Adult-FanFiction.org : Celebrity

Last Swim	By : jai Category: Individual Celebrities > Athlete/Sports Misc Views: 8134 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. I do not know the people written about in this fanfiction. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
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Signals

August 27, 2005 Ann Arbor, MI

Michael sat, a warm blanket and Ian wrapped around him. He still felt a little shocky but the tremors had stopped, helped by Ian’s presence and a cup of hot cocoa.

“You okay, love?”

Michael nodded. “Yeah. I’m okay. It was just so unexpected.”

“I’m glad you had your eyes open. What if you’d just opened it?”

Michael shuddered. “I’m trying not to think about that.”

“Sorry, love.” Ian tightened his arms and kissed Michael’s neck in apology.

Michael stared at the closed blinds, wondering what was happening outside. It had been forty-five minutes since he’d hurried into the house and the wait was agonizing.

It was another ten minutes until the phone rang causing both of them to jump. Ian leaned over, picked up the cordless and handed it to Michael.

Taking a deep breath, Michael thumbed the button. “Hello?”

“Mr. Phelps?”

“Yes, this is he.”

“Sir, I’m Special Agent Morris with the FBI. Is everything okay in the house?”

“Yes, we’re fine. Is everyone okay out there?”

“Yes, sir. We’re going to be knocking on your side door in two minutes. Will you disengage the alarm system and let us in.”

“Is Roger, Sgt. Wilkins with you?”

“Yes sir.”

“Please have him at the door. I’m a little nervous tonight.”

“I understand, sir. Sgt. Wilkins will be the first person you see. We’ll be there in one minute.”

The agent hung up and Michael stood up, Ian’s hand on his elbow to steady him.

“We need to meet them at the door.”

“Okay.”

Michael walked into the kitchen followed closely by Ian and they both stopped when there was a knock on the door. Michael reached out to open it, when Ian stayed his hand and pointed to the alarm keypad.

“Oh, thanks.” Michael disengaged the alarm and then unlocked the door, peeking through the gap to see a grim looking Sgt. Wilkins, two other men standing behind him.

“Hi, Roger. Thank goodness you’re alright. Come in.”

Michael and Ian backed into the kitchen, allowing the crowd to enter, both feeling a little at a loss before Ian quickly shook himself.

“Gentlemen, would any of you like some coffee or anything else to drink?”

Michael started. “Oh, thanks Ian. Um do you guys want to sit in here or the living room?”

The tallest man in the room looked around and nodded. “Right here is fine, Mr. Phelps. I’m Special Agent Frank Morris. We spoke on the phone.” He smiled briefly, flashing his teeth against dark skin before offering Michael his hand, looking down from his almost seven foot height.

“Wow. And I thought we were tall.” Michael’s almost awestruck voice broke the tension a little as everyone laughed and took seats around the large kitchen table. Michael and Ian provided the beverages and then finally sat down.

“I’m sorry; this is Ian, Ian Thorpe, my partner.” Michael’s words caused a round of introductions and handshakes. The other man with Roger and Agent Morris was another FBI agent, Mitch Gaines.

“Michael, sit down.” Ian spoke softly causing Michael to suddenly take a sit and scoot it close to Ian. Ian placed a hand on Michael’s thigh, under the table, just to calm him a little. Michael immediately placed his hand over Ian’s and twined their fingers.

“Okay. So was it a bomb?”

“No, Mr. Phelps. It was someone who went to a lot of trouble to make it look like a bomb but there were no explosives, no detonator,” Agent Morris said.

Michael slumped down in relief. “Oh. So I didn’t put anyone in danger?”

Roger leaned forward. “Michael, did you put that in there?”

“What? No. Why would I do that?”

“Then you dt dot do anything wrong. Whoever is responsible for that thing is the only one to blame.”

“Okay. So what now?”

“Well, Mr. Phelps we’d like you to tell us what you were doing today. Were you around the house? Did you see anything?” Agent Morris took a pad of paper out, obviously in command of the situation and the interview.

“We left around six am for practice at the pool then we went to breakfast around eight thirty. We met friends in front of their apartment on Andrews and drove up to Holly for the Renaissance Festival. We stayed until six or so and drove three of the girls back to their apartment. We made it home around eight thirty; we didn’t make any stops on either trip.

