David Cook Breaks His Rules, or How Kris Allen Got His Groove Back (1)
Title David Cook Breaks His Rules, or How Kris Allen Got His Groove Back
Pairing Kris Allen/David Cook, Adam Lmabert/Brad Bell, Anoop Desai/Megan Joy, other pairings implied.
Rating R
Word Count14500 or so
Summary Um Kris works for David in a bar/club. Both of them are snarky and not each other's type. ~things happen. Aggressive!Kris. Inspired by the plaguedbymen prompt AU Kris/David bartending and written for ficforhope
Disclaimer Only the second time I've written this pairing. I know next to nothing about bartending. Not my people. I made ages kind of irrelevant, as Michael Sarver is now older than everyone.
Special thanks to ksl012479 for giving me the beta I've always needed. Seriously. And also to my kradio benches who have been waiting like two months for the finished product.
PART TWO
WEEK ONE
SUNDAY
Rule Number One: NEVER date an employee, no matter what level of attraction.
David Cook had a set of rules, and he had never strayed from them; after running his bar for twelve years and owning it for two, he had broken his rules only once.
He had dated an employee. It had been wonderful and messy, perfect and terrifying. It had ended badly, and David did not want to entertain those sorts of complications again. So begat his rules.
He had inherited the bar from his grandfather, who would probably die again if he walked in. David had taken the watering hole and made it into one of LA's most sought out destinations, a quiet bar/club where anyone could come and enjoy themselves. A Dose of Ambiance was known for two things: tolerance of all types, and its infamous theme nights. It was Sunday, which was Sports Day, at least when it was open, so the crowd was mostly straight and mostly male. David mistook Kris for another customer, because he seemed to fit into that category.
David found out soon enough that categorizing Kris was next to impossible.
David had been watching the man all night, had recognized him from the Friday before.
The man had been friendly to all the wait staff, had left a very nice tip, and hadn't bothered anyone. He had noticed David watching him, winked slowly and smiled. David had been taken aback, because the man had looked; well, as straight as an arrow. But considering the variety of his clientele, David wasn't completely shocked.
The guy wasn't David's type at all, and he had really given up on relationships for the time being. After all, it had been almost six years since his last serious relationship, but considering that disaster, it wasn't surprising David kept his relationships to one night stands and brief steamy affairs. But Friday, David's eyes had kept wandering back to the booth.
And now the guy was back and walking towards the bar. David had an 'I'm not interested remark' prepared, but then the guy tilted his head and said, "You're the owner right?"
David looked at the man in front of him, plaid and scruffy, freshly scrubbed and probably totally inexperienced.
"That's right. How can I help you?"
"Kris Allen," the man said, and held out his hand. "I saw the Help Wanted sign. I did some bartending back in Arkansas, which I'm sure doesn't hold a candle to this, but I'm willing to work hard for little pay. Any pay. I can offer references if necessary."
David took the offered hand. There wasn't anything special in the handshake, except that the fingers were rough like his own, and the hold firm. "A guitar-playing waiter in LA. So original."
Kris rubbed his hands together. "Well, you know, I'd go for stripper, but I'm just not that coordinated."
David laughed again. "So how long did you work as a bartender?"
"About a year in Arkansas. Six months over at Indulgence."
"Indulgence? As in the dance club?"
"Yes."
David took a long look at Kris. "Why did you leave?"
"Because I had gained everything I needed to learn from there. Plus I didn't want to be a dancer and the owner likes his employees to be multi-talented superstars or something."
"Hmmm. Yes, Cowell can be like that."
"Just give me one night. Please."
Kris smiled then, and his whole face changed. David tried hard to maintain his solemn face. Anyone who knew him, really knew him, would say that he was a soft touch. Underneath the scowls and barking orders, David Cook was a pool of goo. David knew it too. So he really wanted to give the kid a chance. Well, kid was relative, but the idea remained the same.
"Fine. One night. You can bus tables for now. Glasses in the black tubs, plates in the brown. Don't piss off Carly; she's the best bartender we have."
Kris smiled again, and if anything it was brighter and warmer and David shook his head. He didn't usually make impulse decisions, but somehow this one felt right. Plus after that smile, how could he feel bad?
David watched him out of the corner of his eye the rest of the night. He was efficient, that was for sure. And he was really polite. Even Carly softened when he asked for a small glass of water, please and smiled at her. David was beginning to think the smile was a weapon, but Kris just didn't know it. Of course, watching Kris move around, David couldn't help but think to himself that if Kris dressed just right, his whole body could be used for good or evil, coordination be damned. David pretended to be observing the restaurant as an excuse for him to shamelessly check Kris out, despite his strict 'no dating employees' policy.
Then the bar got busy and Kris automatically started taking orders as well as bussing tables. He flirted easily with both the men and women. David raised an eyebrow and watched as Kris managed to serve one table, wink at another, then say something to a third that had the whole section laughing at him. David reassessed Kris then, because he didn't seem quite as shy as David took him for.
At the end of the night David told Carly to start the count while Megan, Alli and Kelly did the sweeping. In the back Michael and Matt were closing down the kitchen. David crooked his finger at Kris, and walked to the back, assuming Kris would know to follow him.
"You did a good job tonight. You work hard and don't annoy me. So I'll keep you. At least this week. At the end of the week I'm going to ask you what you've learned, and if I like your answer, I'll keep you on. Sound good?"
Kris nodded. "Um. Do you do this with everyone?"
David laughed. "Ask Adam sometime about week five. Then again, maybe not a good idea. Tomorrow is open mike night, if you're interested. Or you can listen to our lovely staff's vocal stylings along with some of our regular's. We get a pretty mixed crowd so expect bruises on your ass from the pinching."
"Oh," Kris said.
"Do you have a problem with that? Because sometimes customers like to touch. Especially since the wait staff is good looking."
"So I'm going to be objectified?"
"I'm going to take my boss hat off and say not only did that word choice turn me on, but yes. You are hot. Get used to it. Boss hat back on. Go home, get some sleep, I'll see you at three tomorrow. Don't be late."
David paused. "A word of advice?"
"Yeah?"
"Wear tighter clothes. People tip better."
Kris didn't say anything else but nodded. David watched him walk out the door. The kid seemed really nice, but was hard to read. Watching him with customers, Kris seemed fairly self-assured and confident. But when he was alone with David, he turned inward, almost like the kid at prom too shy to ask anyone to dance. It was endearing and frustrating all at once.
"New guy's hot. Please tell me he is straight."
David looked up at Kelly. "Not sure. If he is it definitely isn't 100%."
"Ooooh you like him."
"Not going there again. It's a miracle we all survived the last time."
Kelly laughed. "Yeah, but this kid seems less dramatic than Adam. We'll see how he does tomorrow."
"Yeah."
TUESDAY
Rule Number Two: Flirting is allowed, as long as it is understood it will lead nowhere. Every workplace is greased by its various flirtations, friendships and relations. But work comes first.
It didn't have an official name, although unofficially it was called 'Tranny Tuesday'. David hadn't meant for it to happen, except one week early on there had been a group event, and then they had just kept coming every Tuesday. So David changed the normal seating to an open floor for mingling, booths for snuggling, and tables for those who didn't know which they wanted. It was actually a fairly quiet night, so David tended to stay in the office and do paperwork. Neal was bartending tonight, and he could handle most problems.
"Hey, boss, the new guy, can you tell him to stop flirting and start working?"
David looked up. Kris had done really well on Monday, even accompanying some of the musicians on piano when Matt called in sick. He had flirted with some of the wait staff in the way anyone flirted with coworkers: jokingly and lovingly. They all loved him. David had a feeling Kris got that a lot, because he took it very well when Alli and Megan began to grill him about his personal life.
David had walked away then. It was better he didn't know too much, or else he might begin to care too much, or the warm feeling he got when Kris walked by would begin to grow into something unhealthy. David kept reminding himself of what had happened the last time he had gotten involved with an employee.
Anyway, Kris wasn't his type at all. He didn't go for polite Southern boys who flirted with both sexes and had hands that stretched across the piano and-
He sighed. "Okay Neal, I'm coming."
David stopped in the archway between the back of the house and the bar. He blinked, making sure he was seeing things right. Kris was sitting in someone's lap, chatting animatedly with them about something. The someone was in leather, and accompanied by several others in glittery dresses.
"Cassidy," David said, walking to the table. "Kris."
"Oh hi, David! Sorry, Cassidy was talking to me about this guitar, and then we got onto this jacket I really liked, and I didn't realize he actually designed it! Um," Kris blushed a little. "We used to work together. For a little bit at least. Anyway, I'm going to get back to work now."
"Please do."
David watched Cassidy watch Kris away. Cassidy then looked back at David. "It's been awhile since I've seen you, David."
David grinned. "We said never again unless we were desperate, Cass. You that desperate?"
"No. But I liked you. Thought maybe for old time's sake…"
"Like you couldn't get it with just one crook of your finger."
Cassidy laughed. "True. I like the new guy. I don't remember why we broke up now."
"As does everyone. Wait. You and him? Really?"
"Really. Trust me, worth every minute."
"I don't need to know about that." David wanted to know every detail all of a sudden, and that was a dangerous path.
If he knew about Kris in a bedroom, that could lead to fantasies. Then David would be stuck, because he didn't date employees, and fantasies would only lead to frustration. Yet he wanted to know every detail. Like did Kris close his eyes in that sleepy way when he was being kissed? Did he-
"You like him."
David shook his head. "He's attractive. But no employees."
"When does Adam get back anyway?" Cassidy leaned back in his chair.
"Next week. Gives Kris time to adjust before the crazy train rolls in."
"You know it wouldn't be the same without it."
"No. But less complicated."
"I'm not the one who let my bartender give me a hand job his fifth week here."
"Does everyone know about that?"
"You should've let him break up with you."
"You know, while digging up memories are fun, I should probably go back to crunching numbers. Don't distract my wait staff too much, okay?"
