Forever

Hello, readers. By popular demand, and vague threats of bodily harm, here's the next sections of 'Forever'.

As I was perusin' the stories the other night, I noticed that one of my favorites had an update. This is one of those that I specifically watch for, one that I am always anxiously awaiting. Much to my surprise, this particular section made mention of MY little story as one that the author liked.

So, imagine my embarrassment when I took a look at the 'Favorite stories' section of my recent postings and realized that this story was NOT included in my list of favorites, even though it's very near the top of that list. I figured I'd make a special mention of it here, to make up for my previous lapse ;-)

Having said all that, go read 'Studio in the Country'. It is a great story, in my humble opinion, with excellent character development. Michael has written a story that keeps me guessing at who he's matching with whom, and that keeps me coming back for more each time. It is worthy of praise and your enjoyment.

Hopefully my little butt-kissin' session here makes up for the fact that I missed it before. If not, oh well. I'm over it now. :-P

Usual stuff (i.e feel free to skip to 'Chapter 21') Favorite stories (and, except for 'Escape' they're in no particular

order): 'Escape', 'Choices', 'Studio in the Country',

'Separate Lives', 'Brian and Me','Kevin and Justin',

'Lance in Shining Armour', and many others. Frankly, I

have too much time on my hands.

Disclaimer ----------

This story is completely in the mind of the author and is not intended to reflect the actual personalities or sexualities of the Backstreet Boys (no matter how much the author might wish it otherwise!). If any member of BSB is gay, it's their life and their business (but they can feel free to e-mail me and complain about the story). Don't read this story if you're too young in your corner of the world. Don't read this story if it's illegal in your corner of the world. No hamsters were harmed during the filming of this movie, etc. etc. etc.

Chapter 21

It seemed that lately one of three things was always conspiring to remove me from a nice, deep sleep. It was either the phone, a four- legged family member, or...

"Kevin! Dylan! Come on, guys, we gotta get goin'," Nick's voice came to my sleepy ears.

Or the door.

"Kev, hon, go let Nick in." He didn't respond, just wrapped me up tighter. I decided I liked his plan better. Until Nick started on the door again.

"If you two don't get up, I'm gonna have someone come and open it for me. And ya won't like what I do then," he threatened. Kevin grunted, letting me go and walking to the door. I thought about reminding him he was only wearing boxers, but figured it didn't matter. Nick would get a show, one I'd imagine he'd seen before.

"Whoa, Kev. Nice look. That bed-head a natural do, or d'ya have to work at it?" I could hear the humor in his voice. I was surrounded by perky people. It was a conspiracy.

"Nick, if you and I are gonna be friends, you need to lose that eternal happy streak ya got goin'," I grumbled from under the covers.

"Not a chance, man, `specially if it bugs you!" What a friend, huh? "Now come on. Limo's already waitin' on you downstairs. Kev's got people at the arena to make him look good, although it DOES take a while. You, however, are on your own. So, unless you feel like showin' at one of our concerts wearin' boxers and sportin' that serious bed-head, I'd suggest you pull your sorry but outta there!"

"Nick, Kev could be in a coma for six months and still come out lookin' better than you on your best day," I smiled up at him. His smile faltered, just a tad. Score!

"Yeah, yeah, whatever. Now get up," he said. Nice comeback.

"Nick, Kev may not mind showin' you his goods, but I do. I am NOT getting' outta this bed until your pale white butt is back out that door."

"Awe, c'mon, Dylly," he smirked. I frowned. What was it with that name, anyway? "How do you know how pale my butt is? Kev may not be the only one who tans in the nude." Whoa, didn't see that one comin' at ALL. "Besides, maybe I'll switch sides after seein' your bare bones!" I almost fell outta the bed when he said that.

"Nick," Kevin growled from the door. Apparently my boyfriend didn't appreciate his best friend hittin' on me. My hero.

I sat up in bed, keeping the covers up around my shoulders more to play the game with Nick than out of any real modesty. I looked over at Kevin, slowly running my eyes all over his body. Then, I looked over at Nick and did the same thing. Then back to Kevin. Finally, I glanced at Nick's face.

"Not a chance, Nicky. You don't hold a candle to my man," I threw out, letting him catch my huge grin as I got out of bed. "Now get outta here, kid," I knew he hated that, "cause I've gotta get beautiful for YOUR public."

"You already are," I heard Kev say. What a sweetheart he was. Nick gave up the battle.

"Alright, alright, already. I'm outta here. Limo, downstairs, 10 minutes. Don't be late or I'm sendin' in AJ." I couldn't resist one last comment.

"Ooooh, goody, he was always my second favorite. You think he's ready for me, though, Nicky?" Nick just chuckled a bit then walked out the door.

Kev shut the door behind him and walked over to me, pushing me down on the bed as he lay on top of me.

"So, AJ's your second favorite, huh? And just who's your favorite?" I could tell by that little gleam in his eye that he thought he knew the answer. I figured I'd play a little.

"Howie, of course. Have you ever seen him with his shirt off?" I must've played well, cause Kevin drew back with a shocked look on his face. "Oh stop it, ya big goof. You know it's you. It always has been you. Besides, I've seen you with a whole lot more than your shirt off, remember?"

It was nice to see that I could make him blush, too. I leaned up to kiss him. It quickly degenerated into a tongue battle. I was happy to surrender almost immediately. I'm a lover, not a fighter.

"Ok, you. You may have minions to make y'all look beautiful, but I'm stuck doin' it myself. So, you're gonna have to let me get cleaned up." He sighed as he rolled off me, reaching for his pants as I headed for the bathroom.

Fifteen minutes later, we were crawling in the limo. Fortunately, there were no fans at this entrance, so we were able to make our way out peacefully. I couldn't resist a little jab at Nick.

"Geez, Nick, what kinda friend are you?" I asked. He got a puzzled look on his face. I leaned over as though I was telling him a secret, although I spoke loud enough for everyone to hear. "You promised you'd send AJ up in 10 minutes if we weren't down. I waited and waited but he never showed. I was so disappointed!"

Nick actually blushed at that, although I wasn't sure why. AJ obviously got a kick out of it, judging by the look on his face. Howie just smiled. Brian stared out the window. I guess I still had a little work to do with him.

Kev, on the other hand, wrapped a hand around my shoulder and pulled me in close and tight against him. He must've decided to announce to all present that I was NOT for sharing. I didn't mind in the least. I like a protective kinda man.

We arrived at the Superdome in no time. I'd like to say our entrance was quiet, but I'd be lying. We pulled up in an area that had been blocked off by security. There were fans lining both sides of the sidewalk leading up to the entrance.

"Ummmmm," I wasn't sure what they wanted me to do. Kev caught on fast. Such a smart guy.

"Don't worry about a thing. Friends in public, remember? The five of us will get out. We'll stop along the way to sign a few autographs, take a few pictures. Once we're out, Tom will walk you up and you can head inside and wait for us. Got it?"

"Yep, I'm cool," I replied.

"Ok, let's go," take-charge-Kevin was currently in possession of my boyfriend's body. I'd have to remember this one when we finally decided to...ok, don't need to go there.