“I parked the car in the garage and while Ian went to check the answering machine, I went down to the mailbox. I was about ten feet away and I thought I saw a string hanging from the door. I got closer and saw that the string was actually a wire or what I thought was a wire. I backed away from it and called Roger once I was at the garage.”

Michael stopped talking and took a breath only to notice the way everyone was looking at him. “What?”

“Have you been interrogated before, Mr. Phelps?” Agent Morris as he leaned forward.

“Yeah, by my dad, he was a state trooper for almost thirty years. Oh. The mailbox flag was bent. It wasn’t bent this morning when I put the mail out.”

“Well, you make a really good witness Mr. Phelps. Had you noticed anything odd going on lately? Any strangers hanging around? Cars you don’t recognize on the street?

“No, not really. We don’t really see the road from the living room or our bedroom. We usually take a walk around the pond most nights but I don’t recall seeing anything. Do you Ian?”

Ian thought for a moment. “I haven’t really lived here long enough to know if someone doesn’t belong here.”

“When did you move in, Mr. Thorpe?”

“Nineteen days ago. But I visited for a weekend in June and for eight or nine days back around New Years.”

“And you’re from Australia?”

“Yes.”

“And you and Mr. Phelps have been involved for how long?”

“Almost a year.”

“It’ll be a year on Monday.” Michael interjected.

“How long have you known each other?”

Michael and Ian looked at each other. “Well, I guess we’ve know each other for five years. Or rather we met five years ago. We’ve seen each other at meets over the years.” Ian answered.

“You’re both swimmers?”

“Yes sir.”

“Have there been any unusual threats made since you made your relationship known?”

“We haven’t seen any but you’ll have to talk to our managers. We can give you their names. Agent Morris, was this incident directed at us because we’re gay?”

“At this time and based on the evidence, we’d have to say yes but we haven’t really gotten into the investigation. From what we can tell, the item was placed in the mailbox between three and four thirty. Your neighbor,” Agent Morris looked down at his notebook, “Mr. Brenner noticed a late model car loitering on the street down near the stop sign around three forty five.”

“Your mail carrier didn’t notice anything unusual; she just picked up and delivered. So far, no one else in the neighborhood has reported anything unusual.”

“It could be anyone, that’s what you’re saying.” Ian asked.

“Yes sir, unfortunately we may never know but we will continue to investigate.”

Michael leaned forward and rested his head on the table.

“Michael!”

“Mr. Phelps? Are you okay?” Agent Morris rose from his chair in concern as did all the other officials.

“Yes. I’m okay. I’m such an idiot.”

“Michael this wasn’t your fault.”

“No. I’m an idiot. I had security cameras installed back in May. One is mounted on the garage and aimed right down the driveway.”

“Mr. Phelps, where is your video equipment?”

“Come on. It’s in the basement.” Michael rose and led the way to the door, leading everyone down the stairs into the empty basement and through a door into a utility room. Two spilt screen monitors were sitting on a shelf over a bank of recording equipment and a computer.

“The tape loops every twelve hours and I replace them every two weeks.” Michael hit a couple of buttons and a tape popped out of one of the machines. “These are fresh as of three days ago and I have backups from when the system was installed on hard disk and burnable onto a DVD.”

Ian, who’d been hanging back a little, looked over the equipment. “Ashley really scared you, didn’t she?”

Michael looked up from labeling the tape. “Yeah, I still can’t believe she did that.”

“Ashley? Who is Ashley?” Agent Morris was immediately interested.

“She’s a girl who lives in the neighborhood. I was outside with a contractor one day and when we came back in, she was sitting in the kitchen.”

“She just walked in your house?”

“Yeah, since then I lock the doors even if I’m just going outside to work on the car.”

“Did you report this to the police?”

“Frank, the kid is twelve. One of my daughter’s friends, actually. Michael called me and I came over and escorted her home. I helped him arrange a meeting at my house with all the parents around here and he laid down the law. Michael is really popular with all the kids. My son, Charlie thinks he’s the bomb.”

“Laid down the law?” Agent Gaines questioned.

“Basically I told them that I liked kids but under the circumstances I didn’t want any of them coming over to my house or even playing in the yard over here with me without a parent present.”

“You were protecting yourself against any accusations?”

“That and protecting the kids.” Michael stopped loo looked down for a moment. “Between mom the teacher and dad the cop; I heard stuff about what kids go through in those situations.” Michael shook off the memories. “I never wanted there to even be a question. No kid needs to go through that.”

