The Way You Touched Me - Chapter 15

[we_dreamerz]

The Way You Touched Me - Chapter 15
By: we_dreamerz
Betaed By: atomic_dawn
Pairing: Adam Lambert/Tommy Ratliff
Genre & Timeline: RPS - AU Fantasy
Rating: NC17
Word Count: 8,784
Status: WIP
Warnings: AU - This story will varry from canon. And the timeline is NOT the same.
Disclaimer: It's not true...it didn't happen and Adam and Tommy belong to themselves. This is fiction. (Or so they want us to believe)

Summary: Adam has just stepped off of the American Idol tour and into the exhausting life of a rock star. It's everything he's always wanted but something is missing. Tommy has dreams; dreams that don't include living the ordinary, boring life laid out for him. But when you're a Pixie, what other choice do you have? They come from different worlds, but when they touch, the magic is undeniable.



Chapter 15

It should have been awkward. He should have probably gotten up, put on his shoes and politely left with a firm hand shake and a promise to see Adam at ten on the dot. But Tommy did none of those things. Instead, he lay there in the slowly dawning sunshine, staring, transfixed by Adam’s sleeping face.

Adam had worn off most of his make up and Tommy smiled at the generous spray of freckles across Adam’s face. He found himself counting them, abruptly losing track when he got to Adam’s lips. They were freckled too and Tommy licked his lips, wondering how they tasted.

When Tommy looked up, Adam’s eyes were open, his face soft and content. But then he smiled and Tommy couldn’t breathe. It wasn’t his rock star smile, or the one he gave to his friends. It was sweet and intimate, like a secret shared between them. Tommy smiled back and hoped his breath wasn’t too bad.

“Morning,” Adam said softly.

“Morning.” Tommy didn't exactly know what to say but it didn't seem to matter because Adam breached the small distance between them to lay a soft, lingering kiss to his forehead. Tommy closed his eyes and pressed closer to Adam's body. He let his hands move, stroking over Adam's chest and down his hip. He loved Adam's body - a sensual mix of hard lines, muscle, and curvy softness. He felt Adam sigh contentedly, relaxed and loose, breathing slow and steady until they dozed again, lazily entangled and strangely content to stay that way.

But as the sun rose higher, Tommy began to feel restless. "I think...I should..." he whispered, not really wanting to leave the languid haven of Adam's arms.

But Adam just shook his head. "Stay. Get a shower here and we'll stop by your place for clothes on the way," he said quietly, his thumb soothingly tracing the veins on Tommy's hand. There just seemed to be no reason not to shake his head and agree. So Tommy sank back down into Adam’s embrace for just a little bit longer.

Tommy stirred sometime later to the warm sensation of Adam’s hand on his hip. “I guess we should go,” Adam grumbled, rubbing his lips across Tommy’s forehead.

“All right,” Tommy sighed but then he grinned and rubbed his eyes. “I’m actually excited, you know? First meeting and shit.”

Adam nodded and grinned back. “I know, right? It’s so crazy. I’m excited too. But I’ve just been so…I don’t know how to explain it. I’ve felt really… off. And this…” Adam smiled, gesturing to them. “This is just, really nice. I feel like a real boy. Does that sound crazy?”

Tommy shivered, feeling that wobbly sense of déjà vu that he couldn’t quite grasp before it was gone. “It should I guess. But it doesn’t,” he said softly, seeing recognition in Adam’s eyes. He knew that Adam felt it too - the strange pull that seemed to connect them.

Adam kissed his forehead again and squeezed his hip, a mischievous smile curling his lips. “Let’s go,” he whispered. Adam’s eyes sparkled; he looked so happy. But as Tommy watched him crawl from their warm cocoon, he couldn’t help the strange feeling that kept creeping up his spine.

Maybe it was fear. Maybe he was afraid that Adam would change his mind, find another bassist. Or maybe he was just afraid that he would fail, that all the dreaming and wishing and the work he’d done over the years was for nothing. But Tommy shook his head; he didn’t think so.

“Come on, Ratliff,” Adam called from the kitchen. “I know you’re a bad ass musician. But the reality of rock n roll is, meetings start way too fucking early.” Adam laughed, cracking himself up.

