Adult-FanFiction.org : Celebrity

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
- 37
- 38
- 39
Interlude One ~ Sunday August 5, 2012

Ian woke up for the first time in several days with a warm body beside him. Unfortunately he could tell from the size of said body and the breathy giggles that were coming from it that it wasn’t the body he wanted. Well, it was really the little feet kicking him in the butt that gave it away. He turned over and came face to face with Jamey who was busy trying to squirm away from Michael’s gently tickling fingers. He watched for a minute as his husband and son played and noticed that Jamey was wearing a sleeper that he hadn’t been wearing last night.

“Good morning Love and Little Love.”

Michael looked up with a smile and leaned over Jamey to give him a quick kiss. “Hi Baby. I figured we’d wake you up.”

“What time is it and why did you change Jamey?”

“It’s almost seven and Jamey had major poopage this morning; good thing you weren’t awake for it because it was bad. He did the ‘I’m not quite done yet’ trick on me too so we had to take a shower.”

Ian wrinkled his nose as he was well familiar with that maneuver. “Ah I’m glad I missed it. Are the other boys up?”

“They will be in a couple of minutes I think. Robbie and Liam have been babbling at each other for a while. Can you keep an eye on the sprout here while I go in and check on them?”

“I suppose so but I could get up you know.”

“Nah, you’ve had the early shift for quite a while so I’ll take this one.”

Ian watched as Michael sprang up and walked into the next room before looking down at Jamey. “Hello there.”

Jamey blinked and stuck his finger in his mouth before reaching out and poking Ian. “Pa.”

“That’s me. Have you been a good boy?” Ian asked as he sat up and pulled Jamey into his lap.

“Poo.”

“So I hear.”

&&

Michael kissed them all goodbye as they parted at one of the subway stops. He’d much rather be going to watch trampoline with the family then doing interviews but he’d already committed to them before he heard about today’s plans. They were even taking a water taxi! It was so unfair.

He put a little something extra into his kissing when he got to Ian and waved as he went upstairs and they continued out to Brooklyn. He stopped himself from slumping and trudging but it was a near thing.

The International Broadcast Center was brimming with people and he was stopped many times to sign autographs and take pictures before finally making his way to the right area. What followed was the sort of mind numbing routine he’d gotten used to the last few years. Between make up, lighting and prep the interviews were sort of a let down since the interviewers didn’t really ask anything that hadn’t been asked before but oh well. Such was life.

Afterwards, he wiped the gunk off and tried to figure out when he and Ian could have some private time. As he skipped out of the building, he checked his watch and realized he could probably beat everyone home and get a start on lunch. That might give them an hour or two or even better, they could feed the kids and go out by themselves later. That sounded like a great plan.

He made a quick stop to check out the restaurant down the street and hurried home. Lunch for the boys was a matter of getting the right combination of jars out of the cupboard and then threw together some tuna fish salad for sandwiches, sliced and diced some veggies and pulled out the last melons to cut up for dessert.

It was only eleven thirty by the time everything was ready so he dashed upstairs and straightened up their room and did a quick sweep for laundry before loading the washer up, sweeping the kitchen and picking up the toys in the living room.

“Michael, are you home?” Ian yelled from downstairs.

Instead of answering Michael trotted down the next level ending up with a bounce in front of Ian. “You’re back!”

“So we are. You’ve been busy I see.” Ian said, nodding at the kitchen counter.

“Yeah but you’re not allowed to have any.”

“I’m not?”

“Nope, we have a lunch date. We’re expected down at Fresh in an hour or so or once the boys are napping.”

“Well let’s get those babies fed, shall we?”

&&

They walked the short distance back to the house after lunch, holding hands and bumping shoulders feeling a little reconnected to each other just from the time they’d spent in the restaurant.

“Hey baby, do you really want to see the diving tonight?”

“Well I suppose I could skip it. What other activity did you have in mind?”

“I thought we could offer our tickets to Gail and Sheila and stay home with the boys tonight.”

“Hm. I think I like that idea.” Ian said, leering a bit. “We haven’t been alone for over a week.”

“I know. Uh, would you mind if we just snuggled on the couch and watched a movie though? I’m really tired.”

Ian stopped and turned to look at his husband, “You haven’t been sleeping well again.”

“No not really. My room at the Village was okay but I just can’t sleep well if you’re not there.”

“Ah, well you know I love snuggling with you so we’ll make an early night of it.”

&&

Ian checked the water in the bath and turned it off; deciding that four inches of water was plenty. It was warm but not too warm and he went into the master bedroom where Michael was getting the boys undressed. Ian leaned down and snagged Harry who was already naked and trying to get under the bed.

“Harry, it’s a platform bed. There’s no room under there. Let’s go get a bath.”

“Baf!” All four boys cried.

In two minutes, there were four little bodies in the water splashing and squirming around while Ian and Michael sat on the edges. They gave the boys some time to play around before pulling out the baby shampoo and soap. Ten minutes later the boys were out, dried and in fresh diapers and jammies.

It was still a little early for bedtime so they piled onto the bed while Ian read them a story and Michael rubbed backs and feet. By eight, the boys were sleeping soundly in their cribs off the master bedroom and Ian had cued up a movie he’d wanted to see. Michael joined him a few minutes later with popcorn, two bowls of ice cream, strawberry Swizzlers and iced coffees on a tray.

“Where did you get ice cream?” Ian asked as he took one of the bowls

“I bought when I got home before lunch and hid it in the freezer.” Michael answered as he put the tray down and started taking off his clothes. “Why aren’t you naked?”

“Oh? This is a naked movie event? I thought we were just going to snuggle.”

“Naked snuggling is much better than clothed, don’t you think?”

Ian quickly set his bowl aside and carefully got up, pulling off his boxer briefs and t-shirt. “So it is.”