Ian slid his arm around Michael’s waist, pulling Michael up against him in comfort.

The three other men in the basement were silent for a moment allowing Michael and Ian some privacy.

“Thanks, babe.” Michael placed a small kiss on Ian’s cheek before stepping away a little, sliding his hand into Ian’s while holding the tape out with his other hand.

“Agent Morris, I’d rather not play this tape here. If it’s someone I know I’d rather not see that right now. It’s been a rough enough night.”

“Mr. Phelps, I’ll be happy to take custody of the tape. Would you mind giving me all current the camera feeds? Just in case the person or persons responsible came up to the house?”

“Of course, sir. Give me a minute.” Michael turned back to the machinery.

While Michael was busy, Ian stepped over beside Agent Morris and said softly while keeping an eye on Michael, “Sir, you might want to check immigration records and with the authorities in Sydney. I had an incident a couple of years ago with stalker and went to court for a protection order which I’ve had renewed but it may not apply here.”

“Does your manager have all the details?” Agent Morris spoke just as softly.

“Yes.

“I’ll be sure to take a look at the case.”

Michael turned around and held out the other six tapes. “Here they are.”

Agent Morris and Agent Gaines took the tapes and after Michael put fresh cartridges in the machines, they all trooped back up the stairs.

“Mr. Phelps, Mr. Thorpe; would you feel more comfortable if we left an agent here tonight?”

Ian and Michael exchanged a look. “Do you really think that’s necessary?” Ian asked.

“As Mr. Phelps said, you’ve had a rough night. You have a good security system; you’re both sensible and careful. We’re going to have a car outside anyway. That should be enough until we get a chance to look at the tapes. But it’s up to you.”

“I think we should, Ian. What if it’s that woman?” Ian looked at Michael in shock. Michael just shook his head. “What? I was standing in the same room with you. I’m tall not deaf.”

Roger and the agents laughed while Michael smiled and put his arms around Ian. “I appreciate that you wanted to protect me but you told me all about her, remember? And about the fake hair seller. And the girl who offered to have your baby. And-”

“All right. I get the point. Agent Morris thank you for the offer, we’d be happy to accept it.”

“Very good. We need to make the arrangements and take care of the tapes. Roger, would you mind hanging out until we get back with the detail?”

“No problem, Frank.”

The agents left and Roger gave them a few minutes alone while he called Joanne.

“Are you okay, Ian?” They were standing in each other arms, leaning into each other.

“Yes. I’m fine, love. Are you okay?”

“Yeah. I feel better. Even if the tape doesn’t show anything, at least we did the right thing and no one was hurt.”

Roger walked back in the room. “Guys, you might want to turn on the late news. Joanne said there were reporters from Channel Seven outside.”

“Oh crap.” Michael grabbed Ian’s hand and they both went over to the couch. Ian picked up the remote and flipped the TV on, clicking the button until he found the right channel. A reporter was standing down at the bottom of the street next to a satellite van with a police car blocking access to the street behind him.

“Local police and the FBI were called to the house of Olympic medalist Michael Phelps in Ann Arbor Township earlier this evening. Although the authorities are withholding details, eyewitnesses are reporting that the AAPD bomb squad along with Federal experts were on the scene suggesting that some kind of explosives were involved. From witness statements and the presence of the FBI, the situation would appear to involve Mr. Phelps’ mailbox as that would be Federal property.

“There have been no injuries reported and the bomb squad along with the Ann Arbor Fire Department departed almost an hour ago although Federal agents and local police remain on the scene. Back to you, Bob.”

The scene switched back to the studio and the regular anchor. “Ryan, have you been able to find out who discovered the situation and who called in the authorities?”

The camera switched back to the field reporter. “No, Bob. The police and agents are playing this one very close to their vests and are not mg ang any comments. As you can see, we’ve not been allowed on the street so we can’t see much and details have been sketchy.”

“Thank you, Ryan.” The anchor was back on the screen. “That was Ryan Dolan reporting. As many people know, Michael Phelps won eight medals, six of them gold, last summer swimming at the Olympics in Athens at the age of nineteen.”

A clip of Michael being awarded a medal rolled followed by several other scenes which played while the anchor continued in a voice over. “Phelps is a student at the University of Michigan; he recently won five medals at the 2005 World Championship and broke three of his own world records. Earlier this week, he announced on his website that he was living in Ann Arbor with his partner, Ian Thorpe, who swims for Australia.”

