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The Sweet Life	By : jai Category: Individual Celebrities > Athlete/Sports Misc Views: 8241 -:- 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
- 14
- 15
- 16
February 6, 2010 Philadelphia, PA

“Daddy, what are you doing?”

Chloe had been drifting around the house the last half hour as the men took care of various household chores. Grant was mopping the hard surface floors, Ian was vacuuming the carpeted areas and Pieter was dusting and straightening.

“I’m ironing, Chloe.” Michael answered. “Are all your toys put away in the sunroom?”

“Uh huh.” Chloe said as she flung herself across Michael and Ian’s bed and stroked Flannel’s back.

“Did you clean your room?”

“Uh huh.”

“Good job, you finished before everyone else.” Michael finished the collar of Ian’s shirt and put the iron aside to hang that shirt up and picked up one of his own.

“But I’m bo-r-ed.” She said, stringing the word out.

“Oh, you are? What about your homework?”

“Uh huh. I did my spelling last night.”

“And math?”

“Uncle Grant helped me the other day. Uncle Pieter said we’d do social studies tomorrow.”

“You don’t have any math to do for Monday?”

“No. Daddy, can I play on the computer?”

“You know the rules.”

“But everyone’s busy! Can’t I play by myself just once?”

“Sweetie, Papa and I don’t want you using the computer by yourself.” Michael said and then continued when Chloe tried to protest. “No, end of story. If you can wait for ten more minutes, I’ll be done here.”

“Okay. Can we go to the movies?”

Michael paused and gave her a look, “I thought you wanted to play on the computer?”

“I want to go to the movies too.”

“Um. What do you want to see?”

“I don’t know, Amanda says the movies are fun. Like a big TV.”

“You’ve never been to a movie?” Michael asked, carefully putting the iron down before he dropped it.

“No, mommy said I was too young to sit still and be quiet but I’m bigger now, I’m seven.” Chloe said earnestly. “Please Daddy?”

“I suppose we can go this afternoon if there’s a good movie playing.”

Chloe jumped up and hugged him around his waist. “Thanks Daddy!”

Michael wrapped his arm around her and kissed her head. “You’re welcome but are you sure your room’s all cleaned up? No more shoes hiding under the bed?”

“I’ll go check!” She ran out, almost mowing over Ian in the hallway.

“Slow down, Chloe!” Ian said as he caught her.

“Papa, we’re going to the movies!” Chloe ducked around him and ran into her room.

Ian raised a brow and walked into the bedroom. “We’re going to the movies?”

“Chloe’s never been and she’s bo-r-ed.”

“Never?”

“That’s what she said. Are you done vacuuming?”

“Yes, the first floor is clean. I can’t believe she’s never been to a movie.”

“Me either. Any idea what’s playing that’s age appropriate?”

“There’s that new Pixar movie out. She’ll probably enjoy that and we won’t be bored out of our skulls. Maybe we should go out for lunch too.” Ian sprawled across the bed, much in the same way as Chloe had done moments earlier.

“We could but I doubt you’ll get Chloe to eat sushi.” Michael hung up the last shirt, turned off the iron and unplugged the cord.

“I wasn’t thinking we’d go for sushi, smarty pants.”

“Are you calling me names?”

“What if I am?” Ian said cockily.

Michael jumped on the bed and tried to pin Ian down but Ian retaliated by finding Michael’s ticklish spot on his ribs. Flannel gave them a look of distain for disturbing his nap and jumped down. They rolled around, each trying to get the advantage when Michael cheated, darting his head down and licking across Ian’s lips.

The lick turned into a kiss, the tussle into an embrace as Ian pulled Michael closer; their tongues and arms tangling together. Ian was starting to think he might be getting lucky when he felt a little poke on the top of his head. He froze and opened his eyes to find Michael giving him a panicked look. They broke their kiss and looked up.

Chloe was standing next to the bed, giving them a frown. “No kissing until your chores are done!”

“Oh really?” Michael asked as he reached out an arm and snagged her by the waist, dragging her onto the bed and hovering a hand near her neck, wiggling his fingers. “What about tickling?”

She gave him a wary look while Ian attacked from the other side, gently tickling her ribs. Chloe shrieked, grabbed one of the pillows and tried to hit him with it. Michael helped out by ganging up on Ian with her then the tides turned when Ian pointed out that Michael had started it. A few minutes later, Chloe collapsed in between them, panting and sweaty.

“Are you still bo-r-ed, Sweet Pea?” Michael asked, looking down at her.

“No but can we still go to the movies?” Chloe looked between her fathers, with the puppy dog eyes.

“Not only are we going to the movies, we’ll also go out to lunch. How does that sound?”

“McDonalds?”

Michael chortled at Ian’s expression. “I don’t think we can talk Papa into McDonalds this soon after the last time.”