A moment or two later they were happily ensconced under the sheet with the movie starting and their spoons in hand. Forty minutes later, Ian discovered that Michael was sound asleep with a half chewed Swizzler in his mouth and in a rather uncomfortable looking position.

Ian paused the DVD and slid out of bed, gathering the debris from the snack on the tray. He pulled his boxer briefs back on and ran the dishes down to the kitchen. He rinsed them quickly, put them in the dishwasher and grabbed a bottle of water out of the fridge before returning upstairs.

The boys were still asleep so he slid his undies off and pulled Michael down a bit so he was in a better position before rejoining him. The licorice was placed on the nightstand and he started the movie again, not surprised when Michael seemed to ooze across the bed and glom into his side, using Ian’s left right side as his pillow. Ian brushed a hand over Michael’s hair and turned the movie back on musing over the excitement of married life.

&&

Monday August 6, 2012

Michael ran after Liam who was trying very hard to figure out how to get out of the restaurant and run amok on the rest of the ship. The doors pushed in so Liam wasn’t having much luck but Michael could see the wheels starting to turn.

“Liam, want to go find Uncle Grant?”

“No.” Liam said, not bothering to look up. Michael saw a waiter heading for the door and knew the gig was almost up so he picked up Liam before he either got whacked in the head or learned the secret of the doors.

“Well, I think we need to get some carrots.”

“Rots?”

“That’s right, carrots.”

As he snagged a couple of carrot sticks, he spotted Ian sitting with Markus and Shaun. Emily, Mark and Shaun’s daughter was holding Robbie and saying something that really seemed to tickle Ian. Hm. Mark and Shaun didn’t look so thrilled but Ian just snatched up Robbie and walked away, laughing hysterically.

Okay, so he was going to have to avoid the Rogan-Phillips for the rest of his life if the look on Shaun’s face was any indication. He skated around the outskirts of the party and met up with Ian who was heading for the bathroom with Robbie.

“What’s up?”

Ian snickered and picked up their diaper bag. “Emily wanted to know how the stork carried four babies.”

“No way! They told her the stork brought babies?”

“I have no idea who told her but I’m sure it’s not a subject they wanted to get into tonight. Robbie needs a change.”

“I’ll take him if you’ll trade for Liam.”

Ian thought it over for a moment. “Deal. Don’t forget we need to leave in a half hour if we’re going to the cycling tonight.”

“We’ll be ready.”

&&

Later that night Michael snaked his arms around Ian’s waist and snuffed his nose in Ian’s nape. “You smell so good.”

“Thank you love.” Ian replied as he laced his fingers through Michael’s. He yawned and eased back into Michael’s embrace. “The party was fun, wasn’t it?”

“Yeah. It’s a shame we don’t get to see everyone more often but then I guess Mark and Shaun are happy just the way things are. Did you know Mark was gay back then?”

Ian froze slightly and then tried to relax. “Uh. Yes.”

“Ah. So you and he got together at one point?”

“Um. Yes.”

Michael pulled at Ian until Ian was on his back and Michael could see his face. “Baby, I know you’ve had other lovers. It doesn’t bother me, I was just curious.”

Ian let out a sigh of relief. “Well I knew that but I just wasn’t expecting you to ask right at that moment so I was a bit unnerved.”

“Don’t worry.” Michael said giving Ian a little kiss. “So was it hot, being with him?”

Thinking about it for a minute, Ian shrugged. “I guess it was okay. We’d had a lot to drink I think and it’s a little fuzzy.”

“So you’d never consider swapping with them? Shaun is pretty hot.”

Ian started to answer then sat up, dislodging Michael. “Swap? Like swapping partners? Michael, what the hell are you are saying?”

He tried to keep his voice down since the boys were sleeping nearby but he was a little ticked off. He never expected Michael to suggest anything like- wait a minute. He looked down at Michael who was grinning mischievously.

“You are in so much trouble, Mr. Phelps.”

Michael stretched out in a manner that could only be described as seductive and he fluttered his eyelashes. “Oh I am Mr. Thorpe?”

Ian swooped down and attacked on three fronts; he pinned Michael down and ran his hands over Michael’s nipples while licking his tongue across Michael’s lips. Within three minutes he’d flipped Michael over and was slicking himself up.

Michael put up a pro forma struggle but had joyfully gone along with Ian’s plan and was now pulling a pillow over and shoving it under his hips. “What’s taking you so long?”

Briefly, Ian considered rolling over and feigning sleep just to pay Michael back for saying Shaun was hot but he looked down at the long taut body spread out below him and figured revenge could wait. He pulled his hips back and plunged in, sprawling himself over Michael’s back and sliding his left hand under Michael’s stomach.

“Oh god, Ian. Oh yes. Please baby.”

Ian drew back and plunged in again, pulling Michael up onto his knees to get a better angle. After several more thrusts, he forgot he was a little ticked and just enjoyed making love to Michael again. At some point he felt the need to see more of Michael and drew back, quickly pulling Michael over onto his back and dove in between his legs.

Michael immediately wrapped his legs around Ian’s waist and pulled Ian’s head down to exchange lush sloppy kisses. His hands ran down Ian’s back and then latched onto Ian’s ass. “Come on, Ian go harder.”

“Michael- oh.” Ian felt his eyes roll back when Michael’s anus seemed to twitch around him. “Jesus! Where the hell did you learn that?”

Smiling smugly, Michael did it again. “I was lonely and I had a laptop. I found this website about how to exercise certain parts so I tried it out.”

Ian groaned and knew he was fast losing control of this situation, if he ever had it in the first place. To distract his naughty man, he pulled back and surged in and out not giving Michael time to grip him again. Soon they were both striving together and against each other, reaching their peaks within a few moments of each other.

They snuggled and spent a while catching their breath when Ian suddenly tweaked Michael’s nipple.

“Hey!”

“That’s for the swapping thing. I thought you were serious for a minute there.”

Michael stretched languidly and wrapped his arms back around Ian. “No way. I’m way too greedy to share you with anyone.”

