Chapter Text
Jack had never been a big fan of gay bars – right from his very first experience. Though he appreciated that for some people they were like holy ground they had never really been his scene. Particularly living in New York; he could think of a hundred better places to be drinking on a Saturday night. But tonight he had very little say. A friend from college had just broken up with his boyfriend and somehow managed to convince a group of them to head to his favourite bar in Greenwich Village. Jack had prepared himself for the worst but thankfully the bar that had been chosen was actually quite nice.
“Are we going to spend the whole night here?” Jack asked, drinking his beer.
“What’s up?” his friend asked. “Worried you’re going to bump into one of your previous conquests?”
Matt was a good guy. The type of gay man that had known he was gay from a very young age and did not ever really need to ‘out’ himself to anyone verbally. Jack had met him during one of his very first classes and they instantly got along.
“Very funny,” Jack smiled back sarcastically. “Jen mentioned that she might come by so I was going to text her our location.”
“I’m happy here,” Kelly said. “It’s Saturday night in New York City and not only do I have a seat but I’ve not had my ass grabbed once.”
“I second that,” the other girl, Linsey, smiled.
“Let’s just remember that tonight is all about getting my ass grabbed,” Matt reminded them with a laugh. “And while Jack is on my reserve list, I am still optimistic that I can do better tonight.”
“Yeah right,” Jack laughed. “In your dreams.”
“Jack, if you could just take one for the team we could all just go home now,” Linsey winked.
“There’s not enough beer in Manhattan.”
“Ouch,” Matt replied, pretending to be hurt.
“If you want to meet someone tonight then sitting here with us is probably a little counterproductive. You need to mingle,” Jack said.
“Spoken like the beautiful gay man that you are,” Matt laughed, turning to the girls. “You see, ladies, Jack here is a ‘twink’.”
“What?” they both laughed as Jack rolled his eyes.
“Not this again,” he groaned.
“A twink,” Matt repeated, ignoring Jack. “A young, slender, baby-faced, gay man that only needs to look in the direction of the bar before an older, more experienced, gay man dives in and buys him a drink, hoping for a little something in return.”
The girls were both laughing.
“Enjoy it while you can, Jack. You’re not going to be twenty-one forever,” Matt winked.
“And you’re not a twink?” Kelly asked.
“He wishes,” Jack laughed, smiling in Matt’s direction.
“Jack is right. I would kill for his Zac Efron good looks.”
“No, you’re making this up,” Linsey shook her head, laughing.
“He’s not.” Jack sighed. “But it’s doesn’t mean anything because even if Matt had the balls to approach anyone tonight, it would be pointless doing it here. Half the people in here are straight.”
“And you can tell?” Kelly asked.
“He definitely can,” Matt said seriously. “Jack is my gaydar. If he likes the look of someone they are almost certainly straight.” He smiled, enjoying teasing Jack. “That’s right, isn’t it?”
“You’re a funny man, Matt.”
“The saddest part is that they usually still end up in bed with him.”
“That bit is definitely not true,” Jack informed the girls, shaking his head. “Matt is just trying to steer the conversation away from the fact he won’t approach anyone.”
“You make it sound so easy,” Matt groaned. “You pretty boys and your zero strike out rate.”
“You just have to go for it and forget the fact that you will probably be rejected.”
“So if we picked out a guy for you, Jack – you can show us how it’s done?” Kelly asked wickedly.
Matt slammed his hands down on the table in excitement. “Yes! Now this is turning into a fun night.”
“Oh no,” Jack raised his hands in front of him. “Tonight is about Matt.”
“Teach me your tricks, wise, gay sage,” Matt joked, already looking around the bar, ready to pick someone out.
Jack knew that there was no point protesting. This was completely Matt’s style. If talking to a random stranger for a minute or two cheered his friend up then so be it. However, sat with his back to the rest of the bar Jack suddenly began to worry who his friends were going to pick out for him.
“Please be kind,” he groaned.
“Don’t you worry,” Matt smirked, “I am going to choose the most attractive, unapproachable man I can find so I can revel in your being shot down for the first time.”
“Not the first time,” Jack corrected.
Suddenly the smile on Matt’s face grew. Jack watched as he pointed over Jack’s shoulder and the girls followed his gaze.
“Bingo,” Linsey smiled, looking excited as Kelly laughed.
“Okay, everyone,” Matt said getting his wallet out. “Let’s make this interesting. Everyone put $20 on the table and place your bets. Zero points is a total wipeout – complete and immediate rejection. One point is just polite small talk until Jack gives up. Five minutes maximum. I’m going for that one based on the look of our chosen target. Two points – Jack is invited to sit down. Three points – he buys Jack a drink. Four points – Jack gets his phone number. Five points – they leave together.”
The girls thought about it for a second, their eyes on the man Matt had selected.
“I’m going for two points,” Kelly said. “I don’t believe anyone would zero point Jack.” She looked at the man again. “Then again if anyone was going to it would be that guy.”
Jack went to turn around and look but the group’s protests stopped him in his tracks.
“I’m going for 3 points,” Linsey smiled, putting her hand on Jack’s arm. “Make me proud.”
“How about you, Jack?” Matt asked, raising an eyebrow. “How confident are you feeling?”
Jack took a deep breath. “I’m not going home with whoever it is,” he said firmly, “But I guess I should back myself.” He took $20 from his wallet and slammed it down on the table for dramatic effect. “I’m getting his number. Four points.”
The group cheered –ready for the show to begin.
“Okay, let me have it,” Jack said, wiping his palms on his jeans.