“There are other restaurants in this world besides McDonald’s. We could go up to the mall at King of Prussia; they’ve got a great theater there and several different restaurants.”

“No happy meal?”

“Not this time,” Ian said. “How about pasta?”

“Pasta! Grant, we’re down working our fingers to the bone and they’re up here talking about pasta!” Pieter said from the doorway as Grant crowded in behind him.

“We’re just cheap labor to them, Pieter.”

“Cheap? Have you seen our food bills since you’ve been here?” Ian asked with mock outrage.

“I have seen the bills since we all contribute to it and we all know who has the big stomach in this house.” Pieter said, smirking at Michael and walking over to the bed, perching on the edge. “By the way, my father is coming to visit next weekend after the meet in California; is it okay for him to use the guest room?”

“Sure.” Michael said after Ian shrugged. “I didn’t realize the other Dr. van den Hoogenband was going to be there. I thought he was retired.”

“He is; I think he misses going to meets and of course, he’d like to get to know Grant better.” Pieter said, oblivious to Grant’s unenthusiastic expression behind him. “What was all the yelling about earlier?

“We’re going to the movies,” Chloe announced excitedly, “And lunch at the mall!”

“A movie? I haven’t been the movies in months.” Pieter said, staring at Ian and Michael before setting his gaze on Chloe.

Right on cue, she piped up, “Daddy, can Uncle Pieter go with us?”

“But Uncle Pieter is a notorious popcorn stealer, Chloe.” Ian said. “Are you sure you’re willing to risk it?”

“I’d share mine with him.”

“Ah, I see your child isn’t picking up your bad habits Ian. Thank you Chloe, I would be honored to share your popcorn.”

&&

Chloe discovered that she liked gnocchi, bruschetta, and the marinara on angel hair pasta but passed on the salmon and calamari during a huge lunch at Maggiano’s Little Italy. For the movie, they purchased a small cup of popcorn for form’s sake although everyone was too stuffed to really want any.

Chloe fell asleep in the backseat on the drive home and after getting her up to bed, Ian and Grant settled in to watch one of the football videos Ken had sent while Pieter and Michael went to the pool.

“Are Ian and Chloe taking you to the airport on Tuesday?”

“Yeah, my flight leaves at six.”

“Is Ian staying to be with Chloe? Because Grant and I would have been happy to take care of her.

“Now you tell me!” Michael said with a grin, “Actually, Ian’s still a bit leery on going to a meet and not swimming. Hopefully, once he swims at the Villanova meet, he’ll get over it.”

“Speaking of getting over things, are you done with running around town bribing people?”

“Did Ian tell you about that?”

“Yes and I thought he was trying to pull the wool over my eyes. It didn’t really sound like something you would do.”

“Well I tried but Dr. Rawlings didn’t actually take it.”

“Why were you so desperate to have Chloe go to that school? You weren’t a big fan of the private school route in the beginning, if I recall correctly.”

“It was something mom said; about a private school being safer for Chloe. Jenks Elementary was nice but it was too open.”

“Open?”

“There were a lot of doors, plenty of ways for someone to get in there and over twenty kids in each class. If one of the psychos showed up, they would have had no problem getting Chloe out of that school. With the number of students, they might not even notice right away.”

“I thought Cathy was in jail for life?”

“I’m not worried about Cathy or Taylor; I’m worried about the next one.”

“You sound like you’re expecting someone to show up. Has something happened?”

“No, nothing unusual but I wasn’t expecting it the last time either. I try not to be paranoid about it but…”

“Now that you have Chloe, you’re even more alert.

“Yeah.” Michael parked the car and turned off the ignition. “She’s had a hard enough life already without being hurt just because she’s my daughter.”

“Do you regret taking her now?” Pieter asked, completely serious.

“What? Of course not.”

“Then stop letting it chew you up. You’ve taken every precaution and you’ll only start making her paranoid if you keep this up. You won’t even take her for a walk unless one of us is with you. Not that we mind but she’s a smart little girl, Michael and she’ll start wondering why her daddy is acting like a weirdo.”

“I know.” Michael put his head down on the steering wheel with a sigh. “I’m sort of having trouble getting a handle on the fatherhood thing.”

“You were doing fine earlier today, mijn vriend. You’ve only been a father for a month, give yourself a break already. Now, are we swimming or sitting here all night?”

&&

Three hours later, Pieter tossed his swim bag in the back of the car and got in the passenger seat. Michael got in a couple of minutes later and started the car.

“Do you think it’s safe to go back?” Pieter asked.

“It’s the Sydney vs. Melbourne match.”

“The game was played almost a year ago and they’ve watched it twice.”

“You saw what happened the last time. They’ve probably just broken out the vegemite.” Pieter and Michael both shuddered at the thought.

“I am not kissing Grant tonight if he’s been eating that stuff. It’s disgusting.”

“I’m with you on that. Man, throw a bunch of convicts together and crap like that happens.”

