(no subject)
Okay, this is it for now. It seemed like an alright place to wrap things up. I have been thinking of continuing the saga with some shorter updates/chapters at significant moments in their lives but not a word of it is typed yet so there is no schedule what so ever. I will likely do a couple more over the summer though as I’ve got a couple pretty well mapped out in my mind. I’m also interested in what any readers would like to see so if you really are waiting for some particular scene (I know a few people have already mentioned a wedding). So if you won’t be able to live without reading about Austin’s first school Christmas concert let me know. I’m looking for ideas here so give it to me. If I can see it and I’ve got the time I could write it. I’m not sure I’m quite ready to let these guys go yet. But I do need a bit of a break.
Title: No Expectations - Chapter Twenty
Author: firiel77
Word Count: 6392
Warnings: WIP, Mpreg
Rating: G
Pairings: Adam/Tommy
Summary: Tommy’s just feeling a bit off. Set about five years in the future. Adam is a Rock God. Tommy plays guitar for him.
Beta: thrace_adams Whee, thanks so much for stepping in with the beta and the encouragement.
CreditThank you to chaosmanor for graciously agreeing to let me rework her wonderful story Thursday's Child in a different fandom; this fic is what inspired me to try mpreg which is saying something. I encourage everyone to read it. It can be found right here.
Disclaimer: This is fiction people.
Feedback: Sure. Let me know what’s working for you.
Authors Notes: I never thought I’d do it but this is a big old MPreg. Read if you dare. It’s also a WIP and I’m not sure where it will go yet although it will probably be fairly long and I’ve got quite a few chapters roughed out. I’ve just been seeing people pining for domestic fics and (gulp) babies so thought I’d give it a shot.
Thank you jashelle1 for the awesome banner and poster you did for my story. You’re the best.
Previous Chapters Here
It was Grammy night and Tommy didn’t think they were ever going to get out of the fucking house. Austin was being abnormally fussy even for him and they’d had to halt their preparations several times to try to sooth him. Nothing had worked and Tommy finally just handed him to Jane and asked her to take him for a walk so that they could get ready in peace.
She was just coming back down the hall as they were leaving and Adam stopped to give her a few more instructions before the elevator arrived. He held out his hands to accept a still shrieking Austin but then looked down at his suit and thought better of it. Tommy grabbed Adam by the arm, pulled him into the waiting elevator and they only had time to hear Jane assure them one more time that they’d be fine before the door closed.
The limo they’d booked was waiting on the street and the driver held the door open for them as Tommy ducked in, pulling Adam after him. He sank back into the leather seat and turned to Adam who was fussing nervously with his tie. When he noticed Tommy watching him he stopped what he was doing and smiled. Tommy reached across and took his hand, squeezing it reassuringly.
Adam smiled more easily and leaned back into the seat, letting out a long breath, visibly willing himself to relax. It took a while but Tommy had finally convinced him to do the Grammy’s but he was doing it reluctantly. The articles about his weight still stung and he was uneasy about performing in public although he had managed to lose enough to feel better about himself.
The two of them had celebrated by going out and buying suits for the occasion. Tommy was appalled at spending more than what any of his cars had cost but Adam had just laughed and told him to get used to it. The suits were Italian, cutting edge yet classy, and fit them both perfectly. Tommy had to admit it was money well spent.
They’d also gotten haircuts. Tommy’s bangs were growing back and though they weren’t nearly as long as in the past they were coming along nicely and he got the sides of his head cut short again. Adam had something new that looked damn good on him. Tommy had looked Adam over when he was ready and told him he looked fucking gorgeous. Adam had made a dismissive sound but clearly he had been pleased with the compliment; he’d been wearing a faint smile ever since.
The show’s producers had been delighted with Adam’s change of heart and he’d been given free reign over which song he performed. He’d decided to perform his first single, For Your Entertainment, the one that had been so controversial early in his career. It was a testament to how much the producers wanted him that they didn’t even blink an eye.
Adam had been proud of the song. It had annoyed him that FYE was unceremoniously pulled from promotion and died a quick death after the controversy. It had been a good song and was still a favourite at his shows. Tommy figured Adam was right; it deserved another shot. He’d laughingly told Adam no kissing though; he didn’t relish another shit storm of protest from the moral majority.
Adam was also going to participate in a tribute to Tina Turner along with Xtina, Lady Gaga, and Amy Winehouse which would close the show. He’d be performing River Deep, Mountain High during his segment and had agreed to do it on one condition; Tommy would be playing guitar alongside him. The producers had been dubious at first, as had Tommy, but Adam had held firm and as usual had gotten his way.
Tommy was honoured to be playing the classic but the guitar solo had him freaked. He’d tried talking Adam out of it but he’d been adamant; he wanted Tommy there beside him if he was going on national television looking like he did. Tommy had gone to Monte for help with the arrangement and he’d been practising nightly. He had to admit it sounded pretty badass but he was still nervous as hell. He didn’t really want to fuck it up on national TV.
They’d been to the venue that morning for sound check and they’d sounded good but while the car slid through traffic Tommy still ran over River Deep, Mountain High in his mind. His fingers twitched reflexively as he worked out the cords. Adam noticed what he was doing and took his hand.
“You nervous?”
Tommy shrugged. “Maybe a bit,” he admitted. It was a complicated piece of music.
“You’re going to be great,” Adam assured him.
“Thanks,” Tommy smiled. He found it comforting that Adam had so much faith in him.
Adam looked him over and told him, “You look amazing in that suit too.” His expression shifted and he asked, “Are you worried about the red carpet? I hope you don’t find it a bit too much.”
Tommy chuckled. “I’ll be fine, Adam. I’ll just stand beside you and look pretty.”
“Yeah, you can just let me do the talking,” he agreed.
“As if you don’t do that anyway,” Tommy chided him. Instead of answering Adam brought Tommy’s hand up to his lips and kissed the ring he was wearing. Adam was wearing his as well, he never took it off. Tommy’s phone chimed and he quickly pulled it out of his pocket to see what the text was. It was just Jane telling him that Austin had finally gone down for a nap.
He turned to Adam and told him, “Austin’s crashed.”
“Finally,” Adam sighed. “That was a long day.”
“Yeah,” Tommy agreed. “Poor little dude.”
The limo slowed when they reached their destination and when Tommy looked out the window he was momentarily stunned by the crowds lining the street. He’d never done an awards show before; generally Adam had gone on his own to these things or with Lane. The car pulled up to the curb and they waited while the door was opened for them. Tommy only had a second to take in the wall of paparazzi and journalists waiting before they were blinded by camera flashes.
Tommy found himself intimidated by the waiting crowd and even though he’d been the one insisting they come his heart pounded. He wiped his palms on his pant leg, suddenly aware that they were sweating. Adam put on his game face and climbed out of the limo, smiled at everyone and took Tommy’s hand to help him out. More flashes went off as they stood together facing the mob and Adam wrapped his arm around Tommy’s waist protectively.
An attractive woman led them up the red carpet and Adam stopped occasionally as photographers called out “Adam”, “Adam”, over and over again to get his attention. Despite his earlier misgivings, Adam was obviously in his element, turning from side to side, posing for photos from each side of the walkway as they made their way to the reception area. Tommy found the spotlight a bit intense and he hung close to Adam’s side, fighting an urge to bolt for the door.
Finally, they reached the reception hall where all the entertainment correspondents were waiting to interview the attendees before the show. There were large crowds of people throughout the room combination of major stars, minor celebrities and all the associated hangers on. Mingling throughout the mob were the entertainment journalists and celebrity interviewers accompanied by their obligatory camera crews. Tommy could see Joan Rivers off in the distance as well as a guy he recognized from Entertainment Tonight; though he would be loathe to admit he watched it.
