Come On With the Rain! Chapter Ten
CHAPTER 10: TILL THE STARS TURN COLD
Toshiko Sato sat in a large, darkened room watching the new edits of her film. A few seats away were Rhys and the head editor, Mickey Smith. All three were overly tired from all the long hours, but Toshiko wanted the movie finished on time, if not early.
She spent most of her nights doing this same thing, watching new edits and old dailies, seeing the final pieces of her baby come together. It was her job; it was her life. Her career and reputation hung on this picture. If it did well, maybe she would get other producing opportunities, maybe another movie. If it flopped, well then her career would resemble her personal life.
Ever since the John Smith premiere many months ago, Toshiko had been trying to find a way out of the mess Gwen Cooper created. It was true, she knew what Gwen did, but didn’t do anything about it. She had her assistant texting her periodically, giving her updates on what the press was doing. And she did nothing. Owen was right; it all became too much to resist, so much free publicity, more interviews, more ticket sales, more everything! She hadn’t planned on Jack accidentally confirming Gwen’s statement and she certainly never thought that Ianto would walk out on Jack. As far as she could tell, Jack and Ianto were strong, strong enough to ride out this storm together until she could figure a way out of this mess. And Owen… he barely talked to her. Jack was more civil; his thoughts were constantly with Ianto and trying to mend what she helped break.
Toshiko shook the dreary thoughts away and refocused on the screen before her. Everything was looking really good. The location shots in Monaco were gorgeous and the footage of Ianto was outstanding! He and Jack really brightened the screen. Even when their characters were fighting, they were magic to watch. It was a shame that Ianto had no interest in staying with the show; she’d have him written into the series in a heartbeat.
“It’s looking great, Tosh!” Rhys exclaimed in a hushed voice. “There’s something about these two isn’t there?”
Toshiko nodded. “Yeah, they’re amazing together.”
Rhys shifted in his seat to speak right in Toshiko’s ear. “I know, Tosh. I know why you kept it from me as well.”
“Know what?”
“About Jack and Ianto. They tried to hide it well enough, but I’ve been filming Jack for too long not to know when there is something else happening behind his eyes.”
Toshiko looked ashamed. All her carefully laid plans were shattering. “I’m sorry, Rhys. I’m sorry I didn’t trust you.”
“You’re forgiven, Tosh. I’m sorry Gwen had to go and ruin things. I never understood why she didn’t - Well, doesn’t pay to have such thoughts, does it?”
“You deserve someone who appreciates you, Rhys.”
“Probably do, but she’s always been the one I wanted. Love’s a stupid thing, isn’t it?”
Toshiko looked back up on the screen. “A very stupid thing,” she agreed.
“So, what are we going to do about it?”
“I haven’t been able to think of anything. I’m usually so good at being one step ahead of everyone, but I can’t figure out what to do! I need to fix this. I promised Jack that I would make things right. The press is still going crazy because we won’t say anything else about the story. Ianto and Jack are struggling. Owen isn’t speaking to me and Gwen has been the only happy face on set.”
“Sounds like an awful lot of fixing for one person to do, Tosh. Let me help.”
“You want to help me ruin the happiness of the woman you love?”
“Gwen can be a daft fool; I know that. She’s an actress. She gets these grand thoughts in her head and they don’t want to leave. She’s spent most of her life in a fantasy world that most people want to be a part of. It’s easy for her to be in love with Jack off-screen because she spends most of her day doing it onscreen. She doesn’t look at anyone else because who would when Jack Harkness was constantly at her side? But, she’s been miserable since this whole thing has happened. She knows what she did was wrong, but she is a stubborn one. If you can make it so she sees that Jack Harkness isn’t an option, it will be the best thing for her. And, hopefully, for me.”
Toshiko jumped out of her seat suddenly. She didn’t say anything, but her eyes were wide and her mouth open as if she were in pain. But, it wasn’t pain she was feeling; it was relief. All the nights of wasted sleep, of working overtime, of feeling alone and useless, they were about to come to an end. She knew how to fix the problem! She knew how to neutralize Gwen, keep Jack the Golden Boy he was and, hopefully, win back a bit of respect from Owen. With all that done, hopefully Ianto and Jack would be able to move beyond this.
“I’ve got it! Oh, Rhys, you’re a genius!”
“What? What did I say?”
“Mickey, stop the film. We need to go back to the cutting room.”
“What for?” the confused editor asked.
“It’s just like Rhys said, we’ve made it too easy for Gwen to stay fixated on Jack. So, what will we do? We’ll change it and we’ll use her own tactic.”
“What tactic is that?” Rhys wondered.
“We’re not going to say anything. We’re going to show something!”
If Rhys was right, and Gwen Cooper was only in love with Jack because of some kind of “show-mance”, then that was easily solved. Oh, she knew she couldn’t rewrite the movie and have the two most popular characters split up; the fans would revolt. But, she could tease them, woo them, bring them around to the idea that maybe Pierre and Yvonne weren’t meant to be together after all. All Toshiko needed was to find a few well-timed shots of Gwen frowning, Ianto looking vulnerable and Jack gazing at him with a sparkle in his eyes. Rhys said he found out about their relationship while watching them film, could see their love. Now, Toshiko was going to show it to the world!
