Jumping Over My Mountain - 21. Chapter 21

Jumping Over My Mountain
by Tiffani Chin

Chapter 21

---------------------------------------------

************SKYLER**********

I frowned as I gently rubbed my fingers along Zeke's forehead and the large bruise that stretched across his skin.

Last night it looked bad. Overnight it got even worse. Instead of the bright red and purple color, the bruise was now a grotesque black and blue, with a sizable bump. The bridge of his nose was a little bruised too, and there was a small nick with dried blood imbedded in it.

When Davy had called me last night and told me what happened, I was fucking pissed.

Angry that this happened to Zeke. Angry that he didn't want to tell me. Like I wouldn't want to know my boyfriend got hurt at some fucking frat party?

I was worried that Zeke had too much to drink at this party solely because he was feeling lonely and missing everyone. I knew it was hard for him to go back to school when all his friends were in a different state, but I know think he felt that bad. I mean he had friends and a pretty cool roommate. In the past, he had done well without me by his side.

In some ways, I was worried that Zeke was becoming too dependant on me for his happiness. I wanted him to be ok whenever I wasn't around; otherwise I would be really worried about him all the time.

Anyway, after the phone call, I told everyone where I was going, packed some clothes and drove to Boston.

Crew was shocked about my quitting snowboarding, but understood why I did it. After all the time Zeke and I had been spending together and my previous visits, it was like serious withdrawal not seeing one another for four months straight. In that case, snowboarding didn't seem like so much fun or that important. I really didn't need the money. Being with Zeke, making sure he was ok, was the most important thing to me.

As I stroked his forehead I smiled down at him. He slept soundly, with a small hint of a smile on his lips.

Zeke was so beautiful. My hand moved up to his fluffy light blond hair. His buzz cut had grown out a little, so it felt nice to run my fingers through it. I stroked his rosy cheeks with my pointer finger and then outlined the smile on his full red lips.

He opened his eyes, revealing the dark, husky blue shade. I leaned down and kissed his forehead and then both of his eyelids.

"Morning," I whispered.

He smiled widely in response and turned into my body, snuggling deeper. I chuckled.
His face was buried in my neck, so I leaned down and kissed his cheek and neck continuously until he stirred.

"I can't sleep if you do that," he murmured.

"That's the idea," I whispered back.

Zeke wildly threw his arm over my stomach and shifted around to get comfortable.

"I'm gonna go shower," I said softly. He mumbled something incoherent in response. I smiled, knowing Zeke was definitely not a morning person. Then again neither was I. But I rushed over here last night without taking a shower and I felt gross.

I took my shower supplies and walked to the bathroom, nodding and waving to some people that I had gotten to know last semester. By the time I came back to the room, I saw Davy quietly looking for something on his desk. Zeke was still sleeping.

Davy looked up at me when I entered the room and smiled.

"Hey man," I greeted.

"Hey."

"Where'd you go last night?" I asked.

"To my friend's place. I figured you two would want some privacy."

I grinned, "Thanks man, but nothing went on."

He looked surprised, "Really?"

"Yeah. We just slept. He was pretty beat up."

Davy nodded frowning, "Yeah he was. I want to find out who did this to him."

"How are you going to do that?"

"It was a frat party but there's no guarantee he is in a frat. Hell, he could have been just a visiting friend," Davy said.

"Yeah, it would be hard to find him."

"Well, I'm gonna try. Too much bad shit happens to Zeke; it isn't right. I mean, he helps people all the time, even strangers. This is what he gets in return? Bigoted idiots attacking him when he was trying to have fun like a normal person?"

I knew that Davy and Zeke were tight. Zeke had told me that during sophomore year Davy had some issues getting to class and needed to bring his grades up to get out of academic probation. Zeke would actually go to Davy's classes with him to make sure he got there. Zeke would help him with homework and keep him on track. I knew that Davy was really grateful for all of that.

"While I am here, I want to find the fucker who did this," I agreed.

"No, don't do anything to get yourself into trouble," Zeke groaned out, sleepily stretching, his legs tangled in the sheets. He yawned, his mouth opening wide, reminding me of a kitten.

I smiled and sank into the bed beside him, rubbing his stomach. He opened his eyes, smiling at me and then at Davy.

"Come on Zeke, this is me we're talking about. I was made to get into trouble and out of it without a scratch," I said rather proudly and joined in when Davy and Zeke began to laugh.

"What?" I asked innocently, "It's true. This pretty face of mine never gets into trouble."

"Yeah, I can see that," Davy said nodding and grinning.

"I gotta piss," Zeke said stumbling out of bed and out of the room.

Davy turned to me, "So we're gonna get this guy, right?"

"Absolutely," I answered confidently and with determination.

This guy liked to attack people. Well he picked the wrong fucking night to start shit with Zeke. This motherfucker sure as hell was gonna be taught a lesson, Skyler style.

*************

"Dude, I think that's him," Angelo said nudging my side. I was walking with Davy and Angelo back to the dorms after lunch, while Zeke was in class.

Zeke didn't want me to get in trouble or cause any trouble, but I couldn't just sit there and let that rapist-wannabe walk around fucking his girlfriend while stalking out drunken gay guys.

I was an unofficial vigilante, if you will.

So I did the boyfriend thing and kissed Zeke reassuringly and told him not to worry. Nevertheless, Zeke knew me well enough to know that if I set my mind on something, it was gonna be done no matter what. But he just sighed and tried not to think about it.

"Are you sure?" I asked Angelo.