Adam chatted easily with everyone, working the crowd with consummate ease. Most of the talk was about Adam’s album, or their new suits, but Adam often steered the conversation towards Tommy’s part in the band. A few interviewers took the bait and threw Tommy a few softball questions which he answered with an ease he didn’t realize he was capable of.
When he wasn’t talking Tommy watched Adam at work. Tommy was a little worried that someone would ask Adam about the fat articles, unable to pass up the chance for a good quote, but no one did. The line up of interviewers seemed endless and Tommy wondered for a moment how Adam found the patience to answer the same questions over and over again.
He’d been unsure why they had to arrive at the Grammy’s so early; well now he knew. It wasn’t long before Tommy got bored with the repeated questions and he found himself glancing around the reception room to see if he knew anyone else who was there. A moment later he wished he hadn’t. His stomach lurched when he noticed Carmen standing with a group of people.
Tommy was about to step behind the camera man who was filming Adam when he realized that Carmen had noticed them as well. She was watching Adam from across the room with narrowed eyes, ignoring a man who continued to speak to her. Tommy dropped his eyes immediately and turned back to Adam’s interview.
He doubted Carmen would do anything but he wasn’t sure having her and Adam together with all of LA’s media was a great idea. Tommy found that his palms were prickling with sweat again. Fortunately Carmen didn’t seem interested in a confrontation. After a moment she returned to her conversation, tossing her hair over her shoulder dismissively, and Tommy let out a breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding.
Adam had moved on and was talking to Ryan Seacrest a few feet away. Tommy was about to join them when he heard, “Tommy!”
He turned around and saw Perez Hilton and his camera man bearing down on him. Tommy put on a smile and steeled himself to talk to him although he thought the guy was an asshole. He’d been one of the most savage writers when it came to Adam’s weight, not that he was anything to look at himself. Tommy was contemplating whether he should call him on being such a dickhead when Perez started barraging him with questions.
His first topic was safe; enthusing about the success of the last album and their chances of winning multiple awards at the show that night. Tommy answered some questions about what they were working on and the plans for a fall tour and was beginning to think the interview was going to be alright when Perez switched to more personal topics.
“Tommy,” he began breathlessly, “So tell me, how long have you and Adam been together?”
“Um, about a year now,” Tommy told him, tossing his bangs off his face.
“And things are going good?”
“Yeah, we’re great,” Tommy assured him.
Perez glanced back to make sure his camera guy was filming and went for the kill. “I’m just a bit confused,” Parez told him, “Everyone thought you were straight, Tommy. What happened?”
“Obviously not that straight,” Tommy told him, wondering where the hell this was all going. It didn’t take him long to find out.
“Didn’t you go out with Carmen Santos?” Perez asked, glancing over towards where Tommy knew Carmen had last been standing.
“Yeah, I did,” Tommy confirmed, fighting down the urge to bite his fingernails.
“So, what does she think about you and Adam?” Perez asked and Tommy’s shrug was non-committal. As easy as it had been to assure Adam he could handle the media scrutiny and tell them to mind their own business it was harder to do with a microphone jammed in his face and surrounded by everyone in the music business. He swallowed nervously and was thinking of what to say when Perez changed tacks.
“And your baby? How is he?” he asked.
“Good,” Tommy told him, blinking into the bright light of the camera which seemed closer all of a sudden.
“It’s a boy, isn’t that right?” Perez continued. “How old is he now?”
Tommy thought furiously; all dates and numbers had disappeared from his head and he frantically tried to anticipate what Perez would do with anything he told him.
“Um, he’s six months old now,” Tommy finally got out.
Perez nodded as if the information confirmed what he’d suspected and pushed on. “So, Tommy, you’ve got to tell us all, who’s the baby momma?”
Tommy didn’t answer, just stared back at Perez, feeling like a deer in the headlights. He was about to tell the guy to go fuck himself when he sensed Adam beside him and immediately felt a wave of relief.
“Excuse us, Perez, I’ve got someone I want Tommy to meet,” Adam said.
His voice was civil but there was a coldness underneath that told Tommy that Adam was a long way from getting over the comments Perez had made about him on TV.
“Hi, Adam,” Perez gushed. “Tommy and I were just talking. We’re not quite done yet.”
“Oh, I think you are,” Adam assured him, making to lead Tommy away, much to Tommy’s relief.
Perez wouldn’t be that easily put off. “I was just asking him about his son,” he told them a little too loudly.
Tommy looked around and noticed that a few people were looking their way and the hum of conversation had dropped off noticeably. He felt Adam’s arm stiffen around him at the comment and he fervently hoped Adam didn’t end up saying something he’d regret.
Adam’s eyes flashed but his voice was calm when he corrected, “He’s our son.”
“In a manner of speaking, I suppose,” Perez agreed. “But come on guys, you can’t both be the father,” he told them in his most condescending tone.
The room quieted even more and Tommy realized that although he was not a violent man, he would have cheerfully taken a gun and shot Perez right between the eyes right at that moment. It got worse as Perez continued; obviously he had a few more tricks up his sleeve.
“I’ve had the team do a bit of research and according to our calculations your son was conceived when you were on tour. So who’s the momma, Tommy? Someone on tour with you? A groupie? I bet it was that hot keyboardist.”
Tommy glared at him and even Adam seemed temporarily at a loss for words. The thought of Cam letting him anywhere near her with his dick almost made Tommy burst out laughing but there was nothing funny about the current situation. Tommy was almost ready to cave in and tell Perez that he was the fucking mother just to see what he would make of it when Adam spoke.
“Come on, Tommy. We’re done here.”
He took Tommy’s hand and started to pull him away but Perez followed them. He wasn’t quite ready to quit.
“Hey, Tommy? Weren’t you still with Carmen last spring?” he asked quietly. “Maybe we should talk to her?”
Adam and Tommy stopped as one and they watched in silent horror as Perez called over to Carmen. She turned from her conversation when she heard her name called and frowned slightly when she realized who it was. Adam’s eyes widened when he saw her and Tommy realized that he’d not noticed she was there. He frantically hoped she’d go back to her friends and ignore them but Perez wouldn’t be denied.
“Carmen, come talk to us a minute?” he wheedled.
Tommy could feel sweat running down his back as Carmen made her way over to them. She didn’t look at all pleased although Tommy wasn’t sure if it was because she’d seen Adam with Tommy or if she hated Perez’s guts as much as everyone else did. He hoped it was the latter. As she joined them Tommy realized he had no fucking idea what she would say to Perez when he asked her about Austin. Tommy smiled at her nervously as she approached; silently hoping she’d keep their secret.
“Hi, Tommy,” she smiled, and then to Tommy’s surprise, gave him a soft kiss on the cheek. She didn’t kiss Adam but she did manage a smile when she greeted him. For Perez there was only an appraising look as she waited to see what he wanted.
“Hey, Carmen,” Perez started, “Glad you could join us.”
“Hello, Perez,” she greeted him coolly. “What do you want? I don’t have much time.”
“I was just talking to Tommy about his baby,” Perez said, getting her up to speed. “I’ve just been asking him who the momma is.”
Tommy could swear the room was so quiet he could hear the ice rattling in the cocktails and it seemed to stretch on for hours. Adam was squeezing Tommy’s hand so tight he thought his fingers might break and he wondered for a second how the fuck he would play the guitar later if they did. Everything hung on what Carmen chose to do next.
