Fic- Gather No Moss - Part 2 of 2
Title: Gather No Moss
Author: pirl
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: not mine,yadda yadda
Characters/Pairings: Luke/Noah
Click here to go back the original Master Post.
Go back to Part 1.
Brett took to the stage like a fish to water. "Thank you for coming out tonight and supporting a great cause. Your donations make it so that we at iSoar Productions can help a new generation of creative people find their voice and let it be heard. My partner in crime, Noah Mayer-wave sweetie," Noah groaned in embarrassment when Brett pointed at him from the stage and the spotlight found him. He gave a quick wave from where he and Luke stood in the crowd and the audience gave him a short round of applause. Luke beamed with pride as Brett continued.
"Together we started this crazy company five years ago on a wing, a prayer, and a lot of Jack Daniels." The audience laughed. "It's because of your donations that we can be a place for filmmakers who are just starting to get the help and guidance they need. By parting with a few bucks, you have made it possible for many films to get made such as Detroit I Love You, Now Change, My Lady Yonkovitch and the popular Zombie Slaughter series." A respectful cheer went up for each title, with the last movie getting the lion's share of wolf whistles and appreciative shouts.
"We've got some great raffle items in the lobby," Brett continued, "including two VIP tickets for the iSoar Film Festival, which will culminate with the premiere of Zombie Slaughter 4: Freud's Daughter." The audience erupted with excited cheers once more. "So buy a ton of raffle tickets, tip the bartenders, kiss your sweetie and have a great fucking-oops sorry-have a great freakin' evening!" Laughs and cheers filled the room. "And now what you've all been waiting for, let's hear it for The Operatives!"
A thunder of cheers reverberated through the room as the band took to the stage. They were good, Luke thought. They played covers of popular songs from the past few years but really changed them up with their own sound. Previous pop tunes were mellowed out and melodic, while slower songs were amped up with dance-trance beats. The result was definitely fun and Luke found himself enjoying the show even more when he and Noah soon turned it into game of "Name That Tune."
The band started the next song with a fast electronic beat, getting the crowd dancing and jumping. The guitar came in after a while with a simple riff that definitely sounded familiar, but Luke couldn't place it. But when the lead singer started singing he stilled, goosebumps creeping across his skin. He whipped around toward Noah, face alight with a lopsided grin, mouth slightly open in disbelief. He caught Luke's eye and laughed.
"Did you do this?" Luke shouted over the music, pointing toward the stage.
"No! I swear to God!" They stared at each other for a moment longer, stupid grins on their faces. Noah reached out, turning Luke around and pressed up against his back in a tight embrace. Luke's eyes fluttered close as Noah slowly swayed them back and forth.
I see your true colors, shining through.
I see your true colors, that's why I love you…
Luke knows they must look ridiculous in the sea of flailing, sweaty concert-goers, but he didn’t care one bit. He was surrounded by Noah, their song was playing, and they were together again. Luke leaned back further, the edge of his ear scratching along Noah' five o'clock shadow as he turned his face to place a quick, warm kiss against the side of Noah's lips. His heart pounded to the beat of the song as lights dazzled under his eyelids.
And no sign of Javier. Luke crowed.
Later on they traded the raucous concert floor for the somewhat muted din of the lobby. Luke's ears rung and felt like they were stuffed with cotton, which still made hearing a little difficult, but at least they didn't have to shout to be heard anymore. They bought a handful of raffle tickets and meandered through the auction items, occasionally dropping in a ticket or two into the buckets in front of each item when Noah stopped short.
"Oh my God, I'm going to kill him." His tone was joking yet sincere, because there on display was Noah's face in beautiful sepia tones with a placard offering a session of portrait photography by the "Internationally Renowned Photographer" Javier Medina. His photo wasn't the only one on display, Luke recognized Brett's face as well. It curled his teeth to say it, but Javier did take some beautiful pictures.
"You look good. Amazing, even," Luke offered.
Noah reluctantly consented. "Thanks, but I just wish he'd warn me, you know?" Luke nudged Noah's shoulder with his cheek, silently wishing Javier would just leave the country.
"I'm going to grab a soda, want one?" Luke asked. Noah nodded and Luke made his way through to the opposite side of the lobby toward the concession area. As he waited in line he looked around, marveling at the architecture of the concert hall and mused about how many musicians must have played here over its many years. He then thought about Noah talking about old movie houses, the 1920's and Mayan architecture, and how excited he'd get thinking about their heydays. A warm feeling bloomed in him thinking about Noah, but when turned around to look back at the object of his affection he felt like a bucket of cold water was thrown on him.
Javier was here.
Not only was he here, but he was all over Noah. He was leaning in close, way too close, his lips just millimeters away from Noah's ear as he whispered something. His hands rubbed up and down Noah's arms as Noah laughed in reaction to what being said to him. It was like Luke was a deer in the headlights, he couldn't move or react. That was until Javier turned his head and placed his lips on Noah's cheek.
That was it. Before he could even comprehend what he was doing, Luke flew back across the lobby, cocked back his fist and landed a solid, knuckle-snapping punch on Javier's jaw. The satisfaction of watching Javier fumble backward, arms wind-milling as he tried desperately to stay upright overshadowed the sharp throb he felt in his own fist. His heart leapt for victory in his chest, but when he turned to Noah that leap of victory fell flat on its face. Noah's face read only shock, horror and worst of all, disappointment.
Noah seized Luke's arm, his fingers digging in sharply as he pulled him outside. He didn't stop dragging Luke until they rounded the corner of the building and found themselves in an alley.
"Luke! What the hell are you doing?!" Noah exploded. Javier came around the corner, having followed them outside. Seeing his face enraged Luke.
"He's a liar, Noah! He's been faking it the whole time, pretending not to care about us and trying to be my friend!"
"What the hell are you talking about?" Javier shouted, still noticeably stunned from Luke's sudden violence.
"All this time he's been trying to-to steal you back!" Luke jabbed an accusing finger at Javier. "I heard him talking on the phone! He said he was going to get you back whatever it took, show you he was the best thing that ever happened to you."
"What!? I never… oh hell..." His eyes looked skyward as his head tilted back, his mouth gaped open in bewilderment.
Noah looked taken aback. "Javi? I-is that true?"
Javier shook his head as he answered quietly and calmly, "He must've overheard me talking to Nathan about Kye."
"Kye? Who's Kye?" Luke demanded.
"Kye Phang. He's a model that I've been working with for forever, since my start. He pulled some shit recently and left me high and dry so he could go work with another photographer." Noah nodded his head in recognition, apparently aware of the history between Javier and Kye . "I was pissed, still am! You heard me talking about how I was going to get him back, about how good we work together." Javier paused, letting his explanation sink in before he put the final nail in the coffin. "By the way, Nathan is my fiancé."
Luke groaned, "Oh my God."
Javier reached up to gingerly touch the corner of his mouth, checking his fingers for blood. "Luke, I'm not trying to steal Noah or get back with him. Trust me, he wouldn't have me even if I tried." He threw Noah a hangdog look. "And I wouldn’t try because I know he doesn't love me like he loves you." Noah hung his head apologetically, avoiding Javier's gaze. "So can we please kiss, make up, blow each other-well, not me of course, unless you're into threesomes-and forget about all this? Hmm? There's still a chance for some of us to have fun tonight."
Noah looked at Luke, who felt like he was two seconds from losing it. Luke felt like a cornered animal a split second from deciding if it should fight or take flight.
"Go on Javi, we'll catch up," said Noah.
Javier's eyes darted between the two of them, and seemed to understand that there was more to be said between the two which he didn't need to be a witness to.
"Yeah. Text if you need anything," Javier said.
As soon as Javier rounded the corner Luke unleashed. "I…I'm sorry. Oh my God I'm so sorry. I'm such an idiot."
"No, you're not."
"Yes, I am! I punched your friend in the face! I acted like a jealous teenager and embarrassed you, him, myself--"
"Stop." Noah reached for Luke and held on to his shoulders as he persisted.
"It's like I can't get a grip, Noah. One minute it's bliss and the next… it's like I'm holding on for dear life and the rope is slipping through my fingers. I thought he was trying to take you away from me again. I'm becoming paranoid Noah, seeing things that aren't even there."