And just like that, Tommy relaxed. With a groan he rolled off of the couch and followed Adam upstairs, accepting the mound of soft fluffy towel Adam shoved into his arms. Alone in the bathroom, Tommy rubbed the soft towels and smelled them. He smiled, breathing in Adam’s scent and thinking that so far, the reality of being a rock star wasn’t so bad.

~~~~~~~~~~

Clean and smelling of Adam's soap, Tommy padded downstairs. "What smells so good?" he asked.

"Espresso," Adam grinned, handing Tommy a steaming cup of coffee in a to-go cup. When Tommy raised an eyebrow, Adam laughed. I got a bunch of these cause I never seen to have time to sit and drink it at home."

Tommy sipped at the coffee and groaned. "Oh my God, this is amazing." Tommy sipped again. “It’s perfect.”

"You said you liked it strong," Adam said, smiling. "Shit, come on, we’re gonna be late.”

They drove separately; Adam had a long day and Tommy was going home to practice after the meeting. But they walked into the studio together, laughing and talking like old friends.

Monte was already there and seated at the conference table. He was flipping through his binder as they walked in. “Hello,” he greeted them, with a smile but Adam didn’t miss the knowing eyebrow raise as he turned back to his binder. "Adam, Lane came in looking for you," he said.

"Oh that's right," Adam said, remembering that she'd texted while he'd been driving in. "I'll be back."

He left the conference room and went down the hall, finding Lane in her office.

"Hey, what's up?" he asked, walking in the open door with a smile.

"Hey, sit down a sec, let me finish this email," Lane said, her fingers flying on the keyboard for a moment before she turned and paused when she met Adam’s gaze.

"Did you get laid?" she asked, squinting at Adam.

He opened mouth to argue but she interrupted him. "You totally got laid! It's about time; you've been all weird since breaking it off with Drake. So, who is he?"

Adam laughed and shook his head. He loved Lane. She had less of a filter than he did sometimes.

"No, I didn't get laid," he said, blushing. "But I did spend the night with someone."

"Here, sign these and spill it," Lane said, sliding a stack of pictures over to Adam.

He laughed and grabbed a sharpie, signing as he explained. "Well, there isn't much to say...yet. I met someone and we just..." Adam waved his hand, searching for the words. "We clicked."

Lane frowned, clicking her pen. "Wait, didn't you have your band gathering last night?"

Adam's blush deepened and he bit his lip, nodding, "Yeah."

She stared at him for what felt like forever, her eyebrow raised. "Tommy," she said. It wasn't a question. "You're fucking Tommy. Adam, are you trying to give me an ulcer?"

Adam rolled his eyes. "I'm not fucking Tommy."

"Yet."

Adam sighed. "Yet. But I'm a big boy, I can handle this. Besides, you just...I can't...Lane, he just," Adam sighed heavily. "There’s something there. A connection I can’t explain. Last night we just...slept. This morning we just laid together. We didn’t even really talk. It was like…we didn’t need to."

”It's alright, honey, listen. Just be careful, okay? As long as he keeps putting that look on your face, I'm behind it. Please just be careful."

Adam nodded and got up to hug her. "I will. I'm just getting to know him right now. I don't want to rush anything. But I feel like, it would be a huge mistake not to see where this goes."

Lane hugged him, rubbing his back. "I just want to see you happy, Adam. Now come on, introduce me to your new band and let’s get started. There’s a shit ton of paperwork.”

~~~~~~~~~~

“Thanks, guys. I have to head out. But I’ll see you all tomorrow for rehearsal,” Adam grinned, catching Tommy’s gaze for a moment before disappearing through the door with Lane on his heels. Tommy watched him go, a little reluctant not to follow. But he turned to the rest of the band and suggested they stop for lunch before heading home to practice. To his surprise, they agreed.

Lisa insisted that they try the little diner down the street and Tommy was glad they’d listened to her as groaned when he bit into the burger he’d ordered. “This is fucking awesome,” he said.

They talked through lunch, discussing their influences and musical preferences. He was impressed to hear that Monte had toured with Madonna and had actually taught her to play the guitar. Longineu had played with Yellowcard and Lisa with The Smashing Pumpkins. When Longineu asked what bands he’d been in, Tommy shrugged and looked down at his plate, suddenly interested in getting as much ketchup on his French fry as possible. “Just, you know, a bunch of local stuff…”

But Monte spoke up right away. “He’s been in the local scene for awhile now, a couple bands, looking to break in,” Monte said, pushing Tommy’s shoulder affectionately. “He just needed to put himself out there to get noticed.”

“I know it can be hard. That’s great, though, your big break,” Longineu said, raising his water glass to Tommy.

“That’s awesome, Tommy. From what Monte and Adam said, you’re very talented. I can’t wait to hear you play.”

The conversation moved on but Tommy threw a thankful glance at Monte, who acknowledged it with a small nod before asking Lisa about her time with the Pumpkins. Tommy was so caught up in conversation that he was surprised and disappointed when Monte glanced at his watch and said, “Well, ya’ll it’s time we all go and get to practicing. Adam will want to hear more than cat scratches tomorrow, I expect.”

They paid their bill and went their separate ways with waves and shouts in the parking lot. When Tommy slid behind the wheel of his beat up Camaro, he checked his messages and smiled when he saw that Adam had texted him.

Adam:
Sorry I had to run. But…can I stop by later? It might be late.

Tommy grinned down at his phone for a ridiculously long time, his stomach doing somersaults as he debated what to say.

You:
It’s ok. You’re a busy man. Yeah, I’ll be home practicing but…it’s not my place so maybe I can meet you at yours?

He put his car into gear and headed home, turning up the music to drown out the clunking sound his car had started making that morning. He felt giddy. Like anything could happen. He was living his dream and getting close to the most amazing and spectacularly talented man he’d ever met. There was something about Adam, an innate light or…energy that Tommy could almost feel. He knew it sounded crazy but he just couldn’t describe it any other way.

But there was something else there. He was happy but when he examined things too closely, something felt off, something felt wrong. He couldn’t possibly figure out what it could be. Well, besides his parents and the fight they’d had.

What did we fight about again?

Tommy frowned but his phone vibrated again, erasing all of the shadows in his mind. At a red light, he picked it up and grinned like an idiot as he read it.

Adam:
Good. I hear the boss is a slave driver ;) Yeah, that would be cool.

Quickly, he tapped out a message before the light turned green, texting back and forth as Tommy wound his way to Mia’s house.

You:
:) That’s what I hear too. Monte had some horror stories for us at lunch.

Adam:
Awww, you guys went to lunch without me? :(

You:
You’re the star…we’re just the back up. We get to have fun while you do all the work.

Adam:
Something about that seems wrong.

You:
Maybe you should hire some people.

Adam:
I thought I did. ;)

You:
Haha

Adam:
So…tonight… I thought I could get some take out and you could play for me? Show me what you learned?

Tommy smiled, a fire lighting in his belly at Adam’s words - play for me. He would love to play for Adam.

You:
I’d love to play for you. And yeah…dinner sounds good.

Adam:
Ok…should I text you when I’m on my way home?

You:
Yeah

Adam:
K…tonight then.

You:
Tonight. ;)

Tommy sat in his car at the curb in front of Mia’s, staring at the conversation he’d just had with Adam. Beaming, he bounded out of the car and into the house, throwing off his shoes and the nice shirt he’d put on for the meeting. He rifled through his bag to find a t-shirt and yelled for Mia.