Matt pointed over Jack’s shoulder. “Fair haired man, built like a God, sat alone at the bar, clenched jaw, picking the label off his beer. From here on to be referred to as ‘Mr. Unapproachable’.”
Jack slowly turned around in his chair, trying not to be too obvious. The bar was quieter than he had thought and he instantly spotted the man that Matt was talking about. He looked a little closer, unable to ignore the man’s broad shoulders; his shirt that pulled tight across his back, sleeves rolled up to his elbows. A smile crept over Jack’s face as he realised he recognised the man the group were now all staring at. He just had no idea why he was in New York – or why he was in a gay bar.
“Here goes nothing,” he said, standing up and shaking out his arms to loosen his shoulders.
“Make me proud, Jack,” Matt laughed. “But more importantly, wipe out and make me $80.”
Jack did not say another word to the group, beginning to make his way to the man at the bar. He walked up next to him, trying to get a better look at his face, making sure it really was who he thought.
“You’re a long way from Capeside,” Jack said softly, not wanting to startle the other man who seemed deep in thought.
The man turned to him, surprised to hear someone and especially surprised to hear the name of his hometown. Jack had not remembered his eyes being so blue. They took him by surprise. The man looked at him for a moment, shaken from his thoughts, trying to place who the other man was. He smiled slightly and then seemed to catch himself, his face going back to being serious.
“Jack?” he said. “Pacey’s friend.”
Jack was relieved that he remembered. He nodded, letting him know he was right. “So if you’re here, does that mean that the criminals of Capeside are having a field day?”
The other man looked at him blankly, not acknowledging Jack’s joke. He looked around the bar as though he was looking for other familiar faces. Jack was beginning to think he was going to have to walk away and give Matt the win. He could hear Matt getting excited in the distance. After a couple of awkward moments Jack was about to apologise for interrupting and walk away when suddenly a small smile settled on the other man’s face.
“I’m just here for a couple of days. Hopefully I won’t be going back to ruins,” he joked, making Jack feel a little more at ease. “What are you doing in New York?”
“I live here now,” Jack replied.
“I didn’t realise,” he shook his head, wondering when that had happened. Pacey had only ever mentioned his friends being in Boston. Then again it was not something they really talked about.
“I’ve been here just over a year now,” Jack added, now wondering whether this was such a good idea; seeing apprehension in the other man’s eyes. “Are you here alone?”
The other man nodded, feeling slightly uncomfortable. He had not been expecting to see anyone he knew – in the bar or New York in general. He had a moment of panic when he thought of his family’s reaction if they found out where he was, but there was something about the man in front of him that settled his mind. He was far from the boy he had seen round Capeside.
“Yes,” he said, his hand falling onto the barstool between them – caught between holding it in place to stop Jack from sitting down and pushing it out in offering. While his brain tried to work out which was the better option, his body defied him and he felt his arm extend, pushing the stool towards Jack. “Would you like to sit down?”
From behind him Jack could hear Matt’s groans of protest as the girls both cheered, both knowing that they were a step closer to the money. Jack cringed slightly, hoping he was the only one to hear the commotion.
“Sure,” Jack smiled, taking a seat. “As long as I’m not interrupting anything.”
“Not at all.”
The smile Jack received seemed genuine and sure – making him relax slightly. “So do I need to call you Officer Witter?” he joked.
“We’re not in Capeside and I’m not on duty so I think Doug is safe enough.”
Doug was looking at him intently – trying to work out what was different about Jack. He still looked like the same person he had seen for the last time a couple of years back but his eyes were brighter and he seemed more sure of himself. Whether it was a newfound confidence or maybe just the alcohol, Doug was not sure, but it was working for him.
“New York seems to suit you,” Doug said before his mental filter could stop him.
Jack smiled slightly, wondering what was going on. He could not recall ever seeing Doug like this. If Jack did not know any better he would have assumed he was flirting. He recalled all the jokes Pacey used to make about his brother’s sexual orientation but had always assumed they were merely brotherly jibes. Now here he was in a New York City gay bar leaving Jack unsure of his previous assumption.
“I like it here,” Jack confirmed. “It’s probably not forever but it’s pretty good right now.”
“You took the words right out of my mouth,” Doug smiled – his eyes scanning over Jack’s body sat next to him.
Jack noticed and was taken by surprise when his body tingled with nervous excitement.
The bartender appeared in front of them, taking Doug’s empty bottle – “Another?” he asked.
“Sure,” Doug nodded, turning to Jack and realising he did not have a drink in his hand. “Make that two.”
“You don’t have to,” Jack said – mostly to be polite.
“It’s my pleasure,” Doug smiled back before his eyes narrowed slightly looking at Jack. “You are old enough now, right?” he teased.
Jack laughed. “Would you like to see my ID, Officer?”
Doug bit his lip slightly – trying to keep inside a response that may not be a good idea. “Well, you definitely look old enough,” he finally responded, mentally kicking himself because that was not much better.
Jack was still looking at Doug when the bottles were put down on the bar in front of them. He was beginning to have fun. He lowered his hand behind him, visible only to his group of friends in the corner, holding up three fingers, indicating that Kelly was now out of the race. He instantly heard a roar from the table – a mixture of excitement and disappointment.
***
“I can’t believe it,” Kelly said amazed. “I was sure he wasn’t going to get anywhere.”
“I always had faith,” Linsey smiled as they all watched what was going on in front of them.
“As soon as he gets that phone number you’re out of the race too,” Kelly reminded.
“It looks like he’ll be getting more than a phone number,” Matt laughed. “Every damn time.”
They carried on watching for a few minutes as the two men at the bar continued talking – all of them noticing that the man Jack was talking to had a firm smile plastered on his face.