Pieter chuckled. “Oh, good one. I guess we should consider ourselves lucky that it’s not wallaby livers or kangaroo tail.”

Michael put his hand over his mouth. “That’s gross Pieter!”

“But true.”

&&

Pieter and Michael got home around eight and were not surprised to see Grant and Ian in the family room watching videos of their other favorite show, “Deal or No Deal” and playing along with the contestants with the aid of the remote. Chloe was awake and sitting on the floor in front of the coffee table, helping to keep score.

“Hello, all.” Pieter said, pushing Grant forward on the chaise lounge and sitting behind him. “Who is winning?”

“Uncle Grant has a big lead but Papa’s gaining on him.” Chloe said. “Hi, Daddy. Did you have fun at the pool?”

“Yes but not as much fun as when you’re there.” Michael said, giving her a quick kiss before sitting down next to Ian. “Did you have a good nap?”

“Yes, I slept for a long time so Papa said I could stay up until nine thirty.”

Michael nodded. “That’s a good idea, that way you won’t be awake at five tomorrow morning.”

“Enough chit chat, we’re playing here. And no comments from the two of you, it’s too late to join the game.” Ian pushed the button on the remote to start the program again, his competitive side raring to go.

&&

February 8, 2010 Philadelphia, PA

Ian put Michael’s second bag on the curb, giving father and daughter a little time to say their goodbyes.

“I’ll call you every day at dinner time and I’ll be home on Sunday.”

“You promise?”

“I promise. And I’ll email you every day too.” Michael said, giving Chloe another squeeze before kissing her cheek. “I love you, sweet pea.”

“Love you too Daddy.” Chloe kissed him back and then Michael set her back in the car before putting his arms around Ian.

“You’ll email when you get there?”

“Yes.”

“You’ll swim your best.”

“Yes.”

Ian tightened his arms and they shared a brief kiss. “Be good while you’re gone and don’t forget to give Bob that envelope.”

“I’m always good and it’s in my swim bag.”

One more kiss and Michael stepped back and picked up his bags, slinging his swim bag over his shoulder before heading for the doors of the terminal. He turned and waved before he walked in, Chloe and Ian waving back and then he was gone.

Ian sighed and walked around the car to get behind the wheel. “Chloe love, are you buckled in.”

“Yes Papa.”

“Okay. Then let’s get out of here.”

“Can we watch the tapes of you and Daddy and the uncles swimming when we get home?”

“We certainly can.”

&&&

February 9, 2010 San Diego, CA

“Hey Michael.”

Michael turned around and saw Miles Fallon putting away his stuff a few lockers down.

“Miles! How’s it going?”

“Pretty good. How’s married life?”

“Awesome. What have you been up to?”

“School, swimming. The usual. I’m almost done with my sophomore year at UT Austin.”

“For social work, right?”

“Yep. How’s grad school?”

“I like it, just a little nervous about the dissection stuff this summer.”

“Phelps! Michael Frederick Phelps! Where are you?”

“I’m back here Bob. In the corner by the showers.”

Bob Bowman came around the corner a moment later. “Okay, where is it?”

“Oh. Hang on.” Michael pulled out the envelope that Ian had given him. “Here you go.”

Snatching it up, Bob opened it and pulled out a picture of Chloe. “Ah, there she is.”

“We sent you pictures!”

“Those were in email and they don’t count. I can’t believe you have a little girl.”

Miles gave Michael a shocked look and craned over Bob’s shoulder to see the picture.”

“I can’t either yet.”

“How’s Ian doing?”

“He’s good. She calls him Papa.”

“Aw, that’s cute but does she swim?”

“Bob! Grant and Pieter have been teaching her but we’re not going to push her.”

Bob tucked the picture into his clipboard and clapped Michael on the shoulder. “I’ve got to get out of here, have a good race!” Bob nodded to Miles before disappearing back around the row of lockers.

“You have a kid?”

“Yep. She turned seven a couple of weeks ago.”

“Wow. Why didn’t you ever tell anyone?”

“I found out before Christmas.”

“Oh. Wow.” Miles said, still looking shocked.

Michael grinned and started stripping down. “You already said that.”

“You were only sixteen; it just blows my mind. You could be a grandpa before you’re forty.”

“Don’t say that! Chloe’s going into a nunnery or something the minute she starts talking about boys.”

“Right. That’s what my dad used to say about my sister. She’s got five kids now.”

&&

February 13, 2010 Philadelphia, PA

Chloe ran into the family room and switched on the TV, taking a seat right in the middle of the couch.

“Papa, hurry up.”

“We’re coming.”

“You promised we’d watch it right after dinner. It’s after dinner.”

Grant snorted as he handed Pieter the plate he’d been drying. “She’s getting her bossy side from Ian; isn’t it cute?”