"Yes, sir. As you wish."
David shook his head, watching the scene for a moment, spying Kris dancing to get across the floor, and showing more ability than his aw shucks charm indicated. David looked away. He wondered if sitting in Cassidy's lap would make it into Kris's report for the week. Or if he would mention it at all.
THURSDAY
Rule Number Three: Tell the truth to Neal. He has been there since you started drinking leftover beer in bottles at the tender age of thirteen. He will always understand.
"What do you mean you gave the new guy a day off?"
David sighed. "Everyone has to have one; today might as well be Kris's. Anyway I thought you wanted to work because you missed Monday."
"I do. I heard he played piano. That piano is mine, David," Matt said.
"Matt, I needed an accompanist and you were sick. I'm sorry if your feelings are hurt, but get over it."
"You're just saying that because he's cute."
"Matt."
Matt grinned and winked. "What?"
"Can everyone just leave me alone?"
Matt shrugged and walked out onto the floor.
"You know why everyone is annoying you?"
David turned and looked at Neal. "Please, not you too."
Neal shook his head. "No. I don't give a fuck who you date. Though the new kid seems like a nice guy. But let everyone gush for awhile. I mean you haven't shown genuine interest in anyone in a long time."
"Adam."
"Adam." Neal put his hand on David's shoulder. "Look, Dave, I'm not saying you should do anything you don't want to, but everyone just wants you to be happy. Plus seeing you trip over someone is kind of adorable."
"He's not my type at all."
"No. He's not. That's why I like him. Fucker digs his way into your heart. You are so in trouble if he decides he's interested back."
"Thanks."
"No problem, Dave."
David worked the bar for awhile, thinking on many things. He had been alone for too long. But he hadn't been ready for a relationship. But he could try to let everyone have their fun and not let it bother him. Maybe.
*
SATURDAY
Rule Number Four: When in doubt remember why you made rule number one.
Before David knew it, the week was over, which meant dancing and debauchery, and one cop car constantly sitting outside. It usually didn't resort to that, but Carly's brother was a cop, and David gave them free drinks off duty, so they usually sat outside as a favor. It kept things down to a dull roar most days.
"Um, Kelly said to get your approval before clocking on."
David looked up at the familiar voice, and his mouth went dry. Gone were the loose jeans and plain white t-shirt. Instead, Kris wore tight dark jeans and a black shirt that seemed to shimmer in the low light. He had done something to his hair, and possibly his eyes. Yet underneath it, he still looked like a sweet, lost boy.
David cleared his throat. "Yeah, that's good. If anyone gets too handsy-"
"What if I like handsy?"
"That's your business. But if anyone looks like they need help, you stop what you are doing and help. Except Danny, because he probably deserves it."
"He seems nice."
"That's his problem."
Kris giggled then, and David sighed. Tonight was going to be interesting. He locked the office, and walked onto the floor, so used to feeling the music rather than hearing it he didn't even pause.
Carly and Carrie were at the bar tonight, Carly bitching everyone out and Carrie smiling sweetly to smooth things over. Danny was working the few tables in the back, Kris, Kelly and Megan were on the floor, disappearing between the bodies, sometimes stopping when they waved forward, caught in the beat and the music.
It looked to be a typical Saturday, mixed with familiar faces and new. The noise of the crowd and music drowned out any chance of conversation. But if people wanted that, they could come another night.
David stood back for the most part, the crowd was fairly calm. Megan gave him a look once, but Kris was the first one there, not even yelling at the guy, but somehow convincing him that it was better to drink elsewhere. Megan hugged him and kissed him on the cheek. Kris blushed, or so David thought, it was hard to tell in the light, but Kris's facial expression confirmed the embarrassment.
David had been tempted to let Kris go after this week because of the attraction he felt, but Kris really fit in, and tonight was really proving just how much. David sighed and watched as Kris crossed the floor again, sucking in a breath as he was pulled into the crowd. Then Kris grinned, sweat down his face, leaned his head back and held tight to the person behind him, effortlessly picking up the rhythm. David couldn't tear his eyes away, because surely this wasn't the same man, the unassuming, plaid-wearing…
Then the crowd moved again and Kris was laughing with Alli, and David blinked, wondering if he had imagined it all. Then Kris looked at him steadily, and winked.
David laughed. It had been an interesting night and it had only just begun.
*
David sat in his office chair, his feet reminding him that he should seriously consider wearing better shoes to work. The last of the customers had been packed in cabs, and Carly and Carrie were doing the final check. David rubbed his eyes and looked up.
"All right, Allen, what have you learned this week?"
Kris reached into a pocket and pulled out a notebook.
"You took notes?" David said.
"Yeah. I always have a notebook for lyrics and stuff."
David shook his head. "I think I need a drink to handle you. Would you like anything?"
"Water's fine. I don't drink alcohol."
David turned. "You're a bartender who doesn't drink?"
Kris shrugged. "Well, I do occasionally, but I can't much. Had a rare form of hepatitis that pretty much stopped that. Caught it in Morocco."
"You were in Morocco?"
"Mission trip."
David blinked. A guitar playing, drink slinging, dirty dancing missionary?
"Well, then."
Kris laughed. "It's okay. It wasn't what you think. Most people don't get mission trips anyway."
"No. I'm just trying to figure you out."
"Me too."
David sat back down and nodded. Maybe that was it. Kris Allen was a man in transition, and that was why he confused David. He hoped.
"All right, what did you learn this week?"
Kris cleared his throat.
"One. If I want to get my drinks more efficiently, flirt with Carrie, don't piss off Carly, and look like I'm working hard for Neal. Two: Tuesdays are a very dangerous day to flirt, considering one never knows exactly what sex one is flirting with. Although either is okay, I just like to be sure that if I'm making a booty call I know which way I'm going to be giving and or taking it." \
David almost spit his drink, but Kris calmly continued.
"Three: there is an insane amount of talent here. So singing next Monday is going to be the scariest part of my week. Four: I heard next Saturday is the once a month shirtless Saturday, and that also scares me. Because I am easily embarrassed. Even if it doesn't seem so, I am totally a blusher."
"No. I noticed. It's kind of endearing actually. Don't change that."
Kris cleared his throat, a slight tinge of pink on his cheeks. "Five: If I want gossip, Allison is my go to. Honesty: Kelly. Megan is great for make-up tips, because I don't wear it normally. Danny is actually pretty good on drink knowledge; he would be a great fill-in if any of the others got sick if he would learn how to shut up. Anoop is scary with knowledge about pretty much anything. He is also kind of hot. But not my type. Or orientation. He's dating Megan, you know."
"I know," David said. "Alli told me."
Kris nodded and looked back at his notebook. "Oh. Six. You don't date employees because of a disastrous one with the vacationing bartender, one infamous "Adam". No one will tell me anything yet, but I have a feeling it's going to be a lot less interesting than everyone makes it out to be."
"Trust me. It was every bit as interesting. I broke his heart. He broke mine. I fired him. I rehired him. He found a boyfriend. End of story. What else?"
Kris didn't say anything for a full minute, and then began to read again.
"Seven. I know the days of the week are themed but flexible. Monday is always music, but sometimes its karaoke, sometimes open mike, sometimes local bands. Tuesday is tranny Tuesday, though no one says it aloud. Wednesday is alternate date night, where couples get discounts, and sometimes you have singles nights to encourage them to come back on regular Wednesdays. Thursdays is an open day, but sometimes you let people vote on a theme, which once ended up in everyone dressed up as characters from Lord of the Rings. I bet you were Aragorn."
"You are damned right I was."
Kris stared for a minute, as if picturing David dressed up, and then continued with his list. "Friday is divided between high school football in the fall, wine tastings/special drink features in the winter and spring and family nights in the summer. Saturdays are dance nights, and I earned more money that night than I did in three months at my previous job. And more phone numbers than I care to think about. Sundays are sports days or days you close, depending on how you feel. I was lucky that you decided to be open."
"That's a lot of information for one thing you learned. Anything else?"
Kris nodded. "One more, but it's not work related."
"Really?"
David watched Kris tuck the notebook carefully into his pocket, then walk over to the desk. Kris leaned forward, his cheeks still slightly colored, but his eyes directly on David's.
"You think I'm attractive." Kris's face was too close. Not that David minded, because it was a gorgeous face, but the way Kris's bottom lip hung out just so… David gripped underneath the desk to stop himself from moving forward and just tasting.
"Yes."
"But you don't date employees."
"No."
Kris leaned forward and whispered in David's ear. "But what about sex?"
"What?"
"Sex is definitely not dating, and no one has to know. Think about it."
Then he walked out the door without turning, and David laid a hand in his lap, trying to adjust the uncomfortable tightness in his jeans. He hadn't been expecting that at all.
He shook his head. In one week, Kris Allen had already changed so much. With Adam returning from vacation, this was probably going to be the week from hell. But then that reminded David of why he had made rule number one, and he felt even more determined to get himself under control.
WEEK TWO
SUNDAY
Step One to new Kris Allen: Do things that seem completely out of character as often as possible
Kris leaned into his door, still marveling he had been able to even say something like that without blushing. The last week had been as scary as hell, but a definite step forward in the 'new Kris Allen' plan.
After his break up with both his last girlfriend and a bad choice to tell his best friend he had a crush on him, Kris had moved out to LA to both pursue music and some sort of peace with himself. This job seemed to make him bolder than he ever thought he'd be. The six months at Indulgence had probably helped. And Cassidy. Kris grinned a little, because he still wasn't sure how he was supposed to define that relationship, because they hadn't necessarily been boyfriends. But he had learned many things that still caught him off guard sometimes.
Last night, for instance, actually dancing like that and the look David had been giving him. Kris felt himself blush again, wishing he could permanently be that Kris sometimes, the one who was fully in charge of himself and confident, but he also liked self-conscious Kris, so it was a struggle trying to decide which one to be. Kris mostly went with instinct and it seemed to be working.