“So that whole thing about Shaun being hot was not true?” Ian asked suspiciously.

“Oh he’s hot but you’re the only one for me.”

While Ian turned that over in his head, Michael rolled away and strolled into the bathroom, stopping to peek in on the boys’ alcove on the way. Ian joined him a minute later in the shower.

“So you do think he’s hot.”

“You are definitely hotter and even if I was single, he’d be eye candy not relationship material. Get your hair wet and I’ll shampoo you.”

Ian did as he was told and sighed when Michael’s fingers massaged through his scalp. “Why is he just eye candy?”

“Well he’s nice and all but he’s not my type. He’s kind of short really.”

“He’s not that short. He’s at least six foot.”

“Yeah but I like not having to lean down to kiss you.” Michael said, proving it.

“Ah. So it’s just his height?”

“Nah. He doesn’t have your nice shoulders and your wide chest and I’ll bet he doesn’t have this tight tummy not to mention your very sexy ass.” Michael replied, running his hands over each body part. “Most of all his name isn’t Ian Thorpe therefore he’s merely eye candy to me.”

They finally got out of the shower ten minutes later after a nice snog and made their way back to the bedroom. The sheets were changed and they were back in bed, both groaning a little when they realized they only had five hours before the alarm went off.

After a little maneuvering, they were in their favorite spooning position and Michael sighed happily as his nose found just the right spot on Ian’s neck. “You smell so good.”

Ian snorted. “I think that’s where we started this evening’s events.”

“So it was and if we weren’t getting up so early I wouldn’t say no to a repeat. I love you Ian.”

“I love you too Michael.”

&&

Tuesday August 7, 2012

Ian yawned as the limo drove north and looked over at Chloe who was busy trying to get Harry’s cowlick to stay down. He looked over at Michael and they shared a look filled with amusement. Chloe had been fussing over her brothers all morning to the point where she’d vetoed Ian and Michael’s outfit choices for them.

“Michael love, we’ve got almost four weeks before school starts; where should we go on vacation?”

“Vacation? Um, I thought we were staying home?”

“You don’t want to go to the beach this year? I thought your parents were heading for Ocean City?”

“They are but I was sort of looking forward to staying home.” Michael said, emphasizing the last word a little.

“Ah. Since you haven’t really been home.”

“No I haven’t. But maybe we could take a couple of day trips as a compromise?” Michael asked with a hopeful tone.

Ian tapped a finger on his lips. “Well that would work. What did you have in mind?”

“We could take a drive around Dutch country, visit Longwood Gardens, Winterthur and Nemours, tour Chaddsford Winery, the potato chip factory and-.”

“I see you’ve put a lot of thought into this.”

“Not really. Those were all places I’ve wanted to go to since we moved here but training and school got in the way. We could do them now though.”

“We could indeed.”

&&

Michael pushed the stroller slowly, giving Jamey and Harry plenty of time to take in the riotous blooms in the garden space nearby. Ian drew up next to him with the other stroller containing Robbie and Liam. Chloe had run ahead with Grant and Pieter to the next playground and their parents were somewhere behind them walking leisurely to work off their picnic lunch.

“They really love flowers.” Michael commented.

“Yes they do. I think it’s all the colors. How do you feel about putting in a veg patch out back for us and the kids? I want to grow a few things and the boys will probably like having something to dig around in.”

“Sounds like a plan. Um, you know it’s a little late in the year for growing anything.”

“Oh I know but I could probably get a couple of beds dressed in time for a few winter crops.”

“Okay, Mr. Gardener’s Son. I’m going to expose my total ignorance on this subject and ask what kind of crops grow in the winter.”

“Broccoli, cabbage, kale, radishes, asparagus, carrots and beets are a few.” Ian spouted off with a grin.

“Oh yum. Asparagus orzo with parmesan cheese!” Michael exclaimed as they both started pushing again.

Ian laughed, “Trust you to immediately think of food although I admit that does sound good. Have you ever made that?”

“No but I saw a great recipe online that looked really easy. I now have no objections to a veggie garden and I’ll even help if you tell me what to do.”

“Glad to hear it. You know, I just thought of something. We can go sledding or tubing this winter.”

Michael stopped and looked at Ian. “That would be totally awesome. Hee! I just had a great idea for Halloween costumes for the boys.”

“We’re taking them trick or treating?”

“Just on our block. What do you think of Abominable Snow boys? Wouldn’t that be a cool picture?”

“Let me get this straight. You want to dress our sons, our precious sons, in furry costumes?”

“Oh I guess that’s not a great idea?”

“I didn’t say that.”

“You implied it.”

“Well let me think about it for a while. You aren’t going to add gory teeth or anything scary, are you?”

“No way. I was thinking soft fake fur with these furry slippers I saw online. They’d be warm at least.”

“You’re planning on sewing these yourself?”

“I think I could take a shot at it. Margaret would probably help and I want to learn to use the sewing machine your cousins gave me for more than hemming.”

“Michael, you know that sewing machine was meant to be an ironic gift.”

“Sure I do. Traditional gift for Thorpe brides and all but I’m not going to just let it sit there. That would be a waste and it has all these cool functions like one step button holes and it hooks up to a computer to do embroidery.”

“Did you take the manual with you to training camp?” Ian asked suspiciously.

“Yeah, camp was really boring. Besides, you’re always saying that it’s hard to find nice clothes for the boys that aren’t too cutesy or that don’t have cartoon character logos.”

“You’re seriously considering making clothing for the boys?”

“I don’t know if I can learn to sew that well but I can try. Don’t worry; I was planning to ask you to design for me.”

“You were?”

“Sure. You have a great eye and you have a mental list of what you hate in kids clothes.”

“I do?” Ian asked as they paused again so the boys could bird watch at the pond.

