Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003 15:54:00 -0400 From: rye encoke Subject: Mark-and-Rye-10 Mark and Rye Okay the usual stuff that nobody reads. This is a gay story with lots of gay sex. If you aren't supposed to be here, leave. The work is mine and unless you ask you can't post it anywhere else. I have no clue if any member of Westlife is gay, so this is all my fantasy. Email me at rye_encoke@hotmail.com to tell me what you like or hate. The author wishes to acknowledge and thank the archivist for Nifty for allowing this story to be published here. Authors Notes: After many emails, some threatening violence against my body, which I ignored, and others offering sexual favours, which I took names and addresses, here is chapter 9 a week early. Please understand how worried I am that I get behind in my writing. I have many chapters written but like to keep about 2 months (8 chapters) ahead in case I hit a block. This ONE TIME only I am giving in and posting early. I hope you all understand and realize that if I do it too often, at some point I am going to run out of pre-written chapters and you may have to wait several weeks for a new chapter....and nobody wants that. DEDICATION: I would like to recognize some of the talent that has inspired me, either with their brilliant prose, warm encouragement or loving friendship. So in no particular order here are some of my favourite stories and their authors. Brian and Me - dls Light In The Tunnel - cameronwriter Lance JC and Astral Fan - pete1211 Rebound - writerboy69 Runaway - kenitra Phone Call - dkstories All The Ways I Love You - jasoncalme My New Life - midwestjames Search and Rescue - camillusdelellis This is by no means an exhaustive list and I am sure I have missed several authors but I will post more later. I really suggest you read these stories, they are all brilliant. Also to David, love you boy. - Shane and Bry Boy - Rye's eyes opened as he felt someone's lips brush gently across his mouth then moments later against his nipple. He watched as Shane pleasantly woke him up. "Morning me boyo, that's an awesome way to wake up," Rye giggled softly. "It is isn't it," Bryan said from the other side of Shane, "He woke us all up that way." Rye gently kissed Shane then said, "Thank you me boyo, think I could get a taste of my fella this morning?" Shane smiled and lay down cuddling close to Bryan who began to run his finger through the hair on Shane's chest. Mark moved to take Shane's place and pulled himself tightly to Rye kissing him deeply. Rye moaned into Mark as they kissed deeply. "Umm...excuse me....straights down here on the floor remember," Kian's voice said from the end of the bed. The guys on the bed all looked at each other and grinned. En masse they went to the end of the bed and threw themselves, all naked, on to the 3 bodies lying on the mattress. Rye and Mark grabbed onto Nicky and took turns kissing him on the lips, neck and chest. Bryan wrestled Kian down and held his arms above his head grinning wickedly at him, his erection laying across Kians belly, until Kian relented and grinned back. Bryan leaned down and gave him a deep kiss. Shane lay beside Jill with one leg thrown over her and looked at her shyly. He leaned in to give her a kiss but was stopped by Kian. Kian smiled at Shane and gave him a gentle kiss on the lips then pulled Shane back and gave him to Bryan, while claiming Jill for himself. "Much as I enjoy 6 naked or near naked men on my bed I think we need to make plans for the day," Jill said as she snuggled into Kian, not looking at all like she planned on moving. "Why don't we head to breakfast somewhere nice and figure out what we are gonna do for the day," Rye suggested. "Umm, you guys go okay, me and Bry boy wanna stay here. You can bring us something back," Shane said as he blushed furiously. Everyone looked at Shane then at Bryan. Nobody said a thing, not sure if Bryan's threatened ass-kicking and loss of friendship still held but unwilling to take the chance. "Alright then let's get dressed," Rye said. Nobody seemed at all embarrassed as the 4 naked men climbed off of the mattress. Shane crawled back into bed and under the sheets then stopped as he realized what he was doing, "Umm, Rye? Mark? Is it okay?" Mark smiled at Shane and said, "Of course boyo no worries. Bryan can Rye and I speak to you in the bathroom?" Bryan smiled and followed behind but not before kissing Shane tenderly on the lips. "Bryan we both know you love Shane, but he has not said anything about being gay. Aside from that Shane is still very vulnerable, so you have to be very careful," Mark cautioned. "I know. I don't know if he is gay either. It was actually a surprise to me when he told me he wanted to be with me today. And he meant that he wanted to be with me sexually. But I will be careful. What all can we do together do you think?" Bryan asked. "I think the best thing is to do the same as we did last night. Let him make all the moves, ask before you do anything, even the simple stuff like hugging or touching. He trusts you Bryan and if I were to make a guess.....I think Shane is gay and I think he wants you as his boyfriend," Rye finished. Bryans face lit up and he smiled so wide that it had to hurt. "That would be great, and I will let him make all the moves." Bryan moved to go back to Shane then turned, "If Shane and I get together as boyfriends, would the three of us still be able to get together?" "Of course, but if he is your boyfriend it should be him you ask not us," Mark answered. "He would say yes, because he would still want it too," Bryan sounded very sure of himself. "Actually, I think if you two become a couple..." Rye paused to look at Mark who nodded, "I think all four of us could be together at that point. As long as you and Shane were okay with it." "Well I wanta get back to my man," Bryan said. "Bryan, don't move too fast, I am only guessing," Rye warned. "I know, but I want this really bad and I have the same feeling you do. I will never hurt Shane and if it's not meant to be then that's okay," Bryan smiled brightly. It took only about a half hour for everyone to get ready and say goodbye to Shane and Bryan, who never moved from the bed but simply lay there together. Shane was laying on his side with his head on Bryan's chest while Bryan's arm held Shane closely, almost protectively. The two men heard the door close as the last of their friends left for breakfast, Bryan's hand returned to Shane's chest to play with his hair. "How long do