Three Strikes
 

It was a month after Michael had run with Hunter. Ben was lonely and angry and scared, Michael’s too few phone calls and childish elation over doing what he believed in wearing him to a frayed thread. Zephyr was on a mission and Ben was left behind to battle his own way through the hordes of evil-doers trying to take Hunter away from them.

Ben cursed the comic books that surrounded him. He resented the hours spent at the shop staring at the ridiculously muscle-bound superheroes clad in tights and capes, followed by the hours spent with villains in suits and ties. The bloodthirsty lawyers and embittered court appearances left him raw and aching until one night, unexpected relief came.

“Emmett?” Ben muttered in surprise when he saw the other man peering back at him through the peephole. He willed his fluttering stomach to still, though given the hour he thought he was allowed a ‘dead in the ditch’ panic attack, and gratefully opened the door.

Looking at him more closely, he realized Emmett was exhausted and disheveled and again his mind raced through any number of accidents Michael and Hunter had been in. Had Emmett been delegated to come tell him?

“Hi,” Emmett greeted him with obviously forced cheerfulness, extending a bottle of wine and a covered dish. He noted Ben’s slight slump against the door and his smile wavered slightly. “Is this,” Emmett’s eyes grazed over Ben’s damp skin and the towel clutched tightly around his waist, “a bad time?” he asked, but didn’t wait for an answer as he slipped through the half-opened door and bustled into the kitchen. “I thought you might be hungry.”

Ben’s reply that it was almost midnight died on his lips as he closed the door and followed the sound of cupboards being whisked opened and closed and dishes clattering against the counter. Emmett jerked the cork out of the wine and quickly poured a glass, splashing some over the sides, then gulped it down and leaned against the sink with his head hung for a moment.

“Emmett?”

Emmett’s head flew up again and he refilled his glass before pouring a second for Ben and handing it to him. “Chin, chin,” he bubbled, though his voice fell flat.

Ben gently pulled Emmett’s glass back down from his mouth. “Do you want to tell me what we’re toasting too first?”

Emmett’s hand was shaking in his, but the other man still tried to keep a lid on whatever was festering inside. “Another fabulous party, sweetie! But it would really be a shame to let these leftovers go to waste you know.” He twisted around and reached for the food, his fingers scratching desperately at the rim of the platter until it slid forward. With a flourishing ‘voila’ the lid flew away to reveal an assortment of antipasto. He popped a cube of cheese into his mouth and washed it down with a generous gulp of wine, waving at Ben. “Go on, eat up,” he encouraged as he poured himself yet another glass.

“Ah, Emmett,” Ben set his glass down and pushed the tray away, “it’s midnight and I’m tired. Can we just skip ahead to you telling me what you’re really doing here?”

Emmett laughed nervously as he reached for the dishrag, wringing the life out of it, and wiped up the wine he’d spilled earlier. “Are all you bookish types so suspicious?” he tried to tease. “I was just on my way home and saw the light on.” He moved on from the spill to wipe the rest of the counter, including behind the canisters lined against the wall. “I know it’s been hard for you since Michael’s been gone and I thought you might like some company,” he pushed the tray aside and wiped underneath it, “and a little something to munch on that isn’t---” He frowned when Ben’s hand covered his.

“Emmett.”

Emmett blew out a breath and looked up sheepishly. He tilted his head to the side and smiled wanly, “I thought maybe I could sleep on the couch?”

Ben’s brows furrowed. “Uh, sure… something wrong with your place?” With his business taking off, Emmett was able to move into his own apartment a few weeks ago.

Emmett’s smile tightened until it cracked. “It has a great big rat outside.”

Ben blinked at him. “I’m sure it won’t get inside--” he started.

Emmett’s eyes flashed. “No, he won’t. Not ever again. I just need a place to crash tonight. Hopefully if he thinks I’m seeing someone else because I didn’t go home--”

Suddenly everything clicked and Ben sighed as he squeezed Emmett’s hand. Ted was the rat. Ben wasn’t surprised really. Ted had only been out of rehab a few days and spent every waking moment trying to get Emmett to give him another chance, despite everyone else’s insistence that he back off and just concentrate on staying clean. Even Brian had put in his two cents, in his own charming Kinney way.

“It’s alright, Emmett,” Ben cut in. It was more than alright. He was actually relieved to talk to someone who had his own problems and wasn’t badgering him about Michael. Ben grabbed a piece of cheese and ate it to show his willingness to have company. “Why don’t you take the food and wine into the living room while I get dressed. Then we’ll talk.”

Emmett waved a dismissive hand at him. “Nothing to talk about. I know you were getting ready for bed. I’ll just grab a couple blankets from the closet and--”

“Actually, I’m awake now so I’m going to need a little wine to put me out again,” Ben replied. “Be right back.”

He left Emmett to transfer their impromptu party to the end table by the sofa and went to the bedroom. He slid on a pair of flannel pajama pants and a T-shirt, and took the towel to the bathroom to hang up. When he turned to flick the light off, he caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror and remembered he hadn’t combed his hair.

“Mind if I turn on the stereo?” Emmett asked.

“No,” Ben replied, “but it’s unplugged.” He just ran his fingers through his hair to untangle any snarls as he went to the bookcase and reached behind to find the cord for the stereo.

Emmett surprised him by reaching out while Ben was kneeling and running his fingers over Ben’s nape. Ben was even more surprised by the jolt that sizzled through his gut and made his cock twitch. He hoped it was just an errant electrical current from the outlet as he jammed the plug in.

“It’s getting long,” Emmett said. “I can take care of that for you.”

Ben rocked back on to his heels, face warming. “I—what?” he stammered.

“I used to cut everyone’s hair back in Hazelhurst. They didn’t have much use for me in general, but when they wanted to save a few bucks, why not just have the fairy do it?”

