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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
- 22
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- 24
June 9, 2010 Philadelphia, PA

“Suitcases?”

“Six.”

“Pillows?”

“Eight.”

“Linens?”

“Two kings sets, six twins, one queen.”

“Animal stuff?”

“Dry dog, dry cat, five cans of cat food, kitty litter and pan.”

“Beach gear?”

“Goggles, caps, shoes, sunscreen, towels, chairs, carts.”

“Entertainment?”

“Books, games and cards.”

“House secured?”

“Windows and doors locked, alarms are on.”

“Money?”

“Cash, credit and traveler’s checks.”

“Chloe and the animals are already in the car, we’re all here. Have I forgotten anything?”

“Nope. I think we’re ready to go.”

Ian checked his clipboard one more time and nodded. “Okay then. Let’s close this thing and get on the road.”

It took all five men to snap the lid onto the rooftop carrier and then Michael crawled into the backseat next to Chloe. Pieter and Robert took the middle seats, leaving Grant riding shot gun beside Ian.

“Michael, where did you put the maps?”

“In the glove compartment, babe. Just follow the signs that say ‘Delaware Beaches’ once you turn off onto 1. The EZ Pass is under the passenger seat; if you hit the toll on 95 you missed the turn and watch your speed in Delaware.”

“Got it.”

&&

The few hours were quiet as they drove down through Delaware. They made a stop around the halfway point to use the bathroom and walk the dog before traveling on. The traffic wasn’t bad for a weekday but it began getting heavier as they approached the beaches.

“Ian, does that sign say ‘Indian Beach’?” Michael asked.

“Yes it does.”

“Okay. Everyone look to your front or to the left when we get to the top.”

Michael watched Chloe closely, enjoying the look she got as the water suddenly appeared.

“Daddy, that’s the ocean!”

“I know. This is always the point where you know you’re at the beach.”

“Is it much farther?” Robert asked.

“Forty more minutes more or less depending on traffic.”

“And we’re going to Maryland?”

“Yep. After we go through Bethany and Fenwick.”

“Can I go swimming as soon as we get there?” Chloe asked.

“We’ll go once we check in and unload the car. You won’t have a swim suit until we get the suitcases down and we’ll need to talk about the rules before you go in the water.”

“Okay. Are the Grannies going to be there?”

“They’ll be there tomorrow along with the Grandpas and all the aunts and uncles and your cousins.”

“Gina and Dennis and Lexie and Danica. They’re my age.”

“Yep they are. You’re sharing your room with Gina, Lexie and Danica.”

“Michael, how many of your family is going to be there?” Robert asked, not having been privy to all the planning that had been going on for this adventure.

“There are forty four of us, including you guys. We have six condos with twenty rooms total at South Beach Boardwalk but there are another ten or twelve people in other places who’ll probably come down to our area.”

“Sounds uh-.”

“Like a madhouse.” Pieter finished, “But on the other hand, there will always be someone around to do something with. Hopefully, someone will go on the rollercoaster with me since Grant is too chicken.”

“I’m not chicken, I just don’t like rollercoasters. Give me the Speedway, that’s my type of ride.”

&&

“Turn left on 6th Street, Ian. It’s the big pink building and the parking garage should be on the left.”

“I see it. Do you want to go in and get the key when we get there?”

“Yeah and I’ll bring back bins.”

“Oom Robert, will you help me walk the dogs? Papa said that was my job.”

“I’d be happy too.”

The unloading went smoothly except for Flannel meowing pitifully when his cage was moved. Between the bin, the animals, five adults and one child they barely fit into the elevator and they all breathed a sigh of relief when the car got to the fifth floor.

“Maybe we should have made two trips?” Grant said as he helped push the bin down the hall.

“Too late now. Michael, where are the keys?”

“Here.” Michael tossed them over the bin. “It’s room 502.”

“Whoa. Back up a little, we almost overshot it.” Ian said, fitting the key in the door and pushing it open. He picked up Flannel’s cage and walked in, trailed by Chloe and the dogs.

The condo was laid out with the kitchen and living/dining room in the center with two rooms and two bathrooms on either side. The two largest bedrooms and the living area had a wall of windows that faced the ocean off a long balcony.

“Wow, that’s some view.” Pieter commented as he put down the bags he’d been carrying.

“It really is.” Michael said, putting down the box of animal supplies and heading for the balcony where Ian and Chloe were standing.

“Michael, this is really incredible.”

“I know. What do you think, Chloe?”

“Can we go swimming now?”

&&

An hour later, Chloe walked across the sand carrying her towel while Ian, Michael, Pieter, Grant and Robert trudged behind hauling the chairs, blankets and other accoutrements.

“I feel like a royal attendant or a Sherpa.” Pieter said as he tried not to drop his end of the ice chest.

“God, don’t let her hear that or she’ll be asking us to bow.” Grant muttered pushing one of the beach carts.

“Chloe, pick a spot already.” Ian said.

“Okay. Here.”

“Good job! Ian, will you set things up? I’ll go get a couple of umbrellas. Chloe, you can go in the water up to your knees until one of us comes with you.”

“Okay, Daddy.” Chloe dropped her towel and pulled off her T-shirt, heading for the water.

Ian kept an eye on her while they put the chairs out, spread the blankets and positioned the umbrellas. She was carefully not going any deeper than her ankles and Ian figured she was a little scared.

“Baby, did we put sunscreen on her?”

“Yes love, I did it in the condo but we both need some for ourselves. It’s in the cooler.” Ian stripped off his shirt and shorts, revealing his swimsuit.

“I’ve got sunscreen on so I’ll go keep Chloe company. Can I take her out a little deeper?” Grant asked, folding his shirt and shorts neatly.

“If she’ll let you.”

“Okay.”

Michael spread the lotion all over Ian’s back then turned so Ian could do his. “Hey Ian?”

“Yes Michael?”

“Who’s sharing Robert’s room?”

“Your future brother-in-law, Craig.”

“I thought he was sharing with Hilary?”

“He was until Whitney kicked the loser to the curb. Now Whitney and Hilary are sharing and Beth and Colleen are in that condo.”

“I hope you got to make a lot of spread sheets for all this arranging.”

“I did and it was tons of fun. Shall we go try the water?”

“We shall indeed.”

&&

June 12, 2010 Ocean City, MD

“We look like a troop encampment down there.” Michael said as he looked over the balcony at the family members strung out across the beach.

“We have taken over, haven’t we?” Ian agreed joining Michael at the railing.

“How are your parents?”

“They’re fine and send their love. I thought you were downstairs?”

“I was until I realized that you were up here all alone and that between Grant, Pieter and the parents, Chloe had plenty of supervision.” Michael said slinging his arm around Ian’s waist and leading him back inside.

“So you came up here to have sex with me?” Ian asked. “I’m shocked, absolutely shocked. We’re married and married people don’t have sex in the middle of the day.”