The guys crawled out, starting with Nick and ending with Kevin. The screams were through the roof. I'm surprised the glass didn't shatter in the limo. The door closed when Kev got out. I wasn't sure that I hadn't been forgotten for a minute, but Tom opened it up again. I guess they were just waiting for the crowd to get `distracted'.

I quickly walked up the sidewalk, keeping my eyes on the door and not making contact with anyone else. I was really nervous about doing something to screw this up, so I didn't even look at Kev, or any of the other guys. I got to the door and pulled it open.

"Hey, you can't be in here," some guy standing in front of the door said.

Great,' I thought, just what I need.' Luckily, Tom had come in behind me.

"He's clear," Tom told the other guy. Apparently, `Dome Security' took its job seriously. Zippo the wonder dork wasn't satisfied with Tom's clearance.

"Look, he can't be back here without a pass. Those are the rules we were given by the Firm. If someone sees him, I could get in trouble," he said.

"And I'm tellin' you he's ok. He's friends of the talent," Tom said, more firmly this time. `The Talent', huh? Ooooooh!

"I don't care if he's friends with the Pope, he's," the `guard' began again, but a deep voice interrupted him.

"He's not friends with the Pope. At least not that we're aware of. But he is friends with us, and if you don't let him in, we're gonna have to get upset. He does have a pass waiting for him, we just haven't gotten a chance to give it to him, yet." Kevin to the rescue once again. I was gonna have to get him a white horse if this kept up.

This was apparently enough to satisfy the man. I had a hard time calling him a guard. He looked a lot like Barney Fife. Only not as intelligent.

We walked down the hall, heading for a dressing room, I presumed. Another staff member met us a little ways in and handed an envelope to Kevin. He popped it open and pulled out my all-access pass. I was gonna get a swelled head if I wasn't careful. Hmmmm, another place I really shouldn't go. Yet.

We finally got to the dressing room. Kev and the guys went off to do their thing, so I just hung out on a couch in the corner. Nick came back first, sitting down to join me on the couch.

"Did you wanna see the openers, Dylan?" Openers? Oh, the opening act. Duh!

"Well, not really. Would it be ok to just hang with you guys until you have to go out?"

"Sure, it's fine. I was just gonna tell you that you'd better get out there if you wanted to see them. They go on in a few minutes."

"Nah. I'm still a little tired, and I'd rather wait for the real stars to show," I said with a grin, which he returned.

We talked for a little bit, mostly just bs'ing about nothing in particular. We did spend a few minutes discussing Nintendo. His eyes lit up when I told him I hadn't played any in ten years. I wasn't sure why, since I didn't figure I'd be any real competition for him.

We also talked diving for a bit. We decided to go on a dive trip once he was back from the tour. I said that sounded good, as it'd give me an excuse to get re-certified in the few weeks before they got back.

The rest of the guys started to filter back in. Kevin was last, which didn't surprise me. He did look a little scruffy when we left the hotel. He immediately kicked Nick off of the couch so he could join me. I really did love this man. We snuggled, him sitting up and me laying across his lap.

I leaned up to give him a kiss. Then another. They started to blend together, one after the other into a single long kiss. I was tempted to run my hands through his hair, but I knew that'd get him in trouble with the powers-in-charge of makeup. So, I settled for touching him all over, everywhere I could reach. At least until throats started clearing behind us.

I started to pull away, but Kev had other ideas. He held me against him, a hand behind my head holding my mouth against his. After another minute or so, he let go. His eyes were boiling with passion. I could tell he was hot. So was I. Concert? What concert?

I turned back, noticing the guys staring at us. Brian was noticeably uncomfortable, but, to his credit, he didn't say anything, and he did try to hide his discomfort pretty well. Howie was just...serene. I got the feeling that not very much could ruffle him. Nick just sat there with that stupid little grin of his. Such a character.

AJ, on the other hand, looked uncomfortable, but not quite in the way that Brian did. Actually, if I didn't know better, I'd say AJ had enjoyed our little display. I looked him in the eye and raised an eyebrow. He blushed and looked away. Could AJ be bi? Stranger things had happened, I guess. I let it slide, considering it none of my business.

There was a knock on the door. Apparently, one of the guys had had the smarts to lock it.

"Guys, it's time to get lined up. You're on in a few minutes," the muffled voice came through the door. Nick yelled back to let him know they'd be right out.

"Well, guess that's my cue to find my way out to the audience." I knew I couldn't stay backstage. Since the show was in the round, there really was no backstage. At least not one where I could see the guys perform.

We all stood and headed out into the hallway. My trusty sidekick, Tom, was hanging out there, waiting.

"Tom here can show you where you're sitting, D," Kev informed me. "After the show, come back this way, and Tom'll take you to the bus. We'll meet you there after we get cleaned up. It'll be easier if you're already on before we head outside."

"Ok, sounds good to me, Kev," I said. I turned to the other guys, then. "Knock `em dead, guys. Or is it break a leg? Well, either way, have a great show." They all grinned and nodded at me. I could feel the excitement coming off of them. They were ready to be out there.

Tom and I wandered our way out to the floor. I got lost on the way, so I asked if he'd mind coming back out here to get me. He said it wasn't a problem.

When we got to my seat, I was bummed to see that I wasn't alone in the secured section this time. There was something like 50 screaming girls there. And me, the only guy. I decided I'd better discuss this seating thing with Kevin. If I was gonna be at many of their shows, I was going to start standing out if I always sat in a secured section with only girls as my company.

Tom left me to sit down just as the house lights went down. The screams began. I must've been developing a resistance to the shrieks. They didn't sound quite as loud as they had in St. Pete. Then, the guys appeared. I guess I was wrong about the volume cause it went WAY up.

As `Larger than Life' kicked in, I had to stop and chuckle. I wasn't on Kevin's side this time. I was on Nick's. I wondered if that'd been on purpose. And I wondered if that would last the whole concert.

It didn't. By the third song, Kevin was again in front of me. I'm not sure how he got the guys to shift, but he did. I think the girls around me were disappointed. Kevin was so OLD, after all. I chuckled when I heard one of them say that. I think she must've been all of 13.

The show was, in a word, spectacular. I was once again amazed at the talent these guys had. I still couldn't figure out how some people didn't take them seriously as musicians. Even if they didn't write their own music, which they did, or play their own instruments, which they did on occasion, their voices were incredible. The harmonies, the emotion. I loved it. Although, since I've always been a sucker for a strong voice, not to mention the fact that I was in love with one of the group, I guess I could be considered a little biased. Just a little, though.

Kevin sang to me. Every slow song they did, from Show Me The Meaning' to All I Have To Give', his eyes met mine. I noticed he was careful not to let them linger too long. But, I knew what he was trying to say.

Once the guys had done `I Want It That Way', and the girls realized they weren't coming back, the crowd started to thin. I waited for a minute, hoping Tom remembered to come find me. Lucky for me, he did.