Jack couldn’t remember a time when he had been so unhappy. Even when his parents shipped him off to a foreign country, he wasn’t this miserable. All he wanted was for things to go back to the way they were when Jack and Ianto first starting dating. They spoke on the phone a little bit and occasionally met up for coffee, but not much more than that. It appeared like they were transitioning into becoming good friends or just casually dating. However, the mutual lust and desire was still present whenever their eyes met and Jack was determined to hold on to that.
They texted between rehearsals and whenever they had free time, which was scarce. Jack made sure he texted Ianto goodnight at the end of every lackluster day. He sent pictures of Janet to the younger man and Ianto always replied how much he missed her. But, he refused the invitations to come by and see her. The temptation to be in Jack’s home was too much. It was a terrible limbo, not being broken up and not being truly together. But, Jack agreed to suffer through it. He had no other choice.
So, Jack had to content himself with seeing Ianto from afar. His jewelry commercial ran all the time and there were ads for the new musical he was in. Jack saved them and posted them on his refrigerator. He felt like a child with a crush on an unattainable star, which was a change for him. Normally, if he wanted another celebrity, he got him or her. But, the person Jack wanted wasn’t a star, not yet anyway. He was so much more than that.
After much thought, and knowing that he had to be near his lover any way he could, Jack decided to go see his musical. He had Andy arranged it so he could sit in the back of the intimate theatre space. He entered after the house lights went out and took his seat as quietly and unobtrusively as possible. For the next two hours, Jack watched the man he loved sing songs he had never heard before with the same beautiful voice he knew so well. The show itself had promise and Jack knew that the producers would be fools to let Ianto go if they chose to keep developing the piece. This role could make Ianto a known name in the theatre world. Jack was happy for Ianto and wanted to tell him so, but he didn’t want to risk causing a commotion. As he left the theatre, Jack sent a text to him instead.
Jack: Saw the show. You were brilliant! Congrats xx
Jack didn’t expect an immediate response, but he received one as he was entering his home. Jack waited until he was inside and had greeted Janet before checking the message.
Ianto: You came?? I didn’t see you.
Jack: Didn’t want to pull any attention away from you. Though I doubt I
would have. You were mesmerizing.
Ianto: You’re biased.
Jack: Completely! But you were brilliant. It was a great show.
Ianto: Thank you! I’m glad you came, Cariad.
Jack: Me too. I miss you.
Ianto: I miss you too. A lot.
Jack: :) Will I see you at the premiere??
Ianto: Contractually obligated to be there.
Jack: Will. I. See. You?
Ianto: Yes.
Jack: Great. <3 Goodnight Ianto. And I really did love the show!
Ianto: Thanks. We’ll get you back up there someday, yea?
Jack: It would be nice.
Ianto: :) Night Jack xx
Jack shut off his mobile and got ready for bed. For once, he went to sleep with a bit of hope in his heart.
In fact, Jack did not see Ianto when he got to the movie premiere. He, Gwen and Owen were on the red carpet, posing for pictures. He spent most of his time pulling his hand away from Gwen and avoiding any questions that had to do with their supposed relationship. He tried to search the arriving crowds for Ianto, but no luck. It didn’t matter though; Andy was escorting Ianto to the event in Jack’s car. He would see his estranged lover soon. He couldn’t wait to see what gorgeous suit Ianto was wearing, or what color shirt and tie! So, he smiled to the crowd and slowly, but surely, made his way into the Odeon.
Once inside the large theatre, the three made their way to their seats. Toshiko and Rhys were already there, along with Andy. Owen sat down beside Rhys, as far away from Toshiko as possible. Gwen took her place between Jack and the director. Jack didn’t sit, however. He looked about the expansive room, trying to find the face he most wanted to see.
“He’s on the left,” Andy whispered to his boss. “I put him next to Wilf. They got to be friendly on set.”
“Thanks, Andy.” Jack located Wilf and his boyfriend several rows away. Ianto was laughing at something the older man had said. He looked so handsome in his black suit with teal shirt and tie, which would look lovely next to the pink ones Jack was wearing. The Welshman must have felt eyes on him because he turned and caught Jack’s gaze. Much to Jack’s relief, Ianto smiled at him. Jack returned the smile and added a wink.
“Flirting again are you, Jack?” Gwen asked playfully.
“Got to hell, Gwen,” Owen replied for Jack. “Don’t pretend you don’t know what you’ve done.”
“What I’ve done? What about what you all did to me? You made me look like a prized idiot! Did you think I wouldn’t find out? You put that Ianto Jones into our film! You lied to me, hid it from me. I found out from watching a leaked trailer online. How do you think that made me feel?”
“Serves you right. Lord only knows what stunt you would have pulled if you found out earlier!”
“I didn’t do anything wrong. I didn’t say anything to the press. But you all conspired against me! You always have.” Gwen’s eyes began to tear up.
“Stop it, everyone,” ordered Toshiko. “We’re all smiles tonight, remember that. And once tonight is over, we’re all going to have a sit down in my office.”
“So you’ve gone from being our boss to our headmaster,” Owen grumbled.
“Quiet, Owen. Tosh is right,” Rhys agreed. “This has all gone on long enough.”