Kelly gasped slightly as the man briefly put his hand on Jack’s arm. “Jack’s blushing,” she whispered to the others.
“I would kill to know what he just said,” Matt groaned.
The girls looked at each other as Linsey raised an eyebrow. “Matt, are you sure you wouldn’t like to be going home with Jack tonight?”
Matt rolled his eyes. “My fragile self-esteem would not be able to handle a night with man like Jack. Can you imagine waking up next to him? I bet he looks that good even when he’s just woken up,” he groaned.
“I wouldn’t say no,” Linsey grinned.
“Confirming my point that Jack is universally beautiful. Like something straight out of the old Hollywood studios.”
“Well, you’re more my type,” Kelly said.
“You’re very sweet to lie,” he smirked, making them all laugh – still enjoying the show playing out in front of them.
***
“So you’ve come to New York on your own?” Jack asked.
“Sometimes it’s nice to get away from Capeside and the other Witters for a while,” he nodded, sure that Jack would understand.
“And you didn’t have a friend to bring with you?”
“Seemingly not,” Doug replied simply. “It’s easier this way.”
Jack nodded, thinking that he understood but worried that maybe he was mistaken. Doug was not how he remembered him. He remembered him being so rigid and uptight. He had always felt a little intimidated by him. Tonight he seemed to have loosened up – being out of Capeside was clearly working for him.
“Surely you have something better to do than sit alone in a bar?”
“I’m not sitting alone though, am I?” Doug’s hand went back to Jack’s arm and the heat was unreal.
“Doug,” Jack said looking around. “You do know this is a gay bar, right?”
Doug smiled, taking great pleasure in the expression on Jack’s face. “I was aware.”
“Right,” Jack said slowly – Doug’s eyes locked with his so intensely. “Just making sure.”
“Anyway,” Doug said getting out his wallet and putting some money down on the bar. “I should probably get going.”
Jack nodded, about to get up and head back to his friends, knowing that his conversation with Doug would play on his mind for the rest of the night, when he suddenly remembered the bet.
“Before you go,” Jack said quietly. “Could I ask a favour?”
“Of course,” Doug replied, enjoying Jack’s question. “Would this have anything to do with the group over there that have been staring at us?”
Jack laughed, glancing over his shoulder to his friends who all looked away like guilty children. “You noticed them, huh?”
Doug shrugged, still smiling. “How can I help?”
“There is $80 over there with my name on it,” Jack explained, “If I return with a phone number.”
“Really?” Doug questioned. “I’m not sure if I should be offended that you’re only talking to me for a bet.”
“Honestly, don’t be. My friends only picked you because they think you’re out of my league.”
Doug laughed, shaking his head, again noticing the way Jack’s eyes shined when he smiled.
“I didn’t even know it was you until I was on my way over,” Jack confessed.
“Is that better or worse?”
“I was hoping better,” Jack shrugged, now unsure. “Anyway, it doesn’t even need to be your real number.”
“$80?” Doug asked.
“$80,” Jack repeated.
“I guess that would be quite useful to a student trying to get by in the big city?”
“Just look at me – I’m wasting away,” he joked, giving Doug puppy dog eyes.
“And it doesn’t even have to be a real number?”
“Nope,” Jack smiled. “They won’t even think to check.”
Doug looked at him for a few moments before putting out his hand. “Give me your phone.”
Jack quickly obliged, handing it over. In the background Jack heard another roar from his friends.
“They’re not exactly subtle,” Doug laughed.
“They’re drunk,” Jack reasoned, watching Doug punch some numbers into his phone and save it under his name.
“There you go,” Doug said, handing it back. “Enjoy your winnings.”
“I will,” Jack grinned, watching Doug stand up and slip on his jacket. “Nice seeing you, Doug.”
“You too, Jack.” He turned to walk away but something stopped him. Turning back to Jack, he glanced over once more to his group of friends. “You’re friends are wrong though.”
“About what?” Jack asked confused.
“About me being out of your league,” he said simply. “From where I’m standing you’re definitely in a league of your own.”
Jack blushed slightly, his eyes grazing the floor. When he looked back up Doug’s eyes were still on him and could tell he was enjoying his reaction.
“See you around, Jack.”
Jack raised his hand and waved at Doug – not quite able to find any words.
Doug laughed to himself as he walked away. “What a pleasant surprise.”
***
Jack walked back to the table, taking a bow as he got closer, holding up his phone. “Where’s my money?” he gloated as he sat down.
Matt pushed the money towards him before pulling one note back. “Drinks on you? How kind of you,” he gushed, getting up and heading to the bar.
“Sorry, ladies,” Jack shrugged, pushing the remaining notes into his wallet.
“He was pretty hot,” Linsey smiled.
“You’re not wrong,” Jack nodded, remembering the feel of Doug’s hand on his arm. The whole thing felt so surreal. He could not even recall the last time he had seen Doug and he definitely would have remembered if Pacey had told him that Doug had come out. It was clear from Doug’s reaction that it was still very much a secret.
“What’s his story?” Kelly asked.
“He’s from out of town,” Jack replied, not letting on that they knew each other already or anything more about Doug’s situation. “He’s just in the city for a couple of days.”
“And he gave you his number?” Kelly asked.
“He was probably just being polite,” Jack reasoned – not about to confess to the fact that he had told Doug all about the bet and his willingness to take a fake number.
“There was nothing ‘polite’ about the way he was looking at you,” Matt interjected, sitting back down with their drinks. “I decided we are in need of some shots,” he smiled wickedly, placing them in front of them all.
“What else did he say?” Linsey asked intrigued.