"You're not paranoid, you're just Luke." Luke managed a weak laugh. "Okay, so punching my ex in the face wasn't the smartest thing you've done. It's not the worst thing either." Another laugh, this time with a small groan. "But I'm flattered all the same because you were fighting for me, you wanted to win me."
"You make it sound like you’re a carnival prize," Luke grumped.
"Not the point. The point is that you were willing to stand up for me, to not let me go without a fight."
"I guess I've just been so confused lately. With my mom," Luke paused a moment and hung his head, sniffing back sudden tears. When he met Noah's gaze again is eyes were wet and bright. "And you." Luke placed a hand gently along Noah's face, cupping his cheek in his palm. "You. You're here, I'm here. We're together and there's all this new stuff coming at me, your friends and this place." He swung his other arm around to gesture toward the city. "I don't know. I kinda feel… jealous? Or left out. You've been living this life that I have no place in. You're doing amazing things with amazing people and I guess I just feel overwhelmed. It's like being at a party where I don't know anyone. It never used to bother me, but… I'm not that kind of person anymore." Luke hung his head again, unable to look into Noah's caring face. "That part of me is dead."
Noah kissed the top of Luke's head, "Luke, I can't even begin to imagine what it's been like for you these past few years with your mom, Sante, Reid," he paused, his mouth twisting slightly sour when saying the doctor's name, "not to mention your own personal battles. The fact that you're standing here... I'm so in awe of your strength." He gently tilted Luke's chin up so he could look him in the eyes once again. "And I want to be here, with you, facing whatever life throws at us. And I'm sorry that I've basically been shoving my life in your face these past couple days." Luke shook his head, about to interrupt, but Noah stopped him. "No, no, don't worry. I totally get it."
"No, you don't. Your life, it's--"
"It went on, without you." They're both silent for a while as Noah's words hung in the air between them like a heavy fog.
Noah leaned in and pressed their foreheads together, he spoke gently yet strong. "Luke, I didn't want this trip to be me flaunting my life or wanting to somehow wedge you into the middle of it all. But I can see how it could seem like that. I guess I'm just so excited to have you with me, because I so much want to do this, everything, anything, with you. Together." Noah leaned back again, face-to-face with Luke. "I want to help find that part of you that you think is dead and revive it. And I don't want to live my life anymore feeling like I'm missing out on some big secret. 'Cuz it's not a secret, I've just been missing you in my life." He smiled at the wet eyes matching his own.
Luke couldn't hold back the giggle he let loose. Noah played like he was appalled. "What? I lay my heart out on the line and you laugh?"
"I'm just remembering something, from a long time ago," Luke said wistfully.
"Let me guess, in a farmhouse far, far away?" They laughed.
"I was thinking about that card you gave me our first Christmas together. I can't believe the same person who couldn't utter a single word back then can't shut up now."
Noah gaped at him, his face amused as he feigned insult. "Thanks jerk! I take it all back."
"Don't you dare." Luke grabbed him and wrapped his arms as tight as he could around Noah's solid form. Noah replied in kind, burying his face into Luke's neck, his words no longer teasing.
"Never. I'm never letting you go again," Noah whispered.
They stood like that in the alley, holding fast to each other for a long time. A few people walked by with curious looks on their faces, but they ultimately left them alone. Luke was the first one to speak after a while, his words muffled slightly by Noah's shirt.
"Can we get out of here?"
"Absolutely. Back to the Manor?"
Luke pulled back and wrinkled up his nose at Noah. "Can we not? Or," his face lit up, suddenly struck by inspiration, "let's go get our stuff. I have an idea."
A few minutes later they had their bags packed and in Noah's SUV. They were parked in front of the Manor as Noah sat behind the wheel, looking expectantly toward Luke. "Where to?"
"What's the best hotel downtown?"
Noah thought for a moment, "Uh, The Greektown?"
"Ever been there?"
"Once, for a meeting."
Luke made a noise like a buzzer going off. "Nope! We need one you've never been to."
A smile spread across Noah's face, catching on to what Luke was trying to do. "Neutral ground, got it. Well, I've never been to The Grand. It's supposed to be really nice."
"Dingdingding! We have a winner!" Noah laughed at Luke's playfulness and started up the engine.
The drive was short with the Manor closely situated to downtown and traffic not being a factor at that hour. They left the car with the valet and Luke threw down his Walsh Enterprises company credit card on the front desk, emphatically reassuring Noah that Lucinda would only be delighted if they maxed out the card. Knowing that to be true, they booked a suite and headed toward the elevator. As they rode up, Noah sent a quick message to both Javier and Brett letting them know that they were fine and that he'd see them later tomorrow, knowing especially that Javier would worry considering how he'd left the two of them. He switched off his phone, and gave Luke a wry look. "They'd worry if I didn't let them know we're okay."
"You have some really good friends," Luke offered.
Noah hung his head and smiled. "Yeah, I do."
The elevator dinged their arrival to one of the top floors. The room was easy to find and after a couple tries, the key card opened the door to a very spacious and stylishly furnished suite. Both of them dropped their bags and gravitated toward the windows that covered the curved, far wall of the room as the twinkling lights of the city diffused through the gauzy curtain. They pushed back the fabric and the city did its best to impress with its lights, the bridge, and a sliver of a moon all reflecting off the river in the distance.
"I always love looking at cities at night. It makes them look clean and magical," Luke said.
"Not gritty and full of crazies trying, allegedly, to steal your boyfriend?"
Luke's face flushed both with embarrassment at Noah's teasing and the warmth of hearing him call himself Luke's boyfriend once again. "Yeah, well." Luke shrugged and gave Noah an apologetic look. Noah in turn shook his head and cupped the side of Luke's face in his hand and placing a soft, slow kiss on his lips. Luke inhaled sharply, reawakening all of those memories shuttered deep in his brain as Noah's familiar scent filled his nostrils. His own arms reached around, pulling Noah flush against him as he kissed back in earnest. It soon became desperate, all roaming hands and lips with shuddered breaths panted out between nips along jaws and long, straining neck tendons. Feeling Noah like this in his arms once again, hearing those breathy moans against his ear and hands holding him strong, Luke felt as if a switch had been flipped in his body. Fear, shame and anguish that had burned so long deep within him were snuffed and flooded with joy, desire and love. It felt like he could breathe easier, his skin tingled with intense sensations, as if he could feel every hair stand on end with electricity. Sounds were sharper and tastes were stronger and more nuanced. His body started to shake.
Noah pulled away, evidently feeling Luke's shudders. "Baby, are you okay?"
Luke's grin threatened to split his face in two. He felt dizzy and drunk. "Yes! I'm just so… happy. So blissfully, ridiculously happy."
Noah smiled sweetly. "Same here."
The bold and brash part of Luke must have also been reawakened because he decided to take a gutsy leap. "I know we're just getting back together, and all the advice columnists and TV shows or whatnot say that we shouldn't sleep together yet, but I have a few counter-arguments to offer."
"Go on." Noah slipped off his jacket and threw it blindly toward a nearby chair, which he missed. He toed off and kicked his shoes away haphazardly as well.
"One. We waited SO LONG to have sex the first time around, so I think it would perfectly fair if we borrowed from that time bank."
Noah nodded, looking like he was listening to a scholarly lecture as he slipped off his glasses and took a moment to place them somewhere safe. As he walked back to Luke, he pulled his shirt off over his head and dropped it to the floor. "Agreed. Two?"
Luke paused a moment, drinking in Noah's chest, his arms, those ridiculously narrow hips which gave his jeans very little to grab hold. He snapped his eyes up and met Noah's soft smile. "Right. If memory serves me, we're good. No, great. No, we're toe-curling, mind-erasing, angels wept-"
"Angels?"
"Quiet! I'm on a role. Where was I?"
"Weeping angels."
"Right! What I'm trying to say is that we're phenomenal in bed, and why should we deny ourselves that? Don't we deserve to feel good? Self-harm is never a good path to follow, trust me on that."
Noah chuckled. "Done." He unfastened his jeans and they fell to the thick carpet with a muted thud. "Third?"
