Date: Mon, 12 Nov 2007 23:12:34 -0800 (PST) From: Kirk Landers Subject: Phases- part 42 & 43 Copyright and Disclaimer: 1. This is a fictional story with fictional characters. 2. No one is to steal this story under any circumstances. 3. This story deals with relationships and not sex, so if you're looking for a story with a lot of sex in it, this isn't the story for you. Hope everyone is doing well. I had written part 44 as a Thanksgiving chapter and since Thanksgiving is next week I wanted to make sure that it was up by then, so this week I'm posting parts 42 and 43 together. Hope you enjoy them! Here's part 42 entitled, 'The Gala.' "THE GALA" The next day, Kurt was eating breakfast at the kitchen table when Leo emerged from Ryan's bedroom refreshed after finally getting a full nights sleep. "Morning," Kurt said pouring Leo a cup of coffee. "Hey," Leo replied, he then looked at the couch and saw Ryan sleeping on it. "Ryan slept out here?" "Yeah," Kurt replied. "Interesting," Leo said. "Why? Where did you think he would sleep?" Kurt asked. "Never mind," Leo replied, deciding he didn't want to let on that he knew Kurt and Ryan were still sleeping together. "Here's a cup of coffee," Kurt said handing it to Leo. "Thanks," Leo replied. "I should give Jesse a call and see how he's doing." "Okay," Kurt replied. "I'm going to be in my room getting ready for work." When Kurt went to his room he thought about last night. ****Last Night**** Ryan and Kurt finished having sex and were laying in bed together kissing. "By the way," Ryan said. "Leo's sleeping next door." "What?!" Kurt asked alarmed, "Why didn't you tell me earlier? Did I make too much noise? What if he heard us?" "I'm sure he didn't," Ryan replied. "He can't know about us," Kurt said. "I know that," Ryan answered, "Relax." "Why is he sleeping in your room?" Kurt asked. "Because he hasn't been getting any sleep at his place because of Mark," Ryan replied. "Oh, so where are you going to sleep?" Kurt asked. "I thought I might sleep here tonight," Ryan replied. "I don't think that's a good idea," Kurt said. "Why not?" Ryan asked. "Ryan, we just have sex," Kurt replied. "We're no longer a couple, therefore that tosses out any sleep overs in each other's rooms." "Well where else am I going to sleep?" Ryan asked. "You can sleep on the couch," Kurt pointed out. "I don't want to sleep on the couch," Ryan said. "It's uncomfortable. Just let me stay here tonight." "What if we wake up tomorrow morning and walk out the bedroom door and run into Leo sitting out in the living room watching you come out of my room half naked?" Kurt asked. "I'll wake up a little earlier and sneak out and then rest on the couch until he gets up," Ryan suggested. "Come on, we can fool around a little more if I sleep here." "All right," Kurt gave in kissing Ryan, "But you have to be on that couch tomorrow morning before Leo gets up." "I will," Ryan promised. ****The Next Morning**** After Kurt finished getting ready for work he went back into the living room. Ryan was now awake and talking to Leo. Leo already talked to Jesse for a bit and found out an abbreviated version of the disaster dinner that Jesse and Mark had with their parents and was now filling Ryan in on the story. "Poor Jesse," Ryan said. "Mark is sure putting a lot of extra stress on him." "I know," Leo sighed, "I really don't like that guy." "Then speak up," Kurt said joining in on the conversation. "You have a right to say if he stays at your place or not." "But it's Jesse's brother," Leo said. "It's not like it's some random house guest." "Yeah, but it's still your and Jesse's place and if Mark is causing trouble then you have the right to tell him to leave," Ryan said. "I can't do that," Leo said. "It's up to Jesse." "You have to be honest with him," Kurt said. "Yeah," Leo said with a smile, "Honesty. That's always a good thing, huh?" "Absolutely," Kurt and Ryan said at the same time. "So you both would be up front and honest about everything?" Leo asked trying to see if he could get the two of them worried that he might know what they have been up to. "Of course," Kurt said. "You've always been honest with me, right Kurt?" Leo asked. "Yeah," Kurt said. "There's not one thing you've kept from me that you felt you should tell me?" Leo asked digging a little more. "Um, not that I can think of," Kurt said starting to avoid eye contact because he could never lie to Leo's face. "All right," Leo said. "Well I should go. I'll call you two later. Don't forget about the gala tonight." "We'll be there," Ryan said as Leo headed out the door. "Oh my God," Kurt panicked once Leo closed the door. "He knows." "He knows what?" Ryan asked. "Leo knows that you and I are having sex," Kurt replied. "No he doesn't," Ryan said. "Yes he does," Kurt replied. "At least he thinks he knows." "How can you be sure?" Ryan asked. "I'm his best friend," Kurt replied. "I can tell." "What do we do?" Ryan asked. "Well, if only thinks he knows then we have to doubt what he's thinking," Kurt replied. "So I have to find a way to get him to re-think what he thinks he knows." "Huh?" Ryan asked confused. "Don't worry about it," Kurt replied. "I'll deal with it tonight, you just go to work and I'll see you tonight at the gala." "Okay," Ryan said giving Kurt a kiss. "Love you," Kurt said instinctively. "Huh?" Ryan asked. "Um, sorry," Kurt replied. "That just came out. Old habits die hard." "Well, if it's any consolation, I lo-" Ryan began, but Kurt cut him off. "Don't finish that sentence," Kurt said. "You and I having sex is complicated enough and with Leo knowing it just makes our situation more complicated." "You're right," Ryan agreed. "I'll talk to you later," Kurt said as he headed out to work. When Leo got back to his place he was surprised that he didn't see anyone passed out in the living room. Mark was sitting on the couch reading the classified section of the newspaper when Leo came in. "Morning," Mark said. "Jesse went to work." "Okay," Leo replied. "No