He knew flirting with his boss would only lead to trouble, but David was hot, even if not the normal type of guy Kris went for, and he liked Kris. It wasn't a situation Kris had been in before, and it was an opportunity for him to take control of his own destiny for once. Instead of letting things happen to him, he was going to make things happen.
MONDAY
Step Two to new Kris Allen: Be aggressive. Get what you want.
Kris stood on the stage, holding his guitar close. "Well, hello everyone. My name is Kris, and in a few minutes I'll probably be bringing you your beers. But I'm going to sing you something a little different, okay?"
Kris looked straight at David and sang "Hit Me Baby One More Time", David's eyes crinkling as he laughed, the patrons at first silent, then clapping and singing along with the chorus. Kris grinned at the applause, and then stashed his guitar.
"So very subtle, Allen."
Kris turned and looked at David. "If I really wanted to get the point across I think I'll sing "I Wanna Sex You Up" next week."
"I think I would like to see that. Get to work. And watch out, Adam is here tonight. He'll introduce himself."
The way David said "introduce himself" sounded ominous.
"Oh, you must be Kris."
Kris turned again, and a figure-blonde, leather and feathers-suddenly engulfed him and kissed him, a brush of lips that promised more and expected nothing.
"My aren't you cute? Hmmm, you remind me of my boyfriend, except a little more muscular. And a much better singer, but don't tell him that."
"I won't unless I need to blackmail you for something."
The blonde laughed and held out his hand. "Adam. Or if Allison hasn't already told you, resident slut/drama queen and shit stirrer."
Kris shook the offered hand. "Kris. Or if Allison hasn't told you yet, resident bisexual/nice guy and gay catnip. Or so she says."
"Oh definitely. I can definitely see it. Come on, it's my turn to sing, and you don't want to miss that."
Kris nodded and followed him into the main room, grabbing a tray and ignoring Adam's opening remarks, except a loud cheer went up after he named his song. Kris thought he said something like "Crawl Thru Fire" and all the patrons at the actual bar drew back with drinks in hand and Kris was curious. Then frozen. And turned on.
It was like watching a jungle cat prowl, Adam was on stage, striding across the bar, shimmying and his hips, Kris blinked, because his hips, and then his voice, were up and down and inside out and Kris couldn't breathe. Adam winked at him then, and Kris realized he was supposed to be mesmerized, it was all a part of the show. He had known Adam for all of six minutes, and Kris could already see that knowing Adam was probably an adventure.
He looked away, and noticed David watching from the doorway to the back of the house. His eyes were on Adam, and Kris wanted to reach out, because David looked angry or hurt. Kris couldn't place it, but he wanted to fix it. But Kris wasn't in a position to help, so he couldn't.
Adam took an exaggerated bow, hugging Alli before putting on an apron. Kris ignored the stage for awhile, talking with customers, laughing as Adam flirted with him and he flirted back. Adam looked disappointed that Kris wasn't shocked. Kris had spent his first two months in LA living in an apartment above a dance club. Nothing much shocked him anymore.
A familiar voice came on the microphone and Kris looked up. It was David, and he was singing low and insistent, his voice and the guitar was driving forward. The bar shouted as they recognized the song, but Kris stayed still and silent. He had never really liked this type of music, but somehow found himself completely enthralled by it. Maybe it was the way David leaned in, focusing all of his attention on the room. Maybe it was the amount of effort it seemed to take to make it look all so easy.
"Well, well," Adam said in his ear.
"What?" Kris turned.
"You like him."
"David? He's not my type."
Adam made a non committal sound and put a glass on the bar. "Piece of advice for you."
"Yeah?"
"Don't let him fool you with that dating employees crap."
Kris grinned. "Don't worry. I already propositioned him."
Adam stared a moment, then laughed. "I like you. Maybe now I won't be the most interesting thing to happen in the office."
"And what is that?"
"You haven't heard the story about week five?"
Kris shook his head, and Adam smiled. "Well, then, Kristopher, let me tell you…"
*
WEDNESDAY
Step Three to new Kris Allen Don't be afraid of confrontation. Confrontation brought you this far, so embrace your inner asshole.
Kris was beginning to fear it was going to be the end of him. It was a boost to his self-confidence, but he hadn't been prepared for the amount of attention he was getting. There was a group of girls in one corner that he had begged Megan to take care of, because he thought if he went over one more time he would find himself married in the hour.
"Huh. He does kind of look like me."
Kris turned and saw Adam and a shorter man, who he had to admit, shared certain features. He was scrawnier than Kris. Balder too. But they had very similar structures.
"You must be Brad."
"You must be Kris."
"Actually I've decided to change my name. I've always liked Bradley. What do you think?"
Brad laughed. "I like him. You have my permission."
Brad sidled up to the bar, where Carrie cheerfully greeted him.
"Permission?"
Adam looked at Kris. "Well, we have an open relationship. You are now officially on the list of people I'm allowed to cheat with."
"Oh. That's, um, sudden." Kris felt himself blushing.
"You are impossible. How can you be so cute and hot at the same time?"
"well, I mean, I don't, I-I can't get my bearings."
"Don't worry. Brad likes to make snap decisions. Me, not so much. So your virtue is safe."
Kris felt his mouth working. He had no idea what to say to that.
"Allen!"
"Uh-oh, big boss doesn't like it when I harass employees. Think about it Kris, you, me, the bathroom. Trust me. Best experience you'll ever have."
Kris nodded slowly and walked over to David. He had no idea what was going on, either with Adam-Kris couldn't even process what had just happened there-or with David, so he settled for calmly walking across the room and not tripping over anything.
"Is there a reason you are just standing and shooting the shit with Adam?"
Kris shook his head.
"Then get back to work."
Kris bit his tongue, a retort on his lips. David had been riding him hard the last couple of days, and it wasn't fair. Everyone else was really casual around here, and he had to work his butt off. He was tired of it.
He worked the rest of the night without getting a phone number. It was probably because he had a scowl on his face. But he had been working here a week and a half, and he had been doing really well. So he was allowed an off day. Especially when his boss decided to play bad cop. But Kris wasn't going to take it anymore.
"Is there something you wanted?" David said as he entered the office.
"Yeah. I know I've only worked here a week, but I do pretty well, and I don't understand why you've been such an ass the last couple of days."
David looked up. "My bar. I can be an ass any time I want."
"Sure, but you're only an ass to me these days. I want to know what I did."
"Nothing. Yet. But you seem to be spending a lot of your work shift not working. For instance, today you spent ten minutes talking to Adam, another five with Alli, and you seem to have lost the spring in your step. Basically, you've decided to loosen up and play around."
"You mean like the rest of your staff?" Kris paused, and took a chance. "Look, you have three choices: continue like this and I quit and never come back, treat me normally and I work here a long time, or kiss me and just get it the hell out of your system." Kris leaned across the desk, practically in David's face.
"Who says I want to kiss you?" David stared at Kris for what seemed forever. "You aren't my type. Plus you are terribly indecisive, so let's not go there, okay?"
"Well you aren't my type either. You're bossy, hateful and your hair is terrible."
Then David's mouth was on his, and Kris grunted as the corner of the desk dug into his hip, David's hands fisted in his shirt. Kris braced himself, staggering as David let go.
Then there was nothing but breathing for a moment, David's eyes closed tight, his hands uncurling from Kris's shirt. Kris waited for a cue, some sort of sign. Then David let go completely, and his face turned away.
"That wasn't supposed to happen."
Kris sighed. "Maybe it was. I have to get back to work."
He stood carefully and walked out of the room. He had never been one to pursue, but his thoughts kept going back to David. Even when a better opportunity presented itself, David seemed to be the one in his head. It had been a shot in the dark, walking in the bar to apply for a job, but from the moment he had looked into David's eyes, he had felt like he was doing something right for once.
It scared him a little, because he was mostly making it up as he went along. What little he knew about David was written in his little pocket notebook, but Kris figured that leaping like this was a part of the new him. Even if he fell down, it would be fun to fly for a little bit.
*
SATURDAY
Step Four to new Kris Allen: Flirt. You know you can do it.
Kris couldn't believe that Shirtless Saturday was actually real.
He was off for the day, but he had to see for himself that they weren't lying to him. The other employees at the bar weren't above a good practical joke, and Shirtless Saturday seemed like a great joke to him.
But it was real. When he entered the front of the bar, Anoop was collecting shirts from the guys, and Megan was collecting skirts from the girls (they wore just barely there shorts underneath.) They both grinned as Kris peeled off his shirt, and Megan gave him a once over.
"You want my advice, honey, or are you going to keep winging it?"
Kris shrugged. "I think I'll keep winging it. I don't know. Should I keep winging it?"
Megan smiled. "Definitely. But just be careful, okay? David may seem like a hard ass but he's a big pile of goo, really."
Kris nodded and sidled up to the bar, ignoring the appraising looks from both staff and customers.
"What can I-Kristopher Allen," Adam said with a smile, "look at what you've been hiding."
Kris stared back for a moment, mesmerized by freckles. "Well, you know, I do work out."
"I bet. I am going to regret the decision to be monogamous for once in my life, aren't I?"
Kris felt himself redden, glad that the bar was dark and everyone was too busy dancing to pay attention to him. Then he caught sight of David out of the corner of his eye. David was busy talking with a customer.
"He's not my type."
"He's everyone's type," Adam said, and Kris realized he had spoken aloud. "He's funny, smart, has gorgeous eyes, and I won't talk about sex because it will weird me out when you convince him to sleep with you."
"You think I'm going to succeed."
Adam laughed, "You really don't know, do you? I have a break coming up. Hold on."
Kris watched as Adam spoke to David for a minute, and David came to man the bar.
"Allen. Had I known you were going to waste a free night here, I would have scheduled you."
Kris shrugged. "But I'm not an employee today, so-"
"Don't even start."