Carmen considered the question a moment, looking at Perez thoughtfully, and then finally spoke.
“That’s none of anyone’s business, Perez,” she told him haughtily. “Tommy’s being a gentleman. He’s being considerate of my feelings by not talking about it in public.”
To emphasize her point and to show him just who’s side she was on Carmen slid in beside Tommy and put her arm firmly around his waist and glared up at Perez. Tommy threw his arm around her too, in what he hoped looked like a familiar gesture. Adam eased off his fingers slightly and a bit of circulation crept back into them.
Carmen had one more thing to say on the subject. “Tommy and I are still friends,” she informed Perez. “Move along, there’s nothing to see here.”
Carmen was smiling, her tone light, but there was no doubt she meant it. Tommy felt a flair of admiration at her balls. The comment were directed at Perez but was meant for the whole room and conversations gradually picked up as people realized there would be no spectacle.
The three of them stared at Perez in silence until he finally realized he’d get no good gossip from them and moved on to another victim. He focused on a passing starlet and took off in her wake, leaving them in peace. Tommy and Adam watched him go and then let out a collective sigh of relief.
“Fuck,” Tommy let out under his breath.
“You okay?” Adam asked him worriedly, pulling Tommy in for a quick hug. He sounded fairly calm but Tommy could sense he was also shaken by the experience.
Tommy nodded quickly into his chest and then turned to Carmen who was standing there watching the two of them quietly. “Thank you,” he told her gratefully.
“No problem, Tommy,” she assured him. “Perez is a bottom feeder. I wouldn’t give him a story if he was the last person on earth.”
She squeezed his arm. “Don’t worry, I told you I wouldn’t say anything.”
Tommy smiled gratefully. It was good to know she really was on his side, their side he quickly corrected when he realized she was speaking to the two of them. Adam stepped forward and for a crazy moment Tommy thought he was going to give Carmen a hug but he must have thought better of it because he stopped.
“Look, Carmen,” he said. “I owe you an apology for what happened. It was shitty what we were doing.”
Carmen turned to him and nodded. “Yes, it was. And you do,” she agreed. Then she smiled slightly and looked from one of them to the other. “But I accept it,” she told them before adding, “This is probably not the best place to be talking about all this.”
Adam agreed, “You’re right. Come on, I’ll get us all a drink before we go in?”
She nodded and the three of them made their way towards the beverage table and waited in a quiet corner while Adam got them something. Carmen accepted a glass of wine from Adam and then regarded him seriously while she took a sip. Her glance slid from his face down to the hand that was holding his drink, taking in the gold band for the first time.
“So, you love him?” she demanded and Adam flinched at her tone.
He nodded immediately and assured her, “Yeah, more than anything. Except Austin, I love him a lot too,” he added.
“And you’re going to look after him?” she continued. “And Austin?”
Adam glared at her a second before he bit out, “Of course.” Tommy was worried for a moment that the two of them were going to get into it in front of everyone and he glanced around nervously.
Even Tommy had bristled a little at her question; as if he needed to be fucking looked after. Jesus fuck, the two of them made it sound like he was an invalid. Fortunately Carmen backed off after that one and just watched Adam thoughtfully; taking in the protective arm he had thrown over Tommy’s shoulder and the determined look on his face.
She nodded and told him, “Well, just make sure that you do. Or I’ll cut your balls off.”
Tommy couldn’t help but chuckle at the threat but he stopped quickly once he realized that Adam was gaping at Carmen, obviously quite sure she meant it. He didn’t know her well enough to realize she was kidding.
Just then a photographer called out to them and asked if he could get a picture of the three of them together and they dutifully obliged, smiling a little tensely as they stood with Carmen in the middle. A couple more photos were taken and then there was an announcement that everyone should take their seats in the auditorium.
As the crowd began to slowly move towards the doors Carmen turned to face the two of them and leaned in to kiss Tommy once more on the cheek.
“It was good to see you again, Tommy,” she told him easily. “Have a good show tonight. You too Adam,” she added as an afterthought. “I’m sure you two will be great.”
She tossed her hair back off her shoulder and turned to rejoin the group she’d been with earlier where they were waiting for her. She paused and glanced back at Adam, telling him, “Remember, I’ll be watching you,” before winking at Tommy.
Tommy laughed again at that. A lot of his friends weren’t big fans of Carmen, and their relationship had definitely ended on a sour note, but she had come through in the end. He watched her cross the room and had to also admit that, dressed up as she was tonight, in her heels, hips swaying; she looked like a million bucks.
Echoing his thoughts Adam muttered, “She’s still a bitch, but damn, she’s a classy bitch.”
*****************************************
They finally got inside and found their seats. Adam had cashed in more favours and acquired seats for Monte and Isaac too and Tommy was relieved to see the two of them were already there. It felt like a dream, being at the Grammy’s. He’d been touring with Adam for years but this was big, much bigger than that. Not so much for Adam, he’d won Grammy’s in the past, and he belonged here like no one else, but for Tommy it was huge.
The first awards were handed out and they sat through a country song that made all of them shift around in boredom. Adam picked up his first Grammy for best rock vocal performance and Tommy gave him a quick kiss before he got up to accept it. A little while later he won again for Best Pop Album and this time Adam made them all come with him and share in the award.
After that it was time to head backstage to set up for their number. They’d debated whether to wear costumes but had decided to just fuck it and stay in the same clothes. Tommy, Monte and Isaac took off their jackets to play while Adam stayed in his full suit. It looked so good on him they figured he might as well.
Adam had been warned that there would be no re-enactment of the infamous AMA’s and had grudgingly agreed. Tommy wasn’t entirely sure Adam would do as he was told and was totally prepared to go along. Fuck them, he figured. Monte wasn’t quite so sangfroid about it all; the network suits had read him the riot act because he was the musical director and told he he’d be held accountable for the performance if there were complaints.
They stood in the wings while the host rattled off some inane jokes and waited for their turn. When it was finally time they all fist bumped and took their places on stage. As the lights went up and they kicked into the signature intro to For Your Entertainment the crowd was on its feet; they obviously knew they were in for a show.
The band was tight for not having played in almost a year; the last month of rehearsals had paid off in spades. Tommy felt his nerves finally calm as he settled in to do what he loved. He scanned the audience as Adam started to sing. He was amazing; his voice sounded better than ever. He may have spent the last year on the down low, first with his pregnant boyfriend and then changing their son’s diapers and getting puked on, but he was definitely on tonight.
He prowled the stage like he owned it, his ample body language and sex appeal making it clear to everyone what the song was all about. Where he’d been pitchy at the last awards show he’d done the song, this time he nailed it. When he opened his jacket and dragged his hand languidly up over his crotch and sang the words he had the audience in the palm of his hand.
Oh!
I bet you thought that I was soft and sweet
You thought an angel swept you off your feet
But I'm about to turn up the heat
I'm here for your entertainment
'Cause it's about to get rough for you
I'm here for your entertainment
Adam strutted back and forth along the edge of the stage; there were no dancers this time, no razzamatazz, just the band and one consummate performer at the top of his game. Tommy had seen Adam sing this song more ways than he could count; flirty, sexy, darkly sexual and dangerous. This was the first time he’s seen Adam sing it angry and with this much intensity. It was a warning shot, a bold statement to everyone that had doubted him that he was back in the game. Adam owned the stage and the crowd was loving it.
