Idea Central

The first song they played was an original of theirs called “Turn Your Love Around. It was funky and groovy. Many people in the jazz club got up and started dancing. Porter had a good smooth voice. Tank couldn't help but move their head to the beat a little and give a soft smile. They completely fell into the song as the They were grooving and very inspired. The minute the chorus started their world exploded. The trumpets, the dancing. All with the added bonus that the entire band sang parts of it with Porter really inspired them. As soon as they sang the lyrics “Turn your love around!” They had found their new favorite song, They also could have sworn they made eye contact with the Bass player.

The next song they played was their song “What You Won’t Do For Love.” Tanker absolutely loved this song. Its vibe was unmatched and they absolutely fell into it. The lyrics were so enthralling and the instruments really encapsulated the emotion. They took a sip of their coffee. Oh they definitely had to come back to this club again.

The next morning they were making coffee, alone in their kitchen, they started humming the song waiting for their coffee to brew. Before they knew it they were doing a mini little dance and singing. “Turn your love around, Don't you turn me down, I can show you how, Turn your love around!” They didn't even realize the entrance of David and the individual whom he was seeing. He called them Angel and they had been around the house quite a bit. Tank thought they were funny, and very good for David. Anyways they hadnt realized they had intruders until they turned around, their coffee now freshly made and starring David in the eyes. He had a lazy smile on his face and his arm around his partner. “Oh- Fuck…”

“Thats a good song, never heard it before… Did you write it?” Angel spoke up, their eyes gleaming.

“No! I uh… I just heard it at this jazz club I'm going to. Lasko suggested it so I went there to drink coffee and listen to some good music.” They knew they were over explaining but they felt it was necessary.

“Is this place safe? Should I go there with you?” David said his features hardening a little bit.

“No… Its fine, its a good environment…” Their cheeks heated up as they thought about the bassist that they definitely didn't want David to see them drooling over.

“Thats great! Oh and super cute dance moves by the way!” Angel beamed up at them and they let out a groan.

They found themself going to this club every wednesday to listen to the music, have a good coffee, and eye fuck the bassist. Wait, scratch that last part. They were not doing that. They just liked to appreciate good looks and talent. Yeah. Thats all. Today they even brought out the upright bass as they played a Louis Armstrong and Duke ellington classic, “It Don’t Mean A Thing.” They sipped their coffee as they listened to the swung rhythm and tapped their foot to the beat.

The next song they performed was Dinah Washington’s “What a difference a Day Makes.” Treasure has a glorious voice that they had grown to swoon to. It was so gorgeous and smooth and they loved every line.

As the music came to an end and the next band went on they decided to stay for a little longer and get themself a coffee. The barista knew them well at this point.

“Glad to see your Bassist today?” He asked. They both loved and hated Guy. He was funny but he had this terrible habit of cracking the wrong jokes at the wrong time.

“Shut it Guy.” They glared at him. “He’s not my bassist and I am pretty sure he doesn't even know that I exist. Besides, a guy in a band can mean no good for me.” They sighed.

“I wouldn't say that he doesn't know about you. And besides he is a good man. Quiet, stubborn, sometimes a bit of an old soul…” Guy continued on.

“Isn't he only 23?” Tank questioned at the mention of him being an old soul.

“Only 3 years older than you.” He smiled at them, “Happy belated Birthday by the way.” He slid them the coffee.”Speaking of the Devil, brace yourself.”

Before Tank could react a man was at their side. A very familiar man. It was Sam. Oh God were they blushing, they were blushing. Crap. They decided to just drink their coffee. “Sam this is Tank, Tank this is Sam.” Guy said as he left to go take more orders. “I think you guys would make great… friends.” Then he was gone. Guy just left them with Sam.

“Hi, Nice to finally meet you.” Sam said Drinking the tea that Guy left out for him.

“What do you mean?” They said looking at Sam.

“Well I’ve noticed you coming to our shows for the past three months. Just thought I’d say ‘Hi.’” He shrugged.

“Oh, I didn't think you would notice.” They looked at him being completely honest.

“Of course I'd notice.” He looked at them and smiled. “Besides I have to admit that I am quite the fan of yours… I saw you play at the D.A.M.N concert and I have to say you were pretty fantastic. Been checkin out your music since then… Its pretty good.” He said, his thick southern drawl igniting something deep inside of them.

“You like my- our songs? You’ve… wow, that's.” They paused, clearing their throat. “That’s cool… Which one is your favorite?”

“Hmm, ‘For What It’s Worth’ Is definitely one of my top picks…” He said, he was really contemplating this question. Tank was surprised he chose this song as one of his favorites. This was one of the first songs they ever wrote. It had a special place in their heart and he definitely wasn't lying about liking their music. “Gold Dust Woman…” He said, finality in his tone. He really seemed to like this song. “The harmonies just blend so well together, and the way the instruments tell the story with the vocals, it's just amazing. Also the lyrics hit close to home…” He smiled at them. They knew that they hadn't written this song, David had, but the fact that he liked any song they performed made their cheeks flush. “So… you’ve been listening to us for a while… Do you have a favorite of ours?”

“That's so difficult! I mean they’re all so great!” Tank said running a hand through their hair trying to think of their favorite. “The first song I heard of yours was Turn your love around so that one will always have a special place in my heart. However, I think Cry Me A River hit close to home. I definitely can't get it out of my head.” They ran their finger along the rim of their coffee cup.

FLASHBACK

“Thanks for meeting me here, Precious.” Quinn gave Tanker one of his signature smiles that before now would have melted their heart. Now it simply pissed them off.

“What do you want? And be fast, I have somewhere to be.” They checked their watch as they leaned against the railing of the bridge they were on.

Quinn did not like being rushed, even worse he hated when people seemed disinterested in him rather than fawning over him. He leaned in closer to them. “Well I asked you to meet me here Precious because I just hate how things ended between us. You know how sensitive Vega can be.”

“No. I don’t. Still looking for a bassist?” They asked knowing that it would push his buttons. They now took to examining their nails. He gritted his teeth and pulled out a box of cigarettes. He offered them one.

“Want to smoke with me?” He titled the box down to them.

“No thanks. I don’t smoke anymore.”

“You don’t do a lot of things anymore. You’ve changed. Someone has changed you haven't they? Listen, you cannot still be mad at me for what went down.” He tried to sound sweet but to them it was just suffocating.

“I’m not mad, just not stupid. I don’t have to be mad at you to not like you.” They smirked at him. “Is that all you had to say?”

“I want you back, Precious. You were a great thrill to have around and without you life is boring. Besides you need me don’t you? I mean who will give you as much fire, passion and talent as me?”