Kris shrugged, and watched David work for a minute, then caught a wave directed his way. It was Adam, out on the dance floor. Kris raised an eyebrow, and Adam gave him a look that combined impatience, indifference and irritation all at once. Kris reminded himself to try and learn it.
"Adam," Kris said as he walked over.
"Shh." Adam ran a finger down Kris's bare torso. "It's just a dance. Plus, you'll thank me later, I promise."
Kris shivered a moment, and told himself this was a mistake. He stepped forward anyway. "Okay."
Then Adam's hand was on his hip, pulling him closer, and Kris felt someone behind him, the crowd surrounding them, and a familiar voice in his ear.
"I hope you don't mind if I join in," Cassidy purred and Kris shook his head.
He was trying to concentrate on not looking completely stupid, but it wasn't that hard, moving up and down, so he began to focus on the friction, Adam's leg rubbing up against the front of his jeans, Cassidy grinding up behind him, both of them with their hands on him, Cassidy's on his hips, thumbs hooked in between his jeans and Adam's behind his neck, threading into his hair. Kris let go then and just felt for a moment, the beat of the music, the bodies against his own, moving with instinct rather than thought.
It felt good.
Then Adam moved away as the song changed, and nodded. "Yes, definitely going to regret the monogamy. My break is over. If ever you and I are available at the same time, I am taking shameless advantage of you. Let the poor guy go, Cass, I think the boss man might want to speak to him."
It was then Kris realized he had been leaning back into Cassidy, and his back became cold with the sudden onrush of air.
"If Adam doesn't get to you first, count me back in line. I think we gave up on each other too easily." Cassidy grinned and gave Kris a pat on the cheek before going back to the dance floor.
Kris stood there a moment more before he heard his name.
It was David, who motioned for him to come to the back.
"I'm off the clock."
"Doesn't matter. You're still employed here."
Kris rolled his eyes and followed David.
"So any early thoughts on what you've learned this week?" David said as they headed to the office.
"Well, I could recite something really long, but only two of them are important."
"Shoot."
"I found out what happened in week five."
David stopped at his doorway. "Ah."
"Which led me to another important discovery."
"And what is that?"
Kris closed the door behind him. "We both have a thing for blondes."
David looked up. "So now you know the story of Adam."
"Not fully. He told me pretty much the same thing you told me. I don't really want to know. What I want to know is what the hell I'm doing back here."
"You were distracting my staff members."
"You mean I was distracting you."
David turned then, his eyes dark, and pushed Kris into the door, his hands circling Kris's wrists.
"Yes. You were distracting me. Are you happy now?"
"No."
"Damn it, Allen-"
"Why don't you ever call me by my name?" Kris looked straight at David.
He tried to control his breathing, but David was right there his face inches from Kris's and it took all of Kris's self control not to lean forward and just kiss him already.
"Kris," David whispered.
Kris closed his eyes. Sighed. "I didn't come to do this. I promise. And then, you know Adam was being Adam and it’s part of my 'change Kris Allen' campaign to do things I normally wouldn't, and then, well I-"
David kissed him then, catching Kris's words in his mouth and silencing them. Kris opened his eyes in surprise when David pulled away and asked.
"Why would you want to change?"
"Because underneath it all I'm still the stupidly awkward kid from Arkansas who left his girlfriend and ruined the only friendship he had by hitting on his best friend. Because I never got anywhere by being old me. Because I've been an adult for six years and I'm just now figured out what I want. Because I never go for what I want, so I never get it."
"I thought I wasn't your type."
"You aren't."
David nodded. He leaned forward again, his cheek grazing against Kris's, his lips against Kris's ears as he whispered, low and insistent.
"Tell me what you want."
Kris shivered slightly as David's body pressed flush against his own. He had always been a relationship guy, always about love and commitment, but he's been half hard since he walked on to the dance floor, and he hasn't had sex in more time than he would like to remember, and 'new Kris' was more adventurous than him, so he answered by rolling his hips forward and managing to choke out a word.
"You."
David tightened with Kris's movement. "You know what time we close. If you wait about an hour I'll open the door for you. Don't come earlier or I will change my mind."
His hands released Kris's wrists. "Now if I see you dancing with my ex-boyfriends again-"
"You dated Cassidy? He didn't tell me that."
"Well, dating is a relative term with him."
Kris grinned. "Yeah, I know."
"Yeah. He told me. I'd like to hear about that someday."
"Maybe I'll just show you what I got out of it."
Kris took pleasure in David's surprise and walked out the door before David decided that he had made a bad decision. He made sure to roll his eyes at Matt as he left the office, and slammed the door between the bar and the back, hoping his face looked mad or bored or anything but the anticipation he felt showing on his face.
*
Kris stood outside the bar and shivered. It had been exactly one hour, five minutes and a handful of seconds since it closed.
I shouldn't be here. You really like this job and you could be fucking it up.
He was making a booty call. He didn't know how to handle this, whatever it was. He lifted his hand to knock four or five times when the door opened as he felt himself turning.
"You chickening out now?"
David leaned against the door, wearing jeans and a loose flannel shirt. His feet were bare. That's when Kris gave in, because no matter what David wore, it was all a part of a uniform. But the whole stance of David's body, the way his face seemed completely open and relaxed, this was him. This was the real David.
"No," Kris said, and stepped forward to prove his point.
David didn't move until the last moment, letting Kris brush by without a word.
It was weird how empty and quiet it was. Kris walked over and ran his hand along the bar, shining in the muted light.
"Kris."
He turned and David was right there, his eyes so focused, and Kris felt the bar dig into his back as David kissed him. David leaned his forehead against Kris's.
"Cassidy tells me that-"
Kris freed a hand and laid it across David's mouth. "I don't want to talk."
"We can do that too," David said after removing Kris's hand.
Then David put both his hands on the bar behind Kris and kissed him again. Kris grabbed David's hips and pulled him closer, automatically widening his stance to let David step forward. He bit his lip as David began kissing his neck, teeth grazing against Kris's collarbone.
"Wanted to do that since I saw you," David said, and Kris's fingers dug deeper as he tried to move, tried to relieve the tightness in his jeans.
"David," he said, his voice raw.
David looked up and seemed almost bemused. "Not the foreplay type, are we?"
Kris shook his head as David's hand palmed Kris’s cock through his jeans. He jerked involuntarily, letting out a sound that he wasn't too terribly embarrassed about.
"Please. The last two weeks haven't been enough foreplay?" Kris breathed.
David laughed, low and dangerous. "Tell me what you want. You have me; now what are you going to do about it?"
Kris suppressed the urge to scream when David stepped away. Kris pulled him back, searching for the words to say. He went for bold.
"What I want for you to do is lead me to your bedroom and then fuck me. All right?"
David blinked. "Direct. I like that."
David led Kris to the back and up a flight of stairs, pausing only to kiss Kris several times and several places, Kris barely having time to react before they were moving again, and then they were in a bedroom, David's, Kris assumed, and he was against the doorway again, David's mouth against his ear.
"We can do this one of two ways: my way-" David nipped Kris's earlobe, then kissed behind it, his hands unbuttoning Kris's shirt.
Kris sighed as David slid the shirt off. "Or?"
David's hands paused at the button on Kris's jeans. "My way."
Kris laughed. "I guess I'll take your way."
"Good choice."
Then David's mouth was on his again, and his hands, oh, his hands were faster than Kris would have thought, because David was still clothed and he was sitting on the bed naked, David kneeling in front of him.
“Christ, you’re beautiful.”
Kris felt himself blush, and he was finding himself reverting to old Kris, because he didn't know how to react, except to gasp when David lightly stroked him, and then teasingly licked around the head of his cock.
"Oh god, don't stop," he breathed, his hand in David's hair and pulling his head forward.
"Is this what you want?"
"Yes. No. Jesus."
David laughed and pushed Kris to the bed, and stripped off his shirt. His eyes narrowed, and his fingers traced a spot just below Kris's ribs.
"What's this?"
"Surgery. Had a rib removed when I was thirteen."
"That's a bitch."
David was kissing it now, tracing the edges of the scar with his tongue.
Kris couldn’t handle the teasing anymore. He snapped, "What's a bitch is that you keep talking. You’re killing me."
"Patience is a virtue."
"I’m not a saint."
David leaned on one arm and took a long look up and down Kris's body. "Thank God."
Then he sat up and reached into his bureau.
"Finally."
"You sure are mouthy, Allen."
"Isn't that why you like me?"
"I'd like it better if that mouth was put to better use."
Kris raised an eyebrow. "Hard to use it when you are sitting so far-oh."
David leaned forward. "What was that?"
Kris bit David's bottom lip, and then kissed it. "Courtesy says you should warn someone before-"
He arched as David's hand moved again. "Courtesy," he gasped as David's other hand brushed lightly under his balls. "Says you warn someone before sticking a finger in their ass."
David laughed again, his head dropping down. "You know, most guys don't whine as much as you."
"I'm not most guys," Kris managed to let out as David moved his fingers in and out, slowly putting pressure with each stroke.
"I want to watch you come undone," David said, and Kris nodded.
"Just, please, soon."
Kris clenched his hand as David took his time, the whole night in slow motion. Kris tried to move his hips forward, to hurry David along, and was rewarded with a bite to his shoulder.
"My way, remember?"
Kris nodded, biting his lip in frustration, because it was already so much and there was so much more to come. Then David was pressed up against him, face buried in his neck. Kris heard a whine that might have been his own voice as David's hand finally reached his cock again, but it disappeared in a kiss, words and sounds lost for a moment, and then Kris threw his head back as he came between them, David moving a moment longer, crying out into Kris's shoulder.
Kris let out a breath then, trying to stop himself from feeling too much. Sex. This was just sex.
"Your way is too much talking."
David lifted his head. "Are you complaining already?"
"No. Providing constructive criticism." Kris grinned.
"You are impossible."
Then David stood and Kris tilted his head. "Now what?"
David sighed. "I don't know about you, but my way involves showers and cleaning up. Then we nap and start all over again."
"Okay. Maybe I do like your way."