When Adam sauntered towards Tommy Monte gave them both such a dirty look that Tommy started to laugh. Adam got to the part where he’d kissed Tommy the last time and leaned in and the audience screamed even louder, if that was possible. Monte looked like he was about to swallow his tongue and Tommy took pity on him, spinning away after giving Adam a wink. Adam continued singing, smirking at Monte as he sauntered past, and missing the exasperated look Monte gave him in return.
They finished without incident and left the stage to a standing ovation before going back to their seats. They watched a few more acts interspersed with awards until it was Adam’s turn again. This time he won Record of the Year as well as Song of the year; Tommy could never figure out what the difference was.
Finally, as the show wound down, it was time for the finale. They left Isaac and Monte and went backstage again. Tommy took some deep breaths while he waited to go on, hit once more with the jitters. Adam pulled him into a hug and kissed him on the forehead and told him “You’ll be awesome.”
Adam’s song was last. As the women took turns doing Simply the Best, Tiny Dancer, and then Proud Mary, he did backup vocals. Everyone nailed their parts, particularly Amy Winehouse, now back from her own private hell of drug addiction. Tommy had never been a huge Motown fan but he had to admit the production rocked.
He was watching the show so intently he almost missed his cue and barely got set for his intro to River Deep, Mountain High in time. He shrugged off his nerves and started to play, his forehead creased in concentration as he worked through the arrangement. He sailed through the first intricate section and soon settled in to the number, waiting for Adam to sing. Tommy had heard Adam run through the number a few times and figured he was about to knock everyone on their asses.
Adam didn’t disappoint. He took that old song and turned it inside out. Adam may have spent the last years with material that wasn’t worthy of his talent, phoning in lacklustre performances, and putting out mediocre albums but given a great song like this one he shone. It gave Tommy goose bumps when he heard how good Adam could be when he put his fucking heart into something. The audience was on its feet again, knowing they were witnessing something historic as Adam Fucking Lambert took it downtown.
When I was a little boy I had a rag doll
The only doll I’ve ever owned
Now I love you just the way I loved that rag doll
But only now my love has grown
And it gets stronger in every way
And it gets deeper let me say
And it gets higher day by day
Adam directed the verses towards Tommy, being sure to stand right beside him so there was no doubt who he was singing about. It was only as he reached the chorus that Adam went back and joined the rest of the vocalists.
Do I love you my oh my
River deep, mountain high yeah yeah yeah
If I lost you would I cry
Oh how I love you baby, baby, baby, baby
On the next verse Adam was back, smiling playfully at Tommy as he sang. Tommy didn’t think he could remember ever hearing Adam sound so good. He kept most of it in the lower register, watched the pitch, and didn’t let the high notes get away from him. It was restrained but powerful, in no way self-indulgent or over the top. Tommy loosened up enough to get into the performance and sauntered across the stage while he played so that Adam could follow.
When you were a young boy did you have a puppy
That always followed you around
Well I’m gonna be as faithful as that puppy
No I’ll never let you down
Cause it goes on and on like a river flows
And it gets bigger baby and heaven knows
And it gets sweeter baby as it grows
Do I love you my oh my
River deep, mountain high yeah yeah yeah
If I lost you would I cry
Oh how I love you baby, baby, baby, baby
Adam’s performance was a tour de force. He kept it real and heartfelt, right from the soul. The women singing with him watched as he did his verse, knowing they were seeing something important; a demonstration of what a superb singer could do with a great song. The best part for Tommy was that Adam was singing the whole fucking thing to him. Tommy had tears in his eyes when they were done.
The two of them stood arm in arm for a standing ovation that seemed to last forever. Just as the cheering slowed Adam pulled Tommy into a kiss and everyone was hooting again. Tommy became aware of Monte standing beside them and heard him whisper, “Come on, move along now, boys.”
The end of the ceremony was a bit of a blur. They went back to their seats for the final few awards and Tommy was thrilled when Adam won Album of the Year. It was a clean sweep. They all went up again to accept, at Adam’s insistence, and Tommy blushed when instead of thanking the record company and fans once again, Adam turned to Tommy and thanked him for being the best thing that had happened to him this year.
*******************************
They were walking through the lobby with Monte and Isaac and debating whether they should go to Madonna’s after-party for a few minutes or not when Tommy’s phone rang. They exchanged a quick glance and stopped so that Tommy could take it and Adam checked his watch. 11:05 pm, Austin was nothing if not predictable.
Tommy listened to Jane and then said, “Sure, we’re on our way.” He turned to Adam with a helpless look and shrugged. They could both hear Austin’s cries in the background.
They caught up with the guys and Adam told them, “Got to run, Austin’s still up. Guess he’s waiting for us to get home.”
Monte smiled at them. “You’d better go then.”
Tommy was actually relieved to be heading home. The stress of their evening out was catching up to him and now that the adrenaline was settling down he could feel fatigue washing over him. He leaned against Adam a little for support while he called the limo driver and told him to meet them.
In the limo, Tommy yawned widely as he did up his belt. “That was a blast, but I’m ready to go home,” he admitted.
“You too tired?” Adam asked, raising his eye brows in a suggestive look. Neal was out of town for the weekend.
Tommy shook his head. “No way, but if we’d stayed for another hour, I might have been. “Well, thank Christ Austin’s acting up,” Adam laughed.
“Yeah, it’s so much more diplomatic to say ‘Austin’s awake and crying’ than ‘We’re going home to fuck,” Tommy agreed.
“We should have told Isaac that,” Adam smirked, as the limo pulled out into traffic.
Tommy snorted. “He’s way too interested in our sex life as it is.”
He leaned against Adam and sighed as Adam put his arm around him. He took Adam’s hand in his, the one with the ring on it, and wound their fingers together. It had been a good night and he was damn proud of Adam.
“You rocked tonight, baby,” he told him.
“Thanks,” Adam murmured, sounding tired. “So did you.”
********************************
At home, Austin was clinging to Jane tightly, sobbing loudly, and Adam took him, smiling his thanks to Jane, while Tommy went and made Austin’s bottle up. Both Jane and Adam were of the opinion that Austin shouldn’t be having milk before bed now that he had teeth coming in, but Tommy overrode both of them tonight. Most nights he just got water but Grammy night was for celebrating so milk it would be.
Jane left quietly while Adam tried to soothe Austin, carrying him into their bedroom and putting him on the bed and lying down beside him, Tommy following closely behind. Austin didn’t stop crying until Tommy stretched out on the bed on the other side of him and gave him the bottle.
They’d just started this night time ritual in the last couple weeks. Now that Austin was only waking once during the night they’d taken to all going to bed together and alternating nights of getting up for the early morning feed. Now, between 10:00 and 11:00 at night, they’d let Austin fall asleep between them in the bed and then one of them would take him to his room.
Austin sucked his bottle contentedly, eyes fixed on Tommy. Tommy was quiet too, his eyes on Austin. A couple minutes later Tommy turned his head a little to look at Adam and saw him watching the two of them fondly. After a few minutes the sucking slowed and Austins eyes began to close. When his eyes had shut and the bottle had slipped from his slack lips Tommy sat up in bed and picked him up gently.
“Okay, buddy,” he told Austin, “You’re going down.”
Adam leaned over and kissed Austin’s cheek and watched Tommy cradle Austin in his arms, stand up, and carry him off to bed. Tommy was back in a couple minutes, closing the door, and quickly getting out of his clothes. Adam had already undressed and soon Tommy was clambering back onto the bed to join him, unable to stop himself from smiling with anticipation.