“Then why are you unbuttoning your pants?”

&&

Two hours later, Ian and Michael strolled back from Thrasher’s Fries ducking around the crowds on the boardwalk and munching from one of the buckets they’d purchased.

“Do you think we got enough for everyone?”

“Ten buckets? I hope so. The question is will anyone buy that it took us this long to get French fries?” Ian said, holding the box away from his body.

“There was a really long line. That’s the story and I’m sticking to it.”

No one asked where they’d been but there were several knowing looks from the adults as Michael and Ian passed the fries around. The younger kids were busy building a sand castle in the middle of the Callahan-Phelps tribe but dropped their shovels and buckets to grab some of the still crispy potatoes.

“Papa, did Nana get my birthday card?” Chloe asked as she came over to snitch some of their fries.

“She certainly did. She said she was going to give you a great big hug when we see her in Paris.”

“Good. Am I ever going to see all my grannies and grampies at the same time?”

“We’ll see what we can do, Chloe. Here, do you want the rest of these?”

“Sure!” Chloe snatched the bucket and ran off.

“Ian! I still wanted more fries.”

“You’ve had enough. You ate a cup of fries down at Thrashers and they’re definitely not on your diet.” Ian said calmly, patting Michael’s thigh.

“Gee Coach, I’m on vacation.”

“Would Bob buy that line?”

“Probably not.”

&&

June 15, 2010 Ocean City, MD

“And Grant wins again. He really does know his way around a race track.” Michael commented as he and Pieter stood by the Formula One track at Jolly Rogers.

“That’s not the only thing he knows his way around.” Pieter said with a leer. “Are they really going to race again?”

“I think so. Maybe Ian’s hoping that the fifth time’s the charm.” Michael turned to look at the Skittlebug track, noticing that Chloe and Gina were going around again under Deb’s watchful eye.

“How many times are we going to let them do this?”

“Why? What else do you want to do?”

“The rollercoaster of course. Will you go with me? Grant is seriously afraid to ride one.”

“Sure. Let’s see who wins this round and tell them where we’re going. Chloe said she’d like to try it too.”

A couple of minutes later, Ian thrust his hands up as he finally won a race then quickly got out of the car to shake Grant’s hand and leave the ride before he was tempted to keep driving.

“Michael, did you see that? I finally won.”

“I saw. We’re heading over to the Wild Cat, did you want to come along or try one of the other race tracks?”

“No, I’ll come along in case Chloe changes her mind. You are taking her, right?”

“As soon as her ride is finished.”

The men stood and watched as Chloe crossed the finish line first, causing Ian to put a hand up. “I don’t even want to hear it, Grant.”

“What? That Chloe must get her racing genes from Michael?”

“Yes, that’s what I didn’t want to hear. Thank you for being so predictable.”

“I live to serve. Want to go on the bumper cars while they’re on the coaster?”

“Of course. There’s got to be something here I can beat you at on the first try.”

“Papa, Daddy! Did you see me win?” Chloe asked as she ran towards them followed by the other girls.

“We sure did, Sugar Plum but everyone else did a great job too. Does anyone want to go on the coaster?” Michael asked, giving her a quick squeeze on the shoulder.

“Yes!”

&&

“Ow. Ian, I don’t say this very often but I told you so. This is a tried and true activity and there is no room for innovations no matter how well you thought it would work.”

“I know and I’m sorry it hit you, now give me the mallet back and I’ll do it your way.”

Michael passed the wooden tool over and Ian picked up his knife, placing it on the crab claw and striking it with the mallet. “Ah and there it is.”

Robert watched Ian scoop up the crab meat and suppressed a shudder. “I can’t believe those things are considered a delicacy.”

“Robert, you’ve eaten crab legs before.” Pieter remarked, expertly opening the key on his second crab.

“That’s different. You’re eating the innards and there is gunk all over them.”

“Here, just try a little.” Grant said, holding out a large lump.

“Ew.”

“Oom Robert, you have to try it before you can say you don’t like it.” Chloe said earnestly.

Looking a little nauseous, Robert reached over and took the piece from Grant popping it into his mouth and chewing quickly. He swallowed then looked surprised. “Oh, that’s not bad.”

“See? And another convert is won over. Ow! Michael why did you kick me?” Ian asked.

“Because we don’t want more converts. Robert, crabs are horrible and disgusting and you’re right to stick to your burger. Don’t mind us, we’re all crazy.”

Grinning, Robert reached for a crab. “Well, there can’t be any higher recommendation than that. Now what do I do with this?”

&&
June 16, 2010 Ocean City, MD

Michael stood on a sand bar up to his chest and rose with the waves that were coming in. Sometimes, it was nice just to stand and let it happen.

“Hey Michael.”

Turning, Michael saw Robert coming towards him through the water. “Hey. Did you have fun at Ripley’s?”

“It was fascinating, especially the toothpick rollercoaster. Thank you for inviting me on this trip; I’m having a great time.”

“You’re welcome and I’m glad. I wasn’t sure if you were going to be bored or not.”

“Oh no. Pieter was right that there were plenty of people around with which to do things. The beach is sort of like the central meeting area.”

“Exactly. You can sit on the beach but there’s usually someone going off somewhere. Are you coming with us for the Assateague Adventure ride?”

“I wouldn’t miss it, in fact Chloe sent me to remind you that it’s three o’clock. Or it was when I started out here.”

“Ah. And the boat leaves at four thirty. Guess we’d better head in because I seriously need a shower before we go.”

%%

“Daddy, there’s a pony over there.” Chloe said, speaking quietly.

“I see it.”

“Will it come over here?”

“Probably not but let’s get ready to move, okay? These are wild ponies and they’re not people friendly.” Michael took her hand and started backing away.

“Are you afraid of the pony?”

“Yes. They can bit and kick.”

“So we can’t take one home with us? The man on the boat said they sell the ponies.”

“They do sell them but only once a year. They swim the ponies from Chincoteague over the mainland. It’s supposed to be a lot of fun. I’m not sure when it happens though.” Michael said, avoiding the question.

“But can we get one?”

Well so much for that. “Chloe, ponies need a lot of room and we don’t have a big yard.”

“It could stay in my room.”

“Uh huh. I don’t think ponies are happy living inside houses.”

“What about a miniature pony? They live in houses.”

“Yes but wouldn’t you want to ride a pony if you had one? You couldn’t ride a miniature pony.”

“I guess not.” Chloe said, letting out a gusty sigh then angling a calculating look at him. “Can I have a moped instead?”

“No. How about a book? There’s a book about the ponies that’s really good.”

“Hi my double loves, what are we talking about?” Ian asked as they joined him near the boat.

“Chloe wants a horse.” Michael said.

“Or a moped.” Chloe added.

“And the answer was?” Ian said, hedging a bit.