party last night?" "No," Mark said. "I don't think I'm going to be doing that for a while." "Oh yeah?" Leo asked surprised. "Why's that?" "Because I have to make some changes," Mark replied. "And I should start with you because I owe you an apology." "Excuse me?" Leo asked even more shocked. "You and Jesse have been really good to me by letting me stay here," Mark said. "And I'm sorry I took advantage of that." "Wow," Leo said. "That's really nice to hear Mark. Thanks." "You think we can start over? I know you and I got off on the wrong foot," Mark said. "Yeah, I think we can do that," Leo said shaking Mark's hand. "For starters, why don't you come with Jesse and I to the Black and White Charity Gala at the Performing Arts Center. I'm one on the board of the committee in charge of it so I can make sure an extra seat is placed at our table." "Black and White Gala?" Mark asked. "I don't think I have anything to wear to that." "You can borrow something of mine or Jesse's," Leo replied. "What do you say?" "Sounds like a plan," Mark smiled. "Thanks." "Your welcome," Leo said. "Well, I'm going to get washed up and then I'm heading down to the Performing Arts Center to set up. Jesse should be home around four and he can help you pick out something to wear." "All right," Mark replied. "Thanks Leo." "No problem," Leo replied as he headed into the bathroom to wash up. Jesse was in his office when he called up his mom to apologize for last night. "How is Mark?" Helen asked. "I think he's going to start making some changes," Jesse said. "I know last night didn't go the way we wanted it to, but it made Mark realize that he needs to grow up." "I hope so," Helen sighed. "There's nothing harder then seeing one of your kids struggling." "Well you and Dad have done everything you can do," Jesse assured her. "It's up to him now." As the two of them continued talking Ryan stopped by and knocked on the open door to get Jesse's attention. "Mom, I have to go. Ryan is here. I'll talk to you later. Love you," Jesse said before hanging up. "Sorry to interrupt you," Ryan said sitting down in a chair across from Jesse's desk. "It's no problem," Jesse said. "What's up? How's Leo?" "He's fine," Ryan said. "I think he's happy that he was able to get a good night's sleep." "I feel so bad," Jesse sighed. "Jesse, I actually came here to talk to you about Leo," Ryan said. "I don't mean to interfere with your relationship with him, but I just feel that you should know how he's feeling." "I know he's frustrated with Mark being here," Jesse said. "It's worse than that," Ryan said. "What did he say?" Jesse asked curious. "He told me that he's really unhappy," Ryan replied. "He feels like you two are losing one another." Jesse didn't know what to say, he was too shocked to hear that Leo actually told Ryan this stuff. "He misses you and misses feeling like he's important to you," Ryan continued. "He is important to me," Jesse said. "He should know by now that he's the most important person in this world to me." "Then maybe you need to do something to prove it to him," Ryan suggested. "Start planning the wedding with him." "I don't know if I'll have the time to right now with Mark here," Jesse said. "Maybe that's the problem Jesse," Ryan said. "You're focusing too much on Mark and not enough on Leo. I know he's your brother, but if you plan on spending the rest of your life with Leo then you're going to have to let Mark deal with some things on his own while you work on saving your relationship with Leo." Jesse nodded, knowing that Ryan was right. That afternoon after Kurt got off of work he came back to his apartment to get ready for the gala when Ryan came home. "Did you talk to Leo yet?" Ryan asked. "Not yet," Kurt replied. "I'm going to talk to him tonight." "What's going to happen if he knows?" Ryan asked. "Then we'll deal with it," Kurt replied. "How?" Ryan asked. "I don't know," Kurt answered. "But we'll figure it out." "Do you think that we're kidding ourselves?" Ryan asked. "Thinking that we can actually get away with doing this with out getting hurt?" "We are kidding ourselves," Kurt said knowingly. "Then why are we doing it?" Ryan asked. "Because I need you in my life," Kurt replied. Before Kurt started feeling too much he quickly changed the subject, "Now get dressed, because at $500 a ticket for this gala, we are going to show up on time and get our moneys worth." Ryan laughed, "You'd think with Leo being in charge of this gala he would at least be able to get us a discount on the tickets." "It's for charity Ryan," Kurt pointed out. "I don't think getting a discount rate would be very charitable of us. Now get dressed." "Okay," Ryan said heading out of Kurt's room. "By the way, you look really great." Ryan admired the way Kurt looked dressed up in a black and white pinstripe suit. "Thanks," Kurt smiled as Ryan left to go get dressed. Over at Leo and Jesse's place, Jesse was getting dressed and trying to help Mark pick out something to wear. "I'm glad you and Leo came to an understanding with each other," Jesse said. "Yeah," Mark replied. "But I don't know if it's such a good idea for me to go to this thing tonight." "It'll be good for you," Jesse replied. "But this is a very public event," Mark said. "So?" Jesse asked. "I think I should be keeping a lower profile," Mark said. "Why?" Jesse asked. "There are some people who I don't want to know I'm back," Mark replied. "Like who?" Jesse asked. "Just certain people," Mark replied. "Why? What's going on?" Jesse asked. "I really don't want to go into this," Mark replied. "Come on Mark," Jesse said getting frustrated, "Tell me." "I'll deal with it on my own," Mark replied. That idea was tempting to Jesse, it would allow him more time to focus on Leo, but he couldn't, after all, Mark is his brother. "Mark, tell me. After what I've done for you. You owe me." "How many times are you going to throw that in my face?" Mark asked. "You have no idea how bad things got," Jesse said. He then went