Date: Mon, 08 Sep 2003 18:05:12 -0400 From: rye encoke Subject: Mark-and-Rye-28 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: Sorry about the time delay in getting this out. I have had a lot of stuff happen personally that just made it hard to sit and write. Thanks to a wonderful friend though I have made it through and managed to get this chapter out. The next chapter is already partially written and should only be about a week or maybe two away from posting. Enjoy. DEDICATION: To Glenn...MBB - An Interesting Beginning To The Day - The lovers awoke wrapped around Nicky and smiled at each other across his chest. A knock at the door made them turn to see Bryan stick his head in. "You guys getting up or sleeping in some more?" he asked. "Gonna stay and snuggle some more, why don't you get the others and everyone join us, the bed is huge?" Mark suggested. Bryan's face lit up and he left briefly but was back quickly and climbed in next to Rye. He snuggled in closely and murmured contentedly into Rye's chest. Rye smiled and placed his hand on Bryan's arm and stroked it softly. "You're a little overdressed my boy," Rye giggled then moved his hand down to take off Bryan's boxer briefs. Bryan giggled and nipped at Rye's chest then reached down and gently held Rye's cock. Shane came in a minute or so later and quickly took off his boxers. He climbed in next to Mark and pulled himself in closely behind him. He reached across Mark to gently stroke Nicky's chest as he slowly woke up. "Wow, now this is the way to wake up. We are only missing two now," Nicky smiled. "We're here," Jill said as she came in behind Kian. The two piled in behind Shane, Kian's bare ass pressed up tightly to Shane's. "This is so wonderful I can't even describe how I feel. How did we get so lucky?" Nicky mused aloud. "Simple. We have an angel on our side," Bryan said into Rye's chest. Rye smiled and took Byran's hand and moved it back down to rest on his cock. Bryan smiled and kissed Rye sweetly. Everyone lay together for some time, softly caressing and kissing each other. Nicky looked over to Shane, "I showed the lover's what we did last night with our Bry boy. It was amazing, Fella did me then I did Angel." Shane smiled and pushed his semi-hard cock into Mark's ass. "I am really looking forward to tonight Fella," Shane said. "Me too Boyo, I want you in me again. If we do it like we did with Nicky, can we try to have you lay on me a bit so I can feel your hairy chest on my back?" Mark asked. "Of course Fella, but if that doesn't work let's do it like we did the threesome before, everyone on their sides. That way for sure you can feel my chest," Shane answered. Mark turned his head a bit to take Shane's kiss. A knock on the door made everyone turn. "Come in," Mark called. The door opened to a fully dressed Matt and Andy. Andy blushed furiously at the sight before him but he did not look away. "Sorry. We couldn't find anyone and wondered if Mark and Rye knew where you all had gone," Matt said and everyone chuckled. "Care to join us, just for some gentle caressing and snuggling? We are all naked and a little hard but it doesn't go beyond snuggling and kissing," Mark asked. Matt looked at Andy and smiled, "What do you want to do Andy?" Andy blushed and looked away shyly as he answered softly, "Can we? It's not sex really, just cuddling and touching." Matt smiled and nodded, he really wanted to do this but after last night he wasn't going to do anything he wasn't absolutely sure Andy was okay with, but it was quite obvious Andy wanted this. Everyone turned so that they weren't obviously watching the two men undress. When the two were naked Matt asked, "Does it matter where we get in?" "No just pick who you want to cuddle with and climb in, if you want to be in the middle of a pair then just say so. We are all semi-hard or hard so don't be embarrassed," Mark said seeing Andy fully erect. "We are all touching or caressing each other and kissing but if it gets uncomfortable or you don't want to be touched somewhere just say so politely. Our rule is the word 'stop' stops everything." "Can I get in between Nicky and Mark?" Matt asked. Nicky smiled widely and held out his hand in invitation. Matt smiled and crawled in to be immediately cuddled by the two men. "Can I snuggle with you Shane?" Andy asked in a very small shy voice. Shane smiled and nodded. Andy climbed in and snuggled against Shane's chest, his bum against Mark's. "This is nice, sorry about being hard," Andy whispered to Shane. "It's okay my boy. Can I touch it?" Shane asked. Andy blushed brightly and smiled. He sat up and looked at Matt. Matt smiled and nodded his approval. Andy lay back down and swallowed hard, "That would be nice, please." Shane gently caressed Andy's hardness and smiled as Andy's body shivered with pleasure. Shane only did it once. He brought Andy's face up and kissed him softly. "When we share like this, it's about love and friendship. Although you won't share with us like we all do together, it's nice to sometimes just hold a friend and know that you are loved," Shane said. "You guys have a real special relationship don't you, with rules and stuff?" Andy asked. Shane nodded, "Each of us have our lovers; Mark and Rye, Kian and Jill, Nicky and Bryan and me. Now the lover's, that's Mark and Rye, they share with us all as well. When we are with the lover's we do it all. Their love is so strong they can do that with us. But when me or one of my boys is with the lover's the other two can only kiss and rub each other. We never want there to be even a chance of jealousy. When we are all together like this we can touch and kiss but no rubbing. This is about the love of friendship so we don't cum," Shane explained. Andy nodded, "What about Kian and Jill?" "None of us can perform with a woman so that makes it hard for Jill, but we can all be with each other and kiss and rub, that includes Kian," Shane explained. Jill sat up a bit, "I don't feel left out at all though. The bond between the boys has been there forever and so nothing has really changed for them. And as for sharing Kian with the lovers, I am more than happy to do it. I know how special the love of Angel is." Everyone stayed snuggled for awhile until finally Kian spoke up, "We should probably get up and do something. At least get lunch cuz I am starved." "Sounds good," Mark answered and climbed out of bed. "Hey my boys, stay here for a bit. Matt and Andy you too okay?" Shane asked. "Sure Shane," Matt answered. Everyone else got up and quickly grabbed clothes and left, leaving the five men in the bed. Matt shifted position so he was between Bryan and Nicky. Andy was on the other side of Nicky with Shane on the outside. "Listen guys, I wanted to ask if something has happened. I noticed we are back to Matt and