“No but we’re going to look for the book about the ponies for her.” Michael said, clearly aware of Ian’s gambit.

“What book?”

“Something and the Chincoteague. Mom will know the title.”

“Sounds like a good compromise.”

“Papa! Amanda has a moped.”

“Then Amanda’s parents are crazy!” Ian said then clamped his hand over his mouth. He crouched down and put his arm around the little girl. “Ahem. Chloe, I didn’t mean to say that.”

“But you did.”

“I know but it’s very aggravating when you bring things up that Amanda is allowed to do. You aren’t being raised by Amanda’s parents.”

“But she’s got a moped.”

“I see. But don’t you do and have things that Amanda doesn’t? Did Amanda go to Sydney? Is she here at the ocean?”

Chloe shook her head and buried her face in Ian’s neck, aware that Ian wasn’t happy.

“So can we agree that you aren’t going to get everything that Amanda gets but she doesn’t get everything you get?”

“Yes Papa.”

“Okay then. There’s a big bookstore down the boardwalk from the condo, why don’t we walk down there after we get back?”

She nodded and put her arms around Ian’s neck. “Can I have a hug?”

“Yes you may. Oh, group hug.” Ian said, hitching Chloe up and leaning into Michael.

A few minutes later, Chloe ran off to find Gina and Lexie while Ian released the breath he’d been holding.

“Why didn’t you stop me?”

“You said it so fast. I guess you reached your limit with the Amanda maneuver.”

“I did and it’s not like we’ve ever given in when she does that but I almost lost it. God, I shouldn’t have yelled at her.”

“Babe, you didn’t yell. You did snap at her but it was nowhere near a yell. You did well. You explained why you were mad but you didn’t blame her for it.”

“Really? It’s just so hard saying no.”

“But were you even going to consider a moped?”

“Oh hell no! Those things are dangerous.”

“So maybe you were reacting to the idea of a moped and not really the Amanda thing?”

Ian looked down and toed the sand a bit. “I suppose.”

“Then give yourself a break, babe.” Michael looped his arm through Ian’s and pulled him away from the boat. “We’ve got some time before we go back; want to take a walk?”

“Is that code for having a naughty on the other side of a dune?”

“You never know.”

&&

June 18, 2010 Ocean City, MD

“Do we have everything?” Michael asked as he looked over their belongings piled in the middle of the living room.

“I think so. We just need to load the car then get the animals together. Is the bin outside?” Ian said, checking his list and heading for their bedroom for one last check.

“Robert went down to get it.” Michael called, taking a seat on the chair near the window. Hey Pieter, did something happen to Robert? He’s been acting kind of weird.”

Grant and Pieter had a quick silent argument when Pieter threw his hands up and walked into their bedroom. Grant sighed and flopped onto the couch, putting his feet up on one of the suitcases.

“It’s like this. Pieter thought Robert had a thing for you.”

“For who, me?” Michael asked, shocked.

“Yes you. Because he saw Robert staring at you at couple of times out on the beach. Since Robert is not gay, Pieter was a bit worried. As it turns out, Robert was staring at you because he couldn’t believe you didn’t notice how everyone else was staring at you.”

“Huh?”

“I know it sounds strange but he was trying to figure out if you knew people were staring and just ignored it or were you totally oblivious.”

“I vote for oblivious,” Ian said as he came out of the bedroom and headed for the room Chloe had shared.

“Thanks babe!” Michael said sarcastically before turning back to Grant with a shrug. “I guess I know people look at me but I’ve gotten used to it.”

“No, Michael. They stare. Especially the other day when you were wearing the white Speedo.”

“I love that suit. You are so hot in that suit.” Ian said, going into the kitchen.

“Ian? Did you know about this?”

“Know? Not really although I did notice Robert watching you but Pieter said he was straight so I wasn’t worried.” Ian was now heading for the bathroom near the front door, check list still in hand.

“Okay. Um. So Pieter talked to Robert and…?”

“Oh. Well, they’re having a sibling tiff. It’s something to do with Pieter being bossy and Robert not wanting to be bossed.”

“That is not what this is about!” Pieter yelled as he walked out of the bedroom carrying a hair brush, waving it around in an agitated way. “He said it was none of my business and that’s ridiculous. He’s my baby brother and it’s always going to be my business!”

“Pieter, calm down.” Grant said snagging Pieter by the hand and pulling which gave him a lapful of Pieter. “Of course it’s your business but you made a mistake and you owe him an apology.”

Pieter cuddled up to Grant and stuck his lip out. “He shouldn’t go around staring at people. It’s rude.”

Ian came back in the room, carrying one of their beach towels which he stuffed into the bag of dirty laundry. “Robert’s studying psychology. Isn’t he supposed to observe things?”

Grant nodded and rolled his eyes. “I know but Pieter’s being stubborn.”

“I am not!”

“Well, I don’t care if he stares or observes or whatever. People do it all the time.” Michael said as he stood and moved towards the door. “I’m going over to Mom’s and get Chloe. Babe, did you check under the beds in her room?”

“Ah ha! I knew I was forgetting something!” Ian headed down the hall as Michael left.

&&

A few minutes later, Michael came back alone and went out to the balcony where Ian was putting the furniture back to its original position.

“Ian?”

“Yes love?”

“You know how the parents staying here for another week?”

“Yes. Help me move the chaise?”

“Sure.” Michael leaned down and took one end as Ian took the other. “Um, Mom asked if Chloe could stay with her for the week.”

Ian dropped his end of the chaise, standing up quickly. “What did you say?”

“I said that we needed to talk it over.”

“And what do you think?”

“Well, I’m worried. Not that I don’t trust them but she’s a very active kid and there’s the ocean right there and-” Michael chewed his fingernail nervously.

Ian put his arms around Michael, pulling him close. “Okay. So neither one of us wants her to stay but she’s seven and we can’t keep her to ourselves for the rest of her life. Did Deb ask in front of her?”

“Mom’s not crazy enough to do that. It’s just that she and Jackie were talking last night and since they’re staying and Chloe’s had so much fun here. I don’t know what we should do.”

“Well, I think we should ask Chloe if she wants to stay. Is it just your parents staying?”

“No, Siobhan and Linda and their kids plus Lexie. Fran and Pete are taking over our condo along with Aunt Sara and Uncle Will.”

Ian sat down, bring Michael down with him. “If she stays, are we picking her up in Baltimore?”

“Nah, Mom said she’d meet us in Christiana next Saturday.”

“Okay. I can always drive down here and get her if she wants to come home earlier.”

&&

Michael waved to Chloe, feeling a little sad but trying to put a brave face on as they pulled away and headed for home. Ian sniffled a little when they turned onto Coastal Highway but quickly got himself under control.

“Are you okay, Ian?”

“Yes. I know she’ll have a blast but it’s going to be so weird not to have her around the house. I was hoping we could get started on redecorating her room next week.”