Angelo narrowed his eyes, studying the guy. Then he nodded, "Yeah, when Zeke pointed him out, I got a clear look at him. He didn't get a chance to run anywhere because people had him surrounded, asking questions."

"Did you find out his name?" Davy questioned.

Angelo shook his head, "I don’t know his last name for sure, but I think it’s Riley Tyson, or something with a T."

"Well, let's go kick his ass!" Davy said heading over.

I grabbed onto his hulking 6'3 frame and pulled him back.

"No," I said firmly.

"No?" Davy and Angelo asked incredulously.

"Don't you want to get him back for what he did?" Davy wondered.

I smiled, "Of course I do, but there are better ways to do it. More humiliating, less violent. Zeke would never forgive me for one, and second, I'm not a violent person by nature. "

Angelo smiled, "Are you planning something bad?" He looked excited and I was beginning to really like this guy.

"You don't know me that well, but I'm always planning something bad," I replied grinning, "That's just how I roll."

Davy frowned, "I still want to kick his pansy ass. See how tough he is when he fights someone sober and his size."

"Down Davy," Angelo joked, "Let's hear what Skyler's got planned. I'm interested."

"Fine," Davy grumbled folding his arms.

I laughed and slapped him on the back, "We'll get him; trust me. But I think we need to know more about this guy. He seems to know that Zeke is gay and has a boyfriend. He must have seen us on campus. He knows Angelo from the party and you Davy, ‘cause you're his roommate."

"So, then what?" Angelo asked frowning.

"We need reinforcements. Great things take careful planning, my friend," I said grinning and raising my eyebrows, flipping my cell phone open.

"Reinforcements?" Davy and Angelo asked together with confusion as I searched through my phone book.

**************BRYCE***********

"I feel like crap," Hela moaned wiggling under the covers and closing his eyes.

"I know Hela, but we have to go to work. We have that presentation today, remember?"

"Yeah," Hela groaned, "But my mouth is so sore."

"Sore?" I asked grinning.

He shot me a dirty look, "I have some kind of gum sore, ass. Don't knock me when I'm in pain," he grumbled.

I laughed and crawled into bed beside him, "I'm sorry baby," I said softly, kissing his cheek and then his lips lightly. I felt him begin to kiss me back and his hand came around my neck.

I pulled back, "So you feel ok enough to kiss, huh?" I teased.

"Well, the pain comes and goes," he said reaching for me again, but I dodged his hands.

"Up," I said slapping his ass, "Get ready. We're going to work today. We'll have soup for lunch," I said firmly, pulling on his hand.

With a loud sigh, he got up and headed to the bathroom, while I blatantly stared at his bare ass.

**************

I studied the tall dark haired guy in the navy suit who was standing close to Hela and smiling way too much at my boyfriend for my liking.

We were presenting our pitch with Andy and Lance, another coworker on some ad campaign for this new company, and the owner of the company was young, good looking, successful, and showing way too much interest in Helaku.

Hela was Mr. Social and Mr. Friendly, and didn't notice anything about
Nigel Lane or his obvious flirting. Hela was just laughing along and having fun.

I could hardly jump up and claim ownership of Hela because that would effectively out the both of us to our entire department. I knew for a fact that Hela didn't want that; nor did I.

I glared at Nigel as I saw his brown eyes scanning Hela up and down while Hela was reaching for some paperwork.

I admit it, I got jealous easily.

Hela glanced at me and smiled, but it faded when he saw my expression. I watched as his face became confused and concerned, but he wiped it off when he turned back to Nigel.

The rest of the presentation wasn't so bad. Andy and Lance did a lot of the talking but I noticed that while those guys were talking, Nigel's eyes always somehow made it back to Hela.

When the meeting was over, Hela walked with me back to our cubicles.

"Are you ok? You look pissed?"

I stared at him without answering. He began to frown.

"What?"

"Nigel," I stated.

His green eyes looked blank, "What? Nigel? Wat about him?"

"He was totally into you," I said.

Hela groaned, "Oh Bryce, if he was, it was no big deal. That guy was too loaded and uptight for my liking, even as a friend. I wouldn't have given him a second thought if you hadn't brought him up. Besides you and I are gonna go home in a few hours and you're gonna make me feel better."

"Huh?" I asked dumbly, "Make you feel better?"

"Yeah," Hela said winking, "My tooth hurts."

I laughed, "Are you serious?"

"Yeah," Hela said widening his eyes, grabbing my ass slightly, "I need lots and lots of pain treatment," he said kissing my neck lightly.

I inhaled his cologne and couldn't resist wrapping my arms around him.

My Helaku.

At that moment I saw Nigel walking towards the elevator. He happened to look in our direction. He slowed his pace and stared at us, with a weird expression on his face that I couldn't quite read. It didn't look good though. The guy looked calculating and that worried me. In fact, he reminded me of my Dad, and that really scared me. I had a feeling trouble would be ahead.

************HELAKU**********

I picked up my cell phone on the third ring.

"Yeah?" I said breathlessly. It was a tiring Saturday, cleaning the apartment. I didn't understand how the place could get so dirty so fast.

It just didn't make sense.

Bryce was out getting groceries and we were planning a nice dinner together, so I figured he could at least come home to a clean place.

“Helaku?” The voice on the phone was one I didn't recognize.

"Who is this?" I asked frowning.

"Nigel Lane."

Huh?

"Mr. Lane? Oh hi, um, what can I do for you?" I asked confused he would be calling me on a Saturday evening, on my cell, no less.

