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beansideTitle: Operation Gigolo
Author:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
beanside
Rating: R
Pairing: Jared/Jensen
Original Prompt: 16. Operation Gigolo
Objective: To stop Lynn Morgan's feuding parents from filing for divorce.
Approach: Introduce a tattooed, leather-wearing hell-raiser as their prospective son-in-law. The man for the job: Lawyer Tony Russo.
Lynn's parents would join forces to save her-Lynn was sure of it. But from whom? Her best friend Tony Russo was more GQ than Hell's Angels, but that was before the "transformation." Suddenly, steady, reliable Tony had turned into a sexy, irresistible bad boy. The trouble was that Lynn kept forgetting Tony's kisses were just part of the act…
Disclaimer: Never happened. Fiction. Total fiction.
"It's just been a shitty year," Jared murmured, swallowing back a healthy sip of his beer.
"I know," Jensen soothed. "Look, it's just a trial separation, right?"
"Yeah." Jared shook his head. "It's weird, they've always argued, but I think they felt like they had to put up a strong front with all the shit my sister pulled last year. Hell, for that matter, the shit I've pulled. They'd band together and be all unified and shit."
"Maybe you should give 'em something to unify over," Jensen suggested. "Tell them you're joining a cult, or something. Or that you're dating a...God, what would be bad enough? A Democrat?"
Jared laughed, but then sobered. "That's a pretty good plan, actually. If I was dating someone they hated, they might put their differences aside long enough to remember that they love each other."
"Cool. Now you just have to call central casting, and have them send over someone-"
"Won't work. Needs to be someone my parents can quiz, who'll know about me."
"Good luck with that. Sandy's just the type they'd love, and lets face it--you don't know many girls."
"Mmm. Hey. What about you?"
"What about me? I don't do girls, Jare. Did you forget?" Jensen laughed. "What, gonna tell them that you're batting for the other team? God knows, it freaked my parents the fuck out."
"Yeah, why not? It's not like I've never sucked a cock, Jen. I work on Broadway, for God's sake."
"I don't think-"
"We'll have to rough you up a little, though. God forbid they go all tolerant on me. Do you own anything leather?"
"Leather? Why?"
"Let's face it, Jen. You're the least objectionable gay man, ever. You go to church, you're all preppy and shit. You just finished a starring run in "Jesus Christ, Superstar! My parents love that musical. Maybe we can tell them that you're a mob enforcer, or something."
"I'm a--No. No way. This isn't going to work. Also, hell no."
"Please. C'mon, Jen, I'm begging you. Please. As your friend, and as your director."
"Oh, that's low, dude. No. The puppy eyes aren't working dude. Not a chance in hell."
"Jen. You're an actor, you can do this. I know you can. Please. I will do anything for you. Anything. I just...please."
The puppy eyes worked. Dammit. "Fine. I'll call Chris and ask him if he has some clothes I can borrow. One weekend. That's it. Got it?"
"Got it. They're meeting me for dinner Friday night at six. Get there around six thirty, seven."
"Damn, I'm such a slacker that I all but stand you up?"
Jared nodded enthusiastically. "And be all PDA, they hate that."
"PDA?"
"Jesus, you're lame. I don't know if I can handle a boyfriend who's that lame. Public Display of Affection, dorkwad."
"Like hugging?"
"And kissing. Lots of touching and kissing." Jared nodded enthusiastically.
"Dude."
"What?"
"You want me to kiss you. With tongue?"
"Oh yeah. Gross 'em out. I'll never ask for anything else. Ever, I'll buy you dinner at La Mesa. Or wherever. I promise," Jared clasped his hands together. "C'mon."
"Fine. And a six pack of Grolsch."
"Done."
"I'm going to regret this," Jensen muttered. "I just know it."
*****
By six thirty Friday, Jared was praying that Jensen just showed up. He'd called yesterday, confirming that he would be there, and that Christian had fixed him up with an appropriatelypunky outfit. "I look like an extra for the Village People," Jensen had complained.
Right now, Jared didn't really care if he came in with the Village People. His parents would. Not. Stop. Arguing.
First, his mother had complained about his father pulling out her chair. Then, it was his father, going off on how his mother gave him a dirty look when he ordered a martini.
Next, it was about how his grandmother on Dad's side had insulted Mom throughout the marriage.
Once the topic of relatives was on the table, all bets were off. Jared was on his second beer by the time he felt a warm hand on his shoulder. "Hey, sweetheart," Jensen's familiar voice murmured. Then, fingers knotted in his hair, tugging his head back. A moment later, he got a brief image of black leather--and was that eyeliner--before hard lips covered his, demanding a response.
Holy shit, Jared thought. This was...whoa. Jensen kissed like he meant it, all strong hands, cupping his face, lips warm, moving over his, and holy fuck, tongue whispering along his lower lip, teasing and retreating.
Then, Jensen was backing off, giving him a possessive smirk. "Hey."
The world was not fair, Jared thought. He'd know Jen for three years, and he had no idea that the man could look like that. Under the leather jacket, Jen had on a skin-tight red t-shirt. And sweet baby Jesus, could he breathe in those jeans?
Jared's mind spun for a moment, trying to remember what he wanted to say. "You're late," he blurted.
"Bike was bein' a bitch." Jensen shrugged, flopping into the seat across from his mother. "Hey. I'm Jen."
"Mom, Dad. Um. I'm-"
"Working on Broadway," His mother murmured. "We suspected."
Jensen, the bastard, laughed at him. "So much for passing as a metrosexual, sweetheart."
"You mean like you do?" Jared muttered.
"Never claimed not to be a queer," Jensen grinned, leaning back in the chair.
"Oh, is that word okay for you to say?" Jared's mom asked. "Jared says we shouldn't say it. But is that like a black man saying n-"
"Mom!"
"The "n" word," she finished, primly.
"Don't yell at your mother, Jared," his father scolded.
He was in hell, Jared decided. And that was before Jensen started running the backs of his fingers over Jared's knuckles, distracting him from the conversation. Every time Jared glared at him, Jensen gave him a heavy lidded smirk. And was that eyeliner? The man was trying to kill him.
