Family Vacation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Family Vacation
by jhourdhaun

Disclaimer: I do not own these beautiful people, though I wish I did. I guess I'll just have to be content just playing with them for bit.

Notes: TeyGrone is based on my wedding photographer. As I told Paige, nothing says cheese like an old Queen with a camera!

The Beginning

Warrick was dosing on the chaise by the swimming pool after Gil left. He loved how the sun kissed his skin and he could just pretend it was Gil spreading the warmth.

He was so glad that his brother had suggested this vacation. It was good to spend time with him and Frank - something that he hadn't realised he'd craved. He liked having Stevie around because the older man seemed to live for his role as big brother and Warrick needed that kind of family interaction.

Warrick wished Jack had been able to come along. It was pretty cool having a nephew and his nephew was the absolute brightest and smartest kid around... well, except for his nieces by marriage.

His thoughts were so focused on the kids, he didn't hear a sound that would have warned him that someone was creeping up behind him. The first indication he was not alone was the shadow cutting off his sunlight, a devilish laugh... and what felt like a ton of ice cold water cascading onto his sun-warmed back.

"Shite!" Warrick yelled. "What the-" the exclamation cut off as he sprang up and came face to face with his normally serious and straight-laced brother - who happened to be cracking his sides laughing. Hearing other noises, he quickly glanced over at the other side of the pool and found both Gil and Frank almost having to hold each other up as they laughed themselves silly. "Oh yeah, this is funny, huh?" His gaze returned back to Stephen. "That water was cold, Stevie."

Stephen didn't even flinch at the cursed nickname - he couldn't because he was laughing too hard. "What? You looked like you really needed some cooling down, Little Bro. It was my sworn duty as a caring older brother to oblige. Wouldn't want you to burn - Gil would never forgive me if his fun was spoiled."

"Yeah well," Warrick grumbled as Stephen tossed him a towel from a nearby chair, "just remember, we have a whole week here. You won't know when or where, but you'll see this again." He glared at his brother. "Payback may be a Bitch, but that Bitch answers to me."

Who Will Watch My Back?

Frank grinned at his reflection in the valet mirror. Stephen would be truly amazed at how much Frank had been a part of his current happy streak.

When Lisa had been offered the promotion in Europe, Stephen had drifted into a major funk that not even a call from Warrick had been able to pull him out. He felt that this would further drive a wedge between him and his son and he couldn't think past the fact that he was losing the boy.

Enter Frank. Contacting Lisa on the side, he'd met with her over the space of a few days, planting a lot of little seeds in her mind about what would be best for her and Jack. He encouraged her to take this opportunity to grow into the person that she knew she could be. He hyped her potential and what that would mean to Jack in the long run. He made her see that this was something she had to do for herself as well as her son.

Then, when he was sure she was on-board, he'd started talking about how stable he and Stephen were now - how they'd been together for almost three years and how they both felt this was forever. Frank had counted it as a feather in his cap when Lisa reached over and clasped his hand and told him how happy she was for them - how happy she was that Stephen had found what he'd lost. He then went on to explain how good it was for Stephen to have reunited with his brother and what that meant to all of them. Lisa agreed that she'd never experienced a more content Stephen - she even joked about the loss of dark clothes making her ex look less like a vampire.

That was when he used all of his military and police instincts to move in. Like a well-trained campaigner, he outlined how good it would be for both Jack and Stephen if they could be close during this time of her growth, how much safer it would be for the boy to be on his home turf, how Jack would be pampered and loved by not only an adoring father and step-father, but a fantastic set of uncles and doting "sisters." He presented a picture of Jack growing into a balanced and strong young man as Lisa also grew.

Frank presented to her a plan that involved her getting access to Jack whenever she had free time. They would keep the boy in his private school and Frank had already checked to see how they could work things out that way. Lisa had been impressed, but she'd asked for a little time to think things through. Frank had understood. His only request had been that she not tell Stephen about their conversation because he was dealing with enough stuff with the possibility of his son moving.

As they were parting ways that last day, Lisa reached up to him and kissed his cheek. "Thank you," she whispered.

"For what?"

"For loving Jack and Stephen enough to deal with me. That goes a long way in helping me make my decision."