There was no one else in the house but the three of them, they were alone. Austin was asleep now, and would sleep until early morning. This was Tommy and Adam's time; when they could just be themselves instead of rock stars, or businessmen, or parents. At night, in bed, before they fell into an exhausted sleep, they could be lovers. Adam was grinning too and he reached for Tommy, pulling him down on top of him.
“God,” he whispered, “I’ve been waiting for this all day.”
“Yeah,” Tommy agreed, as he wedged himself between Adam's legs. “Me too.”
The End - for now
Title: No Expectations - Chapter Twenty
Author: firiel77
Word Count: 6392
Warnings: WIP, Mpreg
Rating: G
Pairings: Adam/Tommy
Summary: Tommy’s just feeling a bit off. Set about five years in the future. Adam is a Rock God. Tommy plays guitar for him.
Beta: thrace_adams Whee, thanks so much for stepping in with the beta and the encouragement.
CreditThank you to chaosmanor for graciously agreeing to let me rework her wonderful story Thursday's Child in a different fandom; this fic is what inspired me to try mpreg which is saying something. I encourage everyone to read it. It can be found right here.
Disclaimer: This is fiction people.
Feedback: Sure. Let me know what’s working for you.
Authors Notes: I never thought I’d do it but this is a big old MPreg. Read if you dare. It’s also a WIP and I’m not sure where it will go yet although it will probably be fairly long and I’ve got quite a few chapters roughed out. I’ve just been seeing people pining for domestic fics and (gulp) babies so thought I’d give it a shot.
Thank you jashelle1 for the awesome banner and poster you did for my story. You’re the best.
Previous Chapters Here
It was Grammy night and Tommy didn’t think they were ever going to get out of the fucking house. Austin was being abnormally fussy even for him and they’d had to halt their preparations several times to try to sooth him. Nothing had worked and Tommy finally just handed him to Jane and asked her to take him for a walk so that they could get ready in peace.
She was just coming back down the hall as they were leaving and Adam stopped to give her a few more instructions before the elevator arrived. He held out his hands to accept a still shrieking Austin but then looked down at his suit and thought better of it. Tommy grabbed Adam by the arm, pulled him into the waiting elevator and they only had time to hear Jane assure them one more time that they’d be fine before the door closed.
The limo they’d booked was waiting on the street and the driver held the door open for them as Tommy ducked in, pulling Adam after him. He sank back into the leather seat and turned to Adam who was fussing nervously with his tie. When he noticed Tommy watching him he stopped what he was doing and smiled. Tommy reached across and took his hand, squeezing it reassuringly.
Adam smiled more easily and leaned back into the seat, letting out a long breath, visibly willing himself to relax. It took a while but Tommy had finally convinced him to do the Grammy’s but he was doing it reluctantly. The articles about his weight still stung and he was uneasy about performing in public although he had managed to lose enough to feel better about himself.
The two of them had celebrated by going out and buying suits for the occasion. Tommy was appalled at spending more than what any of his cars had cost but Adam had just laughed and told him to get used to it. The suits were Italian, cutting edge yet classy, and fit them both perfectly. Tommy had to admit it was money well spent.
They’d also gotten haircuts. Tommy’s bangs were growing back and though they weren’t nearly as long as in the past they were coming along nicely and he got the sides of his head cut short again. Adam had something new that looked damn good on him. Tommy had looked Adam over when he was ready and told him he looked fucking gorgeous. Adam had made a dismissive sound but clearly he had been pleased with the compliment; he’d been wearing a faint smile ever since.
The show’s producers had been delighted with Adam’s change of heart and he’d been given free reign over which song he performed. He’d decided to perform his first single, For Your Entertainment, the one that had been so controversial early in his career. It was a testament to how much the producers wanted him that they didn’t even blink an eye.
Adam had been proud of the song. It had annoyed him that FYE was unceremoniously pulled from promotion and died a quick death after the controversy. It had been a good song and was still a favourite at his shows. Tommy figured Adam was right; it deserved another shot. He’d laughingly told Adam no kissing though; he didn’t relish another shit storm of protest from the moral majority.
Adam was also going to participate in a tribute to Tina Turner along with Xtina, Lady Gaga, and Amy Winehouse which would close the show. He’d be performing River Deep, Mountain High during his segment and had agreed to do it on one condition; Tommy would be playing guitar alongside him. The producers had been dubious at first, as had Tommy, but Adam had held firm and as usual had gotten his way.
Tommy was honoured to be playing the classic but the guitar solo had him freaked. He’d tried talking Adam out of it but he’d been adamant; he wanted Tommy there beside him if he was going on national television looking like he did. Tommy had gone to Monte for help with the arrangement and he’d been practising nightly. He had to admit it sounded pretty badass but he was still nervous as hell. He didn’t really want to fuck it up on national TV.
They’d been to the venue that morning for sound check and they’d sounded good but while the car slid through traffic Tommy still ran over River Deep, Mountain High in his mind. His fingers twitched reflexively as he worked out the cords. Adam noticed what he was doing and took his hand.
“You nervous?”
Tommy shrugged. “Maybe a bit,” he admitted. It was a complicated piece of music.
“You’re going to be great,” Adam assured him.
“Thanks,” Tommy smiled. He found it comforting that Adam had so much faith in him.
Adam looked him over and told him, “You look amazing in that suit too.” His expression shifted and he asked, “Are you worried about the red carpet? I hope you don’t find it a bit too much.”
Tommy chuckled. “I’ll be fine, Adam. I’ll just stand beside you and look pretty.”
“Yeah, you can just let me do the talking,” he agreed.
“As if you don’t do that anyway,” Tommy chided him. Instead of answering Adam brought Tommy’s hand up to his lips and kissed the ring he was wearing. Adam was wearing his as well, he never took it off. Tommy’s phone chimed and he quickly pulled it out of his pocket to see what the text was. It was just Jane telling him that Austin had finally gone down for a nap.
He turned to Adam and told him, “Austin’s crashed.”
“Finally,” Adam sighed. “That was a long day.”
“Yeah,” Tommy agreed. “Poor little dude.”
The limo slowed when they reached their destination and when Tommy looked out the window he was momentarily stunned by the crowds lining the street. He’d never done an awards show before; generally Adam had gone on his own to these things or with Lane. The car pulled up to the curb and they waited while the door was opened for them. Tommy only had a second to take in the wall of paparazzi and journalists waiting before they were blinded by camera flashes.
Tommy found himself intimidated by the waiting crowd and even though he’d been the one insisting they come his heart pounded. He wiped his palms on his pant leg, suddenly aware that they were sweating. Adam put on his game face and climbed out of the limo, smiled at everyone and took Tommy’s hand to help him out. More flashes went off as they stood together facing the mob and Adam wrapped his arm around Tommy’s waist protectively.
An attractive woman led them up the red carpet and Adam stopped occasionally as photographers called out “Adam”, “Adam”, over and over again to get his attention. Despite his earlier misgivings, Adam was obviously in his element, turning from side to side, posing for photos from each side of the walkway as they made their way to the reception area. Tommy found the spotlight a bit intense and he hung close to Adam’s side, fighting an urge to bolt for the door.
Finally, they reached the reception hall where all the entertainment correspondents were waiting to interview the attendees before the show. There were large crowds of people throughout the room combination of major stars, minor celebrities and all the associated hangers on. Mingling throughout the mob were the entertainment journalists and celebrity interviewers accompanied by their obligatory camera crews. Tommy could see Joan Rivers off in the distance as well as a guy he recognized from Entertainment Tonight; though he would be loathe to admit he watched it.