Kris laughed as David pulled him up and into the bathroom.
PART TWO
Pairing Kris Allen/David Cook, Adam Lmabert/Brad Bell, Anoop Desai/Megan Joy, other pairings implied.
Rating R
Word Count14500 or so
Summary Um Kris works for David in a bar/club. Both of them are snarky and not each other's type. ~things happen. Aggressive!Kris. Inspired by the plaguedbymen prompt AU Kris/David bartending and written for ficforhope
Disclaimer Only the second time I've written this pairing. I know next to nothing about bartending. Not my people. I made ages kind of irrelevant, as Michael Sarver is now older than everyone.
Special thanks to ksl012479 for giving me the beta I've always needed. Seriously. And also to my kradio benches who have been waiting like two months for the finished product.
PART TWO
WEEK ONE
SUNDAY
Rule Number One: NEVER date an employee, no matter what level of attraction.
David Cook had a set of rules, and he had never strayed from them; after running his bar for twelve years and owning it for two, he had broken his rules only once.
He had dated an employee. It had been wonderful and messy, perfect and terrifying. It had ended badly, and David did not want to entertain those sorts of complications again. So begat his rules.
He had inherited the bar from his grandfather, who would probably die again if he walked in. David had taken the watering hole and made it into one of LA's most sought out destinations, a quiet bar/club where anyone could come and enjoy themselves. A Dose of Ambiance was known for two things: tolerance of all types, and its infamous theme nights. It was Sunday, which was Sports Day, at least when it was open, so the crowd was mostly straight and mostly male. David mistook Kris for another customer, because he seemed to fit into that category.
David found out soon enough that categorizing Kris was next to impossible.
David had been watching the man all night, had recognized him from the Friday before.
The man had been friendly to all the wait staff, had left a very nice tip, and hadn't bothered anyone. He had noticed David watching him, winked slowly and smiled. David had been taken aback, because the man had looked; well, as straight as an arrow. But considering the variety of his clientele, David wasn't completely shocked.
The guy wasn't David's type at all, and he had really given up on relationships for the time being. After all, it had been almost six years since his last serious relationship, but considering that disaster, it wasn't surprising David kept his relationships to one night stands and brief steamy affairs. But Friday, David's eyes had kept wandering back to the booth.
And now the guy was back and walking towards the bar. David had an 'I'm not interested remark' prepared, but then the guy tilted his head and said, "You're the owner right?"
David looked at the man in front of him, plaid and scruffy, freshly scrubbed and probably totally inexperienced.
"That's right. How can I help you?"
"Kris Allen," the man said, and held out his hand. "I saw the Help Wanted sign. I did some bartending back in Arkansas, which I'm sure doesn't hold a candle to this, but I'm willing to work hard for little pay. Any pay. I can offer references if necessary."
David took the offered hand. There wasn't anything special in the handshake, except that the fingers were rough like his own, and the hold firm. "A guitar-playing waiter in LA. So original."
Kris rubbed his hands together. "Well, you know, I'd go for stripper, but I'm just not that coordinated."
David laughed again. "So how long did you work as a bartender?"
"About a year in Arkansas. Six months over at Indulgence."
"Indulgence? As in the dance club?"
"Yes."
David took a long look at Kris. "Why did you leave?"
"Because I had gained everything I needed to learn from there. Plus I didn't want to be a dancer and the owner likes his employees to be multi-talented superstars or something."
"Hmmm. Yes, Cowell can be like that."
"Just give me one night. Please."
Kris smiled then, and his whole face changed. David tried hard to maintain his solemn face. Anyone who knew him, really knew him, would say that he was a soft touch. Underneath the scowls and barking orders, David Cook was a pool of goo. David knew it too. So he really wanted to give the kid a chance. Well, kid was relative, but the idea remained the same.
"Fine. One night. You can bus tables for now. Glasses in the black tubs, plates in the brown. Don't piss off Carly; she's the best bartender we have."
Kris smiled again, and if anything it was brighter and warmer and David shook his head. He didn't usually make impulse decisions, but somehow this one felt right. Plus after that smile, how could he feel bad?
David watched him out of the corner of his eye the rest of the night. He was efficient, that was for sure. And he was really polite. Even Carly softened when he asked for a small glass of water, please and smiled at her. David was beginning to think the smile was a weapon, but Kris just didn't know it. Of course, watching Kris move around, David couldn't help but think to himself that if Kris dressed just right, his whole body could be used for good or evil, coordination be damned. David pretended to be observing the restaurant as an excuse for him to shamelessly check Kris out, despite his strict 'no dating employees' policy.
Then the bar got busy and Kris automatically started taking orders as well as bussing tables. He flirted easily with both the men and women. David raised an eyebrow and watched as Kris managed to serve one table, wink at another, then say something to a third that had the whole section laughing at him. David reassessed Kris then, because he didn't seem quite as shy as David took him for.
At the end of the night David told Carly to start the count while Megan, Alli and Kelly did the sweeping. In the back Michael and Matt were closing down the kitchen. David crooked his finger at Kris, and walked to the back, assuming Kris would know to follow him.
"You did a good job tonight. You work hard and don't annoy me. So I'll keep you. At least this week. At the end of the week I'm going to ask you what you've learned, and if I like your answer, I'll keep you on. Sound good?"
Kris nodded. "Um. Do you do this with everyone?"
David laughed. "Ask Adam sometime about week five. Then again, maybe not a good idea. Tomorrow is open mike night, if you're interested. Or you can listen to our lovely staff's vocal stylings along with some of our regular's. We get a pretty mixed crowd so expect bruises on your ass from the pinching."
"Oh," Kris said.
"Do you have a problem with that? Because sometimes customers like to touch. Especially since the wait staff is good looking."
"So I'm going to be objectified?"
"I'm going to take my boss hat off and say not only did that word choice turn me on, but yes. You are hot. Get used to it. Boss hat back on. Go home, get some sleep, I'll see you at three tomorrow. Don't be late."
David paused. "A word of advice?"
"Yeah?"
"Wear tighter clothes. People tip better."
Kris didn't say anything else but nodded. David watched him walk out the door. The kid seemed really nice, but was hard to read. Watching him with customers, Kris seemed fairly self-assured and confident. But when he was alone with David, he turned inward, almost like the kid at prom too shy to ask anyone to dance. It was endearing and frustrating all at once.
"New guy's hot. Please tell me he is straight."
David looked up at Kelly. "Not sure. If he is it definitely isn't 100%."
"Ooooh you like him."
"Not going there again. It's a miracle we all survived the last time."
Kelly laughed. "Yeah, but this kid seems less dramatic than Adam. We'll see how he does tomorrow."
"Yeah."
TUESDAY
Rule Number Two: Flirting is allowed, as long as it is understood it will lead nowhere. Every workplace is greased by its various flirtations, friendships and relations. But work comes first.
It didn't have an official name, although unofficially it was called 'Tranny Tuesday'. David hadn't meant for it to happen, except one week early on there had been a group event, and then they had just kept coming every Tuesday. So David changed the normal seating to an open floor for mingling, booths for snuggling, and tables for those who didn't know which they wanted. It was actually a fairly quiet night, so David tended to stay in the office and do paperwork. Neal was bartending tonight, and he could handle most problems.
"Hey, boss, the new guy, can you tell him to stop flirting and start working?"
David looked up. Kris had done really well on Monday, even accompanying some of the musicians on piano when Matt called in sick. He had flirted with some of the wait staff in the way anyone flirted with coworkers: jokingly and lovingly. They all loved him. David had a feeling Kris got that a lot, because he took it very well when Alli and Megan began to grill him about his personal life.
David had walked away then. It was better he didn't know too much, or else he might begin to care too much, or the warm feeling he got when Kris walked by would begin to grow into something unhealthy. David kept reminding himself of what had happened the last time he had gotten involved with an employee.
Anyway, Kris wasn't his type at all. He didn't go for polite Southern boys who flirted with both sexes and had hands that stretched across the piano and-
He sighed. "Okay Neal, I'm coming."
David stopped in the archway between the back of the house and the bar. He blinked, making sure he was seeing things right. Kris was sitting in someone's lap, chatting animatedly with them about something. The someone was in leather, and accompanied by several others in glittery dresses.
"Cassidy," David said, walking to the table. "Kris."
"Oh hi, David! Sorry, Cassidy was talking to me about this guitar, and then we got onto this jacket I really liked, and I didn't realize he actually designed it! Um," Kris blushed a little. "We used to work together. For a little bit at least. Anyway, I'm going to get back to work now."
"Please do."
David watched Cassidy watch Kris away. Cassidy then looked back at David. "It's been awhile since I've seen you, David."
David grinned. "We said never again unless we were desperate, Cass. You that desperate?"
"No. But I liked you. Thought maybe for old time's sake…"
"Like you couldn't get it with just one crook of your finger."
Cassidy laughed. "True. I like the new guy. I don't remember why we broke up now."
"As does everyone. Wait. You and him? Really?"
"Really. Trust me, worth every minute."
"I don't need to know about that." David wanted to know every detail all of a sudden, and that was a dangerous path.
If he knew about Kris in a bedroom, that could lead to fantasies. Then David would be stuck, because he didn't date employees, and fantasies would only lead to frustration. Yet he wanted to know every detail. Like did Kris close his eyes in that sleepy way when he was being kissed? Did he-
"You like him."
David shook his head. "He's attractive. But no employees."
"When does Adam get back anyway?" Cassidy leaned back in his chair.
"Next week. Gives Kris time to adjust before the crazy train rolls in."
"You know it wouldn't be the same without it."
"No. But less complicated."
"I'm not the one who let my bartender give me a hand job his fifth week here."
"Does everyone know about that?"
"You should've let him break up with you."
"You know, while digging up memories are fun, I should probably go back to crunching numbers. Don't distract my wait staff too much, okay?"
"Yes, sir. As you wish."