Luke's playfulness went away in a flash as he reached for Noah and closed the small distance between them. He slipped one hand onto the back of his neck and stared intently at his lips while his other hand landed firmly on the front of Noah's underwear, palming his growing erection through the thin fabric. "I've forgotten what you taste like, and that makes me want to stop breathing every second my lips aren't on your body."
Noah exhaled a loud groan and reached for Luke's lips with his own. They explored each other's mouths with tongues and teeth until Luke freed Noah from his underwear. Noah broke their kiss, his breath hot against Luke's neck as his hand started to travel the length of Noah's erection. The pace Luke set was slow while he reacquainted himself as his fingers traced every ridge and vein and his palm felt the heavy weight. The pads of his fingers drew tiny designs with the precome they found on the smooth skin at the tip of Noah's cock. Luke felt teeth gently bite his neck as he heard a deep groan of frustration escape Noah.
Luke brought Noah's hands up to his own shoulders before he went to his knees. He felt Noah sway a little but he held tight as Luke licked him from root to tip. The taste was intoxicating, like no other substance in the world to him. He quickly grabbed hold and swallowed as much of Noah as he could, letting his tongue flatten out as he slowly pulled back, tasting every last inch of him. The fingers at his shoulders dug in, fisting the shirt he still wore.
"Oh God, Luke." It was more of a groan than actual words. He leaned in for another taste, this time fluttering his tongue back and forth which almost made Noah collapse forward. The hands at his shoulders now pulled him back up for a feverish kiss. Noah burrowed a hand deep into Luke's hair while the other pulled at his hips, pressing his jean-clad body against Noah's bare skin. Teeth started to nip, breath began to shudder and Luke's entire universe started to shrink to the size of a hotel room.
Luke's equilibrium was starting to fail so he maneuvered them to the bed where Noah flopped down as soon as the backs of his legs felt the edge of the mattress. He lifted Noah's feet one at a time to pull his socks off, pausing as he saw the small meandering inscription near Noah's instep and traced it lightly with his fingers. Before Noah could jerk his ticklish foot away, he leaned in and placed a soft, firm kiss on those words. "Say it for me."
"Las piedras rodando se encuentran," Noah purred.
"You're good at that." He kissed Noah's ankle.
"I can say other things."
"Like?" Luke slowly started to drag his lips and tongue up Noah's leg.
"Um… taco. Queso fresco. Burro. Ca-casa." He hissed as Luke bit the skin just above his knee. "Hey!"
"You know about as much Spanish as you do Italian," Luke laughed.
Noah laughed with him. "I'm multi-lingual."
Luke arched an eyebrow. "I think we can find a better use for your linguistic skills."
"Absolutely." And with that Noah sat up and used his talented tongue to taste Luke's mouth again, reaching for the hem of Luke's shirt so he could strip it off. Luke scooted back and off the bed to shed the rest of his clothes. He stood beside the bed, his eyes sweeping over the body lying in front of him. It was so familiar; he knew every dimple, every childhood scar, and every place that made Noah's eyes roll back. It was also so foreign to him now. Different muscles, new scars, tattoos. But it was all still Noah, and it was all his. And the look on Noah's face, desire and want written there bold enough for the heavens to see, it fed the fire in Luke's chest even more.
Luke stepped away for a moment, making his way back to his bag by the door and rummaged around the pockets before returning to the bed. He deposited his cache on the nightstand and then climbed over to Noah, slowly lowering and pressing his body onto Noah's. He sighed as their bodies connected from legs to hips to stomachs to chests.
Their kisses grew frantic and needy as they moved against one another. They tasted each other's skin, marking each other with teeth and nails as they pushed and pulled at each other, fighting to give and take pleasure. Eight years of frustration were being exorcised from their bodies as they filled up their senses with each other once again.
Luke found himself lying on his back as Noah was pulling at his left nipple with his teeth, his hand carding through his chest hair. Luke hissed, the painful pleasure was almost too much. He felt like he was entering an altered state, where he hung in limbo of anguished desire. He just kept breathing, which was the only thing he felt like he could control right now, but then he felt Noah's fingers and he felt like he couldn't even do that anymore.
Noah's fingers, oh God, Noah's fingers were inside him. He hadn't even heard Noah open the lube. He arched his head back as Noah's long fingers caressed and prodded, stretching him open. They searched and found that spot that made Luke shout surrender as more lazy designs dripped from his weeping cock onto his belly.
"Please… oh fuck, please, Noah."
"Jesus baby, you look amazing," Noah crooned.
Luke's hand scrambled to his side, searching and finding the small foil packet. He shakily shoved it into Noah's hand, incapable of helping him put it on. He watched as Noah withdrew his fingers, much to Luke's disappointment, and tore open the wrapper with his teeth. With not so steady hands himself, Noah managed to roll the condom down his length, pausing at the base with a squeeze and an aching look toward Luke.
"Lie back," Luke said.
Noah leaned back, stretching himself out as Luke maneuvered, straddling him with his knees pressed deeply into the bed on either side of Noah's torso while his calves hugged Noah's thighs.
Luke grabbed the lube from where it lay on the bed, squeezing a fair amount onto his fingers before he reached behind himself and wrapped his hand around Noah's cock. He gave Noah only a couple strokes, knowing full well that they were both now riding the knife's edge of desire.
Rising, Luke lined up Noah's cock and slowly, deliciously, sank down. It had been a long time for Luke and he let loose a guttural groan, feeling the burn from being stretched. Noah's hands tightened at his hips, stilling him. Luke opened his eyes to see concern in Noah's eyes but just Luke leaned over and kissed it away as he sank lower and lower until the backs of his thighs sat on Noah's. He felt Noah clutch harder at his hips, exhaling forcefully as his fingers dug into the flesh of Luke's ass. They were still, reveling in the intimate feel of each other once again.
Noah then cradled Luke's face in his hands for a lingering kiss as they calmed their breaths and racing hearts. On an unspoken cue Luke tilted back and sat straight up. Noah slowly bent his knees out, digging his heels into the mattress as Luke lifted himself up slowly, keeping one hand where he could reach on Noah's stomach, the other joining Noah's on his own thigh. Luke flexed his legs rising higher and higher until just the tip of Noah remained in him. His thighs trembled with the strain until Noah hands dragged him back down in a strong, solid pull. They both gasped in delight from the sensation.
Luke looked down from where he sat on top of Noah and leered. "Let's make some magic, baby." To which Noah just smiled lustily.
Luke's pace was unhurried as they savored the pleasure in the each other's flesh. They moved languidly together like carnal liquid, drinking in each other in fluid waves. Luke's small gasps turned into whines and whimpers, spurning Noah's hands to grab on tighter to Luke's hips and urge him to quicken the pace. Luke was only happy to, letting the joy he felt bubble out of him in laughter. He felt unbridled and delirious.
Noah's legs dug in as his hands lifted Luke up slightly, tilting him so he fell forward just enough to brace himself against Noah's chest with both hands. He then held still as Noah thrust up into him, the new angle jolted the laugher from him. He cried out instead as the new sensation shorted out his ability to stay upright and fell onto Noah's chest.
"Oh fuck me," Luke groaned.
Noah chuckled into his hair. "That's what I'm trying to do."
Keeping himself buried deep inside Luke, Noah surged up until they were both sitting. Luke crossed his ankles behind Noah, keeping his heels dug into the bed. Biceps and thighs flexed as Noah and Luke rose up and thrust in tandem. Soon they were both panting out breathy moans and Luke started to lose himself once again. He groaned loud into Noah's ear, hitting a point of no return.
"Fuck me. Please, please Noah…"
And Noah did. He pushed Luke back on the bed, bringing his legs up to his arms and spreading him wide as he pushed forward, burying himself deeper and deeper into Luke with every powerful thrust. The sound of skin slapping against skin joined with the keening gasps and guttural shouts they made. Luke felt Noah reach for his cock.
"Want you to come with me," Noah huffed out above him. Luke was bowed back, his arms reaching out and searching for anything to grab onto to keep him grounded as Noah took him higher and higher with every stroke of his hand and snap of his hips.
