Not that this is all that much more of a surprise. You always were that touch too defensive."
"No such thing." Greg looked down at Tony, who had shown no sign of even being aware that Colin had joined them. "Tony? It's time for us to head home now, darling."
Tony finally looked up, blushing slightly as he spotted Colin. "Sorry. I actually think I dozed off there a little."
"Well, that's a good sign. Shall we?" Greg moved to stand, helping Tony to his feet at the same time. "Before Ryan accuses us of abusing our dear friend Colin here."
Colin grinned. "He never could. I wouldn't let him, even if he tried."
The three friends made their way back to the meeting point, where Ryan was already stood waiting with Wayne and Chip. As soon as he spotted Greg's arm around Tony, Wayne blurted out, "Oh, look at you two!"
Greg smirked. "I know, we are rather beautiful, but please. Your flattery is embarrassing."
"Does this mean we risk the discomfort of me being in front?" Ryan asked knowingly.
Greg shot him a grateful look. "Thanks, Ry. I don't think Colin would appreciate this one dribbling on the handbrake."
"Hey!" Tony pouted. "I'm tired, I'm not deaf. Besides, Ryan just wants the excuse to sit at the front."
"Well then, it works out best for all of us." Ryan grinned. "Come on. Let's head back and prepare ourselves for the year ahead."
As the group made their way to leave, Greg looked at Tony. "Thank you."
Tony looked confused. "What for?"
"For being you, and for letting me this close." Greg kissed the other man's shoulder. "I promise I won't make you regret it."
"I know you won't," Tony replied. "Ever since this nightmare started, you've been the one constant in my life. I'm not about to delude myself that this could be anything but good for me."
~*~
"Here we are."
As Colin pulled up outside Greg's house, Greg gently shook the man curled up in his arms. "Tony, dearest. We're home."
Tony's eyes fluttered open, blinking a couple of times as he reminded himself where he was. "Oh god, sorry. I haven't been very good company, have I?"
"You needed it," Ryan told him, before Greg could. "We'll see you guys soon."
"Oh and Tony?" Colin turned to face the Brit. "Good luck."
"Thank you." Tony smiled a little, before turning back to Greg. "Come on, then."
Greg got out of the car, then helped Tony out. "Night, guys, and Happy New Year. Catch you later."
He and Tony walked towards the front door, Greg all but dragging Tony along. "Not long, and you can curl up in bed for as long as you want."
"And you don't have to spend the night looking after me." Tony smiled. "I've appreciated it."
"Hey, don't mention it. Like I said, it's what I do. And you know I'm going to be looking after you anyway."
"I know." Tony pressed a light kiss to Greg's lips. "Thank you."
As Greg led Tony upstairs, he couldn't help but grin. Asking Tony to fly out with him turned out to be the best idea he'd ever had.
He didn't know it then, but behind him, Tony was thinking the very same thing.