“What the fuck happened in here?” Mia asked, walking into the living room. “Tornado Tommy?”

“Sorry. I’m just excited,” Tommy muttered, grabbing his things and stowing them away.

“So excited you didn’t come home last night?” Mia asked, raising an eye brow and curling up on the couch. “Did you meet someone?

Tommy couldn’t hide his smirk as he settled beside Mia. She punched his arm and exclaimed, “You did meet someone! Wait, didn’t you have your band thingie last night? Did you go out afterwards?”

“I slept with Adam last night,” he blurted out, blushing when he realized what he’d said. “I mean…not slept with slept with. Not yet…but I’d like to…but he’s my boss, you know…so we’re just sort of feeling this out. But Mia there’s just…something there. It’s like; I don’t know…I can’t explain it.” He knew he was babbling but he just couldn’t figure out what Mia was thinking. Her expression was guarded and confused.

“So…you have feelings for Adam?” she asked slowly

Tommy nodded. “I know it’s too fast and probably stupid but yeah.”

“Oh honey!” Mia cried, grabbing his hands. “I’m so happy you’re finally comfortable enough to talk about it!’ She pulled him into a crushing hug and Tommy tried to pull away, unable to breathe.

“What are you talking about? I just met him,” he said.

“No I mean you…your…you know, preference for dick. I was beginning to think you’d be in the closet forever!”

Tommy scowled, confused. His head was spinning and his stomach rolled again. “Closet?”

Outside a car horn beeped twice and Mia rolled her eyes. “Of course she comes early. TJ, I have to go. But I love you and we will talk about this later, okay?” Mia kissed him on the mouth and hugged him. “I’ll be home late. So we’ll talk tomorrow okay?”

Numb, Tommy nodded and watched her walk through the door.

“What the fuck?” he asked the dogs that were sitting like a rapt little audience at his feet. He thought everyone knew he was bi. He’d been with boys and girls, although he’d always had a preference for men. In fact, he could only really remember a handful of the women with clarity.

Not that he’d had a whole lot of relationships. The closest thing to that had been his childhood friend Jon. They’d grown up together, came of age together. They’d tried. But in the end, they’d been more like brothers than anything else.

Tommy shook his head, clearing out the cobwebs. He’d deal with Mia later. But he had work to do. He didn’t want to suck in front of everyone. Logging on to Mia’s computer, Tommy downloaded Adam’s CD to his iPod. They’d been told to focus on For Your Entertainment but Tommy couldn’t help but skip around, listening to all of the tracks. He liked them all, some more than others. But the whole album was amazing.

When he was done listening to the album, Tommy opened up his music and got to work. He listened to For Your Entertainment again and felt his way through it, comparing his instinct to the notes on the page until he was all wrapped up in the rhythm of the song.

When his cell phone went off, Tommy looked up and realized that night had fallen. He grabbed for his phone, which had fallen to the floor, and answered it.

“Hey,” Adam said. “You still awake? I texted.”

“Yeah, I…Oh shit, I didn’t even realize it was that late. I was focused on the music.”

He smiled when Adam laughed. “Dedicated. I like that. So, are you still interested in dinner?”

Tommy’s stomach rumbled. “Yeah, I am,” he said softly, thinking he was also interested in seeing Adam.

He could hear the smile in Adam’s voice when he responded. “Great, meet me at the house then. I should be like ten minutes.”