“Rhys, you can’t be taking her side,” Gwen insisted, placing a hand on his arm.
Rhys snatched it away. “You’ve gone too far, Gwen love. And you know it.”
“Excuse me, kiddies,” Andy interrupted boldly, “but you’re drawing a bit of attention right now. And not the kind you want, I suspect.”
The group looked around and indeed a few heads were turning towards them, all with questioning looks. Jack noticed that Ianto was watching with concern.
“Wonderful,” Toshiko groaned. “Let’s all just sit down, everyone. They’ll be starting the film shortly.
Jack sent Ianto one more smile before sitting down. He faced the stage before him and the large screen that would soon be playing his movie. Despite all of the drama, he was looking forward to seeing how the picture turned out. Toshiko told him that it would surprise him. He hoped it was a good surprise.
The lights dimmed and the audience applauded.
It was obvious that the people in the theatre wanted to like the film. From the opening credits, sounds of approval were heard, hearty laughter, gasps during the fight sequences and tense murmurs as Philippe’s killer was revealed.
Jack was completely enthralled. He knew that the movie would be good, entertaining, but what he saw on the big screen was riveting. As the plot unfolded, Jack saw what Toshiko meant by surprises. Gwen’s storyline with Governor Saxon became more of a subplot. The interest was definitely on Pierre, René and Honoré, and Jack wasn’t being biased. Ianto’s role seemed so much bigger than it had on paper. And there was something else developing on screen, something completely unplanned. Pierre and Honoré had chemistry, a connection beyond their families’ tragic pasts. Somehow, there was an attraction coming through that Jack never knew was there!
A quick glance at Toshiko confirmed his suspicions. She gave him a mischievous grin and nodded.
“What are you planning, my little Toshiko?”
“Creating a new storyline. I was inspired by that famous quote about art imitating life.”
“But, Yvonne and Pierre…”
“It’s a soap, Jack. We can’t keep them together forever. And if it’s not Honoré, it could be someone else. It’s time the audience sees the possibilities for Pierre and you.”
Jack smirked at her. She was doing it. She was finding a way out of the mess that Gwen created. That’s my girl! he thought and settled in to watch the rest of the movie.
When the end drew near, Jack heard a few sniffles from the people behind him. It wasn’t a sad ending, but it was emotional. Both Pierre and Honoré got closure on the deaths of their fathers and the evil Governor Saxon was vanquished. Yvonne was safe and she held her lover close when they were finally reunited after the bloodshed. But, over her shoulder, Pierre gazed at the devastation around them; fallen soldiers, ruined buildings. And there was something else, a different melancholy in his eyes. It was fleeting, but the image quickly cut to Honoré standing by the coast of the shipping village, the wind tousling his hair and sending salt sea spray up towards his watchful gaze. Two men separated by distance and circumstance. The picture faded back to Pierre and Yvonne, breaking their embrace just in time for René to arrive. The three walked out of the ruined Governor’s mansion into the sunlight as the bright white letters appeared across the screen:
TO BE CONTINUED…
The theatre was dark and silent for only a moment. Then a tidal wave of appreciation was heard throughout! The whole Dueling Cavalier family was clapping and hugging each other, all except for Gwen, who sat in her seat looking horribly ashamed. She turned her reddened eyes to Jack.
“Jack, I’m - ”
“I don’t want to talk about this. It’s a night of celebration.”
“For you, maybe. Tosh threw me under the bus.”
“You’re good at making things work to your advantage, Cooper. I suggest you think of it that way instead of placing blame all over. It’s time to move on, Gwen. I’m not the one who is going to love you forever, no matter what you do or what conclusions the press jumps to. That role has already been taken.” Jack nodded over to Rhys, who was smiling and laughing with Owen. “Think about it. And smile. People are watching.”
Indeed they were. The audience was on its feet and a call for a speech was heard. The cast and crew all looked at each other in shock; they hadn’t been expecting this and they didn’t really know what to do. Luckily, Toshiko was a quick thinker.
Signaling a nearby bodyguard that she was going to acquiesce to the people’s request, she moved towards the stage, pulling Jack along with her. “Come on, you two,” she said to Owen and Gwen. “I don’t think they want to listen to me talk, do you? Rhys, come on! This is your picture, too!”
The five of them ascended the stairs and stepped onto the stage. An usher came running out from behind the curtain with a microphone in hand. There’s always a microphone when you need it Toshiko thought.
The audience began to quiet down when they realized that their cries for a speech were about to be answered.
“Jack, we love you!” a voice called out from somewhere, breaking the silence.
“I love you, too,” Jack called back with a laugh.
Toshiko cleared her throat and addressed the audience. “Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. I’m Toshiko Sato, the producer of The Dueling Cavalier.” She paused for applause. “We are all so happy that you’ve enjoyed the film this evening. We put a great deal of love into it, with a few bumps and bruises along the way. But, in the end, I think we all got what we wanted out of it, something to be proud of. Well, I know who you’re anxious to hear from so, I’m going to pass this thing over to the man of the hour, Jack Harkness.”
Jack kissed Toshiko on the cheek and accepted the microphone. He waved to the crowd as he waited for their cheers to subside. It took a while, so Jack indulged in gazing at his lover, who was standing up with the rest of the crowd, clapping. Jack could see those grey-blue eyes glistening with tears, happy tears, if the smile on his face was an indication. Jack winked at him and smiled broadly, all of his sparkling white teeth shining in the light.
