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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
- 31
- 32
- 33
April 1, 2012 Philadelphia, PA

Michael paid the cabbie, slogged his bags up to the house and entered through the back door; being careful to reset the alarm. It was only six forty two and the house was silent in the early morning light.

Avoiding the right side of the third tread, Michael went upstairs and peeked in the boys’ room then checked on Chloe before sneaking into the master bedroom. He threw his clothes into hamper and crawled into bed wearing his boxers, coming to rest next to Ian’s long warm body.

Two minutes later Ian rolled over and snuggled up, Ian’s nose finding the spot below his ear as it always seemed to do. Michael stroked his hand down Ian’s back, not really feeling tired enough to sleep and thought about being a twenty six year old happily married man with five children.

It wasn’t something he normally dwelled on but one of the interviewers this week kept asking him what it was like. Only she said it like he’d just been through a natural disaster or was suffering from a rare disease. She also made it clear she thought his relationship with Ian was not going to last long ‘because one of them would wake up sooner or later’.

Needless to say, the interview didn’t last long and he’d been pretty ticked off afterwards. Luckily, he had the 400 IM later that night and his irritation had come in handy but it certainly started him thinking. He’d been in love with Ian since he was fifteen years old. Not that he’d known that at the time but over the last twelve years, he’d learned a thing or two.

He knew it was a cliché but he really did love Ian more with every passing day. Somehow, they’d taken a night of casual groping and built it into an incredibly complex and extremely satisfying relationship. It wasn’t his fault that people thought he should be out there having some kind of playboy life.

“Darling if you keep playing with my ass like that, you’re going to have to also play with my front.”

“I didn’t know you were awake.”

Ian nodded sleepily. “I wasn’t but you were feeling smug about something so I had to wake up and find out what it was.”

“I wasn’t feeling smug, I was feeling lucky.”

“Ooh. As in getting lucky?” Ian said, popping his head up.

“Hey, I’m game if you are.” Michael said with a grin as he felt Ian’s erection pressing against his thigh.

Ian leaned in and just as their lips touched, the sound of one of the boys crying came over the monitor. Ian stopped and they both looked at the nightstand.

Ian rolled over and put his hand over his face. “Oh crap.”

“I’ve got him.” Michael said, already getting up and heading for the nursery. By the time he opened the door, Robbie was dripping with tears and holding his arms up. “Aw, sweetie pie. What’s wrong?”

Michael hoisted the baby into his arms and put his hand on a flushed forehead. “You are running a little fever and,” Michael put his finger in Robbie’s mouth and winced when it was immediately gnawed on. “I know it hurts but Dad’s here. How about a diaper change and a nice bath? Then we’ll do something to help with that tooth. Off with the sleeper. Yes, those are cute little tootsies. Now, can I have my finger back? No? Um. Let’s see if we can-. Nope. Gotta have two hands here, son. Your papa is sleeping in so keep it quiet.”

“Pa?”

“Yes, the tall man who – did you just say ‘Pa’?”

“Pa!”

“How about that. Was that your first word? Hey, Ian did you hear that?” Michael asked the monitor.

“Yes I did.” Ian said quietly from behind him. “But he’s saying ‘Ba’ not ‘Pa’.”

“That was definitely a ‘Pa’. Come on, Robbie say it again.”

Robbie was too busy sucking on his foot and staring at them to oblige.

“Well, he’s got your feet Ian.” Michael commented as he opened Robbie’s diaper.

“Don’t diss the feet. Oh ew.”

“Diarrhea. Nice. Did he have this earlier?”

“No. Trust me I would have remembered that.” Ian said from outside the bathroom.

“Could just be from the teething but if he’s still got it later, we should call Dr. Callabresi. Oh, look at that smile. See, I told you a bath would help you feel better.”

&&

Michael took Robbie and Harry downstairs, sitting them both in the play yard in the kitchen so he could pull their high chairs over and started the water. Babies were settled and bottles handed out while he put a clean wet cloth in the freezer. He started the coffee like a good husband, mixed up some pancake batter and set the bacon under while rooting around for the frozen potatoes.

“Okay boys, we have oatmeal and apples. How do you feel about that?”

“Pa?” Robbie answered as Harry kicked his feet against his tray.

“Now you say it.” Michael rescued the bacon and pulled the remaining high chairs over as he sat down and opened a jar of baby food. “Yummy food. Num num num.”

“Aw, Grant. Look at how well the babies have him trained.” Pieter remarked as he walked into the kitchen.

“Hi Pieter, Hi Grant. Congratulations again.”

“Thank you. Want to see my ring?” Grant asked, holding out his hand.

“Oh very nice. And where’s Pieter’s ring?”

“It’s on order.”

“Or so Grant says.” Pieter accused, stealing a strip of bacon.

“You surprised me, proposing like that out of the blue.” Grant defended as he sat down next to Harry. “Why are you using two spoons?”

“Robbie’s got the runs. Might be the teething or something more serious so I figured I’d play it safe.”

“Hand over Harry’s spoon and I’ll take over.” Grant offered as Pieter washed his hands and came over to feel Robbie’s forehead.

“He’s a tad warm. Did you take his temp?”

“Not yet. Gave him a bath which seems to have helped. He’s got a little rash started on his chin.”

“So I see. He didn’t have diarrhea last night. Was it bad?”

“It was catastrophic; it was a poo of titanic proportions.” Ian said as he walked in carrying Jamey and Liam. “Liam’s got a touch of it too.”

Pieter washed his hands again and took Jamey from Ian so both boys could be strapped in to their chairs. “That means water but no fruit juice today just to be on the safe side.”

“We should probably do that for all of them then.” Michael advised.

Ian poured himself a cup of coffee and brought over two bottles, handing them over to Liam and Jamey. “Do you think we should separate the boys?”

“I don’t know. This might just be a combination of teething and too much juice. I did notice Liam stealing Harry’s sippy cup yesterday and you know how Robbie likes juice.” Pieter said, stretching out his legs. “We’ll take their temps after they eat and see what it says.”