I followed Tom back through the maze of corridors and out the back door where we had entered. The crowd there was at least as big, if not bigger, than it was before the show. And they all started screaming when I walked out. It was actually kinda funny to hear the screaming die when they realized that I wasn't part of the group.

I climbed on board the bus and was introduced to the driver. It turned out that he was the same driver that had rear-ended me. I wanted to offer him something in payment for what happened. Like a small island or something. Without that accident, my life would be nothing like it was. I wouldn't have Kevin, plain and simple.

I wandered through the bus. It looked pretty much like all the tour buses I'd ever seen on MTV. Lounging area in the back. Bunks for all the guys. A booth in the kitchen, and some couches along either side in the front. I decided to hang in the kitchen.

I rummaged through cupboards and drawers and managed to come up with a deck of cards. I dealt out a game of solitaire and started playing. After losing about a dozen times, to myself I guess since it was solitaire, I gave up and boxed the cards, tossing them back in the drawer where I found them.

I heard the screams go up outside, signaling the return of my friends and my lover. A little shiver ran up my spine. I stood up and leaned against a counter, waiting for them.

Kevin was the first one on the bus. He walked up to me, grabbed my hand, and pulled me towards the back. When we were between the bunks and out of sight of any prying eyes, he kissed me. I think the universe not only stopped this time, but also started to move backwards.

His mouth was so hot. His tongue immediately pressed against my lips, opening my mouth and sliding in. His hands were all over me, holding me tight against him. I nearly passed out for a second.

Then I joined him, running my hands up and down his back, even going so far as to grab onto his butt and give it a squeeze. This only seemed to make him more crazy, as he pushed me up against the wall. I felt like he was trying to join our bodies together permanently.

I was literally starting to see stars. His mouth had me so hot that I was having trouble breathing. I even thought I heard applause. Oh, wait, I DID hear applause. It was coming from further up the aisle. Had to be Nick.

Kevin pulled away. I had to grab onto one of the bunks for support or I would've fallen. As it was, I was still having trouble getting oxygen into my body. My lungs had decided to stop working.

"Wow," I whispered. He just nodded. Obviously, it was good for him, too. If this was what performing on stage did to him, I'd have to be sure to get plenty of rest beforehand.

"Great performance, guys," Nick threw in. "But some of us would prefer not to see it again for a while."

"Why, Nick, jealous?" I threw in quickly.

"Damn right I am, man! Kev's a total hottie!" If looks could kill, I would probably have been up on charges at that moment, and millions of teenage girls would be mourning the loss of Nick Carter.

I turned back as Kev wrapped me in a hug.

"I need to hold you. Do you mind if we go to bed?" I barely heard his whisper in my ear. I just shook my head. It sounded perfect to me.

He showed me to the bathroom where I could change and get ready for bed. I slipped off my pants and switched to a fresh t-shirt. My other one had a little too much cheap perfume residue on it from my seat mates during the show. I also got my teeth brushed, then I was ready for sleep. Or at least for bed.

I stepped out of the bathroom. Kevin was standing there waiting for me, dressed only in his boxers.

"Uh, uh," he shook his head.

"What?" I was confused.

"You are not wearin' that shirt to bed," he stated in a firm voice.

"Why not? What's wrong with it?" It was just a plain gray t- shirt.

"You are not wearin' that shirt to bed because it's covering you up. I want as much of you touching me as possible," he said, quietly so the other guys wouldn't hear. He reached down to pull my shirt off, but I grabbed his hands.

"Kev," I said quietly, "not in front of the guys." I was a little shy about my body for some reason. He just smiled at me.

"Dylan, sweetie, I do love you but you've got to understand something. We," his arm took in the guys, "live practically on top of each other for weeks, sometimes months, at a time. I plan on you spending at least some of that time with us, so you need to get over this shyness. I've seen every one of these guys naked. It wasn't always pretty. Nick almost blinded me with that pale white ass of his," he grinned, "but the fact is it happens. I know it's hard to do, but please, think about it? For me?"

I hated it when he pulled out that puppy-dog look of his. Dammit, it wasn't fair that he could do that to me. Oh, who was I kidding? I loved it that he did that to me. I let go of his wrists so he could take off my shirt.

When I was stripped to my boxers, Nick decided to get funny again and started doin' some whistles and catcalls. I gave him the finger. He refused my offer. His loss, I guess. Kevin and I crawled into his bunk.

They were pretty roomy. That was too bad, I was hoping to have a good reason to stay tight up against Kevin. Apparently, he was too, cause he pulled me up against him in my favorite position: spooned together, touching from top to bottom with his back against my chest and his arm around my waist.

This time, though, there was something else touching. Something hard, pressing against my butt at the moment. I wiggled against him.

"What's this? Long stay at sea, sailor?" I said with a laugh. I was trying to let him know I was ok with his excitement.

"I'm sorry, D," he chuckled with me, "but performing always gets me excited. Having you here with me just makes it that much worse. Or better, I guess." I could hear the smile in his tone.

"Kev, it's ok. I understand. It's just...," I let the thought die. I paused for a second, then pulled away a little so I could turn around and talk to him.

"Does this bother you, Kev? That I want to wait, I mean?"

"A little, I guess, but only because of the fact that I want to be with you. Totally and in every way. But I also understand your hesitation, and I respect your choice. It's difficult just starting out, and we haven't actually been together all that long. Waiting is fine, as long as you understand that I can't help being excited when I'm with you."

"Kev, I'm excited when I'm with you, too, man. I love you, and I want to be with you in every way possible, too. I just...," I hesitated, gathering my thoughts before looking directly in his eyes. "It's just that I want our first time to be when we're both home. When I can wake up in the morning and know that you're not leaving town again right away. So that our first time isn't our only time, or isn't just something we do to make up for the fact we won't see each other. Does that make sense?"

"Yeah, D, it makes perfect sense. And I like that you want to wait until we can be together like that. Now, why don't you slide back over so I can hold you? I'm startin' to come down, and I need some sleep. Ok?"

I just nodded with a smile and flipped back over. Kev pressed up against me again, just as tightly as before. I could again feel his hardness against me. He moved his hand down across my stomach to my crotch, giving me a squeeze and pulling me against him. I gasped.

"I just wanted to make sure I wasn't the only one feeling like this," he said with that sadistic chuckle he'd used this morning. Then he moved his hand back up my stomach to rest just below my pecs.

I wiggled my butt against him, teasing him like he'd teased me. I heard him gasp, feeling his breath against my neck. Then I stopped, and he groaned a little.

"Sucks when someone's a tease, don't it," I said coyly. "G'night now, Kevy. I love you," I settled back against him, enjoying the feel of his hard body against mine.

"Good night, my love. Sleep well, and I love you, too," he whispered in my ear, "Dylly," he finished with a laugh.

I nudged him with my elbow, causing him to squeeze me tighter against him.

`Good reflexes,' I thought, as we both drifted to sleep.

Chapter 22

After that night, I realized why Kev and the guys didn't really care for sleeping on the bus. The bunk was comfortable enough, and sleeping in Kevin's arms was always awesome, but I think I felt every crack, pebble, and pothole on the road between New Orleans and Houston. It wasn't exactly my best night's sleep. Actually, I think it ranked as one of my worst, Kev or no Kev.

