Winner Takes All continued
Fic: Winner Takes All
Fandom: The Fast and the Furious
Characters: Cast from movie verse
Word Count: 9,305 total
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: Heavy language and some hints of non-consensual actions. Also sex. Duh.
Disclaimer: I do not own these characters and I make no profit from these works of fiction.
Summary: Runs during the time line of the film. Deals with Brian's inner monologue, mainly, and the complicated situation with Dom.
Yes, I know, I'm a terrible author! I'm sorry I haven't posted in awhile but I had to graduate, and I had to wait for the story to hit me again. This scene is of course in the film, but I couldn't resist using it since the Vince tension is quite important in my story. It's not just the film scenes, so bear with it. There will be more, I promise.
"There's a lot of reasons to race Brian."
Ch 4: Inequal Measures
"He moans like a cop!" Vince's shotgun greeted Brian as his eyes opened to a blurry scene. His heartbeat pounded where the gun had struck him, and Brian struggled for his best recourse while he appeared to gather his senses. Brian tugged at his shirt and found himself staring up at Dom, having come from the darkness like some phantom; like the Dom that yelled at him to return to the garage just days before. Brian's hands rose in surrender and found himself genuinely terrified, Dom's eyes held no amusement and Vince near the object of his hate with a shotgun didn't help.
"Brian this is one of those times when you need to be absolutely clear about what you say. Nod if you understand me." Brian stared up in fear, Dom's black shirt fading him into nothing.
"Nod!" Brian was nodding jerkily by the time Vince finished yelling.
"Sit up." Dom's tone was pure anger, his face contorted. Brian looked away, at Vince, getting a subtle permission to place his hands on the ground and lean forward. "Tell me what the hell you're doing down here." Brian was half on his knees, rocking forward and holding his aching head as he began to speak.
"Aw shit. What I'm doing. Dom, I owe- I owe you a 10 second car. And what this is about, this is about race wars-" Vince kicked at Brian's side, who slowly rocked back to upright, eyes on his interrogator. "I just went in there, and Hector is gonna be runnin 3 Honda Civics with Spoon engines, and on top of that he just came in to Harry's and he ordered 3 T-66 Turbos, with NOS and a Motech system exhaust."
"So what are you saying?" Dom's head tilted slightly, Brian was past the worst of it. "You gonna go around and check everybody's shit out? One garage after another?" Brian stared at Dom intensely, wishing he could talk to just him, and turned to the shotgun barrel, slowly moving.
"Yeah." Brian started to rise, eyes with Vince and hands open in defeat. "Because Dom you know, I can't lose again." Dominic stared back, his forehead furrowed as he realized what Brian meant. His demeanor relaxed slightly, and Brian again felt he was making progress.
"He's a cop." Vince chimed in and Brian gauged Dom's reaction, his breath too heavy and loud in the tense yard. "He's a cop!" Dom moved now, like a prowling animal.
"You a cop?" Brian wanted to laugh out of sheer disbelief. His only thought was hours of training for this moment, this exact situation, yet nothing could have prepared him. He tried to focus on his facial expression but felt like he failed. He shook his head and stared at Dom, his eyes full of fire and he knew he looked cocky. As soon as he shook his head Dom's expression softened, he nodded, and Brian wanted to cry from joy. "Let's go for a little ride." Dom was smiling now, and Brian felt like he'd just been saved from a burning building. Some part of him cried out to know why, and as Vince yelled at him his adrenaline subsided, he wondered now if this hadn't been simply to appease Vince. Brian walked between the men, thinking it would be entirely possible that this had been a rouse. For though Dom's demeanor had been his most hostile yet towards Brian, his brain caught up and corrected, since the walk back from the Tran's- this had been Dom's most abrasive stand against him. Something felt similar to that first night though, in his actions and eyes, the slight quirk of his lips when he'd said he wasn't a cop, and hadn't that all been to prove a point?
Jesse driving made the whole night surreal. He and Dom conversed quietly in the front while Vince and Brian silently conversed in the back. The Jetta felt smaller than Brian had ever imagined it could, and Vince's tight and loving grip on his guns infuriated and amused Brian. If only. If only his situation was genuine and he could fight the ape of a man like an equal. If only he was a known cop, not this stupid fucking undercover limbo, he could just arrest him. Since that first night at the house Vince's gun obsession had been an issue in the back of his head, Brian wishing he could do something about the firearms in the mix. Of everything they did it seemed to bother him the most that Vince was cocky and careless with them.
He glanced up front and Dom's eyes met his and held. He'd been turned to Jesse for their conversation, and he was now clearly not listening. Brian felt his lips tense as his hands rubbed his jeans. Dom quirked an eyebrow and rotated back to face the front. He glanced out the window then cursed in pain as his head collided with it, turning sharply to Vince who had smashed his head against the glass. "Fuck you man! What the hell is your problem?" Brian held the side of his head and glared at the dark-haired man, who's eyes were angry and mocking.
"Got a little tickle huh fag? Checking out the boys?" Vince giggled and waved a hand in the air.
"Oh real fucking mature asshole-" Brian nodded and made to hit him.
"-Oh come on faggot! I swear I'll-" Vince blocked his arm and attempted to grab his wrist.
"Hey! Both of you shut up!" Dom's voice rumbled loud throughout the car, Brian's mouth catching his retort to Vince. Brian was clearly more skilled than the other man.
"D he fucking-"
"-I don't- shut up Vince. We're here. Get control or stay in the car." He looked at Vince and then Brian, daring him to speak as well. He got out of the car first, the others following before Jesse drove away.