Jack put a hand over his heart and said, “Thank you,” into the microphone. “Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart. We are all a family at The Dueling Cavalier. We’ve gone through good times, great times and not so great times. And as Tosh said, that was all in the past few months!” A little titter of laughter was heard from the audience. “But none of this could have been done, and so quickly, without the entire crew and the cast working together, supporting each other. I’d like to congratulate Owen, Gwen, Rhys, Mickey, Wilf, Tosh, everyone for making this night possible. But, perhaps, more importantly, there’s someone else who needs congratulating.” Jack took a step forward towards the edge of the stage. He lowered the mic away from his mouth so only a few people could hear him say, “Ianto, could you come up here please?”
Ianto shook his head fearfully. Wilf patted the young man on the back and urged him towards the stage. Ianto held firm, though.
Jack sighed. He would have to force the issue a bit. “Ladies and gentlemen, introducing Honoré played by Mr. Ianto Jones!” The audience applauded their accolades to Ianto. “Come on up here, Ianto!” More hands pressed against Ianto, pushing him to the stage, and Ianto couldn’t fight their insistence.
As Ianto walked up the stairs to the stage, he tried to hide his upset, but Jack knew better; he knew Ianto wasn’t happy about this. It was a gamble, however, that Jack was willing to take. Toshiko laid the groundwork and Jack had to start rebuilding his relationship with Ianto. Again, he held the mic away from his mouth.
“Here we are, side by side. They love you and when this movie is released, everyone will know who you are.”
“I didn’t want this, Jack.”
“But you have it. And you have me. I will be beside you the entire time. Just say the word. That’s the security I can give you, Ianto. Paparazzi come and go, but I won’t. I love you and I want to be with you for the rest of my life.”
Ianto inhaled sharply at that. Jack grabbed his hand to keep Ianto from falling over.
“Jack,” Owen called over to the pair. “The audience has gone quiet.”
Jack turned to Owen and then looked out at the seats. The people were right where he had left them, but they weren’t making a sound; they were all actively watching the interaction happening on stage.
“What now, genius?” Owen asked.
Jack just smiled and pulled Ianto to him. Holding his lover’s gaze, he whispered, “Keep breathing,” before raising the mic to his lips and facing the crowd. “I said we are all a family here and it’s true. And like any other family, ours changes and grows. A while back, Gwen Cooper said that she and I were closer than ever and we are. She’s the sister I never had and I’m the annoying older brother. I’m also the protective older brother, so Rhys Williams,” Jack looked over at the director, who stood beside Gwen, “better treat her right or he’ll have to answer to me.”
Rhys threw his arm around a surprised Gwen and placed a kiss on her head. “You bet I will!” Gwen pulled away and looked up at Rhys’ face. “Come on, Gwennie. You know I’ve only ever wanted you.”
“Even after everything I did?”
“Love’s stupid, isn’t it?”
Gwen laughed. “Yes it is. I don’t deserve you.”
Rhys grinned. “Maybe that’s something we can work on together, how to be deserving of each other.” Gwen hugged Rhys to her.
Jack watched the audience respond to his claim about Gwen and Rhys. They were stunned to say the least, but no one was throwing things, so he considered it a success. Moving over to Ianto’s reaction, the younger man was squeezing Jack’s hand almost painfully and his beautiful pale skin was a bit ashen. He didn’t look furious or like he wanted to shove Jack’s face into a door, so Jack took that as a sign to continue.
“And Ianto, well, marrying into the family is never easy, is it? Trying to fit in, keep the peace and make me happy. But, he did it and I love him for that, and more.”
“Marrying into the family?” Ianto hissed back.
“It’s a good metaphor, Jones,” Owen said. “Go with it.”
Ianto bit his lip and looked into Jack’s blue eyes. It wasn’t a proposal, not yet; Ianto understood that. But it was a promise. It was Jack making amends, making them equals. Two stars, two men in love, telling the world that nothing could break them apart. Ianto mentally shook his head at his foolishness. Following his heart all that time ago had brought him to this moment. And with Jack’s heart, he knew together, they would go farther.
Ianto released his lip and gave an imperceptible nod. Jack pulled Ianto to him and kissed him soundly on the lips. The audience went wild when they saw the two men embrace. As the kiss didn’t seem to be nearing an end, Owen yanked the mic from Jack’s fingers.
“Goodnight, everybody. See you at the after party. Well, you might not see these two!” Owen laughed loudly before taking Toshiko by the hand and exiting behind the curtain.
Jack and Ianto separated long enough to follow their friends backstage before they resumed their heated kiss.
“Who needs a party?” Jack asked as he pressed kisses all over Ianto’s cheeks.
“If you’ve been to one, you’ve been to them all, I say,” Ianto replied.
Someone just then cleared her throat. “Contractual obligations, gentlemen,” Toshiko reminded the pair. Groaning, the lovers parted and looked at their friend. “Don’t worry, you don’t have to stay long. But, stick together; everyone is going to want to talk about this!”
“Stick together you say? I think we can manage that.” Ianto rested his head against Jack’s.