The man's deep voice filled my ear, "I would like to meet up with you sometime this week," he said, getting right to the point.

I raised my brow in shock, not knowing what to say.

The head of companies usually didn't make requests to hang out with the workers they were hiring.

"Uh, do you have some questions about the ad campaign, because you should really talk with Andy and Lance. They did the legwork of the ad. Bryce and I just helped with the research," I said grabbing a sponge and wiping down the counter.

Nigel laughed, "No, there is no problem. I just have a proposition for you."

"Ok," I said slowly, still a bit confused.

"Are you free for dinner sometime this week?" Nigel asked smoothly.

"Well, I would have to check," I began.

"How about Wednesday night? I'll pick you up from work?" Nigel went on, not letting me finish my sentence.

"I don't know about," I tried again.

"Ok, I will be at your office at 5:00. I will meet you on your floor. I remember where your cubicle is," Nigel said sounding pleased.

"Mr. Lane, I have to get back to you on-"

"Please call me Nigel," he interrupted.

"Ok, fine, Nigel," I said impatiently, "I'll get back to you on my avail-"

"I will see you then Helaku," and with that he hung up. I stared at my cell phone in shock and amazement. Jeez, this guy really didn't take no for an answer, did he?

"Hela?" Bryce called out as he walked inside our apartment.

"What's wrong?" he asked kissing my cheek as I still stared at my phone.

"Did someone just call?" Bryce continued frowning, as he set the groceries on the newly cleaned kitchen table.

"Yeah."

"Who?"

"Nigel Lane," I said still slightly confused.

Bryce frowned and stepped closer to me, "Nigel Lane? Why? What did he want?"

"He wanted to know if I was free for dinner," I answered.

Bryce's eyes widened, "When, tonight?" he demanded.

I shook my head, "No, for sometime this week."

"Did you tell him no?" Bryce asked, his voice getting a little louder.

I took a step back, "I tried to-"

"What do you mean you tried to?" Bryce interjected.

I sighed. Why wasn't anyone letting me finish my sentences?

"I tried to, I really did," I said looking imploringly at Bryce's annoyed expression, "He kept making plans, like for Wednesday, saying he would pick me up or meet me at the office. I kept saying I would have to get back to him and I didn't know if-"

"Why didn't you just say NO?" Bryce snapped.

"Because he wouldn't let me get a word in. It was as if he was making the plans without really asking me!" I exclaimed back.

"I don't want you to go to dinner with him or anything at all. That guy is trouble. What did he say he wanted?"

"That he had a proposition for me."

"A proposition?" Bryce asked raising his eyebrows, "I can guess what that proposition might be."

"What is that supposed to mean?" I asked frowning.

Bryce looked at me like I was an idiot, "Hela, Nigel is attracted to you. He saw us as he was leaving. We were hugging. He knows you have a boyfriend and he still wants you. There is something up with this guy. Something bad and calculating. He's trouble, I know he is. He's gonna try to sleep with you."

I laughed and Bryce shot me a dirty look.

"Look Bryce, just because HE wants to sleep with ME, doesn't mean he's gonna get any," I said smiling, "I don't want him."

Bryce looked conflicted and bit his lip, "I know, but people like him, they're good."

"What?"

"He's a smooth talker, like he talked you into having dinner with him. After dinner he'll talk you into going to his amazing mansion to check out some art or whatever. Then he'll talk you into trying a nice drink. Before you know it, the two of you are in bed," Bryce ranted looking ready to pull out his hair.

"Wow, how do you know so much about this?" I asked eyeing him.

He glared at me, "Please, that's not me, ok?" he snapped, "I could barely muster the courage to talk to you. You think I could persuade someone to fuck me on the first night?" he asked, then paused, "Don't answer that!" he cried out holding up his hand, "My Dad was like that; he still is. Guys like him are trouble. Stay away from him."

Even though I sort of agreed with him on the Nigel matter, I didn't appreciate his bossy and firm tone when he told me to stay away from him.

It was the immature mentality, like if someone told you not to do something, you had to go out of your way and do it.

"Was that an order?" I challenged, folding my arms.

Bryce looked at me, his eyes dark with anger and something else. What was it? Fear maybe?

"No, it wasn't an order," Bryce said sighing, "I just, I, well, I would just feel more comfortable if you didn't go out to dinner with him. I would like it if you didn't see him ever again," he said, carefully choosing his words.

I smiled, "Good save."

Bryce grinned, "I know how you don't like to be ordered."

I walked over and wrapped my arms around his chest, "That is true."

"So you won't see him?" Bryce asked.

"I won't see him," I confirmed, "When he shows up at the office on Wednesday, you and I will just tell him I can't and whatever proposition he has to tell me, he can tell me in front of you or anyone else," I said hugging Bryce.

I felt Bryce relax against me. He audibly sighed.

I frowned, not knowing why Bryce was so worried. I honestly didn’t see any problem with having dinner with Nigel. I knew for a fact that I wasn't interested in Nigel whatsoever, but it obviously bothered Bryce, so out of respect for him, I would do whatever to make him happy or feel safe.

"I love you," I murmured into his ear.

I heard Bryce inhale sharply. He spun around, claiming my lips with his own, kissing me urgently. Never one to turn down a kiss, my hand went under his shirt feeling his warm back. I pulled him into me, feeling his tongue swirling around mine.

"What about dinner?" I gasped out as he continued to kiss me on my lips and my neck.

"Later, we have time for a quickie before dinner," Bryce whispered urgently, pushing me onto the couch.