“Speaking of eating, Robbie’s done for the moment so I’ll get our breakfast started.” Michael said as he got up and cleaned Robbie’s spoon. “Anyone have any objection to omelets and pancakes?”

“Sounds good to me but it’s my turn to cook.”

“I don’t mind, Pieter if you’ll feed Jamey.”

“Sold!”

&&

After breakfast, they took the boys into the family room and talked about the meet and the previous week as the boys rolled around on their play mats.

“Who do you think is going to crawl first?” Grant asked when they’d exhausted those subject matters.

“They’re really trying aren’t they?” Ian said. “But I think Liam’s going to surprise us. He might just be sitting there but he’s watching the others try it and he’ll be the one who figures it out.”

“I’m glad their temps are in the normal range but I think Robbie’s teeth are still bothering him. See how he’s rubbing his mouth?” Pieter pointed out.

“I see it and I’ll be right back.” Michael went into the kitchen and came back with the partially frozen cloth. He sat down next to Robbie and picked him up, inserting a clean finger into his mouth and gently rubbing the sore spot. “Aw, that’s where it’s hurting. Dad’s got something right here that should help. Let’s try something cold, huh?”

Robbie seemed a bit startled at first but soon was chewing on the cloth, leaning back in Michael’s arms and looking up at him. “Mowm?”

“See I told you it would feel better.”

“While we’re all here, shall we go over the schedule for the summer?” Ian suggested.

“I suppose we’d better or you’ll hunt us down and make us do it later.” Grant teased.

“You’d be right. I’ll go grab the calendar.” Ian got up and went into the kitchen coming back with large wipe off calendar that normally hung on the wall near the eating area and spread it out on the coffee table, keeping the markers in his lap and out of the babies’ reach. “We’ve already got the big events listed but what do we need to add?”

“Ken’s appointment tomorrow at eleven.”

Ian marked it down. “Amanda and her crew are coming this weekend for that Olympic scholar thing.”

“And I have a photo shoot on the eighteenth and nineteenth.” Michael added.

“Where and for whom?”

“Here in Philly and with ‘People’ magazine. You have the Trials marked down?”

“Yes, May thirtieth through June sixth and I’ve already made our reservations. Grant, Pieter?”

“My semester ends on May seventeenth and I’m not teaching summer classes this year because of the remodeling. We close on the house on April thirtieth.” Grant answered as Ian wrote those dates in.

“We’re still talking it over but we hope to get everything done by October although I’m not going to hold my breath.”

“Pieter, were you able to get the time off for New York? Michael asked as he put a sleepy Robbie down and covered him up.

“Yes, it required some switching around but since I’ve been a good boy and always switched with other people, I had plenty of guilt to work with and I haven’t really used any of my vacation since I started. Now I have enough for New York and our honeymoon next year.”

“Have you decided already where you’re going?”

“We’re thinking of Saba.” Grant answered and as he expected, both Ian and Michael looked puzzled. “It’s part of the Dutch West Indies.”

“Um. I’ve never heard of it. What’s it like?”

“Tiny. There are only two thousand year round residents so it isn’t so touristy. His Majesty suggested it; he and the Queen thought it was charming.”

“His Majesty?” Michael asked.

“Yes. He heard about our engagement and called to offer his congratulations.”

Grant snorted, “I think he was angling for an invitation.”

“Grant! It was bad enough that he called when I was naked; stop saying that.”

“It’s true. He asked all those questions about where and when.”

“He called when you were naked? You didn’t tell me that.” Ian asked, highly amused.

“Yes. It was very embarrassing so don’t tease me.”

“You know if you did invite him, Chloe would be your best friend for life.” Michael said.

“I know and she’s already campaigning but you see, we couldn’t just invite them; we’d have to invite a whole host of other people and we want a small wedding.”

“You know we might not have a choice if he insists, Pieter.”

“I know but I’m going to try anyway.” Pieter said stubbornly.

“The thing to do is to find out what his schedule is and schedule your wedding when he’s busy.” Michael pointed out as he crawled over to Jamey who was making suspicious grunting sounds.

“That’s an idea. You guys are coming with us to California next year, I hope.”

“That depends. Are you driving or flying?” Pieter asked as he slid to the floor and snagged Liam from rolling under the TV.

“Flying. I considered driving but it’s too much of a trip for the boys.”

“Then we’re definitely coming. Three days at Disneyland with the ankle biters? Wouldn’t miss it. Hey, Harry. That’s Gizmo’s tail, not a chew toy.” Grant said as he rescued the dog. “Ew. Someone needs a change. What are you feeding them that makes that kind of smell?”

Michael picked up Jamey to head for the bathroom, “It’s the formula.”

“Can’t you use something else?”

“This stuff has the same stuff as breast milk. From my experience with Iona and Daniel’s diapers, I’d say that breast milk is worse believe it or not.” Ian answered.

“How can anything be worse than that?”

&&

April 5, 2012 King of Prussia, PA

Michael found a parking space and turned the car off as he shared a look with Ian. “Are you ready?”

“As ready as I’ll ever be. Let’s do this.” They got out and followed Chloe into Nordstrom’s department store as she headed straight for the lingerie department.

“May I help you?”

It never failed to amuse Michael that Ian could get fast service in certain places just by showing up. It was always a woman and this time was no exception.

“Yes, we’re looking for bras for our daughter.”

It was even more amusing to watch the look of interest fade as the sales clerk’s eyes first flicked at Michael then Chloe before glazing back over. Those eye flicks were enough to make Ian’s head come up as he gave the woman a steady look.

“Oh. We have several starter bras in the back.” The woman waved, clearly not interested in helping them anymore.

“Thank you.” Ian said politely as he led Chloe not to the back wall but over towards the sports section.

“Papa, she said-“

“Chloe, obviously the woman doesn’t know what she’s talking about and she’s rude to boot. If this place wasn’t the only store that carried what we’re looking for, I’d take our business elsewhere.”

“Uh, Ian? What are we looking for?”

“Sports bras. Ah, here’s the one. Chloe, what do you think of this?” Ian asked as he pulled out a plain white bra.