“You could use this time to get everything organized. Uh, does Chloe know you’re redecorating her room?”

“She needs a desk and we never got around to painting the room. I was planning on taking her to a few yard sales and the like so we could find something funky.”

“Someone’s been watching HGTV again. So in other words, she doesn’t know.”

“Well, no but you’ll be busy with school and we need something to keep us occupied this summer.”

“Uh huh. Okay. Here’s an idea, why don’t you take Chloe to New York for a couple of days? You had that list of stuff you were going to do with her and she’d be thrilled to have you all to herself for a couple of days.”

“You don’t want to come with us?”

“You can go up on say, Wednesday and I’ll train up Friday night. That way you can run her ragged and I get a nice relaxing weekend.” Michael grinned.

“Oh fine. It won’t stop me from doing it but I see right through your nefarious plan.”

“I hope so Ian, he laid it right out for you.” Pieter said from the back seat. “And if Ian gets Chloe time, I demand some too. I’ve been dying to take her to Hershey Park ever since she asked to ride the Wild Cat for the fourth time.”

“And if he gets to take her to Hershey, I get to take her to DC. She’ll love the Smithsonian.” Grant said, leaning forward eagerly.

“Wait a minute. Don’t you think Chloe should have a say here?”

“No!” All three men said simultaneously.

“Now, I should get first dibs because my residency starts soon and I won’t have much time.” Pieter said.

“You? You’ll have weekends off. I should get first dibs because I have an actual job.”

“You’re both out of luck. I get her first because I’m her dad.”

Michael sighed and reached for his headphones. This was going to take a while.

August 14, 2010 Honolulu, Hawaii

Michael checked in for his flight to Newark, NJ connecting on to Paris with minutes to spare and quickly found his seat in first class. Ten minutes later the plane was pulling back from the gate and heading for the runway.

He tilted his seat back and closed his eyes. He’d left Philadelphia on August first to fly to Tucson for the Conoco Phillips long course meet then went directly to Hawaii for the Pan Pacs. It had been a very long two weeks and he missed Chloe and Ian terribly.

It didn’t help that several of the other swimmers were treating him like a pariah, especially the Australians. It wasn’t his fault that Steve Coburn was a total whack job but it seemed like several of them blamed him anyway if the comments he’d overheard were any indication.

He’d taken out his frustrations in the pool, setting two new world records but the comments and looks had made for a very lonely meet.

&&

Shuffling off the plane in Newark, Michael headed to the first class lounge and found a comfortable seat near the window and pulled out his cell phone.

“Grant and Pieter’s House of Ill-Repute.”

Michael grinned for the first time in a week. He could always count on Pieter to lighten his spirits.

“Hi Pieter. I hope the house is still standing.”

“Hi Michael. Don’t you love caller ID? The repair crews should be here momentarily. Where are you?”

“Newark. How are you guys?”

“We’re good. I’m getting ready to take the dogs for a walk and then make dinner. Did you have a good meet?”

“Eh. I won my races but it wasn’t much fun.”

“I’m sorry to hear that. You sound a little depressed.”

“I’m just tired and I’m missing my family. I wish you guys were going to be in Paris too.”

“So do I but I’m enjoying my residency. Oh, here talk to Grant or the dogs are going to bite me.”

Michael heard the phone being passed and Grant’s familiar voice was on the line.

“Hello, Michael. So you didn’t enjoy the meet?”

“No but let’s not talk about it. How’s the grading going?”

“God, I’m beginning to doubt that some of these students were actually in class let alone opened the book.”

“I’ll bet you now appreciate every teacher you ever had.”

“I’m considering sending all of them flowers. I’m not sure if I’m going to survive teaching three classes next month.”

“It’ll be easier on a regular semester and summer classes are always a bitch. Will one of you be home when the work crews get there tomorrow?”

“I will be. How long are they going to be here?”

“Seven or eight days. Thanks for doing that for me.”

“No problem. We’re still not telling Ian about this?”

“You can tell him about the pool but you can’t even mention the other thing. It’s a surprise for our anniversary.”

“You two are so weird!”

Michael hung up a few minutes later and dialed Ian’s cell phone and heard it pick up three rings later.

“Daddy!”

“Chloe! How’s my girl?”

“I’m fine, how are you?”

“I’m doing fine. What are you doing?”

“I’m waiting for Papa to tuck me in. He’s talking to the Grannies.”

“Did you have fun today?”

“Uh huh. We went to Notre Dame and took a ride on the Seine. I got to practice my French at lunch.”

“Oh, that does sound fun.”

“Daddy, are you still coming tomorrow?”

“I sure am. I’m already in New Jersey and I’ll be there to go with you to watch Papa compete tomorrow.”

“Good because Papa really misses you. He told Nana that he wasn’t sleeping well. Do you think I should let him have Hans?”

“Well, I don’t know. Papa does need his sleep but so do you. Can you sleep without Hans?”

“I can do it for one night. Oh, hi Papa.”

“Chloe, are you calling Japan again?”

Michael laughed as he heard Ian’s question.

“No, I’m talking to Daddy.”

“You called Daddy?”

“No, Daddy called you. I promised I wouldn’t call anyone anymore.”

“I’m sorry, dearling, for doubting you. Can I talk to Daddy?”

“Okay.”

“Michael?”

“Hi Babe. I miss you.”

“I miss you too. Where are you?”

“Newark, my flight leaves in a couple of hours; do you want to call me back after you’ve tucked Chloe in?”

“Ah, yes if you don’t mind. It is getting late here so let me pass the phone back to Chloe and you can tell her good night and I’ll call you in a half hour.”

“Okay.”

&&

Thirty three minutes later, Michael’s phone rang and he snatched it up happily.

“Hey again, babe.”

“Hi love.”

“Is Chloe-?”

“Out like a light. The mums walked her little feet off today at Notre Dame.”

“I thought you went with her?”

“I did but I sat at a café with David and Daniel and helped Daniel practice his walking. Then we took the river cruise with lunch, not that Chloe or Iona ate much. They were too busy pointing at things.”

“Sounds like fun. How’s the apartment?”

“It’s wonderful, Michael. You were very lucky to find this.”

“I know but give all the credit to Maureen. I told her what I wanted and she made all the arrangements.”

“That woman is truly a miracle worker. The apartment is in a great location.”

“I’m glad you like it. What time are you swimming tomorrow?”

“Three thirty to six.”

“That’s it?”

“Yes, they don’t have semi or quarter finals. Everyone swims once, men and women together sometimes, and they compare times. So I’ll be able to give you a proper welcome tomorrow night.”

“Oh, that’s right. That just seems so-”

“Simple? Yes it does but then, these games aren’t televised so there are no ratings to consider.”

“True. God, I really miss you.”