“Yep. You hate advertising logos, rough seams, the fact that the standard kid seems to have legs two inches shorter than the boys do, shirts that have those weird necklines, strange materials that show every stain no matter how much you wash them. Should I go on?”

“No. I think you’ve made your point. I had no idea I was that picky.”

“You are but it’s one of the things I love about you. You want the boys to be well dressed but you also want them to have practical clothing. And fabric shopping could be fun.”

Ian gave Michael a look. “You think you’re tempting me with shopping, don’t you?”

“Yep and it’s so working too.”

&&

They joined Chloe, Grant and Pieter on the grass under some trees and let the boys out of their strollers, going into watch mode when they all immediately started crawling in different directions.

Once they were herded back into the same general area, Grant looked up from where he was helping Harry walk around in circles. “You know, I think Harry’s going to walk first.”

“No way! It’ll definitely be Robbie.” Michael said quickly.

“You’re both wrong. Jamey is the man.” Pieter proclaimed. “He’s almost put it together.”

Ian looked at Liam who was standing all by himself rocking slightly and instantly proposed a small wager. Chloe just rolled her eyes at them since she thought they were all silly and went to join her grandparents at the nearby benches.

&&

Wednesday August 8, 2012

“I still can’t believe I did that.”

“Michael stop beating yourself up over it. We’ve all done it.” Ian said calmly as he sipped his iced tea and looked over the pictures that Chris had emailed. “Can you believe this house?”

Michael leaned over and took a peek. “Wow. That’s some view.”

“And look at this kitchen.” Ian said as he scrolled down the page. “God, I love those restaurant style refrigerators.”

“Speaking of kitchens, are we still planning to renovate ours?”

“Yes we are. Would you mind that style of fridge?”

“It doesn’t have ice making and wouldn’t things get lost in the back?”

“Hm. You’re right. I wonder if they make them less deep.”

“I like being able to see everything but that means we’d have to keep it neat and the doors clean.”

“So you’re basically saying you don’t like this style?”

“No, I’m saying it has drawbacks. I think they make them with solid doors and we’d have to have a freezer unit too. That might be a good idea since we’ll have four or more teenagers in a few years.”

“Four or more? Chloe will be over twenty by the time – oh. You’re talking more babies.”

“Yeah.”

“You’d really be okay with having another?”

“Sure. I was only worried about having the boys because of the timing and my training.”

“Oh.”

“What? You thought you’d have to talk me into it?”

“Well yes.”

“Now you know differently.”

“Oh. So if I said let’s start the process tomorrow, you’d be okay with that?” Ian asked.

“Yep.” Michael said serenely. “Although that means we’d have five or more bottoms to diaper.”

“Oh.” Ian said sounding less than happy about that. “But you’d do it anyway?”

“Yep. Diapers don’t bother me.”

“They don’t bother me either.”

Michael merely snorted at that. “Oh yes they do. You change them anyway but you are always horrified.”

“Well those boys produce some really heinous stuff.” Ian said defensively.

“Tell me about it. I’m surprised the government doesn’t sneak in and steal their diapers for weapons but it doesn’t stop you from doing it. I always wanted a lot of kids but I always worried about the person I would raise them with. I never wanted to risk putting my kids through a divorce. That’s not something I worry about with you.”

“Really? Even when things weren’t going so well with us?”

“No because we worked through them together. I think those episodes made our relationship stronger actually.”

Ian reached over and took Michael’s hand. “Really?”

“Yes. We had some stumbling blocks but I know that I love you and that you love me.”

“I do love you, Michael. More every day.”

“Me too.”

Any romantic kiss that might have followed that was interrupted when a couple of the boys started crying. Both men looked up to see a wet cat streaking for the stairs, a sippy cup without a lid and all four boys with wet heads and shoulders.

“Oh geeze!” Michael exclaimed as they got up to deal with the aftermath. “What happened?”

“I’m not sure but I’m glad it’s a hot day.” Ian remarked as he grabbed a couple of napkins and tried to dry Liam.

&&

Ian jogged up the stairs and opened the door to the master bedroom floor quietly. They’d put the boys down an hour ago and he’d been busy writing his log when it occurred to him that aside from Michael and the boys, there was no one else home. Since he was not one to ever pass up an opportunity, he’d quickly emailed his short entry and shut down the computer.

He found Michael in the bathtub with some kind of green gook on his face, cotton pads over his eyes, some other kind of white stuff on his feet (which were out of the water), soft music playing on the stereo, a couple of lit candles and an ocean-like scent in the air.

Feeling a bit conflicted by the fact that Michael apparently had a skin care regime that he knew nothing about, Ian sat down on the edge of the tub and softly cleared his throat.

Michael started a little and fluttered a hand out. “Ian?”

“Yes it’s me. What are you doing?” Ian asked then watched in amusement the blush spread down from Michael’s forehead and down into the milky looking water.

“Um, my skin is a bit dry from all the swimming.”

“What’s the green stuff?”

“Avocado and yoghurt.”

“Is there something on the cotton pads?”

“Rose hip tea. It’s supposed to be good for under-eye bags.”

“And the feet?”

“Oatmeal, cornmeal, salt, lotion and aloe. It’s supposed to exfoliate.”

“You raided the kitchen for this?”

“Well yeah. I found a bunch of recipes on the internet and decided to try them out. The stuff on the counter is salt and buttermilk, for large pores.”

Despite his best intentions, Ian couldn’t help looking over at the bowl on counter. “Does it work? Wait, where do you have enlarged pores?”

“Right around my nose. I already did that part and it seems to tighten things up a bit. It’s supposed to be applied several times a week. I made extra of everything and I was going to invite you up for a mini-spa thing when you were done.”

“Well that makes me feel better. Can I go ahead and try it?”

“Of course but take a shower first. There’s a bowl of Oatmeal-Citrus Scrub in there and I’ll be done when you get out and we can do the full body masques.”

Shaking his head, Ian pulled his shirt over his head and took off his shorts. “Just how bored did you get at camp?”