Andy. Would you like to share with us why?" Shane asked. Matt looked across Nicky's chest to his lover, but Andy wasn't making eye contact with anyone. "Last night, Andy fucked me, not made love but fucked me. At the time we both thought it was what we wanted. Afterwards though he cried and said he hated it and wanted to be called Andy again," Matt said softly as he reached his arm across Nicky to rub his lover's arm. Andy dry sobbed and Shane snuggled up closely. "You are an amazing young man Andy. How strong you were to let your lover know what you wanted and to recognize the difference between sex and love. And how strong you were to admit that sometimes, you need to be the one being looked after in this relationship. I figured it was something like that and without sounding condescending, I want you to know how proud of you I am," Shane said. "You know you aren't the only person to have problems in their relationship. It took some time for me to figure out what I wanted too," Nicky confessed. "Tell them about it Nicky. It may help and it's always good to say things out loud," Shane suggested. Nicky nodded and reached down to hold Andy's hand. "After Bry boy and Boyo got together I was feeling very left out and jealous I guess. I was so happy for the two of them but so sad for me. I figured all my chances were gone. I had never thought of myself as gay, and I still don't really, but I wanted to be loved. I realized pretty quick I wanted what the two of them had, the problem was I wanted it with them. But I guess they had me figured out," Nicky smiled. "Not really. We were never sure, we just hoped. I had always loved you and Shane. When Shane admitted he loved me I was so happy but I was incomplete too. I knew I loved you the same way, and I was feeling bad cuz I was so greedy. I had one beautiful lover but wasn't going to be happy until I had both of you," Bryan said. "Well it just finallly hit me. I loved them both. I was in the shower with Bryan. He was helping me to get ready to be with the lovers. He was being so gentle and loving and it just finally came to me. I suddenly became very calm and felt such a peace come over me and I just said I wanted to be their boyfriend," Nicky said. "That was nice Nicky. How did you decide who is in charge in your relationship?" Andy asked. "Nobody is in charge. We are all equal partners. But we each have a role that sort of comes naturally to us I guess. But even those roles change. At first I was a protector. After Boyo told us all about his rape he just needed to be held and protected and know that somebody loved him. Both Nicky and I did that for a long time," Bryan said. "That's true. I needed to feel like someone was looking after me. I still like it every now and then. But sometimes I like to be the one to hold onto one of my boys and comfort them. So just because you feel the need to be the one being looked after and protected now doesn't mean it will always be that way. And even if it is, there is nothing wrong with that," Shane said. "I remember one time you asked how we decided who was the girl. Well I will admit something right now that even my boys don't know. I like being the girl so to speak. I like being made love to of course, but it's more than that, I like it when Nicky or Shane take charge. But not always. Last night I was in charge of it all. I made sweet love to both my boys and felt so strong and powerful and in control. But tomorrow night,I am going to be the one being made love to again and I will love it," Bryan said. "I guess what all this means is that there is no one right way, in fact no real constant way to have a relationship. You just have to move and change with circumstances. So last night Andy needed a change. It may stay like this for awhile but eventually it could change," Matt said. "Exactly. Matt I know how much you love to have Andy make love to you. And that doesn't have to stop. As long as you are still the one in charge, the protector, then you can still make love to each other," Nicky said. "Really? Is that true Andy, are you still going to be able to make love to me?" Matt sat up and looked at Andy with hope in his eyes. "Of course, did you think I wasn't going to?" Andy asked as he sat up and looked at Matt. Matt blushed and nodded, "It would have been okay, but my heart just about broke. I thought you didn't want to make love to me any more." "Oh Matt no," Andy cried and threw his arms around Matt pulling him as close as possible across Nicky who was still in between the two. "These relationship things are hard, we have to talk all the time to make sure we are not hurting or ignoring each other," Bryan said, "you guys gotta talk more." "Yeah I don't ever want to lose my big strong man. I love him too much and he makes me feel so good when I make love to him," Andy smiled. "Everything gonna be okay now with you all?" Shane asked. "I think so," Matt answered. "Would it be alright if we come talk to you guys sometimes like this?" Andy asked. "Sure any time. And just so you guys know, you can talk to any of us including Rye and Mark or Kian and Jill. We all love you guys as friends that's how we could share like this. And really, I suggest you ask Mark and Rye to hang out like this once. I mean everyone get naked in bed and hold and cuddle. Their love is so incredibly strong you can actually feel it physically," Nicky answered. "I don't want to have sex with them though, or you guys either. I mean I love you all, but just as really good friends," Andy said. "That's okay, our rules wouldn't allow it any way. We can cuddle and kiss but we can't cum. But if you guys are up to it, we could all stay here together and make our own lovers cum," Bryan offered. "Ummm...how would that work?" Matt asked. "Well, we three would be on this side, you two on that side. We just make out and make everyone cum. If you wanted you could watch us first then we could watch you. It's up to you though, and saying no won't upset any of us," Bryan said. "Maybe we could all make out but not really watch each other. I mean we will see some stuff and hear each other but I would feel weird knowing I was being watched," Matt said. "I wouldn't mind watching and being watched, but if Matt doesn't want to it's okay. How do we make our lover cum?" Andy asked. "Just kissing and rubbing," Shane answered. "Okay," Andy smiled and got up to move to one side of the bed and held his hand out to Matt. - The Others - "So what do you figure is going on in there?" Kian asked with a wiggle of his eyebrows. "Stop that, they are talking to Andy and Matt. I assume everyone noticed they are back to Andy and Matt and not Andrew and Matthew any more. Something happened and I think the boyfriends are fixing it," Jill said. Kian looked a little surprised then kissed