to his dresser drawer and pulled out a folder that he had hidden under a bunch of magazines. He opened the folder up and took out a mug shot of him taken years ago. He had a look of complete misery on his face in the photo. "Look at what I had to go through for you." "I've said that I'm sorry," Mark said. "It's going to take more than apologies to make up for everything you did," Jesse said. "So tell me what's going on. I can't help you unless you tell me." "I'll tell you later," Mark said. "I promise." "Fine," Jesse sighed, he then handed Mark a black and white suit, "Now go get dressed. We're running late." Mark then hurried to his room to get dressed and Jesse headed into the living room to wait for Mark tossing the folder he was holding on the bed. That night the Black and White gala was in full swing, everyone there was dressed in their best black and white attire. It was by far the most successful event the Gay and Lesbian Center has ever thrown. "You did a great job," Kurt said as him and Ryan approached Leo who was standing near the entrance making sure everyone was being seated at their tables accordingly. "Thanks," Leo replied. "By far better then anything I ever did for the center," Ryan said. "That means a lot Ryan," Leo said giving him a hug. "Have you guys seen Jesse or Mark?" "No," Kurt replied. "Mark's coming?" "I thought you hated him?" Ryan asked. "Him and I came to an understanding earlier today," Leo replied. "I think we got off on the wrong foot." "I'll be right back," Ryan said. "I saw some old co-workers I want to say hi too." Ryan then headed off leaving Leo and Kurt alone. "So Leo," Kurt began, "Did you sleep alright last night?" "Yeah," Leo replied. "Nothing woke you up?" Kurt asked. "I know the walls are kind of thin." "Why? Were you making noise last night?" Leo asked knowing that Kurt knows he knows, but wanting to play along with it a little longer. "No," Kurt covered quickly, "I just wanted to make sure you slept all right." "I did," Leo said. "Thank you so much for your concern." "What are friends for?" Kurt smiled. "Best friends," Leo said. "You know what I love the most about our friendship?" "What's that?" Kurt asked. "The honesty we share with one another," Leo replied. "I know you wouldn't keep anything from me. Right?" "Sure," Kurt said. "And you know, that's really important to friendships," Leo said. "Honesty is really the best thing. It's also good for the soul." "You know," Kurt sighed. "Don't you?" "Yeah," Leo replied, dropping the act, "I saw you and Ryan kissing last night before going into your bedroom." "It's not what it looks like," Kurt said. "Oh really? Because it looks like you two have been having a lot of break-up sex," Leo said. "Okay, it is what it looks like," Kurt replied. "Why did you keep it a secret?" Leo asked. "Because I know you would have told me to stop," Kurt replied. "Which you should," Leo said. "I know, but it's hard," Kurt said. "It's not like other guys I've dated. It's Ryan." "Yeah, he's a great guy, but since you two don't plan on getting back together then you should stop this," Leo said. "But then it would make our break-up real," Kurt said. "What?" Leo asked confused. "Did you know that when Ryan and I broke-up I didn't cry?" Kurt asked. "I didn't even shed one tear over it. We started sleeping together afterwards and I felt okay because even though we weren't together, we still kind of were, you know?" "Yeah," Leo replied. "I felt that since we were still sleeping together I haven't completely lost him," Kurt said. "I didn't have to completely let go." "But you have to," Leo said. "As much as you don't want to, you have to let him go." Leo looked over Kurt's shoulder and saw Jesse and Mark enter the room. "I'm going to go say hi to Jesse and Mark," Leo said giving Kurt a kiss on the cheek, "But do yourself a favor, let him go." Leo gave Kurt's hand a little squeeze as he walked off to greet Jesse and Mark. "Hey guys," Leo said giving Jesse a kiss and Mark a hug. "You both look great." "Thanks babe," Jesse said. "You did an amazing job. I'm so proud of you." "Thank you," Leo replied. "Is there a bar?" Mark asked. "Yeah," Leo pointed across the room, "It's an open bar." "Awesome," Mark said. "I'll see you guys at our table." Mark then walked off across the room when someone grabbed his arm, Mark was shocked to be face to face with the one person he was hoping to avoid, Bryce. Bryce was in his forties, heavy set, he wore Valentino and had an expensive piece of jewelry on each finger. "Hello Mark," Bryce said. "I was shocked to see you come through the door tonight." "Bryce," Mark said shocked, "What are you doing here?" "I'm the richest man in this city Mark," Bryce said. "Do you think there is one black-tie event in this town that I don't go to?" "I was going to call you and tell you I was back," Mark lied, but Bryce saw right through that. "No you weren't," Bryce replied. "You were going to try and hide from me." "No," Mark said quickly. "That's okay," Bryce said. "I understand. You almost got into a hefty bit of trouble on your last job you did with me. It was good you got out of town when you did. Of course, I had enough money to get rid of those charges that were almost brought against you. So you can imagine how proud of you I was when I saw that you set it up so your brother took the fall for you." "I didn't set it up," Mark said. "He took care of it to protect me." "And he did," Bryce said. "So I'm grateful to him. He kept one of my best boys out of jail." "But it almost got him in jail during the process," Mark said. "Well, there's always a little risk involved in what we do," Bryce said. "Not we," Mark said. "I don't do that anymore. I'm trying to get my life in order Bryce." "For now," Bryce said. "But pretty soon you'll realize that your life is past the point of being saved and you'll see that I'm your only option." Bryce patted Mark on the side of his face. "I'll be seeing you soon. Enjoy the party." Bryce then walked