All I managed was a muffled response as I fell onto the couch with a loud oomph. My arms came up to support Bryce's weight as he kind of jumped onto me.

"Holy shit Bryce," I mumbled as I kissed his neck. I gripped his waist as he moved over me. His hands were under my shirt, touching my chest. I was getting hornier and hornier by the second.

I impatiently shed my shirt, chucking it to the floor and Bryce's hands eagerly roamed my naked torso. With an animalistic growl, I pushed Bryce forcefully. He flopped on his back on the couch and I leaned over him, kissing him roughly.

I felt his hands unbuckling my belt and unbuttoning my jeans. His hands tugged my jeans to my knees. His fingers groped my hard-on through my boxers. I moaned into his mouth and got off of him briefly to kick off my pants.

Bryce lunged on top of me while I was straddling his hips. I was now flat on my back.

"Clothes-take them off," I panted as I grabbed at his sweater and pulled it over his head.

He shed his sweats and underwear off in one quick peel. When he kissed me again, we were both naked, our hot flesh rubbing against each other, a layer of sweat developing on the both of us.

"Lube?" Bryce breathed out as his lips traveled all over my face.

"In the bedroom," I responded heatedly.

Bryce groaned, "Too far."

"It's ok, just do it," I said blind with lust, passion, and love.

Bryce stopped what he was doing and looked at me, "Without lube? I'll hurt you."

I shook my head, "It's ok, just go slow," I said pulling his face back to mine, exploring his mouth with my tongue.

"I have an idea," Bryce said as he broke away and pulled me up with him.

"What?" I asked, missing his body against mine.

Bryce tugged me into the kitchen and pushed me onto the table, face first. I used my arms to offset the impact, and my chest hit the table with a dull thud.

I watched as he grabbed a bottle of oil and got behind me, kicking my legs further apart, in a frenzy. I gripped the edge of the kitchen table and felt him slip in an oiled finger.

"Fuck," I groaned out, the pleasure rippling throughout my body as he hit my prostate.

I hissed as he added another finger. I held onto the table for dear life as the sensations washed over me.

"Ready, baby?" Bryce asked as he added a third finger and fucked me, widening my hole.

"Yes!" I gasped. I cried out in a mixture of pleasure and pain as he added a fourth finger, stretching me out as much as possible.

He maneuvered the four fingers in and out, slowly, easing me open.

I was going crazy, feeling like I needed to cum, but being teased sensually with his long gentle fingers sliding within me. It was enough to almost drive me to the brink of insanity.

"Ok baby," Bryce whispered. There was a pause and I assumed he was slicking his cock with oil.

A moment later I winced as he pushed the head inside of me.

"You ok?" he asked when he heard the involuntary whimper escape my lips.

"Yes, keep going," I said. I pushed my ass back against him, hearing him mumble his approval as a couple more inches of him sank into me.

"Hela," he murmured, easing himself inside of me further and I felt my hole being stretched wide open. There was a slight burning feeling, but he was going slowly so it wasn't too painful.

Moments later, I felt his balls slap against my ass and I knew he was completely inside of me. Giving me a minute to adjust, he rotated his hips slightly. I jerked when the head of his cock brushed against my prostate.

"Is that it baby?" Bryce teased as he directed his gentle thrusts in that same spot.

"God, yes!" I groaned, my eyes closed, my mouth wide open as I panted with anticipation.

I spread my legs further and arched my back, giving him better access. Bryce slowly pulled out, and then sank back into me in long, calculated thrusts as if he wanted to make this last.

In.

Out.

I felt my body rub against the table as I was splayed out on it. The friction from the rubbing caused my body to heat up even more. My fingers gripped the edges of the table as Bryce heatedly made love to me.

In.

Out.

Bryce began to pick up speed as his breathing became labored and I figured his release wouldn't be far off. I knew I would cum soon if Bryce kept hitting my prostate with the force he was going at currently.

The faster and shorter his thrusts became, the harder they also got and pretty soon he was banging directly on my prostate. All I could do was emit strangled cries as I was helpless while he made love to me.

"Hela, I'm gonna cum," Bryce said and I tried to lift my torso, but his body fell down on top of mine, pinning me to the table. His other hand wrapped around my cock and he pumped me hard and fast, his fist closing tightly around my width.

I clawed at the table, feeling immobilized as Bryce pounded me. I felt the tingle in my groin as his hand stroked me and I screamed as a powerful orgasm ripped through my entire body.

I dug my nails into the table and braced my feet firmly on the ground as my knees buckled and my stomach muscles tensed and contracted over and over again. I cried out as my orgasm went on and his hand continued to jerk me off. I didn't know if I would ever stop cumming.

"Bryce," I whimpered as his hand slid up and down my length, milking me.

Somewhere in the back of my mind I registered that Bryce was cumming as well. I heard him shout and push his hips into me one last time and then there was an explosion of heat deposited in my ass.

Bryce humped me a few more times, but then stopped, probably because he was too sensitive. His hand let go of my softening cock and he rested on top of me, breathing heavily, as was I.

His lips kissed my neck and shoulder blades and my eyes were still closed, basking in the afterglow of our lovemaking and our combined release.

"God," I said sighing, unable to come up with anything else.

"Yes?" Bryce asked giggling. The vibrations from his laughing made my back tingle.

I began laughing as well and both of our bodies were bouncing up and down as we dissolved into a huge laughing fit.

"That was intense," I finally said when the both of us calmed down.

"Yeah," Bryce agreed.

"I'm a mess."

"You are," Bryce said.