The worst of it was that Jensen was totally unaffected. He kept up his end of the conversation with ease, flirting shamelessly with his mother. He didn't lie about his occupation, but he heavily intimated that he was working part time for "a family."
"A family?" his mother echoed.
"The family," Jensen intoned, flashing a wide grin and a wink at them. "Just until I find another musical I want to do."
"The family? Isn't that...dangerous?" his mother whispered.
"Nah. Not really."
"So you're an actor?" his father asked.
"A singer and actor, yeah."
"Have you been in anything we'd know?"
Jensen shrugged. "I just finished a run as Christ in Superstar."
"Oh, that's wonderful!" his mother murmured. "You know, Jared was conceived after a performance of Jesus Christ Superstar!"
Jensen smiled, glancing at Jared with the look that said he had ammunition enough to last for years. "Really? He never mentioned that."
"Oh yes. Pilate was played by a lovely young man named Jared Lee. He had such a lovely voice. We named Jared after him." Her forehead wrinkled. "Maybe that's why he ended up gay. I'm pretty sure Pilate was-"
"Flaming," his father put in. "Just flaming."
"It happens," Jensen deadpanned.
Oh, God, Jared thought. I've never asked for anything, aside from to have Susie Caldwell's Levi's split when she bent over, but please, please don't let them say--
"Not that there's anything wrong with that," his father added.
Dammit. You suck, God, Jared thought. Wait, I didn't mean that. Could you...y'know, conjure one of those acts of God you're so famous for? That would be awesome right now. Tornado, earthquake, flood? Burning bush? Just get me out of here.
"After we eat, Jared was going to take us for a carriage ride around Central Park. You're coming, right Jensen?"
"Of course ma'am." Jensen flashed another wide smile at Jared. "I'd love to."
"Great," Jared murmured, glaring through his fixed smile.
The carriage ride was everything Jared had feared. Well, more to the point, everything he'd hoped for when it was just his parents, and now, utter hell. Jensen was taking advantage of Jared'sPDA directive. He seemed to have sprung several new hands just for the occasion. He. Wouldn't. Stop. Touching.
If it wasn't an arm around Jared, it was a brush of lips over his jaw, or fingertips along his thigh. It was driving Jared insane. It wasn't like he hadn't known that Jensen was attractive. Jared wasn't blind, after all. But in the lantern light, with the eyeliner, and the obscenely full lips... Jesus, he was losing his mind. Was he seriously considering Jensen? Mousy, quiet, shy Jensen?
"It would help the charade if you'd kiss me back," Jensen purred, breathing against Jared's throat. He shivered--because it was cold, dammit-- and turned his head towards Jensen.
He wouldn't have expected Jensen to kiss like that, Jared thought stupidly. Jensen should kiss timidly, sweetly. Not like he was going to devour Jared from the mouth down. Jensen's hand slid up his chest to curl around his cheek, holding him close, tilting his head back for a better angle.
It shouldn't be that good, Jared thought wildly. Everything snapped into crystalline focus--Jensen's soft lips, the way his hands cradled Jared. The smell of Jensen's cologne, the heat of his body against the cold air. The way his body tightened, coming to life under Jensen's touch.
God? Yeah, I know. But really, a bolt of lightning would be a big help. Just fry my ass, and save me from this? I mean, in a moment, he's going to notice that the blanket is tenting, and then, I'm going to die of embarrassment.
"Stop thinking so hard," Jensen whispered, biting his earlobe. "Just go with it."
"Boys?" Jared's mom said softly. "We're back."
Jensen lifted his head, grinning like a shark. "Whoops," he murmured, voice full of saccharine insincerity.
Jared smiled at Jensen hoping he looked the part of the besottled boyfriend, when all he wanted to do was pitch Jensen out of the carriage.
Jensen leapt to the pavement, and offered his mother a hand. Dammit! He was supposed to be acting like a self absorbed douche, Jared thought.
Jensen seemed to remember his role as he was helping Jared's mother and once she was on the ground, quickly turned away to take a "phone call."
Jared shrugged at his parents as Jensen walked away growling into the phone. "Must be a work thing," he murmured apologetically.
"Oh, that's all right, sweetheart," his mother assured him. "We're probably going to head back to the hotel. You know us old people, we can't stay out the way we used to."
"Speak for yourself," his father shot back. "I thought I'd like to go hit the bar for a few drinks."
"Somehow, that doesn't surprise me," his mother sniped. "Fine, I'm going to go back to the hotel."
Jared sighed. "Okay. Which bar did you want to go to, Dad?"
"I could give you a lift back to the hotel, Mrs. Padalecki," Jensen offered. "That was my job, anyway. I'm getting called in to work tonight, and the Beekman's only a few blocks from where I need to go."
She nodded, and Jensen led her over to a sleek black motorcycle that Jensen probably had borrowed from Chris, too. Jared pulled Jensen close on the pretext of kissing him good-bye. "Do you even know how to ride that thing?" he muttered.
"Of course I do," Jensen murmured, sliding his arms around Jared. "It's like riding a bike, right?"
"If you get my mother killed-"
"She'll be fine. Trust me," Jensen grinned.
He went back over to Jared's mother and slid off his leather jacket, exposing his lean arms. A fake tattoo wound up his left arm, a tribal pattern. It accentuated Jensen's muscle, stark against his pale skin. Jared found himself wanting to lick it. Jesus, this was so not good.
He almost didn't notice that Jensen had wrapped his jacket around Jared's mother, helping her onto the bike.
Jensen flashed a grin at his father. "Was nice meeting you, dude."
***
"He seems very nice," his mother said over brunch the next day.
Jared nodded blearily and drank his coffee. His father had kept him out at, of all places, a strip club "He's a good guy," he muttered.
"Well, I'm not sure about his connections to the "Family." I mean, i've watched the Sopranos. But if he makes you happy, that's the important part."
"I didn't think you'd like him," Jared admitted.