you think they will be gone?" Shane asked. "Rye said he would call and let us know they were on the way back in case we were....." Bryan trailed off and looked at Shane. "What are we going to do Shane, I want to be with you very much. Rye said he wasn't sure if you were gay and that you were still very fragile. I want to be your boyfriend but only if that's what you want. If you just want to play around and stuff that is okay too." Bryan paused afraid maybe he had said too much then continued. "I love you Shane, so much, I have for a long time but because you never fooled around on tour I just figured you weren't into it. I am sorry you were hurt, but I would never hurt you. I will go as slow as you need. Shane looked up at Bryan. "I love you too Bryan and I do want to do stuff with you. I am not sure about how I feel, I have never thought of myself as gay, but looking back now, I believe I am. As for being my boyfriend, I don't want to move too fast okay?" Shane sounded scared as he asked this. "Of course, slow and steady. And you are completely in charge. I won't even touch you unless you say it's okay. Rye told me to do that. And I understand you aren't sure, but I want you to know that I never want to lose our friendship. If we can never be more than friends that's fine because we were friends first and I love you so much as a friend, but I think we could be more." "Okay Bry boy. I think we are thinking the same. Now, let's see what the lovers have taught us okay." Shane smiled happily as he leaned in and kissed Bryan deeply. Bryan returned the kiss until Shane pulled back, out of breath. Bryan just lay there, panting, but making no move. "What's wrong Bryan, did I do it wrong?" "No you did it great. I am just waiting for you to continue." "You can touch me you know." "Okay, where can I touch you?" "Anywhere you want. I am okay Bryan. I was scared last night but that's gone now. If things get too heavy or I get scared I will say to stop okay?" Shane said sounding just a little frustrated. "Okay," Bryan said. "You will stop if I say to won't you?" Shane asked, sounding just a little unsure. "Can I just play with your chest and nipples for awhile. I love your hairy chest my boyo. It's so sexy. I love the way it tickles my chest when we hold each other." Bryan said. "You like my hairy chest? I was afraid you wouldn't like me cuz I was hairy. I thought you would like me all smooth," Shane said. Bryan pulled Shane to him and gently rubbed his own chest against Shanes making both mens nipples hard and erect. "No I like you fine the way you are. I love everything about you. Your hairy chest and the way it feels on my skin. Your legs are so strong. Your belly is so warm against me. Your bum is so sexy," Bryan listed. Shane tensed a bit. "But I will never touch your bum, I swear, not unless you say it's okay," Bryan quickly said. "Okay. Not today okay. But not never." Shane said with a slight tremor. Bryan hugged Shane tighter and whispered into his ear. "I love you Shane and I will never hurt you or do anything you don't want me to." "Thank you my boy," Shane whispered back. "Shane I really want to suck you off, I like doing it, and I'm good at it. Can I do that please?" Bryan asked and Shane could hear the desire in his voice. "Yes please," Shane lay down on the bed after pulling the pillows around him so he could sit up partially and watch. Bryan needed no further encouragement. He gently played with Shane's balls as he licked and sucked on them. He continued to suck as Shane moaned and writhed in pleasure. Then Bryan grasped Shane's cock and quickly licked up the shaft and took it into his mouth. He increased the speed and suction as Shane's moans got louder and his breathing heavier. Finally Shane's body tensed and Bryan swallowed quickly, never losing a drop as Shane came in his mouth. After he was sure Shane had finished he scooted back up and kissed Shane on the mouth. "Oh my boy that was incredible," Shane murmured. "Almost as good as Rye and Mark huh?" Bryan smiled. "At least as good, maybe better. Sometimes being with one person is better than with two. Can I suck you now Bryan?" "That would be really great Shane, but only if you want to, not cuz you think you have to. If you're not ready to....ahhhhhh." Bryan didn't finish his sentence as Shane began to kiss and suck on the throbbing head of Bryan's cock. "Oh God Shane you do that so good. Suck me boyo I want to cum in your mouth." Shane spurred on by Bryan's words took the cock into his mouth and began bobbing up and down on it. In a very short time Bryan unloaded into Shane's waiting mouth. "God that was so good Shane. I love you so much," Bryan whispered into Shane's ear. They snuggled together, bodies entwined. "Bryan, if you promise that we can go slow, and still be with Rye and Mark, I would like to be your boyfriend," Shane whispered. "Are you sure, you said you didn't want to go too fast," Bryan answered. "I know, but I just know this feels so right, you holding me and us making love. And I have never had anyone love me before," Shane confessed to his loneliness. Bryan's heart broke at his words, how could anyone not love Shane. "Oh Shane, I love you and will be your boyfriend and yes we can still be with the lovers. They said we could all be together. I think that would be nice." The two men lay in each others arms for a long time before having a replay of their earlier fun. The happiness on their faces would have been evident to anyone there. The others however were on their way to breakfast. - Dutch Treat - "What is this place?" Nicky asked. "It's called Dutch Haus, they have all kinds of interesting food but their breakfast is awesome. Pancakes with a hot berry sauce and maple butter." Jill was nearly drooling. "That sounds really good. Do they have take-out cuz we should bring stuff back for Bry and Shane," Mark said. "Yeah they do. So you guys okay with Shane and Bry?" Rye asked to the car. "Cool with me," Kian said. Everyone else nodded. "Cool, I think they are gonna end up together. Once Shane gets rid of the last of the fear he should make quite a lover for Bry boy," Mark smiled. "So Nicky, how bout we send the rest of the group to the club tonight and you spend the night with me and Mark," Rye suggested. In the back seat Nicky blushed but said, "I was hoping it would be my turn next, but..." "But what my boy?" Rye asked. "Well, Bryan is gay and apparently Shane is too, but guys I'm not. I still want to be with you just to, you know, experience it and all, but