"You made me mess up the floor," I said, indicating my cum that had created a little pool on the tiles, "and I just cleaned it five minutes ago."

Bryce eased his flaccid cock out of me and sat beside me on the table. I slowly stood up and sat down gingerly next to him, my hole a little tender.

I felt his cum oozing out of me and I looked at him sideways, "And now you made a mess on the table."

"I'm sorry. I'll help you clean again," Bryce said lacing his fingers with mine.

He actually looked apologetic. He was just so adorable with that puppy-dog-look on his face, as if he really thought he had done something wrong.

I brushed his sweaty bangs off his forehead so I could see his eyes.

I shook my head and smiled at him affectionately.

"I was just kidding," I said leaning in to kiss him again.

**************BRYCE************

"Ready to go?" I asked Hela as I put the last folder away in my drawer.

"Yeah, hold up," Hela said as he shut off his computer, "Ok, now I'm ready."

I smiled at him as we both made our way to the elevator. We didn't get too far before we stopped in our tracks.

Nigel Lane.

That's right; today was Wednesday. Stupid Nigel was trying to force a date out of my Hela.

I shot him a cold look as both Hela and I stopped in front of him. Nigel simply ignored me and focused his stare at Hela.

"Ready for dinner?"

"Uh, yeah, listen about that…" Hela began.

"He's not going to dinner with you," I said, louder than I intended.

This time, Nigel's brown eyes fell on me. He arched his brow in a challenging manner.

"Bryce," Hela said from the side of his mouth.

"We're going home," I said insistently shooting Hela a firm look. He closed his mouth.

Hela looked at Nigel apologetically, "Goodbye Nigel."

Nigel looked a little shocked and maybe impressed with being turned down, as if he had never been turned down before.

"Yes, goodbye Hela. For now," he added. I turned to look at him as we passed him to get to the elevators.

He smirked at me and I felt my stomach tense up. His face looked sneaky. He was planning something.

"Goodbye to you too, Bryce," Nigel called out just as the elevator doors began to close.

He blew me a mocking kiss as the door closed.

I immediately turned to Hela, "See? He's trouble!" I exclaimed.

"Bryce."

"What did I tell you?" I continued.

Hela looked at me and kissed me quickly, "I don't necessarily think he's trouble, but I will stay away from him, ok?"

"You don't think he's trouble? Didn't you see how he acted?"

He shrugged, "Well he has a bit of an attitude, a cocky one at that, but he's harmless." Hela stepped through the opening doors when we reached the garage, and we headed for his car.

"Yeah, everyone's harmless until they do something," I muttered under my breath.

***************

The next afternoon, I saw Hela's Uncle heading towards us.

"Hela, I need to talk with you," he said.

"Yes?"

"Nigel Lane called me," Mr. McAdams began. I tensed up and bristled, waiting for what he was going to say next.

"What for?" Hela asked frowning.

Mr. McAdams was smiling, "Nothing bad," he assured Hela, "but he has something to tell you."

"So where is he?" Hela asked looking around.

"Oh, he's not here now," Mr. McAdams explained, "But he said he would like to set up a meeting with you. He's busy for the rest of the week, but would like to meet up with you for dinner Friday night."

Dinner on a Friday night? That sounded like a date to me.

Hela glanced at me and Mr. McAdams smiled, "Relax Hela, and Bryce," he added, "It's not a date. Trust me; he just wants to discuss something with you."

I frowned at the secretive undertones of what Mr. McAdams was saying. Why couldn't he just say whatever it was?

"Um, what time Friday night?" Hela asked hesitantly. I looked at him with shock.

"He'll pick you up after work," Mr. McAdams said. He knocked the cubicle wall with his knuckles twice before walking off towards his own office.

"You're going?" I demanded when Hela turned back to me.

He shrugged helplessly, "What else am I supposed to do? He needs to see me and my Uncle expects me to go. I have to go," he defended himself.

I sighed, "Yeah, I guess so."

"I promise to call you right after I finish dinner, ok?" Hela said trying to comfort me.

I nodded, "Fine."

I guess that was the best I could get.

Nigel Lane, going to our boss to get to Hela...that sneaky fucking bastard.

***********SKYLER***********

"Hey bro," I said walking inside our previously shared apartment. I had recently moved in with my Mom while Kate moved in with Storm.

Between both of our school schedules, living in different locations, and my visiting Zeke every weekend, we hadn't seen each other in quite awhile. I honestly missed my brother.

I didn't get a reply, which I found odd. I shrugged it off and placed two pizza boxes on the kitchen table. I began rummaging around for drinks in the fridge.

I heard the front door open just as I managed to find a can of Pepsi and I sipped on it while I waited for Storm to come by.

Storm entered and when he saw me, he did a double take and took a step back, his face startled.

"Holy fucking shit!" he gasped.

"Dude," I said holding my hands up.

"Fuck, Sky, you scared me."

I smirked, "I scared you? Who else could it have been? We have the same face," I laughed, "What, did you think someone placed a mirror in the middle of the kitchen or something?" I guffawed.

Storm just glared at me, apparently too tired to deal with my normal annoying sense of humor.

"Calm down man, I just brought some food over," I said waving to the pizza boxes trying to appease him.

Storm took a deep breath and nodded, "Thanks man. Sorry for the mini freak out. I haven't been sleeping all that well and I guess I've been jumpy lately."

"Understandable," I said, taking in Storm's appearance. He did look tired, with dark circles under his eyes, his skin paler than normal, and he looked a little haggard or thinner, especially around the face.