Ian flicked him with a towel and turned off the water in the sink as Chloe called for him again. Ian walked into the family followed by Grant and Pieter.

“Chloe, it’s a recording.”

“But you won’t tell me how Daddy did.”

“Because we don’t know munchkin. Your papa has been very strict with all of us; we weren’t even allowed to read the newspaper today.”

“But Uncle Grant, there’s no sports in your paper.”

“Exactly. See, even Chloe knows the New York Times doesn’t have sports.”

“Sports no, but there’s a big article on Michael in your paper.”

“Daddy’s in the New York Times?” Chloe asked, sounding much more impressed than merely seeing Daddy on TV.

Ian slowly looked over at Grant. “What have you been telling this child?”

“Nothing! We just read the paper together.”

“Uh huh. Stocks are fun. Can we watch now, Papa?”

Nodding, Ian picked up the remote and keyed up their TiVo. Michael’s race from Friday night had been broadcast live but it had been midnight in Philadelphia and they’d all been fast asleep by then.

The taped program started with a replaying of the heats leading up to the 200m Free final and the sports announcers were quick to point out that this was only Michael’s second meet since the Olympics.

“Amanda, do you think Phelps is back into his form now?” Rowdy Gaines asked.

“Actually, Rowdy I was watching him the heats and he looks better than ever.”

“Any concern that he finished in second place for the semifinal?”

“No, he’s the most experienced swimmer in this field and he’s long beyond the days of setting world records in the heats. Since he’s being coached by Australian legend, Ian Thorpe, I think they’ve got some kind of game plan going.”

“Phelps has been swimming internationally for ten years and has said he’s retiring after the 2012 Olympics in New York. He’ll only be twenty seven so do you really think he’ll retire, Aaron?”

“He’s the only one that can answer that and we’ll have an interview with the man who has seventeen Olympic medals, Michael Phelps, after the break.”

Grant, Pieter and Ian all shared a look.

“Amanda’s in broadcasting now? Pieter finally asked.

“It appears so.” Grant said.

“Papa, do you know her?”

“Yes, poppet. We all know her; she swam with us at the Olympics.”

The program returned with Amanda and Michael sitting on chairs in front of the pool.

“Welcome back to ESPN’s coverage of the 2010 FINA World Cup here is San Diego, California. I’m here with Michael Phelps, who will be competing in the 200m Free final tonight. Good to see you again, Michael.”

“Good to see you too Amanda.”

“How are you feeling?”

“I’m feeling really good. My training has been going well.”

“You’re being coached by Ian Thorpe, who you married last August. Has it been difficult being coached by your spouse?”

“Ian’s pretty tough on me but he’s also good at keeping me focused.”

“You’re also training with Grant Hackett and Pieter van den Hoogenband?”

“Well, they’re also retired so they get to take it a little easier then I do but yes, they’ve both been really great about getting into the pool and giving me a run for my money.”

“How’s college life treating you, you’re in grad school now right?”

“I’m currently studying for my doctor’s of physical therapy degree at Arcadia University. It’s a great program, all of my professors rock. I feel like I’m learning ten new things every day.”

“And Ian’s in grad school too?”

“We’re sort of a student household. Ian’s at Wharton, Pieter’s starting his residency at Temple and Grant’s running back and forth between New York and DC working on his doctorate. I call it the Phelps’ Home for Retired Olympic Swimmers.”

“Sounds like fun. You’ve recently found out you have a daughter?”

“Yes, I do. She’s a great kid. Hi, Sweet Pea!” Michael said with a wave at the camera.

“Thanks for sitting down with us today, Michael and good luck tonight!”

“Thanks, Amanda.”

The scene switched to one of the officials leading out the swimmers for the final in the 200m Free and Amanda was back in the announcer’s booth with Rowdy.

“She’s actually quite good. She didn’t ask any stupid questions.” Grant remarked.

“Then she must not have been doing this for long.” Pieter said with a catty tone.

“Papa, Daddy said hi to me!”

“I know, Chloe.”

The swimmers were announced and Grant shook his head. “Who are half those guys? I hardly recognize anyone.”

“We have been out off the swim world for almost two years; many people retired after Beijing. Oh, they’re on the blocks.” Pieter said excitedly.

The beep sounded and Michael along with the rest of the field dove into the water. Without realizing it, everyone in the family room started cheering Michael on; coming to their feet as Michael made the last turn two or three strokes ahead.

“I think he’s going to do it!” Rowdy said as Michael began putting even more distance between him and the other swimmers. “Phelps was three seconds under the world record split on that last turn. Coburn’s in second and LaSalle’s fighting off Wolansky for third but no one’s going to be able to beat Phelps here. He seems to have backed off a little here in the final sprint to the finish but yes!”