“I miss you too. Nice swim you had there on- well, yesterday. I caught the report on the internet this morning.”

“Thanks, babe but it’s getting boring. I hope you and Chloe can come to one or two meets with me next year.”

“Oh, I think we can manage that. Have you eaten?”

“On the plane; it was okay but nothing like Qantas.”

“Well of course not. Why don’t you go grab something? You’ll feel better with a full stomach.”

“I suppose I would and I’m going to sack out on the plane so yeah, that’s a good idea. I’ll see you tomorrow baby. I love you.”

“I love you more. See you tomorrow.” Ian said followed by the click of the phone, leaving Michael with a big smile on his face.

&&

The approach into Charles de Gaulle Airport was a little rocky but the plane landed safely and Michael grabbed the carryon he hadn’t bothered with the whole flight. He’d slept deeply for most of the ride and now felt raring to go and almost ready for the bright sunlight pouring in the windows as he made his way through Customs and out into the baggage claim area.

He looked around quickly, trying to spot Ian as he waited for his luggage and started to get a little worried after his bags showed up and there was still no Ian. He was reaching into his carryon for his cell phone when he started paying attention to the airport’s paging system.

“Will the fathers of Miss Phelps please meet their party at the Information Desk in Terminal B?”

The message was repeated several times and Michael stopped to ask for directions before taking off at a run. What the hell could have happened?

He spotted the desk and increased his speed finally seeing Ian standing at the desk holding Chloe tightly. Chloe gave Michael a cheerful wave and poked Ian to get his attention.

“Daddy! Papa got lost!” She announced once Michael was close enough to hear her.

Michael dropped his bags and put his arms around both of them, noticing how shaken Ian looked. “What happened?”

“We stopped so Chloe could use the bathroom and I waited and waited. Then I realized there was another door and she must have gone out that one and I looked everywhere. God, Michael I’m so sorry.”

“Sorry for what? Chloe, are you okay?”

“Yes Daddy. I saw un officier de police and I told him my papa was lost. He brought me here and Mlle Angelique said that she would tell the whole airport you were missing! Beaucoup d’excitation and Mlle Angelique complimented me on my accent. She said I sound very Parisienne.” Chloe said, waving at a smiling woman behind the counter.

“Michael-”

“Ian, it’s okay. You spent all that time telling Chloe what to do if she couldn’t find us and look how well she did! It’s okay. Do you need to sit down?” Michael asked as he rubbed Ian’s back, looking worriedly at Ian’s pale face.

“No, no. I’m okay. I just was so panicked that I couldn’t think clearly. It’s rather ironic that she remembered what I couldn’t.” Ian smiled ruefully and leaned into Michael for a moment. “Um. Welcome to Paris?”

&&

They made their way to the train station after thanking Mlle Angelique, Chloe skipping along between them occasionally translating signs.

“How was your flight?”

“Long but I slept through all but an hour of it.”

“Did you eat on board?”

“No and I’m starving.”

Ian reached into his pocket and pulled out an energy bar. “This should hold you until we get to Montparnesse. You didn’t come all the way to France to eat in the airport.”

“Thanks baby.” Michael took the bar and ripped off the wrapper. “How are we traveling?”

“Chloe and I think we have the Metro figured out. We made it here without any problems. God, please don’t tell the parents that I lost Chloe, they’ll disown me.”

“Papa, you were lost. I knew where I was.”

“Yes, I realize that Chloe.” Ian said, rolling his eyes and making Michael grin.

“Are we stopping at the café, Papa?”

“Yes we are and yes you can have the croissants.”

“Merci, papa.”

&&

After only one missed stop which was quickly corrected, they were soon back in the sunlight and on the streets of Paris. Michael blinked and pulled out his sunglasses, following Ian and Chloe who seemed to know where they were going.

“Is the apartment close by?” Michael asked.

“Yes, it’s just down the street. I’ve already arranged to Maureen to have dinner on us at Daniel’s; she really outdid herself this time.”

“With her boyfriend?”

“With anyone she’d like. She’s very closed mouthed about her personal life and I don’t want to pry.”

“Um. You know, I’ve known her for eight or nine years and I still don’t know much about her. She’s so properly British.”

“She’s not British, she’s from New Zealand. Although she did live in London for a few years.”

“See? I didn’t even know that.”

“And here’s the café. Go on in and get a table, I’ll just ring up to the apartment and let them know we’re here.”

“Okay.”

&&

Three minutes later, Ian went inside and found out why no one was answering upstairs; they were already in the restaurant and had several tables staked out. Ian came over and took the empty seat next to Michael and inched his chair a little closer, putting his arm along the back of Michael’s chair.

Michael nodded at something his mom was saying then leaned over to whisper to Ian, “Stop worrying about it.”

“I’m trying but I feel like I’ve lost ten years off my life.”

“You’d better find them fast; those are my years and I want every one of them.”

“Hey you two, what are we doing today?” Debbie asked from the other side of the table.

“Well, I need to be at the pool by three.”

“Are you resting today then? I’m sure we can find something to do if you’d like to stay behind.” Ken said, holding up his cup for the waiter to fill.

Ian was really tempted to take his father up on that offer and make some excuse for Michael to stay behind with him but he did have to swim today and they’d have plenty of time this evening to spend time together.

“We have a couple of options. We can take the train out to Elancourt and visit France in Miniature then have lunch at Auberge de Manet or we can visit one of the gardens. Le Jardin d’Acclimation is more of an amusement park but since we’re going to D-I-S-N-E-Y next week, I vote for the Miniature Park. It’s supposed to be quite impressive.”

“Papa, I know how to spell.”

“I know you do, Chloe but let’s keep that our little secret. Michael, are you sure you’re up to playing tourist?”

“Sure.”

&&

Michael stepped out of the shower and dried off quickly, feeling very refreshed and ready to go. He dressed casually and carried his dirty clothes into the hall and down the room he was sharing with Ian. Although it didn’t have an adjoining bathroom, it had a great view and the largest bed so it was a good trade off.

He put on his watch and tucked his wallet in his pocket before getting his dark clothes together and taking them into the other bathroom that had a washer. He was lucky that Ian had packed a couple of changes of clothes for him because two weeks on the road had certainly left him low in the wardrobe department.

“Hey, are you ready to go?”

Michael turned to see Ian leaning on the doorframe. “Yep. No. Wait.” Michael walked over and put his arms around Ian, leaning in and kissing him with fervor before leaning back. “Now I’m ready.”

“Oh. Now I’m wishing we weren’t going.” Ian said, licking his lips and pulling Michael back for another kiss.

“Um. But we have to go; you’re the only one who can speak French.” Michael said before getting another kiss.

“Chloe’s got a good vocabulary, I’m sure they’ll manage without us.” Ian murmured as he nibbled on Michael’s earlobe. “I missed you so much.”