“I asked Brenda to teach me how to knit. I think Miles has firmly joined the ‘Michael is so weird’ group.”

“You learned how to knit?” Ian asked, turning away from his perusal of the items on the counter.

“I need more work on my purling technique. I was going to try and knit you a scarf for your birthday but it’s really didn’t turn out well.”

“It’s the thought that counts, Michael.”

“Remember that when I show it to you.” Michael said as he damped his feet and started rubbing them. “Oh, this feels neat.”

Ian slipped into the shower and turned on the water, poking the mixture in the bowl as he stood under the spray. It looked weird but it smelled pleasantly of lemons and oranges so he picked some up and started scrubbing. Oh. Very nice and it didn’t seem as harsh as commercial preparations he’d used.

After trying out the buttermilk and the body masque, Michael helped Ian into a freshly drawn bath and slathered a fruity smelling stuff on his face.

“This doesn’t smell like avocados.”

“This is papaya, lime and honey. Softens the skin and removes dead cells.”

“Oh.”

Michael moved on to Ian’s feet and applied the mixture then put the avocado and yoghurt on Ian’s hands which tended to get dry. He set the timer and patted Ian’s shoulder.

“I’m going to check on the boys and I’ll be back with some drinks in a couple of minutes.”

“Okay.”

Ian heard Michael leave and relaxed back into the bath. His husband was certainly a man of many talents although Ian was a bit worried at how miserable Michael had seemed to be at training camp. He’d tried to visit several times a week and he’d expect Michael to be busy with well, training and all but obviously that wasn’t the case.

By eleven thirty they were snuggling in bed and Ian was feeling totally refreshed from the skin treatments when he broached the subject.

“Michael, should I have come down every day while you were at camp? It doesn’t sound like you were happy down there.”

“I wasn’t. I really missed you and the kids and I kept thinking that you were only right up the road. There were a couple of nights where I was tempted to chuck the whole thing and just come home to you.”

“I’m sorry love.” Ian said softly, stroking Michael’s back.

“Why are you sorry? I thought it was great that I wouldn’t be so far away but it ended up being sort of torturous. Bob said he felt bad about it but by the time I realized how bad it would be, it was too late.”

“When did you realize it?”

“At the end of the first week so it really was too late. It’s okay baby. It’s all over now and hey, I learned some stuff so it wasn’t a total loss. And no, you shouldn’t have come down everyday to answer your question. It wasn’t fun but it had a nice side benefit.”

“Which was?”

“It really emphasized how important my family is to me. Just don’t ask me about the sheep, okay?”

Ian opened his mouth and snapped it closed. “The sheep?”

“I told you not to ask but since I’m sure Miles is going to say something anyway, I’ll tell you all about my crazy idea to buy a farm in Australia far away from civilization and raise sheep.”

“Um. You don’t like sheep.”

“I know which is why it was a crazy idea. Hey, what are we doing tomorrow?”

“Modern Pentathlon but we’ve got to leave before the final event because you have an interview.”

“And what about Friday?”

“Volleyball in the morning and the Speedo party that night.”

“Why don’t we skip volleyball and go shopping? The boys are really busting out of their clothes and we could use some new stuff for winter.”

“We? You’re volunteering to go shopping with me?”

“Yeah. I might complain about how picky you are but I even missed that and it’ll be nice just spending some time on our own.”

“Well I’m not going to turn that down.”

&&

Friday August 10, 2012

Michael finished loading the dishwasher and turned to Ian who was busy with his lists at the kitchen table. He checked the time and made sure he had his wallet before tapping Ian on the shoulder.

“Are you ready to go, baby?”

“Oh. Yes. I think so.” Ian said, tucking his list in his pocket and standing up. “Should we say goodbye to the boys?”

“We already did when they went downstairs for playtime with Gail and Sheila.”

“Right. Okay, let’s go.”

Ian led the way out of the front door and turned left towards the subway when Michael caught his arm and led him to the right.

“Michael, the subway line we need is that way.”

“True but the limousine is over there.” Michael said, pointing down the street.

“You rented a limo?”

“Yep. That way you can shop all you want and we won’t have to carry all around with us.” Michael answered, nodding at the driver who was holding the door for them.

Ian got in the car and waited for Michael to get settled before pouncing on him. “You (kiss) are (kiss) an (kiss) absolute (kiss) lunatic.”

Michael kissed him back for a few minutes before drawing back with a smile. “You needed some spoiling.”

“I did?”

“Yep and I’m just the man to do it.”

&&

More money than either one of them wanted to think about later, Michael tipped the driver generously as the man had not only helped them unload the car but had also taken them to several great shops that Ian hadn’t been aware of.

“Thanks again, Robert.”

“My pleasure, Michael. I’ll be outside the hotel at eight thirty.”

Michael closed the front door after saying good bye and joined Ian in the kitchen as he was unpacking their booty. They’d gotten quite a haul and he smiled at the happy sounds Ian was making as he stroked a hand over a long wool coat.

“Did you have a good time, Ian?”

“I had a wonderful time, thank you Michael.”

“You’re welcome. You like that coat?”

“Oh yes. I’ve always wanted an Escorial wool coat and this fits perfectly. I almost bought one years ago in Australia but I really couldn’t justify the money when I’d have only worn it a couple of times a year. I can’t believe that someone would put this in a consignment shop. Wait, where did Robert go?”

“He went home and I gave him a big tip.”

“How big?”

“Two hundred.”

“Oh, thank you. Just finding this coat was worth that. Did you get his card?”

“Yep. I put it in your organizer.”

“Good. We’re definitely calling him the next time we’re here. I did think you were crazy for getting that limo but it really was a good idea.”

“Thank you. Do you want something to eat?”

Ian nodded in a distracted manner, already turning to the next bag. “I suppose I could eat. Will there be food tonight?”