Jill, "I didn't clue into that. But you're right, I bet that's exactly what is going on." "The boys will be able to help them, they have been through some problems figuring their relationship out too. Besides Andy really looks up to Shane, and Matt feels very close to Bryan," Mark said. "You don't think they will share together do you?" Kian asked. "No I don't think so. I think they would talk to us about it first if they ever wanted to do that. Since it would involve us as well since none of us use protection when we make love," Rye said. "Okay well what are we going to do today?" Jill asked. "I am going to order us lunch first," Kian giggled as he reached for the phone. "Okay well I want Jill and Kian to come with me for something," Mark said as he evaded Rye's eyes. "I can't come?" Rye pouted. "No," Mark smiled. "Okay so it's a surprise is it. That's fine. I can take the boys to the amusement park a few blocks away. That should take up the whole day. But we are gonna need security," Rye said. "I'll go talk to Ed and Jay. I wanted to say good morning to them any way. What exactly is it we are going to be doing Mark? Ed will need to know," Kian leaned down to Mark. Mark looked at Rye to make sure he wasn't listening in. Rye chuckled and put his hands over his ears while Mark whispered to Kian. Kian nodded and left to find Ed and Jay. - Ed and Jay - Ed and Jay had been up since early morning. Years of feeding horses and early morning workouts made for early risers. Kian found them sitting on their patio eating lunch next to the lake. "Hey guys, listen we have some tentative plans for the day and needed to run it past you as security," Kian smiled at the couple. "Sure take a seat," Ed offered. "Thanks. Okay Mark, Jill and I are not sure where we are going. Mark wants to organize a romantic date for him and Rye. But the rest of the boys and Rye are gonna head to a local amusement park," Kian outlined. "Sounds okay. I think Pup and I can go with you three that should be all we need. We probably aren't going to be going anywhere that we would need more. The others are definitely gonna need some security though. Let's send Matt and Andy. They can hang out with you guys and I like to have someone in charge of the security detail. We don't want the group too big though. I'll send Alex and Carl. They are both well trained and both have family that is gay so we won't run into any problems, but they will know to watch for any public displays," Ed said. "Okay sounds great. But listen guys this is sort of, I don't know, uncomfortable. You two and Matt and Andy are friends too. I mean I know your job is security but on our time off like this we sort of want you guys to hang with us as friends," Kian tried to explain. "We know that and so do Matt and Andy. And that is what we will be doing. But we can also be security for you. Listen with you three today, there is so little need for security you could probably go without. But we know we would all feel better if you had someone. So me and Jay are coming. Now the others need some more security it's true. So that's where Alex and Carl come in. Matt and Andy are gonna go and have fun, and I will tell them that when I explain it to Matt. But like I said, in case of security decisions to be made, I want Matt there," Ed explained softly. Kian smiled and jumped up and hugged Ed. Ed was surprised and blushed. "You're the best Ed. Thanks for looking after us. We probably don't say it enough but thanks for all you do for us to keep us safe. And thanks for being our friend, both of you, you have no idea how much it means to us all," Kian said as he walked around to hug Jay as well. "You guys are great and we are so blessed to be part of your life," Jay hugged Kian back. - It's All In The Attitude - Lunch had been filled with everyone, including Matt and Andy, laughing and talking and enjoying the company of friends. As lunch wound down Ed and Jay came to gather up Mark, Kian and Jill. "Okay guys, you all have fun at the amusement park and we will see ya later," Mark said as he kissed Rye softly on the neck and waved to the rest of the gang. "Yeah we will, we'll try to bring back candy apples or something for ya," Nicky smiled. "Bring the cameras and take lots of pics so I can see it," Mark said. "Why don't you come with us, you can do whatever you are doing some other time," Bryan begged. "Not this time Bry boy, I really need to do this," Mark leaned forward and kissed the top of Bryan's head. "Okay well have fun, we will miss ya," Shane said. The small group of five waved and left on their trip to plan a romantic date for Mark and Rye. "I wish they could have come with us, they are gonna miss so much fun," Bryan said. Rye's face lit up, "Let's go get some video cameras so we can tape our day instead of just taking pictures." "Yeah!" Bryan exclaimed excitedly. Everyone jumped up and headed to the elevators to pick up the rest of security. In no time at all the group was in a van heading to a local electronics store. "Okay, you guys all stay here while Andy and I grab a video camera," Matt said. "Awww," Bryan whined. "Listen, how about me and Bry boy and Matt go in. It should be safe enough if we all wear disguises," Rye asked of Matt. Matt pondered for a minute and looked at Rye and Bryan in their sunglasses and baseball hats. They didn't look disguised but then again he knew who they were. He saw the eagerness on Bryan's face and rolled his eyes. "Alright we will go in. Just stay together and if I say to run, you run, understand?" Matt asked. "Yes," everyone including Andy answered. Matt rolled his eyes again and opened the door, leaving the other two Westlifers, Andy and the other two security in the van. The three men walked to the store and entered. They easily saw the large sign hanging from the ceiling that told them where the video cameras were. As they walked Bryan giggled and slipped his hand into Rye's who smiled and pretended he didn't notice. They quickly found a salesman. "Excuse me we are looking to buy a video camera," Rye said. The older man looked at the trio and at Rye and Bryan holding hands. His smile disappeared and he pointed to a display at the end of one of the aisles holding cheap video cameras. "There," he grunted and turned away. "Friendly," Matt commented. Bryan dropped Rye's hand and his smile had gone. Rye turned to Bryan and took his hand again. "Never, ever be ashamed of this my boy," Rye said softly and squeezed his hand to let him know he loved him. "Hi my name's Corey can I help you with something?" a young man who looked like he was just out of high school asked. "Yes we are looking to buy a video camera and need some help. Is that a problem?" Rye asked clearly bringing into view his and Bryan's clasped hands. "Not at all sirs," the young man