Waking up to an empty bed didn't really kickstart my day right, either. Where was he? We'd only slept together for three nights, not counting our little catnap yesterday, and so far he was only 1-for-3 on being there when I woke up. It wasn't a good average. I let out a disappointed sigh.

I turned towards the wall, feeling like pouting for a while. I lay in the dark, tapping out a slow rhythm against the wall with one hand, when I saw light from behind me.

"You awake?" Kev's voice came to me quietly. I decided to be difficult and didn't answer. I just kept tapping the wall. He climbed in behind me and put a hand on my arm.

"What's the matter, sweetie?" I could tell he was concerned. I debated letting him stew a little longer, but deep down inside I knew I was being silly, so I figured I'd just tell him.

"You weren't here when I woke up, again," I said in my best quiet-pouty-little-boy voice. I think he caught on that I was just wanting a little attention, as he chuckled a little bit.

"I'm sorry, D. Tom and I had to straighten some stuff out. I had planned on being back when you woke up."

"Promise?" I said, sticking out my lip. He laughed.

"Yeah, I promise," he replied. I slipped into little boy mode again.

"Ok," I said, and immediately turned over to face him and closed my eyes, pretending to sleep. He picked up on my plan pretty fast. He pulled a blanket over us and curled up around me. I snuggled as close to him as I could.

I felt a kiss on my lips. I guess he'd decided that he was not only gonna be there when I woke up, he was also gonna be the reason why I woke up. I had no problem with that. It was better than the phone. Or the dog. Or.

"You guys awake in there?"

Or Nick. What was it with that guy, anyway? Did he have a `Dylan's gettin' a little' meter installed somewhere or something? I answered.

"No, Nick. And neither are you. This is all just a really boring dream. You should turn around, get back in your bunk, and go back to sleep. This will all go away when you get up for real." He thought I was kidding, apparently, cause he started laughing just before he stuck his head inside the curtain.

"Come on, guys. Didn't ya notice the total lack of movement here? We're at the hotel!"

"Oh, well, that's another story!" I said, starting to climb over Kevin.

"Hey! Between a hotel and me, you choose the hotel?! What kinda boyfriend are you?" He asked, laughing at my enthusiasm. I was on top of him on my way over and stopped to give him a light kiss.

"The kind of boyfriend who hears a steamy hot shower callin' his name, not to mention a nice comfortable bed. And the kind of boyfriend who wants to share that with the man he loves," I whispered against his lips, looking into his eyes. I'll give him credit. He caught on fast.

"Nick, you're totally right. We should get up," he said, sliding out from under me and pulling me out after him. Nick just chuckled.

I stood up and the world tilted. I stumbled, falling into Nick. My head was spinning in about 50 different directions, and my stomach was feeling queasy.

"Whoa, Dylan, easy! I mean you're cute an' all, but you're really not my type!" Nick joked as he caught me.

"D?" Kevin pulled me out of Nick's arms. "You ok?" The world finally righted itself.

"Yeah. Yeah, I'm ok. Guess I just got up too fast is all," I said. I was lying, but I didn't want to worry him. My head still wasn't totally settled, and my stomach was definitely not totally right. I hoped I wasn't catching the flu or something. I didn't want to get the guys sick while they were on tour.

I managed to throw on a pair of sweats and my t-shirt that Kevin had decided to take off last night before allowing me in bed. I moved a little slowly, trying to act normal, but I could feel Kevin keeping an eye on me. I borrowed a hat from him, donned my Oakley's and my Birks, and I was ready to go.

The guys left the bus first. There were again fans here, although nothing like at the Dome last night. Once the guys got off, the kiddies all went nuts for a few minutes. The guys started doin' their thing with the autographs. I waited until the fans were distracted and just casually walked off the bus and into the hotel.

The hotel was pretty nice, judging by the lobby, anyway. It was roomy and open, with a small fountain in the middle and a fireplace/lounge area off to the right. I sat down in one of the leather chairs there, waiting for the guys to get in. I was suddenly wiped out. I guess sleepin' on the bus was worse than no sleep at all.

I noticed Tom at the counter. He must've been checking the guys in as he walked away with an envelope a minute later. He came over to me.

"Hey, Dylan, how're you doing?" he asked.

"Ok, man. Drained. That bus isn't exactly the Hilton," I joked.

"You should try it on the couch, man!" I forgot that he didn't get a bunk of his own. "Here's a key. I put you in Kev's room, of course." I just smiled. Tom was bein' very cool about Kev and I.

"Thanks, Tom. Much appreciated," I said, just as the guys walked in. Tom gave everyone their keys, and we all trooped over to the elevator. We got in, and the elevator took off. I left my stomach in the lobby.

I squeezed Kev's hand, suddenly feeling that light-headedness again.

"Dylan?"

"I'm ok, Kev, really." The doors opened and the guys started out. I made it about three feet before the world started to fade out.

"Kev," I mumbled as I started to go down. One last thought floated through my head.

`Nicky's never gonna let me live this down.' Darkness.

When I woke up, there was a very strange looking man staring down at me. Kinda reminded me of Andy Griffith when he was doing that lawyer show. Matlock, I think.

`Man, I sure wish Kev'd be here one of these times. Between the dog, the cat, and this guy, I'm not really enjoying this whole waking up thing,' I thought.

"Dylan?" Ah, there he was. I turned to the side and saw Kev sitting next to me. Actually, all the guys were there, grouped around behind him. The funny looking guy spoke up.

"He'll be alright. Judging from the look of him, he's probably just a little undernourished."

"Yeah, he hasn't been eating right lately," Kev said quietly. I reached over and squeezed his arm, letting him know it wasn't his fault. I remembered one other thing.

"I...um...I didn't eat anything after lunch yesterday, either. And I didn't sleep all that great last night," I said, looking at Kev. He shook his head. We'd decided on a nap before the show, and we never ate once we got on the bus. He started to get that guilty look again, so I gave his arm another squeeze. He sure got down on himself fast.

"Well, that'd explain the sudden fatigue today. I think if you just rest and get a few decent meals in you, you oughta be fine. Just," he began, but I knew what was coming next.

"I know, I know. `Take it easy'. Geez, a lot of people seem to be tellin' me that lately," I informed him.

"We'll make sure he does that," Kev said using `the tone'. He was really good at that authoritative thing. I wondered if he'd ever considered contracting out his time as a petty dictator. My mind started working.

`Hmmmm, but if he's making sure I get rest today, then he's probably going to have to be here with me. After all, I'm really sick, practically wastin' away, right?. What'll I do without my personal healer?' I was thinking. I could tell by the look in his eyes that he was agreeing with me.

Nick led the doc out of our room, thanking him for stopping up. I gathered that he actually was a doctor, although semi-retired. I think the hotel just kept him on in case of minor emergencies, although I wondered how many of those a hotel normally had.

The instant the doc was out of sight, Kevin had me in his arms. He held me so tight that I was afraid for a minute I was gonna black out again.