"A few years ago, I probably wouldn't have. But after all, your grandmother loved your father, and look where we've ended up."
"Mom-"
"That sounded bad. I don't regret it for a minute. You and your sister are your father's and my greatest accomplishment. But I think we hurt you two more by staying together. Your sister jumped into the first relationship she could find, and you...you seem determined not to let anyone close. I'm actually glad to see that you and Jensen are doing well."
Jared flushed guiltily. "Mom, I-"
"Don't start, Jared Tristian Padalecki. Your father and I have been talking about this for a while. We stayed together for you and your sister, but she's at college, and you're here in New York. The fact is, we make much better friends when we don't have to live together."
"I know," Jared admitted softly. "I just--I hate this, Mom. I just wish-"
"If wishes were horses, baby," she said gently, petting his hand.
"So...what are you going to do?"
She smiled, her eyes brightening. "Well, you know your grandmother left us her condo when she passed, so I think I'm going to move in there. Hadn't sold yet anyhow. I think I'm going to go back to school."
"To college?" Jared smiled. "What are you going to study?"
"I was thinking about fashion design. I'd like to open a boutique for real women. The ones who most designers ignore," she said, smiling.
"Jensen and I aren't together," Jared blurted. "And the only Family he works for is the ones who are designing the costumes for my next play."
His mother sipped her coffee and smiled. "I know, sweetheart. He told me last night. We stopped and had a snack at a little Chinese place. Such a nice boy."
"He told-" Jared gaped. "But...I-"
"He's actually the one who convinced me that I should go back to school. You know, that's what he did first, before acting. He went to school at Parsons."
"No, I didn't," Jared said slowly.
"Oh. Well, he got into acting to pay the bills, apparently. Anyway, he told me that you're his friend. And I think he has a little crush on you. No one kisses like that unless there's something behind it." She raised an eyebrow. "Just remember to use protection, dear."
"Mom!"
She laughed, and Jared shook his head, ducking forward to let his hair hide his face. His mother was deluded. Jensen was his friend.
He saw his parents off at the airport the next day, promising to make it down to Texas soon.
****
If Jared was worried about how things would be with Jensen, he needn't have bothered. Jensen was the same as ever, flirting with his co-stars at rehearsal, teasing Jared. He could almost pretend that those smirking lips had never touched his, never devoured him. Except at night, when he was alone. Then, he stopped pretending, and let his mind and his hands wander.
It was agony. Seeing him every day, wanting. And watching him leave every day with one of the other actors who lived near him, laughing, heads close. It was killing him. He kept finding excuses to keep Jensen there.
It came to a head over of all things, a stage kiss. Jensen's co-star, Sophia had strep throat, and Jensen was concerned about the blocking for that scene. So, of course, he grabbed hisboytoy to run through it with, dipping him deeply and planting a wet kiss on his lips.
"Jensen? Could I see you in my office," Jared called.
"Sure, what's up, Jay?"
"Look, you know I don't care what you do in your personal life, but could you not flaunt it on the set?"
"Flaunt it-" Jensen furrowed his brow. Jared debated licking it. "Wait, you mean Chad?"
"Look, I don't care, it's not my business-"
"You're right, it's not. So what the hell is your problem?"
"I just--Jesus, Jensen. People don't need to see you and your flavor of the week practically humping on the stage." God, Jared thought. It's me again. Could you please make my mouth stop moving? If my foot goes any further down my throat,Ima choke.
"So now I'm a slut, too?"
"If the Prada fits, sweetie," Jared said, smirking. God, that wasn't a help, really. How about striking me mute? That would work.
"Fuck you. It didn't seem to bother you when you were begging me to help you. Or what, were you just disappointed that I didn't put out for you?" Jensen snapped. "You know what, fuck you, Jared. I don't need this shit."
"Fuck me? I'm just trying to put on a play! You're the one who seems to be my chorus line's personal escort service." Jared knew the moment the words were out of his mouth that he had Fucked up. With a capital "F." Which also stood for fail. Which he'd just done.
The color drained from Jensen's face, leaving his freckles stark against pale skin. Twin spots of color rose to his cheeks and in the second before he stuck his hands in his pocket, Jared could see them shaking. Still, when he spoke, his voice was quiet, devoid of color. "I quit," he said softly, turning on his heel to go.
Jared gaped, as much at what he'd said as at Jensen. "Wait-" Jared grabbed Jensen's shoulder, tugging. "Jen-"
"No. Fuck you, you hypocritical son of a bitch. It's all fine and dandy when the gay guy can help you out with your fucking dumbass plan, but god forbid they actually be sexual. I've got news for you. That's why it's called homosexual youdicksmack. Does that bother you? I like cock. I like to suck them, I like to be fucked by them. Fucking deal with it."
The mental image of Jensen on his knees, sinful lips wrapped around Jared's cock was so strong for a moment that it took his breath away. It was followed quickly by another one, of Jensen riding him, slick and tight around his cock, eyes closed in bliss.
The door slamming brought him out of his daze, but Jensen wasn't in the hallway when he hurried out, apology on his lips. He wasn't at his apartment either. And he sure as hell wasn't answering his cell phone.
****
The show was getting rave reviews, but Jared didn't care. All that he thought about was Jensen.
Finally, he couldn't take it anymore. It was time to grovel. When he got to Jensen's condo, hee could see a light under the door. At least he was home. He knocked tentatively, hiding behind the giant bouquet of flowers. The door opened, and he peeked out, into a pair of brown eyes. That were definitely not Jensen's jade green. Shit. he had someone there. "Um. I--I'm sorry, I--"
"Ken," a light feminine voice called. "Who is it?"
"I have no idea. Can I help you?"
"I'm sorry. I was looking for a friend of mine. Jensen? About six feet, green eyes, freckles?"
"He moved. We're renting the place. Nice guy. Shame he had to quit Broadway."
"Quit? What do you mean?"
"I didn't really talk to him that much. Maybe Kat knows." He disappeared, replaced by a tiny dark haired woman.
"Hi."