Three days later, the phone rang and their house was suddenly filled with the most joyful yell. Frank found himself running down the stairs and straight into a crying, laughing Stephen's arms. "Lisa's taking the job, but she's leaving Jack with us. She wants to meet with our custody arbitrater to work out the details, but he's going to be with us for at least a year." Stephen kissed Frank hard. "I'm not going to lose my son."

"Of course, you're not. Lisa's a good woman - she knew how much this was tearing you up. I didn't expect anything less from her."

Within a month, they'd moved Lisa to Madrid and settled Jack into his new home. The three guys had some adjustments to make, but they had managed and Jack was thriving. When Frank's girls came and stayed, it made for interesting, yet amazing times that neither man would ever trade.

Even now, several months later, Frank couldn't stop the smile that crossed his face and it grew as warm, loving arms wrapped around him and a head propped itself on his shoulder. "You look pretty pleased with yourself. What are you thinking about?"

"Just thinking about Jack spending time with his mom. He sounded pretty psyched when we spoke to him earlier - even after you went all parental and reminded him that he needed to take notes of all of the places he was seeing for his report." He turned his head so that he could kiss Stephen's cheek. "Way to almost kill the mood, lover."

Stephen laughed - something he did a whole lot more lately. Adjusting his own head, he brought his lips to Frank's and soundly kissed the younger man. "Jack didn't mind. In fact, he was talking about what he was going to write. He told me he had it all plotted in his head. My kid's bright like that."

Pulling away from his partner, Frank walked over to one of the chairs and grabbed his dinner jacket. "Come's by it natural. Lisa's pretty smart and his dad's not too shabby most times."

"Most times?" Stephen questioned as he moved up behind his lover, smoothing down the jacket Frank had just put on.

"Well, I gotta say it wasn't too smart dumping all of that water on your brother. He does not seem like the type to just let something like that slide. Something tells me you should be watching your back."

Stephen dropped his hands to Frank's arms and spun the other man around, pulling him close. "Why? I have you for that." He resumed his earlier kissing. "I have no worries when it comes to that. You take care of me in ways I never would have imagined. You love me enough to make my world as close to perfect as you can. I trust no one more than you."

At the loving words, something in Frank exploded, bathing his insides with a warmth that he'd never known. Even throughout several years of marriage to Kim, he'd never felt this kind of devotion - this kind of appreciation. Maybe that explained why Kim was now his ex and Stephen was his now and forever. Whatever the explanation, Frank settled into the love as easily as he settled in his lover's arms. "For as long as I breathe, you'll need no other."

And They Say Girls Gossip

Dinner was very relaxed and all four men were feeling pretty mellow. Talk had turned from Jack and the girls' antics to the puppy Gil had surprised Warrick with. "She's so great and so smart. I never thought I'd like having a dog even though a part of me really wanted one, but she's trounced that."

Frank took a sip of his wine. "Good call, Gil. Bet that scored some major points."

Gil blushed, but the twinkle in his eyes danced. "I did a lot of research for a suitable dog for Rick. I really wanted one that was smart and lovable." He started to chuckle. "All of my initial research led me to a poodle, but I could not see me bringing one home to Warrick - not that I would have minded, but I've heard him use it in reference to something else and it didn't sound positive." He watched as Rick and Frank shared a smile. "Our ME knew that I was looking and he sent me too a breed page for Shetland Collies or Sheepdogs as some call them. I met with a breeder and nine weeks later, we had Rilya." Gil ducked his head a little and the blush returned. "And to answer your question, yes... major points. In fact," he paused, "I'm still redeeming them."

Warrick almost choked on his drink and glared at his partner. "Change of subject, please?"

Taking pity on his brother, Stephen took over the conversation. "So, anything new at the Crime Lab?"

Shaking his head at Gil's offer of some of his tiramisu, Warrick answered, "The biggest news is Sara and Greg are dating hot and heavy. Before we left, there was talk of them maybe moving in together."

Frank was definitely shocked, "You're kidding, right? Where'd that come from?"

"Nobody has a clue, but it's been fun to watch."

Stephen shared a look with Gil. "Bet that was a relief. No more knocking at the door."

