Play Ball
By: Stefani
Rated: R/Slash/ AU
Disclaimer: Don't own…
Distribution: Email me…

Part One

"Hardy! Get your mitt and get out there! We don't have all God damn day!" I jumped from my little daze at looked up at my very angry coach.

"Sorry." I mumbled as I snatched up my worn in mitt I'd gotten a few years ago and pulled my Raleigh Radicals cap and 'hustled on our there' to my normal spot at first base.

"Cutting it a little late there, eh?" Shouted the second basement, John Bascot. I just smiled and threw the ball around. It was a very hot day, especially for North Carolina and playing in pants with a dark purple hat didn't help one bit… not one bit at all. My pants were already caked in dirt and it was only the second inning. I turned around and looked at the score board to see a huge as picture of our pitcher, Mike Seloover, one of the best in the country. I could care less.

I remember a time when baseball WAS fun and I did play for love of the game. Now it's all endorsements and commercials. And I, well, I was truly a radical. Purple hair and all. The MLB hated it; they nag the hell out of me to cut it, but to hell with them. I'm a pretty damn good basemen and they know it, loosing me might just cost the Radicals their spot in the playoffs- couldn't have that now could we?

"Yo Hardy!" I spun around just a ball came flying at my head. My quick reflexes stuck my mitt up as the ball came soaring into it, landing perfectly in the netting. I threw it back, giving it time to go around and such, the same old routine. I'm a pretty damn young ball player, go'n on 24 in August.

I've played ball as long as I can remember, me and my brother played in the back yard every day when we were young, he always knew I was better, he would just never admit it. But he's cool; he's practically my best friend. But when you're in a business like me, you don't get many opportunities to make friends, stick with family, if they back stab you, you know where they live.

His name's Matt, he's going on the big two- seven, shocking, I know. It seems like just yesterday he was 15 and I was 12, I guess time does fly…

The sun was really starting to get to me, and I could feel sweat trickling down my forehead under my hat. The stadium was about three fourths full- that's a pretty decent crowd for such a scorcher. I watched as the ball rolled into the dugout and quite possibly the perfect human being strolled over to second base.

Chris Irvine.

Oh doesn't that name just make your heart melt into a million pieces. Oh, did I not mention. I'm gay. Ohhh now, the MLB don't know about that do they? Hell no! I'd be fired like THAT. Besides… I could care less; Chris ain't gay, so it's not like I got a chance with him or anything. And if he was gay…

Fuck the MLB, hahah! They'd really like that one at the press conference .

"Yes, I did commit sodomy with Chris Irvine and he was one helluva good lay! Nice tight ass too! By the way, fuck the MLB." Playoffs or not I' d be outta there. But that's just all fantasies and such. Rumor was though, that a certain Tampa Devil Ray batted lefty, and I don't mean on the field. And how come Chris never got razzed about his long hair? Oh wait, it's not purple and green and he doesn't have his ears pierced…or his navel… and he's not… oh, me. That's right, it's Mr. Chris Irvine, role model for the kiddies, hunk for the ladies and a damn good second basemen for the men. And then there was Jeff Hardy…

The first pitch was thrown, strike, strike, strike, you're out, go sit down. This was the good part to a good pitcher, involved less work for the rest of us. The inning drowned on, two outs, man on second (by a double) and the count was two and two.

Crack!

"Shit." I grumbled as he bunted and I ran to cover the base. The man on third was running to third as the catcher threw it… OVER the third basemen's head and into left field. Double, one run scores. Perfect. The next hit's to me. I quickly scoop it and cover the base to prevent further runs as we jog in the dugout.

"Hardy, get out there and get on the damn base." My coach yells as I grab my helmet and bat and go to the small circle and warm up. I watch the pitcher, watching his throw as I warm up.

"Batter!" The ump yells as I go over and stare the pitcher down. He laughs as me and I hear the catcher comment on my hair, that does it. Third base coach wanted a bunt, fuck him.

Crack!

Oh, way down the fight field line, it's going, going, GONE! Homerun! I grin as I run around the bases, getting a stare form third base coach as I jog home and stomp on the plate going to the dugout.

"Hardy! What the fuck was that? When you are told to bunt, you better bunt!" I shrug him off and take my seat smiling to myself and pulling my hat down. What a bunch of idiots. I tied the game up, but oh hell no, I didn't listen to the coach, what else is new? The rest of the game was just normal, hit the ball, get on base, get him out, catch the ball... you know, the usual.

And then…

"Hey Jeff." It was Chris. Was the drool too apparent?

"Oh, hey Chris." I said as he sat down beside me.

"I just wanted to tell you that we were working on a new double play we're gonna use… I just wanted to let you in." He explained this concept to me and I thanked him as he walked away, wiggling his ass… or was that my imagination? I blinked for a moment before getting back out on the field.

*****************************

Eh, touch loss, 2-1, I didn't think it was that bad… oh and WHO scored that one run? That's what I thought, idiots. I was back in the smelly locker room as I pulled my jersey off, tossing it in my bag and throwing my dirty pants and socks in there too. I peeked around the corner making sure there was no one in the shower, or around for that matter, as I took a towel and ditched my shorts and made a beeline for the huge, cold, tiled area. I turned a silver knob as hot water spurted out. Oh God did that feel good.