continued smiling, "let's see what we can find for you. Can you tell me basically what you want it for." Inwardly everyone breathed a little easier with this young man. He seemed unphased by the display of affection between the two men and seemed eager to please. "Do you work on commission here?" Matt asked. "Well some people are, but I just work full time until school starts then I go back down to part time so I just get an hourly wage," Corey said as he guided the group to the main display of video cameras. Everyone nodded as they looked at the wall. "Wow, there's so many. How do we pick?" Bryan asked of nobody in particular. "Well, again, tell me what your main use is going to be," Corey prompted. "Okay well basically, today some of us are going to the amusement park. Some of our other friends can't make it and we wanted to video the day so they could see us having fun. We will probably be doing the same things at other times during the next few weeks as well," Rye said. "Okay so you want something that isn't going to need to be recharged a lot and with good picture and sound quality and lightweight. Unfortunately that all comes pretty expensive. Let me show you a few models and you can decide if you want to spend that much," Corey said. The trio spent the next 15 minutes or so listening to Corey show the various models. He knew his stuff and they felt comfortable with his expertise. "Okay well the price isn't really of main concern to us, but I like this one a little better even though it's cheaper than that one," Bryan said as he held a camera in his hands. "Yeah I think that is the better choice. Like I said the recharge time is faster and the batteries have a longer life. Each battery has 6 hours of life compared to the 4 hours that this one uses. The only drawback to that one is the smaller lcd screen can make it a little harder to see what you are filming," Corey once again describing the pros and cons of the two machines the group had looked at. "Yeah but it's only a little bit smaller and the other benefits make this one way better," Bryan said. "And the one truly nice thing about this one is that it can hold the full 6 hours of video on a single extended play cassette. Again those cassettes are a little more expensive but I think well worth the price," Corey nodded. "And in order to watch the tape we just hook the camera itself into a tv or monitor and run it from the camera?" Rye asked again. "Yep, its got a bunch of jacks on the docking station to allow you to hook up to just about anything including a vcr or computer. Makes it a little simpler for editing. Although honestly I don't know enough about editing video to be able to help you with that," Corey said as he held up his hands and laughed. "Okay I think this is our camera," Rye smiled. "Cool, so did you want just one tape or two. They are expensive but I would really recommend you get two just in case you need to tape again before you have transferred from the original or just to have a second tape ready in case you find you suddenly need it," Corey suggested. "Sounds good Corey, do you think we could talk to your store manager please?" Rye asked. Corey looked a little shaken but knowing he had done nothing wrong he went to the cash desk and dialed the number. He came back in a minute and said, "Helen will be right here. I hope I haven't done anything to offend you." Rye smiled, "Not at all Corey, not at all." The group turned as a woman in her mid to late 30's walked up to them. "My name is Helen I am the store manager, is there a problem?" "Well yes and no. My friends and I came into the store today to make a purchase. We first approached another salesman who after seeing that my friend and I were holding hands became very cold to us and basically just left us here," Rye explained. "That would be James," Corey filled in and Helen's face tightened a bit and she nodded. "I apologize sir, he has an attitude problem that we are aware of. I will deal with it immediately. In the meantime however I assure you that Corey here will be more than happy to help you out. I can offer you a 20% discount on your purchase to help ease the problem you had with James," Helen offered. "Not at all. Corey has spent the last little bit helping us out tremendously. I plan on making a large purchase here and don't want or need the discount. I will tell you right now we are music stars and if Corey had not approached us almost immediately and put us at ease we would have left without purchasing anything and your company would have gotten a nasty letter," Rye said. "Oh my God, it's Bryan and Angel!" Corey said in a loud excited whisper as he suddenly clued in to who was standing in front of him. Matt moved closer to the trio and looked around but nobody was near enough to have heard the young man. Bryan giggled and nodded. "Westlife?" Helen asked as her face went white. Her two daughters were fans and had attended Thursday's concert with Corey, coming home and raving about the night. Rye nodded. "I apologize again sir, is there anything else we can do to help?" "Yes actually. I understand Corey here is not on commission but I feel very badly that he is not going to be recognized for his helping us today," Rye said. "I am truly sorry, but there is nothing really I can do," Helen said then her face lit up. "Wait, I could put through the purchase as my sale then give him the commission when it comes through." "But then he doesn't get the recognition from the store for the sale," Bryan said. "Look, it's really nice you trying to do this, but it's not really necessary," Corey said as he still looked at Rye and Bryan with a bit of awe. Rye turned and looked at the young man. "Corey let me explain to you what I am about to do and let you decide okay?" Rye asked and Corey nodded. "You are right about who we are. I plan on buying 9 of those cameras and 18 of those cassettes. That's a huge sale. Now you decide if you want the recognition here in the store for the sale which would help you in your job I imagine, or if you want Helen to put the sale through so you can get the commission." "How come 9?" Bryan asked immediately as both Helen's and Corey's eyes went wide. "The seven of us plus one for Matt and Andy plus one for Ed and Jay," Rye explained. "Corey listen I know you need the money. Let's put it through under my number and I will call head office and let them know exactly how everything happened. I will get you as much of the credit for the sale as we possibly can," Helen said. Corey nodded. "Alright then gentlemen. I'll let Corey ring you up and send you on your way. I am going to go deal with James and then call head office. Corey use my number and then call and give me a total so I can have the figure for head office okay?" Helen asked and Corey nodded. "Have a