Adam chatted easily with everyone, working the crowd with consummate ease. Most of the talk was about Adam’s album, or their new suits, but Adam often steered the conversation towards Tommy’s part in the band. A few interviewers took the bait and threw Tommy a few softball questions which he answered with an ease he didn’t realize he was capable of.
When he wasn’t talking Tommy watched Adam at work. Tommy was a little worried that someone would ask Adam about the fat articles, unable to pass up the chance for a good quote, but no one did. The line up of interviewers seemed endless and Tommy wondered for a moment how Adam found the patience to answer the same questions over and over again.
He’d been unsure why they had to arrive at the Grammy’s so early; well now he knew. It wasn’t long before Tommy got bored with the repeated questions and he found himself glancing around the reception room to see if he knew anyone else who was there. A moment later he wished he hadn’t. His stomach lurched when he noticed Carmen standing with a group of people.
Tommy was about to step behind the camera man who was filming Adam when he realized that Carmen had noticed them as well. She was watching Adam from across the room with narrowed eyes, ignoring a man who continued to speak to her. Tommy dropped his eyes immediately and turned back to Adam’s interview.
He doubted Carmen would do anything but he wasn’t sure having her and Adam together with all of LA’s media was a great idea. Tommy found that his palms were prickling with sweat again. Fortunately Carmen didn’t seem interested in a confrontation. After a moment she returned to her conversation, tossing her hair over her shoulder dismissively, and Tommy let out a breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding.
Adam had moved on and was talking to Ryan Seacrest a few feet away. Tommy was about to join them when he heard, “Tommy!”
He turned around and saw Perez Hilton and his camera man bearing down on him. Tommy put on a smile and steeled himself to talk to him although he thought the guy was an asshole. He’d been one of the most savage writers when it came to Adam’s weight, not that he was anything to look at himself. Tommy was contemplating whether he should call him on being such a dickhead when Perez started barraging him with questions.
His first topic was safe; enthusing about the success of the last album and their chances of winning multiple awards at the show that night. Tommy answered some questions about what they were working on and the plans for a fall tour and was beginning to think the interview was going to be alright when Perez switched to more personal topics.
“Tommy,” he began breathlessly, “So tell me, how long have you and Adam been together?”
“Um, about a year now,” Tommy told him, tossing his bangs off his face.
“And things are going good?”
“Yeah, we’re great,” Tommy assured him.
Perez glanced back to make sure his camera guy was filming and went for the kill. “I’m just a bit confused,” Parez told him, “Everyone thought you were straight, Tommy. What happened?”
“Obviously not that straight,” Tommy told him, wondering where the hell this was all going. It didn’t take him long to find out.
“Didn’t you go out with Carmen Santos?” Perez asked, glancing over towards where Tommy knew Carmen had last been standing.
“Yeah, I did,” Tommy confirmed, fighting down the urge to bite his fingernails.
“So, what does she think about you and Adam?” Perez asked and Tommy’s shrug was non-committal. As easy as it had been to assure Adam he could handle the media scrutiny and tell them to mind their own business it was harder to do with a microphone jammed in his face and surrounded by everyone in the music business. He swallowed nervously and was thinking of what to say when Perez changed tacks.
“And your baby? How is he?” he asked.
“Good,” Tommy told him, blinking into the bright light of the camera which seemed closer all of a sudden.
“It’s a boy, isn’t that right?” Perez continued. “How old is he now?”
Tommy thought furiously; all dates and numbers had disappeared from his head and he frantically tried to anticipate what Perez would do with anything he told him.
“Um, he’s six months old now,” Tommy finally got out.
Perez nodded as if the information confirmed what he’d suspected and pushed on. “So, Tommy, you’ve got to tell us all, who’s the baby momma?”
Tommy didn’t answer, just stared back at Perez, feeling like a deer in the headlights. He was about to tell the guy to go fuck himself when he sensed Adam beside him and immediately felt a wave of relief.
“Excuse us, Perez, I’ve got someone I want Tommy to meet,” Adam said.
His voice was civil but there was a coldness underneath that told Tommy that Adam was a long way from getting over the comments Perez had made about him on TV.
“Hi, Adam,” Perez gushed. “Tommy and I were just talking. We’re not quite done yet.”
“Oh, I think you are,” Adam assured him, making to lead Tommy away, much to Tommy’s relief.
Perez wouldn’t be that easily put off. “I was just asking him about his son,” he told them a little too loudly.
Tommy looked around and noticed that a few people were looking their way and the hum of conversation had dropped off noticeably. He felt Adam’s arm stiffen around him at the comment and he fervently hoped Adam didn’t end up saying something he’d regret.
Adam’s eyes flashed but his voice was calm when he corrected, “He’s our son.”
“In a manner of speaking, I suppose,” Perez agreed. “But come on guys, you can’t both be the father,” he told them in his most condescending tone.
The room quieted even more and Tommy realized that although he was not a violent man, he would have cheerfully taken a gun and shot Perez right between the eyes right at that moment. It got worse as Perez continued; obviously he had a few more tricks up his sleeve.
“I’ve had the team do a bit of research and according to our calculations your son was conceived when you were on tour. So who’s the momma, Tommy? Someone on tour with you? A groupie? I bet it was that hot keyboardist.”
Tommy glared at him and even Adam seemed temporarily at a loss for words. The thought of Cam letting him anywhere near her with his dick almost made Tommy burst out laughing but there was nothing funny about the current situation. Tommy was almost ready to cave in and tell Perez that he was the fucking mother just to see what he would make of it when Adam spoke.
“Come on, Tommy. We’re done here.”
He took Tommy’s hand and started to pull him away but Perez followed them. He wasn’t quite ready to quit.
“Hey, Tommy? Weren’t you still with Carmen last spring?” he asked quietly. “Maybe we should talk to her?”
Adam and Tommy stopped as one and they watched in silent horror as Perez called over to Carmen. She turned from her conversation when she heard her name called and frowned slightly when she realized who it was. Adam’s eyes widened when he saw her and Tommy realized that he’d not noticed she was there. He frantically hoped she’d go back to her friends and ignore them but Perez wouldn’t be denied.
“Carmen, come talk to us a minute?” he wheedled.
Tommy could feel sweat running down his back as Carmen made her way over to them. She didn’t look at all pleased although Tommy wasn’t sure if it was because she’d seen Adam with Tommy or if she hated Perez’s guts as much as everyone else did. He hoped it was the latter. As she joined them Tommy realized he had no fucking idea what she would say to Perez when he asked her about Austin. Tommy smiled at her nervously as she approached; silently hoping she’d keep their secret.
“Hi, Tommy,” she smiled, and then to Tommy’s surprise, gave him a soft kiss on the cheek. She didn’t kiss Adam but she did manage a smile when she greeted him. For Perez there was only an appraising look as she waited to see what he wanted.
“Hey, Carmen,” Perez started, “Glad you could join us.”
“Hello, Perez,” she greeted him coolly. “What do you want? I don’t have much time.”
“I was just talking to Tommy about his baby,” Perez said, getting her up to speed. “I’ve just been asking him who the momma is.”
Tommy could swear the room was so quiet he could hear the ice rattling in the cocktails and it seemed to stretch on for hours. Adam was squeezing Tommy’s hand so tight he thought his fingers might break and he wondered for a second how the fuck he would play the guitar later if they did. Everything hung on what Carmen chose to do next.
Carmen considered the question a moment, looking at Perez thoughtfully, and then finally spoke.
“That’s none of anyone’s business, Perez,” she told him haughtily. “Tommy’s being a gentleman. He’s being considerate of my feelings by not talking about it in public.”