It was a good thing Ian was preoccupied or he would have seen Michael’s guilt pause. “Yes, there will definitely be food tonight.”

“Oh good. We should get our suits out and make sure they’re okay. It’s a pity it’s not cold enough for me to wear the coat but I really should get it cleaned first anyway.”

“I’ll go take our suits out. Are you wearing your blue tie or the red?”

“The blue.”

“Okay.”

Michael slipped away and while he was upstairs, made a quick phone call to confirm their dinner reservations and then returned to the kitchen to put together a few skimpy sandwiches.

&&

“Michael, go up there already.” Ian hissed out of the side of his mouth as Michael seemed to be suddenly cast in concrete. He added a discreet jab to the ribs and that got Michael moving.

Ian watched as Michael made his way across the room, stopping to shake people’s hands and hug a few of the people who’d spoke before he reached the president of Warnaco, SpeedoUSA’s parent company and the president of Speedo International. He saw Michael’s eyes widen at the check in his hand before his husband turned to make a few remarks.

“Uh. I’m not really sure what to say. You guys really surprised me. I can’t really tell you how much my association with Speedo has meant to me both professionally and personally. It has been a great honor and a great pleasure to have worked with all of you. Thank you.”

Michael did another much slower round of hand shakes, with a few hugs and kisses thrown in for good measure before he returned to their table and quickly sat down.

“Are you okay?” Ian asked quietly.

“Yeah. I just wasn’t expecting them to all go on about me like that.”

“It was all true Michael.”

“They made me sound like some kind of perfect superhero.” Michael said uncomfortably.

Before Ian could say anything, Grant leaned over and gave Michael’s arm a pat. “I would pay a thousand dollars to see you in tights.”

Michael’s mouth dropped open and he couldn’t help it. He started laughing and kept laughing until he had to pick up a napkin and wipe his eyes. Ian shot Grant a grateful look, glad that Michael no longer looked so uneasy.

A half hour later, the band started playing and Michael stood up. “Ian, I think they’re playing our song.”

Ian stood and let Michael led him onto the floor, sliding his hands around Michael’s waist as they swayed to the music. “Since when is this our song?”

“Any song’s our song when it comes to dancing. By the way, we’re leaving in a half hour.”

“We are? I thought there was dinner?”

“There is dinner but we’re not eating here.”

“We’re not?”

“Nope. We have reservations somewhere else.”

“We’re just going to leave? You’re the guest of honor.” Ian said, slightly scandalized at the thought.

“Well I’ve had these reservations for months and I told Bethany we’d have to leave early. She said that the bigwigs would cut out right after the presentation and look around.”

Ian took a quick gander and realized Michael was right. “Where’d they go?”

“I have no idea and I don’t care. You know I missed Ian Day this year and I’m really feeling bad about that.”

“Oh we did miss that didn’t we?”

“Yep.”

“So we’re just going to leave all the parents and Chloe and Grant and Pieter here?”

“They know where the house is and your parents know we’re skipping out early.”

“You diabolical man. Where are we going?”

“Do you really want me to tell you?”

“Yes.”

Michael leaned in and whispered two little words that made Ian’s heart skip a beat. Ian drew back and just stared.

“No way.”

“Oh yes. I called months ago and we have a table for two by the window at nine.”

Ian checked his watch and almost forcibly dragged Michael off the dance floor. “Chloe, behave for the grandparents. Grant and Pieter, make sure everyone gets home okay. We’ll see you later.”

Ian hustled Michael out of the private room, out through the lobby and wasn’t surprised to see Robert waiting for them. He greeted the driver and almost shoved Michael inside. The door was closed behind them and Michael found himself pinned to the seat with a horny Australian in his lap.

“Ian, you’re going to give me wrinkles.” Michael said with a grin not looking that worried at the prospect.

“I don’t care. You’re the most wonderful man.”

“I only made reservations and took you shopping Ian. It’s not that big of a deal.”

“Yes it is. You do those things not because you like them but because you know I do. You are the most wonderful husband.” Ian said again, kissing him soundly. “Have I mentioned lately how glad I am that I married you?”

“Nope.”

“Remind me later and I’ll show you.”

&&

Michael got the key out of his pocket and carefully opened the front door after he’d waved goodbye to Robert. He and Ian had both had a little more to drink than they were used to and he felt a little woozy. Ian wasn’t much better and he slipped an arm around Ian’s waist to pull him inside.

“Michael, have you ever noticed how big the stars look in New York?”

As Ian was currently looking up at the skyline, Michael didn’t answer. He just got Ian in and closed the door, resetting the alarm and stopping in the kitchen to grab some bottled waters before getting Ian into the elevator.

Thank goodness the boys were sleeping downstairs tonight, Michael thought as Ian’s tongue sneaked its way into his mouth. Wow, Ian sure got frisky with a couple of glasses of wine. They got off the elevator and Michael started helping Ian out of his clothes. A task complicated by Ian’s trying to help but eventually, they were both naked and Ian was trying to burrow his way into Michael’s body using only his lips.

While Michael found that very enjoyable, he tried to reciprocate as best he could when Ian suddenly stopped moving. Michael looked down and realized that Ian had fallen asleep, his lips still pursed in mid kiss.

Michael sighed and pulled Ian up onto the pillows then he got out of bed and downed an entire bottle of water before heading to the bathroom. He rejoined Ian a few minutes later after taking care of business and brushing his teeth to find Ian had sprawled out over the entire bed. He wedged his way in somehow and settled down, drawing the sheets and blanket over them.

It was disappointing to have their evening end like this but then, he was going to have Ian for the rest of his life so he could deal. He pressed a kiss onto Ian’s shoulder and closed his eyes. He could definitely deal if he got Ian in the bargain.

&&

Ian woke up at six am and waited to hear the boys in the next door. It took him a couple of minutes to remember the previous evening and he almost fell about of bed looking for Michael who as it turned out was peacefully sleeping next to him.