good day gentlemen. My daughters loved your concert and they were still going on about it this morning when I left for work. They told me you were gay Angel so I had to have a talk with them about sex that I hadn't really planned on having with them but was surprised to find out how much they already knew and I was able to straighten out some things they had wrong. All in all it was a much more pleasant and educating experience for all concerned than I thought it would be. You two make a nice couple," Helen said. "Well thanks for most of that, but Bry boy and I aren't lovers, just very good friends," Rye said. "Yeah, life on the road is hard and when you make friends like Angel you hang on to them. Not that I wouldn't be proud and honoured to call him my lover, but he is not mine," Bryan said, never denying he was gay just explaining that Rye belonged to someone else. Helen smiled and nodded then left. Everyone turned to Corey who was still sort of star struck. "Okay Corey let's get our stuff together," Matt encouraged, startling Corey a bit. "Right okay. So 9 cameras and 18 cassettes," Corey began to gather everything but soon stopped. "Do you have any idea how much this is going to cost you?" "Don't worry about it," Bryan giggled and leaned his body into Rye's giving him a little shove with his shoulder. When everything had been gathered and totalled up Corey announced the cost with a gulp, "It comes to $22,469.45" Rye smiled and handed over his credit card to Corey who took it with a trembling hand. In just a minute the sale was completed and they were ready to go. "Corey would you mind taking that all out to our van, I have one more thing I want to do," Rye asked. "Sure no problem," Corey said. "Matt you and Bryan go with him please," Rye said. Matt looked like he was going to argue but then gave in. Rye watched as the group headed out with the purchases. He walked to the front of the store and knocked on Helen's office door. It was quickly answered. "That was quite a purchase Angel," Helen smiled. "That's just my stage name, my real name is Rye Encoke," Rye said, "I was wondering if you would like to do something a little special." Helen looked questioningly at Rye and nodded. - Briefly at the Van - "Hey guys this is Corey. He helped us out after some old guy was mean to us," Bryan supplied briefly. "What do you mean was mean to you?" Shane asked immediately. "Me and Angel were holding hands and this guy looked at us like we were dirty and wouldn't help us. He did everything but call us fags. Then Corey stepped in and helped us," Bryan said as he handed over bags. "Where's Angel now?" Nicky asked, concern evident in his voice. "Inside still for something. He's okay. Hey Corey you a fan?" Bryan asked as he turned to Corey. "Yeah big time. I saw you guys the other night you were amazing," Corey gushed. "Cool, we got some autographed stuff we always carry with us. We can give you some," Bryan said as he rooted around in the back of the van. "So is Angel really gay?" Corey asked. "Yep. And he is our best friend," Nicky said. "That's cool," Corey said then blurted, "I am too." Everyone stopped and looked at Corey who was blushing hard and breathing heavily. "Are we the first people you have told?" Shane asked. Corey nodded, tears falling from his eyes. "Feels good to finally say it doesn't it?" Andy asked. Corey nodded again. "I know when I finally told my mom we cried together for hours it seemed like," Andy said. Corey looked at Andy in surprise, "So you are Angel's boyfriend?" "No he is my boyfriend," Matt said as he put his arm around Andy, shocking Corey more. "Angel's boyfriend is Mark. And we three are together as boyfriends," Bryan supplied. Shane and Nicky were in too much shock to even react. Between Andy and Bryan all of Westlife had basically been outed. "Wow. I won't tell anyone I promise," Corey said as he saw the faces of Shane and Nicky. Bryan looked at his lovers and giggled as he leaned over and kissed them both. "It's alright, we don't really care any more remember?" he whispered to them both. "How's everything going here?" Rye asked. "Not bad, just getting autographed stuff for Corey and explaining who all is who's lover," Bryan explained. Rye nodded and smiled, "Get an extra two of everything for Helen's daughters as well." "Okay," came Bryan's voice from behind the seat. "I take it you are gay?" Rye asked of Corey. "How did you know?" Corey asked. "My boys have a habit of telling any other gay man they come across about us all," Rye smiled. "I won't tell anyone I promise. I would hate for anyone to tell on me," Corey said. "It's okay. At this point we don't really care any more. Mark and I will be coming out publicly soon any way. Listen, Helen and you are gonna be joining us at an event tomorrow so we will see you again then. But for now we are off to the amusement park," Rye said as Byran began to load stuff into Corey's arms. "Wow thanks, uh okay seeya tomorrow and have fun," Corey said as everyone piled into the van and drove off leaving him standing there. A touch on his shoulder made Corey turn and smile at Helen. "Wow," Corey said as his face broke into a huge smile. "You have no idea how wow. We have lots to discuss Corey come on in to the office," Helen said as the two began to walk back to the store, "James has been fired. I know you don't want full time because of school, but head office has allowed me to put you on commission as a part timer. You just made about $2000 on that sale. Hey is some of that stuff for me?" Helen had just realized what Corey was carrying. "Yeah there is supposed to be three of everything, one for me an one each for Sara and Jess," Corey said as he looked down at shirts, cd's and posters all crammed into his arms. "The girls are gonna love you Corey. After taking them to the concert last night and then managing to get all this stuff for them plus going to see the MTV interview with us tomorrow..." "What?" Corey interrupted. "Yeah let me tell you about it in the office then you can work with me for the rest of your shift to get some things set up," Helen said as she started Corey moving again. "Listen Corey if anyone ever gives you a hard time on the floor about you being gay you just let me know right away. It's not just me who won't stand for that, it's our company policy." Again Corey stopped dead in his tracks. Helen realized Corey was not beside her and turned to look at him. "Oh Corey I'm sorry. It's just the girls figured you were and I have always sort of thought it myself. I just figured you were out," Helen said. "No I'm not. I mean I am. I mean I am gay, I'm not out," Corey stammered. "It's okay, come on let's go look at our goodies," Helen started Corey moving one more time and led him into the store. - On The Road Again - "I think we