away from Mark who realized that he will never escape his past. He quickly went to the bar and got himself a drink to help him relax. Meanwhile, Jesse took Leo outside so they could talk privately. "I missed you last night," Jesse said. "Sorry," Leo replied. "I just needed to get some sleep for once." "I understand," Jesse said. "And I'm sorry that I haven't been giving you the attention you deserve. You've been really great at putting up with Mark." "Well, I think he'll be better from now on," Leo sensed. "Yeah, me too," Jesse said. "Which will give us time to plan our wedding." "Really?" Leo asked smiling. "Yeah," Jesse replied. "We've been engaged for over a month now and haven't gotten to do anything to plan it. I think it's time we do." "Me too," Leo smiled giving Jesse a kiss. "I love you Leo," Jesse said. "You know that, right?" "I'm getting a pretty good idea," Leo replied, "I love you too." Back inside Kurt was sitting down at the table he was assigned to, he would be sitting with Leo, Jesse, Ryan and Mark, but with none of them around he was by himself which gave him time to think about what Leo said to him. He looked across the room and saw Ryan talking to some people he used to work with when he worked at the Gay and Lesbian Center. He was mesmerized by Ryan, the nicest, most caring, most loving, best looking guy he's ever known. The love of his life. The man that he knew he had to let go. Later that night, Leo was giving a speech thanking all 362 guests for coming and supporting the Gay and Lesbian Center. "With all of your support we have so far raised over $180,000 for the Gay and Lesbian Center," Leo said to the sound of everyone in the room applauding. "Later on tonight we will soon be announcing the winners of the silent auction and we will give you all a grand total for how much money was raised for the Center. But you should all give yourselves another round of applause because we couldn't have done it with out you. The center has so many programs planned that will benefit so much from your contribution tonight and we can't thank you enough for all-" "Great job Leo!" Mark screamed out across the room who had been at the open bar all evening. Everyone in the room turned to Mark who was clearly drunk. "You're the man!" Leo smiled nervously, not too sure how to get the attention away from Mark. "I have some stuff I would like to say too!" Mark said as he staggered forward and made his way up the stairs to the podium where Leo was standing. "Mind if I say a few words?" Leo got out of Mark's way, not sure what else to do. "I think we should all give Leo a round of applause for pulling this shin-dig together," Mark said clapping. Everyone else in the room began to applaud as well. Kurt, Ryan, and Jesse exchanged nervous looks to one another. "The Gay and Lesbian Center rocks! I'm not gay, but I totally support the gays. My brother is one. He's actually dating Leo. I couldn't be happier for the two of them." "Maybe you should sit down?" Leo suggested trying to get Mark off the stage. "No, I have stuff to say," Mark said. "Leo and Jesse are awesome. They have taken me in when my own parents didn't even want to deal with me and my drama. And my brother, Jesse is even awesomer...is that even a word? Anyway, he's the best because if it weren't for him I might have gone to jail. How many people would take in someone who got away with manslaughter?" Everyone in the room gasped when they heard Mark say that last sentence. Jesse quickly got up from his seat and went up to get Mark down from the podium. Kurt and Ryan looked on in shock not knowing what to do or say. "Let's get you down from here," Leo said pulling Mark away from the podium. As Mark was dragging his feet he tripped over Leo and the two went flying off the stage into the dessert table knocking the chocolate fountain over and causing cakes to fly everywhere. "Oh God," Jesse said rushing over to them. Ryan and Kurt quickly went over to help them up. "Are you all right, Leo?" Leo got up, covered in dessert and glared at Mark who was laughing, too drunk to care about anything. Leo then looked around the room at all the people who looked on in horror. Fed up, Leo stormed out of the gala, Jesse ran after him as Kurt and Ryan helped Mark up and took him to the bathroom to clean him up. Outside, Leo was walking to his car when Jesse caught up with him. "Baby, I'm so so sorry," Jesse said trying to apologize for his brother. "That was the final straw," Leo said. "I want him out!" "Leo, he has no where else to go," Jesse said. "I don't care!" Leo said. "He ruined everything." "He just got drunk," Jesse said. "I'm sure everyone has already forgotten about it." "How can you downplay what he did?" Leo asked. "He didn't mean to cause a scene," Jesse replied. "Don't be so hard on him." "Of course you take his side," Leo rolled his eyes. "I'm going home." "Leo, don't be like that," Jesse said trying to get Leo to reason with him, but Leo didn't care. He walked to his car and quickly drove off. Inside, Ryan and Kurt were trying to wash Mark's face off, but Mark pushed them off of him. "Leave me alone," Mark said. "I don't even know you guys." "We're friends of Leo and Jesse," Kurt said. "Just leave me alone," Mark said. "I don't want to be around anyone." "Fine," Kurt said. "But just stay in here until Jesse comes to take you home." "Whatever," Mark said laying down on the floor. Kurt and Ryan left the room leaving Mark alone. After a few moments of piece the door opened and Bryce came in. "Made quite a spectacle in there," Bryce laughed. "What do you want?" Mark asked. "I just wanted to see how you were doing," Bryce said, he then took out a few hundred dollar bills and put them in Mark's coat pocket. "You understand now? It's only a matter of time until you realize that I'm the only option you have left." Bryce then walked out of the bathroom leaving Mark alone to feel miserable. That night when Leo got home he stormed into the bedroom to get changed