Tommy agreed and hung up the phone. He carefully put away his bass and made a mad dash for the bathroom. Quickly, he brushed his teeth and washed his face, pausing to smudge a little liner around his eyes. Tommy looked in the mirror, pouting his lips and canting his head from one side to the other before deciding he looked okay.

~~~~~~~~~~

Adam’s house was lit up, warm and welcoming. Tommy put down his guitar and bass cases so that he could ring the door bell. Adam answered with a smile, grabbing a case and helping him in.

“Oh my God, Del Taco!” Tommy said with a grin once they’d stowed his things in the living room. He could smell the spicy aroma as they entered the kitchen.

Adam smiled and grabbed some plates. “It’s so fattening but I know you love it,” he said and reached into the refrigerator. “Beer?”

Tommy nodded; but he couldn’t remember ever telling that to Adam. Del Taco was his favorite. Maybe he’d mentioned it passing. Then he remembered the coffee that morning and frowned.

I don’t remember talking about coffee or Del Taco.

“I’m starving,” Adam said, grabbing a quesadilla. “I never thought the day would end.” He sat down and opened a water, drinking down half in one gulp.

Tommy filled his plate with an assortment of the things Adam had bought and sat down across from Adam at the kitchen table. “I’d gotten so caught up in learning your song, I didn’t realize it was so late,” he said.

“That’s good though. Did you get a chance to listen to the CD?” Adam asked, looking down at his plate, a little shy.

“I did,” Tommy said, smiling. “And I loved it! I love your sound…your voice…it’s just, something else, man. We haven’t had a talent like yours since like…Freddie. You can just wail and then come down and have complete control.”

Adam blushed and smiled at him as though no one had ever complemented him before; like Tommy’s opinion actually mattered. “Thanks, I’m really proud of it.”

“You really should be.”

They enjoyed their food and talked. Adam knew a lot about music and had good, eclectic taste. Tommy enjoyed hearing his perspective on some of the newer artists and the music industry.

Adam wrinkled his nose when Tommy mentioned Marilyn Manson. “Not really my cup of tea but I can see the appeal. His lyrics are deep and raw.”

“I know! Manson has seen me through some hard times, that’s for sure. He just digs down into the darker places. Sometimes I like that as much as I like your light.”

Adam smiled and looked down at his empty plate. Tommy looked at his own plate and realized that they’d been talking for some time. Tommy yawned and stretched, his hands cramping as he made fists in the air. He grimaced and cracked his fingers.

“You okay?” Adam asked as he stood to clear the table.

“Yeah, just my fingers cramping. It happens sometimes if I play all day like that.

Adam frowned with concern and sat down in front of Tommy. “Give me your hand,” he said softly.

Tommy did as he asked and with a gentle caress, Adam stroked down his palm, slowly uncurling his stiff fingers. His touch was tender at first, but then with firm pressure, Adam massaged Tommy’s left hand, first the palm, rubbing hard into the meaty flesh of his palms, and then each digit, pulling and twisting in all the right ways. Adam’s hands were warm and soft and Tommy closed his eyes, unable to keep from moaning low in his throat when Adam moved on to the right hand which always seemed to be worse.

“Why don’t we give your hands a rest tonight then?” Adam whispered as though he didn’t want to break the spell he’d woven around them. “I’d hate to have you overdo it.”

Tommy opened his eyes and looked into Adam’s. He saw concern there, but under it was desire. Adam’s thumb stroked gentle circles over his wrist and Tommy looked down, mesmerized.

“All right,” he said, nervous that Adam would send him home to get rest.

“Are you up for a movie?” Adam asked instead, not relinquishing Tommy’s hand.

Tommy smiled, strangely relieved. “Yeah. Yeah that sounds good. Except this time I get to choose.”

Adam squeezed his hand and let go slowly, almost reluctantly. “Okay. You choose.” He eyed Tommy’s tattoos and grimaced. “But if you pick one of those, expect to have me crawling in your lap during the scary parts.”

Tommy laughed and shook his head, imagining that. “That’s all right,” he said quietly, the words coming out much more seriously that he’d meant them to. “I’ll keep you safe.”

The look that passed over Adam’s face was strange, like he was remembering something. But then he smiled again and led the way into the living room. Deciding to leave the horror movies for another night, Tommy perused Adam's DVD collection and smiled at the titles that together told a story about their owner. "Labyrinth?" Tommy pulled out the well worn copy and showed it to Adam. He hadn't seen that movie in a long time.

Adam grinned and hopped to his feet. "David Bowie in tights." He wiggled his eyebrows at Tommy as he put in the DVD. Tommy just laughed and curled into his comfortable spot on the couch, leaning into Adam when he sat beside him.

Tommy liked the movie but he couldn't concentrate; he couldn't tear his eyes away from Adam. Judging from the state of the DVD, Adam had to have seen the movie a hundred times. But he still laughed like a child, full and throaty, his whole face lighting up at the little worm trying to help Sara. But Tommy watched Adam; he really couldn’t look away.

Adam caught him and the childlike expression was replaced with something darker, a heated look that Tommy could almost feel against his skin. He held his breath, wanting so badly to taste Adam's lips. Tommy could feel it all around them, almost like a whirling and welcoming press of energy, drawing them together. He didn’t want to fight it.

~~~~~~~~~~

Tommy's eyes were soft and he licked his lips, made them all wet and shiny. Adam wanted to kiss him, wanted so badly to taste his mouth, suck on those sweet, pouty lips. He touched Tommy's hair, letting his fingers drag along his scalp and down his neck

"Need a beer?" he asked, smiling fondly at the way Tommy leaned into his touch.

Tommy nodded and smiled back, turning back to the movie as Adam escaped to the kitchen.

"I'm trying, Monte," he muttered when Monte's warning sounded unbidden in his mind. "I'm trying so hard to do this right and not fuck up."

He wanted to move slow, get to know Tommy. It felt strange to say that because it felt as though he already did. But in reality - they'd just met.

Adam sighed, took a breath and returned to the living room, only to suppress a groan. Tommy was sprawled out on the couch, laying back with one leg up and bent to the side, the other resting on the floor. His t-shirt had ridden up to reveal jeans that were sitting dangerously low. From where Adam stood he could see the jut of Tommy's hip bones and the soft trail of hair that disappeared enticingly under the waist of his jeans. With a deep breath, Adam continued into the room. Tommy took his beer with a smile and moved his leg, making room on the couch where Adam settled in, unable to resist pulling Tommy's foot into his lap.

When the credits started to roll, Tommy stretched and groaned. Adam tried not to stare. He tried not to see the way his stomach muscles clenched or the way his eyes scrunched closed. Adam looked at the television ad tapped his foot along to the music. But he could see Tommy from the corner of his eye.

"I guess I should go home and get some sleep. It's gonna be a long day tomorrow," Tommy said, standing up and heading for the kitchen with his empty beer bottles.

Adam nodded. It was the first band practice.

"You’ll be there?" Tommy asked hesitantly, coming back into the living room. He stood in front of Adam, looking for all the world like something out of a fairytale. His hair was messy and wild, his cheeks flushed, lips pink and pouty. Adam couldn’t see the tips of his ears but it wouldn’t have surprised him all to find them pointy. He suppressed a smile but something tugged at his mind, something he felt was important.

“You okay?” Tommy asked, his hand on Adam’s shoulder, concern in his eyes.

“Yeah. Sorry,” Adam frowned and stood up. “I'm going to be there later. I'd like you guys to get some time together first. But I'd like to be there for a little of your first rehearsal." Adam stood up and watched as Tommy collected his things, pushing away the sick feeling in his stomach. "Here, let me take that," he said, "I'll help you out to your car."

Tommy handed him one of his guitar cases and they shuffled outside. He wanted to turn around and drag Tommy back inside, throw him over his shoulder and carry him up to his room. But he loaded Tommy's car instead and stood in the pale beam of the security light, unable to find the words to ask Tommy to stay again, yet not willing to say good bye.

Tommy turned around and leaned against his car, so close. But Adam couldn’t stop himself from stepping closer.