It was Warrick who answered, though. "Yeah, but it's hard to say which one we're happier to see the back of. Both seemed attached to that door."

His brother's eyes widened. "Both?"

Having finished his dessert, Gil wiped his mouth and nodded. "Both. It was so bad that I was worried our doorknob was going to be permanently attached to certain parts of their anatomy."

"Okay, so now that we've shared our best gossip, it's your turn." Warrick swiped a biscotti from Stephen's saucer without remorse. "Has Miles wised up and scooped up Miss Eva?"

"No, but Kate made her move and scooped up Natalie."

If Rick and Gil had been drinking anything, it would have been a truly amazing spit take. Both men sat up straight and Warrick started coughing. Gil was a bit more in control. "Natalie and Kate? Talk about not seeing that one coming."

Frank was clearly enjoying himself. "It shook the team for a bit, but Nat has never looked happier and Kate only pulls out her broom on the second and last Tuesdays now."

All four men chuckled at that one and settled back to finish their talk.

It's All in the Jiggle

Stephen was impressed with the club, but still hung back from totally enjoying it. He, Frank and Gil had agreed to accompany Warrick to the upscale gay club for their last night together. The younger man had promised them that it was geared to professionals and was known in the area for it's music. Wanting to leave their vacation on a high note, the three had dressed up a little and followed their always stylish fourth.

With Warrick leading the pack, they didn't have long to wait. Considered one of the beautiful people, he was ushered in, gushed over and told that none of them had to pay cover. This made Gil attach himself to his lover in much the same way as Rick's leathers clung to his ass. Stephen was a little worried that his brother wouldn't be able to breathe, but the younger man seemed to take it all in stride.

They quickly located a table and Frank took drink orders. After he headed to the bar, the guys settled in, watching the many people on the dance floor. Warrick leaned over, questioning the other two men, "So, what do you think of the place so far? It's supposed to be one of the best gay spots in all of the Keys."

Stephen was tempted to tease his brother, but he figured the kid had done well. "Seems to be pretty good. Not sure about the whole dancing thing, though. I only trip the lights fantastic when I'm at home behind closed doors."

Grinning, Warrick shook his head. "Stick in the mud. Where's your sense of adventure? These kind of things are few and far between... you should enjoy them while you can."

"Like I said, behind closed doors."

A slow song started to play and Warrick laughed as he held out his hand to Gil. "Whatever, Bro." Stephen could see the joy on his brother's face as Gil stood and joined Rick. "Me and mine are gonna go have fun. You guys keep our seats warm."

Stephen watched as the two made their way to the dance floor and carved out a small space on it. He was amazed that Gil had so willingly ventured out there, but when he saw how close they were, he understood the older man's reasoning. Gil was cherishing every moment with Warrick - he was seizing the day and keeping his younger lover close. Definitely a wise man.

Frank returned with the drinks and took his seat beside Stephen. He leaned in close, smiling warmly at his partner. "Don't you want to be out there with them?"

"Not hardly," Stephen commented as he sniffed. "You know dancing in public is definitely not my thing. I think Warrick got all of the performance genes."

Watching their companions on the dance floor, Frank had to agree. "He definitely knows how to put on a show." His gaze drifted back to his lover's. "Speaking of putting on a show... We go home tomorrow."

"I know and?"

"And, if he's planning on doing anything, it's got to be tonight." He grinned at Stephen. "You worried?"

"Not hardly. I figure it's slipped his mind."

Frank was surprised that Stephen really believed this. "You're kidding, right? Nothing about your brother has led me to believe that revenge against you has slipped his mind. I honestly think he's luring you into a false sense of security before he strikes."

Stephen disagreed. "I don't think so."

"Okay, Stephen, but in this, I think I'm right."

"Frank's right about what?" Gil asked as he and Warrick rejoined the others.

"Oh, he was just commenting on how the fast dances can be more intimate than the slow ones. I disagreed."

Warrick seemed fascinated by the subject. "So why don't you guys go out there and see. It's a dance club - it's weird when you don't dance."

"I already told you, I..."

"Yeah, I know. You don't dance in public." Warrick glanced over at Frank. "You the same?"