"Well, you look like crap, so eat something," I said sitting down. He rolled his eyes before plopping down in a chair.

"Where's Kate?" I asked.

"Took her to her friend's place in Somerset," Storm said rubbing his eyes.

"Glad to have some alone time?" I asked.

"Absolutely," Storm said, "I don't mind helping Kate out and living with her. We get along pretty well, but pregnant women are so emotional and unstable. With school and stuff, I don't know how much longer I can stay sane."

I laughed, "That sucks man."

"Thanks Sky."

I shrugged.

"How's it living with mom?" he asked.

I smiled and quirked an eyebrow at him, "It's great. I love having Mom fawn all over me, now that I've officially taken your place as the favorite son."

Storm rolled his eyes, "Whatever, bonehead."

"Have you talked to Dad?" Storm suddenly asked, changing the subject abruptly.

The question caught me off guard, "No, why?"

"He called me and apologized for overreacting. He said he would try to help in the future," Storm said grabbing a slice.

"Whatever," I said dismissively.

"Has he tried to call you?"

I paused, "Yeah."

"How many times?"

"I don't know. I haven't kept count," I said nonchalantly.

"Skyler," Storm said in an almost patronizing tone that had me on the defensive.

"I don't want to talk to him," I said snippily.

"He was just upset," Storm said, "It was big news. We all got a little carried away that night."

I looked at Storm incredulously, "No fucking way! Dad's always been an asshole. He meant every word. You just forgave him because you're his good little son. I'll never forgive him for all those years of being ashamed of me or pushing me to be better, when I was just fine, and especially not for putting me down for being with Zeke. I don't care if he is my Dad. That doesn't automatically put him in good standing with me."

Storm sighed, "I know. I'm sorry. I was just trying to help."

"I know you were, but I don't know when I'll be ready to talk to Dad again. Every time I think about him and what happened, I get pissed."

"Ok, you need more time," Storm said.

"Like the rest of my life," I muttered.

Storm didn't bother to comment. He knew when I was really pissed off it wouldn't be wise to push me.

"Ok, so what else is new with you? I feel like I haven't spoken to you in months," Storm said swiftly changing topics.

I swallowed a large mouthful of pizza, "Well, we’re not going to California anymore."

"What?"

"Yeah, I'm staying on the East Coast."

"Why?"

"I just couldn't move," I admitted.

"Because of me?" Storm asked frowning.

I snorted, "Don't flatter yourself." I looked at him and smiled, "Yes, among other things. Like," I said facing Storm, "When I was in California, I couldn't find anything I liked enough to stay there. Let's face it, no place can compare to New York City. I would miss Mom and you, and Crew and Hiro, and even the oldies living upstairs. My entire life is here and I really want to see what your baby looks like," I said honestly.

Storm began smiling, "For sure? You're staying?"

I nodded and smirked at my twin, "Got excited didn't you? About finally getting rid of me? Well, I'm staying, bitch!" I pointed my fingers at him and he laughed.

"No, I'm glad you're staying."

"Me, too," I said sharing a grin, "Someone has got to keep you in check."

Storm raised his brow, "Keep me in check?"

"Yeah, if I remember correctly, I'm the one that has things going in the right direction for a change. If Zeke were a woman, everyone would be applauding me instead of looking down on me."

"No one looks down on you, Sky," Storm said.

"Dad does," I scoffed bitterly.

"Dad is old and doesn't understand stuff. He's a dick, I know, but that doesn't make anything about you and Zeke wrong. I mean, sure it was weird for me getting used to seeing you and Zeke together, acting like an actual couple, but you guys are great together. I already feel as if Zeke is my brother-in-law."

I grinned, "Thanks."

"So if you're staying, does that mean Uncle Skyler and Uncle Zeke will baby sit?" Storm asked, his lips curling in a teasing manner.

"Uh, I don't do well with babies. When the kid is five, then give me a call," I said reaching for another slice of pizza.

The rest of our lunch was spent by Storm trying to convince me to baby sit and arguing that little babies weren't all that bad.

**********HELAKU***********

"Bye, Bryce. I'll call you later," I promised as I spotted Nigel waiting for me. He was chatting with my Uncle and looking at me.

Bryce looked nervous and uneasy. I hated leaving him in that state. I wasn't that thrilled to be going on this dinner date either, but I didn't think I had much of a choice. I was in a tight spot. My Uncle wanted me to go on this meeting. How could I say no? I felt his hand holding my elbow as if he didn't want to let go.

"Bryce, it's going to be ok. I love you," I said turning to look him in the eye. I saw his face soften a bit and he smiled weakly.

"I know. I love you, too," he said.

"Well, that's good to hear," I teased pulling gently on his tie. He peeked at me, his blond bangs getting in his eyes. I was tempted to kiss him right here and now.

"You have nothing to worry about," I whispered as Nigel began to walk over to me, with a little strut in his gait. I grasped his hand in mine, only letting go when Nigel was directly in front of me.

I didn't know for sure if Nigel was gay, but I had a feeling. Either way, no PDA's at the office, even if my Uncle knew about us. We were trying to keep professional here.

"Ready to go?" Nigel asked smiling at me.

"Yeah," I said shooting one last glance at Bryce, who was looking at Nigel with disdain.

Nigel smiled in a superior manner at Bryce, "Good bye Bryce. See you around."

He then patted me on the back and nudged me lightly towards the elevator.

"I love you," I mouthed to Bryce, unable to resist looking back once more at Bryce and maintaining eye contact with him before the elevator door shut, even as Nigel tried to start a conversation with me.