“That would be telling,” Jack winked, catching Matt’s eye as he downed one of the shots. “Jeez,” he coughed. “What is that?”
“Truth serum.” Matt winked right back, taking a shot himself. “I’ll get something out of you before the night is through.”
Jack sat back, looking at the line of shots in front of Matt, waiting for the perfect moment.
“A couple more drinks,” Matt continued, “and Jack will be spilling the beans on exactly what was said.” He lifted another shot glass and held it out. “Cheers.”
Jack waited for the glass to reach Matt’s lips and then another second for him to knock it back – but not long enough for him to swallow. “He’s a cop,” Jack smirked, watching as Matt choked.
Matt coughed, trying to catch his breath. “I should have gone over,” he groaned.
“Told you so.”
***
An hour and a few more drinks later, Jack could still not shake the look Doug have given him before leaving. While the others were checking out possible matches for Matt, Jack pulled out his cell phone and looked at the number Doug had given him – it had the correct number of digits to be real. He could not help but wonder.
He typed a text, unsure what to say – aware that it could simply bounce back or go through to someone completely different. He finally settled on one simple word – hitting send before he could change his mind.
- Doug?
He put his phone down on the table in front of him. The agony of waiting for a response was likely to be worse than the original curiosity. Thankfully he barely had to wait. A message flashed up on the screen almost instantly. Without the others noticing he quickly picked it up and opened the message.
- What took so long?
Jack could not contain his smile.
- I wasn’t sure if you gave me a real number.
- I only give a fake number if I don’t like someone. - Doug’s response came back quickly.
Jack did not know how to respond. He typed a couple of things and the deleted them. He smiled, typing out a new message, hoping the amount he had already had to drink would give him enough nerve to press send.
- How often do you give your number to random men in gay bars?
- You’re hardly random.
Jack laughed. Doug had a point while also nicely side stepping the question. Before Jack could respond his phone buzzed again.
- You were without doubt the best looking guy in that bar.
Jack struggled to think what to say. He was used to men flirting and commenting on his looks but these men were not usually Doug Witter. His phone buzzed again.
- Am I making you blush?
Jack laughed, shaking his head. “This is too surreal,” he muttered under his breath, about to put his phone down when it buzzed again.
- Like you did when I touched your arm earlier.
“Oh Lord,” Jack breathed, quickly typing something before Doug had a chance to continue.
- Are you having fun? - Jack sent.
- Not as much as I would like to be.
‘This is Pacey’s brother,’ Jack reminded himself. ‘Pacey’s very hot and apparently gay brother.’ Unable to resist, Jack sent another message.
- Where are you?
- Back at my hotel.
“Of course you are,” Jack laughed. He took a deep breath and continued to type.
- Where are you staying?
- I thought you’d never ask - Doug replied.
Jack rolled his eyes but his grin gave him away as his phone buzzed again.
- Archer. 38th Street. Between 5th and 6th
As Jack stood up to put his jacket on he felt his phone buzz once more.
- Room 408
Matt looked over at Jack – only just noticing that he had not been joining in. “Where are you off to?”
“The Archer,” he said simply but smiling mischievously, pulling his jacket on fully.
Matt tried to figure out what he meant but Kelly figured it out first.
“The hotel?”
Jack raised an eyebrow but said nothing as he picked up his last shot from the table and downed it.
“He’s meeting the cop!” Linsey shouted louder than she had planned to.
“No fucking way,” Matt laughed. “Every time.”
“I’m going to go turn my four points into five,” he grinned before turning and walking away, hearing his friends cheer and whistle the whole way to the door.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The hotel was a nicer than Jack had expected. He felt a little awkward just strolling in so late at night, having clearly been drinking. He hovered outside for a moment, breathing in the cool night air – regretting the final shot he had downed before leaving the bar.
Filling his lungs one final time he walked up to the entrance and smiled politely as the night doorman opened the door for him, no questions asked. He spotted the elevator at the rear of the lobby and stepped into it as soon as the doors opened, quickly pressing the button for the fourth floor before he had a chance to change his mind.
When the doors opened he looked around before turning to the right, following the arrows on the wall in front of him. Room 408 was only a few doors down. He wondered what it said about him that he had made his way over so quickly and with very little persuasion. He half expected it to be a joke – to knock and for no one to answer. He lifted his hand and took a deep breath before knocking lightly.
The door opened almost immediately as though the other man had been stood in wait. The light in the room was dim behind Doug, creating a soft glow around him.
“Huh,” Jack smiled. “This really is where you’re staying.”
Doug stepped aside expecting Jack to automatically walk in. “Are you coming in?”
Jack nodded but his feet did not move so Doug reached out and gently tugged his arm, closing the door behind him once he had finally entered.
“First my phone number and now my room number.” Doug said, moving further into the room. “Why are you so surprised by my numerical accuracy this evening?”
Jack laughed slightly, looking around the room. It was nice; expensive looking. “It’s not your accuracy that surprises me,” Jack corrected. “It’s your willingness to share it.”
“How else would you have found me?” Doug asked, handing Jack a drink.
Jack gave it a sniff. Realising it was whiskey.
“Want a mixer?” Doug asked.
Jack shook his head, no. “How did you know I would text?”
“Just a hunch,” Doug smiled, taking a sip of his drink, not once moving his eyes from Jack.
“I must admit that I was a bit surprised to see you sat at the bar tonight,” Jack confessed, having to look away from the intensity of Doug’s eyes.
“Why?” Doug smiled, knowing exactly why but enjoying seeing Jack squirm to find the right words.
Jack looked back at him again, this time holding his gaze – trying to suss him out.
“You can say it,” Doug said – the look on his face completely unreadable.