"God, you had me so worried, D," he said. He sounded like he was near tears. I just squeezed him back for a second before pulling back far enough to see his face. I tilted it up to look at me.

"Kev, I'm FINE, ok? You heard Dr. what's-his-name there. I just need some rest is all. I'm just sorry I'm ruining your day off," I said with a little giggle.

"Ya know, Dylly," Nick had to speak up, "if you keep fallin' at my feet like this, ole Kev here's gonna wonder what's goin' on." He winked at me as he said it. I think he was tryin' to distract Kev.

"And you know, Nicky, that if you keep insinuating something's going on between us, people are gonna begin to question which side you're playing for," I joked back. It was only some light banter for distraction, but I was still disappointed when he didn't even bat an eye.

"Dude, I'm a Backstreet Boy," he fired back. "Every straight dude in the world thinks I'm gay, every gay guy in the world wishes I was, and every straight chick in the world just wants to have my kids." I had to roll my eyes. No ego there, at all! "People question which side I'm on all the time!"

I had to laugh at that. He had a point there. Dr. Dictator, a.k.a. Kevin, decided it was time to call it quits.

"Ok, everyone out. Dylan's gettin' some rest, and I'm gonna hang here and make sure he gets it," he ordered. Dear Nick couldn't let that one go.

"Uh...Kev...don't ya think he'd get more rest if you WEREN'T hangin' here?" He smirked.

"Maybe, Nick. But I KNOW you're gonna get plenty of rest if I drown you in the pool," he said with an evil grin. "Now git!"

Nick, Brian, and Howie all trailed out of the room, giving me a small wave on their way by. I tossed one back at `em. AJ started to leave, then stopped and turned back.

"Get better soon, man," he said, with a strange look in his eyes.

"Thanks, AJ. I'm sure Dr. Kevy will take good care o' me," I joked, giving Kev's arm a squeeze. AJ just nodded and walked out. I turned to Kevin.

"Does he seem ok to you?"

"AJ? He seems a bit quiet, but that's nothing too strange. It happens some times. Not everyone can be wild and crazy all the time."

"Yeah, I guess you're," I started, but couldn't hold back the yawn. I smiled a little sheepishly at Kev. I could tell from his glance what was coming.

"Ok, you. Time for that rest. Did you still want a shower before you go to sleep?" I thought a minute. The thought of that hot water all over my bod sure did feel good. There was only one little problem.

"I'm not sure I'm...ok...to take one alone," I said, glancing away. I really wanted that shower, but I wasn't really sure I wouldn't pass out again. I still hadn't eaten or slept, yet. Falling down in the shower was one clich‚ I preferred to avoid at this point.

But, I also didn't want Kev to take one with me if it was gonna be too uncomfortable. Maybe I should just skip it.

"I'll help you, it'll be cool," he said.

"Are you sure? I mean...," strangely enough, I blushed.

"Yeah, I'm sure. It'll be ok, Dylan. I'd never take advantage of you when you're feeling like this. I'd never take advantage of you any time."

"Then, yeah, I'd really like a hot shower," I said, giving him a shy smile. He smiled back, running his hand across my cheek and down to my chest.

"Ok, then. I'll go start the water. I'm also going to order you some breakfast," he said. I started to protest at the thought of food, but he stopped me. "Nothing heavy. Just some toast and cereal, maybe fresh fruit if they have any." I sighed, knowing it was no good to argue.

"Ok," I agreed. "BUT, no cereal with the words fiber' or bran' in the name. And no melons in the fruit. I'm not a big melon fan."

"Not a problem. Nothin' healthy in the cereal, and no melons in the fruit. Be right back."

I couldn't help but smile as I watched him walk away. It'd been so long since someone cared enough to take care of me like this. It made me feel special. Loved. I sighed, content.

He came back in a few minutes later. I sat up and started to stand when he picked me up and carried me into the bathroom.

"Kev, come on! I'm not a total invalid! I only need a little help. Let's not overkill, huh?"

He just ignored me and set me on the bathroom counter. He proceeded to strip off my shirt. Someone had already taken off my Birks, probably when I was dumped on the bed in the other room.

He helped me stand, sliding the sweats down and reaching for my boxers. I grabbed his hand, suddenly not sure I was ready to bare all. He looked up at me, nodding his understanding. He leaned me back into the counter and quickly stripped down to his boxers, also.

He was so beautiful, he took my breath away. And then his boxers joined the rest of his clothes on the floor, and I nearly passed out again. I took a deep breath.

"Kev," I paused, "you are so beautiful, baby."

"So are you, sweetie," he said, smiling at me as he cupped my face in his hands. I reached up to place my hands on his. I closed my eyes and sat like that a moment, just...savoring.

I opened my eyes, staring into those luminescent green pools of his. I slowly moved his hands down to my waist. He raised an eyebrow at me, silently asking if I was sure. I just stood straight, away from the counter, and put my hands on his shoulders. He slid my boxers down to join his.

He stepped back from me a moment. I was a little embarrassed. My body is nowhere what his is, especially right now. But, I could tell by the look of hunger in his eyes that he liked what he saw. It made me feel good.

He turned away and led me to the shower, holding me straight with a hand on my waist, in case I fell again. Somehow, I drew from his strength. I felt better than I had yet that day. We both slid in under the hot water.

He pushed me back, moving me so that I was directly under the spray from the shower. It felt wonderful. HE felt wonderful. He started to step back, but I held him, pulling him back to me, taking him in my arms. I luxuriated in the feeling of him against me. I knew I didn't have the energy for more, and I knew he wouldn't let me even if I wanted to try, but holding him was enough for now.

He stepped away too soon and grabbed the bottle of shampoo. I guessed this was going to be a full purpose shower and not just a soak. He massaged the shampoo into my scalp. To say it felt awesome would be a total understatement. The man had hands to die for.

I had to lean on him again, placing my arms on his shoulders to hold myself up. Between the heat of the shower and the feelings his hands were giving to my head, I was starting to relax a little too much. I think he realized this, as he leaned me back under the showerhead to rinse out the shampoo.

He reached for the soap, but I stopped him. I knew I wouldn't make it through it, anyway, and I really just wanted to hold him again for a minute. He seemed to understand as I pulled him into my arms.

I rested my head on his shoulder, and I let my hands wander. Down his back, then up again. Across his shoulders, down his powerful biceps. Wrapped back around his back and down. Further this time, across his buttocks, feeling the strength everywhere in him. I moved my hands to his side, looking up to ask a question with my eyes.

His answer was to move slightly apart from me, sliding his hands down to mine. He guided my hands up to his shoulders again, down his chest, rubbing my hands over his pecs, allowing me to savor the texture of his skin. Sliding our hands down to his stomach, feeling the rippling strength that lay in his abs. And even further down.

I stilled our hands as I slowly shook my head `no'. I wanted to touch every inch of him, but I knew it wasn't fair to him. We wouldn't go farther than touching. I couldn't even if I'd wanted to. And the fact remained that, as much as I wanted him, as much as I wanted this, I still wanted our first time together to be something more. To be something...special. He smiled in understanding.