need some rules about who and when we tell people about us," Shane said as soon as the doors were all closed. "Don't be mad Boyo. Corey was cool and he came out to us first," Bryan said and put on a puppy dog face as he lay his head in Shane's lap and looked up at him. Shane couldn't help but laugh but said, "It was cool this time but you didn't ask any of us, including Angel and Fella before you did it." "I know what you are saying Boyo, but let's just let it go. Bry boy has some good instincts I think. I know Mark would shout it in the parking lot if he felt he could but he wants to do it right. He has some plans already I think for our coming out. But the individuals like this, in special circumstances, let's just go with our gut okay?" Rye asked gently of Shane. Shane looked thoughtful and everyone watched him. Finally he smiled, "Alright alright, it's just hard to get used to telling complete strangers when even our own families don't know yet. But Angel is right, you have good instincts Bry boy. I mean you were right about Paul and Trevor after all. And you were right about being ourselves at Friends and Family." "See I am the smart one after all not just the pretty one," Bryan smiled up at Shane. "Hey I thought I was the pretty one," Nicky said. "And I *AM* the smart one," Shane giggled. "Well then what am I?" Bryan asked. "You're the funny one," Nicky supplied. "Okay, but I would rather be the pretty one," Bryan pouted. "You are the well-hung one also," Andy whispered over the seat to Bryan who blushed brightly. "And you are ours," Nicky said softly as he placed a kiss on Bryan's lips to be followed immediately by Shane. - Mark and the Gang - "That was amazing Fella. Rye is gonna just die," Jill said. "I hope not," Mark laughed as he sipped on his coffee. Everyone had taken a break after Mark's initial plans had been completed and were relaxing in a small coffee shop. "You know he is gonna cry?" Kian asked. "I know, it's okay I will too," Mark smiled again. "Okay where to next?" Jay asked. "I need to find a restaurant that will suit," Mark said. "How are we even going to start that, I mean are we going to search the whole city?" Jill asked. "Well sort of yeah. I have a couple of ideas of what I want so it's narrowed down a bit. But I brought the yellow pages so that should help," Mark said softly feeling a bit down. Jill threw her arms across his shoulder, "I'm sorry Fella, I didn't mean it like it sounded. I want this as much as you do and we will make it special for you both." Mark nodded around a sudden lump in his throat. "Okay well fill us in a bit on how you want the night to go then let's go looking for the perfect place," Kian said as he slipped his hand into Mark's. Mark outlined how he wanted the evening to go and the group of friends listened intently. Ed, who was a softie at heart had to brush away tears from his eyes every now and then and silently Jay swore to do the same thing for his man at some point later in their relationship. "Oh my God Mark, this is going to be the most incredible night ever. Let's go find you the perfect spot and I will make the calls necessary for you," Jill said as she reached for her cell phone. "Thanks guys, I knew I could count on you all," Mark said happily, smiling once again. "We all love you and Angel, we would do anything for either of you," Kian said. "That goes for all of us I think," Jay said as he smiled across the table at Mark and slipped his hand into Ed's. Ed nodded as well and smiled first at Mark then at Jay. - The Artist Formerly Known as Paul - Trevor awoke feeling safer and happier than he had ever felt in his life. His beautiful lover had made love to him last night and they had lain in each others arms crying and laughing together until sleep finally took them. He realized immediately that Paul was not in bed with him. He stretched himself and felt a dull pain which caused him to stop immediately. "A little sore?" Paul asked softly as he slipped into bed behind Trevor. "A little. But it was so wonderful. I wish we had known before so that we could have been sharing this from the beginning," Trevor said as Paul's arms came around him and held him gently. "I know Tre, but we know now. I wanted to thank you for last night. It was beyond special. It is the one moment in my life I will never forget. No matter what happens in the rest of my life I will always look back on last night as the most special night of my life," Paul whispered into Trevor's neck as he nuzzled him lovingly. "You smell of paint," Trevor giggled. "I've been busy," Paul said. "How long have you been up?" Trevor asked as he carefully rolled over to take his lover into his arms. "About 4 hours. I couldn't sleep, inspiration hit me," Paul smiled and kissed the tip of Trevor's nose. "When can I see it?" Trevor asked. "After we shower," Paul said. "It's done?" Trevor asked in surprise. "Yep." Paul stood and helped Trevor stand. "I am going to want to check you to make sure you aren't hurt or anything." "I am okay, you were so gentle. More gentle than I was. I must have hurt you when I made love to you the first time," Trevor said as he gained his feet. "I had practiced so it was fairly painless," Paul admitted. "Oh I hadn't thought of that. Well I am okay. Actually there is no painat all now that I am up," Trevor said as he let Paul lead him to the shower. The two men spent a great deal of time washing and caressing each other. Paul, true to his word, inspected Trevor carefully to make sure there was no damage. "Can I see your painting now DJ?" Trevor asked bringing a smile to Paul's face at the use of the new nickname. "Yeah come on Tre," Paul almost dragged Trevor to the studio. Both men stopped when they saw Maria sitting on a chair in the middle of the studio staring at the canvas. The canvas was one of the big ones, six foot by four foot, and was turned so that Trevor could not yet see it. Maria turned to look at them, "It's the most beautiful thing I have ever seen." "Maria?" Trevor asked. He was concerned for her as she had tears rolling down her face and seemed almost in a daze. She smiled at him though so his immediate concern was somewhat alleviated. "I will go get lunch while you look at the painting, then I suggest getting dressed," Maria said as she walked by the two boys who were still only in towels. Trevor smiled at Paul's blush then turned to move and look at the painting. Words failed him and his mind was engulfed by feelings of awe and love. He just stared at the painting. It was beyond beautiful. It was a picture of the two of them as they rested in each others arms after their lovemaking. The rich deep greens of the bedding against the flesh tones made for a remarkable scene. The expressions of love had been captured wonderfully. Trevor could feel the