“I don’t need you. You don't miss me at all. You miss having a play thing. You don’t really feel things quinn and I believe that with my whole heart.” They said standing up and beginning to head back to their bike.

“That's a shame. I hope everything ends well for your one friend's partner… The stagemanager one, you know the one dating Lasko.”

“What do you want Quinn?” They turned, their eyes deadly.

“I want you to give me one night to prove to you that you need me. Or they can kiss their job goodbye.” He smirked at them as he shoved his hands in his pockets.

“If anything happens to them Quinn, I'll beat your brakes off myself and feed you to starving lions for fun.” They headed back to their bike.

“This isn't the end, Precious.”

“I know. You need me.” They spat back at him driving off.

END OF FLASHBACK

“Hmm That's one of the ones I wrote, quite some time ago.” Sam said with a small smile as he took a sip of his tea.

“Well then you’re something of a lyrical genius.” They smiled into their coffee cup.

“Thank You Darlin.” He said, his southern drawl thick. They knew there was nothing behind the pet name but they couldn't deny the way their heart started racing. Still they shrugged it off.

“No problem.” They had now finished their coffee. They looked at Sam again as they heard his name be called from across the jazz club.

“Sam! Stop flirting and get over here! We wanna go home!” It was Fred yelling out. Vincent smacked him on the back of the head as the rest of the members slightly chuckled. Porter, though, was too busy trying to mess with Treasure to realize what was being said.

Sam sighed heavily and shook his head, grabbing his tea. “I hope to see you around again.” He offered Tank a soft smile. They smiled back at him and waved as he walked off.

________

Turn Your love Around- George Benson

What you won’t do for love- Bobby Caldwell

It Don’t Mean a Thing- Louis Armstrong/Duke Ellington

What A Difference A Day Makes- Dinah Washington

For What It’s Worth- Buffalo Springfield

Gold Dust Woman- Fleetwood Mac

“Welcome back. What did ya get me, I'm starving.” Asher called from his spot on the couch. David walked over and dropped the food off on the coffee table, before sitting on the recliner. The boys grabbed at their food taking what was theirs, the only thing left being Tank's food. David's knee bounced as he looked at Tanker expectantly.

“Hey,” David said, he tried to come off in a soft tone but his voice came out gravelly and rough. “You gotta eat something.” He reached his hand over to the bag and Asher moved to the opposite end of the couch so David could move to sit right next to them. They turned and looked him in the eye before curling up into themself.

“I thought…” Their voices broke off and came out in a whisper. “I thought he was…I was different. I thought he actually liked me.” It seemed as if the strong fighter that David knew his whole life was breaking down in front of him. Tanker didn't like feeling this vulnerable, this weak. They needed to retreat back into what they knew. What they were comfortable with. They needed to fall back into that shell but they couldn't. It was as if they were trapped in a box and couldn't break down a wall on any side of them. “I wanted to be special…”

David could feel his heart shatter at their words. He quickly dropped to his knees in front of them and grabbed their hands. “Tank, You. Are. Special. You are special to me, to Asher, to Milo and I know that we aren't Quinn. I know that, but honestly fuck that stupid piece of shit. He doesn't know how to appreciate the good things in front of him” He hugged them tight, “I am so sorry I didn't make you feel special like I should have. You are irreplaceable Tanker.”

He could feel them shaking in his arms, trembling. Then his shoulder was wet. They were crying. They never cried like that in front of him before. He just held them. He held them like his world depended on it because right now, he was pretty sure it did.

Around an hour later all of their food was gone, and Marie had arrived to check out Tanker. She definitely gave Tank a stern talking to, one that was needed but hit pretty hard considering the timing. They laid in bed for quite some time. David went out with Asher and Milo to set up for the concert, and Tank chose to arrive on their motorcycle. They had missed about six concerts now, since what had occurred at their last one.

FLASHBACK

Quinn had been sending Tank messages non-stop. It was always the same, “Come back,” and “It wasn't that serious.” then “You need me.” Tank had ignored the texts, always thinking that Quinn was just a crazy bastard.

“Hey let's get pumped up!” Asher said backstage. He had been hopping around and full of energy as usual.

“Calm down Ash.” Milo laughed as Asher accidentally wacked him.

“Alright get ready everyone.” David said hopping from side to side getting ready to run on. Thats when it fell. A Sandbag fell down from the top of the stage heading directly for David. Luckily Tank saw and managed to push him out of the way but their nerves had skyrocketed.

“What the hell was that?” Tank yelled. “He could have been killed!”

The stage manager immediately went to see what happened but David, while the sandbag didn't hurt him the fall did. Tank felt sick, they just hurt their brother as they looked down at him holding his ankle.

As they packed up the van after opening for the band a stage hand ran out with a letter and handed it to Tank. They looked at it and it read…

“Enjoy my little gift. Keep ignoring me Precious, I just love that.”

END OF FLASHBACK

They had hoped that things would be better and decided to return for this upcoming concert. They got to the venue dressed and ready and started setting up. They were headlining for a new group called D.A.M.N. they were like an indie rock group. Tank had heard a few of their songs and they loved their song “I Wanna Be Yours” The lead singer Gavin gave it a particularly interesting vibe and their keyboardist called Freelancer was just a star.

They unpacked their guitar and began setting everything up. They plugged in their amp and double checked everything. They were good to go, ready to start up the concert. They waited backstage with DxW for the concert to start. Fans were cheering and they started to pump themselves up. Then it started, they were announced and they ran onstage. The first song of their set was a song that they wrote shortly after gabes passing. “Don't Fear The Reaper.” They loved this song particularly because of the cowbell. David hated it but they loved that he hated it. The band went back and forth everyone exchanging different lines to sing and the crowd was going wild. They decided for their second song to play “Crocodile Rock” Asher had written this one and he was so proud of it. He loved the idea of having a fun dancing song in the middle to lift peoples spirits, and everyone loved his singing. He was such a charming lead singer. The final song they were going to perform was “Hotel California” This song was Tankers baby. Everything about this song was carefully decided by them and the lyrics told a story that had seemed to happen to them in a dream. Getting lost and then being trapped and escaping something that you thought you would be stuck in forever.

The fans went wild as soon as Tanks guitar solo came up. People started screaming and they absolutely loved the feeling, they were shining like a star. After they finished the band could hear fans screaming and asking for Tankers number. They all evacuated the stage and then stayed to listen to D.A.M.N. The two bands ended up talking to each other and sharing their dislike for The Vamps. One of the members named Lasko, ended up recommending Tanker go to this Jazz club. He said he learned a lot about music from a particular band their, even if Lasko was just their manager. Tank agreed to check the band out, apparently they were called The Fangs.