what if I don't want to....." Nicky stopped talking and hung his head. "Listen Nicky, if all you want to do is lie there and let us give you pleasure that's fine. That's all we want to do, we get as much pleasure from what we give as from what we recieve, and we can do each other," Mark spoke up. Everyone noticed that Mark seemed to be getting a little more outspoken and confident. "Okay. I know Rye said it before but it still seems weird," Nicky relented. "Don't worry about it now Nicky, things will all clear up and you will be perfectly alright tonight, we aren't going to let you do anything you don't want to do. We will stop you before you do," Rye said. "Um guys, I already told Kian that he could be with you but he is feeling weird about it too. He seems to think that because we are together he can't be with you. I think he is thinking the same way, that he will have to do stuff that he is not ready or willing to do," Jill said. "Jill!" Kian said in shock. "It's okay Kian," Mark spoke up, "It will all work out. Listen guys this whole thing is just about being with each other. Sex isn't even necessary. Just don't think about it or worry about it. Once we get together everything becomes clear." "Then how come you won't be with Jill?" Kian asked then realized what he had asked and immediately apologized, "Sorry." "No it's okay Kian, that's a fair question. First off, I can't perform with a woman," Rye stated. "Me either," Mark said. "Second, Jill and my relationship is so far beyond anything physical that it would just be too weird." "That's what I said," Jill nodded. "And finally, you would be so uncomfortable with the whole thing it would drive you nuts," Rye said. "I wouldn't," Kian defended himself. "Really? Okay so how would it work, me and Mark with Jill and you not in the picture at all? Or maybe all 4 of us? Mark and I promised we would only do this when we are together so those are the only options. "So if you were out of the picture totally how would that feel. I saw this morning how you stopped Shane before he kissed Jill, even though it was only going to be an innocent kiss. Instead you kissed him then turned him over to be with Bryan. "Now what if it was all 4 of us. Neither Mark or I would be able to work with Jill to give her any pleasure so for the most part she would be ignored. Not particularly pleasant for anyone. She would be ignored and me and Mark would feel bad because we would be unable to give her anything of us. "So you see Kian, its not because we don't love her, it's because we do love her very much." Rye finished the explanation and Kian realized that there was some very sound reasoning behind it all. "Sorry Rye, I just didn't think," Kian said unhappily. "Kian my boy, never worry about such small things, I am not mad or upset with you at all. Don't be sad okay. I am so happy that you and Jill are together that I want to just giggle with happiness when I see you two together," Rye smiled. "New relationships are hard, and Mark and I sharing with you guys is pretty unusual and hard for you to get used to or understand. Don't let anyone force you or shame you into being with us. If you don't want to be with us that's fine. None of us will love you any less," Rye said soothingly. "No I know, and even though Jill said she wanted me to be with you both I didn't feel forced. I sorta wanta try it myself." Kian looked a little embarrassed and turned to Jill, "Sorry Jill but I do." "Don't be sorry. I told you I understand and I am fine with it. You can be with them as much as you want as long as when its over you come back to me." Jill put her arms around Kian and kissed him. "Well here we are," Rye said as they turned into a parking lot. The car pulled into the restaurant and Rye parked. Everyone got out and Rye cleared his throat. "Umm, guys, I know the owners here too and they are very.....exuberant. Try to take it as best you can. They are gonna make a real fuss over us all, and especially Mark. We won't have to tell them anything about any of us but they will figure it out in about a minute, especially that Mark and I are a couple. Just relax and go with it okay." Everyone nodded. "So is this another one of Rye's investments?" Kian leaned in to Jill. Jill smiled and nodded. "Is there anything in this city he doesn't own, or hasn't bought for someone?" Jill giggled and kissed Kian on the mouth. Rye had not exaggerated. The owners, probably in their 60's, were beyond exuberant. Nicky remembered thinking that if you could harness the energy of this pair you could run a large city off of them. "So my little one, you bring us your pretties here to show off our breakfast no. Good we bring lots. Sit, sit," Marguerite said. "So Rye, what has been keeping you busy, besides surrounding yourself with these pretty boys," Johann asked as his eyes passed around the table. "Not alot, running the club, working out and I am back to my music." "Praises to God, you are playing again?" Marguerite said loudly as she dabbed at a moist eye. "And singing too, he is singing again Marg," Jill sighed. "Oh my my my," Marguerite said. "Ah I am so happy for you," Johann said. Then to everyone's surprise he looked right at Mark and said, "God brought you to him and gifted us all by giving him back his music. You look well together." Both Marguerite and Johann nearly skipped away to get breakfast for the group, which all sat staring with stunned looks on their faces. All except Rye and Jill. "That was just spooky," Nicky whispered. "Told you," was all Rye said. "How could they possibly know that?" "No idea. I never even told them I was gay, they had it figured out about 5 minutes after we met," Rye said as he shrugged his shoulders. "After Joanne had set up the meeting, Joanne's one of the lawyers that looks after setting up new businesses, she told me flat out that these people were extraordinary and bet me that they would know all about me before the end of the meeting. She was so right. "Within about 5 minutes Marguerite says 'It doesn't matter at all to us that you are gay little one', just out of the blue, not even a part of the conversation we had been having. Then a few minutes later Johann said not to worry that the sadness in my life would end some day and I would be happy again. Well I was just stunned and a little scared. When I told them I would approve the loan and told them to call Joanne in a few days, Marguerite turned a final time and said, and I remember it so clearly, 'You will find someone who will bring joy back