“Say what?” Jack asked, feeling as though it was a trap – deciding it was best to play dumb.
Doug’s smile widened as he stepped closer to Jack. “You want to say, because you didn’t know I was gay.”
“I’m going to the plead the fifth,” Jack replied, feeling more unsure by the second.
“I’m right though, aren’t I?”
Jack shrugged; unsure what Doug wanted him to say. “There’s no reason why I would know your business.”
“Am I making you nervous?”
“I assumed you were doing it on purpose,” Jack replied, keeping his eyes firmly on Doug’s.
Doug smiled again, taking the drink from Jack’s hand and putting it down next to the bed along with his own before returning to the younger man. He reached out and began to slide Jack’s jacket open and then down his arms, discarding it on the chair in the corner. “Is there anything I can do to help you relax?” Doug asked.
Jack felt like something was not quite right. Doug had taken full control from the moment he had sent his first text. Asserting himself as the hunter – Jack his prey. It was not as though he was not used to it – he had been with many men that were dominant and made this clearly known. He had never had an issue with it before but something tonight felt off. He did not believe that this was really Doug’s character. It felt more like a performance; as though Doug was still in officer mode. Jack was torn between pinning Doug down on the bed or grabbing his jacket – shrugging everything off as a lesson learnt.
Doug noticed Jack’s eyes dart to his jacket on the chair – a sudden sinking feeling in his stomach. “Jack…”
“I think I’ve made a mistake,” Jack said, his eyes narrowing. He took a sideways step and reached for his jacket – wondering if his friends would still be at the bar or if he should just head home.
“Wait,” Doug said softly, gently resting his hand on Jack’s arm. Jack looked at him surprised, feeling the same spark that he had felt in the bar – the same spark that had been missing since he arrived at the hotel. “I’m sorry.”
Jack straighten back up, leaving his jacket on the chair. He did not say anything but gave Doug a chance.
“Could we start over?” Doug asked, the mask falling.
“That depends,” Jack said. “Am I starting over with Officer Witter or Doug – because I have absolutely zero interest in the former?”
Doug looked back at Jack slightly stunned by his bluntness – but equally very appreciative. “And the latter?” he asked.
“I think I only met him for the first time tonight,” Jack answered. “But he’s the reason I’m stood here right now.”
“Okay,” Doug smiled, stepping back a little closer, his hand moving up his arm. “So you’re staying?”
“If you promise to drop the bullshit?”
Doug leaned in, his mouth finding Jack’s, kissing him like he had wanted to when he had left the bar. Once he had made it back to the hotel room, he had sat wondering how long it would take for Jack to realise that he had given him his real phone number – wondering if he would ever text or call. When he suddenly did, his body went into panic mode – adrenaline pumping – bringing out the side of him that he showed to the men he hooked up with on his weekends away from Capeside. Though Doug knew it was an act, it usually it went down well. Jack was the first man to ever call him out for it.
“How much have you had to drink tonight?” Doug asked.
“Enough to tell you to drop the bullshit,” Jack smiled slightly, his eyes grazing the floor. “But not so much that I don’t know what I’m doing or what this is.”
“And what is this?”
“A closeted gay man escaping small town life for a weekend to get the fix he needs in order to go home and continue to be the man everyone expects him to be for a little longer.”
“Wow,” Doug said, his hand now on Jack’s cheek. “That one may have cut deeper than the bullshit comment.”
“Did I hit the nail on the head?” Jack asked.
“With a sledgehammer,” he laughed.
“I get it,” Jack said softly. “You’re not going to get any judgement from me.”
Doug simply kissed Jack in response. It made him think of when he was a kid and given popping candy for the first time. His mouth had tingled – the sensation getting stronger until he felt as though there were fireworks going off inside of him.
“I have no interest in the man you think you’re supposed to be,” Jack said quietly between kisses.
“I think we’re on the same page,” Doug agreed.
“Good,” Jack nodded, his hand finding the back of Doug’s neck, drawing him closer until their mouths met again – this time Jack finally let down his guard, letting the alcohol coursing through his body fuel him.
Doug felt the difference. Like everything has been turned up – feeling this mouth being expertly manipulated as hands began to unbutton his shirt. He knew this was the final moment he could possibly come to his senses; knowing that in a few moments his mind would be completely lost and he would be unable to stop what was about to happen. He almost laughed to himself thinking about it; if he had not stopped it before this point, he was never going to. Something about Jack made him forget about the fact that he was Pacey’s friend, or at least convince him to willfully ignore it.
Feeling his shirt being edged down his arms, he quickly shrugged it off, his hands eagerly clutching at Jack’s t-shirt, tugging it up his body, almost resentful that he had to move his mouth from the other man’s in order to remove the item – his lips instantly finding Jack’s again as he dropped Jack’s t-shirt to the floor on top of his own discarded clothing. His arms looped around Jack’s body, hands moving to his shoulder blades, pulling him closer – sparks of electricity between them as their bodies pressed together.
He moved Jack back a few paces until his back was against the wall, quickly moving with him and reclosing the gap. He allowed his mouth to travel to Jack’s neck, noticing how the younger man tilted his head just enough to grant him the space needed – finally having access to the patch of skin below Jack’s ear that he had had his eye on while sat talking to him in the bar. He had wanted nothing more than to lean forward and run his tongue over it, the thought having sent a shiver down his spine. Now able to do so, he felt intoxicated by the taste of the other man. His manly scent mixed with alcohol and the promise of what was on offer driving him crazy. He moaned slightly as his lips once again found Jack’s, parting enough to encourage Jack to do the same before introducing his tongue – wanting to taste him further.