——————

Songs used

I wanna be yours- Arctic Monkeys

Don’t Fear The Reaper- Blue Oyster Cult

Crocodile Rock- Elton John

As the relationship grew on, DxW’s fame grew as well, Tank and Quinn saw each other less. When they did he would get irritable, and they would fight. Sometimes he would physically take it out on them, other times he would verbally abuse them. He became a loose cannon, one that really irked a certain band member of his, Vega. Vega hated how Quinn treated Tank and even brought this up to Quinn himself.

“This isn't okay, Quinn. They are quite literally ten years younger than you. You’ve groomed them, abused them, and indoctrinated them into crap that's gonna hurt them like hell.” Vega scolded as he turned Quinn to face him. Lying next to Quinn on the couch was Tank, spacing out, high out of their mind and tripping out so bad they wanted to cry. It was a bad high as most of them were.

“Whatever Vega. You don’t like it leave.” Quinn sneered at Vega.

“Shit…” Tank said sitting up fast as they felt their phone alarm chime. “I gotta get home…” Their words slurred and their eyes were watering.

“Hold on, Precious, Take this it’ll help.” Quinn said, handing them pills from his pocket. Trusting him they swallowed the pills, receiving a deep kiss from Quinn. Vega quickly pulled them out from under Quinn, giving the pale man a sharp glare.

“I’m done with your shit Quinn. Find a new bass.” He lifted them up in his arms and brought them out of the room and to his car. The leather seats felt cold but that started to be the least of their concern as they began to feel even worse. They could hear distant sounds of Vega telling them to hold on and that they would be fine. They didn't even know how much time had elapsed before they were being picked up again. They could hear a knock on the door before hearing familiar voices.

“Hello- Tank? What the hell?!” David yelled out which caused the rest of the band to run to the door as well. “What the hell did you do?”

“Its a bad trip. Quinn gave them-” Vega began but David cut them off.

“Quinn? That bastard did this? How the hell, they were supposed to be in their room…” Asher finally interjected. “Get them in here, put them down on the couch.” He spoke with finality in his tone. Moving to the side to let Vega in the house. Vega was scarily aware of when the door behind him shut. It was shut by the shortest one there, who had a deadly look on his face. Ash and David moved over to the couch to be closer to Tank. They began to shake and get nervous, obviously having the full effect of the dissociative as they mumbled unintelligible ramblings.

“They took some…” He reached into his pocket to pull out the pill package,“I'm not sure how much he gave them, but it’s Dextromethorphan. Look, I.. I’m sorry about all of this… They’ve been seeing Quinn for the past six months. I told them… it doesn't matter what I told them. They should be fine, just keep an eye out for them.”

“And why isnt that bastard here himself?” The short one with the sharp accent spoke.

“He… He didn't see an issue with it. I did.” Vega answered plainly. He began to make his way toward the door, pausing before stepping out the door. “They’re a good kid…” With that he left out the door leaving Tank in the arms of David who sat behind them to try to restrain them and get them to calm down.

“It's okay Tank… You’re okay…” Ash tried to speak to them softly.

“Goddamnit Tanker. Your ass is in so much trouble.” David gritted through his teeth, worry overcoming every other emotion evident in his tone.

Milo paced around the room as Tank shook and started sobbing in David's arms rambling something no one could understand. He could only make out a few words from their ramblings, “M sorry… Ga…be… ‘m sorry…”

It took them a while to calm down enough to be coherent again. By now the sun was rising again, and they were coming to on the couch, laying against the arm of the chair. In front of them was David, his arms crossed and his eyes dead set on them. Asher was in the corner in the lounge chair his head cradled in his hands. Milo was on the phone with his mom. Tank could hear him giving her a check up on their condition.

“How are you feeling?” David asked. His eyes looked tired and his tone was stern, with a hint of worry. He ran his hand through his hair and let out an exasperated sigh.

“I…” Their voices came out shakier than they intended. “I’m fine…” Their words were slurred as they still had a few lingering effects.

“What the hell were you thinking?” David asked, his voice breaking a little bit. It was then that Tank realized just where they were. They sat up quickly, their eyes watering. They felt like they had been thrown in cold water. They had bad highs before. They'd taken hits before. But nothing compared to the pain that they saw on their bandmates faces. On their family's faces. They realized now the impact that Quinn not only had on them, but also the people they cared about.

“I’m sorry… I thought.” Their voices cracked as they began to cry. “I thought he liked me… I thought I was special.”

“No Tank. An asshole like him will never see anyone as special!” He gritted his teeth. Right now, David was pissed at a lot of things. He was pissed at Tanker for being so reckless. He was pissed at himself for not being more on top of them. Most of all, he was pissed at Quinn for being such a malicious motherfucker. “I told you he wasn't a good person. In fact, I told you to stay away from him.”

Tank didn't say anything… After all, what could they say? They simply sat and took it as David yelled at them. The couch seemed to envelope them and swallow them whole as they sat further into it. David started pacing around the living room as his yelling continued.

“David… I think they got the point for now…” Asher spoke up, setting his hand down on David's shoulder. David sighs and shakes his head as he grabs his car keys. Everyone in the dimly lit room freezing, waiting to see what his next move was.

“I’m going to get some food… does anyone want anything?” Running his fingers through his hair, David’s eyes scanned around the room, as he wrote down Milo, and Ashers orders. He looked at Tank and they shook their head no. “I’ll grab you something, in case you change your mind.”

He walked out the door and jumped into his truck. It was his dad’s old 1966 all black Chevrolet truck. It was a generational car. It had been passed down from his grandpa, to his dad… and now to him. He pulled into the fast food restaurant, parking and locking the car. He walked into the establishment walking into the line, thinking about how he met his current partner.He was just standing in that same spot when he noticed a familiar figure in front of him. This was a person that he kept seeing more and more recently. They would be in the store,at the bar he went to, hell he’d even seen them at the park when he went jogging. They turned around their eyes meeting his dark ones. They looked him up and down, looking at his black ripped jeans, his white shirt and leather jacket, adorned with a silver chain with dog tags and a few silver rings.

“Why are you following me?” His voice came out harsher than he originally intended. What did this person want with him? Were they a stalker? A fan? There was no way this could just be a coincidence right?

“Why would you think I was following you huh?” They peered up at him through their doe eyes, a devious grin plastered on their face.

“Because you’re everywhere I am, dumbass… What? Did you think I wouldn't notice? I have eyes.” He glared down at them. Now that he was able to get a better look at them, they were pretty attractive, but he wouldn't fall for their looks, it could all be a trap for him.