Brian's world lit up like a carnival as he saw the dvd players and mountain of electronics in the Tran's garage. It wasn't Dom. It wasn't his team jacking the trucks. Bilkins would shit a brick. He hardly heard the sound of the doors, but noticed the lights and heard Dom call out to him. He ran, panicked, to the back of the garage, where Dom's hand shot out to grab at his back. Brian got the characteristic chills that signified a touch from Dominic. He tried to focus on the situation, and noticed Vince staring at him. He watched as the mechanic was questioned and tortured, glad he had fared better tonight. They settled down in the back for a few minutes as they waited for the entourage to leave the garage. Dom and Vince mouthed words to each other, their conversation mostly a series of nods, some of which were directed at Brian. He could also tell when they talked about him because Vince's fingers would twitch on his gun and his lips would purse. Toretto gestured more openly towards Brian, usually seeming to confirm or deny something Vince had said.
Brian felt a hand grab his shirt and he was pulled down to the floor as his face pressed against the cold cement. His eyes faced the wall and fell on Dom, who was also on the ground, his finger pressed to his lips and his other hand holding down Brian's head. His fingers were heavy and warm on his scalp, his curls barely obscuring the sensation. He couldn't help think how unnecessary the action was. Brian had no intention of getting up while Dom lay supine in hiding next to him. Their breathing seemed monstrously loud to Brian. Dom's eyes followed the footsteps as they moved closer to their corner, finally watching them stop and retreat to the motorcycles. Brian's fingers twitched on the cold floor, his eyes closed in weariness and relief. Two fingers moved ever so slightly on his head and Brian was subject to chills again, the action confirming the contact as...what? Brian didn't have time to decipher the behavior as the others stood and he was whispered to move out.
++++
"You busy tonight Bri?" Dom stood in the back doorway of the shop, his bulk blocking most of the light that usually filtered in to Brian's tiny 'bedroom'.
"Dom? What are you doing here?" Brian tried to sit up, exhausted, the covers falling to his lap as he blinked at the other man. He left the doorway in response, coming to stand next to Brian's bed. His arms were folded on his chest-Dom's menacing posture-and he stared at the blonde. Brian felt like someone had cranked the thermostat, sweat starting on his back as he broke eye contact, suddenly painfully aware that Dom was shamelessly staring at his bare chest. "Dom, man-" Brian wanted to say something, anything, but words failed him. Suddenly hands were in his hair, ghosting over his head, the bigger man climbing on the bed with Brian. Their breathing was desperate and Brian felt Dom's fingers move gently and slowly down to his cheeks. Brian lifted his arm towards Dom's face, beginning to feel the shadow of a beard, and his cellphone rang.
Brian jolted and sat upright, his phone waking him. He reached for it and froze as the caller id informed him Dom was on the other end. Brian remembered his dream like it had happened, could feel the heat of Dom in the room and his smell on the sheets. Brian shivered and answered the phone, willing his hard-on to subside.
"Brian."
"Yeah, whats up?"
"I need you at the shop."
"Yeah, sorry. Let me just...be there soon." Brian closed his phone and fell down on the bed, his body begging for release. Brian threw the covers back in favor of a freezing shower, leaving the Dom-laden room and false memories.
Ch 5: Hostile Actions
"You got big plans tonight?" Brian froze as Dom looked at him, awaiting his answer. His dream echoed back to him, the question too similar, their bodies too close as they worked on the Supra's engine. Brian collected himself and answered, assuaging Dom's fears about hurting Mia. He had no intention of doing so, and planned to tell Mia he couldn't get serious with her right now, even if he wanted to. He didn't want her hurt in this. They left the garage for Dom to show him something, and the heat closed around Brian as they got into Dom's car.
Brian left the Charger's home thinking about the things Dom had said, "I live my life a quarter-mile at a time. Nothing else matters. Not the mortgage, not the store, not my team and all their bullshit. For those 10 seconds or less, I'm free.", and his honesty in discussing Linder and the incident, as well as the emotional ties to his father. Dom had supplied the information to Brian willingly, by choice. He could have burned the file and would still be where he was today.
"Bri?" Brian turned slowly, realizing he had been silent for at least five minutes, judging by their location in the city. Dominic was staring at him, the car stopped at a light, and his face was etched with concern. A hint of amusement showed through as it always seemed to when he looked at the blonde. Brian tried to smile. "Easy there blue eyes, don't want women rushing the car with that smile of yours."
"Ha ha." Brian crossed his arms and knew his lips had formed a definite pout. He neither cared how he looked nor was concerned with Dom's reaction. Luckily he laughed, and reached out and vigorously disturbed Brian's curls.
"Lighten up Bri. You know, I meant what I said back there. I live for the present, and I don't let things drag me down. The past is just that, and I'm finished with regrets." Dominic grabbed the wheel for a sharp turn, and Brian watched the tendons in his hands as he shifted in his seat. He thought about what Dom had said. 10 seconds of freedom, to freedom, for freedom- he felt like his brain was doing doughnuts with the concept. They were only miles from the garage now, the Supra calling them back for more hard labor, but Brian knew he wasn't ready to face the team after 'emotional time' with their leader.
"Does it ever last?" Brian turned to Dom as he spoke, noting the tension in his shoulders and arms suddenly.
"What?" Dom's voice was a low rumble, a sign of danger in this situation, if Brian chose to heed it.
"Your 10 second freedom." The car swerved to avoid a pickup and Brian had to grab the handle as Dom righted them. The car was silent for at least another mile before Dom's voice broke out.