"Hi. Jensen? Yeah, that was really sad. Such a shame. He said he had a growth on his vocal cords. Was going to have to have surgery, and stood a good chance of losing his voice completely."
Jared reeled back. Jensen was sick? "Did he leave a forwarding?"
"Nope. We send the rent to a PO box in San Antonio." She shrugged. "I hope you find him. He seemed really...lonely. Like he could use a friend."
He left, mind reeling. Jensen was sick. A growth? Did they mean like a malignant growth, or just a polyp, or...Jesus, was he dying? Thoughts of "An Affair to Remember" flashed through his head, followed by a mental picture of Jensen, tired and wan, in pain, and alone. Because he, JaredPadalecki, was too chickenshit to admit that he loved Jensen, and that he was jealous.
Whoa, love? That was a hell of a leap to make, he thought. He cared for Jensen, sure. And yeah, he was a little jealous, maybe. Jensen was just so obscenely good looking, and so genuine that he just drew people to him, like moths circling a flame.
Jensen was his friend. And sure, maybe he was attracted to him, but did that mean that he was in love?
Nah. He was just being overly dramatic.
Okay. He had to find Jensen. Maybe Chris or Chad knew--Yeah, right. Like they'd tell him. With all the baleful looks Chad had been giving him, Jared wasn't getting any help there. And Chris--hell, he probably would either punch him or slam the door on his head.
Jared's cell phone chirped, and he dug it out of his pocket, sighing when his mother's number came up. "Hi, Mom," he said, voice dull.
"What's wrong, sweetie?"
Jared sighed. "I screwed up, Momma. I thought I could just pretend for the one weekend, that Jensen and I were together, but then I couldn't go back to just seeing him as a friend. And I got jealous, and I was a douche and he quit the play, and when I tried to find him, he's moved, and he's sick, and I don't know how to find him, and Momma," Jared paused for breath. "I love him."
"Oh, baby." His mother was silent for a moment. "You should come visit," she blurted.
"What? Mom, I-"
"No. I can't explain more than that. I promised. But you need to come visit. I have class on Monday. You could come to that."
"Why?"
"I think you'd find...a lot of things you need there."
Hardly daring to breathe, he asked, "What class is that?"
The smile was evident in his mother's voice. "Costuming for stage and screen."
"I'll be there."
****
Of course, because God was a spiteful God, his flight was late, Jared thought. Why didn't they mention that in the bible? Noo, in the bible, God was always butting in, making rocks spring a leak, or asking guys to sacrifice their kids. But they never mentioned the part where he delayed flights or made traffic jams. Then again, were there traffic jams back then? Maybe oxen cart jams?
Whatever.
He finally got to the school, just before Mom's class was supposed to finish.
The parking lot was jammed, so he parked on the street and jogged to the building, enjoying the warm sun. Back in New York, it was probably still forty degrees, but here in San Antonio, it was already pushing the mid seventies.
Just another reason he missed home.
He got to the room as a stream of twenty-somethings poured out of the classroom. Then, his mother was there, hugging him. "Go ahead in, sweetheart. There's a free period after ours."
"Yes, ma'am."
"And come over for dinner, okay? At seven."
"Okay, momma."
"Good luck, Jared."
"I'll need it."
The classroom wasn't very big. Maybe thirty chairs arranged on three risers. The blackboard held a rather complex-looking drawing of various patternpieces. Or he assumed that's what it was. Either that or a Rorschach blot.
And in front of said Rorschach blot, was a heart-breakingly familiar figure. "Jen," Jared whispered softly.
Whether Jensen heard him, or just saw that someone was walking up to him, Jared wasn't sure, but he lifted his head, jade eyes widening behind glasses he hadn't seen Jensen wear in years. "Jared," he said.
Jared flinched at the raspy voice. "Hey."
"What-" Jensen took a deep breath, and seemed to collect himself. "I think your mom just left, you can catch her if you--"
"I didn't come here for her."
Jensen's jaw tensed. "Why did you come here, then."
"Because I owe you an apology."
Jensen shook his head. "I don't want it. Just go back to New York, Jare. I hear the play got good reviews. Congratulations," Jensen offered, voice bitter.
"Jen, please. What happened?"
"What, you mean this?" He tilted his head back, letting Jared see the thin line of scar tissue down his throat. "Nothing. Just a couple of polyps. Probably from overstraining my voice. But then, it got infected, and they had to clean it out. And here I am."
"I'm sorry," Jared said.
"Fine. Whatever. Are we done? I've got to get ready for my next class."
"I love you."
"What?" Jensen glared at him.
"I love you," Jared repeated. "I was an ass, and I'm sorry, I was jealous, and I suck but I've missed you and-"
"So now you're gay?"
"I-" Jared considered for a moment. "I think I'm Jensen-sexual."
Whatever reaction he thought he'd get, derisive laughter wasn't one of the options. "You're Jensen-sexual? You don't know me. You barely know yourself. You're so damn sure of yourself. You get a boner for a dude, and suddenly, you're ready to fly the rainbow flag? I don't need this kind of shit, Jared."
"Jen, please. I don't-"
"No. Get out of here. There's nothing for you here."
For a moment, Jared considered walking away. Then he shook his head. "Do you want me to grovel? Beg? Tell me, and I'll do it. I'm not leaving, Jen. I love you. And I miss my friend."
"What about sex?" Jensen asked. "You gonna freak out again?"
"Nope. I want you. I want to-" Words failed Jared, and he gave up, pulling Jensen into his arms and bending to press his lips against Jensen's.
For a moment, Jensen tensed, then with a soft noise, he melted against Jared, arms going around his waist, pulling him close. "I missed you."
In lieu of replying, Jared let his tongue tease at Jensen's lower lip, delving lightly into his mouth. To his surprise, his tongue encountered metal. He pulled back, looking down at Jensen curiously. "What the hell?"
Grinning, Jensen stuck out his tongue, revealing the silver bar piercing it. "Turned out, I kinda liked being the bad boy."
"Mmm. I like the sound of that," Jared said, grinning.