The clips changed to show scenes with Ian. “Thorpe, also known as the Thorpedo, has won nine medals in the last two Olympics and is also training at the University.”

Another switch back to the studio to show the two anchors and a sports reporter.

“Alan, has there been much reaction in the sports world regarding the announcement Phelps made this week?”

“Well Bob, he didn’t really announce it. Both Phelps and Thorpe chose to add it to their websites with any fanfare and it was picked up by the media. So far, they haven’t given any interviews and have been keeping a low profile. Many of the major news outlets have mentioned the story but no one has had much to say.”

“Thanks Alan. We’ll be keeping on top of the story. Next, a serious accident on Clinton Township-”

Michael muted the television and tossed the remote onto the table. “I better call my-” The phone rang before he could finish.

Roger reached the phone first. “Let me answer. Just to be safe, okay?”

Michael nodded and Roger hit the answer button. “Hello? Hold on.” He held the phone out to Michael, with his hand over the receiver. “It’s Bob Bowman.”

“Thanks.” Michael took the handset. “Bob? No, we’re fine. I was just going to call you. No, it wasn’t a bomb. I don’t know they’re still investigating. No! Please don’t come over, I don’t know if it’s safe here. Yes, the FBI has already offered to put an agent in the house over night. Yes. Yes. Okay, please. I need to call mom and dad. I’ll call you tomorrow. Bye Bob.”

Michael hung up and immediately dialed. “Ian, call your parents before a reporter does.”

Michael was talking to his father and Ian speaking to his mother again when the Agent Morris returned with four agents in tow.

“Mum, I need to go. I’ll email in the morning or if anything happens and call you tomorrow afternoon. Love you and love to dad.” Ian hung up his cell phone and looked at Michael who was standing in the corner.

“Dad. Dad. Come on. I’m okay. It’s okay. No, you don’t need to come here. No. Please, Dad.” Michael pleaded frantically.

Agent Morris walked over and held his hand out. “Michael, let me speak to your father.” Michael practically threw the phone at the man and ran into the powder room; Ian stood up to follow but hesitated.

“Mr. Phelps? This is Special Agent in Charge Morris with the FBI. I want to commend you for raising such a fine young man. Yes sir. He kept his head about him and he’s very good with details. No sir. We’ll be stationing an agent in the house overnight with a shift change and two more agents on the street. We’re not sure at the moment but it was definitely not explosive…”

Ian, deciding there was no further news walked over and knocked softly on the bathroom door. “Michael? Can I come in?”

“Yeah.”

Ian slipped in and saw Michael standing in front of the sink, drying his face with a towel. Ian slid his hands around Michael’s waist and turned him, enfolding his lover in his arms. Michael wrapped his own arms around Ian’s neck and buried his damp face in Ian’s neck.

They didn’t speak for several minutes just trying to give each other comfort. Ian smoothed Michael’s hair, tilting his head back to look into his eyes. “We’re going to be okay. We’re going to get through this.”“I k“I know. I love you, Ian.”

“And I love you, Michael.”

“I guess we have to go back out there, huh?”

“We could stay in here if you want.”

“All night?”

Ian looked around at the small room. “It would be a tight fit but I’m sure we could make it work.”

Michael gave him a tiny smile. “You’d make me sleep on the bottom wouldn’t you?”

“You don’t expect me to sleep on the floor, do you?” Ian pulled Michael back against him. “You threw up, didn’t you?”

“Ack. Can you smell it?” Michael tried to pull back but Ian wasn’t having any of it.

“Don’t go anywhere, its okay. But you can’t afford to lose calories like that. Why don’t you go upstairs and have a quick wash up and change into something comfy. I’ll take care of things down here and make you something light.”

“Okay, but you’ll tell me about everything that happens. No trying to protect me.”

“I promise. You ready?”

“Yeah.” Michael stepped back a little, to allow Ian to open the door.

Ian took his hand and led them out into the living room. The agents and Roger all stood when they entered.

“Are you all right, Mr. Phelps?” Agent Morris stepped forward looking concerned.

“Yes, I’m okay. Thank you for talking to dad like that. He gets kind of worried.”

“That’s what dad’s do, Mr. Phelps.”

“I know. Roger, thank you for everything tonight. You’ve gone way beyond what any neighbor should be expected to do.” Michael extended his hand which Roger shook.