"Not yet. It hasn't yet."
"So you race?"
"There's a lot of reasons to race Brian."
"Bullshit. I asked about you, not people in general." Dom pulled in to the lot in front of the shop and turned off the engine. Brian looked inside but no one was visible.
"I race because...I race to feel free Brian, and I think you know what I mean." With that Dom got out of the car, ending their conversation. Brian wondered if the topic was forever off-limits. Brian sat in the car, listening to a dog bark, and thought he must look like a cliche. He thought about how others would see this situation-how others did see their situation-and noticed Vince walking to the open bay of the shop.
"Fucking..." Brian heard Vince murmur quietly, surprised that his own thoughts were similar. Brian got out of the car slowly, wanting to resume work on the Supra. He wasn't sure whether thinking about things or forgetting things would be preferred right now, but hopefully work would help him either way. "Have a good time gorgeous?" Vince tossed a wrench in his hands that Brian could just make out as his eyes adjusted to the garage. He tried to walk past in ignorance. "Hey!" Vince halted Brian's movements with the wrench on his chest, and Brian glared at the other man.
"I'm just here to work." Brian made no move to dislodge the wrench Vince was holding. The other man was drunk, and while he would no doubt be uncontrolled in a fight, his reaction time would be laughingly slower than Brian's own. Vince spat on the cement.
"Bullshit. I know exactly what you're here for." He dropped the wrench from his chest and leaned in toward Brian, almost whispering in his ear. "You want Toretto's ass, B. But I'm not sure you know which-Mia's, or Dominic's." He hissed the last word and Brian didn't even remember hitting him. His fists were aching and his heartbeat was a dull pulse in various places of his body, his face, hands, sides. Vince couldn't hit hard enough in his present state to severely injure, but Brian registered the blows with pain and anger, only losing control more as he continued to fight the other man. Much like the first time they fought, Brian felt strong hands pulling him away from Vince, but with considereably more effort than before. "Fuck you! You god-damn faggot! Leave them alone or I swear I'll light you on fire while you fucking sleep!" Leon and Letty grabbed Vince before he could get a running start at Brian, and Brian barely realized he was yelling and struggling against Dom's hold.
"Fuck you Vince! I don't owe you shit! I fucking earn my place Vince, I earned it!" Brian thrashed and kicked with abandon.
"Brian! Spilner! Brian fucking listen to me! Calm down." Dom tried to soothe him as Mia and Jesse watched, Brian just realizing the scene he had made. He looked at Vince and noticed he hadn't calmed down either, Leon and Letty were starting to lose their hold. Brian felt his body shaking now, strong arms holding him up around his chest and waist, pinning his arms. He slumped against Dom, exhaustion and shame finally catching up with him. "You guys got him?" Dom nodded his head in Vince's direction.
"Fucking hell D-what happened? Vince! Knock it off!" Letty's surprisingly shrill voice rang out as Vince tried to kick at Leon. "Yeah, we got him." With that Leon tried to restrain his arms, psych-ward style, but one of Vince's arms slipped free and he swiped at Letty.
"Let me at him! You stay away from our family! You fucking faggot cop!" With Vince's yells Brian felt his blood boil again, he began to mobilize but Dom was faster, effeciently knocking Brian off balance and catching him simultaneously. Brian barely saw Mia move before he registered what she'd done-one sharp punch to Vince's jaw that had stunned him into silence and ceased his struggling.
"Thanks girl." Letty breathed hard and Leon wiped his brow.
"God V- you're such a bastard." Mia stared at Vince, her jaw set and her posture on edge. Brian couldn't see her face.
"Fucking hell," Jesse brought a hand to his head, and rubbed Mia's back.
"Thanks Mia, I'm gonna deal with this idiot." Dom hoisted Brian towards his car as the others sat Vince down.
"What the fuck Dom-you know he fucking started it!"
"You didn't have to finish it. I'm not your fucking father Brian." Dom manhandled the slighter frame into the passenger side of his car, closing the door. He stood with his hands on his hips. "Don't you dare try to move." Brian glared up at him, wanting to run, scream, tell him how ridiculous this entire fucking situation was, but instead he slumped in the seat. It felt like some bad novel or B-roll movie. He hadn't intended to fight Vince, but everyone had their limit. Dom was in the car locking the doors and speeding off, assuming correctly that stopping or driving slowly would give Brian an opportunity flee. He drove them onto the highway before he spoke. "You need to drive?" The question surprised Brian and he glanced at Dom. The other man was serious, deadly so, and Brian noted the testing-pushing-pulling tension that used to be more frequent.
"No." Brian pulled himself up slightly with the handle and looked at Dom. "No, I'm fine." Dom made a mocking sound.
"You're so far from fine Bri. You know how V gets. I thought you were the responsible one." Dom kicked the car up a gear before he continued. "What the fuck did he say this time that you just couldn't let go?"
"Can we stop somewhere?" Dom's head turned to Brian, surprised. "I want some ice." Brian shrugged with his answer, and Dom made a frustrated sound before taking the next exit.
"Besides calling me a faggot?"
"Yeah, besides that Brian. I know you've gotten that all your life, so don't tell me that was all it took, pretty boy." Brian bristled but reminded himself Toretto was on his side, and he let the comment slide. Dom slowed to a large diner that Brian vaguely recognized. They walked inside in silence and Brian asked for ice before proceeding to the men's room. Dom followed him in, washing his face and hands in the sink when he got there. Brian's face didn't look that bad, and he held the ice to his side instead. Brian sighed before speaking.