‘I had fun,” Tommy said softly, his voice hushed in the quiet of the night.

“Me too.” Adam felt giddy, like a teenager so hungry for his first kiss but afraid to make a move.

“So…I’ll see you tomorrow?” Tommy’s eyes were shining, his cheeks flushed and Adam couldn’t help himself.

He nodded and leaned forward, pressing a soft kiss to the corner of Tommy’s mouth. “I’ll see you tomorrow,” Adam said.

Tommy smiled a silly, little boy smile and Adam felt his heart skip a beat. He watched him drive away; still standing there long after Tommy’s taillights had faded into the distance.

~~~~~~~~~~

They had practiced all morning, going over the song again and again. He was playing it on bass guitar and also on keys, trying to work out which sounded best live. Tired and starting to get punchy, they broke for lunch, ordering pizza and vegging out until he heard Monte messing around.

He couldn’t help but grin as the first rifs of Pantera’s “Mouth for War” rang through the rehearsal hall.

“Oh fuck yeah!” he said, grinning at Longineu. They got to their feet and joined Monte, filling out the song and getting lost in the driving rhythm. Monte let loose and Tommy closed his eyes, feeling the music flow through his body. They weren’t perfect; it was the first time they’d ever played together. But Tommy could feel their energy. He could feel their passion and he felt as though he belonged.

As the song drove on through to the end, Tommy became aware of someone else in the room, and knew instantly it was Adam. He didn’t have to open his eyes to know that Adam was grinning, his stomach tight with excitement as he watched his hand picked band members rocking out. He didn’t know how he knew - he just did.

The song ended abruptly and they shouted together, “Fuck yeah!” and “All right!” as they high fived and grinned stupidly at each other.

“You guys sounded so fucking awesome!” Adam said, coming closer to stand between Monte and Tommy.

“Yeah, just wait till we have time to practice,” Monte said, putting aside his guitar to grab his water.

Tommy took a gulp of his own, almost choking when Adam came up behind him. “I love to watch you play,” he whispered softly, breath a soft caress on Tommy’s ear. “You play so passionately.”

Tommy looked into Adam’s eyes. They were close enough that Tommy could smell him, leather and the faint, spicy scent of his cologne. He smiled and Adam squeezed his arm before turning to everyone.

“So, let’s hear what you guys have got.”

And just like that, Adam was all business, leading them through “For Your Entertainment”, a few times on their own, listening and nodding along with the beat. On the third go round, he joined them, voice flawless, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

After a couple of passes, they started digging into the song, identifying parts that needed work and changes that Adam wanted to make. Tommy took notes so that he could practice later.

Adam seemed pleased with their progress and they made plans to reconvene the following afternoon. “Rehearsals for the AMAs start Tuesday and the video shoot is Wednesday. So I’ll need you back here tomorrow. We’ll get your preliminary fittings done and get in some more rehearsal time.”

Tommy stood by, watching Adam go over his schedule. He made notes in his phone so he’d be sure to be where he was needed. But then Adam said something that made his heart pound. He looked up, panicking suddenly. But he couldn’t figure out why.

“Sunday you’re off. Monday we booked you time to practice together but I’ll be out of town. I’m leaving Sunday evening for New York.”

“Why?” Tommy blurted out, louder than he’d intended. He felt his cheeks warm as he tried to relax. “I mean, you know…how come?”

“Interview and photo shoot,” Adam smiled but Tommy saw the question in his eyes.

“Oh…cool,” Tommy nodded, looking back down at his cell phone, trying desperately to sound and look normal. But his stomach was in knots and his heart was racing and felt like any minute he’d be running for the bathroom.

But then Adam was there, his warm, solid body pressed close to his back, a calming hand on the back of his neck. Tommy tried not to wilt into his touch because they were all there, the band, the tech guys and Lane. Adam squeezed a little, reassuring, but continued to address the room.

“Also, I was hoping that you guys would join me tonight for a little celebrating. I’ve invited a few friends to this little out of the way club I know,” he said. And although Tommy couldn’t see his face, he could hear the cheerful smile in Adam’s voice. “And I’d love it if you guys were there too.”

“That sounds great,” Longineu spoke up and he was echoed by mostly everyone.

“Great,” Adam said. “Bring your significant others, they have a VIP room so we can hope for a little privacy.”

Everyone seemed excited as they made plans to meet up later. Tommy had been to the club before. It was known for its good music, discretion and privacy for celebrities.

“Hey are you okay? You looked like you were going to pass out.” Adam said softly, pulling Tommy away from the small crowd of people.

“I’m okay. I just got a little nauseous,” Tommy said, waving away Adam’s concern.

Adam frowned and pushed the hair from Tommy’s eyes. “Are you sure?”

“Yeah,” he said, confused about his reaction but with Adam there, so close and warm, Tommy felt better. “Yeah, I’m fine. I think I must have had something weird to eat earlier.”

The concern on Adam’s face shifted as he became satisfied with Tommy’s answer. He smiled and nodded - a mischievous light dawning in his eyes. “So…what about you, Tommy Joe?” Adam whispered close to his ear. “You gonna come out and play tonight?”

Tommy shivered and leaned closer to Adam’s body. “I’ve never known to turn down a night out,” he said with a chuckle.

“Do you want me to pick you up?” Adam asked, a little hesitant. “We could go together.”

“Yeah, that sounds great,” Tommy agreed, trying to keep his excitement from showing on his face. “Um…what time?”

“How’s 8:30?” Adam asked, reaching for Tommy’s hand. “How do you feel by the way?” he asked, thumb rubbing into Tommy’s palm.

“Better,” he said, voice catching. Adam made him feel so cared for. “And yeah, 8:30 is good. I just gotta grab a shower.”

“Great. I’ll see you then,” Adam said, squeezing his hand and letting it slowly slide from his grasp. Tommy watched him go, his smile slipping, and the knots in his stomach coiling up as the door closed behind him.

“Tommy honey, are you okay?” Lisa asked, her hand on his shoulder. “You’re as pale as a ghost.”

“Yeah, I’m fine. I just…I need to go. I’ll see you guys later okay?” He put away his things and headed for his car, praying he didn’t throw up on the way home.