to your life and he will give you back those things that were taken from you.'" Rye looked at Mark and smiled. "So you see, I knew they would figure it all out, and they were right." "Are they like psychic or something?" Kian asked. "Beats me, but they can figure out things about you by just looking at you, so my guess is yeah they are psychic," Jill said. Marguerite came back to the table with a big platter of pancakes with Johann following behind. Johann had plates, silverware and two large bowls. "We'll have some ready for you to take with you when you go, for the ones left behind," Marguerite said brightly. This was too much for Nicky, "Do you know us?" "No honey, just that you are friends with Rye and Jill here, and that this one," she pointed at Mark, "has a special place in Rye's heart." "So how did you know there were others at home?" Nicky continued. Johann just shrugged and took the lid off one bowl revealing a hot berry sauce and the other had a maple butter sauce. Pancakes were served cold and the topping hot. It was different but very tasty. Marguerite and Johann went back to the kitchen to let the guys eat. "That is just too weird," Nicky said as he filled his plate, taking generous servings of the hot berry sauce and the maple butter. Everyone else nodded and dug in. Mark's eyes rolled back in his head as he tasted breakfast. "Oh my God these are fantastic." "I know, the day they came for the loan they brought samples. That was why I said yes," Rye said around a mouthful of pancakes. "Rye, you don't have to answer if you don't want, but how many people have you helped out like this. And Jill said you donate a lot to charities. Tell us about it," Nicky asked. "Only if you are comfortable with that Rye," Kian added but also obviously wanting to hear what Rye would say. Rye looked around the table at the faces of his friends, everyone was curious but that was all it was. "Sure, well I have a foundation that gives interest free loans to people with good ideas but are unable to get the money through normal routes. Usually because they are older or no collateral, stuff like that. I also founded the RTE Foundation which donates a large amount of money annually to various children's charities. That's it," Rye shrugged. "Yeah right," Jill snorted then looked around at the surprised faces. "Well what I mean is he does all that but thats not even a fraction of all he does." "Jill no," Rye said. Jill looked at him then shrugged. "I help out people when I can, let's just leave it at that okay," Rye suggested. "Sorry Rye. I was just curious was all," Nicky said. "I know my boy, but how much or how many isn't really important, not to me, not to us, so let's just leave it at what I have said okay," Rye said softly. Nicky nodded but looked sad, like he had just been scolded by a favourite uncle. Rye reached across the table and took Nicky's hand. He brought it to his lips and kissed it gently and said, "Love you Nicky." Nicky's eyes widened and he smiled brightly as he went from unhappy to blissful in a moment. "Love you too Rye." After a few minutes Kian asked, "What's the T stand for?" Before Rye could stop her Jill announced, "Thaddeus." "Why thank you for sharing with us Dolores," Rye shot back. "Fag." "Breeder." The two of them burst into laughter at the looks the guys were giving them and they went back to their meal. The meal continued till Jill pushed her plate away and said, "Okay whats on for the day?" "Well I want to take Jill with me, I have a couple things I need to do and need her input," Rye said. "Oh okay then," Jill said obviously unaware that Rye had something planned for them. "How about the rest of us grab the guys and head to the mall for some power shopping," Mark said. "Sounds good, I am about stuffed, guess we should get going," Kian said and is if on cue Marguerite walked up with two large bags. "This is the pancakes and here is the sauce and maple butter, for your other two boys." Nobody even questioned how she knew there were two at home. They just nodded and accepted that somehow this woman knew everything about them. Johann walked up and looked a little nervous. He looked at Marguerite then out the window then back at Rye. "Out with it Johann, whats on your mind?" Rye asked. "Well, we have known you for so long, and we have never seen you happier. Well we were just wondering...." "Oh Johann just spit it out he will say yes. He want's you to sing for us if you would," Marguerite finally said. Rye was truly embarrassed, his face went deeply red, but Mark squeezed his shoulder and whispered in his ear. Rye nodded and turned a bit in his seat, closed his eyes and began. Ave Maria! Vergin del ciel, sovrana di grazie e madre pia, che accogli ognor la fervente preghiera, non negar a questo straziato mio cor tregua al suo dolor! Sperduta l'alma mia si prostra a te, e pien' di speme si prostra ai tuoi pič, t'invoca e attende che tu dedia la pace che solo tu poi donar. Ave Maria! The entire restaurant was silent. Everyone was looking at where Rye sat. The guys, who had all heard Rye sing before, sat staring in awe. The effect the song had on their two hosts though was amazing. Both had tears rolling down their faces and they were trembling. Finally Marguerite just took Rye's hands in her own and pressed them to her forehead and left. Johann also pressed his hands into Rye's and smiled as he went after Marguerite. The group got up and left the restaurant. Nobody said anything until they got in the car. "Rye," Mark said. "Yeah fella?" "That was the most beautiful thing I have ever heard, ever, in my entire life." "Will you sing it again for Shane and Bryan, it would kill them to know they missed you singing again," Jill said, her voice deep with emotion. "I guess, when we go back. I wish you all wouldn't make such a fuss." Rye started the car and they drove back to the loft. The guys would every now and then steal a glance at Rye. "Guys stop doing that, I can see you all looking at me and it's making me nervous," Rye finally said. "I'm sorry Rye, it's just your voice, its...." Nicky struggled to finish his sentence and just couldn't. Kian and Mark just nodded, completely understanding what Nicky was saying but not being able to come up with anything either. "Somebody call and let Shane and Bry boy know we are on our way back and will be there in about 10 minutes," Rye finally said turning on the radio and giving Mark a pleading look. Mark smiled and began to make up words to the song playing. When the boys sang in the