“Emmett--”

The other man’s long fingers feathered through his hair, pushing it back from his forehead. “Come on,” Emmett insisted, taking his arm and pulling him to the table. “It’ll be fun. Besides, nothing will help you sleep better than a little scalp massage. Makes your eyelids melt right down.”

Ben couldn’t deny the little tingle his skin had from Emmett’s earlier rubbing felt good and he let himself be maneuvered to the chair. He sat waiting while Emmett darted to the bathroom. What the hell, if it made Emmett forget his own problems for a while… He touched the back of his neck again. It was getting long.

He heard Emmett searching through the cupboards and stood to help him, but Emmett quickly reappeared with a glass of water, scissors, a comb, and a towel. “I used to live here,” he reminded Ben in answer to his questioning gaze.

“Right,” Ben laughed and sat back down.

“Take your shirt off,” Emmett said.

Ben’s mouth fell open. “I—excuse me?”

Emmett clucked at him. “So modest.” He held out the towel. “Don’t want to get hair on your shirt or you’ll itch all night.”

“Right,” Ben repeated, even more embarrassed by his assumption in the face of Emmett’s proficient manner. He quickly pulled his shirt over his head and ignored Emmett’s fingers grazing his chest as he wrapped the towel around his shoulders and secured it with a safety pin.

“There. Now you close your eyes and relax while I tame this mane. Just keep your head straight.” Emmett gently turned his head where he wanted it and patted him on the shoulder.

Ben gladly obliged. If Emmett wanted to work quietly and sort out his own problems Ben would let him. The last thing he needed to do was put his foot in his mouth again.

Yeah, Ben needed a few minutes to sort out his own thoughts as well.

The even, soothing scrape of the comb and soft snip of the scissors soon had him relaxed and floating on the edge of consciousness. He was vaguely aware of Emmett moving around him, sometimes feeling the cool silk of his shirt graze against his arm. Warm fingers brushing his cheeks.

In the back of his mind, where the thoughts started to jumble again, he could feel arousal and guilt battling each other. But Ben was an educated, experienced man and he knew what was happening. He understood the natural response to the attention he was getting, particularly after feeling… abandoned. Emmett was a caring, attractive man, much like Michael. That was why they were friends. So there was no harm in him receiving and giving solace with their friend. Emmett needed someone to be with tonight and so did he.

Suddenly Emmett blew gently in his ear and Ben jumped. His eyes popped open and he saw Emmett leaning over him, squeezing his shoulder. “Sorry,” the other man chuckled as he swiped at the stray hairs clinging to Ben’s ear.

“No problem, just a little whiplash,” Ben joked lamely around his dry tongue. Ignoring Emmett’s body heat radiating against his skin and the scent of patchouli and citrus suddenly wafting from him, he leaned back in the chair and reached up to rub the sharp crick in his neck.

Emmett cupped his chin and straightened his head again. “That should help,” he offered as he brushed Ben’s hair back again to check his work.

Ben didn’t realize he’d spread his knees until Emmett stepped between them, presumably to get a closer stance and trim the hair on top. When their legs bumped together, Ben gasped at the heat burning his thigh.

Emmett’s hands froze and he took a step back. “Oh, I--”

Ben glanced up at him, reading the desire and shame mirroring his own gaze.

“It’s nothing,” Ben lied, reaching for his neck again, “just another crick.”

Emmett’s hands trembled as he set the comb and scissors down and rubbed his palms over his pants. “Here,” his fingers slid around Ben’s neck as he hesitantly stepped closer again. “Let me.” When his voice cracked he cleared his throat. “I’ll get that kink out in a jiff.”

Ben’s eyes slid shut at the first touch, and surprisingly Emmett’s sure skillful kneading quelled the flurry of butterflies in his belly. He’d just managed to convince himself that it meant nothing when he noticed Emmett’s legs were quaking between his. Ben automatically reached up to steady him and Emmett’s arms slid around his back pulling him closer… for support.

With his face pressed against Emmett’s abdomen, Ben could smell his cologne again, and the faint scent of leather from his pants. The leather was soft beneath his hands as they clutched Emmett’s hips and the silk of Emmett’s shirt was soft against his cheek. Everything was so… soft… and warm…

“Oh… I, uh…we’re done.” Emmett’s hands were patting at his back haphazardly as he pulled away. Ben reluctantly let go, what he’d done seeping in. Emmett was avoiding his gaze, dumping the comb and scissors in the glass and carrying it to the bathroom.

Shocked, Ben watched him go and then removed the towel from around his neck and followed him. He had to make this right--not that they’d done anything wrong, but Emmett was obviously upset.

Emmett was leaning against the sink, staring blankly at the mirror. Ben startled him when he hung the towel on the rack beside him and Emmett whirled around crashing into him. Their arms tangled together to steady themselves and each other, faces pressed close together. So close, Ben could feel Emmett’s hitching breath against his lips. And Emmett’s hands set on his chest. But not pushing, just sitting there. “Emmett--”

“Too much wine just goes straight to this old girl’s head these days,” Emmett twittered, though still not moving. “I certainly didn’t mean to over step--”

“You didn’t. I did,” Ben replied, unable to stop himself from leaning closer.

Their lips were almost touching when Emmett’s eyes widened in panic and he ducked out Ben’s grasp. “We can’t. Michael--”

“Michael’s not here,” Ben shot back angrily, surprising them both.

Emmett recovered first and shook his head sympathetically. “I know how alone you must feel--”

“You have no idea,” Ben sighed, stuffing the anger back down again. No one did.

“Hello? My boyfriend was a lying, cheating, rat who kept sneaking off for little weekend getaways with his drug buddies. I never knew where he was or if he was alive. You two may not be able to be together now, but you know Michael loves you-- ”

“And Ted loves you. But it isn’t enough is it? Isn’t that why you’re here now, avoiding him?” Ben asked.