Michael touched the wall and the room cheered; it was a new world record by one and three quarters of a second. Michael turned to check his time and thrust a fist up while the occupants of the family room hugged each other, yelling and cheering. Ian’s sharp eyes caught the moment when the swimmer in the next lane with an Australian flag on his cap leaned over and gave Michael a hug.

Rowdy continued, sounding almost frantic with excitement. “Phelps has broken the world record for the second straight time. Australia’s Steven Coburn wins the silver and Georg Wolansky the Ukraine touched third. Amazing race, Amanda. Phelps was in control from the start and just pounded the competition down.”

“Rowdy, I’ve never seen him come out so strong in a race. He’s normally swims a little back in the field before turning on the speed in the last lap. This time he went in fast and kept growing the lead. What an awesome display of his total dominance in this event.”

“I know I wouldn’t want to swim against him. Did you see how tight his turns have gotten?”

“You can definitely see Thorpe’s influence there. I’m Amanda Beard with Rowdy Gaines and we’ll be right back after the break.”

The household in Philadelphia watched the rest of the program including the award ceremony in a state of elation discussing the finer points of the races but always returning to Michael’s swim.

The phone rang at eight and Chloe ran for the handset, knowing it was Michael making his nightly call. She started talking without even making sure it was him.

“Daddy! We watched you on TV.”

“You did?”

“Yes, we TiVo-ed it. You said hello to me.”

“I sure did. How was your day?”

As Chloe rambled on about her activities, Ian went and got three copies of the NY Times; Grant’s subscription copy and the two extra he’d purchased. Ten minutes later, Chloe handed Ian the phone.

“Thank you, Chloe. It’s bed time now.”

“I know. You’ll come up and tuck me in?”

“Of course I will.”

Chloe ran out of the room and they could all hear her footsteps pounding up the stairs. Ian shook his head and put the phone up to his ear.

“Hello love.”

“Hi baby. Was that-?”

“Chloe running up the stairs? No, it was the baby elephant we’ve adopted while you’ve gone.”

Michael laughed appreciatively, “And you’re letting it in the house? That doesn’t sound like you.”

“Ha. Nice swim by the way.”

“Thanks coach.”

“Amanda called it ‘an awesome display of your total dominance in this event.’”

“She said that? That’s nice of her.” Michael sat down on one of the chairs near the warm up pool, stretching out his legs in the sunlight.

“Did you know she was going to be there?”

“Nope. And I don’t think Rowdy was pleased about it either. He was scheduled to interview me yesterday but the producer saw Amanda and me talking so he put her in for it.”

“It was a good interview.” Ian said; lounging back on the couch and ignoring the kissing sounds Grant and Pieter were making at him.

“She’s fun to talk to. She’s getting married in September by the way and we’re all invited. They’re still hammering out the details but we’ll get the official invite in a couple of months.”

“Who is she marrying?”

“Brian Ogden. He’s a civil engineer, thirty two, runs marathons for fun and is doing the Ironman next year. He’s six two, has blond hair, blue eyes and hang glides.”

“Ah, you had a long talk with Amanda.”

“No, that was the first ten minutes; she’s that excited about getting married.”

“Well, I can’t give marriage a bad rap. How are you doing?”

“I miss you, I miss Chloe. I miss the house, the dogs, the damn cat and I even miss Pieter and Grant.”

“I’m glad I was the first on your list and we all miss you too. The damn cat has been sleeping on your side of the bed and it’s just not the same.”

“No it isn’t. Bob really appreciated the picture, by the way.”

“Since he demanded it, he’d better damn well appreciate it. Who the hell is Coburn?”

“Steve Coburn? He’s from Perth I think. His coach is Bernie Mulroy; do you know him?”

“Yes, I’ve met Bernie. How well do you know Steve?” Ian tried not to sound jealous but failed miserably if Grant and Pieter’s expressions were anything to go by.

“Ian, he’s seventeen. He’s a nice kid but really, how can he compare to you?” Michael sounded more amused than angry.

“I don’t like the looks of him.”

“Baby, please. I’m all yours, all the time; you know that.” Michael spoke soothingly. “We’re still on for our date on Sunday night, right?”

Taking a deep breath, Ian made a conscious effort to calm down. He didn’t know why he was so jealous all the sudden; Michael was completely trustworthy and would never betray his wedding vows.

“Ian, are you still there?” Michael asked worriedly.

“Yes love. I’m sorry; I have no idea what came over me. I’ll meet you in the shower five minutes after Chloe’s asleep.”

“Ooh, shower sex!”

“Followed by counter sex, bed sex and middle of the night sleepy sex.”

Grant leaned over to whisper into Pieter’s ear and they both started laughing.

“You certainly have been plans for us, baby.”

“You’ve been gone since Monday and I’m swimming next week. Sunday’s the only night we’ve got, love.”

“I wasn’t complaining Ian; I’m just hoping we can squeeze all that in. You think Chloe will mind going to bed at four?”