End.
Author:
beansideRating: R
Pairing: Jared/Jensen
Original Prompt: 16. Operation Gigolo
Objective: To stop Lynn Morgan's feuding parents from filing for divorce.
Approach: Introduce a tattooed, leather-wearing hell-raiser as their prospective son-in-law. The man for the job: Lawyer Tony Russo.
Lynn's parents would join forces to save her-Lynn was sure of it. But from whom? Her best friend Tony Russo was more GQ than Hell's Angels, but that was before the "transformation." Suddenly, steady, reliable Tony had turned into a sexy, irresistible bad boy. The trouble was that Lynn kept forgetting Tony's kisses were just part of the act…
Disclaimer: Never happened. Fiction. Total fiction.
"It's just been a shitty year," Jared murmured, swallowing back a healthy sip of his beer.
"I know," Jensen soothed. "Look, it's just a trial separation, right?"
"Yeah." Jared shook his head. "It's weird, they've always argued, but I think they felt like they had to put up a strong front with all the shit my sister pulled last year. Hell, for that matter, the shit I've pulled. They'd band together and be all unified and shit."
"Maybe you should give 'em something to unify over," Jensen suggested. "Tell them you're joining a cult, or something. Or that you're dating a...God, what would be bad enough? A Democrat?"
Jared laughed, but then sobered. "That's a pretty good plan, actually. If I was dating someone they hated, they might put their differences aside long enough to remember that they love each other."
"Cool. Now you just have to call central casting, and have them send over someone-"
"Won't work. Needs to be someone my parents can quiz, who'll know about me."
"Good luck with that. Sandy's just the type they'd love, and lets face it--you don't know many girls."
"Mmm. Hey. What about you?"
"What about me? I don't do girls, Jare. Did you forget?" Jensen laughed. "What, gonna tell them that you're batting for the other team? God knows, it freaked my parents the fuck out."
"Yeah, why not? It's not like I've never sucked a cock, Jen. I work on Broadway, for God's sake."
"I don't think-"
"We'll have to rough you up a little, though. God forbid they go all tolerant on me. Do you own anything leather?"
"Leather? Why?"
"Let's face it, Jen. You're the least objectionable gay man, ever. You go to church, you're all preppy and shit. You just finished a starring run in "Jesus Christ, Superstar! My parents love that musical. Maybe we can tell them that you're a mob enforcer, or something."
"I'm a--No. No way. This isn't going to work. Also, hell no."
"Please. C'mon, Jen, I'm begging you. Please. As your friend, and as your director."
"Oh, that's low, dude. No. The puppy eyes aren't working dude. Not a chance in hell."
"Jen. You're an actor, you can do this. I know you can. Please. I will do anything for you. Anything. I just...please."
The puppy eyes worked. Dammit. "Fine. I'll call Chris and ask him if he has some clothes I can borrow. One weekend. That's it. Got it?"
"Got it. They're meeting me for dinner Friday night at six. Get there around six thirty, seven."
"Damn, I'm such a slacker that I all but stand you up?"
Jared nodded enthusiastically. "And be all PDA, they hate that."
"PDA?"
"Jesus, you're lame. I don't know if I can handle a boyfriend who's that lame. Public Display of Affection, dorkwad."
"Like hugging?"
"And kissing. Lots of touching and kissing." Jared nodded enthusiastically.
"Dude."
"What?"
"You want me to kiss you. With tongue?"
"Oh yeah. Gross 'em out. I'll never ask for anything else. Ever, I'll buy you dinner at La Mesa. Or wherever. I promise," Jared clasped his hands together. "C'mon."
"Fine. And a six pack of Grolsch."
"Done."
"I'm going to regret this," Jensen muttered. "I just know it."
*****
By six thirty Friday, Jared was praying that Jensen just showed up. He'd called yesterday, confirming that he would be there, and that Christian had fixed him up with an appropriatelypunky outfit. "I look like an extra for the Village People," Jensen had complained.
Right now, Jared didn't really care if he came in with the Village People. His parents would. Not. Stop. Arguing.
First, his mother had complained about his father pulling out her chair. Then, it was his father, going off on how his mother gave him a dirty look when he ordered a martini.
Next, it was about how his grandmother on Dad's side had insulted Mom throughout the marriage.
Once the topic of relatives was on the table, all bets were off. Jared was on his second beer by the time he felt a warm hand on his shoulder. "Hey, sweetheart," Jensen's familiar voice murmured. Then, fingers knotted in his hair, tugging his head back. A moment later, he got a brief image of black leather--and was that eyeliner--before hard lips covered his, demanding a response.
Holy shit, Jared thought. This was...whoa. Jensen kissed like he meant it, all strong hands, cupping his face, lips warm, moving over his, and holy fuck, tongue whispering along his lower lip, teasing and retreating.
Then, Jensen was backing off, giving him a possessive smirk. "Hey."
The world was not fair, Jared thought. He'd know Jen for three years, and he had no idea that the man could look like that. Under the leather jacket, Jen had on a skin-tight red t-shirt. And sweet baby Jesus, could he breathe in those jeans?
Jared's mind spun for a moment, trying to remember what he wanted to say. "You're late," he blurted.
"Bike was bein' a bitch." Jensen shrugged, flopping into the seat across from his mother. "Hey. I'm Jen."
"Mom, Dad. Um. I'm-"
"Working on Broadway," His mother murmured. "We suspected."
Jensen, the bastard, laughed at him. "So much for passing as a metrosexual, sweetheart."
"You mean like you do?" Jared muttered.
"Never claimed not to be a queer," Jensen grinned, leaning back in the chair.
"Oh, is that word okay for you to say?" Jared's mom asked. "Jared says we shouldn't say it. But is that like a black man saying n-"
"Mom!"
"The "n" word," she finished, primly.
"Don't yell at your mother, Jared," his father scolded.
He was in hell, Jared decided. And that was before Jensen started running the backs of his fingers over Jared's knuckles, distracting him from the conversation. Every time Jared glared at him, Jensen gave him a heavy lidded smirk. And was that eyeliner? The man was trying to kill him.