car they sang completely off-key, making up words to songs they did not know. It was their way of goofing around and soon all the boys had joined in with Mark. - Meals On Wheels - The car pulled into the parking lot and everyone got out laughing almost hysterically. With arms around each other they made their way into the loft. "Honey I'm home," Kian called into the apartment which made everyone laugh again. Bryan got up from the couch where he had been holding onto Shane. They were dressed for the day in jeans and t-shirts. Shane got up and placed his arms around Bryan's waist. "I'm starved. What did you bring us?" Bryan asked looking in the bag. "Pancakes," Kian handed over one of the bags while Mark handed over the other. "They'll be cold," Bryan complained. "That's how they are served. We went to this cool place. The owners are like psychic or something, they knew all about us. But the pancakes are cold and the sauce and butter are hot," Nicky explained as he walked with the rest into the kitchen. Bryan and Shane ate the breakfast, which from the looks on their faces they thoroughly enjoyed, while the others filled them in on Marguerite and Johann. Then it was Bry and Shane's turn to fill them in on a few things. "Guys, I sorta figured out that I am gay too," Shane said. Everyone noticed that although a little shy, he was not afraid to say it. "I think we all sorta figured it out Shane," Nicky joked. "Well there's more. Bryan and I have decided we want to be together, like boyfriends I mean," Shane was definitely nervous this time. Only Rye and Mark seemed to notice the look of longing and disappointment in Nicky's eyes. "That's great," Kian said immediately and got up to hug Shane tightly then moved to Bryan. "So who is your next conquest guys?" Bryan smiled teasingly at Rye and Mark. "I am, tonight," Nicky said and placed his arm around Mark. "Are you gay too?" Bryan asked half jokingly. "No, but that doesn't mean I can't be with them. That's what they said." "That's right Nicky," Mark smiled back. "I know that, remember I was the first to be with them. I know what it's all about," Bryan said as he pushed his plate away. "That was awesome pancakes." "Cool you're finished. Now you get to finish your meal like we finished ours," Nicky said and turned to look at Rye. Rye looked embarrassed but began to sing Ave Maria again. Shane and Bryan looked at him in wonder and the others went from watching Rye to watching these two. After he finished Rye looked at those around him and, as he often did, chuckled deeply at their expressions. This time it was unmistakeable, everyone in the room shivered as goosebumps travelled across their bodies and they closed their eyes at the sudden sensation. Bryan stood up and went and held on to Rye tightly, he was visibly trembling as he did so and he said, "I love you Rye." "I love you too Bry boy. What's wrong?" "Nothing I've just never held onto an angel before," Bryan whispered. Rye chuckled again, "We gotta run guys. We'll be back in a few hours." Rye tried to release Bryan but he refused to let go. "Bry my boy, I will be back you know, you can let go," Rye said gently. With a final squeeze Bryan released Rye. Jill and Rye left for their appointment leaving the guys in the kitchen. "You okay Bryan?" Shane asked. Bryan nodded, "Do you think he could really be an angel?" "After the things we have done in bed I doubt he is an angel," Mark laughed sexily. He looked around and saw the looks on the faces of his friends and went scarlet. Everyone burst out laughing. They all headed for the door. - Plans and Gifts - "So what we shopping for today?" Kian asked. "Something for Rye," Mark, Bryan and Shane all said at the same time. All five guys looked at each other and laughed. "Well I guess that makes it unanimous, any ideas what we are getting him....and if anyone says a chair I will smack them," Mark said. "No not a chair, but I do have an idea, hows this sound guys." Shane explained his idea and he could see by their expressions they were in on it. "Oh Shane what a great idea. I love it," Kian said as he climbed into the driver's seat of the van. "Guys I have something I want to talk about okay," Mark said. "Sure boyo, what's on your mind?" Shane said as he climbed into the front passenger seat. "Well its about after the tour is over. What are we going to do?" Mark asked. "We are coming back here," Bryan said as if it was obvious. "Well we can't really can we?" Nicky said after a minute. Everyone stopped talking and thought about it for a few minutes. What would they do after tour? "Well I want you guys to know I am coming back to stay with Rye. We haven't talked about it yet, but I am sure he wants you guys to come back and stay with us too," Mark said. "Yeah, like I said we are coming back here," Bryan said again, although he did not sound as sure as before. "We can't take over his loft Bryan. Maybe we could rent an apartment nearby or buy a house for us all. Rye and Jill could look after it for us while we are on tour," Kian suggested. "Jill says that Rye will want you guys to stay with him. She says he will do something spectacular and you guys will say yes. What I want to know is, if Rye asks you to stay with him, with us, will you?" Mark pushed. "I will," Bryan said without hesitation. "He would only ask because he doesn't want to hurt our feelings. We would be such an inconvenience to him. We couldn't do it," Kian said. After a few minutes Shane spoke up, "No I don't think so. If he asks it would be because that's what he really wants. I am with Bryan and Mark on this, if he asks I am staying. I have never been happier than when I am in the loft with him and Jill and you guys." Nicky shrugged his shoulders, "Sorry Kian, I know what you are saying, but I love him too much, if he asks, I am staying." Kian looked at those around him, then sighed, "Yeah me too, I guess I was just playing devil's advocate in case he didn't ask. I didn't want to get my hopes up just in case we are too much for him and he doesn't ask us." Bryan looked up and then turned to Mark, "Mark, what if he *doesn't* want us to stay with him?" That thought had never ocurred to him. Mark thought Bryan might start to cry. "He will. He hasn't talked about it but I know he will. It's like Nicky said, we love him too much to say no and he loves us too much to not ask." Marks mind was suddenly eased and he felt very happy. "Okay, so to the mall for Rye's gift. Then how bout back to the club to rehearse, we could use the sound system