from the dessert covered clothes he was wearing. He paced back and forth in the room still fuming. He then looked on the bed and saw the folder that Jesse left out, he picked it up and opened it and his mouth dropped when he saw the mug shot of Jesse. He then started looking at the other papers and was shocked at what he found out. Later on when Kurt and Ryan got home the two were sitting down on the couch reflecting on the night's events. "Well, Leo did a good job of making it a successful night and Mark did a pretty good job at making it an unforgettable night," Ryan said. "Yeah," Kurt replied. "Very unforgettable." "I hope Leo's okay," Ryan said. "He seemed pretty pissed," Kurt said. "Whatever peace him and Mark had is obviously over," Ryan noted. "Yeah, I don't think that's the only thing that should be over," Kurt replied. "What do you mean?" Ryan asked. "We have to stop sleeping with each other," Kurt replied. Ryan nodded knowing that Kurt was right. "We should be trying to find guys who want the things we want in life," Kurt continued. "Yeah," Ryan sighed. "I guess I just wasn't ready to let you go." "Me neither," Kurt replied. "But, we'll still be roommates, right?" Ryan asked. "We better be more than that," Kurt replied. "Friends." "You're going to be a tough act to follow," Ryan said sincerely. "Back at you," Kurt smiled. "I guess I'm going to go to bed," Ryan said giving Kurt one last kiss. "Good night." "Good night," Kurt replied. Ryan then got up and went to his room. After Ryan closed the door Kurt sat alone thinking about Ryan. It was really over and he knew it and for the first time since they broke up Kurt started to cry. Here's part 43 entitled, 'Starting Over...Yet Again.' "STARTING OVER...YET AGAIN" When Jesse came home from the gala he quickly put a passed out Mark in his bedroom and then went directly to his own bedroom where Leo was sitting on the bed waiting for him. "Leo, I am so sorry about Mark," Jesse apologized. "Why didn't you tell me?" Leo asked holding up the folder with Jesse's mug shot in it and other information that Jesse wanted to keep hidden. "I didn't want anyone to know," Jesse replied. "Jesse, after all the years we've been together, you really weren't going to tell me?" Leo asked. "It's in my past," Jesse said. "Is this what Mark was ranting about at the gala?" Leo asked. "Is this why he got away with manslaughter?" Jesse sighed, knowing he had to tell Leo the truth, "Yes." "So, let me get this straight," Leo said. "You took the blame for something he did and as a result almost went to jail." "Essentially," Jesse replied. "Oh my God," Leo said, "Mark has to go." "What? Leo, I can't just do that. He's my brother," Jesse said. "He killed someone," Leo said. "I don't want him in our home." "It's not as black and white as that," Jesse explained. "It's more complicated." "Then uncomplicate it," Leo said. "What more is there to say?" "I really don't want to get into this," Jesse said. "If you don't tell me, then I'm going," Leo said. "What?" Jesse asked. "You don't mean that." "Jesse, I've tried to be easy going, but I have to put my foot down at some point and this is it," Leo replied. "Now explain to me what's going on." "How much do you know?" Jesse asked. "I know that you got arrested for the death of a ten year-old boy," Leo replied. "It said in the report that the boy was crossing the street when your car hit him." "Yeah," Jesse nodded remembering a painful past. "How did you get the charges dropped?" Leo asked. "They determined that my car was stolen," Jesse replied. "They never found out that the person who took it was Mark." "Jesse," Leo sighed. "Mark killed a little kid?" "Yeah," Jesse replied. "He didn't mean to. It was an accident." "And you never turned him in to the police?" Leo asked. "How could I?" Jesse asked. "He's my brother." "He's also a killer," Leo replied. "Leo, I would think you of all people would understand someone with a wild past," Jesse said. "Yeah, well my wild past included parties and alcohol," Leo said. "Not running over ten year-old boys." "It isn't as simple as that," Jesse said. "He did it on accident. He was involved in some bad stuff then." "What stuff?" Leo asked. "I still don't know," Jesse replied. "All I know is that he was involved with some people he shouldn't have been involved with." "What? Like a gang?" Leo asked. "I don't know," Jesse replied. "How could you cover up a crime he committed and not know what he was involved in?" Leo asked. "Leo he's my kid brother," Jesse said. "It's my job to protect him." "Fine," Leo said. "But make sure he stays the hell away from me. I want nothing to do with him." "Fair enough," Jesse said giving Leo a kiss, "Thank you." "Where is he?" Leo asked. "He's in his room, passed out," Jesse replied. "He better stay there because if I see him at all within the next few hours I might kill him for ruining the gala," Leo said. "I know, I'm so sorry," Jesse replied. "I just want to go to sleep and forget tonight ever happened," Leo said as he headed to the bathroom to wash up and get ready for bed. "Wait, Leo," Jesse said before Leo left the room. "What?" Leo asked. "You can't tell anyone about this," Jesse said. "Not even Kurt or Ryan. No one can know." "Okay," Leo agreed. The next day Kurt picked up Leo and the two went for breakfast to talk. "How are you doing?" Kurt asked as they sat down at their table at the diner. "Still pissed," Leo replied. "I'm humiliated. That gala was my big showcase to the center and it was ruined." "It seems like the donations and silent auction earned quite a bit of money at least," Kurt said trying to look on the bright side. "I hope so. If we made enough then hopefully my job is safe at least," Leo said. "Well mine isn't," Kurt said. "What are you talking about?" Leo asked. "I was up all last night thinking," Kurt replied. "And I decided to quit my job." "Whoa, what?" Leo asked. "I need to start taking charge of my life," Kurt replied. "Working at the magazine is