When he came it was with a shout, drawn out and throaty which seemed to come from his toes as his eyes clamped tighter and the black behind his eyelids whited out. His body folded up, folded into Noah as he heard him howl as well, his momentum focused to a few shudders as he spilled himself into Luke.
Having been entirely spent, Noah gracelessly lowered himself onto Luke. His arms went slack which allowed Luke to slide his legs down into a more comfortable position since neither of them seemed to want to be separated quite yet.
Endorphins coursed through Luke's body, giving him goose-bumps as he shivered with uncontrollable emotions. He felt hot tears squeeze from the corners of his eyes as he gave in. His fears and anguish in losing so much mixed with the ecstasy of having Noah, the love of his life, back in his arms. He felt Noah shift and slip out of him, feeling that sudden emptiness threaten to spread to his chest until strong arms held him tight. Wet sniffles soon joined Luke's own.
Noah voice rasped dry and thick in his ear. "I love you Luke. I never stopped loving you."
"I love you too, Noah. Always."
They held each other a while longer. Soon their shivers of emotion turned into shivers from being cold. Noah sat up and pulled Luke with him out of bed. They made their way to the bathroom, pleasantly surprised to find a double-headed shower in the roomy stall. They took turns washing each other, baptizing themselves anew in hot water and hotel shampoo. They toweled off, somehow always touching, always keeping in contact with one another, neither of them wanting to lose that physical reminder that they were both there.
With a wink, Luke took both of their towels and threw them on the floor and turning, pulled Noah out of the bathroom and back to bed. They settled between the satin smooth sheets, the room suddenly much colder to their skin than it had been previously. They let their hands roam while they shared occasional soft kisses and sighs, snuggling in to the bed and each other.
"Don't wake me if this all turns out to be a dream," Noah hushed.
"If it's a dream, I promise to be here forever."
"And if it's not a dream?" Noah asked.
"I promise to be here forever."
~~~~~
Noah's ears told him he was in an unfamiliar place before his eyes could. The soft hum of a thermostat, the muted noises of traffic somewhere in the distance, and the quiet, almost inscrutable noise of someone's stomach grumbling close by were his clues. He grinned before he opened his eyes as memories of the previous night came flooding into his short-term memory bank. That, and the slight sting of tenderness behind his balls from when they woke up later in the night for round two brought reality into high-definition.
He blinked his eyes open and found himself looking into Luke's golden gaze.
"H'long you been up?" Noah half-mumbled into the pillow.
"Long enough to think about a few things."
"Uh-oh."
"Brat." Luke playfully shoved Noah's shoulder. "I also ordered breakfast from room service."
Noah hummed his approval, rubbing the sleep from his eyes and turning so his face was only a few inches from Luke's. "So what were you thinking about?"
Luke's hand spread across Noah's chest, fingers dragging patterns across his warm skin.
"I thought about how I wanted you to make fun of me watching reality shows. About arguing over which movie to go see and me sneaking onions into the pizza order." Noah's face scrunched up at the mention of onions. "I thought about getting you Gatorade and popsicles for when you're sick and signing our Christmas cards together. About you nagging me about my hair getting too long and bringing you to my AA meetings. I want to buy crunchy peanut butter and outrageously expensive coffee and have you be the first person I call when anything happens, good or bad. Every day I want to wake up and see your face, sheet-wrinkled and beautiful," Luke reached out to caress Noah's cheek, his voice now heavy with emotion. "I want that, I want this, for the rest of my life."
Noah captured Luke's hand in his and brought it between them, his lip curled up in a shy smile. "That sounds perfect."
~~~~~
Just over eight months later…
~~~~~
Luke's heart pounded as he propelled himself through the emergency room entrance. Amazingly, he was able to string enough words together at the nurse's station to find out where he needed to go.
Down the hall, take a left, through the doors, on your right…
As he ran, he pulled at his collar and wrenched the tie away from his neck as his skin prickled with sweat and adrenaline underneath his clothes. He slid around the corner, his dress shoes losing purchase on the polished hospital floor. He reached the door and fumbled with it, futilely pushing and pulling at the unmoving obstacle until he found the wall switch to activate it. His nerves frayed even more as the door slowly swung open toward him, swearing at the lack of urgency he thought was paramount in an emergency ward.
Looking to his right he jogged down the quiet hallway and passed alcove after alcove of beds, some empty, others occupied with exhausted looking patients and concerned loved ones at their side. He was almost at the end of the hallway, fretting that he'd heard the nurse's instructions wrong when he finally saw Noah.
Luke thought he would lose it right there, because nestled in Noah's strong arms was the tiniest bundle of pink. Sensing Luke was there, Noah looked up from the tiny face cradled in his elbow. The grin that greeted Luke could've rivaled the sun with its brilliance.
"She's-Luke, I can't get over how perfect she looks." The look of wonder that danced in Noah's eyes threatened to bring tears to Luke's own.
He slipped his arm around Noah and looked down at the tiny miracle in his arms and agreed, "Perfect."
"Can I get some credit over here? I mean, she's my kid after all." A very weary looking Brett drowsily called out from the bed.
"Of course!" Luke went to Brett's side, leaning over to kiss her forehead. "You did good, mama."
"She sure did," Robbie said warmly, his large hands holding on to one of Brett's, "she was a rockstar."
The room was quiet for a while, everyone taking turns holding little Elenor Kosta until she made her way back into Noah's willing embrace. The serenity of the moment was soon disturbed when two rather boisterous people rounded the corner.
"Happy birthday!" Javier shouted. The slim, bearded, redhead at his side in a matching tux shushed him, albeit through a fit of giggles. Javier put a finger to his lips and giggled as well. "Sorry!"
"Robbie, if either of their drunk asses tries to hold Elenor I want you to kick them in the nuts," Brett threatened.
"You got it babe."
Javier's hand automatically went to cover his crotch, while he displayed a look of indignation. "You wouldn't dare. We just left so we could start the honeymoon early," he gave Brett a lewd wink, "but everyone is still going strong back at the ballroom. I mean there's no reason for the party to end for everybody else, right? I mean, once they cleaned the dance floor, you know." Javier pulled a face expressing just how much the situation grossed him out.
Brett cooed at Javier from her bed, beckoning him over with her arms outstretched as if to hug him. But as soon as he got within a foot of her she started to swing haymakers at his head and shoulders. "You insensitive prick!"
"Hey! Watch it! I'm not the one who went into labor two weeks early during a wedding. And not just any wedding, my own you bitch!" He laughed as she continued to flail weakly at him. "You couldn't let me have my moment in the spotlight?"
"Ahem! Our moment, you mean." Nathan pulled Javier from Brett's assault. "Right dear?"
Javier turned and kissed him squarely on the lips. "Of course, oh hubby of mine."
Noah just rolled his eyes and looked to Brett. "Do you want her back?" he offered, nodding his head toward her little girl. Brett replied with a coy smile and reached out to receive her daughter once again.
Robbie then spoke up, "Okay guys, I don't want to be rude…"
"But get the fuck out," Brett finished.
Javier and Nathan didn't put up a fight and composed themselves long enough to say their goodbyes and swiftly left the room as quickly as they arrived.
Brett shook her head at them and deadpanned, "I should've gone into labor during the ceremony. That would've been hilarious."
"Well, this way you'll never forget their anniversary," Luke offered.
"Just promise me the two of you won't have your wedding while I'm pregnant. I really missed the open bar." Brett pouted.
Noah chuckled at his friend. "Deal." He reached for Luke's hand and squeezed it in his own. "I'm pretty sure you'll be in the clear."
Luke brought their entwined hands up to his lips and pressed a tender kiss over the ring around Noah's finger. They stared at each other for a moment, sharing silent affirmations and declarations, before they said their goodbyes to the new family and made their way out the building.
"So…" Noah lilted. The cold, winter air made his voice hang visibly in the air.
"I've always loved springtime at the farm," said Luke matter-of-factly.
"Yeah?" Noah asked, hopeful.
"Yeah. I mean, aside from the cottonwood trees going crazy, I think a spring wedding would be perfect out there. Heck, the cottonwood might actually add to the decor, don't you think?"
Noah laughed. "I can't believe I'm going to marry the biggest dork I know."
Luke stopped and pulled Noah into a sharp, quick kiss. "Believe it, bubby!"