“It’s okay.”

“No, touch it.”

“Papa!”

“I’m not being silly. It’s got a wicking fabric so you won’t get all sweaty.”

Chloe reluctantly reached out and touched the bra, smiling a little. “Oh, it’s soft.”

“Yes it is. I know you probably had your heart set on a frilly lace bra but you’re involved in too many sports. Support is more important although we will get something really fab for special occasions.”

Michael watched Chloe’s face fall then brighten and was once again thanking whatever it was that brought Ian into his life. “Hey Chloe, they also have those in beige and pink.”

“We’ll get six white, six beige and two pink. That’ll give you bras for two weeks. Michael, make sure you’re getting the right size. She needs a thirty.”

“Got them.”

“Good.” Ian handed the bras he’d gotten over to Michael and led Chloe over to the training bra section, leaving Michael to follow them.

The training bras where quickly examined and dismissed, leaving Ian and Chloe to wander around in the section looking at the various options. Chloe quickly found out that black, red or any other ‘racy’ style was not going to be allowed but that still left plenty of other things to look at.

It was Michael however who found a nice peach bra, in the right size with matching panties that passed inspection and they were soon standing in line at a register and walking into the mall proper for lunch. Having bra finding skills didn’t mean that he got to chose where they were eating and he wasn’t surprised when Chloe and Ian turned into the Pacific Grill.

After lunch, they set off to replenish Chloe’s wardrobe around the mall then stopped at Wal-mart to visit the feminine product aisle.

“Well Chloe, what do you think?”

“I don’t know, Papa. Granny Deb said I shouldn’t use pads but what about swim practice?”

“Huh. Okay, I didn’t think about that.”

“I did.” Michael said. “The girls at the meet suggested you start off with the teen pack from Tampax or the slenders from Kotex. O.B. tampons are okay but there’s no applicator. Other alternatives are sponges, The Keeper, the DivaCup or the Instead Cup. I ordered those so you can give them a try and I think we should get different kinds of pads and tampons so you can try them out too and see what you like best. The only thing I’m going to insist on is that you never use tampons overnight.”

Both Chloe and Ian were staring at him when he finished. “What?”

“Daddy, did you do research?” Chloe said, sounding impressed.

“Of course I did pumpkin. This is a special step for you and it’s important that we all be prepared.”

“Thanks, Daddy!”

Ian sidled over to him while Chloe was making her choices and pinched his arm.

“Ow, what was that for?”

“For making me believe that you were dreading this.”

“Oh I was. The bra part was kind of scary and I really couldn’t get up the nerve to ask the women about their first bra buying experiences.”

“But discussing tampons and pads were no problem?”

“That’s different. Breasts are sexy but periods are not; I didn’t want anyone thinking I was hitting on them or something.”

“Good of you, Michael.”

Michael grinned and leaned up against Ian. “I thought you’d appreciate that.”

&&

April 6, 2012 Philadelphia, PA

“Guys, these are the cutest kids I’ve ever seen.”

“Thanks, Amanda. I see you’re about to have a cute kid of your own.” Michael said with a nod towards her stomach.

“You can tell? I’m barely showing!”

“A doctor knows these things,” Grant quipped.

“When are you due, Amanda?” Pieter asked.

“November tenth. We’re already trying out names.”

“Are you going to find out the gender or wait?”

“We want to know so we can decorate the nursery; I’m going in for a sonogram next month and we’re crossing our fingers.”

“Are you still going to New York?” Ian asked with concern.

“Yes but I’m only covering the finals and doing a couple of interviews depending on how I feel. The tough part will be getting home afterwards since I’ll be in my third trimester. This didn’t happen with the best timing but Brian and I are thrilled.”

“We’re thrilled for you. As you can tell, we’re pretty pro-baby around here.”

“Daddy! Papa! Where’s my -?” Chloe asked as she ran inside only to come to a dead stop when she spotted the woman sitting on the sofa holding Harry. “Oh. I’m sorry.”

“Chloe, you remember Mrs. Ogden.” Ian said.

“It’s Amanda. Hi Chloe, we met at Ian’s graduation.”

“Hello, Amanda. It’s very nice to see you again.” Chloe said politely, shaking Amanda’s hand.

“What are you looking for, Chloe?” Michael asked.

“My shin guards. I thought they were in the pool garage but they’re not.”

“Try the shelf out in the house garage. What are the answers?” Ian asked.

Chloe rolled her eyes as she snitched a sip of Ian’s water. “Micah’s yard, his mom is home, I’ll check back in at three and I’ll be careful.”

“Okay then. Get some water out of the fridge before you go. Now give us a kiss and scram.”

“Bye!” Chloe said before kissing Ian on the nose and running back out followed by the fridge door and back door slamming.

“Wow, she’s really growing up.” Amanda commented. “You’re going to be fighting boys off with a stick.”

“Lalalalala. Can’t hear you.” Michael said holding his ears. “There’s a reason we live right down the street from nuns.”

&&

May 17, 2012 Glenside, PA

The hooding ceremony at Arcadia University for Doctors of Physical Therapy was a small affair compared to Ian’s commencement at the University of Pennsylvania but that didn’t stop the entire Phelps-Callahan contingent from showing up again. Once again, they’d lucked out with the weather and as he watched his father walking along with Chloe, he couldn’t help noticing how well Ken was moving.

It had taken all of Michael’s considerable will power to get Ken to follow through with his promise to go to the doctor last month. After some tests, a new medication and Michael working with him four times a week to rebuild his strength, Ken was now out of bed every day and was even losing some of the weight he’d gained.

Of course, that just confirmed his parents’ already stellar opinion of Michael but Ian really didn’t mind. He just saw it as verification of his own excellent taste.

“Ian, can you hold Liam for a minute?” Debbie asked. “I’ve got a stone in my shoe.”

“Sure.” Ian said as he took the baby and held an arm out so Debbie could steady herself and shake out her shoe. “Hey Liam. Are you having fun?”

“Pa!”

“That’s me.”