Emmett’s face turned to stone and he straightened his shoulders. “We aren’t talking about me, we’re talking about you and my best friend. How dare you give up on him now when he needs you? He took Hunter to save him and protect him because he’s part of your family now--”

“He took Hunter to show Brian he’s a good sidekick,” Ben shouted. “Michael is so wrapped up in that fucking comic book he doesn’t understand real life has consequences. Real families stay together to fight, not abandon each other for a goddamn joyride. While they’re out having their little adventure, I’m the one who has to deal with the shit here.”

Emmett gaped at him. “My god, Ben, I--”

Ben just waved him off and stormed out to the living room.

“Ben, wait,” Emmett pleaded, following on his heels.

Ben stopped and sank onto the sofa, his head buried in his hands. “I’m sorry.”

“No, I had no right--”

Ben slowly lifted his head, but his eyes remained on the floor. “You had every right, I was out of line. I was trying to justify cheating on my boyfriend with his best friend.”

Emmett sat down next to him and nudged Ben’s shoulder with his. “Oh, sweetie, I wasn’t exactly innocent here,” he confessed. “I came over because I knew you were alone. It’s been a long time since I’ve been with anyone and I’m not even interested in a random trick right now, I just wanted to be with someone that I could let my hair down with and still be… safe.” He playfully ran his fingers over Ben’s bicep. “A little taste of a hot stud muffin without any annoying calories, so to speak.” He smiled when Ben did, but then sighed and dropped his hand. “But I didn’t expect…” He gave Ben an apologetic glance, “…I didn’t think about how you were really feeling. We’ve been so wrapped up in Michael’s drama--”

“It doesn’t matter,” Ben cut him off, chastely patting his knee as he stood.

Emmett grabbed his hand, the touch causing sparks Ben was trying hard to squelch, and retorted, “Of course it does.”

Ben shook his head, gently pulling free. “No matter what anyone says or does now it isn’t going to change the fact that Michael and I are in trouble.”

“Ben--”

“Look,” Ben held up his hands, “Emmett, you have to stop. I want you so badly right now--”

“You do?” Emmett gasped.

Ben couldn’t help smiling. “Yes. Why are you so surprised? You’re a beautiful, intelligent, talented, and loving man, Emmett. Anyone would be proud to be with you.”

Emmett’s eyes welled up and he laughed awkwardly, wiping at the tears threatening to spill. “That’s the sweetest thing anyone has said to me in a long time.”

“I’m glad.”

“But we can’t.”

“I know.”

“Michael--”

“Yes.”

Emmett stood and moved closer to him, but didn’t reach out. “Thank you.”

Ben nodded. “You’re welcome. And thank you. Now I’m going to bed.”

“Right,” Emmett bit his lip for a moment. “Maybe I should--”

“It’s late,” Ben said. “You can stay in Hunter’s room.”

Emmett nodded and started for his old room.

“Emmett,” Ben called after him, “I didn’t mean what I said earlier about Ted, I mean the way it sounded. About you avoiding him. I understand. You stood by him through some terrible things and we know you did everything you could. No one expects you to do anymore.”

“Like you said,” Emmett replied. “Sometimes love just isn’t enough. Sometimes you have to make decisions based on what’s best for you…and fuck everyone else.” Then he winked and shut the bedroom door.

 

***
 

It had taken Ben hours to fall asleep, his mind churning over what had happened earlier. Then when he’d finally dozed off, it seemed like he’d only slept a few minutes before someone opened the bedroom door and woke him up again. He rolled over, reaching for the lamp. “Emmett? Something wrong?”

“What the fuck?” Michael shouted, dropping his bags on the floor.

“Michael?” Ben blinked, rubbing his eyes. “Keep your voice down, Emmett’s sleeping in the other room.”

“Oh.” Michael sat down on the bed next to him. It was all Ben could to do keep himself from moving to the other side. When Michael reached out and touched his thigh, Ben gritted his teeth.

Hunter appeared in the doorway with Emmett in tow. “What the fuck’s he doing in my bed?”

“Just what I was about to ask,” Michael replied.

“Emmett needed a place to stay for the night,” Ben told them as he pulled himself up and looked at the clock. The display read 6:15.

“Something wrong at the girls’?” Michael asked. His eyes widened. “With the baby?”

“I moved into my own place on the first,” Emmett said.

“The baby is fine,” Ben added. “I’m sure Mel will be happy to hear you asked.”

Michael looked chagrined for a moment. “I knew you would tell me if anything happened.”

“And what would you have done about it?” Ben seethed. This wasn’t the homecoming he’d imagined… a month ago.

“Hunter needed me,” Michael shot back defensively. “And Mel’s the one who told me to stop hovering around anyway.”

“Gee, it’s good to be home,” Hunter cut in sarcastically. “I’m outta here.”

“Where are you going?” Ben asked. “You need to get ready for school.”

“He needs to sleep,” Michael snapped. “We drove all night to get home. Not that you seem happy to see us.”

“I would’ve been happy two weeks ago,” Ben shouted back. “Before I got dragged through the mud because you refused to bring him back.”

“I didn’t trust her!”

“What about me? I was the one begging you to come home so it wouldn’t get any worse.”

“What’s worse--”

“Michael, it didn’t help our case any when you took him out of school for a month and he didn’t have his meds! That hardly makes us look like more responsible guardians! For all the judge knows, YOU were hustling his ass on the street!”

“How can you--?”

“Are you two going to be like this all the time?” Hunter asked. “’Cuz if you are, I’ll just find someplace else to stay.”

“The hell you will,” Michael yelled. “After everything I’ve been through you’re staying put!”

Ben cocked an eyebrow. “Everything you--?”

“Hunter,” Emmett cut in. “Why don’t I buy you breakfast and you can tell me all about your grand road trip.”