Frank eyed his lover and then Gil. When neither of them made any comment, he stood and moved closer to Rick. "I'm game. Fast or slow?"

Listening as the DJ put on a dance beat, Warrick stood and nodded at the floor. "Fast it is." He led Frank to a section where they could clearly be seen by their companions at the table. Within moments, there was no doubt that the two men knew how to move. What was in question was how long Gil and Stephen could sit there just watching.

Gil was the first to speak after he took a long drink from his glass, his eyes never leaving the wonderful choreography on the dance floor. "From one in-law to another, that is beyond beautiful, right?"

For what seemed like the longest time, Stephen couldn't speak. Finally, he dragged his mind away from the gutter Frank's gyrating dark chocolate body had led him. Calling on all of his skills as a linguist and a medical professional, he answered, "Uh huh."

"So, then why are we here sitting when we could be back in our rooms discovering how to drown in all of that beauty?"

"I don't know," Stephen answered as he stood. "But being the man of science that I am, I plan on taking all of tonight to figure out the answer."

The Gay Mafia Strikes Back

"Oh darlings, this simply will not do," an effeminate voice called from the area by the window. Both Frank and Stephen sat straight up in the bed at the intrusion, Frank fumbling with the gun he kept handy. "Oh for the love of Liza, put that nasty thing away. We're all among friends."

Trying to shake off his sleepiness, Stephen raised the bedding to cover his bare chest and glared over at the man who seemed to be holding court in their room. "Who the hell are you and what are you doing in our room at o fuck thirty?"

The flamboyantly dressed man just giggled. "Oooh, bad words in the mornin'. I just love when the soldier boys talk all butch!"

Frank's mouth had dropped at his first glimpse of the other occupant in their room and he wasn't sure if he was dreaming. "Uh, do you have the right place?"

"I do believe I do." He pointed to first Stephen and then Frank. "Stevie and Frankie Connor-Powell." He gave an exaggerated shiver. "I do adore it when the gay boys hyphenate!" Standing, he bowed at the waist and returned to his full height with a flourish. "My name is TeyGrone, as in Tee and gr..."

"We get the picture," Stephen interrupted. "What we don't get is what you're doing in this room." The blond man sat up straighter when he recalled what TeyGrone had called them. "*Stevie* and *Frankie*?!" Stephen started to get out of bed when he realised two things - he didn't have on anything under the sheets and that their visitor seemed very interested in the area he was trying to conceal. Sitting back, he swiped his hand down his face. "I am so gonna kill Warrick."

"Are you talking about that absolutely scrumptious piece of Death by Chocolate?" TeyGrone commented as he eyed Frank. "Not that you're doing too bad yourself, sweetie." The man winked at the still flabbergasted Powell and then returned his attention to Stephen. "Anyway, he told me to tell you that he wanted to send you boys off with a bang..." TeyGrone paused to flutter, "so, he sent me to you. He was so sweet to let me in before he and his grey-haired Teddy Bear went off for breakfast. He told me that both of you were ex-military and that you would be up." The loud man frowned, "I suppose he was referring to a different type of 'up.'"

Frank finally found his way to the present. "So what wonderful activity did you and my brother-in-law cook up for us?"

TeyGrone stalked over to the bed and sat, forcing the guys to quickly pull their legs closer to them in protection. He snapped his fingers and struck a dramatic pose, "I am The Photographer Extraordinaire of this area and I have been paid a wonderful sum of money to take you and your honey-bunny's pictures." He cocked his eyebrow suggestively. "I'm also offering the option of with or without clothes..." He reached out and grabbed the covers, yanking them away with a huge grin. "So which one of you wants to be done first!"

"Warrick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Outside the room, the afore-mentioned Death by Chocolate was collapsed in gales of laughter as Gil lovingly looked on.

The End

 

Dr. Stephen Connor and Frank Powell

Relativity

. Meeting the Family by jhourdhaun

. Family Vacation by jhourdhaun

. Heart and Soul: What If... by jhourdhaun

. Finding Warrick by jhourdhaun

. Fixing the Mistakes by jhourdhaun

. To Hell and Back: Relativity Timeline by jhourdhaun

Out Of Sync, Prologue by jhourdhaun