“Dow?”

“Nope. You’re not getting down.

“Dow!”

“There are too many people who can step on little babies so no.” Ian said as the PA system crackled and a voice asked people to take their seats.

“He’s really big on the getting down thing.”

“Yes but he has no rhythm.” Ian quipped, causing Debbie to laugh. “He’s the escape artist of the bunch so don’t let him go. Shall we head for the bleachers?”

“I suppose we’d better.” Debs said keeping her arm in Ian’s as they walked.

“Are you excited about having more grandchildren?”

“Yes. Whitney looks good doesn’t she?”

“She really does. Michael even approves of Trent.” Ian said with a grin. “Are you disappointed they didn’t have a big wedding?”

“Honestly?”

Ian nodded.

“I’m relieved they got married at all so no I’m not. I just never expect them to end up together; they’ve been friends for ages and the next thing I know, she’s calling me from Vegas.”

They found their seats and sat down, Ian sitting next to Fred who was helping Jamey stand while holding his hands. Ian did a quick head count and came up missing one boy.

“Fred, have you seen-? Oh. There’s Robbie with Siobhan.”

“Yes, she’s been hogging him since we got here.”

“Speaking of hogging, Fred. Hand Jamey over, it’s my turn.” Jackie said.

Before Fred could protest, Ian passed Liam down. “Just don’t let go of him, Jackie. He’s small but he’s fast.”

Ian suppressed any nervousness about not having all four babies near and turned his attention to the program. The hooding ceremony was only an hour; he could deal for an hour.

&&

“Can I take off the robe?” Michael asked when he finally made it into the minibus after getting his picture taken with what seemed like a thousand people and signing some autographs.

“No!” Pieter, Grant and Chloe answered.

“Michael, I’m afraid you’re stuck in that gear for the duration.” Margaret said, patting his shoulder.

“But I’ll get crab stuff on it.”

“Then eat carefully. Ian, can we get going? Ian?”

Everyone looked around and Michael realized that not only was Ian missing but so was Robbie. He turned to get off the vehicle when he spotted Ian a few cars down with Robbie in his arms, heading their way.

“Hey, what happened?”

“I was rescuing him from Siobhan then he needed a change. Are you driving?”

“I am. Can I take this-?”

“No!”

&&

Ian pulled two trays of food out of the spare fridge and trucked it out to the backyard for the ravenous horde known as Michael’s family. He ignored the fact that his father was one of the first ones to queue up for the goodies and went over to the grill where Grant was flipping burgers and turning shrimp kabobs.

“Grant, how are your supplies holding out?”

“I’m good. It seems like Dr. Phelps could use a hand though.” Grant said, nodding towards where the tables where set up and Michael was handing out paper towels and drinks to the crowd eating crabs while trying to hold on to Liam who was in serious down mode.

Dr. Phelps had been allowed to change into shorts and a t-shirt after the first hour and his long tanned legs looked really good, Ian thought to himself as he walked over.

“Give me Speedy Gonzales.”

“Thank you!” Michael said, handing the boy over.

“Pa! Dow dow dow!”

“Okay. Let’s just get of the way and you can get down.”

“Dow?”

“Yes.” Ian walked over to an open bit of grass and let Liam loose, keeping a sharp eye out and not daring to sit down. Sure enough, Liam headed straight for the pool where Pieter was playing life guard for Chloe and the younger kids and banged on the screen before turning to look up at Ian.

“Pa?”

“Do you want to go swimming?”

“Pa!”

“Ian, we’ve got swim diapers out here so let him in. You know he’s not going to give up.” Pieter said. “It’s baby swim time and the food’s ready so everyone out.”

The kids started complaining but got out anyway, taking turns in the bathroom to put their clothes on while Pieter got out and opened the door for Liam, snagging the baby by his shirt.

“Not so fast there, little man.”

Satisfied the situation was under control; Ian went back over and sat down near his dad after getting an ice tea for himself. The fact that his dad was sitting in a spot where Ian could gaze upon Michael was purely coincidental. He wondered if he could convince Michael to wear his robe and hood to bed tonight.

May 22, 2012 Outside of Jackson, NJ

Michael made sure Chloe was securely belted in to her seat and checked Amanda’s belt too. Both girls were half asleep from spending the day running around the amusement park and riding as many rides as they possibly could. Michael himself felt a little worn out as he made his way to the front of the minibus and helped get the boys settled.

They were all feeling ragged and it looked like Ian was struggling not to yawn as they sat down in their seats at the front of the bus and Michael turned the ignition.

“Fun day.”

“Yes it was. I’m surprised we could wrench Grant and Pieter away from their house.”

“I’m surprised Grant went on a rollercoaster.”

“Well that wouldn’t have happened if Chloe hadn’t bet him that he wouldn’t.”

“And now she has to help Grant clean up roofing tiles.”

“At least she negotiated a good hourly rate off of him.” Ian grinned.

“If she keeps that up, she can pay for college on her own.”

“Hm. I thought we’d let her buy her own car.”

“Oh no. We’re buying her car because if it’s her money, she’ll get some sporty little convertible. She’ll have to live through having a sensible car with plenty of safety features.

“I didn’t think of that. Speaking of buying things; I want to remodel the kitchen.”

“Uh. Okay. Why? I thought you liked the kitchen.”

“I do like it but after I spent an hour washing off little fingerprints from cabinets and mopping the white floor, I’ve been reconsidering.”

“Okay.”

“I have other reasons. Want to hear them?”

“Go for it.”

“There’s no place to store snacks for the boys at their level once they’re ready for that stage. By that time we’ll also need a more functional mud room for coats and shoes. I love having the table so close but we’re too cut off from it when we’re in the kitchen. Finally I hate where the fridge is. There’s no where to put things down.”

“Is that it?”

“I don’t like having that space between the top of the cabinets and the ceiling, it’s a dust trap.”

“All right. I get your points but kitchen remodeling? God, that’s such a pain.”

“I know. That’s why I want to wait until Grant and Pieter’s kitchen is done so we can go mooch off of them while ours is being done. We can also use the kitchen in the basement.”