“Like I want to eat in another shitty diner?” Hunter sneered.

“Brian’ll be there,” Emmett added dryly.

“Their pancakes are okay,” Hunter replied and headed for the door.

“Give me a minute to change and I’ll come too,” Michael said.

Emmett frowned. “Michael--” he started, but he saw Ben angrily wave him off and he pursed his lips shut.

Michael glowered at his boyfriend before yanking a drawer open and pulling out a change of clothes. Emmett left the room and Ben followed without another word to Michael.

Hunter was in his room changing into something to see Brian in, so Emmett went to the bathroom to dress. He came out a moment later and handed Ben back the sweats and t-shirt he’d loaned him to sleep in. Their hands brushed and lingered together a moment longer before pulling away.

“Give it some time,” Emmett advised.

Ben closed his eyes for a moment then let out a slow breath. “I’m trying,” he muttered.

Emmett smiled. “You’re a good man.” He poked Ben in the chest with a sly grin. “And a hot stud muffin.”

Ben laughed and reached out to hug him. “Thanks.”

Emmett squeezed him back, then quickly let go. “Hey, uh, tell Michael I just remembered I have a breakfast meeting, okay?”

Ben knew he was lying, but let it slide. “Yeah, sure.” He didn’t blame Emmett for not wanting to witness the mother/son reunion at the diner. And Rage and Zephyr reunited. He walked Emmett to the door and ushered him out while he figured how much more grading he could get done by going to campus early. He certainly wasn’t going to the diner either. “See you soon,” he tossed out as an afterthought to Emmett’s retreating back. “I’m sure we’ll be having some kind of homecoming in the next day or two.”

Emmett paused and Ben regretted the bitterness tinging his words. But Emmett only said, “I’ll be there,” and disappeared down the hall.

 

***
 

It had been two weeks since Emmett spent the night at Ben and Michael’s. Since then, neither Rita or Michael and Ben had been granted custody of Hunter and the teen had been placed in a foster home. It wasn’t what any of them wanted, but the couple assigned to take Hunter in turned out to be more understanding and cooperative than anyone hoped for.

They encouraged Hunter to join a gay teens group at the GLC and suggested he look into a support group for HIV teens as well. He wasn’t interested, but they didn’t give up. Ben doubted he would ever agree, but he was grateful the couple wasn’t homophobic or endangering Hunter’s health. Hunter was allowed to work after school at Michael’s shop as long as he maintained his grades, and Ben and Michael were allowed to visit any time. Rita was also allowed supervised visitation but she had yet to see him since losing custody.

So now that Hunter’s safety wasn’t an issue, Michael and Ben were struggling to salvage their relationship. And judging by the strained silences and clipped words between them, it wasn’t going well, not that Emmett lamented the fact. But he did regret his own weakness and he did everything he could to avoid being tempted again.

Besides the homecoming party at Deb’s, Emmett hadn’t seen Ben beyond a few short run-ins at the diner. But that didn’t mean he hadn’t been thinking about him. He couldn’t stop. At first, Emmett had chalked it up to being lonely and frustrated because Ted was dredging up old feelings. But once Ted had finally been convinced to channel his energy inward and focus on himself, by Blake, the tweaked-out-twinkie-come-rehab- counselor, of ALL people, Emmett was left alone to sort through his own feelings and they kept leading back to Ben.

Which was definitely putting a strain on his friendship with Michael.

Emmett sank onto the barstool next to Justin and ordered another cosmo. Unfortunately, Woody’s was pretty quiet because it was still early and the move from the pool table to the bar wasn’t enough to drown out Michael’s complaining.

“He’s been sleeping on the sofa for the past week, and when they took Hunter to his new home Friday, Ben moved into his room,” Michael ranted.

“So, what’d you expect?” Brian asked as he lined up his shot.

“To sleep with my fucking boyfriend!”

“Well, clearly your boyfriend’s not fucking,” Brian pointed out. “So take your shot,” he tapped Michael’s cue with his, “or go shoot something else.” He gave a pointed look towards a trick at another table. “I won’t tell.”

“I don’t want anyone else, I want Ben,” Michael snapped.

“Then you should’ve thought of that before you ran off.”

Michael gaped at him. “You’re the one who told me sometimes you have to risk it all—fuck you, Brian! Because of your shit advice I’ve LOST it all!”

Emmett felt Justin tense next to him and put a hand on his arm.

“I don’t recall giving you any advice,” Brian said coolly as he turned his back and pretended to fiddle with his cue. After a moment he faced Michael again. “You made your own decision based on a piece of conversation, but you seemed to have tuned out the other part. You have to be willing to live with the consequences. And that, Mikey, is what’s sleeping in the other room.”

“You didn’t say--”

Brian raised an eyebrow. “Does Justin have to illustrate everything for you? I wasn’t selling everything I own because I thought it would get me into heaven.”

Emmett’s hand flew up to stifle a laugh at the image of Brian at the pearly gates trying to fuck St. Peter to get inside and Justin glared at him. He shrugged an apology and took a sip of his drink to hide his still curling lips.

Michael was staring at Brian incredulously and Emmett wondered if something was finally sinking in. He couldn’t help feeling bad for Michael. He understood Michael’s side and Ben’s side, but only because he’d been an outside observer. They needed to try and see each other’s side, but neither one was willing to make the first move.

Emmett swallowed hard around the dry lump forming in his throat. Now that Brian had maybe opened his eyes, which was another OLD issue all together, would Michael try to fix things with Ben?

Brian slipped his arm around his friend’s shoulder and pressed their foreheads together. “The little woman’s feeling neglected, so why are you here bitching at me when you should be home begging his forgiveness with flowers and shit.”

This time Justin couldn’t help himself and snorted out loud. “Romantic advice from Brian Kinney?” He turned to Emmett. “Isn’t that a sign of the apocalypse?”