in the club," Shane said. "Hey Mark, what are you gonna do for talent night?" Bryan asked. "Jill told me his favourite song so I am gonna sing it to him," Mark smiled. "Umm, there are gonna be other people there fella, you can't really sing to him," Shane said. "This song I can, its Danny Boy, and I won't really be singing to him. Jill said she would lean over and tell him that I am singing for him so he would know but nobody else will," Mark smiled with a faint blush in his cheeks. "That will be beautiful Mark, you sing that song so well," Kian said. "I have a question Mark, but I don't want to upset you," Bryan said. "Go ahead Bryan," Mark said. "No wait," Shane held up his hand, "Tell me what you are gonna ask first Bry boy." Bryan leaned forward and whispered to Shane. Shane's eyes went wide as he listened to Bryan for a bit. Bryan sat back and waited for Shane to say something. Finally Shane spoke and his voice was quiet and sad. "Bryan wanted to know what you are gonna do during the last part of the tour Mark. You are going to miss Rye a lot and he wondered if you would be okay." Mark's eyes got real big and his hands started to tremble as the reality that in just seven days they would be leaving for three weeks. Tears started to fall from his eyes but he made no sound of crying. Bryan gently put his arm around him as did Nicky on the other side. Finally Mark spoke, "I will miss him, but it is only three weeks, I can call him every day and I will have you all with me. It will be hard but it will be okay." "Maybe he could come with us," Bryan suggested. Shane was about to say something but Mark answered first, "That wouldn't be a good idea. Someone would figure it out pretty quick about the two of us and all hell would break loose. Our contract is up for renewal this year, we can't afford to put that at risk." Shane had never been so proud of Mark. He knew the risk would be too high. It wasn't that he was placing the band ahead of Rye but he was thinking clearly. It was only three weeks and the risk was just too great. "It will be alright fella. The time will fly by and you can be back in your fella's arms in no time. And we will all be there for you," Shane smiled as he patted Mark's leg. Nobody brought up the thought of what management would do if they found out. But in their hearts they all knew what they would do once management did find out. They had already promised each other and Mark. It was a given that Mark and Rye came first. Silently each one renewed their promise to be with Rye always, even if it meant the end of the group. "Well that is still 7 days away and I plan on not thinking about it until Tuesday morning when that bus pulls up," Mark smiled and wiped at his eyes, trying to erase the thoughts of leaving. - Secrets - Jill walked out with Rye after a very long meeting. "I can't believe you are doing this Rye. I told Mark not to worry about it that you would do something typically Rye and make it all right," Jill laughed. "You can't tell them though, it is going to be a surprise," Rye said. "I don't know Rye, I think you should tell them so they don't make other arrangements." Rye thought about this and frowned slightly. "I never thought of that, I would hate to go through all this and they make other plans." "Especially after what this is costing you," Jill chuckled, "That is an obscene amount of money Rye, but it couldn't be better spent." "You can't tell them what it is costing." "Of course not." "You know that you will have to move in now." "What?" Jill had stopped dead in her tracks. "Of course. Kian is going to be staying, it only makes sense that you will move in now too," Rye said as if it was already decided. "Now wait just a minute..." Jill started. Rye turned and looked at her and spoke calmly but in a voice that allowed for no argument. "It's time now Jill, I won't accept any more refusals." Rye turned and continued walking to the car. Jill eventually followed with a smile on her lips and a single tear falling from her eyes which she brushed away quickly. "I guess it is time," she said as she climbed into the SUV. "I'm glad you agree." "Rye, you may not want to tell them the whole thing, but you should either ask them to stay with you or at least let Mark know that there are arrangements being made. Not to spoil your surprise but it would put all their minds at ease, especially Mark's, before they head back out onto the tour." "The tour, God I hope those three weeks fly by. I can't go with them of course, I hope they don't ask so I don't have to say no," Rye sighed. "I imagine it will cross their minds but if Shane or Kian is in on the discussion one of them will think of it. Don't worry till it happens." "Yeah. So what are you going to do for friends and family?" Rye asked changing the subject. "Haha, no way, this year it's a secret, and don't even bother trying to get me to tell you what the guys are doing I am sworn to secrecy," Jill laughed. "Okay, but I wanta ask you something about what I am going to do?" Rye sounded worried. "You are going to perform?" "Yeah but, like I said, I wanta ask you something?" Rye said. "Okay." "I have written a song for Mark, it's a love song, but I am not sure if I should sing it at friends and family," Rye admitted. Jill thought for a long time before answering. "I think you should talk to the other guys Rye. Everyone at work knows you are gay, and I imagine that most have a feeling there is something going on with you and Mark. But having a feeling and actually seeing you sing him a love song are two different things. I believe you can trust them all but I can't be positive. My suggestion is wait till everyone has left then it will just be the few of us and sing it to him then." "I guess you are right," Rye sighed. "I know you want to tell everyone how you love him, but right now I don't think it is a great idea. But again, ask the guys, they will answer honestly and better than I can," Jill put her arm on Rye's. "Yeah," he said softly. "Rye, the song is for Mark, does it really matter if anyone else ever hears it. What is important is for him to hear it. Whether it is in a room full of people or just you and him won't make a difference," Jill said softly. Rye smiled a bit, then laughed, "Of course you are right, as long as you and the guys are there to share it, it doesn't matter who else hears it." "So if you don't do the song for the party are you still going to perform?" "Yeah I have an original instrumental plus I plan on singing for you and the guys." "What