Laughing, Ian crossed his legs and threw a pillow at Grant and Pieter who had gone from teasing him to macking on each other. “I’ll see what I can do to tire her out before we pick you up.”

“Hey, don’t forget that Pieter’s dad is coming back with me.”

“Oh, that’s right. Pieter’s dad is coming to visit, I completely forgot.” Ian said loudly with plenty of enunciation then smirked when Grant froze and rolled off of Pieter, throwing a snotty look in Ian’s direction.

“Why are you speaking that way?”

“Grant and Pieter were snogging on the chaise lounge. Right in front of me and I had to stop it.”

“Ian! You’d better apologize right this minute. If Grant’s there, he knows what we’ll be doing on Sunday. How likely do you think it is that he’ll choose that moment for his revenge?”

“You have a point. I’ll take care of it later.”

“Ian.”

“Oh all right. Hang on.” Ian pulled the phone away but didn’t cover the mouthpiece. “I’m truly sorry that I interrupted you and Pieter by mentioning the unmentionable.”

Grant grinned craftily knowing full well that Michael could hear him, “I’m not really feeling this apology, Ian. Want to try again?”

Ian could hear Michael squawk and continued speaking, “However, I do need to point out that you were violating House Rule No. 2 and that Pieter’s shirt is off. Frankly Grant, I’m shocked. Absolutely shocked.” He smiled smugly as Grant’s expression changed to one of worry.

Michael spoke sweetly, “Ian, would you please hand the phone to Grant?”

“Of course love.” Ian got up and walked over, holding out the handset while mouthing ‘you’re going to get it now.’”

“Michael? Hi, great swim. Totally awesome and you’ve-.” Grant stopped speaking and nodded his head. “Uh huh. No I-. It wasn’t like-. Yes, he’s right here.” Grant quickly passed the phone over to Pieter who was trying not to laugh.

“Hi Michael. Yes, well you know how Grant is, the big lug. Of course. See you Sunday, then.” Pieter got up and handed the phone back to Ian while giving him a quick cuff to the head. “Michael says to stop making him the bad guy; it’s your damn house rule.”

Taking the phone warily, “Love?”

“Ian, I am so going to spank you when I get home; add that to your list. You exasperate me but I love you anyway. I’ve got to go warm up for the next heat, kiss Chloe good night for me.”

“I’ll do that. Love you.”

“Love you too. Behave yourself and stop picking on Grant.”

Ian put the phone down after hearing the click and glared at Grant. “You got me into trouble.”

Chuckling, Grant stood up and put his arm around Pieter, “You did that to yourself, mate. Come my little witch doctor, let’s go do something absolutely wicked that Ian won’t be doing tonight.”

“Beminde, you read my mind.”

The two men went into the kitchen and Ian heard the basement door open and close. He stood up with a sigh. No, he definitely would not be doing anything wicked tonight and he had a daughter waiting to be tucked in upstairs.

&&

Michael hung up his cell phone and put it away in his jacket, standing up and heading into the changing room to get ready for his heat. Unbeknownst to him, Steven Coburn who had been sitting a few feet behind him also stood up and followed him, his eyes glued to Michael’s tall lean body.

&&

“Great swim, Michael.”

“Thanks Miles. You’re in the finals tomorrow for the 100m Back right?”

“Yep!”

“Congratulations. You must really have been working hard because that wasn’t one of your events two years ago.”

“Coach said I should give it a try, that I had a good stroke in the medley and what do you know? Coach really does know best.” Miles grinned and shut his locker, securing the lock. “Are you still up for dinner?”

“Heck yeah, I’m starving.” Michael closed his own locker and spun the combination after snapping the lock shut. He checked his watch and nodded towards the exit. “The shuttle should be outside in a couple of minutes.”

Miles and Michael walked out to the waiting area and chatted through the wait and the ride back to their hotel on the crowded bus. Miles, sitting on the aisle, was patient once the vehicle stopped and only stood after everyone else had gotten off.

“Dude, you still have the bus phobia?” Michael asked.

“After what happened in Beijing, do you blame me?” Miles walked down the stairs and onto the pavement.

“I’ll bet you never go out on the town with Aaron and Crocker again.”

“I won’t even get in the same elevator with them. Not that it’s an issue anymore but why’d they have to let me get off three miles from the village?”

“Because they’re evil and you were the rookie. You want to stop at your room and put your stuff away? I’ll put your order in.”

“Great, I’ll have the ribs this time. Want to share the antipasto?”

“Okay. See you in a few.” Michael said, waving as he headed to his suite.

&&

An hour later, the remains of their dinner was scattered over the coffee table and Michael and Miles were absorbed in an Animal Planet documentary when there was a knock on the door.

Miles looked at Michael, “It’s your room, man.”