"The usual, "Have a good time gorgeous?” Brian imitated. “I told him I was there to work, and he basically insinuated I was only there for ass.” Dom dried off his hands and stood up straight, looking at Brian in the mirror. He threw away his paper towel.
“He knows you’re taking Mia out tonight. I don’t have to tell you how he feels about that. He’s always had a thing for Mia-”
“-Yours.” Brian met Dom’s gaze as he turned to him.
“What?” Brian couldn't help notice that Dom averted his eyes, and didn't seem surprised. Brian sighed.
“You fucking heard me Dom. He said I was only around to get a piece of your ass.”
“And you just went off?”
“Yeah! Fuck, I mean, how was I supposed to react? I'm tired of having to earn every damn breath around him!” Brian shoved off from the wall, gesturing with his ice and immediately regretting it. Dom took a step towards Brian in the small bathroom. He started to speak when his phone rang.
“Yeah. Hey baby, no, no. I’m just-no Letty, Letty! Calm down. I’m just straightening him out-they were both stupid, and with V drunk-yeah. No, no, Letty...No! Listen I’m sorry, baby relax.” There was a long pause and the men’s eyes met. “If you’re going to listen to him Letty, that’s your problem, not mine.” Dom hung up the cell. “We have a real problem here Brian.” Brian stared at him, worried he’d blown this entire assignment. And that he'd fucked things up with Dom. He twitched his fingers on the ice bag as he realized which sounded worse. “See, I like you. You’re a good mechanic and a better driver. You’re smart on your feet and don’t loose that nice calm of yours. Except in situations like this, against my team.”
“Not your team! Just Vince!” Brian’s heart was pounding, afraid he was going to be discarded, left at the 'All Night Diner' with a bag of ice in a dirty men’s room.
“Who is a part of my team.” Dom stared at him, his arms folding across his chest. “But you Brian, you’re not a member of my team, and it’s starting to confuse things.” Brian looked up now, and the other man was smirking. Smirking, of all the times and all the situations! Brian hated him. He shifted his ice as Dom watched, and he suddenly remembered their conversation over the Charger; Dom referring to his team while Brian was clearly not included in that. He wasn’t included in the list of things that ‘didn’t matter’, but was the recipient of this news, this privileged information that Brian felt now he had no right to know.
“So..what happens?” Brian couldn’t take it anymore and had to ask.
“I race." Brian's face was a mask of confusion, alarm taking over as he realized what Dom meant-just as he felt Dom's hands in his hair and full lips assaulting his own. Brian's body kicked into overdrive, he dropped the bag of ice and grabbed for a lifehold on Dom, one hand on his back and the other his smooth scalp. Dom's tongue traced Brian's lips and his hands pulled his curls, hard enough for Brian to take in a sharp breath. Dominic took the opportunity to slide his tongue into Brian's mouth. Hands ran along the muscled back covered by Dom's white shirt, and Brian found he was frustrated by the garment. Strong hands grabbed Brian's ass and he made a strangled noise in response.
It was nothing like that first night, Dom's hands welcome and assuring now, the strength and possession making Brian's heart race and his body respond as Dom's strong arms lifted him inches off the ground. Brian felt his back slide up the wall and he ruthlessly grabbed at Dom's head and back, who broke from kissing his mouth to bite his chest and shoulders. Brian felt his head hit the tile behind him as Dom sucked a nipple through his shirt, and he tried to contain a moan by reaching to tug at Dom's own nipples. This only increased Brian's arousal for Dom doubled his efforts in response, biting at his chest and neck while ruthlessly digging his fingertips into the ass he held up. Dom let a shuddered breath go as he kissed at the blonde's shoulders, pulling back to look him in the eye.
Brian met the gaze and held, all sensation intensified and their erections meeting between them, reminding them of each other. Brian saw an honest, open question. What was this? What were they doing? And more importantly, were they going to continue? Brian tried to focus on bringing his erection down, counting breaths and watching sweat shine on the bald head in front of him. He failed when Dom's head fell to the slighter chest, just resting there as his breath came in heavy drags, and Brian grabbed his head to kiss him with abandon. The kiss was returned in full, and Brian started to reach down to Dom's belt. He froze and pulled back, Brian cursing himself for pushing too hard, too fast. Dominic looked at him and slowly lowered him to the ground, hands coming to brush his arm and play with his curls. Brian sighed and closed his eyes, relieved he hadn't completely scared the other man off. He realized he had no idea how Dom felt about sex with men, or how his life had played out in prison. He blinked and suddenly felt he knew next to nothing about important parts of Dom's life.
"Not here. We need to get back, anyway." The darker man stroked down Brian's fair arms, a soothing, closing gesture to their exchange.
"Yeah," Brian answered lamely, feeling stupid and wishing he'd said nothing. He picked up the bag of ice and threw it away. Dom checked their reflections in the mirror and surprised Brian by grabbing his neck and face for one last blood-rushing kiss. Two months ago and Brian would have said anything but this for his future. He kissed back, hand on the small of his assailant's back, other hand stroking the bald head-for Dom would make low moaning sounds and his kissing would falter for a moment. Brian reached down boldly and grabbed his ass, Dom's entire body arching up in surprise as he thrust his tongue more deeply into the thinner man's mouth. He copped a feel of Brian and squeezed his arms before pushing him away.
They left the bathroom to stares from waitresses, a few patrons whispering and nodding in their directions. Brian heard snippets of Spanish and knew the customers had guessed at their actions in the bano. He could absolutely care less. He held his head high as he walked behind Dom, who threw the keys to him just outside the door of the diner with a dazzling grin on his face.