are you going to sing for us?" Jill asked knowing full well he would not tell her. Rye looked at her with an arched eyebrow and asked, "What are the guys performing?" They both laughed and said nothing as they pulled into the parking lot of the loft. - Nicky's Night - "Hey we're home, anyone here?" Jill shouted into the loft. "Yeah. We're all back. The guys are down in the club practicing their routine," Mark said as he came from the kitchen carrying a glass of milk and some cookies. "Really, how interesting," Rye said slyly. "Rye get away from the security monitors. The guys would be so disappointed if you spoiled their surprise," Jill said. "Yeah alright. Listen fella I have something to show you, I wanted it to be a surprise for everyone but I need to make sure you guys don't make other arrangements so I am gonna let you in on it as long as you promise not to tell the guys. I mean I want you to tell them not to worry but not the whole surprise." "That was pretty confusing Rye. What he means is he wants you all to come back to stay with him after tour and he has made some special plans to ensure you do. Remember I told you he would do something spectacular. Well even I had no idea." Jill watched as Rye spread some plans across the table. Mark looked at them not quite sure what he was seeing. Then it finally clicked in and he flung his arms around Rye. "Oh my God Rye its perfect. I won't tell them. But we were already talking about it today, they all said that if you asked they would stay. Then we all sorta got scared thinking maybe you were getting sick of us and wouldn't ask." Rye looked surprised, "Sick of you?" "Well you know we are sorta underfoot all the time," Mark said. "Do they really feel that way?" Rye asked with a tremor in his voice. Mark looked to see Rye's eyes filled with tears. He pulled him in close again and nuzzled his neck. "Not really, but we have all been together for such a short time. You can understand how fear could cloud their thoughts. Every one of them said they love you and would jump at the chance to stay here." Rye nodded. For a moment he was scared that maybe they wouldn't come back to stay with him. "Yeah I can understand that. I just felt the same fear. That maybe they didn't want to be here. It's okay." All heads turned as the guys walked into the loft. They were all laughing and joking, then they saw Rye and Mark together. Mark was obviously comforting Rye and they all became worried. "What's wrong Rye?" Bryan asked as he went to Rye. Mark quickly released Rye and folded up the papers on the table as Bryan hugged Rye. Mark thought to himself it was a good thing he was not the jealous type. "Just being silly," Rye responded. "Guys remember what we were talking about this morning. How we wondered what we were going to do after tour. Well Rye has been thinking about the same thing, and the same fears we had he had." Mark said as he tucked the papers away. "We were all worried that maybe he wouldn't want us to stay with him even though he does, and he was worried that we wouldn't want to stay with him even though we all do," Mark explained. Everyone stopped for a minute to figure out Mark's little speech. Then smiles appeared on everyone's faces. "Rye are you asking us to stay with you after tour?" Shane asked, excitement in his voice. "Yes please, if you want to, you don't have to but I really would like you to be with me," he took Mark's hand, "with us." "YES!" Bryan shouted and high-fived Shane. "I think that gives you our answer," Kian chuckled. "Jill was right, he has done something amazing for us to guarantee that we would stay. It's a surprise for everyone. He only told me because he was scared we would make other arrangements or not want to stay," Mark said. "What did he do?" Bryan asked. "Can't tell Bry boy," Mark shook his head, "It's a surprise, and a good one. I need your solemn promises that you will not try to find out and will just put it out of your mind until it happens. This is very very important to Rye okay?" Everyone nodded. "Okay okay now our surprise." Bryan was nearly jumping up and down he was so excited. "Okay Bry boy what have you got?" Rye smiled. "This was Shane's idea but we all love it and so its from all of us," Bryan said as he pulled something from his shirt. It was a gold medallion on a chain. He leaned over and showed it to Rye. It had a large 'B' on one side and on the other was engraved 'Rye's Boy'. One by one the other's showed Rye their medallions, all with their first initial on one side and the words 'Rye's Boy' on the other. Then Shane held out a chain and medallion to Rye and said, "For Mark, I think you should put it on him." This medallion had a large letter 'M' on it and the back of this one said 'Rye's Fella' on it. Both Rye and Mark smiled as Rye fastened it. "And finally for you Rye." Shane held out another chain and medallion. This one had a large letter 'R' on it and on the back were the names of all five boys engraved. Mark fastened it for Rye. "That's the sweetest thing I have ever seen," Jill said from her chair. "We didn't forget about you either Jill," Kian said. He went to her and took a small box from his pocket. "It's a friendship ring Jill. It is meant to show how much we all feel for you. On the inside is engraved all our names." Jill took the ring and looked at it. Her eyes teared up as she handed it back to Kian for him to put it on her finger. "Hopefully I will be doing this again someday with a different type of ring," He whispered so that only she could hear. Her eyes got very large and then she hugged him tightly and kissed his neck. "I want someone to hug me," Bryan said and opened his arms waiting. Nicky and Shane reached him first and wrapped their arms around him laughing. "I just love everyone so much, I have never felt so happy. If this is a dream I don't ever want to wake up." Emotions suddenly overwhelmed Bryan and he started to cry. Without a word being spoken everyone in the room gathered for a group hug. Everyone basking in the love they all shared. "You know what we need.....a theme song." Kian chuckled as he stepped back a bit while still holding on to the others. After a moment Rye started to sing, quickly joined by the others. Sometimes in our lives We all have pain We all have sorrow But if we are wise We know that there's Always tomorrow Lean on me When you're not strong I'll be your friend I'll help you carry on For it won't be long Till I'm gonna need Somebody to lean on Please swallow your pride If I have