“I missed you too. Ian, oh. That’s so good.” Michael tilted his head and eased his hand down the back of Ian’s jeans to cup Ian’s buttock.

“Ahem. Boys?” Ian and Michael sprang back like naughty children, both looking at Jackie who was wearing a big grin. “Are you staying here or going with us?”

&&

Michael was glad he thought to grab his camera at the last minute because this French Miniature park was fantastic. Chloe and Iona were having a ball looking at all the scale models and spotting the moving parts. It was really neat that the kids could get right in with the exhibits and he got several great photos.

It took a little coaxing to get the girls out of the park but they were soon heading back to the city, deciding to eat lunch in the apartment so Ian could rest before his swim. It was Michael’s turn to resist temptation two hours later when he ghosted into their room to see Ian napping peacefully.

Sighing, Michael gathered up his whites and went out quietly, changing the loads over and taking his clean clothes into the living room where the parents were sitting around with their feet up and the kids were watching TV.

“He’s tall, gorgeous and does laundry.” Chris commented, looking up from the guidebook of London she’d been pouring over.

“I cook, do the dishes, mop the floors and mow the lawn too.” Michael quipped as he started folding his undies and T-shirts; he then switched into an exaggerated Southern accent. “One of these days I’m gonna get me a man. I jest gotta ketch me one.”

“I think Ian would object to that, Michael.” Margaret said as Debbie and Jackie laughed.

“So Michael how was your summer class?” Ken asked a couple of minutes later when Michael finished folding and finally sat down.

“I thought I’d really have trouble with it but after the first hour, it was really interesting. I mean, I’d seen it all in books but anatomy is different in three dimensions.” Michael said, not going into detail because of the young ears in the room.

“Did you-?” Jackie asked.

“Oh yeah but Pieter got me through it. I called him from the bathroom and he gave me a little pep talk. It was the smell that got me. Pieter had slipped a jar of Vicks Vap-O-Rub into my bag and that really helped for the first couple of days.”

“When does your clinical start?” Chris asked as she helped Daniel with his building blocks.

“This fall. I’ll be working at the Children’s Hospital in the Sports Medicine and Performance Center. It was my first choice so I’m really happy about it. If things work out well, I’ll be doing my second clinical there too. I’ve also already gotten my advisor’s approval on my independent study project. I’m going to be researching the effects of hydrotherapy on post-remission pediatric cancer patients.”

“I see. What does that really mean?” Ken asked.

“Does swimming help kids recovering from cancer?” Michael clarified.

“Oh. It sounds interesting. Will you be Dr. Phelps at the next Olympics?” David wanted to know.

“If I keep on track, I’ll graduate in February 2012. The first licensing exam is in April but I might wait until after the Olympics and take it in September; it depends on how many races I decide to do.”

“You haven’t decided yet?”

“Nope. I need to see what my course load is like that final year. I’d love to swim every race but I want my degree more,” Michael said matter-of-factly, folding the last shirt. He looked up when he heard Debbie sniffling. “Aw, mom. Why are you crying?”

“Because I’m so proud of you. I never thought I’d hear you say something like that.” She leaned in as Michael sat down on the arm of her chair to put his arm around her.

&&

Chloe sat in between Debbie and Margaret with Jackie, Michael and Ken in the row behind them as they watched the 100m Freestyle swims. The races were set up so the same age groups would be swimming together and the next race was the start of Ian’s group – the twenty five to thirty year olds.

“Daddy, where’s Papa? Are they starting yet?”

“In a minute. Oh, wait. There! Chloe do you see him?” Michael said, pointing towards one side of the pool deck.

“Yes! Oh, he looks faster than everyone else. Do you think he’s going to win?”

“He’s got a good shot at it.” Michael patted her shoulder.

“He looks good, doesn’t he? Very fit.” Margaret commented as Ian took the blocks.

They all held their breath and watched as the swimmers launched themselves into the water.”

“How many times, Daddy?”

“Once up and once back. Go Ian! Come on!” Michael yelled, getting to his feet as Ian made the turn.

Ian touched the finish wall first but Michael looked at the clock then let out a loud whoop. 47:21! Not only a new age group record but only two seconds off the record Michael held.

“He won! Papa won! Daddy, he won!”

“He did!” Michael gave her a hug then hugged all the parents who had cheered just as loudly as he had. They settled back down as Ian and the rest of the swimmers in the pool got out, many of them congratulating Ian.

“Excuse me, aren’t you Michael Phelps?”

Michael turned to see a man standing in the aisle with a press pass around his neck. “Yes I am. Hi, how are you?”

“Fine. I’m Jim Buzinski from Outsports, nice to meet you finally.”

Shaking his hand, Michael grinned. “We kept missing each other in Beijing, if I remember correctly.”

“We did but you were pretty busy, weren’t you? I was hoping I could sit down with you and Ian sometime this week for an interview.”

“I’ll have to check with him; he’s swimming the 400 tomorrow so Wednesday would probably be better. Is there a way I can contact you?”

“Sure. Let me give you my number.” Jim pulled out a business card and wrote a number on the back.

“Thanks. Oh, gosh. I’m sorry, where are my manners? I think the jet lag is catching up with me. Jim, this is Ian’s dad Ken, his mom Margaret and my moms, Deb and Jackie. The shrimp is our daughter, Chloe.”

“Nice to meet you all.” Jim said, shaking their hands and getting a curtsy and an ‘enchanté’ from Chloe much to Jim’s amusement. Jim was just turning to go when Ian came springing up through the stands, now dressed in a warm up suit.

“Michael, did you see that?” Ian asked excitedly. “I’ve still got it!”

“You do indeed! That was a great swim!” Michael said, putting his arms around Ian and giving him a kiss. “Congratulations.”

“I haven’t won anything yet. Boy, I thought it would be easier not having heats but I’m not sure about this waiting thing.”

“Des félicitations Papa, vous avez nagé vraiment rapide.” Chloe said, hugging his waist.

“Merci, Chloe. Êtes-vous eu l'amusement?”

“Oui, Papa. Quand saurez-vous si vous gagniez?

“Oops. We’re being rude, Chloe. Hopefully, I’ll know by six.”

“Ian, have you met Jim Buzinski from Outsports?”

“Actually, I think we spoke a few years ago. In Beijing, wasn’t it Jim?”

“Yes, you have a good memory. I was just asking Michael if perhaps the three of us could get together this week for an interview.”

“I told him that Wednesday would be a good day.” Michael put in.

“Yes, that sounds good. We’re going to the Cité des Science et de l’Industrie that morning but I’ve got to be back here at four. How does two thirty sound? We could do it here or at the café across the street.”

“That’s great. Thanks guys and I’ll see you then.” Jim said, shaking their hands again and going back to his seat.

“Um, Ian? I think Dean is trying to get your attention.” Debs said, nodding back to the pool deck where the Team Philadelphia coach was impatiently waiting.