“Why do you think I would be following you?” They said feigning innocence.

“Well, if I knew why you might be following me,I wouldn't have asked, and that question wasn't rhetorical. What do you want?”

“Chill out there tiger, I don’t want anything from you. Maybe we just keep ending up in the same places.” They try to calm him down.

“Oh so we just keep ending up in the same places… Convenient.” He rolls his eyes at them.

“Convenient that you get to see me again?” They said, obviously flirting with the stranger.

“I meant the explanation is convenient, not the experience. You little snot.”

“And why might someone be following you around? Are you special or something?” They smiled up at him and batted their eye lashes.

“Well, it's none of your damn business why someone might follow me around. Wouldn't you like to know, if you don't already.”

“Maybe it's a lucky coincidence.” They say smiling up at him.

“Oh, we got a comedian over here. Look if it was once, that's a coincidence. Twice, alright, whatever, apparently we live in the same area. Three times, I don’t buy it.”

“But I showed up first, the second time and the third time, and right now.”

“It doesn't matter who showed up first each of the times, we were both there. Clearly, you were following me.”

“Maybe you were the one following me.”

“I was not following you! Why would I follow you?”

“Wouldn't you like to know!” They smiled devilishly, as they moved further forward in the line.

“Oh wouldn't I like to- Look, I don't know what you're trying to do here, but I’m gonna find out. By keeping an eye on you.”

“Ah Well in that case, do you wanna have lunch with me?” They smiled up at him.

“Excuse me? No I don't want to- well yes I am here for lunch but why would I have lunch with you? I can keep an eye on you from a distance. Preferably, driving away and hoping you don’t follow me.” He paused for a long moment. “You know what fine. I will have lunch with you, but only because I want to figure out what the fuck you’re up to.” He said looking at them skeptically. After everything that happened today he wasn't in the mood to deal with anymore shit.

“Ask me then.” They gave him a grin reminiscent of the cheshire cats.

“Ask you? You wish! You just asked me and I said yes. That's as good as you're gonna get! Now go up and order, dumbass.”

It took a while for all of the food David ordered to come out. Which gave them the perfect amount of time to become more well acquainted. David was able to gauge that they were not a threat and didn't know who he was. However, they were a terrible flirt. “Thank you but don’t think that compliments are gonna make me trust you. I’m not that easy.”

“Oh but you are easy?” They winked at him as they leaned forward placing their head in their hand.

“I’m not easy at all. Get your head out of the gutter.” He growled out.

“Ooh you’re getting flustered.”

“I am not getting flustered. And you are not the one in control of this conversation.” He glared at them, his face getting red. They talked to each other in a circle before David decided to change the topic. “What's your name?”

“What's your name?” They shot back at him, earning a chuckle from the large man.

“I’ll tell you mine if you tell me yours.” He smiled as they told him their name. “David’s mine. I’d say nice to meet you but that remains to be seen.”

“There’s a lot of me that remains to be seen.” They say in a sing-songy tone, gesturing to their body.

He rolled his eyes at them. There was an air around them that comforted him and that was also extremely alluring to him. It was like he was stuck in a losing battle. After a few more jokes he clears his throat, deciding to take a risk. “Well that's about as lighthearted as I get so if that doesn't work for you. Consider that when I ask my next question.”

“Oh? And what might that question be?” They mused at him, wiping their mouth lightly with a napkin.

“Oh, I’m so glad you asked. You are annoying and you’re mouthy… and I wouldn't mind getting to know you better. If you wouldn't…” They smiled at him so brightly and he knew he was already so lost on them.

QUINN: Hey Precious, you didn't stick around the other night? Was it that you wanted to stand me up, or your brootish brother was hiding you away?

Tank smiled to themself and bit their lip. They slightly laughed at Quinns descriptor of David

TANK: We had to leave pretty quickly unfortunately… T-T

QUINN: Well, I have another gig tonight if you wanted to show… But if you don't, I'll just assume you hate me ;)

TANK: I don’t have band practice tonight so I could… but I don’t have a ride and I’d have to sneak out… seems like too much trouble…

QUINN: What are you afraid of a little trouble?

TANK: No…

QUINN: I’ll come pick you up… Text me your address and I’ll be there by 7:30 precious.

Tank smiled to themself as they sent him their address. This was their chance to get close to him, to get to know the singer they had been such a fan of since they were fifteen. They quickly got dressed and ready to go, taking a little more care than usual into what they looked like. Opening their window they scanned their room once more before crawling out. Lights beamed directly at them, flickering on and off twice, just as they told Quinn to do. They walked over to the all black Rolls Royce and quickly got in.

“Hello Precious.” Quinn smiled at them. “Have a fun time crawling through your window?”

“Oh, it was thrilling.” They spoke sarcastically as they fastened their seatbelt. Quinn drove off shortly after that.

“So, how long have you been playing?” Quinn asked as he peeked over at them through the corner of his eyes.

“I’ve only been playing electric guitar for about a year and a half… but I’ve been playing acoustic for about six years…” They spoke using their hands to add emphasis to their words.

“Ahh so you’re pretty fresh to the scene then? Want some advice?” Quinn smiles over at them.

They look at him for a moment, their eyes turning bright, THE Quinn Fox was offering them advice. “Sure.” they nodded trying to play it cool.

“If a devilishly handsome musician from a pretty famous band asks you to go somewhere, you say no. Unless of course that man is me.” He smiled at them cheekily. “Some men out there want the wrong things and use their fans. Not me though. I see your true talent…. You are truly remarkable, Tank.”

They felt their face flush as they nodded at his words. Their bright orbs staring into his oddly dark ones. “Okay…”

The concert went on as usual and Quinn performed with such charisma that anyone would fall for him. “Temptation eyes, Looking through my, my, my soul.” Quinn sung out and glanced over at Tank smirking at them, as if he was singing to them. After the show they waited backstage in his dressing room for him.

They looked around at the posters and costumes set up in the room. They heard the familiar turning of the door knob and sat up properly, waiting for the band to enter. Once they did, Quinn took the liberty of introducing everyone.

“Alright everyone this is Tanker from that group that opened for us a few days ago, DxW… And Tank This is Kody, our Drummer.” He said pointing over to Kody, a man with Tan skin and dark blue hair, his eyes were an icy blue and he looked at Tank with an off putting smile. “This is Blake, our Electric Guitarist.” He pointed at a rather plain looking man, he had brown hair and a piercing on his lip, however, his dark brown eyes sent a shiver down Tank's spine, their instincts telling them to run. “And this ray of sunshine is our bass guitarist Vega.” He looked over his shoulder at the man with magenta locks and hazel eyes. The man was sat up in the corner taking a long drag of his cigarette, already separating himself from the group. He didn't seem as scary as the others.