To emphasize her point and to show him just who’s side she was on Carmen slid in beside Tommy and put her arm firmly around his waist and glared up at Perez. Tommy threw his arm around her too, in what he hoped looked like a familiar gesture. Adam eased off his fingers slightly and a bit of circulation crept back into them.
Carmen had one more thing to say on the subject. “Tommy and I are still friends,” she informed Perez. “Move along, there’s nothing to see here.”
Carmen was smiling, her tone light, but there was no doubt she meant it. Tommy felt a flair of admiration at her balls. The comment were directed at Perez but was meant for the whole room and conversations gradually picked up as people realized there would be no spectacle.
The three of them stared at Perez in silence until he finally realized he’d get no good gossip from them and moved on to another victim. He focused on a passing starlet and took off in her wake, leaving them in peace. Tommy and Adam watched him go and then let out a collective sigh of relief.
“Fuck,” Tommy let out under his breath.
“You okay?” Adam asked him worriedly, pulling Tommy in for a quick hug. He sounded fairly calm but Tommy could sense he was also shaken by the experience.
Tommy nodded quickly into his chest and then turned to Carmen who was standing there watching the two of them quietly. “Thank you,” he told her gratefully.
“No problem, Tommy,” she assured him. “Perez is a bottom feeder. I wouldn’t give him a story if he was the last person on earth.”
She squeezed his arm. “Don’t worry, I told you I wouldn’t say anything.”
Tommy smiled gratefully. It was good to know she really was on his side, their side he quickly corrected when he realized she was speaking to the two of them. Adam stepped forward and for a crazy moment Tommy thought he was going to give Carmen a hug but he must have thought better of it because he stopped.
“Look, Carmen,” he said. “I owe you an apology for what happened. It was shitty what we were doing.”
Carmen turned to him and nodded. “Yes, it was. And you do,” she agreed. Then she smiled slightly and looked from one of them to the other. “But I accept it,” she told them before adding, “This is probably not the best place to be talking about all this.”
Adam agreed, “You’re right. Come on, I’ll get us all a drink before we go in?”
She nodded and the three of them made their way towards the beverage table and waited in a quiet corner while Adam got them something. Carmen accepted a glass of wine from Adam and then regarded him seriously while she took a sip. Her glance slid from his face down to the hand that was holding his drink, taking in the gold band for the first time.
“So, you love him?” she demanded and Adam flinched at her tone.
He nodded immediately and assured her, “Yeah, more than anything. Except Austin, I love him a lot too,” he added.
“And you’re going to look after him?” she continued. “And Austin?”
Adam glared at her a second before he bit out, “Of course.” Tommy was worried for a moment that the two of them were going to get into it in front of everyone and he glanced around nervously.
Even Tommy had bristled a little at her question; as if he needed to be fucking looked after. Jesus fuck, the two of them made it sound like he was an invalid. Fortunately Carmen backed off after that one and just watched Adam thoughtfully; taking in the protective arm he had thrown over Tommy’s shoulder and the determined look on his face.
She nodded and told him, “Well, just make sure that you do. Or I’ll cut your balls off.”
Tommy couldn’t help but chuckle at the threat but he stopped quickly once he realized that Adam was gaping at Carmen, obviously quite sure she meant it. He didn’t know her well enough to realize she was kidding.
Just then a photographer called out to them and asked if he could get a picture of the three of them together and they dutifully obliged, smiling a little tensely as they stood with Carmen in the middle. A couple more photos were taken and then there was an announcement that everyone should take their seats in the auditorium.
As the crowd began to slowly move towards the doors Carmen turned to face the two of them and leaned in to kiss Tommy once more on the cheek.
“It was good to see you again, Tommy,” she told him easily. “Have a good show tonight. You too Adam,” she added as an afterthought. “I’m sure you two will be great.”
She tossed her hair back off her shoulder and turned to rejoin the group she’d been with earlier where they were waiting for her. She paused and glanced back at Adam, telling him, “Remember, I’ll be watching you,” before winking at Tommy.
Tommy laughed again at that. A lot of his friends weren’t big fans of Carmen, and their relationship had definitely ended on a sour note, but she had come through in the end. He watched her cross the room and had to also admit that, dressed up as she was tonight, in her heels, hips swaying; she looked like a million bucks.
Echoing his thoughts Adam muttered, “She’s still a bitch, but damn, she’s a classy bitch.”
*****************************************
They finally got inside and found their seats. Adam had cashed in more favours and acquired seats for Monte and Isaac too and Tommy was relieved to see the two of them were already there. It felt like a dream, being at the Grammy’s. He’d been touring with Adam for years but this was big, much bigger than that. Not so much for Adam, he’d won Grammy’s in the past, and he belonged here like no one else, but for Tommy it was huge.
The first awards were handed out and they sat through a country song that made all of them shift around in boredom. Adam picked up his first Grammy for best rock vocal performance and Tommy gave him a quick kiss before he got up to accept it. A little while later he won again for Best Pop Album and this time Adam made them all come with him and share in the award.
After that it was time to head backstage to set up for their number. They’d debated whether to wear costumes but had decided to just fuck it and stay in the same clothes. Tommy, Monte and Isaac took off their jackets to play while Adam stayed in his full suit. It looked so good on him they figured he might as well.
Adam had been warned that there would be no re-enactment of the infamous AMA’s and had grudgingly agreed. Tommy wasn’t entirely sure Adam would do as he was told and was totally prepared to go along. Fuck them, he figured. Monte wasn’t quite so sangfroid about it all; the network suits had read him the riot act because he was the musical director and told he he’d be held accountable for the performance if there were complaints.
They stood in the wings while the host rattled off some inane jokes and waited for their turn. When it was finally time they all fist bumped and took their places on stage. As the lights went up and they kicked into the signature intro to For Your Entertainment the crowd was on its feet; they obviously knew they were in for a show.
The band was tight for not having played in almost a year; the last month of rehearsals had paid off in spades. Tommy felt his nerves finally calm as he settled in to do what he loved. He scanned the audience as Adam started to sing. He was amazing; his voice sounded better than ever. He may have spent the last year on the down low, first with his pregnant boyfriend and then changing their son’s diapers and getting puked on, but he was definitely on tonight.
He prowled the stage like he owned it, his ample body language and sex appeal making it clear to everyone what the song was all about. Where he’d been pitchy at the last awards show he’d done the song, this time he nailed it. When he opened his jacket and dragged his hand languidly up over his crotch and sang the words he had the audience in the palm of his hand.
Oh!
I bet you thought that I was soft and sweet
You thought an angel swept you off your feet
But I'm about to turn up the heat
I'm here for your entertainment
'Cause it's about to get rough for you
I'm here for your entertainment
Adam strutted back and forth along the edge of the stage; there were no dancers this time, no razzamatazz, just the band and one consummate performer at the top of his game. Tommy had seen Adam sing this song more ways than he could count; flirty, sexy, darkly sexual and dangerous. This was the first time he’s seen Adam sing it angry and with this much intensity. It was a warning shot, a bold statement to everyone that had doubted him that he was back in the game. Adam owned the stage and the crowd was loving it.
When Adam sauntered towards Tommy Monte gave them both such a dirty look that Tommy started to laugh. Adam got to the part where he’d kissed Tommy the last time and leaned in and the audience screamed even louder, if that was possible. Monte looked like he was about to swallow his tongue and Tommy took pity on him, spinning away after giving Adam a wink. Adam continued singing, smirking at Monte as he sauntered past, and missing the exasperated look Monte gave him in return.