“Ack. Gottta run.

&&

Ian closed the bedroom door, taking in the sight of a naked Michael lounging on their bed. “Oh, va-va-va-voom!”

“Well, you did win your race so you deserve something good. I’m yours to command.”

“Ooh. You’ll do anything?” Ian asked as he hurriedly undressed.

“Anything that doesn’t stop you from racing tomorrow which is why I didn’t pack the whip.”

“We have a whip?” The shirt, shoes and pants were off and flung away as Ian stepped out of his underwear and crawled onto the bed.

“Yep. Aaron gave us one for a wedding present.”

“Uh huh.” Ian said as he draped himself over Michael. “And where is it?”

“In the bottom drawer of my nightstand. It sort of creeps me out because I keep thinking it’s a snake. Oh. Lick. Ear. Oh. Ah. Ian.”

“I missed you so much.” Ian murmured his lips heading for Michael’s other ear via Michael’s jaw line.

“Me too. Gah. Woo.”

They had a quick but thoroughly enjoyable romp between the sheets, Michael trying to make sure he didn’t get too loud as Ian nailed him to the sheets. Afterwards, Michael flipped them over so he could use Ian as a pillow and nuzzle his chest.

“God, I love it when you shave down. You feel so smooth and silky; are you using a new razor?”

“Um. I wasn’t sure if I would shave so I didn’t pack one. I borrowed three of Chris’. There’s a conversation most guys don’t get to have with their sisters.”

“I’ll bet although I did use one of Whitney’s the first time I shaved down. She almost killed me when she went to use it later.”

Ian snorted. “I don’t blame her. You only needed one razor?”

“I was thirteen.”

“Ah. Guess you didn’t have much hair. What meet was that for?”

Michael buried his face and sort of mumbled his answer, turning a bit red.

“What was that?”

Sighing, Michael lifted his head. “It wasn’t for a meet; I just wanted to know what it felt like.”

“How did you do it by yourself?”

“Double jointed, remember?”

“Oh, yes. Did you notice that Chloe is too?”

“Yep. Her teacher mentioned it one day when I picked her up. They thought she’d broken her leg but it’s just the way she sits sometimes. You don’t mind about the interview, do you?”

“Not at all. Are we-?” Ian paused when there was a knock at the door. Michael made sure the sheet was pulled up before he asked who was there.

“It’s David. Do you have a minute?”

“Um. Sure. Give us a sec to get decent.” Michael said, rolling off Ian and picking up their sweats. He threw Ian’s over to him and opened the window a bit. It probably wouldn’t help and David surely knew what they’d been doing but there no need to be obvious.

Opening the door, Michael saw David and Chris standing there and was glad he’d gotten dressed in more then undies. “Hey, come on in.”

They entered and Chris sat down on the edge of the bed, leaving the desk chair for David. They both looked very serious and Michael felt his chest clench up. He sat down next to Ian who was also looking a bit worried.

“Well, we’re just going to come out and say this. The head guy at SpectraCon has really been pushing for us to move. He’s offered me a huge raise and they’re going to not only pay for our housing in London but they’ll have our house in Sydney looked after while we’re gone. Plus a corporate car and so many other perks, my head is still spinning. They want us to move as soon as possible. Meaning we’ll probably be in London by October.”

“Oh. Well that’s great David!” Ian said sincerely. “You must really be valuable to them.”

“Thanks but that brings up another problem. We’re going to need to bump up the baby schedule by a few months. They want me there but it’s still only for two years.”

Michael let out the breath he wasn’t even aware he was holding. “Wow. Um, I thought you’d changed your minds.”

“No way. I’m committed to doing this but we know the timing is essential, especially for you Michael.” Chris said, patting his foot.

“What?” Michael asked, confused. “Because of school?”

“That and the fact that you have the Olympics coming up. Are you okay with having a baby in the house while you’re training?” Ian asked.

“Of course I am. If the first attempt on the old schedule had worked, we’d have had an eight month old. Now the baby will just be a little older, knock on wood. Babe, are you still worried that I’ll change my mind?”

“Well, a little. You took so long to say we would do this.”

“No I didn’t. I waited until we saw Chris and David in person but it’s not the kind of thing you tell people over the phone. Ian, I want this baby and I think it’s more than wonderful that Chris is willing to do this for us. Please stop worrying.” Michael said, giving Ian a little peck on the nose.

Ian nodded and leaned his head against Michael’s for a minute. “Okay.”

“Great. So Chris and I were wondering about something. How is this all going to happen, technically speaking?”

“That’s a good question. We can do this two ways; Whitney or Hilary will fly over to London for the egg recovery or Chris will come over to Baltimore for the implantation.” Ian said. “We already talked to a clinic in Baltimore and one in London who are willing to work with us.

“Baltimore would be easier, I suppose since you’re going to have to be involved in there somewhere Ian. Mum’s already said that she and Dad would come to London to watch the kids and she wants to be there to help out while I’m pregnant.” Chris said, looking less than thrilled. “I love her but you know how Mum drives me crazy when we live in the same house for more than a couple of weeks.”

“Um. Well, Ian and I would like them to come live with us while you guys are in London. We were going to ask them while we’re all here.”

“Really? Ian, did you talk Michael into that?”

“No, it was his idea and he had some good points. Chloe would love having her grandparents close by, I’d love being able to see them every day and you know how much Mum and Dad like Michael. For us, it’s a win-win situation. Additionally, they’d be much closer to London because there’s no way Mum and Dad would miss the birth.”

“So we’ve got that settled depending on what the parents say. What about Whitney and Hilary?

“Actually, they’re both going to do the fertility treatment and donate eggs. They don’t want to know whose eggs are actually used. Any fertilized eggs will be ours and any unfertilized eggs are their property although we’ll be paying for storage. The treatment takes three weeks so they’ll need four weeks warning from you.” Ian explained.

“They don’t want to know?” David asked, looking surprised.

“No they don’t. Since the baby will be raised as a niece or nephew, they said it would be easier if they didn’t know. Dr. Veracruz said that they’d choose the eggs with the best chance of surviving so we won’t even know. Now, Ian’s got to be there for your appointment but do you mind if I come along?”

“Of course not. Wow, this is getting complicated. Ian, do you have your laptop here? I need to make some notes about this.”

“Chris, I’ve got this great new software you’ve got to take a look at. It’s got a neat linking function that’s perfect for notes. Scoot over, Michael so I can get up.”

David and Michael shared a look as Chris and Ian left the room. “Did you realize what a big geek he was when you married him?”

“Oh, I knew and it didn’t take the twenty-two spreadsheets he used for our wedding either.”

“Twenty-two? Chris had thirty lists but that was before she got a computer. Hey, there’s some of your mum’s spaghetti left in the fridge. Want to go-.” David stopped speaking as Michael sped from the room. “Well, I guess he does.”