Fandom: The Fast and the Furious
Characters: Cast from movie verse
Word Count: 9,305 total
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: Heavy language and some hints of non-consensual actions. Also sex. Duh.
Disclaimer: I do not own these characters and I make no profit from these works of fiction.
Summary: Runs during the time line of the film. Deals with Brian's inner monologue, mainly, and the complicated situation with Dom.
Yes, I know, I'm a terrible author! I'm sorry I haven't posted in awhile but I had to graduate, and I had to wait for the story to hit me again. This scene is of course in the film, but I couldn't resist using it since the Vince tension is quite important in my story. It's not just the film scenes, so bear with it. There will be more, I promise.
"There's a lot of reasons to race Brian."
Ch 4: Inequal Measures
"He moans like a cop!" Vince's shotgun greeted Brian as his eyes opened to a blurry scene. His heartbeat pounded where the gun had struck him, and Brian struggled for his best recourse while he appeared to gather his senses. Brian tugged at his shirt and found himself staring up at Dom, having come from the darkness like some phantom; like the Dom that yelled at him to return to the garage just days before. Brian's hands rose in surrender and found himself genuinely terrified, Dom's eyes held no amusement and Vince near the object of his hate with a shotgun didn't help.
"Brian this is one of those times when you need to be absolutely clear about what you say. Nod if you understand me." Brian stared up in fear, Dom's black shirt fading him into nothing.
"Nod!" Brian was nodding jerkily by the time Vince finished yelling.
"Sit up." Dom's tone was pure anger, his face contorted. Brian looked away, at Vince, getting a subtle permission to place his hands on the ground and lean forward. "Tell me what the hell you're doing down here." Brian was half on his knees, rocking forward and holding his aching head as he began to speak.
"Aw shit. What I'm doing. Dom, I owe- I owe you a 10 second car. And what this is about, this is about race wars-" Vince kicked at Brian's side, who slowly rocked back to upright, eyes on his interrogator. "I just went in there, and Hector is gonna be runnin 3 Honda Civics with Spoon engines, and on top of that he just came in to Harry's and he ordered 3 T-66 Turbos, with NOS and a Motech system exhaust."
"So what are you saying?" Dom's head tilted slightly, Brian was past the worst of it. "You gonna go around and check everybody's shit out? One garage after another?" Brian stared at Dom intensely, wishing he could talk to just him, and turned to the shotgun barrel, slowly moving.
"Yeah." Brian started to rise, eyes with Vince and hands open in defeat. "Because Dom you know, I can't lose again." Dominic stared back, his forehead furrowed as he realized what Brian meant. His demeanor relaxed slightly, and Brian again felt he was making progress.
"He's a cop." Vince chimed in and Brian gauged Dom's reaction, his breath too heavy and loud in the tense yard. "He's a cop!" Dom moved now, like a prowling animal.
"You a cop?" Brian wanted to laugh out of sheer disbelief. His only thought was hours of training for this moment, this exact situation, yet nothing could have prepared him. He tried to focus on his facial expression but felt like he failed. He shook his head and stared at Dom, his eyes full of fire and he knew he looked cocky. As soon as he shook his head Dom's expression softened, he nodded, and Brian wanted to cry from joy. "Let's go for a little ride." Dom was smiling now, and Brian felt like he'd just been saved from a burning building. Some part of him cried out to know why, and as Vince yelled at him his adrenaline subsided, he wondered now if this hadn't been simply to appease Vince. Brian walked between the men, thinking it would be entirely possible that this had been a rouse. For though Dom's demeanor had been his most hostile yet towards Brian, his brain caught up and corrected, since the walk back from the Tran's- this had been Dom's most abrasive stand against him. Something felt similar to that first night though, in his actions and eyes, the slight quirk of his lips when he'd said he wasn't a cop, and hadn't that all been to prove a point?
Jesse driving made the whole night surreal. He and Dom conversed quietly in the front while Vince and Brian silently conversed in the back. The Jetta felt smaller than Brian had ever imagined it could, and Vince's tight and loving grip on his guns infuriated and amused Brian. If only. If only his situation was genuine and he could fight the ape of a man like an equal. If only he was a known cop, not this stupid fucking undercover limbo, he could just arrest him. Since that first night at the house Vince's gun obsession had been an issue in the back of his head, Brian wishing he could do something about the firearms in the mix. Of everything they did it seemed to bother him the most that Vince was cocky and careless with them.
He glanced up front and Dom's eyes met his and held. He'd been turned to Jesse for their conversation, and he was now clearly not listening. Brian felt his lips tense as his hands rubbed his jeans. Dom quirked an eyebrow and rotated back to face the front. He glanced out the window then cursed in pain as his head collided with it, turning sharply to Vince who had smashed his head against the glass. "Fuck you man! What the hell is your problem?" Brian held the side of his head and glared at the dark-haired man, who's eyes were angry and mocking.
"Got a little tickle huh fag? Checking out the boys?" Vince giggled and waved a hand in the air.
"Oh real fucking mature asshole-" Brian nodded and made to hit him.
"-Oh come on faggot! I swear I'll-" Vince blocked his arm and attempted to grab his wrist.
"Hey! Both of you shut up!" Dom's voice rumbled loud throughout the car, Brian's mouth catching his retort to Vince. Brian was clearly more skilled than the other man.
"D he fucking-"
"-I don't- shut up Vince. We're here. Get control or stay in the car." He looked at Vince and then Brian, daring him to speak as well. He got out of the car first, the others following before Jesse drove away.