“Gee thanks. I buy you dinner and you can’t even do one small favor for me.” Michael said, hauling himself up. He walked over to the door and stepped back in surprise. Steve Coburn was lounging up against the door jam and giving him a sultry look, a bottle of unopened wine in one hand and two glasses in the other.

“Hi, Michael. I figured you’d be lonely tonight so I thought I’d drop by and keep you company.” Steve tried to walk in but Michael grabbed the door and prevented any forward movement.

“Whoa. Dude, I don’t know you’re doing but I’m not interested.”

“Because you’re so faithful to Ian? I can be Ian for you. I don’t mind, I like pretending that I’m the great Ian Thorpe.” Steve turned his face and tried to look down at Michael with one of Ian’s signature poses but he was three inches shorter and it just didn’t work.

Michael could see a slight resemblance but Ian was a thousand times sexier and tons smarter. “Go to bed Steve.”

“Are you turning me down because I’m just a kid? I’ve done things you’ve probably never heard of.”

Michael sidestepped Steve’s attempt to touch him and held the door firm. “I don’t care if you’ve slept your way through all of Perth. Step out of the doorway, Steve.”

The younger man’s face changed, going hard. “Yeah, like you weren’t fucking Ian when you were fifteen, you whore.”

“Michael, what’s going on?” Miles asked, approaching the door. He’d heard the whole thing and had already called security but this was turning nasty.

Steve looked between Miles and Michael, a cunning gleam in his eye. “Oh, won’t Ian be surprised that you’re fucking some American behind his back.”

Having had enough, Michael just shook his head. “Oh, please. Miles is so straight they’re naming rulers after him and Ian knows that.” Michael reached out and pushed Steve back, slamming the door in his face before turning to Miles.

“Can you believe that?” Michael asked as Steve pounded on the door.

“No, I can’t. I knew he was weird but I didn’t know he was psycho. Rulers?” Miles couldn’t help asking.

“Yep. Rulers. Thanks for coming to the rescue. I don’t think he’s going away though.”

“He will once hotel security gets here. I already called them and they’re going to wait here while I go get my stuff. I’m staying on your couch tonight just in case the nut job comes back.”

“Miles, you don’t have to do that.”

They both paused when there was a commotion out in the hallway and Steve’s shouts got louder for a minute then cut off. There was a much gentler knock on the door and an authoritative voice asked for Mr. Phelps.

Michael opened the door to find a uniformed guard waiting. “I’m Michael Phelps.”

“Sorry for the disturbance but are you okay?”

“Yes, thank you for coming. He just showed up and tried to get in.”

“Do you know him?”

“He’s Steve Coburn, he’s on the Australian team; we’re both competing out at Sea World.”

“Thank you, sir. We’ll take him down to the lobby and call his coach, I think he’s the same guy who was causing problems in the bar last night.”

“You let him in the bar? He’s only seventeen.”

“They wouldn’t serve him, so he threw a fit.”

“Sir, would you mind staying here with Michael while I go get my things? I know you’ve got that loony now but he might come back.”

“Certainly sir.”

Miles slipped out around the guard and closed the door behind him.

“Thanks for your help tonight sir, I really appreciate it.”

“It’s my job; I just hope you won’t blame the hotel for this.”

“Of course not. It’s not your fault that Steve’s a whack job.” Michael moved over to the couch and started gathering up the dishes and plates, stacking them neatly on the tray and throwing away the trash.

“Have you known him long?”

“No, just met him for the first time a couple of days ago before the meet started. And he’s a whack job for trying to drink during a meet not to mention coming up here.”

Miles returned two minutes later with one of his bags and the guard waited while Michael put the tray outside the door.

“Thanks again, George.”

“No problem, Michael. Take care of yourself and make sure those sliders are locked, okay?”

“I’ll make sure. Have a good night.”

George closed the door after waving and Michael locked it behind him.

“Gee, Michael. I was only gone five minutes.”

“What?”

“George?” Miles made a motion towards the door. “Did you guys exchange life stories?”

“Oh, well he’s married and I signed an autograph for his daughter who happens to be named ‘George’ too. Amazing isn’t it?” Michael grinned and then sobered. “Ah crap. I have to call Ian and it’s almost one there.”

“You have to tell him tonight?”

“Yeah I do. You think someone’s not already thinking about calling him or Grant or Pieter? This hotel is crawling with swimmers and coaches. I’m going to go into the bedroom and call him, I know you’re probably ready for bed but give me a few minutes.”

“Can you give me a pillow or something? I can sack out on the sofa.” Miles said a little nervously.

“Don’t worry Miles; there are two queen beds in the bedroom. The couch does pull out but it’s not the ideal sleeping surface and you’re got a big swim tomorrow. Be back in a few.”

Miles made himself comfortable and turned the volume up on the TV as Michael went into the bedroom and closed the door.

Ian had just gotten comfortable in bed after staying up a little late to watch a movie he’d wanted to see. Well, actually he’d been going to bed later every night in an attempt to not feel so lonely on the large mattress. He reached for the light and almost fell out of bed when the phone rang.