tears streaming down his face but he couldn't move to wipe them. He couldn't move at all, he was spellbound. He felt Paul's arms come around him and hold him but still he could not move. He wasn't even sure he was breathing. "Tre?" Paul finally asked. Trevor nodded to let Paul know he had heard him. "Do you like it?" Paul asked. Trevor finally turned to look into his lover's eyes, "It's the second most beautiful thing I have ever seen." "Second?" Paul asked with a smile knowing what his lover was going to answer. "You are number one of course. What do you call it?" Trevor asked. "I call it composition in oil on canvas number three," Paul said seriously then laughed at the look on Trevor's face. "It's called 'Love Finds a Home'." Trevor nodded. "Come on babies, lunch is ready," Maria called. The boys decided to not change into clothes but went to the kitchen still in towels. Maria had set three places and was already sitting down. "That's an incredible painting Paul," Maria said as the boys took their seats and dug in. "Thanks Maria," Paul blushed. "If all your paintings are like that you are going to be a very famous and very rich man," Maria said. "I'm not selling that one though, that's for us," Paul said as he dropped his fork onto his plate. "Of course it is baby, but when the boys get back you will have to have a party and show it off. Let's make sure you have enough time to paint. If that means cutting down on your hours at the club that's fine," Maria said as she took another mouthful of omelette. "This is great Maria, you are gonna have to teach us how to cook like this," Trevor said. "If I did that then there would be no excuse to come over," Maria said then stopped and hung her head a bit. "Maria what's wrong?" Paul asked as he took hold of her hand. "I miss Andy," she said simply. "He will be back soon. Just another couple of weeks and you will have both him and Matt with you," Trevor said as he took her other hand. It had been decided that Matt and Andy were going to move into the house with Maria so they could all be one big happy family. But Maria was feeling the loss of her son at the moment. "And Maria you never need an excuse to come over here. We love you. You have been a better mother to us in these last few days and given us more love than we have received in our entire lifetimes," Paul said. "Thank you babies. I guess I was just feeling a little down," Maria said. "It's true Maria you can come here any time day or night for whatever reason you want. Do you know what Tre and I call you. We call you Mother Maria because you look after us so well. We say it jokingly but also with love. How about we make it official and call you mom from now on?" Paul asked. Maria smiled widely and nodded, "Now eat up. What do you have planned for the day since you don't work till late tonight." "I wanted to go look at the art store. I am out of green," Paul smiled brightly. "Hey do you have to go in to work early today mom? I wanted to go shopping for some clothes and I need help," Trevor asked. "Sure, sounds like fun," Maria said, "you guys get dressed while I put the dishes to soak." The guys left to get dressed while Maria tinkered around in the kitchen. Her mind was filled with happiness. It was true she was missing Andy but she had new boys to fill her life. She had been feeling a little out of sorts, like she wasn't needed any more now that Andy had Matt. These two boys had filled that gap, they needed so much love. "Hey Paul, do you think we could come up with something special for the boys for when they get back?" Maria called out. "Yeah sure, I sort of was thinking of the same thing but have no idea what to do," Paul called out. "We'll think of something. Come on babies let's hit the mall," Maria yelled as she grabbed her keys. - Fun and Games - "Well someone has to go with me I don't want to go alone that's no fun at all," Bryan pouted. Everyone shook their heads. The bungee shot looked terrifying and nobody wanted to do it. It was basically a seat for two on a bungee cord that you got into, it then shot up into the sky and fell back down. You bounced a few times on the cord before a mechanism grabbed on and reeled you back in. "Okay let's do it this way then, Matt will pick a number and the closest to that number has to go," Andy suggested. "No let Alex or Carl pick the number so Matt has to guess too," Bryan encouraged. He really wanted to take them all with him. He was having a blast acting like a big kid and laughing and screaming on all the rides. "Okay I got a number," Alex grinned as Matt turned a glare at him, "between 1 and 30." Everyone guessed their numbers. "Okay the number was 27 so that's you Matt," Alex smiled widely. "Ummm...okay," Matt relented and followed behind a jumping Bryan to the line. "I can't believe he is doing this," Andy said as they watched the two men being strapped in, "he is scared to death of heights." "What!" everyone turned to look at Andy who just nodded. Everyone turned around to try and stop the ride but were too late as the pair were launched into the air. Shane and Rye quickly brought the video cameras up to record the event. Watching the screen they could see Bryan laughing and screaming. Matt on the other hand looked pale and on the downward fall they saw him pass out. On the second bounce the mechanism grabbed the chair and Bryan turned to laugh with Matt and saw he had passed out. Everyone went to Matt and got him out of the chair. They could see that he had wet himself as well and everyone's heart fell. "Oh no!" Bryan said as he began to cry. "Let's sit him down there until he wakes up then we can take him to the van," Rye said. "I'm sorry," Bryan said again. He hadn't stopped apologizing since they had removed Matt from the chair. He wasn't saying it to anyone in particular just to everyone. It was Andy who came to his rescue. "It's okay Bry boy. He knew he was scared of heights, he could have said no. He probably thought it would be okay or something," Andy said as he slipped his arm around Bryan's waist. "He's scared of heights? Why didn't he just say no?" Bryan asked through his tears. "I don't know," Andy said. "Because I didn't want to disappoint you," Matt said weakly as he regained consciousness. "Don't do that," Bryan said angrily and punched Matt not too gently on the chest. "Ooomph.....okay sorry," Matt blushed. "Okay let's head back to the hotel then," Nicky said. "No we can stay, I'm okay now," Matt argued. "Sorry big guy I guess you just haven't realized it yet but you had an accident," Rye said quietly. Matt looked down at himself and blushed brightly. "It's okay, I would have wet myself too. If I had lost I still wouldn't have gone on that thing," Shane said. "There isn't a change of clothes in the van but there are all kinds of