“Ever had a cig?” Quinn asked Tank as he sat down next to them on the couch and put his arm around them.

“No… I don’t smoke really…” Uncertainty rang out in their tone as Quinn handed them the lit cigarette.

“Well we can't have that now can we? How about you give it a go?” He nudged them on the shoulder as they took the cigarette. “It's easy…just suck and blow.” He spoke in a flirty tone as he leaned closer to them, “You can do that can’t you?” His lips ghosted across their ear, sending chills down their spine.

They nodded, taking the cigarette into their mouth, they inhaled the smoke and fell into a coughing fit, their cheeks turning red. The group around them laughed and their faces heated up with embarrassment. They quickly handed the cigar back to Quinn.

“Aww can’t handle a little puff pup.” Kody spoke in a gross intoxicating voice.

“Don’t you fucking call me that.” Tank spoke firmly, their tone low.

“Ooh a feisty little rat you brought along Quinn.” Kody huffed out a laugh. “I bet they’d be fun to play with.” Kody moved over to and reached a hand out for them before it was whacked away.

“Have some fucking tact, asshat.” A smooth voice spoke. Tank looked up to meet Vega, his cigarette hanging loosely from his lips as he glared at Kody. “This kid is like half your age, don’t play with them like that…”

“Ever the protector of justice is our Vega,” Quinn spoke patronizingly, sarcasm dripping from his voice. “Relax Vega, their nineteen. They’re an adult, old enough to make their own choices.”

“Barely…” Vega mumbles under his breath.

After Quinn dropped them back home Tank tried to sneak through their window as quickly and as quietly as possible.They slid up the window and swung their leg over the ledge, pulling themself through. They made it in, safely, and presumably unsuspected. They quickly turned around and shut the window, making sure to latch it shut. That's when their bedroom light flicked on. They didn't dare turn around to face who caught them.

“Have fun Kiddo?” Gabes voice echoed through their room. His tone indicated that he was not genuinely asking and he was actually quite upset.

“Gabe, Uhm Hi…?” Tank asked, sweating bullets. They finally turned around to face him to see him leaning in their doorway.

“Hi.” He spoke out as he moved two steps into their room, shutting the door behind him.

“What's up?” Tank said folding their arms and biting their lip, a dead giveaway that they were nervous.

“What's up is that when I knocked on my child's door at eight, they didn't answer, so I walked in the room to make sure they were okay, and they weren't there. Crazy Right?” He folded his arms, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “So naturally I go to David to ask if he knew of any plans they had, and guess what? He Didn't. But he did let me know that they were possibly out with a famous rockstar almost double their age. So I waited in their room until.” He paused to check his watch. “Around 4:33am when they tried sneaking back into their bedroom. That's what's up, Tanker.”

“I’m Sorry, I should've told you, I just didn't want you to freak out, or say no.” They said sitting on their bed.

“And I would've said no. You should not be hanging out ALONE with four fully grown men.” He said, giving them a stern look.

“Dad, I’m nineteen years old. I’m an adult.” They said huffing and rolling their eyes..

“Okay First, drop the attitude. And Second, even IF you think you qualify as an ‘Adult’ you will always be my kid.” He moved closer to them, sitting on their bed. “I don’t approve of you hanging out with them alone. I have a bad feeling about it. But since you are an adult I can’t physically stop you. Please be smart. I know you can be.”

“Dad, I’m literally just hangin. I’m smart enough to think for myself! I’m not an idiot.”

“I know you aren't an idiot, I just want you to use your brain here! I don’t want you to get hurt.” He said in a slightly exhausted tone.

“Well, I’ll be fine. I can take care of myself. They wouldn't hurt me dad. Besides, David is probably much too scary for them to even think about hurting me.” They joked.

“Kid, I’m serious, I don't trust them.” He stands up and moves to the door.

“I’m literally fine. It's whatever, I’m just gonna go to bed.” They roll their eyes and lay down.

“We’ll talk about this later.” He says as he closes their door. They knew they were already infatuated with Mr.Fox and wanted to spend as much time with him as they could. Something about him made them feel special.

Tank only fell deeper in with Quinn after Gabes passing. The whole Band was on the way back from a concert, Gabe deciding to drive the truck, leaving the Band in the bus. As they were passing a light, a Drunk driver failed to stop and crashed head on into his truck. Tank remembers running out of the bus, alongside David and rushing over to Gabe. By the time they got to him he was already too far gone. He couldn't speak, couldn't move, he only smiled at them, tears rushing down his cheeks, as he drifted off to sleep for the last time. Tank stopped including themself in the group outside of concerts and band practice. Milo ended up bringing in his partner as the band's new manager to help the transition from Gabe running everything.

Things continued like this for the next few months, Tank would sneak out and meet up with Quinn and his band. Fortunately, DxW was also growing in popularity, so they played more gigs which allowed Tank to slip away easier since everyone was so tired. Slowly the group introduced Tank to a whole new attitude and way of life, As well as a few substances to kickstart their addiction both to the band and to the drugs.

Quinn also began getting more physically intimate with Tank. He would find himself being close to them, and even kissing them often before it would branch out into full on makeout sessions. The first time Quinn kissed Tank they were both sitting on the couch. He slowly leaned over and let his lips touch theirs. His lips were dry and hot and it never felt right but again, Tank was addicted to Quinn. Addicted to finding out his deepest darkest secrets. Addicted to the attention. Addicted to knowing someone who seemed to want them.

—————

Tank had not intended to join the “family” band either. It was more of something that happened to them. One day while paroling the house they saw that one of David's old electric guitars was left out in the living room. The black guitar with red paint splattered on it, giving the impression of blood, was so appealing to Tank they simply couldn't resist. They had practiced acoustic guitar, but had little experience on electric. They only remembered what little their father taught them when he attempted to play, the instrument never sounding right in his hands.

They picked it up, it was already plugged into the amp, and looked around the room. Pausing for a moment, waiting to hear if anyone had come into the house, they were pleased to find that they were still home alone. David and Gabe left for a meeting for their band. David was the drummer, Asher was the singer, and Milo played bass. Their old electric guitarist, Asher's sister, left for a different band. The first few notes they strummed on the guitar sent electricity through their veins. They strummed again, becoming obsessed with the sound. It fully represented them, their thoughts, feelings, their whole being. They began strumming out the chords to an AC/DC song their dad tried playing, thunderstruck. It was the a simple standard they knew how to play on electric.