I moved my hands back around his waist, pulling him against me again as I lay my head back on his shoulder. He just put his arms around my back and held me close. I could feel the love coming from him. It amazed me how we could communicate without even talking to one another. But, I still needed to say the words.

"I love you, Kevin Richardson. More than anything or anyone else in the world," I spoke quietly, trying to hold the mood between us.

"And I love you, Dylan Weston," he spoke just as softly. I just held him, waiting to see if he added anything else. He did. One word.

"Forever."

Chapter 23

Kev insisted on drying me off and carrying me back out to the main room. I was beginning to feel like I was incapable of functioning without him. Come to think of it, maybe that wasn't such a bad thing.

He asked if I wanted a fresh pair of boxers or if I just wanted to stay nude. I told him it was up to him, as I had every intention that he'd be in this bed with me. If he was ok with me bein' bare, then I was ok with it. He just smiled and shut my suitcase before walking back over to tuck me in.

He had just finished tucking me in bed when there was a knock at the door.

"Room service," came the voice of the waiter.

Kev let him in, directing him to put the tray on the other bed. I had to admit, he was pretty good. He didn't even bat an eye at the fact that I was in bed and Kevin was in boxers. Kevin signed the check.

"Thank you, sir. Enjoy your meal," he said as he turned and walked back out the door.

"You didn't tip him?" I asked.

"Yeah, I did. It's just easier to tack it on the bill. It's hard to carry enough cash all the time to tip everybody." Made sense to me, I guess.

Kevin opened the door again and put the `Do Not Disturb' sign on the handle. Then, he closed the door and locked the deadbolt and chain, preventing anyone from getting in. I felt like I was living in Fort Knox. With the world's sexiest security guard.

Kevin then did what was probably the sweetest thing he'd ever done for me since we met. He fed me breakfast. I protested a bit, of course. I didn't want him gettin' too far into this `Dylan is helpless' routine he had going on. But, inside I was secretly a little thrilled. It was a nice gesture.

I couldn't eat everything that he ordered. The Rice Krispies went down ok. Mostly, anyway. Fortunately, they're bland enough that my stomach didn't rebel. The fruit was another story. I made it through a strawberry and about half of a banana before I couldn't eat any more. Kev insisted I drink my o.j., and then he was satisfied that I was done.

"Were you a nurse in a past life or something?" I joked with him as he moved the dishes over to a table in the corner. He came and sat down next to me before he answered.

"Could be, I guess," he replied. Then, a very, very, very evil grin showed up on his face. Uh oh. "If you want, I could give you a shot in the butt, and we can see if I'm any good at it." He lifted his eyebrows at me a few times.

My face exploded. Literally exploded. Oh. God. I didn't know if I'd ever been so embarrassed in my life. I lay down on the bed, pulling the covers up over my head. The bastard just laughed at me.

Of course, I had a huge smile on my face, too. Under the covers, anyway.

I felt Kev stand up and heard him walking away. I peeked out from under the covers. Just the top of my bleached head. He was closing the curtains.

`Good man,' I thought. I hated sleeping with light in the room. Then, he started walking across the room.

"Where're you going?" I asked.

"Nowhere, D. Just turnin' out these lights," he said as he flicked off the switch. The room was dark. No fair. I turned on the bedside lamp.

"Why'd you do that?" he questioned.

"Well...um...I didn't want you to stub your toe on the way to bed," I replied innocently. He knew I was full of it.

He walked over to the bed to stand right in front of me. And he dropped his boxers.

`I wonder if it's possible to have a heart attack at the age of 26?' I thought, not for the first time. I noticed a strange hand creeping out to touch his thigh. Then I realized that the hand was mine and yanked it back under the covers. Kev just chuckled and walked around to the other side of the bed.

"Ya know, Kev, if you're wanting me to relax, causing a heart attack's not really the way to go `bout it," I said. I noticed my voice was trembling just a bit. He just chuckled again.

"I can put my shorts back on if it helps," he said, pausing before he crawled in next to me.

"NO!" I shouted. Then blushed again. "Er...that's ok, Kevy," I said, this time a little more quietly. I glanced his way and saw a smile on his face as he slid in next to me.

I immediately slid over to him, wrapping my arms around him and twining my legs with him.

"Whoa, anxious a bit, are ya?" he joked.

"Always where you're concerned, baby," I joked back. Then got more serious. "Hold me, Kev?"

"Forever, D," was his only reply, as he slid his arms around me and pulled me tight against him. I was starting to like that word. I listened to the even sound of his breathing as sleep came over me.

When I woke up, it was dark in the room. It was still daytime, though, as there was light filtering in from a crack in the curtains.

"Awake, baby?" he asked me quietly. I just nodded in return, resting my head back on his chest. "How're you feeling?"

"As long as I'm right here, I'm perfect," I said, still a little sleepy.

"Mmmmmm, then let's just stay here for the rest of our lives," he said. He sounded like he'd been asleep, too.

I thought about it a second before shaking my head `no'. I think he was a little surprised at that cause I felt him shift a little to look at me.

"If I'm gonna stay in bed with you forever, and I'd like nothing better than that, believe me, then I'd rather stay in our bed with you. Not a hotel bed," I said. He seemed to like that answer as he shifted back to where he'd been.

Our peaceful moment was interrupted by the rumble of Kev's stomach. I laughed lightly as I slapped his abs. Like a rock. Or several, as the case may be.

"Ya know, Kev, for a guy who's so skinny, you sure do get hungry a lot," I teased him as I leaned up on my elbow to look down at him. He just smiled back.

"I'm only hungry for one thing at the moment," he said. He leaned up and kissed me, at first lightly, but with more and more passion. He pushed me back, rolling over on top of me. His tongue slid into my mouth, running all around, licking across my lips, sliding over my tongue. I knew I should probably stop this, but I really didn't want to at the moment.

I wrapped my hands around him, running my hands up and down his back, trying to pull his weight down on me more. I loved the feel of his skin. Every part of him was touching every part of me. Every part.

I could feel his shaft pushing into me. It felt so good. I wanted him so bad. All of him. I reached my hands down and grabbed his ass, pulling him tighter against me, grinding us together.

Kev pulled his mouth off of me and pulled back, looking in my eyes as he stopped moving above me. He stared at me, letting his eyes gaze into mine, into my soul. I knew what he was thinking, what he was asking. I also knew that, if he wanted this, then I would do it without hesitation.

He ground against me. Once. Again. Then he leaned down and placed a light kiss on my lips, slowly running his tongue around the edge, but not letting it go in my mouth. I lifted my head up, trying to get it in myself, but he pulled back.

"Not yet, baby. We WILL do this, but not yet," he said, looking in my eyes again. "Special, remember?"

I nodded. It was about all that I could do. I knew he was right. While I wouldn't regret making love with him now, I knew that I'd rather wait and do it when I was recovered. And when we were...home.

He started to roll off of me, but I placed my hands on his side, stopping him.