.
Author: pirl
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: not mine,yadda yadda
Characters/Pairings: Luke/Noah
Click here to go back the original Master Post.
Go back to Part 1.
Brett took to the stage like a fish to water. "Thank you for coming out tonight and supporting a great cause. Your donations make it so that we at iSoar Productions can help a new generation of creative people find their voice and let it be heard. My partner in crime, Noah Mayer-wave sweetie," Noah groaned in embarrassment when Brett pointed at him from the stage and the spotlight found him. He gave a quick wave from where he and Luke stood in the crowd and the audience gave him a short round of applause. Luke beamed with pride as Brett continued.
"Together we started this crazy company five years ago on a wing, a prayer, and a lot of Jack Daniels." The audience laughed. "It's because of your donations that we can be a place for filmmakers who are just starting to get the help and guidance they need. By parting with a few bucks, you have made it possible for many films to get made such as Detroit I Love You, Now Change, My Lady Yonkovitch and the popular Zombie Slaughter series." A respectful cheer went up for each title, with the last movie getting the lion's share of wolf whistles and appreciative shouts.
"We've got some great raffle items in the lobby," Brett continued, "including two VIP tickets for the iSoar Film Festival, which will culminate with the premiere of Zombie Slaughter 4: Freud's Daughter." The audience erupted with excited cheers once more. "So buy a ton of raffle tickets, tip the bartenders, kiss your sweetie and have a great fucking-oops sorry-have a great freakin' evening!" Laughs and cheers filled the room. "And now what you've all been waiting for, let's hear it for The Operatives!"
A thunder of cheers reverberated through the room as the band took to the stage. They were good, Luke thought. They played covers of popular songs from the past few years but really changed them up with their own sound. Previous pop tunes were mellowed out and melodic, while slower songs were amped up with dance-trance beats. The result was definitely fun and Luke found himself enjoying the show even more when he and Noah soon turned it into game of "Name That Tune."
The band started the next song with a fast electronic beat, getting the crowd dancing and jumping. The guitar came in after a while with a simple riff that definitely sounded familiar, but Luke couldn't place it. But when the lead singer started singing he stilled, goosebumps creeping across his skin. He whipped around toward Noah, face alight with a lopsided grin, mouth slightly open in disbelief. He caught Luke's eye and laughed.
"Did you do this?" Luke shouted over the music, pointing toward the stage.
"No! I swear to God!" They stared at each other for a moment longer, stupid grins on their faces. Noah reached out, turning Luke around and pressed up against his back in a tight embrace. Luke's eyes fluttered close as Noah slowly swayed them back and forth.
I see your true colors, shining through.
I see your true colors, that's why I love you…
Luke knows they must look ridiculous in the sea of flailing, sweaty concert-goers, but he didn’t care one bit. He was surrounded by Noah, their song was playing, and they were together again. Luke leaned back further, the edge of his ear scratching along Noah' five o'clock shadow as he turned his face to place a quick, warm kiss against the side of Noah's lips. His heart pounded to the beat of the song as lights dazzled under his eyelids.
And no sign of Javier. Luke crowed.
Later on they traded the raucous concert floor for the somewhat muted din of the lobby. Luke's ears rung and felt like they were stuffed with cotton, which still made hearing a little difficult, but at least they didn't have to shout to be heard anymore. They bought a handful of raffle tickets and meandered through the auction items, occasionally dropping in a ticket or two into the buckets in front of each item when Noah stopped short.
"Oh my God, I'm going to kill him." His tone was joking yet sincere, because there on display was Noah's face in beautiful sepia tones with a placard offering a session of portrait photography by the "Internationally Renowned Photographer" Javier Medina. His photo wasn't the only one on display, Luke recognized Brett's face as well. It curled his teeth to say it, but Javier did take some beautiful pictures.
"You look good. Amazing, even," Luke offered.
Noah reluctantly consented. "Thanks, but I just wish he'd warn me, you know?" Luke nudged Noah's shoulder with his cheek, silently wishing Javier would just leave the country.
"I'm going to grab a soda, want one?" Luke asked. Noah nodded and Luke made his way through to the opposite side of the lobby toward the concession area. As he waited in line he looked around, marveling at the architecture of the concert hall and mused about how many musicians must have played here over its many years. He then thought about Noah talking about old movie houses, the 1920's and Mayan architecture, and how excited he'd get thinking about their heydays. A warm feeling bloomed in him thinking about Noah, but when turned around to look back at the object of his affection he felt like a bucket of cold water was thrown on him.
Javier was here.
Not only was he here, but he was all over Noah. He was leaning in close, way too close, his lips just millimeters away from Noah's ear as he whispered something. His hands rubbed up and down Noah's arms as Noah laughed in reaction to what being said to him. It was like Luke was a deer in the headlights, he couldn't move or react. That was until Javier turned his head and placed his lips on Noah's cheek.
That was it. Before he could even comprehend what he was doing, Luke flew back across the lobby, cocked back his fist and landed a solid, knuckle-snapping punch on Javier's jaw. The satisfaction of watching Javier fumble backward, arms wind-milling as he tried desperately to stay upright overshadowed the sharp throb he felt in his own fist. His heart leapt for victory in his chest, but when he turned to Noah that leap of victory fell flat on its face. Noah's face read only shock, horror and worst of all, disappointment.
Noah seized Luke's arm, his fingers digging in sharply as he pulled him outside. He didn't stop dragging Luke until they rounded the corner of the building and found themselves in an alley.
"Luke! What the hell are you doing?!" Noah exploded. Javier came around the corner, having followed them outside. Seeing his face enraged Luke.
"He's a liar, Noah! He's been faking it the whole time, pretending not to care about us and trying to be my friend!"
"What the hell are you talking about?" Javier shouted, still noticeably stunned from Luke's sudden violence.
"All this time he's been trying to-to steal you back!" Luke jabbed an accusing finger at Javier. "I heard him talking on the phone! He said he was going to get you back whatever it took, show you he was the best thing that ever happened to you."
"What!? I never… oh hell..." His eyes looked skyward as his head tilted back, his mouth gaped open in bewilderment.
Noah looked taken aback. "Javi? I-is that true?"
Javier shook his head as he answered quietly and calmly, "He must've overheard me talking to Nathan about Kye."
"Kye? Who's Kye?" Luke demanded.
"Kye Phang. He's a model that I've been working with for forever, since my start. He pulled some shit recently and left me high and dry so he could go work with another photographer." Noah nodded his head in recognition, apparently aware of the history between Javier and Kye . "I was pissed, still am! You heard me talking about how I was going to get him back, about how good we work together." Javier paused, letting his explanation sink in before he put the final nail in the coffin. "By the way, Nathan is my fiancé."
Luke groaned, "Oh my God."
Javier reached up to gingerly touch the corner of his mouth, checking his fingers for blood. "Luke, I'm not trying to steal Noah or get back with him. Trust me, he wouldn't have me even if I tried." He threw Noah a hangdog look. "And I wouldn’t try because I know he doesn't love me like he loves you." Noah hung his head apologetically, avoiding Javier's gaze. "So can we please kiss, make up, blow each other-well, not me of course, unless you're into threesomes-and forget about all this? Hmm? There's still a chance for some of us to have fun tonight."
Noah looked at Luke, who felt like he was two seconds from losing it. Luke felt like a cornered animal a split second from deciding if it should fight or take flight.
"Go on Javi, we'll catch up," said Noah.
Javier's eyes darted between the two of them, and seemed to understand that there was more to be said between the two which he didn't need to be a witness to.
"Yeah. Text if you need anything," Javier said.
As soon as Javier rounded the corner Luke unleashed. "I…I'm sorry. Oh my God I'm so sorry. I'm such an idiot."
"No, you're not."
"Yes, I am! I punched your friend in the face! I acted like a jealous teenager and embarrassed you, him, myself--"
"Stop." Noah reached for Luke and held on to his shoulders as he persisted.
"It's like I can't get a grip, Noah. One minute it's bliss and the next… it's like I'm holding on for dear life and the rope is slipping through my fingers. I thought he was trying to take you away from me again. I'm becoming paranoid Noah, seeing things that aren't even there."