Jack grinned. “I’ll have it no other way.”
Epilogue
Toshiko Sato sat in a large, darkened room watching the new edits of her film. A few seats away were Rhys and the head editor, Mickey Smith. All three were overly tired from all the long hours, but Toshiko wanted the movie finished on time, if not early.
She spent most of her nights doing this same thing, watching new edits and old dailies, seeing the final pieces of her baby come together. It was her job; it was her life. Her career and reputation hung on this picture. If it did well, maybe she would get other producing opportunities, maybe another movie. If it flopped, well then her career would resemble her personal life.
Ever since the John Smith premiere many months ago, Toshiko had been trying to find a way out of the mess Gwen Cooper created. It was true, she knew what Gwen did, but didn’t do anything about it. She had her assistant texting her periodically, giving her updates on what the press was doing. And she did nothing. Owen was right; it all became too much to resist, so much free publicity, more interviews, more ticket sales, more everything! She hadn’t planned on Jack accidentally confirming Gwen’s statement and she certainly never thought that Ianto would walk out on Jack. As far as she could tell, Jack and Ianto were strong, strong enough to ride out this storm together until she could figure a way out of this mess. And Owen… he barely talked to her. Jack was more civil; his thoughts were constantly with Ianto and trying to mend what she helped break.
Toshiko shook the dreary thoughts away and refocused on the screen before her. Everything was looking really good. The location shots in Monaco were gorgeous and the footage of Ianto was outstanding! He and Jack really brightened the screen. Even when their characters were fighting, they were magic to watch. It was a shame that Ianto had no interest in staying with the show; she’d have him written into the series in a heartbeat.
“It’s looking great, Tosh!” Rhys exclaimed in a hushed voice. “There’s something about these two isn’t there?”
Toshiko nodded. “Yeah, they’re amazing together.”
Rhys shifted in his seat to speak right in Toshiko’s ear. “I know, Tosh. I know why you kept it from me as well.”
“Know what?”
“About Jack and Ianto. They tried to hide it well enough, but I’ve been filming Jack for too long not to know when there is something else happening behind his eyes.”
Toshiko looked ashamed. All her carefully laid plans were shattering. “I’m sorry, Rhys. I’m sorry I didn’t trust you.”
“You’re forgiven, Tosh. I’m sorry Gwen had to go and ruin things. I never understood why she didn’t - Well, doesn’t pay to have such thoughts, does it?”
“You deserve someone who appreciates you, Rhys.”
“Probably do, but she’s always been the one I wanted. Love’s a stupid thing, isn’t it?”
Toshiko looked back up on the screen. “A very stupid thing,” she agreed.
“So, what are we going to do about it?”
“I haven’t been able to think of anything. I’m usually so good at being one step ahead of everyone, but I can’t figure out what to do! I need to fix this. I promised Jack that I would make things right. The press is still going crazy because we won’t say anything else about the story. Ianto and Jack are struggling. Owen isn’t speaking to me and Gwen has been the only happy face on set.”
“Sounds like an awful lot of fixing for one person to do, Tosh. Let me help.”
“You want to help me ruin the happiness of the woman you love?”
“Gwen can be a daft fool; I know that. She’s an actress. She gets these grand thoughts in her head and they don’t want to leave. She’s spent most of her life in a fantasy world that most people want to be a part of. It’s easy for her to be in love with Jack off-screen because she spends most of her day doing it onscreen. She doesn’t look at anyone else because who would when Jack Harkness was constantly at her side? But, she’s been miserable since this whole thing has happened. She knows what she did was wrong, but she is a stubborn one. If you can make it so she sees that Jack Harkness isn’t an option, it will be the best thing for her. And, hopefully, for me.”
Toshiko jumped out of her seat suddenly. She didn’t say anything, but her eyes were wide and her mouth open as if she were in pain. But, it wasn’t pain she was feeling; it was relief. All the nights of wasted sleep, of working overtime, of feeling alone and useless, they were about to come to an end. She knew how to fix the problem! She knew how to neutralize Gwen, keep Jack the Golden Boy he was and, hopefully, win back a bit of respect from Owen. With all that done, hopefully Ianto and Jack would be able to move beyond this.
“I’ve got it! Oh, Rhys, you’re a genius!”
“What? What did I say?”
“Mickey, stop the film. We need to go back to the cutting room.”
“What for?” the confused editor asked.
“It’s just like Rhys said, we’ve made it too easy for Gwen to stay fixated on Jack. So, what will we do? We’ll change it and we’ll use her own tactic.”
“What tactic is that?” Rhys wondered.
“We’re not going to say anything. We’re going to show something!”
If Rhys was right, and Gwen Cooper was only in love with Jack because of some kind of “show-mance”, then that was easily solved. Oh, she knew she couldn’t rewrite the movie and have the two most popular characters split up; the fans would revolt. But, she could tease them, woo them, bring them around to the idea that maybe Pierre and Yvonne weren’t meant to be together after all. All Toshiko needed was to find a few well-timed shots of Gwen frowning, Ianto looking vulnerable and Jack gazing at him with a sparkle in his eyes. Rhys said he found out about their relationship while watching them film, could see their love. Now, Toshiko was going to show it to the world!