They finished without incident and left the stage to a standing ovation before going back to their seats. They watched a few more acts interspersed with awards until it was Adam’s turn again. This time he won Record of the Year as well as Song of the year; Tommy could never figure out what the difference was.
Finally, as the show wound down, it was time for the finale. They left Isaac and Monte and went backstage again. Tommy took some deep breaths while he waited to go on, hit once more with the jitters. Adam pulled him into a hug and kissed him on the forehead and told him “You’ll be awesome.”
Adam’s song was last. As the women took turns doing Simply the Best, Tiny Dancer, and then Proud Mary, he did backup vocals. Everyone nailed their parts, particularly Amy Winehouse, now back from her own private hell of drug addiction. Tommy had never been a huge Motown fan but he had to admit the production rocked.
He was watching the show so intently he almost missed his cue and barely got set for his intro to River Deep, Mountain High in time. He shrugged off his nerves and started to play, his forehead creased in concentration as he worked through the arrangement. He sailed through the first intricate section and soon settled in to the number, waiting for Adam to sing. Tommy had heard Adam run through the number a few times and figured he was about to knock everyone on their asses.
Adam didn’t disappoint. He took that old song and turned it inside out. Adam may have spent the last years with material that wasn’t worthy of his talent, phoning in lacklustre performances, and putting out mediocre albums but given a great song like this one he shone. It gave Tommy goose bumps when he heard how good Adam could be when he put his fucking heart into something. The audience was on its feet again, knowing they were witnessing something historic as Adam Fucking Lambert took it downtown.
When I was a little boy I had a rag doll
The only doll I’ve ever owned
Now I love you just the way I loved that rag doll
But only now my love has grown
And it gets stronger in every way
And it gets deeper let me say
And it gets higher day by day
Adam directed the verses towards Tommy, being sure to stand right beside him so there was no doubt who he was singing about. It was only as he reached the chorus that Adam went back and joined the rest of the vocalists.
Do I love you my oh my
River deep, mountain high yeah yeah yeah
If I lost you would I cry
Oh how I love you baby, baby, baby, baby
On the next verse Adam was back, smiling playfully at Tommy as he sang. Tommy didn’t think he could remember ever hearing Adam sound so good. He kept most of it in the lower register, watched the pitch, and didn’t let the high notes get away from him. It was restrained but powerful, in no way self-indulgent or over the top. Tommy loosened up enough to get into the performance and sauntered across the stage while he played so that Adam could follow.
When you were a young boy did you have a puppy
That always followed you around
Well I’m gonna be as faithful as that puppy
No I’ll never let you down
Cause it goes on and on like a river flows
And it gets bigger baby and heaven knows
And it gets sweeter baby as it grows
Do I love you my oh my
River deep, mountain high yeah yeah yeah
If I lost you would I cry
Oh how I love you baby, baby, baby, baby
Adam’s performance was a tour de force. He kept it real and heartfelt, right from the soul. The women singing with him watched as he did his verse, knowing they were seeing something important; a demonstration of what a superb singer could do with a great song. The best part for Tommy was that Adam was singing the whole fucking thing to him. Tommy had tears in his eyes when they were done.
The two of them stood arm in arm for a standing ovation that seemed to last forever. Just as the cheering slowed Adam pulled Tommy into a kiss and everyone was hooting again. Tommy became aware of Monte standing beside them and heard him whisper, “Come on, move along now, boys.”
The end of the ceremony was a bit of a blur. They went back to their seats for the final few awards and Tommy was thrilled when Adam won Album of the Year. It was a clean sweep. They all went up again to accept, at Adam’s insistence, and Tommy blushed when instead of thanking the record company and fans once again, Adam turned to Tommy and thanked him for being the best thing that had happened to him this year.
*******************************
They were walking through the lobby with Monte and Isaac and debating whether they should go to Madonna’s after-party for a few minutes or not when Tommy’s phone rang. They exchanged a quick glance and stopped so that Tommy could take it and Adam checked his watch. 11:05 pm, Austin was nothing if not predictable.
Tommy listened to Jane and then said, “Sure, we’re on our way.” He turned to Adam with a helpless look and shrugged. They could both hear Austin’s cries in the background.
They caught up with the guys and Adam told them, “Got to run, Austin’s still up. Guess he’s waiting for us to get home.”
Monte smiled at them. “You’d better go then.”
Tommy was actually relieved to be heading home. The stress of their evening out was catching up to him and now that the adrenaline was settling down he could feel fatigue washing over him. He leaned against Adam a little for support while he called the limo driver and told him to meet them.
In the limo, Tommy yawned widely as he did up his belt. “That was a blast, but I’m ready to go home,” he admitted.
“You too tired?” Adam asked, raising his eye brows in a suggestive look. Neal was out of town for the weekend.
Tommy shook his head. “No way, but if we’d stayed for another hour, I might have been. “Well, thank Christ Austin’s acting up,” Adam laughed.
“Yeah, it’s so much more diplomatic to say ‘Austin’s awake and crying’ than ‘We’re going home to fuck,” Tommy agreed.
“We should have told Isaac that,” Adam smirked, as the limo pulled out into traffic.
Tommy snorted. “He’s way too interested in our sex life as it is.”
He leaned against Adam and sighed as Adam put his arm around him. He took Adam’s hand in his, the one with the ring on it, and wound their fingers together. It had been a good night and he was damn proud of Adam.
“You rocked tonight, baby,” he told him.
“Thanks,” Adam murmured, sounding tired. “So did you.”
********************************
At home, Austin was clinging to Jane tightly, sobbing loudly, and Adam took him, smiling his thanks to Jane, while Tommy went and made Austin’s bottle up. Both Jane and Adam were of the opinion that Austin shouldn’t be having milk before bed now that he had teeth coming in, but Tommy overrode both of them tonight. Most nights he just got water but Grammy night was for celebrating so milk it would be.
Jane left quietly while Adam tried to soothe Austin, carrying him into their bedroom and putting him on the bed and lying down beside him, Tommy following closely behind. Austin didn’t stop crying until Tommy stretched out on the bed on the other side of him and gave him the bottle.
They’d just started this night time ritual in the last couple weeks. Now that Austin was only waking once during the night they’d taken to all going to bed together and alternating nights of getting up for the early morning feed. Now, between 10:00 and 11:00 at night, they’d let Austin fall asleep between them in the bed and then one of them would take him to his room.
Austin sucked his bottle contentedly, eyes fixed on Tommy. Tommy was quiet too, his eyes on Austin. A couple minutes later Tommy turned his head a little to look at Adam and saw him watching the two of them fondly. After a few minutes the sucking slowed and Austins eyes began to close. When his eyes had shut and the bottle had slipped from his slack lips Tommy sat up in bed and picked him up gently.
“Okay, buddy,” he told Austin, “You’re going down.”
Adam leaned over and kissed Austin’s cheek and watched Tommy cradle Austin in his arms, stand up, and carry him off to bed. Tommy was back in a couple minutes, closing the door, and quickly getting out of his clothes. Adam had already undressed and soon Tommy was clambering back onto the bed to join him, unable to stop himself from smiling with anticipation.
There was no one else in the house but the three of them, they were alone. Austin was asleep now, and would sleep until early morning. This was Tommy and Adam's time; when they could just be themselves instead of rock stars, or businessmen, or parents. At night, in bed, before they fell into an exhausted sleep, they could be lovers. Adam was grinning too and he reached for Tommy, pulling him down on top of him.
“God,” he whispered, “I’ve been waiting for this all day.”
“Yeah,” Tommy agreed, as he wedged himself between Adam's legs. “Me too.”
The End - for now