"You're not paranoid, you're just Luke." Luke managed a weak laugh. "Okay, so punching my ex in the face wasn't the smartest thing you've done. It's not the worst thing either." Another laugh, this time with a small groan. "But I'm flattered all the same because you were fighting for me, you wanted to win me."
"You make it sound like you’re a carnival prize," Luke grumped.
"Not the point. The point is that you were willing to stand up for me, to not let me go without a fight."
"I guess I've just been so confused lately. With my mom," Luke paused a moment and hung his head, sniffing back sudden tears. When he met Noah's gaze again is eyes were wet and bright. "And you." Luke placed a hand gently along Noah's face, cupping his cheek in his palm. "You. You're here, I'm here. We're together and there's all this new stuff coming at me, your friends and this place." He swung his other arm around to gesture toward the city. "I don't know. I kinda feel… jealous? Or left out. You've been living this life that I have no place in. You're doing amazing things with amazing people and I guess I just feel overwhelmed. It's like being at a party where I don't know anyone. It never used to bother me, but… I'm not that kind of person anymore." Luke hung his head again, unable to look into Noah's caring face. "That part of me is dead."
Noah kissed the top of Luke's head, "Luke, I can't even begin to imagine what it's been like for you these past few years with your mom, Sante, Reid," he paused, his mouth twisting slightly sour when saying the doctor's name, "not to mention your own personal battles. The fact that you're standing here... I'm so in awe of your strength." He gently tilted Luke's chin up so he could look him in the eyes once again. "And I want to be here, with you, facing whatever life throws at us. And I'm sorry that I've basically been shoving my life in your face these past couple days." Luke shook his head, about to interrupt, but Noah stopped him. "No, no, don't worry. I totally get it."
"No, you don't. Your life, it's--"
"It went on, without you." They're both silent for a while as Noah's words hung in the air between them like a heavy fog.
Noah leaned in and pressed their foreheads together, he spoke gently yet strong. "Luke, I didn't want this trip to be me flaunting my life or wanting to somehow wedge you into the middle of it all. But I can see how it could seem like that. I guess I'm just so excited to have you with me, because I so much want to do this, everything, anything, with you. Together." Noah leaned back again, face-to-face with Luke. "I want to help find that part of you that you think is dead and revive it. And I don't want to live my life anymore feeling like I'm missing out on some big secret. 'Cuz it's not a secret, I've just been missing you in my life." He smiled at the wet eyes matching his own.
Luke couldn't hold back the giggle he let loose. Noah played like he was appalled. "What? I lay my heart out on the line and you laugh?"
"I'm just remembering something, from a long time ago," Luke said wistfully.
"Let me guess, in a farmhouse far, far away?" They laughed.
"I was thinking about that card you gave me our first Christmas together. I can't believe the same person who couldn't utter a single word back then can't shut up now."
Noah gaped at him, his face amused as he feigned insult. "Thanks jerk! I take it all back."
"Don't you dare." Luke grabbed him and wrapped his arms as tight as he could around Noah's solid form. Noah replied in kind, burying his face into Luke's neck, his words no longer teasing.
"Never. I'm never letting you go again," Noah whispered.
They stood like that in the alley, holding fast to each other for a long time. A few people walked by with curious looks on their faces, but they ultimately left them alone. Luke was the first one to speak after a while, his words muffled slightly by Noah's shirt.
"Can we get out of here?"
"Absolutely. Back to the Manor?"
Luke pulled back and wrinkled up his nose at Noah. "Can we not? Or," his face lit up, suddenly struck by inspiration, "let's go get our stuff. I have an idea."
A few minutes later they had their bags packed and in Noah's SUV. They were parked in front of the Manor as Noah sat behind the wheel, looking expectantly toward Luke. "Where to?"
"What's the best hotel downtown?"
Noah thought for a moment, "Uh, The Greektown?"
"Ever been there?"
"Once, for a meeting."
Luke made a noise like a buzzer going off. "Nope! We need one you've never been to."
A smile spread across Noah's face, catching on to what Luke was trying to do. "Neutral ground, got it. Well, I've never been to The Grand. It's supposed to be really nice."
"Dingdingding! We have a winner!" Noah laughed at Luke's playfulness and started up the engine.
The drive was short with the Manor closely situated to downtown and traffic not being a factor at that hour. They left the car with the valet and Luke threw down his Walsh Enterprises company credit card on the front desk, emphatically reassuring Noah that Lucinda would only be delighted if they maxed out the card. Knowing that to be true, they booked a suite and headed toward the elevator. As they rode up, Noah sent a quick message to both Javier and Brett letting them know that they were fine and that he'd see them later tomorrow, knowing especially that Javier would worry considering how he'd left the two of them. He switched off his phone, and gave Luke a wry look. "They'd worry if I didn't let them know we're okay."
"You have some really good friends," Luke offered.
Noah hung his head and smiled. "Yeah, I do."
The elevator dinged their arrival to one of the top floors. The room was easy to find and after a couple tries, the key card opened the door to a very spacious and stylishly furnished suite. Both of them dropped their bags and gravitated toward the windows that covered the curved, far wall of the room as the twinkling lights of the city diffused through the gauzy curtain. They pushed back the fabric and the city did its best to impress with its lights, the bridge, and a sliver of a moon all reflecting off the river in the distance.
"I always love looking at cities at night. It makes them look clean and magical," Luke said.
"Not gritty and full of crazies trying, allegedly, to steal your boyfriend?"
Luke's face flushed both with embarrassment at Noah's teasing and the warmth of hearing him call himself Luke's boyfriend once again. "Yeah, well." Luke shrugged and gave Noah an apologetic look. Noah in turn shook his head and cupped the side of Luke's face in his hand and placing a soft, slow kiss on his lips. Luke inhaled sharply, reawakening all of those memories shuttered deep in his brain as Noah's familiar scent filled his nostrils. His own arms reached around, pulling Noah flush against him as he kissed back in earnest. It soon became desperate, all roaming hands and lips with shuddered breaths panted out between nips along jaws and long, straining neck tendons. Feeling Noah like this in his arms once again, hearing those breathy moans against his ear and hands holding him strong, Luke felt as if a switch had been flipped in his body. Fear, shame and anguish that had burned so long deep within him were snuffed and flooded with joy, desire and love. It felt like he could breathe easier, his skin tingled with intense sensations, as if he could feel every hair stand on end with electricity. Sounds were sharper and tastes were stronger and more nuanced. His body started to shake.
Noah pulled away, evidently feeling Luke's shudders. "Baby, are you okay?"
Luke's grin threatened to split his face in two. He felt dizzy and drunk. "Yes! I'm just so… happy. So blissfully, ridiculously happy."
Noah smiled sweetly. "Same here."
The bold and brash part of Luke must have also been reawakened because he decided to take a gutsy leap. "I know we're just getting back together, and all the advice columnists and TV shows or whatnot say that we shouldn't sleep together yet, but I have a few counter-arguments to offer."
"Go on." Noah slipped off his jacket and threw it blindly toward a nearby chair, which he missed. He toed off and kicked his shoes away haphazardly as well.
"One. We waited SO LONG to have sex the first time around, so I think it would perfectly fair if we borrowed from that time bank."
Noah nodded, looking like he was listening to a scholarly lecture as he slipped off his glasses and took a moment to place them somewhere safe. As he walked back to Luke, he pulled his shirt off over his head and dropped it to the floor. "Agreed. Two?"
Luke paused a moment, drinking in Noah's chest, his arms, those ridiculously narrow hips which gave his jeans very little to grab hold. He snapped his eyes up and met Noah's soft smile. "Right. If memory serves me, we're good. No, great. No, we're toe-curling, mind-erasing, angels wept-"
"Angels?"
"Quiet! I'm on a role. Where was I?"
"Weeping angels."
"Right! What I'm trying to say is that we're phenomenal in bed, and why should we deny ourselves that? Don't we deserve to feel good? Self-harm is never a good path to follow, trust me on that."
Noah chuckled. "Done." He unfastened his jeans and they fell to the thick carpet with a muted thud. "Third?"