things You need to borrow For no one can fill Those of your needs That you won't let show You just call on me brother When you need a hand We all need somebody To lean on I just might have a problem That you'll understand We all need somebody to lean on Lean on me When you're not strong I'll be your friend I'll help you carry on For it won't be long Till I'm gonna need Somebody to lean on You just call on me brother When you need a hand We all need somebody to lean on I just might have a problem That you'll understand We all need somebody to lean on If there is a load You have to bare That you can't carry I'm right up the road I'll share your load If you just call me Call Me If you need a friend Everyone hugged again then separated. Nobody felt silly at the sentimental moment they had all shared. "So anyone have any plans for the next few hours before dinner?" Jill asked. "I was gonna work out, I have skipped the last couple of days. Don't wanta lose my girlish figure." Rye swivelled his hips seductively. "Hey can I join in, it's been awhile for me too?" Bryan asked. "Sure, anyone else?" "No thanks. Anyone up for pool?" Kian asked. Everyone but Shane nodded. "I'm gonna stay and watch these two gods," Shane smiled happily. In a few minutes everyone had left for the club leaving the three guys behind. As Rye helped Bryan set up the equipment for his own level Shane watched, but a sad expression was on his face. "What's wrong me boyo, you look like the weight of the world is on your shoulders?" Rye asked after noticing. "Rye, we can't ask you to go on tour with us," Shane just said it outright. "I know that, I was hoping nobody would ask because I would have had to say no. It would be too easy for us to get caught." Rye was on another machine working his legs. Shane smiled, "You are always on top of things aren't you." "Not really, I can still get a surprise every now and then. Deep down I am still a scared young man who just had his family murdered. I am pretty fragile inside." Bryan had stopped his workout and turned to Shane. "You are the strongest person I know Rye," Bryan said. "Not really, here in my little world I am in control. But I can still be hurt. If I went on tour I would eventually slip up and reveal what we don't want revealed yet. I would hurt Mark, you guys and me. I couldn't stand that. It would kill me. So I can't go." He said it so simply. "Rye how do you feel about going public, about you and Mark I mean?" Shane asked. Rye stopped his workout and looked thoughtful. Finally he smiled, "Going public would mean nothing to me, I am pretty open. It's you guys that would have to worry. I don't mean to sound flippant but I honestly don't care, as long as Mark and I are together, and you guys are here with us, that's what matters. The world outside be damned. So no matter what he decides I will support him. I won't love him any less if he decides to keep it quiet." Shane nodded. "I knew that would be your answer. I agree. Here in this place it's like a little world of our own, nothing outside can touch us. We can be ourselves here and we are so happy. It's like I've been looking for these things all my life and I found them all here." Rye just nodded and started his workout again. His mind was working overtime though. His talk with Shane had given him an idea. - A Little Getaway - Everyone followed in behind Jill as she entered the club. It was around 3 and some of the kitchen staff were already there. "Hey Paul, we are just gonna shoot some pool for a bit before supper." "Heya Jill. You all coming for supper tonight?" "I think so." "Hey I thought you and Rye were on vacation?" "We sort of are." "Hehehe, you two are the only people I know who take a vacation and still show up at work. You should get away somewhere?" Jill stopped dead and a broad smile crossed her face. She slapped her forehead and reached for her cell. "What are you thinking Jill?" Kian smiled at her, she had this look on her face that said she was the dumbest person in the world. "Hey Shane can I speak to Rye....Hey Rye....yeah I know but this is quicker....you know what Paul just said....we are on vacation how come we haven't gone somewhere...yeah that's exactly what I was thinking....cool I will tell them." Jill disconnected and looked at the guys. - Back to Rye - Shanes cell rang and he answered. "Hey Jill, sure just a sec." He handed it over to Rye. "Hey Jill....you're just downstairs why not come back up to talk.. no what....he's sorta right, hey how about heading to the lake.... let's do it." Rye hung up and quickly dialed another number. "Hey Ed, its Rye, listen can you get the cabin ready for tomorrow. Great we will be there in the afternoon sometime. Can you stock us up. There are gonna be seven of us. Four or five days I guess. Thanks Ed." Rye disconnected. "Who wants to go camping?" Rye giggled at the expressions on his two friends, as he went back to his workout. Well the next few days would be fun, really give the guys the time and place to relax. Then Rye's thoughts turned to tonight and Nicky. He smiled to himself as he thought about how he was going to absolutely blow Nicky away, no pun intended. ...to be continued SONG LYRICS ETC.... The rights to all songs and lyrics are maintained by their respective authors. By using them in my story and letting a character take ownership of them in no way implies real ownership on my part or the character's part. You knew that right? First off, last chapter I used the title of a song called Caliente for Rye's instrumental piece. This is a real song and is quite beautiful. No idea who the real composer is but the version I found was played by Charo. If you like classical guitar, or have never heard it before I suggest this song. The Ave Maria may be different then the one you are used to. I have no idea what language this is, I think it's Italian. The best I have ever heard this sung is by Andrea Bocelli. No offense is meant to anyone who is religious by my using this song. I feel that some of the most beautiful and soulful music in the world are hymns. If you were offended by a gay man singing a hymn, then honey what are you doing reading this far into the story. The last song, Lean On Me, I have always liked. I used this song rather than a love song because I wanted to stress the friendship. It is really corny I know to have a theme song, but it seemed to fit the mood and the way I want the characters to act. Bill Withers is the performer I know for this song although I have heard many people sing it.