Brian's world lit up like a carnival as he saw the dvd players and mountain of electronics in the Tran's garage. It wasn't Dom. It wasn't his team jacking the trucks. Bilkins would shit a brick. He hardly heard the sound of the doors, but noticed the lights and heard Dom call out to him. He ran, panicked, to the back of the garage, where Dom's hand shot out to grab at his back. Brian got the characteristic chills that signified a touch from Dominic. He tried to focus on the situation, and noticed Vince staring at him. He watched as the mechanic was questioned and tortured, glad he had fared better tonight. They settled down in the back for a few minutes as they waited for the entourage to leave the garage. Dom and Vince mouthed words to each other, their conversation mostly a series of nods, some of which were directed at Brian. He could also tell when they talked about him because Vince's fingers would twitch on his gun and his lips would purse. Toretto gestured more openly towards Brian, usually seeming to confirm or deny something Vince had said.
Brian felt a hand grab his shirt and he was pulled down to the floor as his face pressed against the cold cement. His eyes faced the wall and fell on Dom, who was also on the ground, his finger pressed to his lips and his other hand holding down Brian's head. His fingers were heavy and warm on his scalp, his curls barely obscuring the sensation. He couldn't help think how unnecessary the action was. Brian had no intention of getting up while Dom lay supine in hiding next to him. Their breathing seemed monstrously loud to Brian. Dom's eyes followed the footsteps as they moved closer to their corner, finally watching them stop and retreat to the motorcycles. Brian's fingers twitched on the cold floor, his eyes closed in weariness and relief. Two fingers moved ever so slightly on his head and Brian was subject to chills again, the action confirming the contact as...what? Brian didn't have time to decipher the behavior as the others stood and he was whispered to move out.
++++
"You busy tonight Bri?" Dom stood in the back doorway of the shop, his bulk blocking most of the light that usually filtered in to Brian's tiny 'bedroom'.
"Dom? What are you doing here?" Brian tried to sit up, exhausted, the covers falling to his lap as he blinked at the other man. He left the doorway in response, coming to stand next to Brian's bed. His arms were folded on his chest-Dom's menacing posture-and he stared at the blonde. Brian felt like someone had cranked the thermostat, sweat starting on his back as he broke eye contact, suddenly painfully aware that Dom was shamelessly staring at his bare chest. "Dom, man-" Brian wanted to say something, anything, but words failed him. Suddenly hands were in his hair, ghosting over his head, the bigger man climbing on the bed with Brian. Their breathing was desperate and Brian felt Dom's fingers move gently and slowly down to his cheeks. Brian lifted his arm towards Dom's face, beginning to feel the shadow of a beard, and his cellphone rang.
Brian jolted and sat upright, his phone waking him. He reached for it and froze as the caller id informed him Dom was on the other end. Brian remembered his dream like it had happened, could feel the heat of Dom in the room and his smell on the sheets. Brian shivered and answered the phone, willing his hard-on to subside.
"Brian."
"Yeah, whats up?"
"I need you at the shop."
"Yeah, sorry. Let me just...be there soon." Brian closed his phone and fell down on the bed, his body begging for release. Brian threw the covers back in favor of a freezing shower, leaving the Dom-laden room and false memories.
Ch 5: Hostile Actions
"You got big plans tonight?" Brian froze as Dom looked at him, awaiting his answer. His dream echoed back to him, the question too similar, their bodies too close as they worked on the Supra's engine. Brian collected himself and answered, assuaging Dom's fears about hurting Mia. He had no intention of doing so, and planned to tell Mia he couldn't get serious with her right now, even if he wanted to. He didn't want her hurt in this. They left the garage for Dom to show him something, and the heat closed around Brian as they got into Dom's car.
Brian left the Charger's home thinking about the things Dom had said, "I live my life a quarter-mile at a time. Nothing else matters. Not the mortgage, not the store, not my team and all their bullshit. For those 10 seconds or less, I'm free.", and his honesty in discussing Linder and the incident, as well as the emotional ties to his father. Dom had supplied the information to Brian willingly, by choice. He could have burned the file and would still be where he was today.
"Bri?" Brian turned slowly, realizing he had been silent for at least five minutes, judging by their location in the city. Dominic was staring at him, the car stopped at a light, and his face was etched with concern. A hint of amusement showed through as it always seemed to when he looked at the blonde. Brian tried to smile. "Easy there blue eyes, don't want women rushing the car with that smile of yours."
"Ha ha." Brian crossed his arms and knew his lips had formed a definite pout. He neither cared how he looked nor was concerned with Dom's reaction. Luckily he laughed, and reached out and vigorously disturbed Brian's curls.
"Lighten up Bri. You know, I meant what I said back there. I live for the present, and I don't let things drag me down. The past is just that, and I'm finished with regrets." Dominic grabbed the wheel for a sharp turn, and Brian watched the tendons in his hands as he shifted in his seat. He thought about what Dom had said. 10 seconds of freedom, to freedom, for freedom- he felt like his brain was doing doughnuts with the concept. They were only miles from the garage now, the Supra calling them back for more hard labor, but Brian knew he wasn't ready to face the team after 'emotional time' with their leader.
"Does it ever last?" Brian turned to Dom as he spoke, noting the tension in his shoulders and arms suddenly.
"What?" Dom's voice was a low rumble, a sign of danger in this situation, if Brian chose to heed it.
"Your 10 second freedom." The car swerved to avoid a pickup and Brian had to grab the handle as Dom righted them. The car was silent for at least another mile before Dom's voice broke out.
"Not yet. It hasn't yet."