Luke's playfulness went away in a flash as he reached for Noah and closed the small distance between them. He slipped one hand onto the back of his neck and stared intently at his lips while his other hand landed firmly on the front of Noah's underwear, palming his growing erection through the thin fabric. "I've forgotten what you taste like, and that makes me want to stop breathing every second my lips aren't on your body."
Noah exhaled a loud groan and reached for Luke's lips with his own. They explored each other's mouths with tongues and teeth until Luke freed Noah from his underwear. Noah broke their kiss, his breath hot against Luke's neck as his hand started to travel the length of Noah's erection. The pace Luke set was slow while he reacquainted himself as his fingers traced every ridge and vein and his palm felt the heavy weight. The pads of his fingers drew tiny designs with the precome they found on the smooth skin at the tip of Noah's cock. Luke felt teeth gently bite his neck as he heard a deep groan of frustration escape Noah.
Luke brought Noah's hands up to his own shoulders before he went to his knees. He felt Noah sway a little but he held tight as Luke licked him from root to tip. The taste was intoxicating, like no other substance in the world to him. He quickly grabbed hold and swallowed as much of Noah as he could, letting his tongue flatten out as he slowly pulled back, tasting every last inch of him. The fingers at his shoulders dug in, fisting the shirt he still wore.
"Oh God, Luke." It was more of a groan than actual words. He leaned in for another taste, this time fluttering his tongue back and forth which almost made Noah collapse forward. The hands at his shoulders now pulled him back up for a feverish kiss. Noah burrowed a hand deep into Luke's hair while the other pulled at his hips, pressing his jean-clad body against Noah's bare skin. Teeth started to nip, breath began to shudder and Luke's entire universe started to shrink to the size of a hotel room.
Luke's equilibrium was starting to fail so he maneuvered them to the bed where Noah flopped down as soon as the backs of his legs felt the edge of the mattress. He lifted Noah's feet one at a time to pull his socks off, pausing as he saw the small meandering inscription near Noah's instep and traced it lightly with his fingers. Before Noah could jerk his ticklish foot away, he leaned in and placed a soft, firm kiss on those words. "Say it for me."
"Las piedras rodando se encuentran," Noah purred.
"You're good at that." He kissed Noah's ankle.
"I can say other things."
"Like?" Luke slowly started to drag his lips and tongue up Noah's leg.
"Um… taco. Queso fresco. Burro. Ca-casa." He hissed as Luke bit the skin just above his knee. "Hey!"
"You know about as much Spanish as you do Italian," Luke laughed.
Noah laughed with him. "I'm multi-lingual."
Luke arched an eyebrow. "I think we can find a better use for your linguistic skills."
"Absolutely." And with that Noah sat up and used his talented tongue to taste Luke's mouth again, reaching for the hem of Luke's shirt so he could strip it off. Luke scooted back and off the bed to shed the rest of his clothes. He stood beside the bed, his eyes sweeping over the body lying in front of him. It was so familiar; he knew every dimple, every childhood scar, and every place that made Noah's eyes roll back. It was also so foreign to him now. Different muscles, new scars, tattoos. But it was all still Noah, and it was all his. And the look on Noah's face, desire and want written there bold enough for the heavens to see, it fed the fire in Luke's chest even more.
Luke stepped away for a moment, making his way back to his bag by the door and rummaged around the pockets before returning to the bed. He deposited his cache on the nightstand and then climbed over to Noah, slowly lowering and pressing his body onto Noah's. He sighed as their bodies connected from legs to hips to stomachs to chests.
Their kisses grew frantic and needy as they moved against one another. They tasted each other's skin, marking each other with teeth and nails as they pushed and pulled at each other, fighting to give and take pleasure. Eight years of frustration were being exorcised from their bodies as they filled up their senses with each other once again.
Luke found himself lying on his back as Noah was pulling at his left nipple with his teeth, his hand carding through his chest hair. Luke hissed, the painful pleasure was almost too much. He felt like he was entering an altered state, where he hung in limbo of anguished desire. He just kept breathing, which was the only thing he felt like he could control right now, but then he felt Noah's fingers and he felt like he couldn't even do that anymore.
Noah's fingers, oh God, Noah's fingers were inside him. He hadn't even heard Noah open the lube. He arched his head back as Noah's long fingers caressed and prodded, stretching him open. They searched and found that spot that made Luke shout surrender as more lazy designs dripped from his weeping cock onto his belly.
"Please… oh fuck, please, Noah."
"Jesus baby, you look amazing," Noah crooned.
Luke's hand scrambled to his side, searching and finding the small foil packet. He shakily shoved it into Noah's hand, incapable of helping him put it on. He watched as Noah withdrew his fingers, much to Luke's disappointment, and tore open the wrapper with his teeth. With not so steady hands himself, Noah managed to roll the condom down his length, pausing at the base with a squeeze and an aching look toward Luke.
"Lie back," Luke said.
Noah leaned back, stretching himself out as Luke maneuvered, straddling him with his knees pressed deeply into the bed on either side of Noah's torso while his calves hugged Noah's thighs.
Luke grabbed the lube from where it lay on the bed, squeezing a fair amount onto his fingers before he reached behind himself and wrapped his hand around Noah's cock. He gave Noah only a couple strokes, knowing full well that they were both now riding the knife's edge of desire.
Rising, Luke lined up Noah's cock and slowly, deliciously, sank down. It had been a long time for Luke and he let loose a guttural groan, feeling the burn from being stretched. Noah's hands tightened at his hips, stilling him. Luke opened his eyes to see concern in Noah's eyes but just Luke leaned over and kissed it away as he sank lower and lower until the backs of his thighs sat on Noah's. He felt Noah clutch harder at his hips, exhaling forcefully as his fingers dug into the flesh of Luke's ass. They were still, reveling in the intimate feel of each other once again.
Noah then cradled Luke's face in his hands for a lingering kiss as they calmed their breaths and racing hearts. On an unspoken cue Luke tilted back and sat straight up. Noah slowly bent his knees out, digging his heels into the mattress as Luke lifted himself up slowly, keeping one hand where he could reach on Noah's stomach, the other joining Noah's on his own thigh. Luke flexed his legs rising higher and higher until just the tip of Noah remained in him. His thighs trembled with the strain until Noah hands dragged him back down in a strong, solid pull. They both gasped in delight from the sensation.
Luke looked down from where he sat on top of Noah and leered. "Let's make some magic, baby." To which Noah just smiled lustily.
Luke's pace was unhurried as they savored the pleasure in the each other's flesh. They moved languidly together like carnal liquid, drinking in each other in fluid waves. Luke's small gasps turned into whines and whimpers, spurning Noah's hands to grab on tighter to Luke's hips and urge him to quicken the pace. Luke was only happy to, letting the joy he felt bubble out of him in laughter. He felt unbridled and delirious.
Noah's legs dug in as his hands lifted Luke up slightly, tilting him so he fell forward just enough to brace himself against Noah's chest with both hands. He then held still as Noah thrust up into him, the new angle jolted the laugher from him. He cried out instead as the new sensation shorted out his ability to stay upright and fell onto Noah's chest.
"Oh fuck me," Luke groaned.
Noah chuckled into his hair. "That's what I'm trying to do."
Keeping himself buried deep inside Luke, Noah surged up until they were both sitting. Luke crossed his ankles behind Noah, keeping his heels dug into the bed. Biceps and thighs flexed as Noah and Luke rose up and thrust in tandem. Soon they were both panting out breathy moans and Luke started to lose himself once again. He groaned loud into Noah's ear, hitting a point of no return.
"Fuck me. Please, please Noah…"
And Noah did. He pushed Luke back on the bed, bringing his legs up to his arms and spreading him wide as he pushed forward, burying himself deeper and deeper into Luke with every powerful thrust. The sound of skin slapping against skin joined with the keening gasps and guttural shouts they made. Luke felt Noah reach for his cock.
"Want you to come with me," Noah huffed out above him. Luke was bowed back, his arms reaching out and searching for anything to grab onto to keep him grounded as Noah took him higher and higher with every stroke of his hand and snap of his hips.
When he came it was with a shout, drawn out and throaty which seemed to come from his toes as his eyes clamped tighter and the black behind his eyelids whited out. His body folded up, folded into Noah as he heard him howl as well, his momentum focused to a few shudders as he spilled himself into Luke.