~~~~~~~~~~

The music was loud. Adam could feel it in his chest. The beat was inside him, making his hips move as he stood at the bar, waiting for the drinks he’d ordered. He maneuvered through the crowd, feeling the eyes, the stares. He knew that people were watching and that was okay. They’d been respectful - mostly.

He laughed as he approached the table to find that Monte and his wife Lisa had finally shown up. “Hey, Mamma!” he greeted her with a hug and touched her belly. She was already starting to show. Adam found a seat on the vinyl couch beside Tommy who was looking considerably more relaxed than he had at rehearsal.

His cheeks were pink and he was talking to Longineu and his fiancée Joan, animated and happy. Adam handed Tommy a beer and squeezed his shoulder when he turned with a smile to thank him. Their gazes lingered a moment before Adam turned back to catch up with Lisa.

They floated like that, orbiting each other, as they mingled, touching when they happened to be in the same space or conversation. It seemed natural and for once, Adam didn’t have the feeling that he had to baby-sit his date or be concerned whether he was having a good time. Tommy seemed at home and happy with everyone to whom Adam introduced him.

Adam smiled when he saw his best friend Danielle drag Tommy out on the floor to dance. He watched, amused as Tommy tried to escape. But there isn't much you can do to change Danielle's mind once it's made up.

So Tommy went reluctantly, joining a group on the floor. Adam expected him to move a little bit; Tommy had rhythm, there was no denying that. But Adam was surprised when Tommy finally let go, swiveling his hips and raising his arms in the air. There was something primitive and wild about the way he moved, throwing his head around, eyes closed, lips parted just slightly. For an instant Adam imagined Tommy as a nymph, dancing merrily in the woods.

He chuckled to himself and shook his head. But then Tommy looked up and caught his gaze, holding him spellbound as the writhing crowd and thumping music faded into the background. Before he knew it, Adam was moving through the throng as though pulled by an unseen thread. He pressed himself to Tommy’s back and moved with him, following the erotic and mysterious rhythm of his hips.

Adam closed his eyes, his trepidation giving way to desire and the irresistible need to be close to Tommy. They danced and Adam let go; gave himself over to the music and the sweet sway of Tommy’s body.

“I need a drink,” Tommy said in his ear sometime later, pulling him back into reality.

Adam opened his eyes and focused on Tommy's flushed and smiling face. He smiled back and reached for his hand, holding tight as they wound their way to the bar.

Tommy blew a puff of air up into his unruly hair and Adam laughed, pushing it back and away from his face.

"Hot?” he asked. They were pressed close, waiting their turn at the bar.

Tommy nodded. "Yeah, but it felt good, you know? To let go a little."

“I know,” Adam agreed, the backs of his fingers trailing gently across Tommy’s cheek. "It felt real good." Adam was close enough to feel Tommy's breath hitch and he pressed closer, looking into his eyes.

"What'll it be?” the bartender yelled above the music and it was a moment before Adam could turn away to place their orders.

“Hey you two, where have you been?” Lisa came up behind them, a very large frozen margarita in her hand.

“Dancing,” Adam smiled and watched as Tommy scooted up on an abandoned bar stool. “That looks good,” he said, pointing at her drink.

She grinned. “It is, I’ve probably had too many but they’re so good.”

Their drinks arrived and Tommy groaned appreciatively as he gulped his beer. Sighing, he closed his eyes and put the frosty bottle against his forehead. “Man it’s hot in here.”

Adam had to agree. “Hey, sit tight a minute. Let me hit the restroom and we’ll go up on the roof to get some air. They have a little tiki bar up there.”

Tommy’s eyes lit up. “Yeah, some air sounds good.”

Adam left him talking to Lisa while he meandered through the crowd. The restroom was bright and clean, and the music was muffled when he closed the door. Adam breathed a sigh and closed his eyes as he leaned one hand against the wall, for the moment, he was blissfully alone.

Adam cleaned up, washing his hands and taking a moment to fix his smudged liner. He couldn’t stop thinking about the look on Tommy’s face, the way he’d licked his lips right before the bar tender had interrupted them. He’d looked like he wanted to be kissed just as much as Adam wanted to kiss him.

Is it really that easy?

Adam nodded his head and realized that yeah, it was. He was tired of holding back, tired of taking it slow. He wanted to kiss Tommy, to flirt with and seduce him. He’d felt it from the moment he’d heard Tommy speak, a spark that lit him on fire with need, a connection that warmed his heart.

And there’s just no use hiding it anymore.

With giddy excitement spreading through his veins, Adam wound his way through the bar. He saw Lisa in the corner talking to Monte and frowned, wondering where Tommy had gone. His eyes skimmed the bar and around the room but of Tommy there was no sign.

Adam clenched his jaw and headed towards Lisa, wondering if she knew where he'd gone. But as he walked past the VIP entrance, he caught sight of Tommy's hair, starkly illuminated in the strobe lights.

Tommy was standing outside the entrance in a group of people and the first thing Adam noticed was that one of Tommy's friends was looking right at Adam, his face serious and worried.

Adam met his gaze and for a moment he thought he knew him. Exotic and dark with beautifully luscious lips, the boy looked familiar. But in the next second, Adam's eyes slid to the right and all at once, Adam couldn't breathe.