Jack couldn’t remember a time when he had been so unhappy. Even when his parents shipped him off to a foreign country, he wasn’t this miserable. All he wanted was for things to go back to the way they were when Jack and Ianto first starting dating. They spoke on the phone a little bit and occasionally met up for coffee, but not much more than that. It appeared like they were transitioning into becoming good friends or just casually dating. However, the mutual lust and desire was still present whenever their eyes met and Jack was determined to hold on to that.
They texted between rehearsals and whenever they had free time, which was scarce. Jack made sure he texted Ianto goodnight at the end of every lackluster day. He sent pictures of Janet to the younger man and Ianto always replied how much he missed her. But, he refused the invitations to come by and see her. The temptation to be in Jack’s home was too much. It was a terrible limbo, not being broken up and not being truly together. But, Jack agreed to suffer through it. He had no other choice.
So, Jack had to content himself with seeing Ianto from afar. His jewelry commercial ran all the time and there were ads for the new musical he was in. Jack saved them and posted them on his refrigerator. He felt like a child with a crush on an unattainable star, which was a change for him. Normally, if he wanted another celebrity, he got him or her. But, the person Jack wanted wasn’t a star, not yet anyway. He was so much more than that.
After much thought, and knowing that he had to be near his lover any way he could, Jack decided to go see his musical. He had Andy arranged it so he could sit in the back of the intimate theatre space. He entered after the house lights went out and took his seat as quietly and unobtrusively as possible. For the next two hours, Jack watched the man he loved sing songs he had never heard before with the same beautiful voice he knew so well. The show itself had promise and Jack knew that the producers would be fools to let Ianto go if they chose to keep developing the piece. This role could make Ianto a known name in the theatre world. Jack was happy for Ianto and wanted to tell him so, but he didn’t want to risk causing a commotion. As he left the theatre, Jack sent a text to him instead.
Jack: Saw the show. You were brilliant! Congrats xx
Jack didn’t expect an immediate response, but he received one as he was entering his home. Jack waited until he was inside and had greeted Janet before checking the message.
Ianto: You came?? I didn’t see you.
Jack: Didn’t want to pull any attention away from you. Though I doubt I
would have. You were mesmerizing.
Ianto: You’re biased.
Jack: Completely! But you were brilliant. It was a great show.
Ianto: Thank you! I’m glad you came, Cariad.
Jack: Me too. I miss you.
Ianto: I miss you too. A lot.
Jack: :) Will I see you at the premiere??
Ianto: Contractually obligated to be there.
Jack: Will. I. See. You?
Ianto: Yes.
Jack: Great. <3 Goodnight Ianto. And I really did love the show!
Ianto: Thanks. We’ll get you back up there someday, yea?
Jack: It would be nice.
Ianto: :) Night Jack xx
Jack shut off his mobile and got ready for bed. For once, he went to sleep with a bit of hope in his heart.
In fact, Jack did not see Ianto when he got to the movie premiere. He, Gwen and Owen were on the red carpet, posing for pictures. He spent most of his time pulling his hand away from Gwen and avoiding any questions that had to do with their supposed relationship. He tried to search the arriving crowds for Ianto, but no luck. It didn’t matter though; Andy was escorting Ianto to the event in Jack’s car. He would see his estranged lover soon. He couldn’t wait to see what gorgeous suit Ianto was wearing, or what color shirt and tie! So, he smiled to the crowd and slowly, but surely, made his way into the Odeon.
Once inside the large theatre, the three made their way to their seats. Toshiko and Rhys were already there, along with Andy. Owen sat down beside Rhys, as far away from Toshiko as possible. Gwen took her place between Jack and the director. Jack didn’t sit, however. He looked about the expansive room, trying to find the face he most wanted to see.
“He’s on the left,” Andy whispered to his boss. “I put him next to Wilf. They got to be friendly on set.”
“Thanks, Andy.” Jack located Wilf and his boyfriend several rows away. Ianto was laughing at something the older man had said. He looked so handsome in his black suit with teal shirt and tie, which would look lovely next to the pink ones Jack was wearing. The Welshman must have felt eyes on him because he turned and caught Jack’s gaze. Much to Jack’s relief, Ianto smiled at him. Jack returned the smile and added a wink.
“Flirting again are you, Jack?” Gwen asked playfully.
“Got to hell, Gwen,” Owen replied for Jack. “Don’t pretend you don’t know what you’ve done.”
“What I’ve done? What about what you all did to me? You made me look like a prized idiot! Did you think I wouldn’t find out? You put that Ianto Jones into our film! You lied to me, hid it from me. I found out from watching a leaked trailer online. How do you think that made me feel?”
“Serves you right. Lord only knows what stunt you would have pulled if you found out earlier!”
“I didn’t do anything wrong. I didn’t say anything to the press. But you all conspired against me! You always have.” Gwen’s eyes began to tear up.
“Stop it, everyone,” ordered Toshiko. “We’re all smiles tonight, remember that. And once tonight is over, we’re all going to have a sit down in my office.”
“So you’ve gone from being our boss to our headmaster,” Owen grumbled.
“Quiet, Owen. Tosh is right,” Rhys agreed. “This has all gone on long enough.”
“Rhys, you can’t be taking her side,” Gwen insisted, placing a hand on his arm.