Having been entirely spent, Noah gracelessly lowered himself onto Luke. His arms went slack which allowed Luke to slide his legs down into a more comfortable position since neither of them seemed to want to be separated quite yet.
Endorphins coursed through Luke's body, giving him goose-bumps as he shivered with uncontrollable emotions. He felt hot tears squeeze from the corners of his eyes as he gave in. His fears and anguish in losing so much mixed with the ecstasy of having Noah, the love of his life, back in his arms. He felt Noah shift and slip out of him, feeling that sudden emptiness threaten to spread to his chest until strong arms held him tight. Wet sniffles soon joined Luke's own.
Noah voice rasped dry and thick in his ear. "I love you Luke. I never stopped loving you."
"I love you too, Noah. Always."
They held each other a while longer. Soon their shivers of emotion turned into shivers from being cold. Noah sat up and pulled Luke with him out of bed. They made their way to the bathroom, pleasantly surprised to find a double-headed shower in the roomy stall. They took turns washing each other, baptizing themselves anew in hot water and hotel shampoo. They toweled off, somehow always touching, always keeping in contact with one another, neither of them wanting to lose that physical reminder that they were both there.
With a wink, Luke took both of their towels and threw them on the floor and turning, pulled Noah out of the bathroom and back to bed. They settled between the satin smooth sheets, the room suddenly much colder to their skin than it had been previously. They let their hands roam while they shared occasional soft kisses and sighs, snuggling in to the bed and each other.
"Don't wake me if this all turns out to be a dream," Noah hushed.
"If it's a dream, I promise to be here forever."
"And if it's not a dream?" Noah asked.
"I promise to be here forever."
~~~~~
Noah's ears told him he was in an unfamiliar place before his eyes could. The soft hum of a thermostat, the muted noises of traffic somewhere in the distance, and the quiet, almost inscrutable noise of someone's stomach grumbling close by were his clues. He grinned before he opened his eyes as memories of the previous night came flooding into his short-term memory bank. That, and the slight sting of tenderness behind his balls from when they woke up later in the night for round two brought reality into high-definition.
He blinked his eyes open and found himself looking into Luke's golden gaze.
"H'long you been up?" Noah half-mumbled into the pillow.
"Long enough to think about a few things."
"Uh-oh."
"Brat." Luke playfully shoved Noah's shoulder. "I also ordered breakfast from room service."
Noah hummed his approval, rubbing the sleep from his eyes and turning so his face was only a few inches from Luke's. "So what were you thinking about?"
Luke's hand spread across Noah's chest, fingers dragging patterns across his warm skin.
"I thought about how I wanted you to make fun of me watching reality shows. About arguing over which movie to go see and me sneaking onions into the pizza order." Noah's face scrunched up at the mention of onions. "I thought about getting you Gatorade and popsicles for when you're sick and signing our Christmas cards together. About you nagging me about my hair getting too long and bringing you to my AA meetings. I want to buy crunchy peanut butter and outrageously expensive coffee and have you be the first person I call when anything happens, good or bad. Every day I want to wake up and see your face, sheet-wrinkled and beautiful," Luke reached out to caress Noah's cheek, his voice now heavy with emotion. "I want that, I want this, for the rest of my life."
Noah captured Luke's hand in his and brought it between them, his lip curled up in a shy smile. "That sounds perfect."
~~~~~
Just over eight months later…
~~~~~
Luke's heart pounded as he propelled himself through the emergency room entrance. Amazingly, he was able to string enough words together at the nurse's station to find out where he needed to go.
Down the hall, take a left, through the doors, on your right…
As he ran, he pulled at his collar and wrenched the tie away from his neck as his skin prickled with sweat and adrenaline underneath his clothes. He slid around the corner, his dress shoes losing purchase on the polished hospital floor. He reached the door and fumbled with it, futilely pushing and pulling at the unmoving obstacle until he found the wall switch to activate it. His nerves frayed even more as the door slowly swung open toward him, swearing at the lack of urgency he thought was paramount in an emergency ward.
Looking to his right he jogged down the quiet hallway and passed alcove after alcove of beds, some empty, others occupied with exhausted looking patients and concerned loved ones at their side. He was almost at the end of the hallway, fretting that he'd heard the nurse's instructions wrong when he finally saw Noah.
Luke thought he would lose it right there, because nestled in Noah's strong arms was the tiniest bundle of pink. Sensing Luke was there, Noah looked up from the tiny face cradled in his elbow. The grin that greeted Luke could've rivaled the sun with its brilliance.
"She's-Luke, I can't get over how perfect she looks." The look of wonder that danced in Noah's eyes threatened to bring tears to Luke's own.
He slipped his arm around Noah and looked down at the tiny miracle in his arms and agreed, "Perfect."
"Can I get some credit over here? I mean, she's my kid after all." A very weary looking Brett drowsily called out from the bed.
"Of course!" Luke went to Brett's side, leaning over to kiss her forehead. "You did good, mama."
"She sure did," Robbie said warmly, his large hands holding on to one of Brett's, "she was a rockstar."
The room was quiet for a while, everyone taking turns holding little Elenor Kosta until she made her way back into Noah's willing embrace. The serenity of the moment was soon disturbed when two rather boisterous people rounded the corner.
"Happy birthday!" Javier shouted. The slim, bearded, redhead at his side in a matching tux shushed him, albeit through a fit of giggles. Javier put a finger to his lips and giggled as well. "Sorry!"
"Robbie, if either of their drunk asses tries to hold Elenor I want you to kick them in the nuts," Brett threatened.
"You got it babe."
Javier's hand automatically went to cover his crotch, while he displayed a look of indignation. "You wouldn't dare. We just left so we could start the honeymoon early," he gave Brett a lewd wink, "but everyone is still going strong back at the ballroom. I mean there's no reason for the party to end for everybody else, right? I mean, once they cleaned the dance floor, you know." Javier pulled a face expressing just how much the situation grossed him out.
Brett cooed at Javier from her bed, beckoning him over with her arms outstretched as if to hug him. But as soon as he got within a foot of her she started to swing haymakers at his head and shoulders. "You insensitive prick!"
"Hey! Watch it! I'm not the one who went into labor two weeks early during a wedding. And not just any wedding, my own you bitch!" He laughed as she continued to flail weakly at him. "You couldn't let me have my moment in the spotlight?"
"Ahem! Our moment, you mean." Nathan pulled Javier from Brett's assault. "Right dear?"
Javier turned and kissed him squarely on the lips. "Of course, oh hubby of mine."
Noah just rolled his eyes and looked to Brett. "Do you want her back?" he offered, nodding his head toward her little girl. Brett replied with a coy smile and reached out to receive her daughter once again.
Robbie then spoke up, "Okay guys, I don't want to be rude…"
"But get the fuck out," Brett finished.
Javier and Nathan didn't put up a fight and composed themselves long enough to say their goodbyes and swiftly left the room as quickly as they arrived.
Brett shook her head at them and deadpanned, "I should've gone into labor during the ceremony. That would've been hilarious."
"Well, this way you'll never forget their anniversary," Luke offered.
"Just promise me the two of you won't have your wedding while I'm pregnant. I really missed the open bar." Brett pouted.
Noah chuckled at his friend. "Deal." He reached for Luke's hand and squeezed it in his own. "I'm pretty sure you'll be in the clear."
Luke brought their entwined hands up to his lips and pressed a tender kiss over the ring around Noah's finger. They stared at each other for a moment, sharing silent affirmations and declarations, before they said their goodbyes to the new family and made their way out the building.
"So…" Noah lilted. The cold, winter air made his voice hang visibly in the air.
"I've always loved springtime at the farm," said Luke matter-of-factly.
"Yeah?" Noah asked, hopeful.
"Yeah. I mean, aside from the cottonwood trees going crazy, I think a spring wedding would be perfect out there. Heck, the cottonwood might actually add to the decor, don't you think?"
Noah laughed. "I can't believe I'm going to marry the biggest dork I know."
Luke stopped and pulled Noah into a sharp, quick kiss. "Believe it, bubby!"
.