The music soared from the guitar and filled the room. Tank started playing with the strings and improving their own melodies. They were so wrapped up in the song that they didn't hear Gabe and David enter the house. They didn't see the pair walk into the living room. The sound enveloping the house was completely theirs, like they owned the instrument. No one could replicate the way they played. Even if they weren't perfect at it they were still so alluring.

As Tank strummed the last chord on the guitar, Gabe stepped forward and applauded. Their head snapped up, fiery eyes meeting his warm ones. A slight blush spread across their face and they quickly stepped away and set the guitar on the soft green couch next to them.

“I… I… sorry…” They mumbled out. “I wont touch it again…”

“No! Don’t say sorry. In fact, you were quite good. Ever played before now kid?” Gabe asked moving over to pick up David's old guitar.

“No… not really. I mean I've been playing acoustic guitar a little, or I used to with my da… with you know.” They kicked their feet on the hardwood floor..

“Well my band is looking for a guitarist. I'm sure Dad would be willing to teach you. He taught Asher's sister.” David said, nudging Tanker with his shoulder.

“Me?” Tank asked.

“Absolutely! I will! You’re in the band Tank!” Gabe cheers as he wraps an arm around Tank. “I’ll start teaching you tomorrow.”

That is how they ended up where they were now. On a large stage opening for a band that Tank has been a fan of for a while now. They were called Tooth&Fang. Tank was practically in love with Quinn, the lead singer. He was attractive and very, very charismatic.

As their set came to a close as David rattled the symbol one final time. The whole band waved as Asher yelled out one final time.

“Thank you everyone! We are DxW! You have a good night!” He and the band ran off stage, high fiving one another. Tank stood on the outside avoiding the three’s cheers.

“Hello~” A sly voice spoke into Tank's ear. Tanks eyes widened, immediately recognizing the voice. They pivoted to see the mischievous grin on the face of Quinn Fox, the lead singer they're practically in love with. “Well aren't you, a spitfire. You played that electric like a star, precious.”

Tank was on cloud nine. Quinn even offered to meet them in his dressing room after the show.

“No.” David said, crossing his arms and leaning against the wall in the alley way. The band was packing their equipment up in their van.

“What? Why not? He literally just wants to meet up!” Tank pleaded, waving their arms about.

“No. No super famous 28 year old rockstar wants to meet with a 19 year old, just to chat and hang out. I've heard about his reputation…”

“But you haven't seen his reputation have you. You haven't experienced it first hand. You have no idea whether or not it's true!” They pointed their finger into David's chest, knowing it would irritate him.

“Tank. No. And get your finger off my chest dumbass.” David's eyes lit up with anger.

“I'm going. I am 19 fucking years old. I am old enough to choose what I am gonna do with and where I am going to spend my time.” They pivoted on their heels and began walking back inside.

“Tank stop!” David yelled at them before crossing his arms and standing firm. “I’ll tell Dad.”

Those three words stopped Tanker in their tracks. Was he serious? He was going to rat on them and play tattle tail. Furrowing their brows and balling their hands into fists they walked back over to David. “I hate you.”

“Mr.Greer, this isn’t the first time you’ve been in this room.” They said as they propped themself up in the corner of the room. They sat backwards on a chair arms resting against the back of it and facing him.

“Well, I hope for both my joy and yours, it ain’t the last.” He said with a grin that could knock the detective clear off their feet, but this was business and they had to handle work first. “However, usually folks take each other out to dinner before they break out the handcuffs.” He winked at them.

“Very funny Mr.Greer, nevertheless you have answers that I want.” They sighed as they moved to the table and lifted the tan colored file off of it. It’s pages scrapped lightly against their fingers.“How was your night last night?”

“Was quite fun, I went out with some friends, got into some trouble. Why you wanna join me?” He winked at them, picking up on the way their hands squeezed the file a little tighter and their eyes darted away from him.

“I need you to give me exact locations Greer. Because let me tell you, the evidence, is not in your favor…” they sighed pinching at the bridge of their nose.

“It never is, yet somehow you never have enough to pin me… unless you’re so infatuated that you’ve been letting me go every time in hopes to see me again.” He smiled at them. His accent thick, his charm thicker. So thick they felt as though they would suffocate from it. Maybe they wanted too… but they couldn’t.

“We’ll let me tell you what I have. A notorious member of the shade gang is found dead from an alley way you were seen leaving about 20 minutes before. You look like hell. You’re bloody, bruised. Hell you even got a gunshot wound in your abdomen” They set the file down on the table and put their arms against it. Their warm hands a stark contract of the cold mahogany. “Just what did you do last night.”

He smiled at them and leaned back in his chair. His gelled hair swooping over his face and his gold earrings reflecting the harsh light back in the detectives eyes. “Which one kicked the bucket? Was is the one that was buggin you a few days ago?” He didn’t need confirmation, he already knew that’s who laid dead in the alley.

He waited for that man to head back home from the bar he was at and pulled him in the alley. It was a bloody beating and Milo was winning until the guy pulled out a gun and shot him. What a sore loser, having to cheat like that. Nonetheless, Milo finished the job and tried to clean himself up, but about 30 minutes later, detectives arrived at his house.

The stealth rolled their eyes pinched their nose again to hide the fact that they bit their lip. “That doesn’t matter. Greer. Tell me what I need to know. Why did you kill that man and how?”

Milo smiled, he was completely smug as he leaned forward, his face mere inches from theirs. “I could ask for a lawyer ya know. But you’re lucky I like talkin to ya.” He then glanced to the side and saw the box of cigarettes on the table. “Can I get a light, detective?”

“Will you talk?” They said reaching into their pockets.

“Maybe, I’ll definitely talk to you, but about what I can’t say.” He smiled as they put the cigar in his mouth and promptly lit it. “So when can I take ya out?”

“For a date or with a gun?” They shot back at him as they started walking around the room. He laughed at their response and spoke again.

“It’s be easier to have this cigarette if my hands were in cuffs. Can I have just one of ‘em back?” He looked up at them with fake puppy dog eyes.

“Give me something and I’ll give you something.”

“Okay, fine I was in the alley last night. And I did see your corpse” He nodded over to the cuffs for them to release one of his hands. They did as promised and sat on the table in front of him. “But I didn’t see your man. I left an entire twenty minutes before he was found. And the wounds I got ere are from a bar fight I got into on the wrong side of town.” Their face fell as they couldn’t argue with what he just said. They had no way to prove his story was true unless.

“Do you have a witness for it?” They said raising their eyebrow at him.

“You wanna being in Gabriel Shaw?” He smirked as he rested his arm on the table. “I know you want this lead but, Sweetheart, Mr.Shaw is a hard man to reach, very busy.”