Jack could not help but smile against Doug’s mouth, giving into Doug’s need to lead and control. It was not the same as before; he no longer felt as though Doug was putting on an act, but he could tell that Doug was eager – wondering how long it had been since Doug had last kissed or touched a man like this. How long it had been since Doug had given into the desire that was spilling out of him. Jack knew he would probably never know the answer to that. He was certainly not going to ask. Doug had not invited him to his hotel room for a heart-to-heart and that was definitely not the reason he had come. It was a night that was out of the ordinary for both of them for different reasons and Jack decided that he would try and make it as memorable as possible for the other man – giving him something to think about during the lonely and dull Capeside evenings.
Jack enjoyed the feel of Doug’s hands against him, exploring him – the right balance of firm and unyielding – not once halting in their exploration, expertly manipulating Jack, moving him exactly how he wanted him. His mouth, still leading the onslaught, left Jack feeling lightheaded, moaning as Doug pressed up against him more firmly. It was only when Doug moved his hands to the button of Jack’s jeans that he remembered he was still half dress – so lost in the pleasure of it all.
Having a change of thought, Doug maneuvered Jack’s body away from the wall and over to the bed, pushing him back gently; watching as Jack slumped down with a surprising amount of grace for someone who had had as much to drink as he suspected Jack had. Leaning forward he finished unfastening Jack’s jeans and immediately began to tug them down Jack’s body, first pulling off Jack’s shoes and tossing them to the side before removing his own pants. Pausing for a moment he looked down at the younger man, staring back at him with dark eyes, a smile growing on his face.
Jack edged himself further back onto the bed; eyes still fixed on Doug’s as he removed his underwear, dropping it to the floor. “What are you waiting for?”
Doug took in a deep breath, scanning the full form of the man laid out in offering before him. Shaking the last bit of doubt from his mind he quickly took Jack’s lead, removing his final item of clothing and joining Jack on the bed. He wrapped his hand around the back of Jack’s neck, pulling him close, holding him firmly as his tongue gained access, kissing him roughly. He felt Jack’s leg wrap over the top of his own, pushing up against him hard – letting Doug know that he was on board with whatever he desired.
Jack pulled his mouth away from Doug’s knowing that they were both after something more than a heavy make out session. Smiling seductively, he untangled their legs, moving down Doug’s body, using his hands to reposition Doug from his side onto his back – glancing up one last time before taking the head of Doug’s length into his mouth. He heard Doug’s moan echo around the room, only to be overshadowed by the next one that escaped his mouth as Jack introduced his tongue. Jack smiled, wondering if Doug was always this easy to please or if his pent up sexual frustration was playing into his hands. He was waiting for Doug to make the next move, to make it clear exactly what he wanted, but until that happened he was more than happy to continue with his current endeavor – enjoying the noises coming from the other man who seemed to have completely dropped his Capeside Crusader mask. He dipped his head a couple more times, aware of Doug’s fingers clenching the sheets beneath him, breathing heavily.
“Stop,” Doug gasped as though that was the single most difficult word he had ever spoken, his head pushed back, trying to catch his breath. “Stop,” he said again, even though Jack already had, looking back at him, patiently awaiting his next instruction. “I want to fuck you.”
Jack smiled, moving back up the bed. “I assume you’ve come prepared?”
Doug nodded, a smile creeping over his face – appreciating that even while drunk, Jack was mindful of such things. “I have.”
“Good,” Jack nodded. “Okay then. Do it.”
Doug looked back at him, feeling incredibly turned on by his confidence, wondering if he would be so sure of himself once the alcohol wore off. He leaned back over, kissing Jack once again, pulling their bodies back together. Adopting the position that Jack had before, he wrapped his leg over the top of Jack’s pushing up against him as he allowed his hands to wander his body – his fingertips playing over the soft, firm flesh. He hand lingered on Jack’s ass, holding it firmly, keeping Jack in place as he pushed up against him a couple more times.
Jack pulled back slightly, unable to resist pushing back against Doug one more time. “So, are you going to do it or what?” he asked, a grin plastered across his face. “You’re not going to get more of a green light than this.”
Laughing slightly, trying to hide a slight blush, Doug pulled away, moving to the edge of the bed, grabbing the bag he had left there, removing the items he needed.
Jack’s eyes fell on the box of condoms on the bed. “You really were planning a good weekend,” he joked.
“I like to be prepared,” Doug shrugged, moving back onto the bed.
“How very boy scout of you,” Jack replied, raising his eyebrows, hoping he could help make a reasonable dent on Doug’s supply.
“I don’t know about you but I don’t remember learning this in the boy scouts,” Doug replied, laying his hand on Jack’s chest, pushing him back down flat against the bed.
“I wouldn’t know,” Jack smiled, his words almost lost in the eagerness of Doug’s mouth. He felt Doug move down his body, mouth only pulling away at the absolute last moment before he settled himself between Jack’s legs. Jack took a deep breath, squeezing his eyes closed as the ceiling above him seemed to start spinning. He was taking a second deep breath the moment Doug’s hand moved over his ass, fingers poised against his ring of muscle, pushing firmly against him, slowly slipping inside.
He heard his moan echo around the room, taking a moment to realise that it had come from him. He pushed his head back, pulling in another deep breath, trying to remain as relaxed a possible as he felt Doug introduce a second finger, feeling Doug’s hand on his hip, pushing him back against the bed as he pushed upwards. His body squirmed against the pressure of Doug’s fingers, only now questioning how many times Doug had done this before – hoping he knew what he was doing; his mind flashing back to a couple of not so enjoyable experiences he had tried to forget. He fought to keep his body relaxed, knowing that tensing up was only going to make things harder. He felt Doug’s eyes on him; the hand that had been firmly on his hip now stroking over his thigh, fingers pausing; waiting for the moment of tension to pass before they began to move again. Just as Jack was about to give in to his panic, Doug’s fingers made contact with the point of sensitivity deep inside of him, causing him to moan loudly, his body becoming more fluid as Doug repeated the action, this time causing him to cry out with pleasure.