The worst of it was that Jensen was totally unaffected. He kept up his end of the conversation with ease, flirting shamelessly with his mother. He didn't lie about his occupation, but he heavily intimated that he was working part time for "a family."
"A family?" his mother echoed.
"The family," Jensen intoned, flashing a wide grin and a wink at them. "Just until I find another musical I want to do."
"The family? Isn't that...dangerous?" his mother whispered.
"Nah. Not really."
"So you're an actor?" his father asked.
"A singer and actor, yeah."
"Have you been in anything we'd know?"
Jensen shrugged. "I just finished a run as Christ in Superstar."
"Oh, that's wonderful!" his mother murmured. "You know, Jared was conceived after a performance of Jesus Christ Superstar!"
Jensen smiled, glancing at Jared with the look that said he had ammunition enough to last for years. "Really? He never mentioned that."
"Oh yes. Pilate was played by a lovely young man named Jared Lee. He had such a lovely voice. We named Jared after him." Her forehead wrinkled. "Maybe that's why he ended up gay. I'm pretty sure Pilate was-"
"Flaming," his father put in. "Just flaming."
"It happens," Jensen deadpanned.
Oh, God, Jared thought. I've never asked for anything, aside from to have Susie Caldwell's Levi's split when she bent over, but please, please don't let them say--
"Not that there's anything wrong with that," his father added.
Dammit. You suck, God, Jared thought. Wait, I didn't mean that. Could you...y'know, conjure one of those acts of God you're so famous for? That would be awesome right now. Tornado, earthquake, flood? Burning bush? Just get me out of here.
"After we eat, Jared was going to take us for a carriage ride around Central Park. You're coming, right Jensen?"
"Of course ma'am." Jensen flashed another wide smile at Jared. "I'd love to."
"Great," Jared murmured, glaring through his fixed smile.
The carriage ride was everything Jared had feared. Well, more to the point, everything he'd hoped for when it was just his parents, and now, utter hell. Jensen was taking advantage of Jared'sPDA directive. He seemed to have sprung several new hands just for the occasion. He. Wouldn't. Stop. Touching.
If it wasn't an arm around Jared, it was a brush of lips over his jaw, or fingertips along his thigh. It was driving Jared insane. It wasn't like he hadn't known that Jensen was attractive. Jared wasn't blind, after all. But in the lantern light, with the eyeliner, and the obscenely full lips... Jesus, he was losing his mind. Was he seriously considering Jensen? Mousy, quiet, shy Jensen?
"It would help the charade if you'd kiss me back," Jensen purred, breathing against Jared's throat. He shivered--because it was cold, dammit-- and turned his head towards Jensen.
He wouldn't have expected Jensen to kiss like that, Jared thought stupidly. Jensen should kiss timidly, sweetly. Not like he was going to devour Jared from the mouth down. Jensen's hand slid up his chest to curl around his cheek, holding him close, tilting his head back for a better angle.
It shouldn't be that good, Jared thought wildly. Everything snapped into crystalline focus--Jensen's soft lips, the way his hands cradled Jared. The smell of Jensen's cologne, the heat of his body against the cold air. The way his body tightened, coming to life under Jensen's touch.
God? Yeah, I know. But really, a bolt of lightning would be a big help. Just fry my ass, and save me from this? I mean, in a moment, he's going to notice that the blanket is tenting, and then, I'm going to die of embarrassment.
"Stop thinking so hard," Jensen whispered, biting his earlobe. "Just go with it."
"Boys?" Jared's mom said softly. "We're back."
Jensen lifted his head, grinning like a shark. "Whoops," he murmured, voice full of saccharine insincerity.
Jared smiled at Jensen hoping he looked the part of the besottled boyfriend, when all he wanted to do was pitch Jensen out of the carriage.
Jensen leapt to the pavement, and offered his mother a hand. Dammit! He was supposed to be acting like a self absorbed douche, Jared thought.
Jensen seemed to remember his role as he was helping Jared's mother and once she was on the ground, quickly turned away to take a "phone call."
Jared shrugged at his parents as Jensen walked away growling into the phone. "Must be a work thing," he murmured apologetically.
"Oh, that's all right, sweetheart," his mother assured him. "We're probably going to head back to the hotel. You know us old people, we can't stay out the way we used to."
"Speak for yourself," his father shot back. "I thought I'd like to go hit the bar for a few drinks."
"Somehow, that doesn't surprise me," his mother sniped. "Fine, I'm going to go back to the hotel."
Jared sighed. "Okay. Which bar did you want to go to, Dad?"
"I could give you a lift back to the hotel, Mrs. Padalecki," Jensen offered. "That was my job, anyway. I'm getting called in to work tonight, and the Beekman's only a few blocks from where I need to go."
She nodded, and Jensen led her over to a sleek black motorcycle that Jensen probably had borrowed from Chris, too. Jared pulled Jensen close on the pretext of kissing him good-bye. "Do you even know how to ride that thing?" he muttered.
"Of course I do," Jensen murmured, sliding his arms around Jared. "It's like riding a bike, right?"
"If you get my mother killed-"
"She'll be fine. Trust me," Jensen grinned.
He went back over to Jared's mother and slid off his leather jacket, exposing his lean arms. A fake tattoo wound up his left arm, a tribal pattern. It accentuated Jensen's muscle, stark against his pale skin. Jared found himself wanting to lick it. Jesus, this was so not good.
He almost didn't notice that Jensen had wrapped his jacket around Jared's mother, helping her onto the bike.
Jensen flashed a grin at his father. "Was nice meeting you, dude."
***
"He seems very nice," his mother said over brunch the next day.
Jared nodded blearily and drank his coffee. His father had kept him out at, of all places, a strip club "He's a good guy," he muttered.
"Well, I'm not sure about his connections to the "Family." I mean, i've watched the Sopranos. But if he makes you happy, that's the important part."
"I didn't think you'd like him," Jared admitted.