“I suppose you already have a plan?”

“Just ideas. Instead of having two walkways on either side of the stove, we move the stove to the sink wall and open up the middle with the new sink on one side and a prep area on the other with the fridge. We can even put in bar stools and vary the counter heights so one area works for us and the other can be used by the short folks.”

“What about the island?”

“Change the direction so it’s long ways and make it skinnier. That’ll be where the boys’ snacks could go.”

“Well I’m not objecting to it but not until after New York.”

“No, I was thinking next spring to give us plenty of time to plan.”

“Are we going to use Grant and Pieter’s contractor?”

“She seems nice but I’m waiting to see how she does.”

“Now I’m going to change the subject. I have the weekend off after the Trials; do you want to take a quick trip up to New York and look at the house? We could drive up Saturday morning.”

“We’ll be able to get in?”

“Yeah. Gwen said she could meet us there with the keys. The owners are leaving June first.”

“Tell her we can be there at eleven.”

“Assuming I actually qualify of course.” Michael said with a grin.

Ian was just taking a drink of water and almost laughed it up. “Don’t do that!”

&&

May 31, 2012 Philadelphia, PA

Ian put the last suitcase in the back of the bus and stepped aside so his mother and father could take their seats. The boys and Gail were already on board and he was just waiting for Pieter, Grant and Chloe who finally came out of the house.

“Sorry. Sorry. I was on the phone making sure our train tickets were right. Chloe noticed that the date was wrong on hers.” Pieter said with an apologetic shrug.

“No worries. Was it just her ticket?”

“No, it was all three. It’s not that big of a deal but we’re to get replacements at the hotel. Grant, would you take my bag back?”

“Yes, hand it over. Chloe, do you have the Times?”

“Right here Uncle Grant.”

“Okay. Let’s get seated so we can hit the road.”

Pieter took the shot gun seat while Grant and Chloe went further back and sat down behind Ken and Margaret. Ian waited for Grant to give him a wave then pulled the bus out.

“Pieter, are you sure you don’t mind bringing Chloe back with you?”

“Not one bit. Grant’s looking forward to having his assistant baker in house and full access to the kitchen. He says he’s going to give soufflés one more try while the house is empty and if he can’t get it this time, he’s giving up forever.”

“I can’t get a soufflé to turn out right so I don’t blame him. He’s really come a long way cooking wise, hasn’t he?”

“Yes he has and why do you think I decided to snatch him up? After that magnificent Chateaubriand he made, I really had no choice.”

“That was a rather successful dinner. I almost proposed myself when I tasted it.”

“That’s one of the things I love about him, he keeps working on something until he masters it.”

“So how is the wedding planning going?”

“We’ve narrowed it down to the first weekend in May; on Saturday. We’re flying to Amsterdam on Wednesday and flying to Saba on Sunday for a week. The King will be in Greenland that week so we’re safe thank goodness.”

“Have you gotten around to asking Michael?”

“No, I thought you were going to tell him.”

“Pieter, I can’t tell Michael something like that. You have to ask him yourself.”

“Ah. No wonder he has done nothing about planning my bachelor party.”

“Wait. You’re expecting a bachelor party?”

“Well of course. Aren’t you planning one for Grant?”

“Sure I am.” Ian said after a short pause. “Uh, I was planning a nice night out before you leave. With cigars and pleasant conversation amongst Grant’s work friends.”

“Wow that’s pretty good for pulling it out of your ass Ian.”

“Hey! I wasn’t expecting that you’d expect bachelor parties. What kind of party would you like?”

“Something like you just described. In fact, I don’t want to be rude but maybe it could be a small party for the people we aren’t inviting. We really don’t need bachelor parties, at least I don’t. I was only giving you a hard time.”

“I figured that out. Are you sure?”

“Well, talk to Grant but I don’t want one. The last one still makes me nauseous.”

“You did drink quite a lot that night.”

“It was the only way I could stop thinking about what I was doing the next day. It’s the one thing in life I really regret aside from not swimming at Beijing but they’re sort of interrelated.”

“I don’t blame you for that.”

“Then I look at Grant and the life I have here and I wonder if this could have happened without it.”

“You look much happier.”

“I am happier than I ever thought I could be.”

“And I’m glad for both of you.”

&&

June 2, 2012 College Park, MD

Ian felt a little conspicuous as he walked back into the bleachers holding Jamey who was no longer screaming his head off but walked on despite the looks he got. Jamey was a baby and babies had needs. Ian didn’t take him to movies or the theater but a swim meet was filled with people screaming anyway so what did it matter?

“Hey baby. Is Jamey okay?”

Ian whipped around and saw that Michael had followed him from the deck. “Michael, what are you doing?”

“I’m not up for the next heat.” Michael said as he took Jamey’s hand and made a funny face at the baby who started babbling at him.

“But you should be in the warm up pool.”

“Yeah and Bob’s probably having a fit but what happened? I’ve never heard Jamey scream like that before.”

“Uh, we had a wardrobe malfunction.” Ian said discreetly, looking around at the people who were obviously listening.

“Huh?”

Ian leaned in and whispered, “His diaper got twisted and pinched his penis. It’s all fine now and no harm done.”

“Oh. Ouch. Poor Jamey.”

“I’ll say.”

“How are the kids?”

“They’re fine. Now go back down there.”

“But I don’t want to. It’s probably much more fun up here.” Michael said with a pout which Jamey instantly mimicked.

“Oh now look at what you’ve done. You weren’t supposed to teach him that.”

“Ian, he learned that from you.” Michael said flicking Ian’s lip with his finger and winking. “Oops. My temporary master is bellowing. Catch you later. Be good for Papa, Jamey.”

“Da!” Jamey cried, holding his hand out as Michael trotted back down the stairs.

“I know. Da has to go swim but he’ll be back later. Let’s go see what mischief your brothers have gotten into while we were gone.”

“No.”

Ian stopped and looked down at Jamey. “A new word?”

“No?”