Doug released a noise of satisfaction, having worried for a moment that Jack was not going to relax; unsure why he could feel his body tense and tighten around him – worried that maybe he was doing something Jack did not like. His fingers had found what he was searching for just in time, now feeling Jack’s body relax, his face once again showing only signs of pleasure. He continued to move and manipulate, preparing Jack for exactly what he wanted to do to him – the image of thrusting into the other man over and over already filling his head, causing him to become painfully hard. Hand back on Jack’s hip, he slowly removed his fingers, unable to fight the urge any longer.
He moved his body to be sat on the end of the bed, grabbing for the box of condoms he had previously discarded on the mattress. His fingers shaking ever so slightly, he quickly removed one from the box, glancing back over his shoulder as he tore open the packet, Jack’s eyes locked on him. Taking a deep breath, he slid the condom down his length, eyes moving away from Jack’s, trying to keep himself in check. He stood up, turning back towards Jack who was eagerly awaiting instructions.
“How do you want me?” Jack asked, ready to adopt whatever position Doug desired.
“Come here,” Doug said, voice low – watching as Jack rose to his knees and moved towards him, eyes locked with his as he made it to the edge.
Reaching out, Doug’s hands looped around Jack, hands resting on his ass, kissing him; tongue moving over him roughly, ready for so much more. He momentarily moved his mouth from Jack’s long enough to retrieve the bottle of lube, returning his mouth to Jack’s as he opened the cap, squeezing some into his hand and beginning to coat himself – unable to resist using his free hand to simultaneously stroke Jack’s arousal, feeling Jack’s moan echo through him.
“Turn around,” Doug said, pulling away, his hands moving to Jack’s hips as he assisted the movement. Still knelt on the bed, Jack’s back was now pressed against Doug’s chest – Doug’s prepared length eagerly awaiting entry. Doug’s hand stroked up Jack’s side, moving to the space between his shoulder blades, applying enough pressure to let Jack know what he wanted. Leaning forward, Jack rested his hands against the mattress, arms braced as he felt Doug’s hands take firm hold of his hips. Doug positioned himself, pressing firmly against Jack.
“You good?” he asked, wanting to check that Jack was still sure before his mind was unable to think of anything other than what he was about to do.
“It’s still a yes, Doug. Just do it,” Jack replied, the anticipation within him rising.
Nodding to himself and taking a deep breath, he began to push forward, feeling the first hit of heat from Jack’s body, fighting to keep composure as Jack tightened around him. He paused for a moment as we waited for Jack to relax a little more, rocking gently before continuing to push forward. He watched as Jack’s head dipped and a faint moan escaped him through gritted teeth. Doug kept moving until there was nowhere else to go, his body pressed flat against Jack’s ass. Stilling for a moment, giving them both a chance to adjust, he had a sudden and uncontrollable desire to run his hand up the middle of Jack’s back, fingers reaching the dark hair as his thumb stroked back and forth over the back of his neck. The shudder that flowed through Jack’s body made its way all the way to Doug’s, spurring him on, initiating his movements – slow to begin with; steadily growing faster and more confident.
Jack lowered his shoulders slightly more, feeling Doug draw his hand back to his hip; once again holding him firmly. He pushed back against each of Doug’s thrusts, encouraging him – silently letting him know that he could take more. That he wanted more. Understanding what Jack’s body was telling him, Doug began to thrust harder and fasters, unable to contain the sounds of pleasure growing within him anymore. His fingers gripped Jack’s body a little tighter – loving the thought of leaving ten small indentations on the younger man; marking him in some way. It drove him wild to think that Jack would have a reminder of their chance encounter for a couple of days, even after he had returned to Capeside to resume normal life. The cop in him warned against leaving any evidence of his indiscretions but the man in him knew that the very thought would give him something to fantasize about when he returned to his regular life. A life that felt more like a cage.
Doug began to move faster, his thrusts becoming firmer, encouraged by the sound of Jack’s moans mixed with his own. He let go of Jack’s hip, moving his hand around him, fingers gliding over Jack’s hardened length before gripping it, moving up and down in sync with his movements, smiling to himself as Jack let out a long and needy moan – impressed with himself for causing such a sound. He watched as Jack’s head pushed backwards; taking in the sight of his young body as his shoulder blades shifted and his back arched; his muscles tightening before relaxing again. Doug took a deep breath as he tried to compose himself, not wanting this to be over just yet.
Jack could feel each thrust growing in intensity – Doug’s hand moving over his arousal, bringing him closer to the edge with each stroke. He could feel his arms begin to shake; not sure he could hold his weight much longer – each one of Doug’s thrusts ricocheting through him and making him a little more unstable. His body was yearning for release; barely holding on as Doug continued. He could hear that Doug was getting close – the sound of his breathing suddenly changing, seemingly fighting the release that Jack was desperate for. He pushed back a little harder in encouragement and was rewarded with a moan.
Doug shifted; Jack’s movements causing him to be even more unsteady on his shaky legs – the slight position change causing an unexpected moan from the younger man. His hand still moving over Jack’s length, he thrust forward with a little more precision, pleased to once again receive a moan of pleasure – the sound bouncing around the room, met quickly by another. With a little more focus, feeling Jack’s body began to tighten around him, Doug thrust again, this time receiving more of a yelp than a moan – the pleasure palpable. He could feel his hand become more and more slick with each stroke, his thumb swiping the tip of Jack’s erection as one final thrust caused Jack to cry out – the sound deep and thick with satisfaction as he felt the heat of Jack’s orgasm against his hand.