"Not yet. Please? Can you just...can you just lay there for a minute? Please?" I pleaded softly. "I...I like feeling your weight on me."

He just nodded slightly and settled down on top of me. I slowly ran my hands up and down his sides. He had his running through my hair as he turned his head into my neck. I turned my head towards his, resting our cheeks together.

He felt...incredible on top of me. Warm and smooth and strong. And loving. A tear slid out of my eye. I tried to wipe it up before it hit his face, but I missed it. He realized what it was and leaned up, just a bit.

"Am I hurting you, baby?" I shook my head no. I was gonna cry. Like REALLY cry. I could tell that I was. And I couldn't stop it. It didn't happen often, but I knew it was coming.

"What's wrong, D, what is it?" I could hear the concern in his voice, and I lost it. Tears started flowing down my cheeks as I started to sob.

Kevin rolled off of me and onto his back, pulling me up against his chest. I buried my face in his neck as he stroked my hair, whispering softly to me.

I eventually got myself under control enough to talk. I was embarrassed. I didn't really like to cry like this, especially not in front of people. I had lost it only twice in the last ten years. Once was in front of Lindsay only a few weeks before, when Kevin had walked away. And once was the night that Jeremy called to tell me that Gram had died. I hadn't cried at Jeremy's wedding. I hadn't cried after everything that happened there. I hadn't even cried at Gram's funeral.

"I'm sorry, Kev. I didn't mean to do that," I said. "I'm not sure where it came from," he interrupted me.

"It's ok, D, it's alright. It happens some times, ok?" He asked in that soft voice of his.

"I know, but I don't normally do that. Don't like to do that," I said, barely speaking above a whisper.

"I understand. It's ok," he soothed me.

We lay there like that for a few minutes, me resting my head against his neck, him just holding me, stroking the back of my neck. Eventually, his stomach reminded us what had started all of this in the first place. I laughed in spite of myself.

"Guess we'd better feed you, huh, lover?" I asked, trying to lighten the feeling in the room. He chuckled back.

"And you, too, remember? You're the one who needs nourishment," he said. He slid out from under me, flipping on the lamp before walking over to grab the room service menu.

I just lay there and admired the view. And oh, what a view.

I wonder what Playgirl' would pay me for this shot?' I thought, laughing to myself. Then, I remembered what Glen had done with his camera, and the laugh faded.

Kev ordered us some lunch. While he was on the phone, I got up to use the restroom. When I noticed his eyes wandering my way, I played it up a bit, stretching like a cat. I caught his glance out of the corner of my eye and winked before running off to the bathroom.

When I came out, Kevin was back on the bed, wearing his boxers. I stuck out my lower lip, pouting. And he knew exactly why.

"Hey, I've gotta answer the door, remember?"

Fine, if he wanted to be that way, then. I turned to the other bed, yanking back the covers before climbing in. I pulled the covers up to my neck.

Kev just looked at me for a second, then shrugged. Then he decided on a kamikaze mission, jumping from his bed to mine and landing on top of me. He straddled my waist and leaned down, wrapping his arms up tight against me. Basically, he trapped me under the covers, the ass.

"Hmmm, looks like you might have a problem," he smirked. I tried to turn the tables.

"Really? Looks to me like you have the problem," I said. He lifted an eyebrow.

"How d'ya figure that?" He asked.

"Well, you're all alone out there. I'm warm and snug in here. You figure it out," I said. He paused to think about it.

"Truce?" he asked. I stopped to think. Well, that's not true. I already knew the answer. I stopped to play with his mind.

"Sure," I said with a grin.

The room service guy knocking on the door interrupted us. Kev jumped up and started across the room. I quickly jumped out of the new bed and moved back to my old one. I liked it better. It felt like Kevin, smelled like Kevin.

Lunch was a club sandwich. I managed to get most of it down, as well as part of a salad that Kevin had ordered. Kevin took the tray when we were done, setting it outside the door before once again locking us in our `cell'.

When he came back in, he smiled and walked over to stand in front of me. I knew what was coming. But I didn't protest, of course. And he just dropped his shorts.

"You're such an exhibitionist. I wonder if the other guys know about this?" I asked as he walked around to the other side of the bed again.

"Not quite as up close and personal as you," he said as he slid into the bed and scooted over against me. Nice way to emphasize a point, I guess. "But, we have all seen each other at one point or another. Fact is, ya can't live in the close quarters that we do and not have it happen at least a few times." I nodded, realizing what he'd said was true. This reminded me of something else.

"Kev," I began, "you don't have to stay with me all day. If you wanna go hang with the guys, that's ok with me," I said quietly. I didn't want him to think I didn't WANT him around. But I felt a little guilty that he was spending all this time with me.

"Dylan, I wanna be with you. The guys and I are gonna be together for the next three weeks without you. This is my time," he said firmly, squeezing me tighter against him to let me know he meant it.

"I know, Kev, but I feel bad that you're just hangin' here while I sleep so much. You can't be this tired," I voiced my concern.

"Just being here, holding you, is plenty for me. No, I'm not probably going to sleep the whole time that you do. But, there is nowhere else that I'd rather be than with you, ok?"

I decided on a compromise.

"How `bout we flip on a movie? We could get something off of pay-per-view. They usually have quite a few movies on these in-room systems."

"Are you sure? You should probably sleep some more," Dr. Dictator appeared out of nowhere.

"I know, Kev, and I'm sure I'll drift off once we start watching. But, it'd give you something more to do than watch me sleep," I said with a smile. "As long as I'm here," I hugged him to show what I meant, "with you, I'll sleep fine."

"Ok. As long as it won't keep you awake, sweetie," he agreed and reached for the remote.

For some bizarre reason understood only by him, Kevin picked Sleepy Hollow'. I had nothing against it. Actually, I'd seen it already and thought it was a pretty decent version of a favorite story of mine. But not exactly what I would call relaxing fare for me. Maybe Kevin was coming out of his Florence Nightingale' phase.

Kev propped himself up a bit against the headboard of the bed, stealing a few pillows from the other bed for some support. I leaned over and lay my head on his stomach, listening to the sound of his breathing against my ear. I pushed the sheet down to his waist so I could feel his skin. I was tempted to push it further, but I knew this would cause us some trouble.

The movie began, and, within minutes, heads were flying. Or rolling in some cases. One thing about it, Tim Burton could always be counted on to do things just a little differently.

I eventually fell asleep, feeling Kevin's hand stroking the back of my neck.

Chapter 24

When I woke up, I was alone again, facing towards the window. It took a second to remember where I was. I eventually figured out that I was in Kev's hotel room. I also figured out that there was a lot more light in the room than there should have been. I let out a little moan as I stretched and turned over.

Kevin was over near the door, talking with AJ. They'd apparently turned on the bathroom light so they could see, which explained why it seemed so bright in there.

Kev padded over when heard me moan. He sat down on the bed, facing towards me. I leaned over and lay on his legs, looking up at him. He smiled down at me.

"Sleep well, D?" he asked.