“Ah. Well don’t teach that to the other boys just yet. Let’s keep it our little secret.”

“Pa!”

“There’s my boy.”

&&

June 4, 2012 College Park, MD

“Chloe, make sure you behave for your uncles and don’t stay up all night tonight.”

“I won’t.” Chloe promised as she gave him a hug. “You’ll be coming home on Wednesday?”

“Yes, we’ll be home late but we’ll be there.”

“Okay. Drive safely and don’t let Daddy stop at McDonald’s. He’s in training.”

“I’ll make sure to do that.”

Ian watched as she got in the taxi next to Pieter and waved as the vehicle pulled away. He checked his watch as he yawned and shook his head. Five was way too early in the morning for him but hopefully, Chloe would make it back to Philly in time for her first class. Since Michael had had several hours off the night before, they’d chosen to let Chloe return this morning and she was tickled at the thought of telling her friends she’d commuted in from D.C. for class.

He turned and went back into the hotel, stopping at the lobby to get two cups of coffee and returned to the suite on the second floor to give Gail a chance to shower and dress. He carefully opened the door and slipped in. Gail was half asleep still as she sat on the sofa and turned to put her finger to her lips when she noticed him.

“Hey.”

“Hi. Still asleep?”

“Yes.”

“Coffee?”

“Bless you. What are our plans for the day?”

“I think we’re staying in until the semis although I might take the boys for a walk later. Do you want to take the day off? The parents and I can handle things.”

“How about I just do the morning? I’ve been having fun watching the swimming.”

“Okay with me. You know you can still come to the meet.”

“Oh I know but I’d be sitting right next to you and you think I couldn’t help?”

“All right. I’ll see you around lunch time?”

“As long as it’s not Denny’s.” Gail said as she stood up. “My stomach is still recovering.”

“Too much information, Gail.”

Gail ruffled his hair and let herself out quietly. Ian got up and went into the bedroom to check the boys in their cribs. They were all still sleeping away, Harry snoring just a tiny bit and Ian crept back out. Well, he couldn’t turn on the TV so he flipped open his laptop and started the 3-D kitchen designer program while he put on a pot of coffee in the kitchenette. Might as well be productive since he was already up.

&&&

June 6, 2012 College Park, MD

Miles made it to the conference room fifteen minutes early, knowing that Bob hated it when people were late for anything. He obviously wasn’t the only one who knew that because there were plenty of other swimmers already there and staking out their seats.

Looking around, Miles spotted Larsen Jensen sitting a few seats in on the third row and plopped down next to him. “Hey.”

“Hey. Have you seen Michael?”

“No. I saw him earlier at the pool but he left before lunch. Why?”

“Bob was looking for him.”

“Oh.”

They both stopped talking when Bob and the rest of the coaches entered, eight minutes ahead of schedule and went to the front of the room, talking amongst themselves and clearly not ready to begin. Over the next few minutes, more swimmers entered and quickly found seats as the coaches got more organized. Miles noticed Bob’s eyes sweeping the room and wondered where the heck Michael was.

At twelve fifty eight, the door opened and Michael came in. It took Miles a minute to realize what Michael was holding and heard the whispers sweep the room as the rest of the swimmers realized it too.

“God, he brought a kid?”

Miles tried to see who’d said it out loud but Bob seemed unperturbed by the extra body in the room and merely waited for Michael to find a seat in the second row and get settled.

“Let’s get started, ladies and gentlemen…”

Fifteen minutes later while one of the other coaches was speaking, Miles couldn’t help peeking over at Michael and the surprisingly quiet baby. Well, not so surprising since the kid seemed to be sleeping like a rock, all sprawled out in Michael’s lap. Then again, as Miles was watched, the baby lifted his head and yawned, kicking his feet so maybe he was just really well behaved.

Miles wasn’t usually one to go all crazy over kids, especially the small smelly ones but even he had to admit the boy was as cute as a button. His fiancée was already talking children and he’d been a bit leery but if Michael could do it with five kids maybe having one wouldn’t be so bad.

“Foreman!”

Startled, Mile jumped and looked forward again noticing that everyone had started clapping. “Yes sir?”

“Get up here and say a few words as Team Captain.”

“What?”

“Miles, dude. Go on.” Larsen said, giving him a push.

Wow. Team Captain? Miles had no idea how that had happened; he was sure that Michael was going to get it. He stumbled out of the aisle and up to the podium, beyond shocked and the first thing he saw was the big grin on Michael’s face. Aw man.

&&

“Congratulations, Miles. Couldn’t have gone to a better man.” Michael said after the meeting as he juggled the now wide awake child who was busy playing with the buttons on Michael’s shirt.

The room had emptied out considerably as people left to go home and either pack for training camp or wait for the next Games.

“Thanks. I think I’m still in shock; I thought for sure you’d get it.”

“No way. Too many of the younger guys think I’m stuck up or something.” Michael said easily, not appearing concerned in the least.

“No, you scare the crap out of them. I’ve spent the last six months assuring most of them that you are retiring and they’ll all get their shot at the top.” Bob said from behind Miles. “Now hand over the baby.”

“Okay but Robbie’s feeling a little clingy today so don’t be surprised if he isn’t happy.” Michael said, following instructions.

Robbie didn’t look to sure about this but Miles had a hard time not laughing when Bob Bowman, the tough guy turned into a big bucket of goo right before his eyes.

“Hello Robert. Yes, I’m your Uncle Bob. Did your daddy tell you that you were named after me? Yes you were.” Bob said as he sat down and put the boy on his lap. “You are the cutest thing and you’ve grown so much.

Robbie still didn’t look happy but calmed down when Michael gave him a bottle.

“So how are Gail and Ian, Michael?” Bob asked.

“Gail will be fine. Six or seven stitches and a couple of weeks and her finger will be as good as new. Ian’s got a cut on the side of his foot but it’s a good thing he was wearing shoes or he could have gotten skewered. He was still debating with the ER doc on whether he needed stitches or not when I left.”

“Ah. You know from what you told me when you ran out of there this morning; I thought Ian and Gail had gotten into a knife fight or something.”