fine, the pay is great, but it's not what I want to do. I want to write books, not write articles on clothes and celebrities." "What brought about this change in attitude?" Leo asked. "You catching Ryan and I having sex," Kurt replied. "Him and I talked and decided we had to stop and had to let each other go." "Good for you," Leo smiled. "You okay?" "I will be," Kurt replied. "It's no going to be easy getting over him, but it's for the best." "It is," Leo said. "You'll meet a great guy and so will he." "Yeah," Kurt replied. "I'm glad to hear at least your personal life is getting sorted out," Leo said. "Speaking of which," Kurt said. "What was Mark talking about when he said he got away with manslaughter?" "I don't know," Leo lied. "It probably was just him being drunk and making stuff up." "You think?" Kurt asked. "It seems like there's some story there." "I doubt it," Leo said. "Mark always makes stuff up when he's drunk." "Oh, okay," Kurt shrugged. "Thought there might be some good dirt there." "Nope," Leo replied feeling guilty for having to lie to Kurt's face. "So what should we get to eat?" Later that day, Ryan was at work when his phone rang. "Hello?" Ryan answered. "Is this Ryan Sanchez?" a male voice asked. "Yes," Ryan replied. "How can I help you?" "This is-" the male replied, but soon stopped himself, "I'm sorry. This was a mistake." Before Ryan could say anything the caller hung up on him. Meanwhile, when Mark finally woke up he had a major headache and an angry brother sitting in the bedroom waiting for him to get up. "You made an idiot out of yourself last night," Jesse said handing Mark some aspirin and a glass of water. "I'm sorry," Mark replied. "What happened?" Jesse asked. "It's a long story," Mark replied. "Well you better start explaining," Jesse said. "I really don't want to get into it," Mark said. "Tough," Jesse replied. "Listen Mark, if you're going to stay here you have to be straight with me. What is going on?" "It's nothing," Mark replied. "I can take care of it." "Like you did last night?" Jesse asked. "That sure went well." "I'm sorry," Mark replied. "I'll go apologize to Leo later." "Don't bother," Jesse said. "He's too pissed right now to listen to any sort of apology." "Whatever," Mark said getting up from bed. "Mark, you have to talk to me," Jesse said. "Not now Jesse," Mark sighed. "Just let me take care of things on my own." "No," Jesse replied. "I'm your brother, you have to let me help you." "No I don't," Mark replied. "Last time you did you almost went to jail. I won't let anything like that happen again." "Mark," Jesse said, wanting to get through to him, but Mark wouldn't have it. He got up from his bed and left the apartment. Later that day, Kurt was in Claudia's office having just submitted his letter of resignation. "Is it more money?" Claudia asked. "No," Kurt replied. "You paid me more than enough." "Then what is it?" Claudia asked clearly upset that she's losing one of her best writers. "Claudia, this isn't my dream," Kurt replied. "Kurt, I told you before that you were in the running for a promotion," Claudia said. "If this is you playing hardball then you win, okay? You've got the promotion." "No, it's not about the promotion," Kurt said, shocked to see how easy it was to trump Claudia, who he always viewed as the toughest person he's ever known. "It's about me. I want to write books, I want to write about things that are important to me." "Is this really your final decision?" Claudia asked. "Yes," Kurt replied. "I've loved working here and I appreciate everything you've done Claudia, but this is something I need to do for me." "Then let me say one thing," Claudia said, Kurt cringed not sure if she was going to bitch him out. Instead, Claudia extended her hand to Kurt. "I wish you the best of luck." Kurt shook Claudia's hand, surprised by her kindness. "Thank you Claudia," Kurt said. "You're a great writer and I know you'll do great things," Claudia said and for the first time showed the smallest hint of a smile. "Now get out of here." Kurt then went and cleaned out his office and then left the building. As he walked to his car he felt happy, excited, and fear all at once. As he was getting into his car his cell started ringing. "Hello?" Kurt answered. "Kurt, it's me," his mom, Monica, replied. "Hey mom," Kurt said, "What's up?" "Can you come pick me up?" Monica asked. "Yeah, sure," Kurt replied. "You at home?" "No," Monica answered, "I'm at the hospital." "What?" Kurt asked worried, "What happened?" "It was silly," Monica replied. "I broke my arm." "Oh my God," Kurt said. "Are you okay?" "I will be if you come get me," Monica answered. "I'm on my way Mom," Kurt said as he hurried off to the hospital. Meanwhile, Leo was in his office when his boss, Debra, came in. Debra was an older, heavyset woman, and her usual cheerful self was instead replaced by an upset and annoyed demeanor. "Leo, we need to talk," Debra said closing the door to give the two of them some privacy. "I know," Leo said. "I am so sorry about last night. I am completely humiliated." "What was that?" Debra asked. "Last night had some of the most important people in the city attending and it turned into a frat party." "I know and I feel horrible," Leo said. "And you were in charge of the event and one of your own guest was responsible for the debacle," Debra scolded. "I know," Leo sighed truly upset. "I should fire you," Debra said. "Oh please don't," Leo begged. "I should, but I won't," Debra said. "Luckily for you one of your guest provided a very generous donation." "What?" Leo asked confused. "Yes," Debra said. "Your guest Kurt Parker." "Really?" Leo asked shocked. "Yes," Debra said. "He also paid for the damage that your other guest did." "He did?" Leo asked again shocked. He didn't know Kurt had that much money. "Your lucky to have such a good friend," Debra said leaving his office. "Yes," Leo said smiling to himself, "Yes I am." Across town, Mark was wondering around when he ended up