David shook his head, watching the scene for a moment, spying Kris dancing to get across the floor, and showing more ability than his aw shucks charm indicated. David looked away. He wondered if sitting in Cassidy's lap would make it into Kris's report for the week. Or if he would mention it at all.
THURSDAY
Rule Number Three: Tell the truth to Neal. He has been there since you started drinking leftover beer in bottles at the tender age of thirteen. He will always understand.
"What do you mean you gave the new guy a day off?"
David sighed. "Everyone has to have one; today might as well be Kris's. Anyway I thought you wanted to work because you missed Monday."
"I do. I heard he played piano. That piano is mine, David," Matt said.
"Matt, I needed an accompanist and you were sick. I'm sorry if your feelings are hurt, but get over it."
"You're just saying that because he's cute."
"Matt."
Matt grinned and winked. "What?"
"Can everyone just leave me alone?"
Matt shrugged and walked out onto the floor.
"You know why everyone is annoying you?"
David turned and looked at Neal. "Please, not you too."
Neal shook his head. "No. I don't give a fuck who you date. Though the new kid seems like a nice guy. But let everyone gush for awhile. I mean you haven't shown genuine interest in anyone in a long time."
"Adam."
"Adam." Neal put his hand on David's shoulder. "Look, Dave, I'm not saying you should do anything you don't want to, but everyone just wants you to be happy. Plus seeing you trip over someone is kind of adorable."
"He's not my type at all."
"No. He's not. That's why I like him. Fucker digs his way into your heart. You are so in trouble if he decides he's interested back."
"Thanks."
"No problem, Dave."
David worked the bar for awhile, thinking on many things. He had been alone for too long. But he hadn't been ready for a relationship. But he could try to let everyone have their fun and not let it bother him. Maybe.
*
SATURDAY
Rule Number Four: When in doubt remember why you made rule number one.
Before David knew it, the week was over, which meant dancing and debauchery, and one cop car constantly sitting outside. It usually didn't resort to that, but Carly's brother was a cop, and David gave them free drinks off duty, so they usually sat outside as a favor. It kept things down to a dull roar most days.
"Um, Kelly said to get your approval before clocking on."
David looked up at the familiar voice, and his mouth went dry. Gone were the loose jeans and plain white t-shirt. Instead, Kris wore tight dark jeans and a black shirt that seemed to shimmer in the low light. He had done something to his hair, and possibly his eyes. Yet underneath it, he still looked like a sweet, lost boy.
David cleared his throat. "Yeah, that's good. If anyone gets too handsy-"
"What if I like handsy?"
"That's your business. But if anyone looks like they need help, you stop what you are doing and help. Except Danny, because he probably deserves it."
"He seems nice."
"That's his problem."
Kris giggled then, and David sighed. Tonight was going to be interesting. He locked the office, and walked onto the floor, so used to feeling the music rather than hearing it he didn't even pause.
Carly and Carrie were at the bar tonight, Carly bitching everyone out and Carrie smiling sweetly to smooth things over. Danny was working the few tables in the back, Kris, Kelly and Megan were on the floor, disappearing between the bodies, sometimes stopping when they waved forward, caught in the beat and the music.
It looked to be a typical Saturday, mixed with familiar faces and new. The noise of the crowd and music drowned out any chance of conversation. But if people wanted that, they could come another night.
David stood back for the most part, the crowd was fairly calm. Megan gave him a look once, but Kris was the first one there, not even yelling at the guy, but somehow convincing him that it was better to drink elsewhere. Megan hugged him and kissed him on the cheek. Kris blushed, or so David thought, it was hard to tell in the light, but Kris's facial expression confirmed the embarrassment.
David had been tempted to let Kris go after this week because of the attraction he felt, but Kris really fit in, and tonight was really proving just how much. David sighed and watched as Kris crossed the floor again, sucking in a breath as he was pulled into the crowd. Then Kris grinned, sweat down his face, leaned his head back and held tight to the person behind him, effortlessly picking up the rhythm. David couldn't tear his eyes away, because surely this wasn't the same man, the unassuming, plaid-wearing…
Then the crowd moved again and Kris was laughing with Alli, and David blinked, wondering if he had imagined it all. Then Kris looked at him steadily, and winked.
David laughed. It had been an interesting night and it had only just begun.
*
David sat in his office chair, his feet reminding him that he should seriously consider wearing better shoes to work. The last of the customers had been packed in cabs, and Carly and Carrie were doing the final check. David rubbed his eyes and looked up.
"All right, Allen, what have you learned this week?"
Kris reached into a pocket and pulled out a notebook.
"You took notes?" David said.
"Yeah. I always have a notebook for lyrics and stuff."
David shook his head. "I think I need a drink to handle you. Would you like anything?"
"Water's fine. I don't drink alcohol."
David turned. "You're a bartender who doesn't drink?"
Kris shrugged. "Well, I do occasionally, but I can't much. Had a rare form of hepatitis that pretty much stopped that. Caught it in Morocco."
"You were in Morocco?"
"Mission trip."
David blinked. A guitar playing, drink slinging, dirty dancing missionary?
"Well, then."
Kris laughed. "It's okay. It wasn't what you think. Most people don't get mission trips anyway."
"No. I'm just trying to figure you out."
"Me too."
David sat back down and nodded. Maybe that was it. Kris Allen was a man in transition, and that was why he confused David. He hoped.
"All right, what did you learn this week?"
Kris cleared his throat.
"One. If I want to get my drinks more efficiently, flirt with Carrie, don't piss off Carly, and look like I'm working hard for Neal. Two: Tuesdays are a very dangerous day to flirt, considering one never knows exactly what sex one is flirting with. Although either is okay, I just like to be sure that if I'm making a booty call I know which way I'm going to be giving and or taking it." \
David almost spit his drink, but Kris calmly continued.
"Three: there is an insane amount of talent here. So singing next Monday is going to be the scariest part of my week. Four: I heard next Saturday is the once a month shirtless Saturday, and that also scares me. Because I am easily embarrassed. Even if it doesn't seem so, I am totally a blusher."
"No. I noticed. It's kind of endearing actually. Don't change that."
Kris cleared his throat, a slight tinge of pink on his cheeks. "Five: If I want gossip, Allison is my go to. Honesty: Kelly. Megan is great for make-up tips, because I don't wear it normally. Danny is actually pretty good on drink knowledge; he would be a great fill-in if any of the others got sick if he would learn how to shut up. Anoop is scary with knowledge about pretty much anything. He is also kind of hot. But not my type. Or orientation. He's dating Megan, you know."
"I know," David said. "Alli told me."
Kris nodded and looked back at his notebook. "Oh. Six. You don't date employees because of a disastrous one with the vacationing bartender, one infamous "Adam". No one will tell me anything yet, but I have a feeling it's going to be a lot less interesting than everyone makes it out to be."
"Trust me. It was every bit as interesting. I broke his heart. He broke mine. I fired him. I rehired him. He found a boyfriend. End of story. What else?"
Kris didn't say anything for a full minute, and then began to read again.
"Seven. I know the days of the week are themed but flexible. Monday is always music, but sometimes its karaoke, sometimes open mike, sometimes local bands. Tuesday is tranny Tuesday, though no one says it aloud. Wednesday is alternate date night, where couples get discounts, and sometimes you have singles nights to encourage them to come back on regular Wednesdays. Thursdays is an open day, but sometimes you let people vote on a theme, which once ended up in everyone dressed up as characters from Lord of the Rings. I bet you were Aragorn."
"You are damned right I was."
Kris stared for a minute, as if picturing David dressed up, and then continued with his list. "Friday is divided between high school football in the fall, wine tastings/special drink features in the winter and spring and family nights in the summer. Saturdays are dance nights, and I earned more money that night than I did in three months at my previous job. And more phone numbers than I care to think about. Sundays are sports days or days you close, depending on how you feel. I was lucky that you decided to be open."
"That's a lot of information for one thing you learned. Anything else?"
Kris nodded. "One more, but it's not work related."
"Really?"
David watched Kris tuck the notebook carefully into his pocket, then walk over to the desk. Kris leaned forward, his cheeks still slightly colored, but his eyes directly on David's.
"You think I'm attractive." Kris's face was too close. Not that David minded, because it was a gorgeous face, but the way Kris's bottom lip hung out just so… David gripped underneath the desk to stop himself from moving forward and just tasting.
"Yes."
"But you don't date employees."
"No."
Kris leaned forward and whispered in David's ear. "But what about sex?"
"What?"
"Sex is definitely not dating, and no one has to know. Think about it."
Then he walked out the door without turning, and David laid a hand in his lap, trying to adjust the uncomfortable tightness in his jeans. He hadn't been expecting that at all.
He shook his head. In one week, Kris Allen had already changed so much. With Adam returning from vacation, this was probably going to be the week from hell. But then that reminded David of why he had made rule number one, and he felt even more determined to get himself under control.
WEEK TWO
SUNDAY
Step One to new Kris Allen: Do things that seem completely out of character as often as possible
Kris leaned into his door, still marveling he had been able to even say something like that without blushing. The last week had been as scary as hell, but a definite step forward in the 'new Kris Allen' plan.
After his break up with both his last girlfriend and a bad choice to tell his best friend he had a crush on him, Kris had moved out to LA to both pursue music and some sort of peace with himself. This job seemed to make him bolder than he ever thought he'd be. The six months at Indulgence had probably helped. And Cassidy. Kris grinned a little, because he still wasn't sure how he was supposed to define that relationship, because they hadn't necessarily been boyfriends. But he had learned many things that still caught him off guard sometimes.
Last night, for instance, actually dancing like that and the look David had been giving him. Kris felt himself blush again, wishing he could permanently be that Kris sometimes, the one who was fully in charge of himself and confident, but he also liked self-conscious Kris, so it was a struggle trying to decide which one to be. Kris mostly went with instinct and it seemed to be working.