“Hello?”

“Ian?”

“Michael love, what are you doing up? You should have been in bed by now.”

“I know and I would have been but something happened earlier and I wanted to let you know before anyone else called you.”

“You haven’t hurt yourself have you? Please don’t tell me you’re calling from a hospital?” Ian sat up and reached for his glasses and notepad, ready to take down information.

“No, I’m fine. Remember how you said you didn’t like the looks of Steve Coburn? Turns out you were right to worry.”

“Did he try something?”

“He showed up here and thought he’d get some action. Thankfully, I was hanging out with Miles and he called security.”

“That bastard! Did he hurt you?”

“He didn’t even touch me. I think he was drunk but I’m not sure; security was going to call his coach. He just weirded me out. I’ll tell you more about it when I get home but I wanted to let you know.”

“Wait a minute. You’re sure you’re okay? I can be out there in seven hours.”

“Yeah, I’m okay and as much as I’d like you to be here, I’m going to be on a plane in thirty two hours. You’d just be turning right around so it doesn’t make sense.”

“Well, if you’re sure then I’ll be waiting for you at the usual place.”

“Thanks baby. I love you.”

“I love you too. Good night love.”

“Night.”

Ian hung up the phone and knew he’d never get to sleep now. While he put his slippers and winter robe back on, he mentally reviewed everyone he knew in San Diego. He knew Michael could handle this but he did have two events on Saturday and he’d need to concentrate on his swimming.

He turned the light on down in the foyer and walked down the stairs and into the kitchen, filling the tea kettle and pulling out the chamomile. The basement door opened and Grant stuck his head out.

“Ian, what are you doing up?”

“Michael just called. That dipstick Steve Coburn made a pass at him.”

“Ah, then he told you. Amanda just rang us and we were wondering.”

Ian pulled another cup down and got the cream out. “Yes, he figured someone would call and didn’t want me to worry him. Do you know anyone in San Diego?”

“Amanda. She’s keeping her eyes and ears open. Hopefully the whacker will be tossed on the next flight to Perth.”

“You know they won’t do that, Grant. Not if he’s got a chance to win a race.”

“His best event was the 200m Free, he’s a long shot for the 100 and that’s his only race tomorrow. Did Michael say anything about withdrawing?”

“No and why should he? He didn’t do anything wrong; if anyone should withdraw its Steve.”

“Well I’m glad you aren’t blaming Michael for this. What twigged you to the dipstick?”

“He hugged Michael.” Ian paused, aware that Grant was looking at him as if he were insane. “I know it sounds weird because we all hug but not after only knowing someone for a couple of days.”

“Hm. I didn’t think about that but you’re right. I wouldn’t let you hug me until won you won a gold medal because I have standards. That guy is at his first international meet and he’s running around hugging people, he’s got some nerve.”

Ian smiled, appreciating Grant’s effort to lighten the mood when Pieter padded into the kitchen.

“Snuggly bear, where did you go?”

“I’m right here Pieter.”

“I was talking to Ian.” Pieter said with a smirk as he sat down on Grant’s lap.

“Snuggly bear?” Ian asked with a laugh.

“Yes, snuggly bear. Do you have a problem with that, Pookie?” Grant said in a mock threatening tone using the nickname he’d heard Michael call Ian once and only once.

“No problem. I’ll just sit here and wait for the water to boil.” Ian said, backing off and staring innocently at the stove.

“Do you want to sleep with us tonight, Ian?” Pieter asked, making both Ian and Grant stare at him. “Oh, get your little minds out of the gutter. You’ve been moping around since Michael left and you’re not sleeping well. I’ve heard you walking around up here. Maybe it would help if you weren’t alone in the bed. It’s a friend thing, you perverts.”

“Pieter, thanks for the offer but Chloe’s used to coming in our room on Saturday mornings. Finding the three of us in bed together would be too confusing, no matter how innocent.”

“Well I offered and we’re here for you, Ian. I called my father and he’s going to stick close to Michael, just in case.”

“Thanks for thinking of that Pieter; I’m glad you’re both my friends. I don’t know what we’d do without you.”

“As we’re making no moves to find some place else to live, I don’t think you have to worry about losing us anytime soon,” Grant said.

“You know we don’t have a problem with that.”

“I know but I’m sure Pieter’s dad is going to bring it up.”

“Grant, I’ve told him he can think what he likes but it’s none of his business. I’m happy here with you and with Ian, Michael and Chloe. It’s like family but without all the baggage.”

Grant squeezed Pieter’s hand, “Amen to that.”

The kettle whistled and Ian got up and poured the water into the teapot, getting down a third cup. He was still worried about Michael but with Grant and Pieter’s support, he’d make it through the next thirty six hours.
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The Sweet Life