&&

August 27, 2010 Paris, France

“Ian, where’s my black suitcase?” Michael asked his head in the closet.

“You mean the one I’ve already packed? It’s by the bed.” Ian said as he packed his own bag.

“You didn’t have to pack for me.”

“Yes I did. We’re not going back to Philadelphia today.”

“We’re not?”

“Nope. Debbie and Jackie are escorting Chloe back to Philadelphia and we’re going to the Hotel Plaza Athenee for our anniversary. Which is tomorrow. In case you forgot.” Ian said quirking an eyebrow at Michael.

“I so did not forget and your present is at home. You arranged all this?” Michael asked, jumping on the bed and putting his arms around Ian.

“Yes I did. We only get one first wedding anniversary.”

“Oh, Ian. What a great surprise. Did Chloe know about this?”

“She did indeed and she’s got your attitude about surprises: the more the better. So what did you get me?”

“Uh-uh. No you don’t. You’ll find out when we get there. Are we taking everyone to the airport?”

“Yes we are. The car should be here in an hour or two. Is this mine or yours?” Ian asked holding up a red shirt.

“Yours. If it’s an hour, then don’t we have time for –“

“Daddy! Papa! I can’t find my yellow sneaker.” Chloe yelled from her room.

“Check under the bed!” Ian and Michael yelled together then shared a grin.

“I guess a quickie is out of the question.”

“I’m afraid it is. Why don’t you go help her before-?”

“Papa! Daddy! I can’t find it.”

Michael sighed and stole a kiss. “She’ll just keep yelling but I’m putting in my request for sex followed by sex and then maybe some sex once we get to the hotel.”

“Duly noted.”

&&

Ian and Michael stood silently as Chloe disappeared through the security gates at Charles de Gaulle, her little hand waving at them.

“Are you okay, Ian?”

“Yes, it’s hard but I’m being very brave, aren’t I?”

“We both are. They’re going to call when they land?”

“Debs promised the second they were on the concourse; she’d give us a ring. Ready to go?”

“Sure.” Michael led the way back to the taxi stand. “How fast do you think we can check in and get on with the sex?”

“What is with this obsession you’ve developed?” Ian asked idly as he took Michael’s hand.

“It really turns me on when you win and you won all four of your races so I can’t keep my hands off you. Are you complaining?”

“I certainly am not. I’m looking forward to seeing the ceiling of our suite.”

%%

“Don’t you dare laugh.”

“But-”

“Michael, I’m warning you.”

“But I- I can’t help it. That tick-hee!” Michael said, letting the giggles loose and pulling his foot back. “You have such a foot fetish.”

Ian grumpily knee-walked up the mattress and flopped down next to Michael. “Would it kill you to let me do it? Just once?”

“It might. Can you die from laughter?”

“You are not that ticklish. Normally.”

Slinging a leg over a very pouty Ian, Michael snuggled in and ran a finger over that bottom lip that drove him mad. “Normally I’m not but I just can’t watch you do that without it tickling.”

“Because it’s weird.”

“No, I don’t get it but it’s not weird. It’s the watching thing. It never tickles when you do it in the middle of the night but then I can’t see you and I’m usually half-asleep. I offered to turn over.”

“But then the angle isn’t right.” Ian said, half whining. “How about a blindfold? We could use one of my ties.”

“I’m game but you’re the one who’ll have to get up and find one. Did you even pack a tie?”

“No. Damn. How about when we get home?”

“Sure.” Michael said, lifting his head to give Ian a kiss and catching sight of the clock. “Hey, it’s almost four and we didn’t get any lunch. Does this place have room service?”

“It does and I’ve already ordered for us. I’ll call down and let them know we’re ready then we can shower and eat on the terrace.”

&&

The view of the Eiffel Tower from their terrace was breathtaking and was almost enough to distract Michael from meal Ian was setting out on the table. However, when he caught sight of the large rib eye steak on his plate, he couldn’t have cared about the view.

“Ian, you ordered this for me?”

“Yes. Steak with baked potato, green beans and chocolate cake for dessert.”

“That’s my favorite meal.”

“But of course. You were expecting some kind of frou-frou French food?”

“Well we are in Paris and isn’t Alain Ducasse the chef here?”

“We are and he is but you’re normally very tolerant of my foodie ways and I didn’t want to make you eat foie gras on our anniversary. Not that it’s going to stop me from eating it but you don’t have to.”

“Aw, you’re so sweet. And I do like the things we eat at the frou-frou places but I guess this means I can cancel the reservations for Morimoto?” Michael asked with a sly grin.

“Morimoto? You got reservations there? We’ve been trying to go there since we moved to Philly.”

“I know. We’ve got reservations for next Saturday night at seven. Chef Morimoto will be there and we’re having the omakase menu. Chloe is also going since you’ve got her converted to sushi. Grant and Pieter took a pass.”

“Michael, is that my present?”

“Nope. You know I wouldn’t have told you if it was.”

“Ah, then this is a decoy present. Well, I can live with that. How’s your steak?”

“Great. How’s your-? Well, what is that?”

“Terrine of duck foie gras, followed by Atlantic bass with clams. And it’s good. Would you like a bite?”

“Um no thanks. I still can’t deal with foie gras.”

They finished their meal, Michael enjoying every bite of his chocolate pudding while Ian had a rum baba before relaxing over glasses of Champagne.

“So Ian, I’ve been wined and dined now tell me what’s on your mind?”

“You think I have an ulterior motive?”

“Yes.”

“You know me too well. I’d like to call Carl when we get back and move forward on adopting Chloe.”

“Oh. And you thought I’d object?”

“We did talk originally of waiting for a year.” Ian said uncertainly.

“So Chloe could have a chance to get used to us. I think she’s gone beyond that now, don’t you?”

“Well she does rule the roost but with the second revision of the baby schedule, she might be hurt when you adopt the baby and if I don’t adopt her.”

“Good point. All right, we’ll call Carl; I’ve been meaning to call him anyway. We’ve never gotten a copy of Sara’s death certificate and we were supposed to be billed for her funeral arrangements. Did I miss those?”

“No, I never saw them. Carl did say he was going to contact Sara’s lawyer about finding Sara’s parents but we’ve never heard anything about that either. Maybe we should go see him?”

“Okay but we’ll have to coordinate on the appointment. My class schedule is kind of wonky with the hours at the hospital.”

“I’ll take care of it when we get back.” Ian put his empty glass down and stood, holding out his hand. “Now, it’s time for sex.”

“Okey dokey. I’d suggest we try it in the shower but after our wedding night, I think we’re safer on the bed.”

“And to think I only married you for your beauty.”

&&
I know. 10,000+ words and only a suggestion of smut. It'll be back now that I'm on vacation and I won't have work sucking up all my brain cells.
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The Sweet Life