The elation he felt through his whole body as Jack cried out caught him by surprise and before he had a moment to think, he was also coming too. His hand quickly moved back to Jack’s side, holding him firmly as he thrust deep into him, pressing firmly against Jack’s body as the wave rushed through him – eyes fixed on Jack’s muscular back, watching as the younger man tried to control his breathing.
Once he knew his legs were not about to give out beneath him, he slowly pulled out of Jack, ensuring the condom did not spill – moving quickly to the bathroom to dispose of it.
Jack collapsed down onto the bed, his arms and shoulders aching. He could hear the water running in the bathroom as Doug washed his hands, noticing how he seemed to hesitate slightly before returning to the room. Jack arched backwards, stretching out his back as he watched Doug locate his underwear from the pile of discarded clothes on the floor, slipping them back on before sitting on the edge of the bed.
Doug took a deep breath, suddenly feeling self-conscious. He was not used to reaching this point and being faced with eyes that looked back at him knowing the truth about his life. Normally the other man did not care to ask, and on the odd occasion that someone did ask questions he was able to lie or only tell them the bits about his life that he did not mind them knowing – which was never much. He was never in a position where the other man knew where he lived, or what he did for a living. He had never had sex with a man that had his brother’s number stored in his phone and could out him in one absent-minded, drunken text. He suddenly realised that he may have made a huge mistake – swept away by something he had seen in the other man’s eyes, blinded by physical attraction; intrigued to see what would happen if he silenced his mind and let his body take full control.
“I meant what I said,” Jack said, feeling the tension. “I’m not going to tell anyone. It’s none of my business how you chose to live your life.”
Doug nodded slightly, wondering if Jack realised that nothing about how he lived was a choice. It was necessity. A prison that he had no idea how to break free from. “Thank you,” was all he could bring himself to say.
Doug felt the bed shift behind him as Jack stood up, looking around for his clothes, spotting his underwear and beginning to redress.
“Give me a couple of minutes and I’ll be out of here,” Jack said, seemingly unbothered. “Like nothing ever happened.”
Doug watched as Jack riffled through clothing trying to find his own. “You don’t have to dash off,” he said.
“It’s okay, I get it – this isn’t my first awkward escape,” Jack laughed. “I’d rather be in a cab and half way home before you start regretting this.”
“I don’t regret it,” Doug said quickly, standing up. “Far from it.”
Jack stopped what he was doing, looking back at the other man, noticing the slight smile on his face. “Right,” he said, his voice sounding more questioning that he had meant.
“I just figured,” Doug shrugged, stepping closer to Jack, his fingertips grazing over Jack’s skin. “If you have nowhere else to be right now…”
Jack smiled slightly, his eyes grazing the floor, knowing exactly what Doug meant. “You mean you still have use for me.”
“I wouldn’t have put it quite like that,” Doug said. “I’m not sure if it’s the alcohol or your time in New York, but you certainly have a way with words tonight.”
“Maybe I’ve always had ‘a way with words’,” Jack replied. “You really don’t know me well enough to know.”
“True,” Doug nodded, stepping a little closer to Jack, his hand stroking over his hip and then to his back. “So you’ll stay a little longer?”
Jack looked back at Doug, trying to decide if having sex with the man for a second time would in any way make the decision he had made earlier that evening any worse in the cold light of day. His eyes fell on the box of condoms left on the bed. “I guess you have come optimistically prepared,” he teased. “And like you say – I have nowhere better to be.”
Doug smiled, leaning in and kissing Jack promisingly. “Let me get you another drink.”
“Let’s skip the drink,” Jack replied, shaking his head, reaching out and finding Doug’s arm, pulling him back towards him. “You can have a drink whenever you want. You only have me for one night.”
Doug kissed him again, allowing his hands to move over Jack’s shoulders and down his chest. “You make a very good point.”
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
When Jack woke up the room was still dark. He groaned slightly, the pounding of his head starting even before he had opened his eyes. It took him a moment or two to figure out where he was. Sitting up slightly and turning toward the noise of soft breathing next to him – a rush of memories filled his mind. He grimaced feeling the ache in his body as he slowly lifted himself to be more upright, moving towards the edge of the bed, careful not to wake up the other man.
Trying to ignore the pain in his head he managed to locate his clothes, thankfully mostly still in a pile from his earlier search. He bent down trying to find his underwear, feeling around in the dark, growing more frustrated with each second that passed without finding them. Hearing a noise coming from the bed, he froze – holding his breath, not wanting to wake Doug. Deciding it would be better if he left quickly and quietly.
Giving up on the idea of finding his underwear he quickly pulled on the rest of his clothes – trying to push aside the cliché of returning home without them. He grabbed his jacket from the chair, quickly pulling it on, making sure everything was still in the pockets before grabbing his shoes, carrying them to the door. He paused for a moment before opening it – trying to be as quiet as possible.
The bright light of the hallway made him squint; the pounding in his head intensifying as he stepped into the light and gently pulled the door closed behind him. Quickly making his way back to the elevator, he pressed the call button, dropping his shoes to the ground, sliding his feet in the best he could without bending down. He glanced over his shoulder to the room he had just exited and could not help but laugh to himself.
“It’s lucky I’m not going to tell anymore,” he mumbled as the elevator doors opened in front of him. “No one would believe me anyway.”
To be continued…