They smiled at him and crossed their arms. “I think I’ll take that chance Mr.Greer. Oh and don’t misbehave while I’m gone.”

It was always funny, to Tank at least, whenever Angel would get into these fits. It would always be so hard to pull them out of it until they got a clear answer.

“Eh I think you should conclude that Milo is a bit worse than Ash. He’s okay but if you put him in a halo game, Ash has got him beat easily.” Tank yawned into their hand. “Not to mention if you put them in a horror game together.”

Angels eyes lit up with excitement. They had never thought of doing that but knew that it would be entertaining nevertheless. They walked over to the large leather couch and plopped down next to Tank.

“You really think we could make that happen?” Angels eyes beamed with anticipation. No doubt they were already scheming what to do next.

“I’m sure if he lost a bet we could.” Tank nodded and shrugged it away.

The night hadn’t been too bad this far. David, Ash, Cristian and Milo had gone out on a gig to help the department with some underground cult or something. DUMP needed brawn and the pay they provided was too good to pass up.

Since Tank was currently out of commission due to working the past two nights and refusing to tell Sam about a “small” ankle injury, David refused to let them go and instead had them stay with Angel.

Speaking of the Devil, or rather, Angel, they were now inserting a movie, it was Bambi. They loved the classic colors of the film and the adorable little cartoon animals.

~~~~~~~~

The small group of shifters blended in well with the department staff as they breached the cultist base. They walked through the cold cement building, it was only lit up by candlelight.

They soon arrived to a large wenge door, it was covered in scratches and red paint, making out faint markings of what looked to be a skull on a dagger. They slowly opened the large door to reveal the cult leader, who spun around in his chair in all evil villain fashion.

“Ah welcome, welcome friends.” He smiled at them menacingly.

“Blake. It’s over.” Sweetheart walked into the room, past the wolves.

“Maybe it’s over for now. But, not for me.” He let out a dark chuckle, glancing over to David. “You see I have been working day in and day out to…” he sighed. “Well if doesn’t matter anymore. I’m sure you wouldn’t care about me anyway.” He looked down, obviously trying to manipulate them. Then he smiled and made direct eye contact with David again. “But you do care for your precious Angel right?”

“Leave them be Blake, stop your short sighted tricks. It’s over.” Sweetheart said firmly grabbing their cuffs.

“Lets see if I remember your address… and if I don’t… maybe my shade will. He can clip your Angels wings”

~~~~~~~~

As the movie came up to the part (angels favorite part) where the animals find their “love” interests, Angel making plenty jokes about shifters doing the same thing, they heard a knock on the door.

It wasn’t a knock. It was banging. Loud banging.

That was when Tank got a call from David and immediately answered, already heading to stand between Angel and the door.

“Tank?” His voice called out frantically.

“Dav- what’s going on?” They asked, brows furrowing together and face scrunching up. They were preparing to shift if they needed.

“The cult they...” He took a sharp breath. “A shade, please get to somewhere safe and-“

Before he could finish Tank grabbed Angels wrist and took them down to the basement. Tank handed Angel the gun they always kept on them, in case they needed to defend themself.

“What’s going on Tank?” Angel said beginning to get scared.

“Anything comes down here you point and shoot.” They adjusted angels pose. “Just like this.”

“Tank, you’re scaring me… what’s going on?”

“A shade is here and I need to keep you safe.”

“What about you?” Angel asked hands shaking.

“I’ll hold him off until David gets here. I need you to stay here. Do not move from this spot okay?” Tank patted Angels shoulder and handed them their phone, Tanks screen lighting up with a text from Sam. “The code is 4321. Use it to call David if… just don’t move unless it’s to run away.”

With that Tank tan up the stairs, Angel could hear them locking the basement door and Tank shifting. The sound of wood splintering let them know that the front door was broken open. The large oak door seemed unbreakable to them, they could hardly believe it splintered, let alone broke at all.

They heard an ugly hissing sound, it must have been the shade. Then they could hear the sounds of fighting and growling. Angel had heard stories of shades from David. Tank really needed to be cautious… one slip up and they could-

Their thoughts were cut off by the sound of a table breaking and Tank yelping. They could hear the shifter take a large bite from the shade and another scream. Wait why did it sound like there were two shades? Angel swore only one was there a second ago.

They frantically texted Davey to let him know of what was happening.

Tank (Angel): They locked me in the basement. Tanks fighting two shades I think!! Davey please hurry!!

Davey: I’m on my way Angel hold on!

Sam: Hey Darlin how is your night going?

Darlin (Angel): Sam! A shade broke in, now there are two, Tank locked me in the basement and they are fighting them. It sounds bad.

Sam: I’m coming.

There were so many sounds happening. The sounds of Tanks phone flooding. The sound of wood splintering, glass shattering, a wolf yelping, shades screaming. It was all so overwhelming and suffocating. Luckily, the sound was getting quieter. Tank must have gone against one shade and won, but then they heard Tank yelp, a yelp similar to the one they let out when they rolled their ankle. Shit! They broke their ankle!!!

Angel tried to run up the stairs to go help but the door was locked and wouldn’t budge. The cold golden door knob now becoming their worst energy.

The sounds continued and the yelps got quieter, that was until it fell silent. Too silent.

Angel couldn’t tell how long it had been silent for. Seconds? Minutes? Hours? The silence was more deafening than anything and they now longed for the crashing and screaming and banging because that meant someone was still alive.

They sat against the door silently sobbing and curling up into a small ball. That was until the intense rush of footsteps ran into the house.

The basement door was very close to the front door. You only needed to take a left down the hallway. Footsteps, fast, and loud echoed throughout the hallway but Angel couldn’t stop themself from crying. The door suddenly flung open and Angel fell through to the floor, falling onto a familiar pair of hiking boots. It was David.

He gently picked them up and held them close to him. Cradling them and giving them soft kisses trying to comfort them. That was until Asher’s voice could be heard yelling from the kitchen.

“DAVID! DAVID HELP!” Asher sounded frantic and afraid. David stood up and ran over to Ash, fearing that his friend was being attacked. Angel followed behind David rushing through the hall.

Both of them froze upon arriving to the kitchen. There under Asher’s hand was Tank, a quickly fading Tank. Next to them, two dead shades. Their body was covered in blood and scratches and their ankle was popped out of place. Their face was becoming sickeningly pale and their lips were losing all color.

They smiled at Angle and gave them a sad nod.

“I won…” they said weakly coughing out.