“It’s my job, Michael. Now that I know you’re okay and you’re in good hands, I’m going to head back home. Call me if you need anything.” He offered his hand to Ian.

“Thank you, Roger. Please extend our apologies to Joanne and your family for taking you away from them tonight.”

“I’ll do that.” Ian showed Roger out and locked the door behind him, resetting the alarm as a reflex before turning back to the group.

“Mr. Phelps, Mr. Thorpe, this is Agents Rodriguez, Wallace, Barton and Williams. Agent Wallace will be outside with Agent Barton relieving him. Agents Rodriguez and Williams will be in the house.” The agents all shook their hands and nodded. “Do you mind of two of the agents use the couch tonight?”

“Oh, we have a guest bedroom here on the first floor with twin beds if they’d like to use that instead.”

“Thank you, Mr. Phelps. Wallace, you’ve got the perimeter. Mr. Thorpe would you mind disarming the system for Agent Wallace?”

“Sorry I should have realized. It’s a habit.”

“And it’s a good habit, sir.” Agent Wallace remarked as Ian punched the code and opened the door. Ian once again reengaged the alarm and then turned around realizing he’d done it again.

“That’s fine Mr. Thorpe. We’ll get it later.”

“All right. Agent Morris would you mind having one of the agents check the upstairs? Michael wants to take a shower and I need to make him something to eat.”

“Mr. Phelps, Agent Williams will escort you upstairs and check the room.”

Michael nodded and followed the agent down the hall, looking back at Ian before disappearing up the stairs.

“Do you mind if we move this in the kitchen or do you want me to show you the guest room?”

“The kitchen is fine. Is the guest room down that hall?”

“Yes, at the end of the hall. There are fresh linens on the bed and a bath connecting.”

Agent Morris nodded his head and the remaining agents stood, heading down the hall while Ian and Agent Morris went into the kitchen.

Ian immediately opened the pantry, trying to find something bland before deciding on a couple of cans of chicken noodle soup and toasted cheese sandwiches.

“Mr. Thorpe, do you cook when you’re nervous?”

Ian spun around; he’d been concentrating so hard that he’d forgotten about the agent now sitting at the kitchen table watching him with amusement.

“I’m so sorry. Can I get you anything? I can put more coffee on, make another sandwich and please call me Ian.”

“Ian, I’m Frank. Coffee would be nice.”

“Okay and yes, I do cook when I’m nervous.”

“I guess you guys need a lot of calories?”

“Michael eats more than I do; he has trouble keeping weight on sometimes. Tonight didn’t help.”

“He was sick?”

“Yes, his father is rather intense and they’ve got a strange relationship. Thank you for rescuing him.”

“My pleasure. You don’t get along with his dad?” Frank sat back, making conversation to occupy the time and learn a little more about them.

“We’ve met and we were polite for Michael’s sake but we didn’t quite hit it off. His mother on the other hand is a grand woman.”

“His parents are divorced?”

“For many years.”

“How about your parents? Do they like Michael?”

“They haven’t met him although mum remembers him from Sydney. They’ve spoken to him on the phohoughough and both seem to like him.”

“Like who?” Michael said from the doorway dressed in sweats and a long sleeved t-shirt, wearing white socks on his feet.

“Like you; my parents.”

“Oh, your mom does like me and your dad wants to take me fishing.” Michael looked much steadier and perked up even further at the sight of food. “Cheese toasties?”

Ian sighed and rolled his eyes, causing Frank to hide a grin behind his cup.

“Yes dear. And chicken noodle soup. Sit down.”

Michael did so and noticed Agent Morris. “Hi. Thank you again for talking to dad and for being so cool tonight. Sorry for causing all the trouble.”

“You didn’t cause this, Mr. Phelps and you’re not trouble. You didn’t ask for this to happen.”

“Would you mind calling me Michael? The Mr. Phelps stuff…”

“I understand. Please call me Frank.”

“Okay.” Ian set a bowl of soup in front of Michael and one in front of the chair next to Michael and then turned around to get a plate of sandwiches.

“Are you sure you don’t want something, Frank?”

“No, go head.”

Ian sat down and began eating, keeping an eye on Michael who seemed settle down as the food began hitting his stomach. After the soup and three sandwiches, Michael got up and put his bowl in the sink and poured himself a glass of milk before sitting back down.

Ian, still toying with his second sandwich looked at him. “Are you feeling better?”