Oh. He must have not been that horrible then although he could tell by the state of his mouth that he’d had a bit to drink last night. He got up and hurried to the bathroom, not just for his toothbrush but he had other urgent business too.

A quick shower later, he felt much better and was surprised that he didn’t feel hung over at all. Michael was still asleep so Ian started picking up their clothes that had been tossed all over the place.

He heard a strange sound when he handled Michael’s suit coat and realized that it must be the check from last night. He pulled it out and went to set it on the nightstand when the numbers caught his eyes. He sat down so heavily on the bed that Michael took a big bounce and woke up all at once.

“Wha? Wa? Ian? What’s wrong?”

“Michael, did you actually look at this check?” Ian asked, still a bit shocked.

“Um. Yeah.”

“Good lord. Did you know-?”

“No and I’m trying not to think about it.” Michael said as his heart stopped pounding and he dropped back onto the bed.

“I can’t believe how much this is. Do you know what you could do with this kind of money?”

“Well I hope we’re earmarking some of it to buy property in Sydney.”

Ian turned quickly. “What?”

“I said I hope we would put some of it aside to buy property in Sydney.”

“I know what you said but you’d really do that that with your money?”

“My money? I thought it was our money and we are going to be in Australia at some point. I figured now we’d have time to find something we both like or maybe even build a house. You think we could get property on the water?”

“Michael, this is seven million dollars. How expensive do you think water front property is in Sydney?”

“I have no idea.” Michael said, sitting up again and looping his arms around Ian’s waist. “What’s wrong? We always planned on living in both places.”

“I just didn’t expect this. I mean I thought we’d buy something there but building a house?”

“Sure. You have all those sketches, I’d bet you could even design it.”

Ian thought that over for a minute. “I’d have to take some architecture classes.”

“Okay.”

“And do some research about where to build, maybe call some –.” Ian paused before his brain became occupied by the thought of building a house, no a home in Sydney. He turned and caught the smile on Michael’s lips and the look in Michael’s eyes. “God, you really do love me, don’t you?”

“Well duh you big lug.”

Ian pushed Michael back and swung a leg over so he was straddling Michael’s waist and looked down into Michael’s dear face. “No, I mean you get me. You understand me.”

“You understand me too.” Michael said.

“I do but I don’t do these kinds of -.” Ian stopped talking when Michael suddenly surged up and flipped them over.

“Baby, you are my life. You have given me the family I always wanted. You gave me the courage to raise our daughter, to have our sons. You gave me back my dad and you’ve brought Margaret and Ken into my life. You even gave me a career. These things I do for you aren’t anything compared to all the things you’ve given me.”

Ian huffed a little, touched but still wanting Michael to know how much the things Michael did meant to him. “Michael, I love you.”

Michael’s smile widened and he leaned down to kiss Ian. “I love you more.”

“That’s just not possible.” Ian said as he ran a hand down Michael’s side.

Grinning now, Michael bent down to kiss Ian again when they both heard the elevator ding on their floor. Michael put his head on Ian’s shoulder and pulled up the sheet. “Damn. I don’t think I locked the door.”

They both looked over when the doors slid open and a herd of babies came crawling into the room. At first, neither noticed that there was no adult with the boys and after they changed four diapers and Ian quickly showered and dressed, they took the boys down to the kitchen expecting to find Gail or Grant or Pieter or someone else awake.

Michael went down to the basement then ran upstairs to find that they really were the only adults awake and went back to share the news with Ian. He sat down and picked up a jar of baby food.

“I think they figured out the elevator. It was my fault because I didn’t lock it down last night.”

“Well, we’re leaving in two days so a fat lot of good it’s going to do them. Although it is pretty amazing that they did it at all.” Ian said as he spooned food into Jamey then Robbie.

“I think they took a little side trip before they made it up to our room. There are toys all over the living room and the newspaper is suspiciously shredded.”

They both looked at Harry, their little paper shredder, who gave them a gap toothed grin of pure innocence and demanded more food.

“Michael, do you think the boys are going to need braces?” Ian asked as he obliged Harry.

“I don’t know but I think Chloe will. Has she been to a dentist lately?”

Ian almost dropped his spoon. “Oh hell. That’s what I was meaning to do before we left, make dental appointments.”

“And we need to get Chloe’s uniforms.”

“I have the list in my laptop and on the home network. Will you remind me about the dental thing? I don’t have a free hand at the moment.”

“I will. Can you hand me some of those orange wedges? I think Mr. Harry would like some fruit.”

“Here you go love.”

“Thanks baby. Are we taking the boys to the soccer match later?”

“I don’t see why not. I think they’ll like it.”

“Me too. Will you have time to get the lasagna made for tonight?”

“For Whitney? Yes, I already did it the other night while you were out. It’s been in the fridge since yesterday.”

“Awesome. Maybe we should stop at the market on the way home and pick up some salad greens. We’re almost out and I don’t think we should bother with another delivery since we’re going home in two days.”

“Good idea. She needs all the veggies she can get at this stage. Have you spoken to Whitney recently?”

“The other day. She’s worried about how they’re going to deal with two boys.”

“And you said?”

“Well I didn’t say that we have four and she’s not going to get any sympathy from us.”

“Good thing you held your tongue love. I look fantastic in black but getting killed by your seventh months pregnant sister would just be embarrassing.”

“Very true. She and Trent want to baby sit for us tonight.”

Ian paused as he wiped up Jamey’s hands and face. “Oh. Uh.”

“Yeah, I’m not sure I like it either. Not that I don’t think they can’t handle it but Whitney’s not moving very fast these days.”

“Hm. I suppose we have to let them though. It’s important for her confidence that we trust them with our precious little angels.”

“God, I can’t believe you said that with a completely straight face.” Michael commented as he lifted Liam out of the high chair and set up on the floor.

“I’ve been practicing. Oh god. Robbie, are you hiding an anvil on your person?” Ian asked rhetorically as he lifted Robbie out.