“Hang on Tank! Sam is going to be here any minute! Please!” Angel said dropping to their knees at the shifters side. “You idiot! You should have run away! You shouldn’t have fought them… not for me!” They cried out loud.

“Hey…” Tank coughed. “I’d do anything to protect my Alpha.” They smiled softly.

David finally found his feet and moved to sit next to them. He tried to use his magic to heal them, he had taken a few classes after the last incident, but it didn’t work.

“Tank hold on please.” David said squeezing their hand.

“Davi…d T…Tell Sam… I love him… te…tell him he… he is the best… thing to…” their words got quieter and quieter and they began closing their eyes. David shook them, slightly slapping their cheeks.

“Hey! HEY! No no no no no You stay awake! You stay awake now!” David pleaded with Tank.

“You survived through all of this! You don’t get to die!” Angel cried out loud clutching Tanks hand.

“T…thanks for… for being… my family.” Tank smiled.

“Stop no final fair-wells! You don’t get to do that.” Angel patted their face. “You are gonna live! You and Sam are gonna get married, and I am going to force you to dress up, even though you will hate it.” They squeezed Tanks face and brought their forehead to touch Tanks cold skin. “Sam will look so dashing and smile at you like how he always does! You two will live a long happy life, and you will grow old, and be the godparent of any kid David and I adopt, if we do that.”

Tank chuckled which trailed off into a small fit of coughs. They felt so cold, so scared. They knew that it would happen sooner or later but god how they wished it wouldn’t be now. They wanted to live that life with Sam. To explore their new friendship with Angel. They wanted to be a part of the pack, to be a part of something that didn’t just involve fighting. They wanted to live.

But life was cruel. They learned that day one. They got colder and their eyes grew heavier. It was happening it was always gonna happen.

Angel remained in their spot. Their forehead pushed against Tanks.“Please! I need you to be here! You can’t die you can’t-“

“Darlin?” Sam walked in. The pit in his stomach grew and he felt physically ill. He immediately got down and tried to heal them but nothing seemed to work. They squeezed his hand and slightly shook their head.

They had talked about this, Tank wanted to live their natural life. They wanted to die when it happened. They didn’t want to be turned.

“Darin you know I gotta ask you one more time. Do you.. do you want me to.” He began to choke on his tears.

“Tank please…” Angel said sobbing out loud.

“Hey… I’m su..posed to… be th.. one cryn…” they looked back at Sam and shook their head. Denying his final offer. He solemnly nodded and lifted their head to rest on his lap. He ran his fingers through his mates hair as they drifted of to an eternal rest. “I… luv… y’all …” was the last thing they told the room before finally succumbing to their injuries.

Their lifeless body laid on the floor, in their mates arms, hands holding their Alphas and their best friends. Their family, Milo, Cristian, and Asher, stood in the corner of the room, holding one another.

This day would be one that broke Angel. They truly loved keeping company and being the friend of Tank. Watching tanks bored expressions during pack meetings always brightened their day. When they went to the first meeting without Tank… or Sam. They had to excuse themself to cry.

They moved out of the previous home they built with David and into a new one closer to the woods. They would go to sleep and still feel the cold wall of the basement, and hear the screaming and crashing and banging of their home.

They would hear tank screaming for help before dying in their hands, being suffocated by the loss. By the fact that they couldn’t do anything.

“Let’s push it up towards the back bookshelf.” William said offering them a smile. “And thank you again for helping me. I had planned to have Vincent and Sam do it, but since their already out…” he trailed off.

“No worries! I’m always available. Besides it’s a good workout.” They shrugged as they pushed the desk backwards. It now stood about five feet from the back wall. As they reached the back they gave the tall vampire a nod. He slid them over a box of framed photos.

“Could you be a dear and out these on the desk? I’m going to begin filing these papers in the drawer.” The wolf gave him a nod as they opened the box.

They began unpacking them and setting each photo the cringed at some of the ones of Alexis. They were down to the last photo in the box. The frame was facing down. They picked it up ready to place it on the large wooden desk until something popped out at them.

It was a photo of the different members of the clan and their titles were next to them. They recalled their mate telling them that he would never let them know just what his title was. He said HE would never tell them… but if they found out on their own. They looked for his face and found it, in shiny gold embroidery…

Duke Sam Collins of the Solaire Clan.

There it was, and the smile on their face couldn’t be brighter. They were so pleased with themselves and so giddy at the discovery.

“What did you find that has you so happy Dear?” William said peaking up from the drawer he was filing. “Oh a lovely photo of everyone!”

“Especially of your handsome Duke.” They smiled as they set the photo down in place.

William chuckled brightly. “I think your Sam is due home any minute.” William said checking his watch. “Since I am almost finished with this anyways, why don’t you go meet him?”

“Are you sure?” Tank asked warily. “I don’t mind helping…”

“Yes I’m sure dear, now go see your mate.” He smiled at them and waved them off.

As they exited the large office and headed out of the building they became giddy again. They already had plans of how they would welcome him home. Maybe a red carpet, a robe… a crown…. Or maybe they would try something else.

~~~~~~~~

Sam was happy to be home. It had been a long work trip and all he wanted was his Darlin. He wanted their love, hugs, kisses… all of them. He walked up the gravel path, suitcase trailing behind him. He could sense them inside and as he got to the door, it opened and he met Darlins eyes. They smiled up at him before tackling him in a tight hug.

“Hey Darlin.” He spoke, softly kissing their neck. “I missed you like hell.”

“I missed you too Sammy. Here, come inside.” They stepped to the side to let him come in. He settled in the living room popping his back and twisting around.

“Let me put my stuff away then I’ll join you on the couch.” He said reaching for his bag. Before he could grab it their hand reached the handle pulling the suitcase closer to them.

“No no my handsome Duke… allow me.” They said Bowing and heading toward the room.

Sam paused, freezing in place. That’s right, they were helping Will in the office today… He growled out and began to chase them down the hall. They let out an excited squeal.

“What did you just call me.” He said chasing them up the stairs.

“I’m sorry fair Duke!!!” They yelled out laughing.

“That’s it!” He sped up and threw them on the bed pinning their hands down.

“Oh my! That’s no way for a Duke to behave!” They feigned shock and offense. “What’s wrong Duke Sam?” They cocked their head to the side and feigned innocence.

“That knowledge is for me to know.” He kissed their neck and then whispered into it. “ And you to never learn.” He smiled into their neck. “I have been waiting all day to get home and here you are scheming against me?”

They smiled and attempted to free their hands from his grasp but he didn’t budge. They then turned their head to the side and kissed him.

“Awww it’s okay my lovely Duke.” Their eyes had a mischievous glint in them. Then he sat up, straddling their hips.