Michael chortled a little, “Ian’s tough but I’d put my money on Gail. Mom said she didn’t even flinch. Just grabbed a napkin for her thumb and called 911 on Ian’s cell phone. She also wouldn’t let anyone remove the knife until after they got X-rays which was damn smart of her.”

“Were they in an accident?” Miles asked.

“They were having lunch and Gail saw Harry reaching for Ken’s steak knife. She reached over to move it out of the way and got slashed right across her thumb. She dropped the knife and it ended up in Ian’s foot. Well, stuck in his shoe anyway. Good thing the parents were there because Ian has this thing about blood and sort of panicked which panicked the boys. Dad said Ian didn’t even know about his foot because he was so busy not looking at Gail’s finger.”

“Sounds like fun.” Miles commented.

“Oh it’s always fun when the Thorpe-Phelps circus comes to town.”

“And you ended up with Robbie for the day?” Bob asked as he made Robbie a little more comfortable.

“Yeah well he wouldn’t let go of me once I got there and I didn’t want to leave him behind. Harry, Liam and Jamey were okay with the grandparents but Robbie’s very bonded to Ian and he was traumatized.”

“Hey no need to get defensive, Michael. Did I say anything when you came in? Robbie, straighten your dad out for me.”

“Dad!”

“There’s a good boy. Can you say ‘Bob’?”

“Ba.”

“Way to go! You must be the most talented baby in the world.”

“I think you’re prejudiced, Bob.” Michael said, sitting back and stretching his legs out.

“Um. Can I hold him?” Miles asked.

“If he’ll go to you, sure. Here, let’s try letting him do it on his own, that usually goes better.” Michael said he reached out. Bob looked a little put out at how fast Robbie left but watched when Michael set the boy on his feet, holding to his hands. “Miles sit down and put your hands out.”

Miles did so, putting down his bag and leaning forward a bit. “He’ll just come over?”

“He should. He likes doing it.”

Sure enough Robbie got a big grin and let go of one of Michael’s hands to stretch over and take Miles’ hand. He seemed to hang for a minute then let go of Michael’s other hand and grabbed on to Miles and smile up at the strange man. Then he seemed to notice Bob’s hand and reached over for that.

“It’s like watching someone on the monkey bars.” Miles said.

“Yeah, you should see him in the nursery. We’ve got the cribs set up in a sort of arch and he’s goes back and forth every morning.”

“I saw them all together the other day.” Miles commented as Robbie started another loop. “How do you tell them apart?”

“Well Ian’s the one who decided we’d never dress them alike. It makes it too hard to keep track of who is who. Everyone in the house can tell them apart because we’re with them all the time; they just look different to us.”

“How’s Chloe, Michael?”

“She’s excited about finishing fourth grade. Next year she gets to move to the middle school although she’s not too thrilled about wearing a uniform. She’s also getting ready for her first meets this summer.”

“They’re on Tuesdays and Thursdays, right?” Bob asked, taking out his date book.

“Yeah, starting on June twenty sixth except for the bye on July tenth. They start at six so I should be back before curfew.”

“That’s good. I should be able to make the one on the twelfth. That’s the one at Bensalem?”

“Yeah. Um, Bob? It’s nice of you to want to see Chloe swim but-”

“Oh, I’m not doing it for you. I’m scouting someone who could be on my next Olympic team.” Bob gave Robbie a kiss on the forehead and guided him over to a speechless Michael before standing up. “See you on Monday, nine am sharp.” Bob gave them a cheery wave and moseyed off.

“Wow. Is she really that good?” Miles asked.

“I- I have no idea. I’m her dad, of course I think she’s good.”

“So you don’t think you can impartially judge her?”

Michael sighed and picked up Robbie. “I know she’s got good form and she’s already moved up a team since she started a couple of months ago. She loves to swim but competitive swimming is a whole other world. I just don’t want her to wake up one day and wonder, you know?”

“Oh I know. I used to spend the first hour of every practice wondering why I bothered. My friends were still in bed; they got to stay up late and go to parties. Yeah we all make sacrifices but the good stuff that comes from swimming outweighs it, don’t you think?”

“Since I’ve holding one of the benefits, I agree but I’m all sorts of conflicted. What if Chloe never gets to the top? What if she’s always compared to me?”

“She’d get that even if she wasn’t swimming. People would just wonder why not.”

“You’re right. Guess that’s why you’re the team captain.”

“Ha ha. Really, why didn’t you get it?”

“Bob asked if I was interested and I told him I wasn’t but that I’d vote for you in a heartbeat. You know everyone, you’re respected and you’re a good leader.”

“Well, thanks. I’m just worried that I screw up or something.”

“You won’t.” Michael said sincerely.

“Um. While we’re alone, can we talk about the trial, the criminal one?”

Michael looked at him with surprise. “Sure.”

“I guess you didn’t hear that they want me to testify.”

“Who does?”

“The prosecutor. They’re calling me as a witness about what happened in San Diego.”

“Well no, I didn’t know that.” Michael said, suddenly feeling a little sick.

“I’m going in for a deposition next week. I just wanted you to know in case you heard something.”

“You had to hire a lawyer?”

“Yeah, my brother-in-law is a family services lawyer and he hooked me up with a friend of his who does criminal law. Don’t worry; it didn’t cost anything aside from buying Paul and Kyle dinner.”

“Miles, I’m so sorry. I-”

“What are you sorry for? You didn’t cause this; if anyone should be sorry it’s Steve.”

“But if I hadn’t invited you to my room-”

“What? Michael, we always hung out in each other’s rooms if we weren’t sharing anyway. We’re friends and that’s what friends do. Yeah, I’m not looking forward to testifying if I have to but it’s not your fault. I only wish I’d had a shovel in San Diego and maybe Ian and that poor driver wouldn’t have been hurt. Testifying is nothing compared to almost losing your sight or losing your livelihood. Stop blaming yourself.”

“But your training-”

“No I’ve already working my schedule to account for it.” Miles said firmly then grinned. “Hey, listen to me and heed my words. I am the team captain!”