"A few years ago, I probably wouldn't have. But after all, your grandmother loved your father, and look where we've ended up."
"Mom-"
"That sounded bad. I don't regret it for a minute. You and your sister are your father's and my greatest accomplishment. But I think we hurt you two more by staying together. Your sister jumped into the first relationship she could find, and you...you seem determined not to let anyone close. I'm actually glad to see that you and Jensen are doing well."
Jared flushed guiltily. "Mom, I-"
"Don't start, Jared Tristian Padalecki. Your father and I have been talking about this for a while. We stayed together for you and your sister, but she's at college, and you're here in New York. The fact is, we make much better friends when we don't have to live together."
"I know," Jared admitted softly. "I just--I hate this, Mom. I just wish-"
"If wishes were horses, baby," she said gently, petting his hand.
"So...what are you going to do?"
She smiled, her eyes brightening. "Well, you know your grandmother left us her condo when she passed, so I think I'm going to move in there. Hadn't sold yet anyhow. I think I'm going to go back to school."
"To college?" Jared smiled. "What are you going to study?"
"I was thinking about fashion design. I'd like to open a boutique for real women. The ones who most designers ignore," she said, smiling.
"Jensen and I aren't together," Jared blurted. "And the only Family he works for is the ones who are designing the costumes for my next play."
His mother sipped her coffee and smiled. "I know, sweetheart. He told me last night. We stopped and had a snack at a little Chinese place. Such a nice boy."
"He told-" Jared gaped. "But...I-"
"He's actually the one who convinced me that I should go back to school. You know, that's what he did first, before acting. He went to school at Parsons."
"No, I didn't," Jared said slowly.
"Oh. Well, he got into acting to pay the bills, apparently. Anyway, he told me that you're his friend. And I think he has a little crush on you. No one kisses like that unless there's something behind it." She raised an eyebrow. "Just remember to use protection, dear."
"Mom!"
She laughed, and Jared shook his head, ducking forward to let his hair hide his face. His mother was deluded. Jensen was his friend.
He saw his parents off at the airport the next day, promising to make it down to Texas soon.
****
If Jared was worried about how things would be with Jensen, he needn't have bothered. Jensen was the same as ever, flirting with his co-stars at rehearsal, teasing Jared. He could almost pretend that those smirking lips had never touched his, never devoured him. Except at night, when he was alone. Then, he stopped pretending, and let his mind and his hands wander.
It was agony. Seeing him every day, wanting. And watching him leave every day with one of the other actors who lived near him, laughing, heads close. It was killing him. He kept finding excuses to keep Jensen there.
It came to a head over of all things, a stage kiss. Jensen's co-star, Sophia had strep throat, and Jensen was concerned about the blocking for that scene. So, of course, he grabbed hisboytoy to run through it with, dipping him deeply and planting a wet kiss on his lips.
"Jensen? Could I see you in my office," Jared called.
"Sure, what's up, Jay?"
"Look, you know I don't care what you do in your personal life, but could you not flaunt it on the set?"
"Flaunt it-" Jensen furrowed his brow. Jared debated licking it. "Wait, you mean Chad?"
"Look, I don't care, it's not my business-"
"You're right, it's not. So what the hell is your problem?"
"I just--Jesus, Jensen. People don't need to see you and your flavor of the week practically humping on the stage." God, Jared thought. It's me again. Could you please make my mouth stop moving? If my foot goes any further down my throat,Ima choke.
"So now I'm a slut, too?"
"If the Prada fits, sweetie," Jared said, smirking. God, that wasn't a help, really. How about striking me mute? That would work.
"Fuck you. It didn't seem to bother you when you were begging me to help you. Or what, were you just disappointed that I didn't put out for you?" Jensen snapped. "You know what, fuck you, Jared. I don't need this shit."
"Fuck me? I'm just trying to put on a play! You're the one who seems to be my chorus line's personal escort service." Jared knew the moment the words were out of his mouth that he had Fucked up. With a capital "F." Which also stood for fail. Which he'd just done.
The color drained from Jensen's face, leaving his freckles stark against pale skin. Twin spots of color rose to his cheeks and in the second before he stuck his hands in his pocket, Jared could see them shaking. Still, when he spoke, his voice was quiet, devoid of color. "I quit," he said softly, turning on his heel to go.
Jared gaped, as much at what he'd said as at Jensen. "Wait-" Jared grabbed Jensen's shoulder, tugging. "Jen-"
"No. Fuck you, you hypocritical son of a bitch. It's all fine and dandy when the gay guy can help you out with your fucking dumbass plan, but god forbid they actually be sexual. I've got news for you. That's why it's called homosexual youdicksmack. Does that bother you? I like cock. I like to suck them, I like to be fucked by them. Fucking deal with it."
The mental image of Jensen on his knees, sinful lips wrapped around Jared's cock was so strong for a moment that it took his breath away. It was followed quickly by another one, of Jensen riding him, slick and tight around his cock, eyes closed in bliss.
The door slamming brought him out of his daze, but Jensen wasn't in the hallway when he hurried out, apology on his lips. He wasn't at his apartment either. And he sure as hell wasn't answering his cell phone.
****
The show was getting rave reviews, but Jared didn't care. All that he thought about was Jensen.
Finally, he couldn't take it anymore. It was time to grovel. When he got to Jensen's condo, hee could see a light under the door. At least he was home. He knocked tentatively, hiding behind the giant bouquet of flowers. The door opened, and he peeked out, into a pair of brown eyes. That were definitely not Jensen's jade green. Shit. he had someone there. "Um. I--I'm sorry, I--"
"Ken," a light feminine voice called. "Who is it?"
"I have no idea. Can I help you?"
"I'm sorry. I was looking for a friend of mine. Jensen? About six feet, green eyes, freckles?"
"He moved. We're renting the place. Nice guy. Shame he had to quit Broadway."
"Quit? What do you mean?"
"I didn't really talk to him that much. Maybe Kat knows." He disappeared, replaced by a tiny dark haired woman.
"Hi."