“Yes. Thank you.” Michael put his glass down and gazed across the table at Frank. “Do you know when they’ll have a chance to look at the tapes?”

“They’re probably already looking at them. Hopefully they’ll show something but if they don’t we’ll work with the evidence left in the mailbox.”

“You don’t want to tell us what that was, do you?”

“No, I really don’t. It wasn’t pretty and you don’t need that right now. And the less people who know the better chance we have catching the suspect.”

“Okay. So what happens next?”

“We’ll analyze the evidence, continue the investigation and-”

“No. I mean, what if you catch whoever; would we have to testify?”

“It’s too soon to say but it’s possible.”

“Especially if it turns out to be someone we know.”

“Yes. Michael, Ian. I need to get back to the office. I’ll either call or stop by tomorrow before noon. The agents will be here until then.” Frank stood up and drained his cup.

Michael and Ian walked him to the door, discovering Agent Williams waiting for them.

“Will you show the agent and me how to operate your system? That way he won’t have to wake you for the shift change.”

Michael gave a quick run through of the system and after they both shook Frank’s hand and thanked him again, showed him out. They said good night to Agent Williams and repaired upstairs.

Michael waited in the bathroom for Ian to wash up and then they fell into bed together. Not talking, not sleeping for a long time, just holding on.

Knot

August 28, 2005 Ann Arbor, MI

Ian woke slowly and finally opened his eyes after realizing he wasn’t going to get back to sleep. As usual, he was spooned behind Michael, holding him loosely. Which was a good sign after the night they’d had; Ian had expected to wup hup half buried under Michael or with Michael half buried under him.

Michael was snoring just slightly, more of a snuffle than a full out snore. Ian carefully rolled away from him and quietly went into the bathroom to taking care of necessities.

Michael was still sleeping when he returned and while Ian debated waking him; he decided to go down and make brunch which is what one of them did if they woke before the other although they were normally awake way before eleven am. Anything to try and recapture a sense of normalcy was good in his book.

He was reminded that all was not normal when he walked into the kitchen and found one of the agents, Rodriguez he thought, hanging up his cell phone.

“Good morning.”

“Good morning, sir. I hope you don’t mind that we made use of your coffee machine overnight.”

“Not a problem. I’m just going to put a fresh pot on and make some breakfast. Would you like some? Should I make enough for everyone?”

“No sir, that’s okay. We’ll be going off duty in a few minutes. Agent Morris is on his way.”

“Thank you.’ Ian said as he started cracking a dozen eggs into a bowl and putting a pound of bacon in a pan.

“Sir, really. It’s not necessary to feed us.”

Ian looked over at the agent and smiled. “Trust me, I’m not. This is for Michael and me.” He reached into the freezer and pulled out frozen hash browns and pancakes, grimacing slightly at each. He’d prefer making them fresh but Michael didn’t seem to mind them.

He finished prepping everything and put the bacon in the oven then poured himself a cup of coffee, sitting down for a few minutes.

“Good morning, Ian. Sorry to barge in but Agent Rodriguez was near the door and I didn’t want to ring the bell.” Frank said from the doorway. Ian started to rise but Frank waved him down. “Mind if I help myself to the coffee?”

“No, please do.”

Frank poured a of cof coffee ant dot down. “Is Michael around?”

“I think I heard him upstairs a few minutes ago. Do you want me to go get him?”

“No, its okay. I can wait for him.”

“I’ve had the bacon on for a while and that normally gets him up so it shouldn’t be long.”

“My son is the same way, his mother and I both wonder where he puts it all.”

The two chatted for several minutes until Michael walked into the room.

“Morning, love.” Ian said smiling up at Michael who leaned down and buzzed a kiss across Ian’s lips.

“Morning, hon. Omelets?”

“Yes, but Frank is here to see us.” Ian nodded across the table.

“Oh, good morning Frank. Let me get some juice and I’ll be right with you.”

“You can eat first, I don’t mind.”

“No, its okay. I’d rather wait.” Michael sat down with his juice and water and took Ian’s hand.

“Well, there is good news. The investigation is proceeding and we’re hoping to make arrests by Tuesday. We think there are at least two suspects, maybe three and the video tapes have been a big help although we’re still pursuing all leads.”

“And what’s the bad news?” Ian asked.

“The bad news is that we’d like to keep the protection detail here for a couple of days. We’ll have the four agents rotating in the house and two agents traveling with you until Tuesday.”