gift shops at the front of the park. Someone go grab me a pair of pants or shorts or something and I can change in the washroom," Matt said. "You want to stay?" Nicky asked. "Yeah we were having a great time before I went off all goofy. I just need to change and we can go back to having fun," Matt said. Andy and Alex took off to the front of the park and found a pair of cargo shorts that would fit Matt and ran it back. In a little under 20 minutes since they had got on the ride Matt was back with the group in his new shorts and laughing with the group again. Bryan however was very subdued and Matt noticed. "You okay Bryan?" Matt asked as he slung an arm around Bryan's shoulders. "Yeah," Bryan said quietly. "Liar. Don't let it get you down. None of that was your fault and even if it was I would have forgiven you," Matt said. "I guess," Bryan said half heartedly. Matt stopped walking and turned Bryan to face him. Everyone else stopped as well. "Listen Bryan. I'm a big boy. I could have said no. I wanted to go on that with you. We were all having so much fun and I loved the way you were so excited and I thought I could handle it. I was wrong. But I want the fun to keep going. So if you don't snap out of it and go back to being the big goofy kid again I am going to have to hurt you," Matt said forcefully but also with kindness. "Okay okay...geez don't get your panties in a bunch," Bryan grinned. "Can't, they only bought me pants and no underwear so now I am going commando," Matt smiled and wiggled his eyebrows. Bryan laughed out loud and hugged Matt then shouted, "Look, bumper cars." Everyone laughed and followed behind as Bryan dragged Matt to the next ride. They spent the next half hour laughing and driving into each other. Finally the operators told them they had to go to the back of the line since too many people were waiting to get on now. Everyone moaned but left the ride behind them. "That was so much fun," Shane laughed as he moved to take Bryan into a hug. Alex stepped in between the two of them quickly, "Just a friendly hug there Shane." Shane's initial reaction was anger but quickly disappeared as he realized that he had almost kissed Bryan in public. Instead he threw an arm around Bryan and one around Alex. "Thanks Alex," he said quietly. Alex nodded. "Hey look games. Let's see if we can all win something," Nicky pointed to the stalls. The group moved forward to try their chances at the games. - Back at the Hotel - "Wow I am exhausted, who would've thought that running around to restaurants would take so much out of you," Kian said. "Thanks again guys I really appreciate it all," Mark said to everyone as he threw himself down into a chair. "We had fun really. It was so nice hanging out with you all," Jay said as he seated himself and pulled Ed down to him. "So next weekend it will all happen. The Big Date," Jill said it with a smile. "Yep. I just hope I can keep it all secret until then," Mark said then turned as they heard the rest of the gang coming in. "Wow, good timing," Kian laughed. "Hey guys, you missed out on so much fun," Bryan nearly shouted as he threw himself onto Mark's lap. "Did you remember my candy apple?" Mark asked with a laugh. "We did, but I ate it on the way home. Here maybe you can still taste it," Bryan said as he kissed Mark deeply. Everyone laughed at the antics of Bryan. When the kiss was broken Mark smacked his lips. "Nope can't taste it," Mark said. "Ah well, then you can have one from that bag," Bryan pointed. "Did you all fill up on junk or are we ordering supper?" Jill asked. "Let's get supper. I really feel like chinese food tonight. Anyone else up for that?" Rye asked. Everyone agreed. "Ummm...are we staying?" Ed asked quietly. "Of course you are big guy. You are just gonna have to get used to the fact you are part of the gang now and you have to do all the stuff we do," Rye smiled. "Oh okay," Ed smiled back. "If you want to. It's always up to you, but you are always welcome. We all think of you as friends," Jill clarified. "So where's my surprise?" Rye asked as he sat next to Mark and pulled Bryan across to lay across both their laps. "I had to figure it all out. The surprise isn't until next weekend," Mark answered. "Next weekend? I can't wait that long," Rye pouted. "Yes you can and you will," Jill scolded. Everyone laughed. Mark reached over to kiss Rye but at the last moment bent down and kissed Bryan instead. This caused more laughter. "Okay let's set up the cameras so we can show these guys what they missed," Nicky said. "Hey where did you get all the cameras from?" Jill asked as she watched them being pulled from bags. "From the electronics store down the street. They were so expensive but so worth it," Bryan said as he handed another camera to Nicky who was setting stuff up. "Yeah we met some nice people at the store. They are going to come to the interview tomorrow and give out gift certificates to some of the audience and going to take a bunch of cd's with them back to the store, signed of course, to sell for charity," Rye said. "Yeah Corey is great. He is the guy who helped us. He's gay too so I ended up telling him about us all. He was great and so was Helen, but that first guy James, what a prick. Just cuz me and Angel were holding hands he looked at us like we were shit," Bryan said. "What?" Mark asked, trying to keep the tremor from his voice. "When we first went in these two were holding hands and this older guy, James, saw it and refused to help us. Then this young guy Corey came up and helped us out with everything. He was great. Very cute. In the parking lot he told us he was gay, we are the first people to know. Bryan there decided since Corey was being so open that he would just fill him in on everything, explaining who all was with who. Shocked the hell out of Shane and Nicky," Matt laughed. The tapes started to play and everyone was engrossed in the scenes and laughing. All but one. Mark's mind was not on the scenes in front of him. His eyes began to fill with tears and he quietly got up and left to the bedroom. He was followed immediately though and had only just got his door closed when it opened again. "Fella?" ...to be continued MORE AUTHOR'S NOTES okay okay...I hate cliffhangers too....but I swear the next chapter will be out no later than two weeks....it is almost complete now so it should be quick. This chapter went through 5 or 6 rewrites. I kept changing things, coming up with different ideas and stuff. This chapter was very important as it sets up some stuff to happen in the next few chapters. I am very happy with this chapter now and am re-energized in my writing. SO CAST YOUR VOTE NOW AS TO WHO YOU WANT TO BE THE ONE WHO FOLLOWED MARK INTO THE BEDROOM....MOST OF THE CHAPTER IS WRITTEN BUT THIS SCENE IS STILL OPEN....VOTE NOW....