I saw the sad look on Bryce's face and I felt a little nauseous. I really, really wanted to back out of this dinner. But corporate obligation called.

"So are you hungry?" Nigel asked turning to me. I finally glanced at him, "I know this great all-you-can-eat sushi place."

"Where is it?" I asked curiously.

"Not too far," Nigel answered vaguely and I frowned.

"Listen I don't want to be out too late, ok? Can we go somewhere more local?" I asked.

Nigel studied me and he pressed his lips together in a line.

"I like Italian food," I interjected, "Let's go to this place in Edison. It’s a really close drive from here."

Nigel opened his mouth to speak, but I rushed ahead, "I'll drive. My car is right over here," I said pointing and leading him before he could answer.

I unlocked my doors and shooed him to the passenger door. He looked annoyed as if he really wanted to drive, but I needed to be in control of this so-called ‘date-like’ atmosphere. That meant me driving us to dinner.

"Get in," I said forcing a friendly smile on my face. I got in myself, starting the car.

With a sigh, he finally sat inside and buckled up.

**************

"So what was this thing you had to tell or ask me?" I asked while I dipped my bread in olive oil mixed with various spices.

Nigel frowned and looked slightly confused.

"You told my Uncle you had to tell me something; so what is it?" I asked, a little impatiently.

"Oh that," Nigel said dismissively as he ate some bread himself, "Let's enjoy dinner and discuss work matters later." He smiled at me, trying to look charming, but even though the guy was good looking, something about his overly intrusive manner annoyed me.

I resisted the urge to roll my eyes and nodded in agreement.

"Fine," I said eating more bread. Since I was forced into a dinner with an aggressive man I didn't really care for, I may as well enjoy the food. Damn straight.

I knew Nigel was watching me. I simply ignored him as I continued to eat. By the end of our meal, he seemed frustrated. I answered all the questions he asked me, but to the bare minimum and I didn't engage in his flirting tactics.

I could tell this bothered him. He was the type of guy that got what he wanted. He hated it when guys didn't return his attention. He was even getting antsy in the car.

"Why don't you come to my place and we can finally have that discussion," Nigel suggested as I got closer to the parking deck at work.

"Can't you just tell me now?" I asked, "Not to be rude, but I would like to get home at a reasonable hour. It's the weekend after all," I said trying to remain polite.

"It won't be too long. We can have some coffee at my place," Nigel said in a placating tone.

I sighed, "Fine. Where do you live?"

Nigel directed me to his house, about twenty minutes from where we worked and his house was huge! He lived alone, but it was a pretty big house for one person. I noticed some nice cars in the driveway.

"Come in," Nigel urged and I followed him to where I assumed was the kitchen.

He took out some wine glasses and began pouring wine.

I shook my head, "No, it's ok. I have to drive back. I'll pass on the wine."

"Just have a little bit," Nigel coaxed and began walking to his living room. He sat on the leather couch and got comfortable, motioning for me to do the same. I sat down, but my back was straight and tense.

"Relax Helaku," Nigel said in a husky tone.

I smiled uneasily, thinking of Bryce and his warning to me about Nigel.

"You have such a beautiful name. What does it mean?" he asked.

"Full of sun," I answered automatically. I had been asked that question many times.

"Your Uncle told me you're Native American and Irish?"

I nodded, "Yeah."

Nigel's eyes ran over my body, "Beautiful mixture," he murmured with approval.

"Nigel, I'll be honest with you. I'm a little uncomfortable here. You're hitting on me and I'm spoken for," I said trailing off.

Nigel's eyes narrowed and his already dark brown eyes darkened even further.

"I know-by that Bryce," Nigel spat out.

"Yes, Bryce," I said bristling at his nasty tone, "Now, if there is really nothing to discuss, I must be going," I said standing up.

I yelped when he yanked me back down on the couch forcefully.

"I want you Helaku," he said in an almost angry tone.

"What?" I asked stupidly.

"I want you. Right now," Nigel said sliding his hand up my thigh. I shoved his hand off before he reached my package.

"Well, you can't have me," I said trying to stand up, but his arms came around me as he attempted to kiss me.

"Stop it!" I shouted, pushing him off. Although he was a little taller than me, he was thinner. That gave me the physical advantage, thank goodness. In addition, he had had some wine to drink with dinner and I hadn't.

He panted as he sat on his end of the couch staring at me, "I'm leaving. This whole night was a big waste of time," I said heading to the door.

"If you walk out that door, I won't be using your Uncle's company for my ad campaign," he called out to me.

I stopped walking and slowly turned to look at him. There was a smug expression on his face.

"What did you say?"

"You heard me," Nigel said standing up and adjusting his clothes and fixing his hair, "I won't be doing business with McAdams Ink. That would be a shame for your Uncle. My new trendy business would be great for your company. I could refer you to a lot of people. Imagine how bad your Uncle will feel when he finds out that his own nephew caused this deal to fall through."

"You can't do that!" I protested childishly. It was my automatic response.

Nigel grinned wider, "I can and I think I just did."

I opened my mouth, but nothing came out. I was feeling a bit of shock at this point. I never expected the evening to turn out this way.

He looked at me expectantly, his eyes combing over me appreciatively, "You're very sexy Helaku. I wouldn't have to do this if you would just give in to me. It won't be bad, I promise. I'm a good lover."

I shook my head, "No, I can't."

"Why, because of your precious blond boyfriend?" Nigel said dismissively.