“Is that really necessary?”

“We don’t think they’re done, there’s evidence that this was the second attempt. We think they t to to originally place the device on the garage door. Although the device wasn’t active, at this point we’re not sure if they know that.”

“So this could be some kind of prank at best or a test run at worst?”

“Yes, Michael. I’m sorry I’m sketchy on the details here but I think it’s in your best interest to accept the protection for the time being.”

Ian and Michael looked at each other for a moment. “What do you think, Michael?”

“I think he’s the expert and we should take the protection. I think our parents and everyone will feel much better about this too.”

“Okay. I agree. Frank, would it be easier for you, manpower wise, if we brought in a private security firm?”

“I appreciate the offer and we might have to revisit that if this goes on beyond Tuesday. You know, I shouldn’t be surprised that you guys are being so sensible about this.” Frank smiled, shaking his head and chuckling a little.

“What else can we be? Frank, I hope you don’t mind but Michael and I need to eat. Would you like to join us?” Ian stood up and gestured towards the stove.

“Oh, nonks.nks. I ate earlier but please, go ahead. I won’t take up too much more of your time. What are your schedules like for the next few days?”

“We were hoping to get in a swim today and probably meet with Bob, our coach, but we’ll do that at the pool. Ian and I have dinner reservations tonight at seven, so we’ll be leaving around six. I’ll write the name and address down for you if you promise not to tell Ian where we’re going.”

Frank laughed, looking up from his notes. “Is this for your anniversary?”

“Yes. It’s a year tomorrow and I don’t see why it has to be a big secret, Michael.” Ian said a little peevishly as he set a plate on the table in front of Michael.

“Please. You took me to a private island in Fiji for our six month anniversary; let me keep a little dignity here, Ian.”

Frank spoke before Ian could. “That’s fine. What about Monday?”

“We swim at six thirty. Ian finishes at nine for an appointment in the admissions office at nine-thirty. I’ll be done by ten. We’re meeting for an early lunch at eleven then going to the campus bookstore. We’ll be back here by one then back at the pool by four for another two to three hours followed by dinner at home. We don’t have any plans to go out tomorrow night. Tuesday is more of the same except he has a teleconference in Bob’s office around five pm. Did I forget anything, Ian?”

“No, I think that’s the schedule.” Ian sat down with his own plate. “Michael, eat before it gets cold.”

“Are you two okay with the agents currently in place?”

Michael shrugged mouth full while Ian nodded. “Yes, they seem fine.”

“Good, they’ll have appropriate clothing for the pool; shorts and t-shirts with casual jackets so they don’t stick out like sore thumbs. What will they need for dinner this evening and before you ask, they won’t be eating with you.”

Michael swallowed and took a drink. “It’s business casual, so we’re wearing jackets and ties.”

“All right then. I’ll be sure the detail knows. Thanks for the coffee but I need to go back to the office. Don’t get up, I’ll show myself out. You have my card if you need to get in touch or ask one of the agents. I’ll drop by tomorrow and check in.” Frank was up and out before either could react.

“Not only is he tall, but he’s quick too.” Michael quipped.

“He certainly is.” Ian sat back and sipped his coffee. “So. Are we officially taking the calm on the surface, freaking out underneath stance?”

“Pretty much. We’re still planning to have a panic attacks later, right?”

“Yes, mine’s at ten tonight; yours is at ten twenty five.” Ian placed his hand on Michael’s and squeezed. “We’ll be all right.”

“I know. But I’m reserving judgment on the rest of the world.”

“That’s just fine with me. Are you finished?”

“Yeah, not very hungry but I’m saving room for dinner. Why don’t I clean up in here and while you round up our gear and then we’ll get the show on the road.”

“All right love. I’ll phone Bob and have him meet us there.”

They split up, took care of their tasks and met in the garage several minutes later.

“Agent Wallace, Agent Rodriguez. How do we work this?”

“If you don’t mind, sir, I’ll be happy to drive you in one of our vehicles.” Agent Wallace suggested.

“In other words, you get to drive?”

“Yes sir.”

Michael sighed and held out the car keys. “We’ll take the Deville.”

“You’re being very brave, Michael.”

“Oh shut up, Ian.”

They got in the car, Ian and Michael in the back seat with the two agents in the front.”

“By the way, I’m Ian; he’s Michael. Do you mind if we call you by your first names in public?”