Brian gave him an icy smile. “You’re going to think it’s the end of the world when I whip your ass later.”

Justin grinned cheekily and slumped against the bar with a feigned sigh of relief. “Whew! Everything’s still normal after all.”

“Little fucker,” Brian muttered and turned back to Michael. “So, why are you here?” he asked again.

“He took Hunter to a movie.”

“Why didn’t you go?”

“He didn’t want me to. He wanted some time with Hunter to himself.”

“Jesus Christ,” Brian groaned. “Who gets the kid in the divorce?”

“That’s not funny, Brian!”

“Who’s joking?” Brian took Michael’s cue and handed it to Justin. “Go home, Mikey, all this family discord is fucking with my game.”

“I thought fucking was your game,” Emmett quipped weakly on cue. He didn’t want any one to get suspicious because he missed something THAT obvious.

Brian smirked at him and Justin rolled his eyes.

“You’re right,” Michael sighed. “Maybe Ben and I can go out for a late supper or something. Just the two of us.”

Brian pecked him on the lips. “What a disgustingly hetero idea. You just might get laid tonight.”

Michael smiled optimistically. “I’ll see you guys tomorrow.”

Emmett smiled and nodded, praying he wouldn’t go to hell for praying Ben and Michael didn’t sleep together.

 

***
 

Two days later, Emmett understood the sage wisdom ‘be careful what you wish for—you just might get it’ from first hand experience.

“He’s gone,” Michael sobbed at the other end of the phone.

“What?” Emmett asked in shock. He couldn’t hear over the clattering pans of the hotel kitchen—or his pounding heart-- so he stepped into the service hall. “Michael, what do you mean he’s gone?”

“Ben moved out,” the other man sniffed.

Emmett’s knees weakened and he leaned against the wall before the first wave of nausea hit. How could he be happy his friend was miserable? “Sweetie, I’m sorry… what happened?” he asked, not really wanting to hear about it, but he did need to know something else. “Where is he going to go?”

“He said he would stay in a hotel for a few days until he sorted stuff out. I can’t lose him,” he cried desperately. “I totally fucked everything up. Do you think he’ll come back?”

Emmett bit his tongue to keep from asking which hotel and forced himself to focus on Michael’s feelings. “I don’t know. Is there anything I can do?”

“Can you come over?”

“Sweetie, I’m in the middle of a party,” Emmett told him, relieved he had an excuse. He couldn’t deal with Michael crying on his shoulder and he felt another pang of guilt. “Did you call Brian?”

“He’ll just want to take me to the Baths to get laid,” Michael groaned.

Emmett longed for it to be that easy. If he thought fucking a stranger would get Ben out of his system… Jesus, this wasn’t about him! “Listen, call Brian. Go to Babylon for a few hours and just to try forget about it for a while. Have a drink and dance. I’ll meet you when I’m done here and we’ll talk.”

 

***
 

For the next week, Emmett tried his best to support Michael without getting too deeply involved. Ben avoided the diner and bars so no one saw him and while everyone was consoling Michael, Emmett wondered who Ben was confiding in.

Eventually Michael and Ben talked a few times and the last time Ben said he wasn’t going back. It was over.

 

***
 

Emmett squirted the gel onto his fingers and smoothed it over his cheeks. He dabbed more onto his chin, nose, and forehead, and then spread it evenly over the rest of his face. Once the mask was applied, he slipped on his robe and went to the kitchen to make a cup of tea. He’d just put the kettle on the stove and was heading for the living room when there was a knock at the door.

Emmett sighed and looked longingly at the television before turning to the door. All he wanted was one night to himself, but it was too late to pretend he wasn’t home when anyone passing by could see his light on. He crossed his fingers, hoping it wasn’t Michael looking for more solace, and called, “Who is it?”

“Ben.”

Emmett excitedly opened the door with a bright smile that made the drying mask pull against his skin. When Ben saw him, Emmett was patting his face and frowning.

“Is this a bad time?” he asked. “I should’ve called--”

“Don’t be silly,” Emmett smiled again, more carefully, and took his arm to pull him inside. “If you don’t mind a little beauty secret between friends, I don’t.” He looked at the grocery bag Ben was toting from the store around the corner. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

Ben pulled out a bottle of wine and ready-made cheese and cracker platter from the store deli. “I thought you might be hungry.”

Emmett accepted the gifts and laughed. Since it was well after dinner, that was obviously a lie. “Well, I was just going to sit down to watch TV and this is the perfect accompaniment for any Bette Davis movie.” But as he led the way to the kitchen, he added, “How about you tell me why you’re really here though.”

Ben shrugged. “I saw the light on.”

Emmett eyed him warily as he turned off the stove and dumped the water from the kettle down the sink. “And?” he asked anxiously, dreading and hoping to hear Ben say it…

Ben jammed his hands into his pockets and leaned against the counter. His face was open and honest when he said, “I just wanted to see you.”

Emmett was grateful for the mask locking his features in place so the tension wouldn’t show on his face. “And here I am in all my glory--”

But the attempt at levity backfired when Ben misunderstood. “I shouldn’t have just shown up. I can see you want to be alone.”

“No, no,” Emmett rushed to cut him off. “I don’t mind. Really. I just felt like a little pampering. I even skipped out on a party tonight to have some time off. It’s been a long week.”

Ben nodded. “I know. Michael told me--”

Emmett held up a hand. “Stop. Please.”

Ben sighed and ran his fingers through his hair as he muttered, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to put you on the spot. I know you’re friends and—this was a really bad idea. I’m sorry.” He was about to leave when Emmett grabbed his arm.