in front of the office building that Bryce Roberts owned. It was the tallest building in the city and a Rolls Royce waiting out front to take Bryce wherever he wanted. Mark knew he had to talk to him so he went inside and up to Bryce's office. "Why did I have a feeling I'd see you today?" Bryce asked as his secretary let Mark into his office. "You put on quite a show last night." "Bryce, I need you to stay out of my life," Mark said. "Oh Marky, you know it doesn't work that way," Bryce said. "I know you tried to get away from me by going to the east coast, but you had to know it was only a matter of time before you came back." "I may be back, but I won't get involved with you again," Mark said. "Marky, whether you like it or not, I still own you," Bryce said. "And if I want you to do another job for me, you'll do it. You know what happens when people try to run out on me, they disappear." "Don't threaten me," Mark said boldly. "I came here to tell you that I was out." "Is that so?" Bryce asked getting up from his desk and walking over to Mark. "Yes," Mark replied. Bryce then picked up a cane he had sitting next to his desk and slammed it against Mark's back knocking him to the ground. He then hit him a few more times causing Mark to cry out in pain. After he was done he leaned over Mark's body and whispered in his ear. "You think that was bad? Just imagine how much worse it will be if you try to leave," Bryce said. "Now, are we clear?" Mark was silent for a moment, and it was a moment to long because Bryce hit him again. "Yes!" Mark cried out. "Good," Bryce said walking back to his desk and sitting down. "Now sit down, because there is a job I have for you." "What is it?" Mark asked as he crawled to a nearby chair for him to sit in. "I have a package I need you to deliver to this address," Bryce said holding up a piece of paper. "The man you'll be speaking to is Terrence Brown. In return he should be giving you twenty grand. If he doesn't give you the twenty grand then you know what to do." Bryce then handed Mark the package, the address and a gun. "Fine," Mark sighed standing up and limping to the door. "Oh and Marky," Bryce said. "How's Nancy doing? How's the baby?" "Baby?" Mark asked confused. "You don't know?" Bryce laughed, "Nancy has a daughter." "She does? When did this happen?" Mark asked. "About nine months after you left town," Bryce replied clearly enjoying the revelation he was giving Mark. "Oh my God," Mark said shocked. "Maybe you should stop by her place after you drop off that package," Bryce said. Mark didn't say anything, he quietly left the office. Later, Kurt finally arrived to the hospital and went to the front desk to ask about his mother. "Excuse me," Kurt asked the nurse at the desk, "I'm here to pick up my mother, Monica Parker." "Let me see here," the nurse replied looking through some papers, "Oh yes, she'll be out in a bit. The doctor just wanted to check a few things before she left. If you'll just have a seat she'll be out shortly." "Thank you," Kurt replied. He then went to the vending machine near the waiting room to get a snack while he waited. He put some money in and selected the chips that he wanted, but as the chips were coming out they got stuck in the machine. "Oh come on," Kurt mumbled to himself hitting the machine. The chips didn't fall to the slot for him to get them, so he hit the machine some more. "Wow, what did that machine ever do to you?" a patient in a wheel chair asked. "It's my bag of chips," Kurt replied. "They're stuck." "Oh, there's a little trick," the patient said, he then wheeled himself to the side of the machine and pounded three times causing the chips to fall to the open slot for Kurt to get them. "Impressive," Kurt smiled noticing how cute the patient was, he looked to be around Kurt's age, a little thin and a little pale, but still had that twinkle in his green eyes and had a full head of sandy blonde hair. "You checking in or checking out?" the patient asked. "Neither," Kurt replied. "I'm here to pick up my mom. She broke her arm." "Oh, I hope she'll be all right," the patient said. "I'm sure she'll be fine," Kurt replied opening the bag of chips and offering some to the patient, "Want some?" "Sure," the patient replied taking some chips out of the bag, "I did help you get them after all." "That you did," Kurt said. "My name's Kurt." "Josh," he said shaking Kurt's hand. "Nice to meet you." "You too," Kurt said. "So what are you in for?" "Vacation," Josh said jokingly, "Thought a weekend get-a-way to the hospital was just what I needed. I have a massage in an hour and then going to take a yoga class this afternoon." "The man has a sense of humor," Kurt smiled. "Don't come across that much in the hospital." "Yeah, everyone here is so dull," Josh said. "That's why I thought I'd stop by and brighten the place up." "You been here long?" Kurt asked. "About three weeks," Josh replied. "Does that seem long?" "That seems like an eternity to be at a hospital," Kurt said. "I guess that's what you get when you have cancer," Josh said. "You have cancer?" Kurt asked. "I'm sorry." "Don't be," Josh said. "I've had it for a long time. I'm used to it." "Still though," Kurt said. "That can't be fun." "Are you kidding? It's a blast," Josh replied. "You have no idea how many traffic tickets that's gotten me out of. I would get pulled over for speeding and would say to the cop, 'Sorry officer, I was in a rush to the hospital. I have cancer.' They let me go and give me there deepest sympathies." "So you milk it for all it's worth, huh?" Kurt laughed. "I have to make cancer good for something," Josh replied. "Why not use it to get what I want?" "Good point," Kurt said. "So what are you doing wheeling yourself around? Shouldn't you be in your room in bed?" "I should be," Josh replied. "But then I wouldn't have had the opportunity to meet an attractive man." "Oh me?" Kurt asked surprised by how forward Josh was being. "That's another good thing about having cancer," Josh