“No sir. I’m Danny, he’s Mark.” Agent Rodriguez, Danny, twisted in the seat and shook their hands as Mark waved and then pressed the garage door opener.

The drive didn’t take long, aside from getting through the media gathered at the foot of the hill, which Mark took care of with precision.

“They’re looking for the SUV, I guess.” Michael remarked, as the media quickly let them through.

“It is a rather distinctive vehicle, sir uh Michael,” Danny said.

“For a pimpmobile.”

“Oh shut up, Ian.”

&&&

Ian and Michael were once again in the backseat of the Deville a few hours later. Michael had surreptitiously given the directions to Danny who passed them on to Phil and Brad, also known as Agents Williams and Barton.

Brad was at the wheel with Phil riding shotgun and both were doing a good job ignoring the backseat. Not that Ian and Michael were doing anything aside from holding hands and softly talking but agents were trained to be discreet.

The time in the pool had helped both of them. It hadn’t been a full workout but the exercise and peaceful familiarity had been calming. Their meeting with Bob had gone well, reassuring all of them. The rest of their day had been filled with calls to family and managers and sponsors, filling them in on the situation.

“Brad, that’s it on the right.”

“Okay, Michael.” Brad pulled into the parking lot down the street and turned the car off. Phil unbuckled his seat belt and turned in the seat.

“Guys, I’ll go in first and let the management know we’re here; just doing a quick check. Brad will bring you in a couple of minutes. We don’t think there’s a threat here but let’s follow procedure.” Phil got out of the car and walked up the street.

“Sorry guys. I know this it’s your anniversary and this routine isn’t very romantic but we’ll fade out once we’ve got you inside.”

“It’s okay Brad. Just do your jobs, Michael and I understand.”

A few minutes later, Brad indicated that they could go ahead in and gestured Michael and Ian to walk ahead of him.

“I finally get to see what you’ve planned!”

“You shake your Christmas presents don’t you? Here we are. Mon Jon Lau, they serve sushi, supposedly the best in the area.”

“Michael! I love sushi.”

“I know. Come on.”

The manager met them at the door, welcomed them to the restaurant and led them to a private room in the back overlooking a garden. The manager left them alone after taking their drink orders and handing them menus.

The agents had disappeared as promised that Michael and Ian enjoyed their meal in the elegant isolation; talking, laughing and occasionally kissing. Ian eaten his fill of the excellent sushi and Michael had even allowed himself to be talked into trying some.

The alarm on Michael’s watch interrupted a passionate kiss over dessert and Ian pulled back with a frown. “Do you have an appointment?”

“No.” Michael pushed the plates aside and took Ian’s hand. “I figured out something a few weeks ago. Not only can’t I imagine my life without you anymore, I can’t imagine anyone else who I could love more than you.”

“I feel the same way about you, Michael.”

“I know it’s so amazing that we found each other. Do you know what we were doing almost exactly one year ago?”

Ian wrinkled his brow. “Were we at the party yet?”

“No.” Michael leaned forward and pressed his lips gently to Ian’s before pulling back and smiling. “We had just kissed for the first time.”

“But- Oh. The time change. It was three am in Athens but only eight pm here.”

“Yep. It was two fifty two and it’s just now seven fifty one. Want to try it again?”

Ian leaned forward happily and kissed Michael the way he’d meant to kiss him that morning in Athens. When they finally drew back, Ian looked down and saw a ring box sitting on the table.

“Is that?”

“Yes. The store called on Thursday and said they were ready early so I picked them up on Friday. I hope you don’t mind.”

“Michael, of course I don’t mind.” Ian opened the box to find the two rings they’d picked out. “Will you put mine on me?”

Michael picked up the ring and kissed Ian’s right ring finger before sliding it on. “I love you, Ian and I promise to honor and respect you, always.”

Ian picked up Michael’s ring and repeated the ritual, “I love you, Michael and I promise to honor and respect you, always.”

Their lips met gently, sealing their commitment. Ian rested his forehead on Michael’s and said softly. “Damn.”

“What?”

“It’s going to be a long drive, sitting next to you in the back seat. Brad and Phil are very nice guys but I doubt they’d appreciate us doing the things I’d like to do with you.”

“Well, they weren’t part of the original plan but we’ll be home soon and in our room and able to do whatever we want.”

“And you’re worth the wait, love.”
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Last Swim