She was small and curvy, sweetly proportioned. Her hair was brown, full and came to just below her shoulders. Adam watched in horror as she turned her dark and flirty eyes up at Tommy and embraced him, long fingernails digging into the short hair at Tommy's neck as she leaned forward to kiss him.

Adam gasped a breath and turned away, suddenly sick and desperate to leave.

He stalked across the room, not bothering to say goodbye, not giving a shit.

How could I have been that wrong? Straight? A fucking straight boy?

He passed Tommy as he barreled through the group of people. He saw Tommy turn to him, eyebrows raised, the little skank's tongue still in his mouth. But Adam just nodded sadly and kept walking, praying he made it to the car before the tears came. Let Tommy find his own ride home.

~~~~~~~~~~

"Tommy!" someone called his name.

Tommy looked up to see his friend Jon waving at him through velvet ropes and big, scary bouncers at the VIP entrance.

Lisa followed his gaze. "Friend of yours?" she asked.

Tommy smiled, wondering how long it had been since he'd seen Jon.

"Yeah, hey, could you let Adam know that I'll be right back?" He asked, waving at Jon.

Lisa agreed and Tommy slipped past the bouncers with a nod, strangely thrilled to be able to do that. To be able to come and go from the VIP room of clubs of which he’d once just been lucky to get in the door.

”Hey!” Tommy hugged Jon, smiling at the familiar feel and smell of him. Tommy was overwhelmed for a moment, his stomach flipping as Jon held him tighter.

"How are you?" Jon asked, his tone strangely serious.

"I'm good man, how are you?" Tommy asked and pulled back.

Jon looked in his eyes for a moment before he grinned and shook his head. "It's been, interesting lately. Hey, congrats on the gig, man. I'm proud of you."

Tommy's chest swelled with pride. "I'm so stoked. The band is great. And Adam..." Tommy felt his chest tighten but someone came up beside them.

“Tommy? That is you. Jon said he thought he’d seen you.”

Tommy’s grin slipped and he looked at Delmy. She’d been one of the few girls with which Tommy had considered having a relationship. She was pretty and sweet. But they’d fought a lot and in the end, had decided to be friends. But she was smiling sweetly and slithered up next to him, pressing her breasts against his chest as she hugged him hello.

“I heard about your new gig. Congratulations!” she said, letting her hand linger on his back. “I always knew you’d go places, Tommy Joe.”

He smiled at her and nodded, backing up just a little. “Thanks, Delmy. I’m excited. Adam is amazing.” He felt that silly thrill in his stomach whenever he talked about Adam - proud, excited and in awe. Adam invigorated him.

“Well, listen honey, I have to go. But, hey…” Delmy smiled, her eyes dark and flirty. “Call me, okay? We should get together.” Before Tommy could think, she was kissing him, quick and dirty, her tongue pushing between his lips.

And then Tommy felt it, Adam. It was like a blast of hurt and pain as Adam walked past him. Eyes wet, mouth set and angry. He turned away and headed for the door, a bouncer five steps behind, automatically moving with Adam to make sure he was safe.

Overcome with the desolate look in Adam’s eyes, Tommy pushed Delmy away. “What the fuck?” he barked at her and ran after Adam - not bothering to say goodbye to Jon.

His mind was buzzing, unsure and afraid that Adam wouldn’t listen, wouldn’t understand or believe him.

“Adam!” he called out, just as Adam slipped through the door. “Fuck.” Tommy ran, pushing past people, swearing as a camera phone went off in his face. He burst through the front door, scanning for Adam. He caught a glimpse of him stalking across the parking lot toward his car.

“Jesus…fuck he walks fast,” Tommy murmured, running to catch up. “Adam! Stop!”

Tommy heaved a breath as Adam wheeled around, his face torn up with hurt. “What?” he yelled.

“That is so not what it fucking looked like!” Tommy said, coming to a halt in front of Adam.

“Yeah? Cause what it looked like was you kissing some chick.” Adam ran his hands through his hair, fingers catching on the product that held it in shape. “Jesus, Tommy, I thought…fuck, never mind what I thought. I was wrong. And I’m sorry. You shouldn’t have to apologize for my misunderstanding. You’re just a friendly, affectionate, fucking hot straight boy. Man I must be a magnet for um….and I…”

Tommy was shaking his head as Adam talked, waiting for him to shut up. But he just kept talking until finally, Tommy could no longer take it. He stepped forward and pressed his lips to Adam’s, forceful and insistent. Adam fought him for a moment but Tommy was unrelenting. He grabbed Adam’s hips and pressed him back against the car, grinding forward so Adam could feel his cock, already hardening in his pants.

Adam pulled back and heaved a breath, eyes searching Tommy’s for a moment. Tommy moved his hips, grinding against Adam, showing him, making him feel.

With a strangled groan, Adam grabbed him, large hands on Tommy’s ass, pulling him hard against him, sucking Tommy’s lips open until they were breathless and needy. But then Adam shook his head and reluctantly pulled away. “But what about…”

Tommy sighed and leaned his forehead against Adam’s. “An ex…thing…that was kissing me. I was getting ready to tell my friend Jon all about you…how awesome you were…how talented and sweet and….fuck, I wanted to tell him everything. About this…connection we seem to have,” he looked up into Adam’s eyes and saw wonder. And he knew that Adam knew exactly what he was talking about.

“And then she came up and was all slithering hips and flirty because she sees an opportunity. All she sees is dollar signs,” Tommy said. “That’s all she ever wanted.”

Adam started to speak again but Tommy stopped him. “I’m bi, Adam. I always have been. So don’t go pulling the let’s coddle and push away the boy who thinks he’s gonna play gay. I’ve been with guys and girls. I just…prefer guys most of the time. And fuck, Adam…I think I’ve fallen for you…hard. And I don’t want to take it slow. I don’t want to step around a mine field and make things more complicated than they have to be. I just want to be with you.”

Adam was quiet. Tommy could see him absorbing everything that Tommy had said. He waited patiently, his stomach rolling in anticipation. But it was weird; as Adam’s face softened, Tommy could feel a calm descend around them like a warm blanket. It was comforting and he could see in Adam’s eyes that he felt it too.

“I feel closer to you than I’ve ever felt to anyone,” Adam said softly. “And I felt that from the moment we met.”

Tommy nodded. “Me too.”

Adam touched his face, a tender caress that made Tommy close his eyes and lean into his touch. “God, you’re so beautiful,” Adam whispered and leaned down to press a kiss to Tommy’s temple. “Inside and out. I can just feel it.”

“Take me home, Adam,” Tommy whispered, meaning that. He felt at home in Adam’s house - more than anywhere. He shivered and Adam held him closer.

“Let me call someone,” Adam said. “So they know we’re okay. And then, yeah…I’d like that.” Adam’s smile was warm and Tommy could just feel the happiness coming off of him in waves. He snuggled closer to Adam’s chest, closing his eyes and feeling the rumble of his voice. Adam called Monte and Tommy smiled when he heard their conversation.

“Hey,” Monte said, right before Adam hung up.

“I know, I know…” Adam said,

“No, Man. Just…I’m happy for you.”