said. "I can be forward with guys I think are cute and if they end up being straight they can't punch me or anything because I have cancer and they'd feel bad." "You have it all figured out," Kurt laughed. "Well, I'm not straight." "Score one point for me," Josh said. "You mind wheeling me to my room so we can talk a little more or do you have to get to your mom?" "She's still with the doctor," Kurt replied. "So I guess I can spare a few minutes." "Awesome," Josh said as Kurt began to push Josh's wheelchair down the hall. That afternoon Mark went to the address that Bryce gave him and met with Terrence Brown. The house Terrence lived in was in a run-down neighborhood in East LA. The front yard was covered with weeds and trash. Mark was used to houses like this, he often went to them when doing jobs for Bryce. They were also very dangerous neighborhoods, gangs often were in the area and they were even more dangerous when it was a neighborhood that Bryce did business. "You here for Bryce?" Terrence asked opening up his front door. Terrence was a man of big stature, very intimidating, dark eyes, covered in tattoos. "Yeah," Mark replied holding up the package from Bryce. "You got the money?" "Right here," Terrence said picking up a briefcase and opening it up to show Mark the twenty grand. He handed the briefcase to Mark and in return Mark gave him the package. "Give a message to Bryce for me." "What?" Mark asked. "I have a deal working up with some guys across town," Terrence said. "They're going to supply me with what I need for half the cost of what Bryce is costing me. If he still wants my business, he's going to half to lower it to ten grand." "I'll give him the message," Mark replied walking away. As soon as Mark got in his car he drove off back to Bryce's office and gave him the briefcase of money. "You did good," Bryce said handing Mark a thousand dollars. "Terrence wants you to cut the price in half," Mark said. "Not going to happen," Bryce said. "Then he's going to go to some guys he knows across town," Mark replied. "Then I guess my boys are going to be paying him a visit tonight," Bryce said simply. "Get out of here." "With pleasure," Mark said quietly leaving Bryce's office. Mark then went straight to Nancy's place. He had to see his ex-girlfriend and the baby that might be his. When Kurt parked his car at the apartment complex he was walking to the door to the building when he saw a man pacing back and forth. The man seemed to be in his forties, good looking. Kurt didn't know how to place it, but there was something familiar about the way the man looked. He was wearing a Dolce suit and Kurt was sure he spotted a Rolex underneath the jacket sleeve on his wrist. When he saw the man's face he couldn't help but notice that there was a little sadness in his face. "Are you locked out?" Kurt asked as he unlocked the door to the building. "No," the man replied. "I don't even know why I'm here actually." Kurt wasn't sure how to take that comment, was the man crazy? "Is everything all right?" Kurt asked. "Yeah, well, sort of, I don't know," the man answered. Again, Kurt wasn't sure if the guy was sane or not. "Do you live here?" Kurt asked. "Do you know many people here?" the man asked. "Not really," Kurt replied. "It's LA, we don't socialize with neighbors." Kurt gave a little laugh hoping to ease some of the tension and help the guy relax a bit. "Oh, that's too bad," the man said. "Are you looking for someone?" Kurt asked. "Yes, but I'm afraid to see him," the man replied. "Who are you looking for?" Kurt asked. "I'm looking for a Ryan Sanchez," the man answered, "You wouldn't know him by any chance, would you?" "Ryan?" Kurt asked. "Why are you looking for Ryan?" "So you know him?" the man asked hopeful. "Maybe," Kurt said being protective of Ryan, "Why do you want to know?" "My name is Gordon," the man said. "Okay," Kurt replied. "That doesn't really answer why you're looking for Ryan." "My name's Gordon Sanchez," Gordon said. "Sanchez?" Kurt asked. "Yeah," Gordon replied. "Wait, so does that make you his-" Kurt began, but Gordon cut him off. "Father?" Gordon asked. "Yes. I'm Ryan's father." Over at Jesse and Leo's place, Leo came home from work and was surprised to see a candlelit dinner at the kitchen table with Jesse sitting and waiting. "Good, you're home," Jesse said getting up and greeting Leo with a kiss. "What's going on?" Leo asked. "Well, Mark isn't here and we have the place to ourselves," Jesse replied. "I thought we'd celebrate with a nice dinner and maybe some fun in the bedroom." "You think that a candlelit dinner is going to make up for what Mark did?" Leo asked. "Leo, come on," Jesse said. "This isn't about Mark. Tonight is about you and me, and me wanting to show you that you are still the most important person in my life." "Really?" Leo asked. "Really," Jesse replied. "Sit down, I picked up some crab cakes from that seafood restaurant downtown that you like." "You're amazing," Leo said giving Jesse a kiss. "Thank you." "Of course," Jesse replied, he then poured Leo a glass of sparkling cider. "And maybe later tonight we can talk about our wedding." "Sounds perfect," Leo said. Before they could begin their dinner, Mark came barging into the apartment clearly upset. "Everything all right?" Jesse asked. "No," Mark replied. "Not at all. You know when you offered to help me and I said no? Well, I need you Jesse." "What's wrong?" Jesse asked. "I just found out that I have a daughter," Mark said before going into his bedroom. "Oh my God," Jesse said in disbelief. "So I guess the plans changed for tonight," Leo sensed. "I'm sorry babe," Jesse replied. "I'll make it up to you." "Sure," Leo sighed. Jesse then got up and went to Mark's room to talk to him leaving Leo alone at the kitchen table. Leo just sighed to himself and blew out the candles on the table and went to bed. To Be Continued... With any comments, questions or feedback please e-mail me at ilj4ever44@yahoo.com. Thanks so much!