“I don’t want you to leave.” Emmett let go of him and wrapped his arms around himself as he jumped off the precipice he’d been walking along for weeks. “And I don’t want to talk about Michael.” He looked away as he felt tears welling in his eyes. Hot fat tears of frustration that wouldn’t be held back anymore. “I’m a terrible friend. He’s miserable and I’m happy you’re not together anymore. He’ll never forgive me and I can’t lose another friend. After Ted…” a sob broke loose and his shoulders quaked as he struggled to hold himself together.

“Emmett,” Ben reached for him, but Emmett stepped back, shrugging him off. If Ben touched him now… like this…

Ben tried again and this time caught him against the refrigerator. Feeling Ben’s arm slide around his waist and soft lips kiss the back of his neck only made him cry harder. Ben gently turned him around and hugged him, large hands rubbing soothing circles over his back and Emmett couldn’t do anything but cling to his neck like a drowning man.

“You didn’t do anything wrong,” Ben whispered. “You’re a good friend.”

The mask slowly started to dissolve and Emmett felt the tightness against his skin, in his chest, easing.

When the tears started to ebb, Ben stroked his hair and lifted his head. Both hands cupped his face and he kissed each eyelid. Emmett kept his eyes closed, too exhausted to fight anymore, and waited. But instead of another kiss, he heard the sink running. Ben wet the towel on the counter and used it to wipe away the rest of the face mask.

Emmett shifted uncomfortably, averting his eyes. Feeling too raw and exposed, too guilty for enjoying the attention, he pushed Ben’s hand away after a moment. Ben let him slip back a few steps and wiped at the gunk congealing on his neck where it had rubbed off from Emmett. He rinsed the towel in the sink and hung it over the faucet.

“How about a glass of wine?” he suggested. “If you don’t mind me staying for a bit. Let’s just sit and relax, okay?”

Struggling to compose himself again, Emmett nodded. “Yeah, sure. Let me just… freshen up.” Seeing Ben glancing at the cupboards, politely not staring at him, Emmett pulled open the one with the glasses and took two out for him to pour the wine before going to the bathroom to pull himself back together.

With the door shut safely behind him, he leaned against the frame and took a deep breath. He shakily turned on the taps and splashed some cool water on his face. Feeling a little better, Emmett forced himself to go through the rest of his after shower ritual, and ten minutes later felt more like himself again. He went through the connecting door to the bedroom and opened the closet. He’d discarded several tops when he realized he’d been selecting a seduction outfit and slammed the door in disgust.

Ben had already seen him with goo running down his face and puffy red eyes so no slutty leather ensemble was going to erase that image. Besides, they were just having a glass of wine. Just friends hanging out for the evening.

Slipping off his robe, he reached into the hamper for his usual sleep pants he lounged in and heard Ben clear his throat behind him. Clutching the clothes in front of him, he turned partially, self-conscious and a little irritated. “Ben--”

Ben looked away, then back again. His eyes wandered over Emmett’s exposed back before he mumbled, “Uh…the door was open.” He licked his lips and took a few steps into the room, standing on the other side of the bed across from Emmett. “I just—are you okay? You were gone a while.”

“I’m fine,” Emmett replied tersely as he walked backward toward the bathroom.

“Don’t,” Ben pleaded, slowly moving around the bed until he stood a few feet from Emmett.

Emmett stumbled back another step. “We agreed—we can’t--”

“It’s not going to work. I can’t do it.” Ben reached out and took hold of the wrist modestly shielding Emmett’s groin with the pants. “Tell me to leave and I will, but I can’t stay and not touch you.”

Ben’s fingers were wrapped around his wrist, just holding him, but the touch was hot, burning into his skin and spreading liquid heat that could make him melt so easily if he didn’t stop the flow.

He shouldn’t do this, but he wanted to so badly…

“Tell me, Emmett. What do you want?”

“You.” It was out before he could stop himself. He took a ragged breath and said it again. He didn’t want to stop. “I want you.”

Ben pulled Emmett’s hand away and tossed the pants aside. Emmett’s stomach fluttered as Ben’s eyes raked over him. He felt like such a slut standing in front of him like that, completely naked and wanton.

“You look…” Ben shook his head, at a loss for words, and Emmett ducked his head as the heat colored his face.

“Nothing you haven’t seen before,” he bantered uneasily. “Half of Pittsburgh’s seen it before. I was working on Teddy’s site to save money for a new ass, but then it seemed kind of silly since everyone was paying to see this one.”

Ben chuckled, pulling him toward the bed. “I like this one too.”

He set Emmett on the mattress and started unbuttoning his shirt. Emmett undid the cuffs at the same time and pulled the hem out of Ben’s jeans. Ben shrugged the shirt off as Emmett worked on his belt. He soon had the pants worked open and sliding down Ben’s legs as Ben kicked off his shoes and pulled his pants off the rest of the way. His underwear quickly followed and Emmett whistled low as the well-endowed package came into view.

“Hello, Big Boy,” he drawled appreciatively and Ben grinned before pushing him back on the bed.

Ben lay down with him, covering him as they slid together, wrapped around each other. Ben placed a tentative kiss on Emmett’s jaw before moving to his lips and Emmett’s breath caught in anticipation. The first contact was soft and smooth, a gentle brushing together, a little taste. Then they met again more urgently. Hungry. Emmett couldn’t get enough. Ben’s tongue was plundering his mouth and he sucked it in, his own lips and teeth and tongue devouring the other man.

It took him a moment to realize the phone was ringing. He groaned when Ben pulled away and buried his face in Ben’s neck, still inhaling and tasting any skin he could touch.

“Do you want to get that?” Ben asked as the answering machine picked up.

“Leave it,” Emmett murmured, already tuning out his recorded message to the caller.

But then Ben stiffened when he heard Rodney’s voice. “Emmett, if you’re there, please pick up. Emmett?”

Rodney was working the party with Vic and Emmett knew he wouldn’t be calling unless it was urgent. Ben had already moved off of him and he reached for the phone by the bed.

“I’m here.”