"So you race?"
"There's a lot of reasons to race Brian."
"Bullshit. I asked about you, not people in general." Dom pulled in to the lot in front of the shop and turned off the engine. Brian looked inside but no one was visible.
"I race because...I race to feel free Brian, and I think you know what I mean." With that Dom got out of the car, ending their conversation. Brian wondered if the topic was forever off-limits. Brian sat in the car, listening to a dog bark, and thought he must look like a cliche. He thought about how others would see this situation-how others did see their situation-and noticed Vince walking to the open bay of the shop.
"Fucking..." Brian heard Vince murmur quietly, surprised that his own thoughts were similar. Brian got out of the car slowly, wanting to resume work on the Supra. He wasn't sure whether thinking about things or forgetting things would be preferred right now, but hopefully work would help him either way. "Have a good time gorgeous?" Vince tossed a wrench in his hands that Brian could just make out as his eyes adjusted to the garage. He tried to walk past in ignorance. "Hey!" Vince halted Brian's movements with the wrench on his chest, and Brian glared at the other man.
"I'm just here to work." Brian made no move to dislodge the wrench Vince was holding. The other man was drunk, and while he would no doubt be uncontrolled in a fight, his reaction time would be laughingly slower than Brian's own. Vince spat on the cement.
"Bullshit. I know exactly what you're here for." He dropped the wrench from his chest and leaned in toward Brian, almost whispering in his ear. "You want Toretto's ass, B. But I'm not sure you know which-Mia's, or Dominic's." He hissed the last word and Brian didn't even remember hitting him. His fists were aching and his heartbeat was a dull pulse in various places of his body, his face, hands, sides. Vince couldn't hit hard enough in his present state to severely injure, but Brian registered the blows with pain and anger, only losing control more as he continued to fight the other man. Much like the first time they fought, Brian felt strong hands pulling him away from Vince, but with considereably more effort than before. "Fuck you! You god-damn faggot! Leave them alone or I swear I'll light you on fire while you fucking sleep!" Leon and Letty grabbed Vince before he could get a running start at Brian, and Brian barely realized he was yelling and struggling against Dom's hold.
"Fuck you Vince! I don't owe you shit! I fucking earn my place Vince, I earned it!" Brian thrashed and kicked with abandon.
"Brian! Spilner! Brian fucking listen to me! Calm down." Dom tried to soothe him as Mia and Jesse watched, Brian just realizing the scene he had made. He looked at Vince and noticed he hadn't calmed down either, Leon and Letty were starting to lose their hold. Brian felt his body shaking now, strong arms holding him up around his chest and waist, pinning his arms. He slumped against Dom, exhaustion and shame finally catching up with him. "You guys got him?" Dom nodded his head in Vince's direction.
"Fucking hell D-what happened? Vince! Knock it off!" Letty's surprisingly shrill voice rang out as Vince tried to kick at Leon. "Yeah, we got him." With that Leon tried to restrain his arms, psych-ward style, but one of Vince's arms slipped free and he swiped at Letty.
"Let me at him! You stay away from our family! You fucking faggot cop!" With Vince's yells Brian felt his blood boil again, he began to mobilize but Dom was faster, effeciently knocking Brian off balance and catching him simultaneously. Brian barely saw Mia move before he registered what she'd done-one sharp punch to Vince's jaw that had stunned him into silence and ceased his struggling.
"Thanks girl." Letty breathed hard and Leon wiped his brow.
"God V- you're such a bastard." Mia stared at Vince, her jaw set and her posture on edge. Brian couldn't see her face.
"Fucking hell," Jesse brought a hand to his head, and rubbed Mia's back.
"Thanks Mia, I'm gonna deal with this idiot." Dom hoisted Brian towards his car as the others sat Vince down.
"What the fuck Dom-you know he fucking started it!"
"You didn't have to finish it. I'm not your fucking father Brian." Dom manhandled the slighter frame into the passenger side of his car, closing the door. He stood with his hands on his hips. "Don't you dare try to move." Brian glared up at him, wanting to run, scream, tell him how ridiculous this entire fucking situation was, but instead he slumped in the seat. It felt like some bad novel or B-roll movie. He hadn't intended to fight Vince, but everyone had their limit. Dom was in the car locking the doors and speeding off, assuming correctly that stopping or driving slowly would give Brian an opportunity flee. He drove them onto the highway before he spoke. "You need to drive?" The question surprised Brian and he glanced at Dom. The other man was serious, deadly so, and Brian noted the testing-pushing-pulling tension that used to be more frequent.
"No." Brian pulled himself up slightly with the handle and looked at Dom. "No, I'm fine." Dom made a mocking sound.
"You're so far from fine Bri. You know how V gets. I thought you were the responsible one." Dom kicked the car up a gear before he continued. "What the fuck did he say this time that you just couldn't let go?"
"Can we stop somewhere?" Dom's head turned to Brian, surprised. "I want some ice." Brian shrugged with his answer, and Dom made a frustrated sound before taking the next exit.
"Besides calling me a faggot?"
"Yeah, besides that Brian. I know you've gotten that all your life, so don't tell me that was all it took, pretty boy." Brian bristled but reminded himself Toretto was on his side, and he let the comment slide. Dom slowed to a large diner that Brian vaguely recognized. They walked inside in silence and Brian asked for ice before proceeding to the men's room. Dom followed him in, washing his face and hands in the sink when he got there. Brian's face didn't look that bad, and he held the ice to his side instead. Brian sighed before speaking.