"Hi. Jensen? Yeah, that was really sad. Such a shame. He said he had a growth on his vocal cords. Was going to have to have surgery, and stood a good chance of losing his voice completely."
Jared reeled back. Jensen was sick? "Did he leave a forwarding?"
"Nope. We send the rent to a PO box in San Antonio." She shrugged. "I hope you find him. He seemed really...lonely. Like he could use a friend."
He left, mind reeling. Jensen was sick. A growth? Did they mean like a malignant growth, or just a polyp, or...Jesus, was he dying? Thoughts of "An Affair to Remember" flashed through his head, followed by a mental picture of Jensen, tired and wan, in pain, and alone. Because he, JaredPadalecki, was too chickenshit to admit that he loved Jensen, and that he was jealous.
Whoa, love? That was a hell of a leap to make, he thought. He cared for Jensen, sure. And yeah, he was a little jealous, maybe. Jensen was just so obscenely good looking, and so genuine that he just drew people to him, like moths circling a flame.
Jensen was his friend. And sure, maybe he was attracted to him, but did that mean that he was in love?
Nah. He was just being overly dramatic.
Okay. He had to find Jensen. Maybe Chris or Chad knew--Yeah, right. Like they'd tell him. With all the baleful looks Chad had been giving him, Jared wasn't getting any help there. And Chris--hell, he probably would either punch him or slam the door on his head.
Jared's cell phone chirped, and he dug it out of his pocket, sighing when his mother's number came up. "Hi, Mom," he said, voice dull.
"What's wrong, sweetie?"
Jared sighed. "I screwed up, Momma. I thought I could just pretend for the one weekend, that Jensen and I were together, but then I couldn't go back to just seeing him as a friend. And I got jealous, and I was a douche and he quit the play, and when I tried to find him, he's moved, and he's sick, and I don't know how to find him, and Momma," Jared paused for breath. "I love him."
"Oh, baby." His mother was silent for a moment. "You should come visit," she blurted.
"What? Mom, I-"
"No. I can't explain more than that. I promised. But you need to come visit. I have class on Monday. You could come to that."
"Why?"
"I think you'd find...a lot of things you need there."
Hardly daring to breathe, he asked, "What class is that?"
The smile was evident in his mother's voice. "Costuming for stage and screen."
"I'll be there."
****
Of course, because God was a spiteful God, his flight was late, Jared thought. Why didn't they mention that in the bible? Noo, in the bible, God was always butting in, making rocks spring a leak, or asking guys to sacrifice their kids. But they never mentioned the part where he delayed flights or made traffic jams. Then again, were there traffic jams back then? Maybe oxen cart jams?
Whatever.
He finally got to the school, just before Mom's class was supposed to finish.
The parking lot was jammed, so he parked on the street and jogged to the building, enjoying the warm sun. Back in New York, it was probably still forty degrees, but here in San Antonio, it was already pushing the mid seventies.
Just another reason he missed home.
He got to the room as a stream of twenty-somethings poured out of the classroom. Then, his mother was there, hugging him. "Go ahead in, sweetheart. There's a free period after ours."
"Yes, ma'am."
"And come over for dinner, okay? At seven."
"Okay, momma."
"Good luck, Jared."
"I'll need it."
The classroom wasn't very big. Maybe thirty chairs arranged on three risers. The blackboard held a rather complex-looking drawing of various patternpieces. Or he assumed that's what it was. Either that or a Rorschach blot.
And in front of said Rorschach blot, was a heart-breakingly familiar figure. "Jen," Jared whispered softly.
Whether Jensen heard him, or just saw that someone was walking up to him, Jared wasn't sure, but he lifted his head, jade eyes widening behind glasses he hadn't seen Jensen wear in years. "Jared," he said.
Jared flinched at the raspy voice. "Hey."
"What-" Jensen took a deep breath, and seemed to collect himself. "I think your mom just left, you can catch her if you--"
"I didn't come here for her."
Jensen's jaw tensed. "Why did you come here, then."
"Because I owe you an apology."
Jensen shook his head. "I don't want it. Just go back to New York, Jare. I hear the play got good reviews. Congratulations," Jensen offered, voice bitter.
"Jen, please. What happened?"
"What, you mean this?" He tilted his head back, letting Jared see the thin line of scar tissue down his throat. "Nothing. Just a couple of polyps. Probably from overstraining my voice. But then, it got infected, and they had to clean it out. And here I am."
"I'm sorry," Jared said.
"Fine. Whatever. Are we done? I've got to get ready for my next class."
"I love you."
"What?" Jensen glared at him.
"I love you," Jared repeated. "I was an ass, and I'm sorry, I was jealous, and I suck but I've missed you and-"
"So now you're gay?"
"I-" Jared considered for a moment. "I think I'm Jensen-sexual."
Whatever reaction he thought he'd get, derisive laughter wasn't one of the options. "You're Jensen-sexual? You don't know me. You barely know yourself. You're so damn sure of yourself. You get a boner for a dude, and suddenly, you're ready to fly the rainbow flag? I don't need this kind of shit, Jared."
"Jen, please. I don't-"
"No. Get out of here. There's nothing for you here."
For a moment, Jared considered walking away. Then he shook his head. "Do you want me to grovel? Beg? Tell me, and I'll do it. I'm not leaving, Jen. I love you. And I miss my friend."
"What about sex?" Jensen asked. "You gonna freak out again?"
"Nope. I want you. I want to-" Words failed Jared, and he gave up, pulling Jensen into his arms and bending to press his lips against Jensen's.
For a moment, Jensen tensed, then with a soft noise, he melted against Jared, arms going around his waist, pulling him close. "I missed you."
In lieu of replying, Jared let his tongue tease at Jensen's lower lip, delving lightly into his mouth. To his surprise, his tongue encountered metal. He pulled back, looking down at Jensen curiously. "What the hell?"
Grinning, Jensen stuck out his tongue, revealing the silver bar piercing it. "Turned out, I kinda liked being the bad boy."
"Mmm. I like the sound of that," Jared said, grinning.
End.