Rhys snatched it away. “You’ve gone too far, Gwen love. And you know it.”
“Excuse me, kiddies,” Andy interrupted boldly, “but you’re drawing a bit of attention right now. And not the kind you want, I suspect.”
The group looked around and indeed a few heads were turning towards them, all with questioning looks. Jack noticed that Ianto was watching with concern.
“Wonderful,” Toshiko groaned. “Let’s all just sit down, everyone. They’ll be starting the film shortly.
Jack sent Ianto one more smile before sitting down. He faced the stage before him and the large screen that would soon be playing his movie. Despite all of the drama, he was looking forward to seeing how the picture turned out. Toshiko told him that it would surprise him. He hoped it was a good surprise.
The lights dimmed and the audience applauded.
It was obvious that the people in the theatre wanted to like the film. From the opening credits, sounds of approval were heard, hearty laughter, gasps during the fight sequences and tense murmurs as Philippe’s killer was revealed.
Jack was completely enthralled. He knew that the movie would be good, entertaining, but what he saw on the big screen was riveting. As the plot unfolded, Jack saw what Toshiko meant by surprises. Gwen’s storyline with Governor Saxon became more of a subplot. The interest was definitely on Pierre, René and Honoré, and Jack wasn’t being biased. Ianto’s role seemed so much bigger than it had on paper. And there was something else developing on screen, something completely unplanned. Pierre and Honoré had chemistry, a connection beyond their families’ tragic pasts. Somehow, there was an attraction coming through that Jack never knew was there!
A quick glance at Toshiko confirmed his suspicions. She gave him a mischievous grin and nodded.
“What are you planning, my little Toshiko?”
“Creating a new storyline. I was inspired by that famous quote about art imitating life.”
“But, Yvonne and Pierre…”
“It’s a soap, Jack. We can’t keep them together forever. And if it’s not Honoré, it could be someone else. It’s time the audience sees the possibilities for Pierre and you.”
Jack smirked at her. She was doing it. She was finding a way out of the mess that Gwen created. That’s my girl! he thought and settled in to watch the rest of the movie.
When the end drew near, Jack heard a few sniffles from the people behind him. It wasn’t a sad ending, but it was emotional. Both Pierre and Honoré got closure on the deaths of their fathers and the evil Governor Saxon was vanquished. Yvonne was safe and she held her lover close when they were finally reunited after the bloodshed. But, over her shoulder, Pierre gazed at the devastation around them; fallen soldiers, ruined buildings. And there was something else, a different melancholy in his eyes. It was fleeting, but the image quickly cut to Honoré standing by the coast of the shipping village, the wind tousling his hair and sending salt sea spray up towards his watchful gaze. Two men separated by distance and circumstance. The picture faded back to Pierre and Yvonne, breaking their embrace just in time for René to arrive. The three walked out of the ruined Governor’s mansion into the sunlight as the bright white letters appeared across the screen:
TO BE CONTINUED…
The theatre was dark and silent for only a moment. Then a tidal wave of appreciation was heard throughout! The whole Dueling Cavalier family was clapping and hugging each other, all except for Gwen, who sat in her seat looking horribly ashamed. She turned her reddened eyes to Jack.
“Jack, I’m - ”
“I don’t want to talk about this. It’s a night of celebration.”
“For you, maybe. Tosh threw me under the bus.”
“You’re good at making things work to your advantage, Cooper. I suggest you think of it that way instead of placing blame all over. It’s time to move on, Gwen. I’m not the one who is going to love you forever, no matter what you do or what conclusions the press jumps to. That role has already been taken.” Jack nodded over to Rhys, who was smiling and laughing with Owen. “Think about it. And smile. People are watching.”
Indeed they were. The audience was on its feet and a call for a speech was heard. The cast and crew all looked at each other in shock; they hadn’t been expecting this and they didn’t really know what to do. Luckily, Toshiko was a quick thinker.
Signaling a nearby bodyguard that she was going to acquiesce to the people’s request, she moved towards the stage, pulling Jack along with her. “Come on, you two,” she said to Owen and Gwen. “I don’t think they want to listen to me talk, do you? Rhys, come on! This is your picture, too!”
The five of them ascended the stairs and stepped onto the stage. An usher came running out from behind the curtain with a microphone in hand. There’s always a microphone when you need it Toshiko thought.
The audience began to quiet down when they realized that their cries for a speech were about to be answered.
“Jack, we love you!” a voice called out from somewhere, breaking the silence.
“I love you, too,” Jack called back with a laugh.
Toshiko cleared her throat and addressed the audience. “Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. I’m Toshiko Sato, the producer of The Dueling Cavalier.” She paused for applause. “We are all so happy that you’ve enjoyed the film this evening. We put a great deal of love into it, with a few bumps and bruises along the way. But, in the end, I think we all got what we wanted out of it, something to be proud of. Well, I know who you’re anxious to hear from so, I’m going to pass this thing over to the man of the hour, Jack Harkness.”
Jack kissed Toshiko on the cheek and accepted the microphone. He waved to the crowd as he waited for their cheers to subside. It took a while, so Jack indulged in gazing at his lover, who was standing up with the rest of the crowd, clapping. Jack could see those grey-blue eyes glistening with tears, happy tears, if the smile on his face was an indication. Jack winked at him and smiled broadly, all of his sparkling white teeth shining in the light.