He knew flirting with his boss would only lead to trouble, but David was hot, even if not the normal type of guy Kris went for, and he liked Kris. It wasn't a situation Kris had been in before, and it was an opportunity for him to take control of his own destiny for once. Instead of letting things happen to him, he was going to make things happen.
MONDAY
Step Two to new Kris Allen: Be aggressive. Get what you want.
Kris stood on the stage, holding his guitar close. "Well, hello everyone. My name is Kris, and in a few minutes I'll probably be bringing you your beers. But I'm going to sing you something a little different, okay?"
Kris looked straight at David and sang "Hit Me Baby One More Time", David's eyes crinkling as he laughed, the patrons at first silent, then clapping and singing along with the chorus. Kris grinned at the applause, and then stashed his guitar.
"So very subtle, Allen."
Kris turned and looked at David. "If I really wanted to get the point across I think I'll sing "I Wanna Sex You Up" next week."
"I think I would like to see that. Get to work. And watch out, Adam is here tonight. He'll introduce himself."
The way David said "introduce himself" sounded ominous.
"Oh, you must be Kris."
Kris turned again, and a figure-blonde, leather and feathers-suddenly engulfed him and kissed him, a brush of lips that promised more and expected nothing.
"My aren't you cute? Hmmm, you remind me of my boyfriend, except a little more muscular. And a much better singer, but don't tell him that."
"I won't unless I need to blackmail you for something."
The blonde laughed and held out his hand. "Adam. Or if Allison hasn't already told you, resident slut/drama queen and shit stirrer."
Kris shook the offered hand. "Kris. Or if Allison hasn't told you yet, resident bisexual/nice guy and gay catnip. Or so she says."
"Oh definitely. I can definitely see it. Come on, it's my turn to sing, and you don't want to miss that."
Kris nodded and followed him into the main room, grabbing a tray and ignoring Adam's opening remarks, except a loud cheer went up after he named his song. Kris thought he said something like "Crawl Thru Fire" and all the patrons at the actual bar drew back with drinks in hand and Kris was curious. Then frozen. And turned on.
It was like watching a jungle cat prowl, Adam was on stage, striding across the bar, shimmying and his hips, Kris blinked, because his hips, and then his voice, were up and down and inside out and Kris couldn't breathe. Adam winked at him then, and Kris realized he was supposed to be mesmerized, it was all a part of the show. He had known Adam for all of six minutes, and Kris could already see that knowing Adam was probably an adventure.
He looked away, and noticed David watching from the doorway to the back of the house. His eyes were on Adam, and Kris wanted to reach out, because David looked angry or hurt. Kris couldn't place it, but he wanted to fix it. But Kris wasn't in a position to help, so he couldn't.
Adam took an exaggerated bow, hugging Alli before putting on an apron. Kris ignored the stage for awhile, talking with customers, laughing as Adam flirted with him and he flirted back. Adam looked disappointed that Kris wasn't shocked. Kris had spent his first two months in LA living in an apartment above a dance club. Nothing much shocked him anymore.
A familiar voice came on the microphone and Kris looked up. It was David, and he was singing low and insistent, his voice and the guitar was driving forward. The bar shouted as they recognized the song, but Kris stayed still and silent. He had never really liked this type of music, but somehow found himself completely enthralled by it. Maybe it was the way David leaned in, focusing all of his attention on the room. Maybe it was the amount of effort it seemed to take to make it look all so easy.
"Well, well," Adam said in his ear.
"What?" Kris turned.
"You like him."
"David? He's not my type."
Adam made a non committal sound and put a glass on the bar. "Piece of advice for you."
"Yeah?"
"Don't let him fool you with that dating employees crap."
Kris grinned. "Don't worry. I already propositioned him."
Adam stared a moment, then laughed. "I like you. Maybe now I won't be the most interesting thing to happen in the office."
"And what is that?"
"You haven't heard the story about week five?"
Kris shook his head, and Adam smiled. "Well, then, Kristopher, let me tell you…"
*
WEDNESDAY
Step Three to new Kris Allen Don't be afraid of confrontation. Confrontation brought you this far, so embrace your inner asshole.
Kris was beginning to fear it was going to be the end of him. It was a boost to his self-confidence, but he hadn't been prepared for the amount of attention he was getting. There was a group of girls in one corner that he had begged Megan to take care of, because he thought if he went over one more time he would find himself married in the hour.
"Huh. He does kind of look like me."
Kris turned and saw Adam and a shorter man, who he had to admit, shared certain features. He was scrawnier than Kris. Balder too. But they had very similar structures.
"You must be Brad."
"You must be Kris."
"Actually I've decided to change my name. I've always liked Bradley. What do you think?"
Brad laughed. "I like him. You have my permission."
Brad sidled up to the bar, where Carrie cheerfully greeted him.
"Permission?"
Adam looked at Kris. "Well, we have an open relationship. You are now officially on the list of people I'm allowed to cheat with."
"Oh. That's, um, sudden." Kris felt himself blushing.
"You are impossible. How can you be so cute and hot at the same time?"
"well, I mean, I don't, I-I can't get my bearings."
"Don't worry. Brad likes to make snap decisions. Me, not so much. So your virtue is safe."
Kris felt his mouth working. He had no idea what to say to that.
"Allen!"
"Uh-oh, big boss doesn't like it when I harass employees. Think about it Kris, you, me, the bathroom. Trust me. Best experience you'll ever have."
Kris nodded slowly and walked over to David. He had no idea what was going on, either with Adam-Kris couldn't even process what had just happened there-or with David, so he settled for calmly walking across the room and not tripping over anything.
"Is there a reason you are just standing and shooting the shit with Adam?"
Kris shook his head.
"Then get back to work."
Kris bit his tongue, a retort on his lips. David had been riding him hard the last couple of days, and it wasn't fair. Everyone else was really casual around here, and he had to work his butt off. He was tired of it.
He worked the rest of the night without getting a phone number. It was probably because he had a scowl on his face. But he had been working here a week and a half, and he had been doing really well. So he was allowed an off day. Especially when his boss decided to play bad cop. But Kris wasn't going to take it anymore.
"Is there something you wanted?" David said as he entered the office.
"Yeah. I know I've only worked here a week, but I do pretty well, and I don't understand why you've been such an ass the last couple of days."
David looked up. "My bar. I can be an ass any time I want."
"Sure, but you're only an ass to me these days. I want to know what I did."
"Nothing. Yet. But you seem to be spending a lot of your work shift not working. For instance, today you spent ten minutes talking to Adam, another five with Alli, and you seem to have lost the spring in your step. Basically, you've decided to loosen up and play around."
"You mean like the rest of your staff?" Kris paused, and took a chance. "Look, you have three choices: continue like this and I quit and never come back, treat me normally and I work here a long time, or kiss me and just get it the hell out of your system." Kris leaned across the desk, practically in David's face.
"Who says I want to kiss you?" David stared at Kris for what seemed forever. "You aren't my type. Plus you are terribly indecisive, so let's not go there, okay?"
"Well you aren't my type either. You're bossy, hateful and your hair is terrible."
Then David's mouth was on his, and Kris grunted as the corner of the desk dug into his hip, David's hands fisted in his shirt. Kris braced himself, staggering as David let go.
Then there was nothing but breathing for a moment, David's eyes closed tight, his hands uncurling from Kris's shirt. Kris waited for a cue, some sort of sign. Then David let go completely, and his face turned away.
"That wasn't supposed to happen."
Kris sighed. "Maybe it was. I have to get back to work."
He stood carefully and walked out of the room. He had never been one to pursue, but his thoughts kept going back to David. Even when a better opportunity presented itself, David seemed to be the one in his head. It had been a shot in the dark, walking in the bar to apply for a job, but from the moment he had looked into David's eyes, he had felt like he was doing something right for once.
It scared him a little, because he was mostly making it up as he went along. What little he knew about David was written in his little pocket notebook, but Kris figured that leaping like this was a part of the new him. Even if he fell down, it would be fun to fly for a little bit.
*
SATURDAY
Step Four to new Kris Allen: Flirt. You know you can do it.
Kris couldn't believe that Shirtless Saturday was actually real.
He was off for the day, but he had to see for himself that they weren't lying to him. The other employees at the bar weren't above a good practical joke, and Shirtless Saturday seemed like a great joke to him.
But it was real. When he entered the front of the bar, Anoop was collecting shirts from the guys, and Megan was collecting skirts from the girls (they wore just barely there shorts underneath.) They both grinned as Kris peeled off his shirt, and Megan gave him a once over.
"You want my advice, honey, or are you going to keep winging it?"
Kris shrugged. "I think I'll keep winging it. I don't know. Should I keep winging it?"
Megan smiled. "Definitely. But just be careful, okay? David may seem like a hard ass but he's a big pile of goo, really."
Kris nodded and sidled up to the bar, ignoring the appraising looks from both staff and customers.
"What can I-Kristopher Allen," Adam said with a smile, "look at what you've been hiding."
Kris stared back for a moment, mesmerized by freckles. "Well, you know, I do work out."
"I bet. I am going to regret the decision to be monogamous for once in my life, aren't I?"
Kris felt himself redden, glad that the bar was dark and everyone was too busy dancing to pay attention to him. Then he caught sight of David out of the corner of his eye. David was busy talking with a customer.
"He's not my type."
"He's everyone's type," Adam said, and Kris realized he had spoken aloud. "He's funny, smart, has gorgeous eyes, and I won't talk about sex because it will weird me out when you convince him to sleep with you."
"You think I'm going to succeed."
Adam laughed, "You really don't know, do you? I have a break coming up. Hold on."
Kris watched as Adam spoke to David for a minute, and David came to man the bar.
"Allen. Had I known you were going to waste a free night here, I would have scheduled you."
Kris shrugged. "But I'm not an employee today, so-"
"Don't even start."
Kris shrugged, and watched David work for a minute, then caught a wave directed his way. It was Adam, out on the dance floor. Kris raised an eyebrow, and Adam gave him a look that combined impatience, indifference and irritation all at once. Kris reminded himself to try and learn it.