“Oh, thank god, you have to come down here and wrap this thing up! Vic’s sick and has been in the bathroom for the last hour and the guests are getting green just thinking it’s the food! It’s not of course, he’s reacting to the new meds, but it’s going to be a disaster if--”

“I get it,” Emmett cut in, eyes moving regretfully over Ben’s naked form. “I’ll be right there.”

 

***
 

Ben blinked at the sun streaming in through the window and buried his face back in the pillow. Judging by bright fireball high in the sky, he assumed it was late morning, but just couldn’t bring himself to care that he’d wasted a good part of the day. But despite how tired he was, he’d hardly slept at all after leaving Emmett’s, he still couldn’t get back to sleep because he started thinking about the other man again.

After Emmett found out he had to go wrap up the party Vic had been handling, things became awkward between them again and Ben was afraid the other man would try to push him away once more. To help put him at ease, Ben had suggested having dinner together, an actual date, so Emmett would understand Ben wasn’t just interested in sleeping with him. But now, Ben was afraid it would backfire on him. He wondered if Emmett would back out since he had all day to think about it.

On the other hand, there was a definite advantage to the element of surprise, like last night, but he knew in the long run that would probably only cause regret. This way, if Emmett did come, it would mean he’d made the decision for himself and there would be no more excuses. In the meantime, Ben had to just wait.

Ben could hear the maids bustling outside his door as they cleaned up rooms that had been vacated and he knew he wouldn’t get anymore sleep when they started to vacuum. It was one of the many annoyances at being in a hotel for so long. He really needed to find a new place to live, so that was his motivation for getting out of bed.

He’d just returned from the lobby when he saw Emmett in the hallway. The man looked haggard and tired. His hair was disheveled and he was obviously still wearing the pants and t-shirt he’d worn to bed.

Ben looked down at himself, also still wearing what he’d slept in. It was all they ever saw each other in these days, as if it were a sign. “We have to stop meeting like this, people will talk,” he said. “Or maybe we should give them something to talk about.”

“Oh! I thought you were out,” Emmett said.

Ben held up the newspaper. “Just getting the classifieds.” He pulled out his keycard and opened the door. “Do you want to come in?”

Emmett shook his head. “No, I just… what did you say?”

“Do you want to come in?”

“No, before that?”

“I was getting a paper.”

“No--”

“Emmett, come inside,” Ben ordered.

Ben followed him inside and dropped the paper on the table. He noticed Emmett was looking everywhere in the room but at the rumpled bed. “My first comment alluded to the fact that you and I keep seeing each other half-dressed, just getting into or out of bed. I think it’s a sign of some sort, don’t you?” He deliberately kept his voice light and was relieved when Emmett gave him a small smile back, but he didn’t answer, quickly averting his eyes again.

“So why are you here?” Ben asked.

Emmett fidgeted with a curl at his nape. “I was, uh, wondering about dinner tonight.”

Ben’s stomach flip flopped. “What about it?”

“Is it mandatory? I mean before we—don’t think I’m easy, it’s just--it’s okay if you don’t wine and dine me before… I don’t think I can wait.”

“Is that all?” Ben blurted. Emmett glared at him and he held up his hands. “I was afraid you’d change your mind,” he confessed.

Smiling wanly, Emmett replied, “Me too, but this theory you have…” he waved his arms between them at their sleepwear, “seems to be a sign like you said.” He sighed, wringing his hands. “I couldn’t stop thinking about you so I just came over without realizing…”

Ben moved towards him. “Emmett--”

Emmett held up his hands for him to halt. “You didn’t answer my question.”

Ben studied him for a moment, hoping his answer didn’t change Emmett’s mind. “Yes, dinner is mandatory. I want more than a quick fuck.” Emmett averted his gaze again and Ben took him by the shoulders. “Is that all you want?”

Emmett shook his head and leaned against Ben’s chest. Ben crushed the other man to him, the feel of Emmett’s lips against his neck making his skin tingle. “How about brunch instead?” Emmett asked

Ben wasn’t sure he heard the muffled voice correctly. “What?”

Emmett turned his head, but still kept it nestled in the crook of Ben’s neck. “Instead of waiting for dinner, how about brunch?” Emmett repeated.

Ben laughed and turned Emmett’s face up to see it. “How about we eat after?”

 

***
 

The first time was over much too quickly. Between Emmett’s enthusiastic blow job and sliding into the man’s tight hot ass, Ben was coming before Emmett had fully adjusted to the intrusion.

“Dammit,” Ben groaned against Emmett’s mouth with an apologetic kiss and Emmett’s legs slid from his shoulders.

“I guess it’s a compliment,” Emmett grimaced as Ben pulled out.

“Definitely,” Ben assured him before discarding the used condom. He carefully cleaned himself up before returning to the bed and then paused, hovering over Emmett who was fighting, but losing, the urge to jack off in frustration.

Ben kneeled between his legs, spreading them wider. “Don’t stop,” he insisted, one hand cupping Emmett’s balls while the other started stroking his own dick. In minutes he was semi-hard again and Emmett sat up, hands joining in on his dick and mouth biting his nipples. Each rough scrape against the sensitive buds sent a jolt of pleasure to Ben’s now fully erect cock.

“Ready?” Emmett asked, licking his lips.

Ben kissed him hard and reached for another condom.

 

***
 

The second time didn’t last much longer than the first. Emmett was on his knees and Ben wanted to watch some more, see himself sliding in and out of the tight pink hole stretched obscenely around his dick, but Emmett was bucking back against him at a frenzied pace, demanding more, harder, there, yes, there!

Too soon, Ben felt Emmett explode, without any other stimulation which he thought was a compliment to him this time, and he couldn’t do anything but ride out the waves until Emmett collapsed on his stomach.

Ben stayed connected to him, covering the other man as they settled on the mattress. He felt Emmett shift beneath him, lodging his still hard dick deeper, and he moaned.