I swallowed hard, "You can't do this. This is blackmail," I whispered.

Nigel smiled, tight lipped and strode over to me, "I know what blackmail is, my friend. That's how you get ahead in the business world and get to be where I am today." He inched closer. I felt his breath on my cheek.

His hand slid up my waist slowly. I felt my skin crawling. His other hand came to rest on my lower stomach, gradually moving up to my chest where he felt my pecs.I cringed and looked away.

My face was pulled so I was looking at him. I stared into his cold eyes; they disgusted me. "You're fucking hot, Helaku. Can you feel how hot you're making me?" he asked, moving forward and I indeed felt his hardness poking my leg.

"What is it going to be?" he asked.

I began to breathe hard. I had no idea what to do.

My first instinct was to say ‘hell no’ and run out the door. Then I thought about my Uncle and how excited he was to land this deal. My Uncle had been just as supportive as my Dad when I came out - if not more so. It was my Uncle who had given me a job when I really needed one. I loved my Uncle. I couldn't screw this up for him.

Then again, would he want me to whore myself for business and money? I didn't think so, but all these questions were coming too fast for me to answer.

I gasped when I felt Nigel's hand push down into my pants. I hunched over, trying to dislodge his hand. Nigel was relentless though, and kept groping me. His hand firmly found my member. He began to fondle me, stroking his thumb over the head rapidly.

Nigel smiled at me and kissed the corner of my mouth as I tried to fight him off. "Let me see how big you get."

"Stop!" I choked out but I couldn't help moaning as he moved his thumb aggressively over my piss slit. To my horror I found myself getting hard.

Nigel smiled, "That's it baby, just enjoy," he said looking me in the eye as his hand wrapped around my cock. He began to jerk me off slowly.

I gripped his arm trying to pull it away from me, but I felt my knees weaken a bit from the pleasurable sensations that washed over me.

I shook my head and regained my senses, forcing myself to focus. I did not want this to happen.

"No!" I said firmly and ripped his hand off of me and out of my pants. I practically shoved him away. I was panting, trying to calm down and get my cock to subside.

He smiled at me again, glancing pointedly at the bulge that had formed in my pants, "I think you like what happened, Helaku. Your body speaks for itself."

I stood there, trying to catch my breath.

Finally, Nigel stepped away from me, "I'm going to the bedroom," he said his eyes darting to the stairs. He looked at me meaningfully before walking away.

I looked after him, not believing that this was really happening. I felt a vibration in my pants and fished out my cell phone.

I saw Bryce on the caller ID.

"Baby," I said into the phone.

"Hela, where are you?" Bryce asked.

I heard the concern in his voice and it made my heart break.

"Bryce, I love you," I said instantly, my voice breaking, everything that had just happened finally getting to me. "I love you so much, you know that, right?"

This was just too much for me to handle.

"Hela, are you ok? Where are you?" he asked, detecting how off I sounded.

His beautiful voice comforted and soothed me. It made me almost want to cry. I so wanted to be with him.

"I'm coming home," I said with determination. Without another word, I shut the phone and walked out.

*************

As soon as I entered our apartment, I walked over to Bryce and hugged him tightly. I shoved my face into his damp hair, inhaling deeply.

"Hela, what happened?" Bryce asked his arms coming around me.

"I made a huge mistake. I wish I hadn't gone with him," I said still holding Bryce.

Bryce tensed and his arms tightened around me. "What did he do to you? Did he hurt you?"

I could hear the anger in his voice.

I shook my head, "Nothing, he didn't do anything directly to me, but he may cause some problems in the future."

Bryce pulled away from me and sat me down on the couch, "What do you mean?" he asked with concern.

I ran my fingers through my hair and sighed, not knowing where to begin.

"The whole thing was a sham, Bryce. There was nothing to discuss at all!"

Bryce frowned.

"He wanted to wine and dine me, but we just hit up some local Italian place, and then he was desperate to get me to go to his house," I continued.

"His house?" Bryce exclaimed.

"It's not what you think." I quickly added, "We went there and he tried to give me some wine. I refused. Then he started full blown hitting on me and telling me how he wanted me." I licked my lips as Bryce's frown deepened.

"I was set on leaving, but before I could get away, he said that if I didn't have sex with him, he wouldn't do business with McAdams Ink."

Bryce's eyes widened, "No!"

"Yeah!" I exclaimed, "I didn't know what to do at first. I was so confused," I said with a pleading expression. Bryce started to look hurt, "I was thinking about my Uncle and how great he is and how he gave me a job when I broke up with Crew. Then I felt horrible that I was going to be the reason this deal would fall through."

Bryce leaned closer to me and rubbed my shoulder comfortingly, "It's not your fault Hela. Your Uncle wouldn't have wanted you to do that."

I nodded, "I know. When I heard your voice, I knew there was no way I could do that to you, to us," I said looking deep into his eyes.

"I love you," I said.

Bryce smiled and rubbed his face into my neck, kissing it softly.

"I love you so much, Bryce," I murmured wrapping my arms around him.

We kissed slowly, enjoying the closeness and tenderness of our actions.

I touched his soft cheek, trying to memorize everything about him and how he felt when my skin met his. I pulled back, my fingers tangling in his damp blond hair. I wrapped my forearm around his neck.

"I know you do," Bryce said. I simply smiled as we both rested on the couch, side by side, unwinding from our long day.

It felt good to have Bryce beside me, feeling his weight against me as we sat in comfort together. I felt like everything would be ok as long as he was there. I felt safe.

I never wanted that feeling to go away.