"Mmmmm, yeah. Sure did. But you weren't there when I woke up again, Kevy," I said, using my pouty voice. "I'm gonna start thinkin' there's something wrong with me if you keep ditchin' me just before I wake up." I smiled at him to let him know I was kidding.

"You just keep wakin' up too soon, man. I was gonna come back just as soon as I finished talkin' with AJ." That reminded me that AJ was still in the room. I turned to him.

"Hi, AJ," I said.

"Hey, Dylan. You feelin' better, man?" He had that weird look in his eyes again. I didn't know what to make of it.

"Yeah. I'm still a little tired, but `Florence Nightingale' over here's been takin' good care of me." I slapped Kev on the thigh.

"Well, that's good. Maybe you can convince him to come with us tonight, then," AJ replied.

"AJ," Kev started. I interrupted him.

"Go with you where, AJ?" I asked.

"The other guys and I are gonna go hit a club or two. Just check out the night life a little," he supplied. I turned back to Kev.

"Sounds like it'll be fun, Kev. Why don't you wanna go?"

"Dylan, you're sick. I don't wanna leave you here alone. What if something happens?" Mr. Concerned. How sweet. I smiled.

"Kevin, I'm not on death's door, ok? And I'm not sick. I'm just very tired. I've gotten plenty of rest today, and I'll probably do the same thing tonight. There's no reason for you to hang out here, listening to me snore, when you could be out having some fun with the guys." He hesitated. I could tell he wanted to go, but he wanted to stay here a lot worse. I leaned up closer to him, trying to be quiet so AJ didn't hear.

"Kev, the guys have to know that you're still their friend. They need to know that your relationship with me isn't gonna change things for them. After everything that's happened, they need to know that you can deal without me. That you're not gonna get so wrapped up in me that you forget about them." He seemed to consider my argument. He gave in.

"Ok, AJ. I'll go with you guys tonight," he said, still looking at my face. I nodded a little, smiling.

"Great, Kev!" AJ was obviously excited. And relieved? Maybe I was wrong about that. I had trouble reading him sometimes. "We're headin' out in an hour, so get ready. We'll drop by and get ya then."

"Sounds good, bro," Kev said as he stood to walk AJ out. "I'll catch y'all in an hour, then." AJ nodded as Kev opened the door.

"Bye, AJ. Don't get into too much trouble tonight," I called, joking.

AJ turned around with that look again. His eyes said something I didn't understand, and he had a small smile on his face. Kevin couldn't see him, as he was standing behind him. But it made me feel...weird. He nodded at me and walked out.

I ordered dinner while Kevin hopped in the shower. I was sorely tempted to go help him wash up, but I knew we'd never get done before the food was here. Actually, it was a good bet that we wouldn't get done before the guys showed up to take my man away.

I was a little bummed that Kevin was going out tonight. But, as I'd told him, I knew the guys needed to see that I wasn't going to take him away from them. I didn't want to be a couple that excluded everyone else from their lives.

Kev finished up in the bathroom just as the waiter arrived. I tossed on a pair of boxers and a t-shirt, then opened the door. It was a woman this time. She seemed pretty friendly, but she did raise an eyebrow when Kevin walked out in just his pants and no shirt. I wasn't too concerned, however, as I think she was more admiring his fine physique than making any assumptions about the two of us. I signed the check and she left.

I sat down at the table, moving the plates around and getting things in order. Kev came up behind me, bending down to kiss the back of my neck. I smiled, leaning back into his kiss.

"If you keep that up, you're never gonna get outta here tonight, baby," I half-groaned, half-spoke.

"And your point is?" he replied, then returned his lips to my neck. Point? What point?

Fortunately, Kevin's stomach could always be counted on to remind us of mealtime. It let out with a monstrous growl, and I couldn't help but start laughing. He did, too, then stood up and moved around the table.

"That one sounded kinda dangerous," I said. "Are you sure you're feeling ok?"

"Well, I dunno," he answered. "Maybe I should stay home after all."

"Oh, no you don't. You are gonna go out and have some fun tonight. You slept with the invalid enough today!" I said in a slightly sarcastic voice. Then I got serious, "Really, though, Kev. You need to be with the guys for a bit. Things between you got bad when you got a little too involved with Glen and less involved with them. I don't ever want them to think, or you to think for that matter, that you have to spend every waking moment with me. I love you. That's not gonna change because you go spend some time with other people."

"Yeah, you're right," he sighed. "I can't keep `em out of my life just cause I have you in it." He looked up at me. "Just like I wouldn't expect you to stop seeing your friends just to be with me." I didn't mention that, aside from him, Lindsay, and Nick, I really didn't have that many friends.

We continued to talk, just about day to day stuff. I knew he was nervous about going out tonight, not only because I'd be here alone, but also it was the first time in a while the guys had gone out together.

Nick showed up as expected, ready to spirit my boy out into the Houston nightlife. Having never been to Houston, I had no idea what that meant. And I wasn't likely to find out on this trip, either, considering I was in bed tonight and would be at their concert tomorrow.

I gave Kev a deep kiss when he left, partly to let him know I was ok, and partly to let him know that I'd also be happy when he was back with me. I did have one other rule to remind him of, also.

"I'll probably be sleeping when you get back," I said, talking quietly so Nick wouldn't hear, "so, just in case, don't forget the dress code." He gave me a slightly puzzled look. I just stared back for a second, figuring he'd get it soon enough. He did, breaking into a big smile.

"Of course, babe. `Night for now. I love you," he said, leaning over for a kiss. I kissed him back before pushing him towards the door.

"I love you, too. Now, go! Tear up the town for a while," I laughed, closing the door behind them.

This time when I woke up, it was to a warm body next to me. Much better! I would have to congratulate him. Later, of course. Right now, I was too busy enjoying the lips that had started nibbling on my ear. And too drowsy to notice that something didn't feel totally right.

I was laying on my side, facing the wall again. He was behind me, pressed up against my back. He started running his hands around me, skimming one over my stomach while the other ran through my spiky hair. The roving fingers on my stomach slowly made their way down to my waist, hesitating when he reached my boxers.

I smiled as he paused, figuring he'd say something about the fact I was violating the `dress code' I'd mentioned to him earlier: nude when in bed. I'd taken off my t-shirt, but drifted off before I stripped all the way down.

To my surprise, he didn't say anything, just started kissing down my cheek. I guess he just wanted to keep the mood going. I turned my head, giving him access to my lips as his hand slid into my boxers. He wrapped his hand around me, giving me a squeeze, and I moaned as he slid his tongue in my mouth. I brought one hand up to the side of his head, planning on pressing him further into my mouth, when I realized somethin' was VERY wrong. Kevin didn't have that many earrings. And he wasn't wearing the hoop style.

I surged out of bed, stumbling back into the wall. I almost tripped over a chair, but managed to catch myself. I couldn't find a light, so I yanked the curtains open. There was enough light coming in from the city outside to show me my guest.

"AJ?!?!?"

And the dreaded...To Be Continued!!!

Here's my little blackmail for this section. If ya ever wanna see the conclusion to this, e-mail me. Or live forever wondering if Dylan will toss Kev aside for AJ!!!