“Only a sledgehammer.” Michael answered as he put Harry down. “Okay I have a plan. We were skipping taekwondo anyway so why don’t you pick up Chloe while Hilary and I take a walk? Or I’ll go while you and Hilary take a walk. That way, one of us is near and we’ll both have our cell phones.”

“I like that plan. Hey, where’d Liam go?”

They both heard the elevator ding and rushed into the foyer to see the doors closing on four ‘angelic’ little faces.

“We forgot to turn it off again.” Michael said as he dashed upstairs with Ian on his heels.

&&

“So Hil. How’s it going?”

“Good. I like Denver.”

“And how’s Craig?”

“He’s good.”

They walked further down the block, letting the dogs set the pace and Michael looked down at his sister with a worried expression.

“So what’s wrong?”

“What makes you think anything is wrong?”

“Because you’ve been a little off for a while.”

Hilary’s mouth turned down. “Is it that obvious?”

“Maybe not to the rest of the world but you are my big sister. You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to but I am here if you need an ear.”

“Thanks. I appreciate that. I just need to think it over for a while.”

“And it’s something you don’t want to talk about with Whitney.” Michael stated.

She sighed and tightened her hand that was resting on Michael’s arm. “No. Okay, I’m going to tell you. Craig and I are going to have a baby.”

“Hil!” Michael exclaimed reaching over to hug her gently. “That’s terrific! How far along are you? Have you had your first ultrasound?”

“Whoa. Wait. I’m only three months pregnant. I found out just before we came out here.”

“And it’s killing you not to tell people but you don’t want to steal Whitney’s thunder.”

“Right.”

“Okay. If you want my opinion, I think you should tell Whitney and Mom. I mean you’re not going to get any less pregnant and then they’ll be hurt that you didn’t share it with them.”

“You really think so?”

“Well sure. Whitney isn’t a total spazz and you guys are so close. She’ll probably be so happy for you and Mom’s going to be ecstatic. Wow. I’m so happy for you.” Michael said, hugging her again.

“Thanks. Okay, I guess I was being silly. That’s what Craig inferred anyway.”

“I don’t think you were being silly, you were just trying to be a good sister. I’ll bet Whitney will actually be happy that now Mom won’t have just her to worry about. How are you feeling?”

“I’m a little nauseous sometimes but I’ve been doing the ginger tea and saltine cracker thing and that really helps.”

“Good. I’ll ask Ian to send you some of the hard ginger candies too. Chris had to switch to those later in her pregnancy.”

“Thanks again. So, now it’s your turn to spill. What did you do to Ian to make him glow like that?”

“Glow? Are you suggesting that I got him pregnant?”

“Ha ha. No, I mean he just looked really happy. You do too for that matter.”

“Um, it’s nice to be together again. Training camp was rough and now we know we’ll finally have an almost normal life.”

“Uh huh. So there’s been no sex?” Hilary asked slyly.

“Hilary! I’m not going to tell you about my sex life!”

Hilary chuckled and ruffled up his hair. “Glad to see I can still get you, little bro.”

&&

Monday August 13, 2012

Michael finished squeezing that last bag under one of the seats in the back and checked the bungee cords on Flannel’s cage before walking forward and sitting in the driver’s seat. Ian came out of the house a few minutes later.

“Well the cleaning crew is on the job and Gwen’s got the keys back. I’ve checked every floor and I believe we have everything. Are we ready to go?”

“We’re just waiting for Grant and Pieter to come back with the dogs.”

“Okay.” Ian twisted around and saw that the boys were already sleeping, his parents were settled in, Gail was reading and Chloe was leaning back in her seat with her headphones on. “Staying here was a lot of fun but I’m glad we’re going before the boys figured out the front door and alarm.”

“I hear that. How long do you think it’s going to be before Chloe’s asleep?”

“I say she’ll be out before we leave the city. She really had a good time.”

“Yeah but I really could have lived without knowing about the fencing lessons.”

“Me too. Oh, there’s Grant and Pieter. Woo! We’re going home!”

Michael chuckled. “I was just going to say that.”

“Well I beat you too it.” Ian said as he stood up and took the dog’s leashes while Grant and Pieter got settled. His friends were looking a little rough around the edges from their night out on Saturday and two weeks of constant running.

Once the doors were closed and the dogs sprawled out in the beds under the boys’ seats, Michael put the bus in gear and carefully pulled out onto the street. The ride home was quiet as everyone but Michael and Ian took an opportunity to catch up on their sleep.

Ian started grinning when he realized that Michael had been repeating something under his breath for the last few miles.

“Are you that eager to get home?”

“Oh yeah. Our bed, our bathroom, our nightstands. I’d say our sheets but we took those with us. Our hallway, our stairs, our closet, our kitchen, our-.”

“Okay. I get your point. What’s the first thing you’re going to do when we get there?”

“You mean after we unload the bus, turn the water back on, change and feed the boys, feed the animals, walk the dogs, say ‘hi’ to all of Chloe’s friends, get dinner going and start the laundry?”

“Yes, after that.”

“I’m not sure. What did you have planned?”

“Lounging on the couch with you.”

“That’s good for me.”

&&

Grant and Pieter were nice enough to hand around and help unload the bus but vanished soon afterwards to their own house while Ian and Michael finished hauling everything inside. Margaret got dinner started and then helped Chloe, Gail and Ken feed the boys while Ian and Michael got the various items put in the right areas and before long, Ian and Michael were on their comfy couch while the boys crawled and rolled around the gated family room.

The rest of the family had disappeared into their own spaces and Michael sighed happily. “Do you hear that?”

Ian shook his head. “I don’t hear anything aside from Mum and Dad’s telly, Chloe on the phone, Gail in the kitchen and the boys babbling away.”

“I know. That’s the sound of home.”

&&
- 37
- 38
- 39
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

The Sweet Life