Knowing he was probably too sensitive, Ben asked, “Do you want me to--”

“No,” Emmett clutched his arm. “Just… give me a minute.”

Relieved, Ben relaxed and wrapped his arms around Emmett, nuzzling his neck. “Do you have any idea how good you feel?”

Emmett turned his head and smiled contently. “If it’s half as good as you feel…god, I needed that—this.”

“I know,” Ben agreed, kissing his neck again. “Come here.” He turned to his side and pulled Emmett’s hip with him.

Emmett gasped at the change in position, his head falling back on Ben’s shoulder. Ben held him tight against his chest, still embedded to the hilt, as he kissed him again. His tongue was languidly stroking against Emmett’s, smoothing out the sharp edges of being over stimulated. The rigid tension in Emmett’s body ebbed away and his grip on Ben’s thigh loosened. Ben’s hands rubbed over his hip and thighs, fingers raking through the wiry hair between his legs. Avoiding the flaccid shaft, his hand trailed up over Emmett’s belly, palm flat as it swept over damp skin and pointed nipples, and soon Emmett was writhing under his touch, rubbing back against him.

 

***
 

The third time was charmed. Ben rolled onto his back and Emmett straddled his hips, head thrown back and mouth open as he slid down onto him again. He leaned forward and rested on his elbows, his face inches from Ben’s as he circled his hips. “Ooh… that’s good,” he drawled, biting his lip as he pushed back, testing how deep he could take it.

Ben’s hands were on his hips, gripping tightly, but more in an effort to not force him to move faster than to guide him along. He wanted this to last and he wanted to watch Emmett pleasure himself. The other man’s eyes were closed and jaw slack, tongue pressed against the gap in his teeth. His nostrils flared slightly with each satisfied moan that escaped. Ben’s hands slid up over Emmett’s back, kneading his neck as he pulled his head down. Emmett’s eyes opened a slit and he smiled before their lips met again. He sucked Ben’s tongue into his mouth, imitating the same thrust of his hips and Ben groaned at the dual sensation.

Emmett’s fingers clawed across the sheets, inching over until he was wringing Ben’s shoulders. His grip tightened as he started moving faster, slamming back harder. Ben couldn’t hold back any longer and thrust up into him, matching his rhythm. One hand stayed twined in Emmett’s hair as the other skimmed back down to clutch his ass and spur him on.

Emmett tore his mouth away and groaned, “Oh, god…more,” when Ben jabbed his prostate. Ben jammed his hand between them and tugged on Emmett’s cock. “Yes…like that… don’t stop…”

Ben turned Emmett’s head and nipped his ear. “Come for me.”

Emmett cried out and bucked wildly as his orgasm ripped through him.

“Yeah… that’s it…” Ben growled as Emmett’s convulsing hole squeezed him. “Em…Emmett…” He drove himself as deep as possible and held on tight as his own orgasm started.

Emmett slumped on top of him as the pleasure receded, gasping for breath. “I knew…” His head nestled on Ben’s shoulder as he rolled off him. “I knew you were worth it.”

Ben kissed his head and squeezed him before gently nudging him away. “Thank you,” he replied with another kiss before adding, “don’t move,” as he headed to the bathroom to clean up. He came back a few minutes later with a damp cloth for Emmett.

Once it was discarded Ben lay back down and Emmett snuggled against his side. “So now what?” Emmett asked.

“Hungry?”

Emmett lifted his head and looked at him. “I meant about--”

“I know what you meant,” Ben cut him off. “And I don’t know. But we’ll figure it out together… If you want to.”

Emmett nodded solemnly.

“Okay.” Ben pecked his lips. “So now, we eat. Then I need to find a new place to live. After that… we’ll see what happens.”

“Well then, I have a solution for both problems. My kitchen is open, as is another apartment in my building. You can talk to the landlord if you like, while I make some lunch.”

Ben grinned. “Alright then, let’s--”

Emmett put a hand on his arm to stop him. “Wait, please. I don’t want to move just yet,” he pleaded.

Ben’s eyes flickered nervously. “Em--”

“No, it’s okay,” Emmett insisted. “I just… feel good. I’m comfortable and I want to stay here,” he pulled Ben over onto him, “like this,” he sighed as Ben’s weight covered him.

Ben shifted so he wouldn’t crush him, leg sliding between his, elbows on either side of his shoulders. He brushed the hair away from Emmett’s face and gave him a slow tender kiss. “I think it’s going to be like this for a long time,” he whispered.

He felt Emmett’s arms wrap around his neck as the other man kissed him back a little harder in response.

Ben pulled back, his hand caressing Emmett’s cheek. “I’m sorry it took so long. I should’ve just asked you out the first time I saw you.”

Emmett’s eyes widened, “But Michael--”

“Before Michael. Before I knew you were friends. The first time I went to his shop, I saw you. I wanted you.” His fingers grazed Emmett’s throat. “You had a pendant on, a British flag, and I wanted to rip it off with my teeth and kiss you here.”

Emmett laughed as Ben nipped his Adam’s apple. “You beast!” His neck arched as he let Ben continue to lick and bite the sensitive skin. “The first time I saw you, I thought you were a breeder,” Ben paused to look up at him and Emmett quickly added, “but still hot. If I had known, Michael never would’ve gotten near you first…And I thought he was a fool for breaking it off when he found out you’re positive.”

Ben’s eyes searched his. “That’s one thing I knew I didn’t have to worry about with you, you already knew and you still wanted me.”

Emmett cupped his face and stared back. “Don’t ever doubt it,” he replied fiercely.

Ben kissed him hard again, taking his breath away, before rolling to his side.

“No--”

“Shh,” Ben reassured him, wrapping his arms around Emmett and pulling him close. He kicked the blankets up with his foot and covered them. “I’m not going anywhere.”