~~~~~~~~~~

Tommy wrapped his legs around Adam’s waist. Rocking his hips, he begged for more, crying out when Adam pushed deep. Adam’s lips were on his neck and he whispered words against his skin; words that Tommy could feel more than hear. He closed his eyes and said them back, “Want you…need you…love you.”

“Fuck me,” Tommy panted, fingers digging into the muscles of Adam’s broad back. “Give it to me, Adam…fuck me.”

Adam groaned and snapped his hips, driving deeper and harder. Teetering on the edge, Tommy looked up into Adam’s eyes and saw everything there, everything he needed to know. He rolled them so that he sat astride Adam’s hips, riding his cock, twisting and taking and giving it all back.

“I love you,” Adam rasped and took his mouth, wet and desperate, fucking up into Tommy, pulling him down hard until Tommy felt the coils in his belly let go. He came apart, calling Adam’s name, watching his beautiful face, so blissfully lost and found and sweet when he opened his eyes and smiled.

Tommy kissed him, little nibbles and sucks along his jaw until he pressed his lips to Adam’s ear. “I love you too,” he said, collapsing against Adam’s chest.

Adam’s hands moved on him, caressing up and down his back. Tommy dozed, contented and warm in Adam’s arms. Dimly he felt Adam slip from his body and grumbled until Adam was there again, strong arms around him.

He sighed and snuggled closer as Adam stroked his hair, soft and slow. Drifting off to dream, Tommy smiled into Adam’s neck.

“What, Baby?” Adam asked, pushing his long leg between Tommy’s and caressing down his side.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been happier,” Tommy said.

Adam was silent a moment, fingers rubbing Tommy’s hip. “I’ve had a happy life. Some set backs and down times. But I’ve always had people who loved me, people who I knew were there for me, no matter what,” Adam said, his breath a caress to Tommy’ cheek. “But I’ve always known, even when I was in relationships, that there was something missing.” He kissed the top of Tommy’s head, hip lips lingering. “I don’t feel that way anymore.”

~~~~~~~~~~

He was flying. He could feel the cool air on his face and the spray of the ocean on his skin. Tommy flew higher, spinning and pleasantly dizzy as he dropped toward land. He laughed, pulling up, skimming the grass with his bare toes.

But then he heard it, the voice called to him, familiar now and his. He answered, his heart full and bursting with love. Tommy found his siren singing in the garden and followed his beautiful, haunting melody. He could see him, hair like a selkie, back broad and freckled. Adam - his Adam.

~~~~~~~~~~

With a gasp, Tommy bolted up, stomach churning. Tommy ran to the bathroom, barely making it. He heaved and gasped, mind spinning.

Pixie...I’m a fucking pixie…fuck….fuck…fuck.

His memories were spinning, turning and finally coalescing into reality.

“Oh Gods,” Tommy whispered. He stood up and staggered to the sink. Adam’s face swam into the forefront of his memory. He remembered standing in the clearing before the King, held in Adam’s strong arms.

“The inquisition!” Tommy whispered, looking into the mirror, touching his face.

“Tommy?” Adam said groggily, pushing open the door.

“Yeah, yeah. I’m here. I just…didn’t feel well.” Tommy said, flushing the toilet.

When he turned to Adam, his heart twisted in his chest, remembering everything.

“Oh, Baby, are you sure you shouldn’t see a doctor? You’ve been sick a lot lately,” Adam said, concern on his face.

Tommy’s eyes filled up with tears. “Adam,” he said running into his arms.

Adam held him, rubbing his back and cooing into his ear. “It’s all right. Shh, you’ll be okay.”

Tommy pressed his face into Adam’s chest, grounding himself in Adam’s comforting embrace.

What the fuck is going on? Why did the King do this?

“Honey, come back to bed,” Adam whispered, pulling Tommy back into the bedroom. “Get some rest.”

Tommy nodded, letting Adam guide him into bed. He cuddled close, clinging to Adam, confused.

Tomorrow, he thought. I’ll go see The King. I have to find out what happened..

Tommy fell into a fitful sleep, each time awaking to find Adam’s arms around him, holding him tight.

“It’s all right, Baby,” Adam murmured and Tommy felt it then, Adam’s energy all around him, surrounding him with love and a calm, peaceful feeling. He closed his eyes and pushed back, smiling when he found that he could still do it. They fell asleep then - wrapped in each other’s love.

TBC

Notes:

This chapter took forever, I know. Thank you for being patient. One more chapter I think. =)