Jack put a hand over his heart and said, “Thank you,” into the microphone. “Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart. We are all a family at The Dueling Cavalier. We’ve gone through good times, great times and not so great times. And as Tosh said, that was all in the past few months!” A little titter of laughter was heard from the audience. “But none of this could have been done, and so quickly, without the entire crew and the cast working together, supporting each other. I’d like to congratulate Owen, Gwen, Rhys, Mickey, Wilf, Tosh, everyone for making this night possible. But, perhaps, more importantly, there’s someone else who needs congratulating.” Jack took a step forward towards the edge of the stage. He lowered the mic away from his mouth so only a few people could hear him say, “Ianto, could you come up here please?”
Ianto shook his head fearfully. Wilf patted the young man on the back and urged him towards the stage. Ianto held firm, though.
Jack sighed. He would have to force the issue a bit. “Ladies and gentlemen, introducing Honoré played by Mr. Ianto Jones!” The audience applauded their accolades to Ianto. “Come on up here, Ianto!” More hands pressed against Ianto, pushing him to the stage, and Ianto couldn’t fight their insistence.
As Ianto walked up the stairs to the stage, he tried to hide his upset, but Jack knew better; he knew Ianto wasn’t happy about this. It was a gamble, however, that Jack was willing to take. Toshiko laid the groundwork and Jack had to start rebuilding his relationship with Ianto. Again, he held the mic away from his mouth.
“Here we are, side by side. They love you and when this movie is released, everyone will know who you are.”
“I didn’t want this, Jack.”
“But you have it. And you have me. I will be beside you the entire time. Just say the word. That’s the security I can give you, Ianto. Paparazzi come and go, but I won’t. I love you and I want to be with you for the rest of my life.”
Ianto inhaled sharply at that. Jack grabbed his hand to keep Ianto from falling over.
“Jack,” Owen called over to the pair. “The audience has gone quiet.”
Jack turned to Owen and then looked out at the seats. The people were right where he had left them, but they weren’t making a sound; they were all actively watching the interaction happening on stage.
“What now, genius?” Owen asked.
Jack just smiled and pulled Ianto to him. Holding his lover’s gaze, he whispered, “Keep breathing,” before raising the mic to his lips and facing the crowd. “I said we are all a family here and it’s true. And like any other family, ours changes and grows. A while back, Gwen Cooper said that she and I were closer than ever and we are. She’s the sister I never had and I’m the annoying older brother. I’m also the protective older brother, so Rhys Williams,” Jack looked over at the director, who stood beside Gwen, “better treat her right or he’ll have to answer to me.”
Rhys threw his arm around a surprised Gwen and placed a kiss on her head. “You bet I will!” Gwen pulled away and looked up at Rhys’ face. “Come on, Gwennie. You know I’ve only ever wanted you.”
“Even after everything I did?”
“Love’s stupid, isn’t it?”
Gwen laughed. “Yes it is. I don’t deserve you.”
Rhys grinned. “Maybe that’s something we can work on together, how to be deserving of each other.” Gwen hugged Rhys to her.
Jack watched the audience respond to his claim about Gwen and Rhys. They were stunned to say the least, but no one was throwing things, so he considered it a success. Moving over to Ianto’s reaction, the younger man was squeezing Jack’s hand almost painfully and his beautiful pale skin was a bit ashen. He didn’t look furious or like he wanted to shove Jack’s face into a door, so Jack took that as a sign to continue.
“And Ianto, well, marrying into the family is never easy, is it? Trying to fit in, keep the peace and make me happy. But, he did it and I love him for that, and more.”
“Marrying into the family?” Ianto hissed back.
“It’s a good metaphor, Jones,” Owen said. “Go with it.”
Ianto bit his lip and looked into Jack’s blue eyes. It wasn’t a proposal, not yet; Ianto understood that. But it was a promise. It was Jack making amends, making them equals. Two stars, two men in love, telling the world that nothing could break them apart. Ianto mentally shook his head at his foolishness. Following his heart all that time ago had brought him to this moment. And with Jack’s heart, he knew together, they would go farther.
Ianto released his lip and gave an imperceptible nod. Jack pulled Ianto to him and kissed him soundly on the lips. The audience went wild when they saw the two men embrace. As the kiss didn’t seem to be nearing an end, Owen yanked the mic from Jack’s fingers.
“Goodnight, everybody. See you at the after party. Well, you might not see these two!” Owen laughed loudly before taking Toshiko by the hand and exiting behind the curtain.
Jack and Ianto separated long enough to follow their friends backstage before they resumed their heated kiss.
“Who needs a party?” Jack asked as he pressed kisses all over Ianto’s cheeks.
“If you’ve been to one, you’ve been to them all, I say,” Ianto replied.
Someone just then cleared her throat. “Contractual obligations, gentlemen,” Toshiko reminded the pair. Groaning, the lovers parted and looked at their friend. “Don’t worry, you don’t have to stay long. But, stick together; everyone is going to want to talk about this!”
“Stick together you say? I think we can manage that.” Ianto rested his head against Jack’s.
Jack grinned. “I’ll have it no other way.”
Epilogue