"The usual, "Have a good time gorgeous?” Brian imitated. “I told him I was there to work, and he basically insinuated I was only there for ass.” Dom dried off his hands and stood up straight, looking at Brian in the mirror. He threw away his paper towel.
“He knows you’re taking Mia out tonight. I don’t have to tell you how he feels about that. He’s always had a thing for Mia-”
“-Yours.” Brian met Dom’s gaze as he turned to him.
“What?” Brian couldn't help notice that Dom averted his eyes, and didn't seem surprised. Brian sighed.
“You fucking heard me Dom. He said I was only around to get a piece of your ass.”
“And you just went off?”
“Yeah! Fuck, I mean, how was I supposed to react? I'm tired of having to earn every damn breath around him!” Brian shoved off from the wall, gesturing with his ice and immediately regretting it. Dom took a step towards Brian in the small bathroom. He started to speak when his phone rang.
“Yeah. Hey baby, no, no. I’m just-no Letty, Letty! Calm down. I’m just straightening him out-they were both stupid, and with V drunk-yeah. No, no, Letty...No! Listen I’m sorry, baby relax.” There was a long pause and the men’s eyes met. “If you’re going to listen to him Letty, that’s your problem, not mine.” Dom hung up the cell. “We have a real problem here Brian.” Brian stared at him, worried he’d blown this entire assignment. And that he'd fucked things up with Dom. He twitched his fingers on the ice bag as he realized which sounded worse. “See, I like you. You’re a good mechanic and a better driver. You’re smart on your feet and don’t loose that nice calm of yours. Except in situations like this, against my team.”
“Not your team! Just Vince!” Brian’s heart was pounding, afraid he was going to be discarded, left at the 'All Night Diner' with a bag of ice in a dirty men’s room.
“Who is a part of my team.” Dom stared at him, his arms folding across his chest. “But you Brian, you’re not a member of my team, and it’s starting to confuse things.” Brian looked up now, and the other man was smirking. Smirking, of all the times and all the situations! Brian hated him. He shifted his ice as Dom watched, and he suddenly remembered their conversation over the Charger; Dom referring to his team while Brian was clearly not included in that. He wasn’t included in the list of things that ‘didn’t matter’, but was the recipient of this news, this privileged information that Brian felt now he had no right to know.
“So..what happens?” Brian couldn’t take it anymore and had to ask.
“I race." Brian's face was a mask of confusion, alarm taking over as he realized what Dom meant-just as he felt Dom's hands in his hair and full lips assaulting his own. Brian's body kicked into overdrive, he dropped the bag of ice and grabbed for a lifehold on Dom, one hand on his back and the other his smooth scalp. Dom's tongue traced Brian's lips and his hands pulled his curls, hard enough for Brian to take in a sharp breath. Dominic took the opportunity to slide his tongue into Brian's mouth. Hands ran along the muscled back covered by Dom's white shirt, and Brian found he was frustrated by the garment. Strong hands grabbed Brian's ass and he made a strangled noise in response.
It was nothing like that first night, Dom's hands welcome and assuring now, the strength and possession making Brian's heart race and his body respond as Dom's strong arms lifted him inches off the ground. Brian felt his back slide up the wall and he ruthlessly grabbed at Dom's head and back, who broke from kissing his mouth to bite his chest and shoulders. Brian felt his head hit the tile behind him as Dom sucked a nipple through his shirt, and he tried to contain a moan by reaching to tug at Dom's own nipples. This only increased Brian's arousal for Dom doubled his efforts in response, biting at his chest and neck while ruthlessly digging his fingertips into the ass he held up. Dom let a shuddered breath go as he kissed at the blonde's shoulders, pulling back to look him in the eye.
Brian met the gaze and held, all sensation intensified and their erections meeting between them, reminding them of each other. Brian saw an honest, open question. What was this? What were they doing? And more importantly, were they going to continue? Brian tried to focus on bringing his erection down, counting breaths and watching sweat shine on the bald head in front of him. He failed when Dom's head fell to the slighter chest, just resting there as his breath came in heavy drags, and Brian grabbed his head to kiss him with abandon. The kiss was returned in full, and Brian started to reach down to Dom's belt. He froze and pulled back, Brian cursing himself for pushing too hard, too fast. Dominic looked at him and slowly lowered him to the ground, hands coming to brush his arm and play with his curls. Brian sighed and closed his eyes, relieved he hadn't completely scared the other man off. He realized he had no idea how Dom felt about sex with men, or how his life had played out in prison. He blinked and suddenly felt he knew next to nothing about important parts of Dom's life.
"Not here. We need to get back, anyway." The darker man stroked down Brian's fair arms, a soothing, closing gesture to their exchange.
"Yeah," Brian answered lamely, feeling stupid and wishing he'd said nothing. He picked up the bag of ice and threw it away. Dom checked their reflections in the mirror and surprised Brian by grabbing his neck and face for one last blood-rushing kiss. Two months ago and Brian would have said anything but this for his future. He kissed back, hand on the small of his assailant's back, other hand stroking the bald head-for Dom would make low moaning sounds and his kissing would falter for a moment. Brian reached down boldly and grabbed his ass, Dom's entire body arching up in surprise as he thrust his tongue more deeply into the thinner man's mouth. He copped a feel of Brian and squeezed his arms before pushing him away.
They left the bathroom to stares from waitresses, a few patrons whispering and nodding in their directions. Brian heard snippets of Spanish and knew the customers had guessed at their actions in the bano. He could absolutely care less. He held his head high as he walked behind Dom, who threw the keys to him just outside the door of the diner with a dazzling grin on his face.