“Miles, I-. I don’t.” Michael shook his head, biting his lip for a second then took a deep breath. “Okay. I’m going to listen to the team captain and do as he says.”

“Good. Woo. I can feel the power of my position. I’m a bit giddy.” Miles said as he swooned comically.

“Well captain, how good are you at changing diapers?”

&&

Ian showed up a half hour later, hopping a little due to the wooden shoe he was wearing. “Hello. I’ve been released from the evil clutches of the medical community and I want to go home.”

“Hey! I’m part of the medical community.” Michael protested.

“I know but I like your evil clutches. Robbie’s asleep?”

“Yep. Miles wore him out. No stitches?”

“Not a one but I’ll let you change the bandages later if you ask nicely.” Ian said with a wiggle of his eyebrows before turning to the other adult in the room. “Good to see you again, Miles. How’s being captain working out for you?”

“How did you find out?” Miles asked suspiciously.

“Bob’s skulking around in the lobby and told me. He also accused me of trying to use a minor to spy for Australia.”

Michael hitched the diaper bag up on his shoulder and picked up Robbie. “That’s ridiculous. You’d totally use Chloe for something like that.”

“That’s what I told him. The boys are smart but it’s going to be a few years before they can reliably relay that kind of information. Miles, do you need a ride to the airport? We’re taking Bob to BWI.”

“Uh sure. I need to go get my bags.”

“Go on then. We’re parked out front and you can’t miss us.”

“Okay, I’ll see you in a few.”

Michael and Ian slowly followed the quickly moving Miles out of the room and out towards the lobby.

“Mind if we stop somewhere for food? I’m starving.”

“I figured you might be since you missed lunch. Everyone else is down the street at the diner since we all missed lunch too and Debs said she’d get us something to go.”

“Okay. How’s your foot?” Michael asked.

“It stings a little and I feel like Frankenstein.”

“How long do you have to wear the shoe?”

“Until we get home and I can find my thongs. Ah, there’s Bob.”

“Um, Ian? Please don’t ever mention the words ‘Bob’ and ‘thong’ together.”

“Duly noted.”

Two hours later:

“Michael, get in the left lane when you have a chance.”

“Gotta pee?”

“Yes and this is the rest stop with Cinnabon is it not?”

“It is indeed. You mean…?”

“Yes, we’re stopping and you’re buying some. We’ve all had a rough day and although I normally don’t advocate using food in these situations, you’re looking a wee bit stressed.”

“I am. They’ve asked Miles to testify.” Michael said as he pulled into the rest stop.

“I see.” Ian said neutrally. “Do you want to talk about it now or after we get home?”

“Later. Want help getting out?”

“No thanks.” Ian swung around in his seat to look into the back while Michael found a parking spot. “Gail? Do you need to go in?”

“I can wait so we don’t have to unload the boys.”

“Are Mum and Dad still asleep?”

“Yes. I guess running after Liam more exhausting than they expected.”

“They had Liam? No wonder they’re exhausted. We’ll be right back.”

Later that night:

“You want another pillow for your foot?”

“I’m fine, thank you.”

“Ice?”

“Michael, stop dithering around and get into bed. We don’t have to talk if that’s what’s got you in a tizzy.”

Michael lay down but didn’t snuggle up as usual. “I’m not in a tizzy; I’m thinking.”

“About Miles having to testify?”

“Yeah. He said he was fine with it but he’s got a shot at three medals and now his training is going to get screwed up and-”

“Whoa, wait a second. Did Miles say it would affect his training?”

“Well no, he said he’d accounted for it but-”

“Doesn’t Miles know what he’s capable of?”

“Yes but-”

“This is not your fault, Michael. You’ve done noth-” Ian stopped talking when Michael leaned over and kissed the stuffing out of him. He felt a little dizzy by the time Michael drew away and couldn’t help touching his lips with his fingers, noticing they were a little puffy. “What was that for?”

“People have been interrupting me all day so it’s only fair that I get interrupt someone too.”

“I see. Um. What were you going to say?”

“Oh. That I know Miles is an adult and I’m not going to feel guilty about Steve anymore. I was going through this thing you see.” Michael said as he sat up and leaned against the pillows. “I’m a doctor but I picked up a shovel and did grievous bodily harm to a human being. I was having trouble dealing with that because I’m not supposed to hurt people. I’m still not okay with it totally but I’ve realized that he really didn’t give me a choice. If it was just him and me, I would have run away but he brought you into it and he threatened Chloe. That was where he crossed the line.”

“Oh. Um. That’s not what I expected you to say.”

“I know but that’s what I was thinking about.”

“But you are worried about Miles?”

“I am but not because I think he can’t handle the training aspect. We’ve been in court; we know what to expect. We know it won’t be pretty but we’ve done it before. He’s only seen TV shows or Court TV and it’s nothing like that.”

Ian ran his hand through his hair pensively, “I didn’t think about that.”

“He’s going to be my roommate at Penn so I’m planning on talking to him about it.”

“That’s a good idea. Maybe you could bring him out for dinner on a free night and we’ll both talk to him.”

“Thanks baby. Are you ready for bed now?”

“No.”

“No?”

“Michael, you can’t kiss me like that and expect me to just roll over and fall asleep!”

“But you’re injured.”

“That’s even more a reason. I’m wounded and you have to kiss it and make it better.”

“I love you Ian but I’m not kissing your foot. That’s your thing.”

“I was hoping for something a little higher; maybe three and a half feet?”

“Mr. Thorpe, I don’t know what you’ve heard but I’m not that kind of guy.” Michael said as he slid down into bed and pulled the sheets up primly to his chin.

Ian grinned and walked his fingers up the sheet. “You’re not? But you were that kind of guy a couple of nights ago.”

“Uh. I need to wash my hair?”

“You did that earlier.” Ian said as he leaned towards Michael oh so slowly.

“I have homework?”

“You graduated.”

“I-mumph.” Michael went silent as his lips were captured and his arms were filled with a horny Australian.
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The Sweet Life