"Adam," Kris said as he walked over.
"Shh." Adam ran a finger down Kris's bare torso. "It's just a dance. Plus, you'll thank me later, I promise."
Kris shivered a moment, and told himself this was a mistake. He stepped forward anyway. "Okay."
Then Adam's hand was on his hip, pulling him closer, and Kris felt someone behind him, the crowd surrounding them, and a familiar voice in his ear.
"I hope you don't mind if I join in," Cassidy purred and Kris shook his head.
He was trying to concentrate on not looking completely stupid, but it wasn't that hard, moving up and down, so he began to focus on the friction, Adam's leg rubbing up against the front of his jeans, Cassidy grinding up behind him, both of them with their hands on him, Cassidy's on his hips, thumbs hooked in between his jeans and Adam's behind his neck, threading into his hair. Kris let go then and just felt for a moment, the beat of the music, the bodies against his own, moving with instinct rather than thought.
It felt good.
Then Adam moved away as the song changed, and nodded. "Yes, definitely going to regret the monogamy. My break is over. If ever you and I are available at the same time, I am taking shameless advantage of you. Let the poor guy go, Cass, I think the boss man might want to speak to him."
It was then Kris realized he had been leaning back into Cassidy, and his back became cold with the sudden onrush of air.
"If Adam doesn't get to you first, count me back in line. I think we gave up on each other too easily." Cassidy grinned and gave Kris a pat on the cheek before going back to the dance floor.
Kris stood there a moment more before he heard his name.
It was David, who motioned for him to come to the back.
"I'm off the clock."
"Doesn't matter. You're still employed here."
Kris rolled his eyes and followed David.
"So any early thoughts on what you've learned this week?" David said as they headed to the office.
"Well, I could recite something really long, but only two of them are important."
"Shoot."
"I found out what happened in week five."
David stopped at his doorway. "Ah."
"Which led me to another important discovery."
"And what is that?"
Kris closed the door behind him. "We both have a thing for blondes."
David looked up. "So now you know the story of Adam."
"Not fully. He told me pretty much the same thing you told me. I don't really want to know. What I want to know is what the hell I'm doing back here."
"You were distracting my staff members."
"You mean I was distracting you."
David turned then, his eyes dark, and pushed Kris into the door, his hands circling Kris's wrists.
"Yes. You were distracting me. Are you happy now?"
"No."
"Damn it, Allen-"
"Why don't you ever call me by my name?" Kris looked straight at David.
He tried to control his breathing, but David was right there his face inches from Kris's and it took all of Kris's self control not to lean forward and just kiss him already.
"Kris," David whispered.
Kris closed his eyes. Sighed. "I didn't come to do this. I promise. And then, you know Adam was being Adam and it’s part of my 'change Kris Allen' campaign to do things I normally wouldn't, and then, well I-"
David kissed him then, catching Kris's words in his mouth and silencing them. Kris opened his eyes in surprise when David pulled away and asked.
"Why would you want to change?"
"Because underneath it all I'm still the stupidly awkward kid from Arkansas who left his girlfriend and ruined the only friendship he had by hitting on his best friend. Because I never got anywhere by being old me. Because I've been an adult for six years and I'm just now figured out what I want. Because I never go for what I want, so I never get it."
"I thought I wasn't your type."
"You aren't."
David nodded. He leaned forward again, his cheek grazing against Kris's, his lips against Kris's ears as he whispered, low and insistent.
"Tell me what you want."
Kris shivered slightly as David's body pressed flush against his own. He had always been a relationship guy, always about love and commitment, but he's been half hard since he walked on to the dance floor, and he hasn't had sex in more time than he would like to remember, and 'new Kris' was more adventurous than him, so he answered by rolling his hips forward and managing to choke out a word.
"You."
David tightened with Kris's movement. "You know what time we close. If you wait about an hour I'll open the door for you. Don't come earlier or I will change my mind."
His hands released Kris's wrists. "Now if I see you dancing with my ex-boyfriends again-"
"You dated Cassidy? He didn't tell me that."
"Well, dating is a relative term with him."
Kris grinned. "Yeah, I know."
"Yeah. He told me. I'd like to hear about that someday."
"Maybe I'll just show you what I got out of it."
Kris took pleasure in David's surprise and walked out the door before David decided that he had made a bad decision. He made sure to roll his eyes at Matt as he left the office, and slammed the door between the bar and the back, hoping his face looked mad or bored or anything but the anticipation he felt showing on his face.
*
Kris stood outside the bar and shivered. It had been exactly one hour, five minutes and a handful of seconds since it closed.
I shouldn't be here. You really like this job and you could be fucking it up.
He was making a booty call. He didn't know how to handle this, whatever it was. He lifted his hand to knock four or five times when the door opened as he felt himself turning.
"You chickening out now?"
David leaned against the door, wearing jeans and a loose flannel shirt. His feet were bare. That's when Kris gave in, because no matter what David wore, it was all a part of a uniform. But the whole stance of David's body, the way his face seemed completely open and relaxed, this was him. This was the real David.
"No," Kris said, and stepped forward to prove his point.
David didn't move until the last moment, letting Kris brush by without a word.
It was weird how empty and quiet it was. Kris walked over and ran his hand along the bar, shining in the muted light.
"Kris."
He turned and David was right there, his eyes so focused, and Kris felt the bar dig into his back as David kissed him. David leaned his forehead against Kris's.
"Cassidy tells me that-"
Kris freed a hand and laid it across David's mouth. "I don't want to talk."
"We can do that too," David said after removing Kris's hand.
Then David put both his hands on the bar behind Kris and kissed him again. Kris grabbed David's hips and pulled him closer, automatically widening his stance to let David step forward. He bit his lip as David began kissing his neck, teeth grazing against Kris's collarbone.
"Wanted to do that since I saw you," David said, and Kris's fingers dug deeper as he tried to move, tried to relieve the tightness in his jeans.
"David," he said, his voice raw.
David looked up and seemed almost bemused. "Not the foreplay type, are we?"
Kris shook his head as David's hand palmed Kris’s cock through his jeans. He jerked involuntarily, letting out a sound that he wasn't too terribly embarrassed about.
"Please. The last two weeks haven't been enough foreplay?" Kris breathed.
David laughed, low and dangerous. "Tell me what you want. You have me; now what are you going to do about it?"
Kris suppressed the urge to scream when David stepped away. Kris pulled him back, searching for the words to say. He went for bold.
"What I want for you to do is lead me to your bedroom and then fuck me. All right?"
David blinked. "Direct. I like that."
David led Kris to the back and up a flight of stairs, pausing only to kiss Kris several times and several places, Kris barely having time to react before they were moving again, and then they were in a bedroom, David's, Kris assumed, and he was against the doorway again, David's mouth against his ear.
"We can do this one of two ways: my way-" David nipped Kris's earlobe, then kissed behind it, his hands unbuttoning Kris's shirt.
Kris sighed as David slid the shirt off. "Or?"
David's hands paused at the button on Kris's jeans. "My way."
Kris laughed. "I guess I'll take your way."
"Good choice."
Then David's mouth was on his again, and his hands, oh, his hands were faster than Kris would have thought, because David was still clothed and he was sitting on the bed naked, David kneeling in front of him.
“Christ, you’re beautiful.”
Kris felt himself blush, and he was finding himself reverting to old Kris, because he didn't know how to react, except to gasp when David lightly stroked him, and then teasingly licked around the head of his cock.
"Oh god, don't stop," he breathed, his hand in David's hair and pulling his head forward.
"Is this what you want?"
"Yes. No. Jesus."
David laughed and pushed Kris to the bed, and stripped off his shirt. His eyes narrowed, and his fingers traced a spot just below Kris's ribs.
"What's this?"
"Surgery. Had a rib removed when I was thirteen."
"That's a bitch."
David was kissing it now, tracing the edges of the scar with his tongue.
Kris couldn’t handle the teasing anymore. He snapped, "What's a bitch is that you keep talking. You’re killing me."
"Patience is a virtue."
"I’m not a saint."
David leaned on one arm and took a long look up and down Kris's body. "Thank God."
Then he sat up and reached into his bureau.
"Finally."
"You sure are mouthy, Allen."
"Isn't that why you like me?"
"I'd like it better if that mouth was put to better use."
Kris raised an eyebrow. "Hard to use it when you are sitting so far-oh."
David leaned forward. "What was that?"
Kris bit David's bottom lip, and then kissed it. "Courtesy says you should warn someone before-"
He arched as David's hand moved again. "Courtesy," he gasped as David's other hand brushed lightly under his balls. "Says you warn someone before sticking a finger in their ass."
David laughed again, his head dropping down. "You know, most guys don't whine as much as you."
"I'm not most guys," Kris managed to let out as David moved his fingers in and out, slowly putting pressure with each stroke.
"I want to watch you come undone," David said, and Kris nodded.
"Just, please, soon."
Kris clenched his hand as David took his time, the whole night in slow motion. Kris tried to move his hips forward, to hurry David along, and was rewarded with a bite to his shoulder.
"My way, remember?"
Kris nodded, biting his lip in frustration, because it was already so much and there was so much more to come. Then David was pressed up against him, face buried in his neck. Kris heard a whine that might have been his own voice as David's hand finally reached his cock again, but it disappeared in a kiss, words and sounds lost for a moment, and then Kris threw his head back as he came between them, David moving a moment longer, crying out into Kris's shoulder.
Kris let out a breath then, trying to stop himself from feeling too much. Sex. This was just sex.
"Your way is too much talking."
David lifted his head. "Are you complaining already?"
"No. Providing constructive criticism." Kris grinned.
"You are impossible."
Then David stood and Kris tilted his head. "Now what?"
David sighed. "I don't know about you, but my way involves showers and cleaning up. Then we nap and start all over again."
"Okay. Maybe I do like your way."
Kris laughed as David pulled him up and into the bathroom.
PART TWO