Nothing like sitting and baking in ninety degrees for three hours and getting in a hot shower, huh? I let the water run through my hair when I heard footsteps, probably just someone who forgot something, I made a point to shower at the hotel or after everyone left. I got some shampoo that was sitting up on the shelf in the shower and poured some of the blue slime in my hands.

As I was lathering it in my hair, the footsteps came closer to the shower and, gulp, me. I turned my head out of curiosity to see…. Come on… guess… yep, that's right! Mr. Irvine was walking towards me with a big white towel around his slender, tan waist and his hair, that was always back in a ponytail- I'd never seen it other wise, sitting on his shoulders. Sweat dripped off of him as he turned on the water on one of the showerheads.

Don't look, Jeff… don't you do it… STOP.

Oh course my dick has more powers then my brain. I looked out of the corner of my eye as he set the towel aside. Taking a sharp breath, I turned back to the shower wall.

"Oh hey Jeff." He said smiling. I got a nice view of his ass… what a nice ass…

"Hey Chris." I said rinsing out my hair, he arched his neck and smiled.

"Helluva game eh?" He asked as he ran some shampoo in his long, gorgeous locks.

"Yea…" I said just wanting to melt into the floor, "Real heartbreaker." I soaped myself off and rinsed, it taking every ounce of strength not to stare at him.

"Hey, I was gonna go get some beers, ya wanna come?" He asked. I looked at him for a moment contemplating me drunk.

"Sorry, I'm not a big drinker." Liar! Ohhh where did that come from?

"Are ya sure? I've seen ya down some with the best of them…" I chewed at my lip adverting my eyes… I go… just a beer, no more.

"Well…maybe just one." I said. I dried myself off as he gave me directions. Great. I wrapped the towel around my waist as I started to walk out. My foot slipped on the slick tile as I slid and collapsed on the hard floor. I hard him run over, naked and all. Okay, down boy…

"I'm fine." I said scurrying up and running over to my locker. How the hell was I going to survive tonight?

***************************

Not a date… just some beer… I flew through my suitcase at the hotel looking for some clothes. Sighing, I snatched a pair of baggy black pants and a tight black shirt, for my girlish figure of course! I laughed to myself at that comment as I threw on a watch and a bracelet with some necklaces and some big 'ole combat boots. I looked in the mirror and shook my butt a little, good enough.

I shoved a wallet in my back pocket and my card key as I strolled out to my rental and followed the directions through the dark streets. He probably invited everyone on the team any ways. The bar was small and there were not too many cars… maybe I was early. I parked the car and walked up through the front doors. I expected to be bombarded by a cloud of smoke, but the air was clean. I saw Chris over at a bar with a beer. He looked at me when I walked in and waved me over.

I cautiously tip toed over sliding in-between people to sit at the stool he'd had his foot on. I sat on the hard wood and eyes him a little before ordering a beer. Maybe someone on the team put him up to this? He didn't deem the type though to toy around like that.

"So, how are ya?" He asked taking a long sip of his liquor. The bartender slid mine over as my hand stopped it and I let the cold liquid slide down my throat.

"I'm doing okay." I said taking another gulp. We talked about baseball for a while before he said how he felt like he didn't know me and I was his own teammate.

"Well, what do you want to know?" I asked about three beers later, my body slowly getting a little woozy.

"Do you have any siblings? Where'd you grow up?" I grinned.

"I got my brother, Matt, I'm sure you've seen him, tall, long dark hair. I grew up in Cameron, it's where I like, about… an hour and half from here." I said leaning back in the chair. He smiled at me forcing me to smile back. A drink later, I felt the room start to spin a little. I went to stand up and me… fell right on my ass. Maybe I shouldn't have had that last one. Now he's gonna think I'm a klutz, I fell twice today.

"Whoa there." He said putting his arm under me to help me up. He was so strong! "Come on, I think that's enough for you." We walked out and the hot air hit my skin as I went towards the car and he tugged me.

"Hey now, I ain't gonna let you drive, the MLB already has it in for you." He said as we walked to another car, must be his, "We'll get your car tomorrow before we leave for the road." He opened the door as I slunk in and put my head against the window. I had enough sense to know not to say anything when I'm drunk. He pulled out and the street lights looked way foreign to me.

"God I'm wasted." I moaned as I closed my eyes in hopes to slow the world down. He chuckled and pulled into the team hotel and pulled the key out, staying seated in the parking lot.

"Do you know what I heard about you? I heard you were a little different then the other boys." He said softly putting his hand on my leg. No, this isn't happening… he's not… no! No. It's the alcohol. Has to be…

"Really?" I squeaked. Remember it could still be a trick. His lips came near my head and I could feel their softness on the very tip of my ear.

"Yea." He said softly as he kissed the end of my ear. I stood petrified as his lips kissed my cheek softly, "Am I right?" I didn't move as I closed my eyes convincing myself this was all a dream, "I see you watching me, I watch you too." He said. I swear to God, my ass was cemented to the seat.

"Wow, Jeff Hardy at a loss for words. Good I don't need you to say many words." He said as his lips came closer to my own. Right before he made contact; I pulled my head back.

"Chris…" I warned, "I think you had too much to drink." I said warily. He looked at me and grinned, moving his hand up and down my leg.

"So have you…"

"I don't even know you that well yet." I said looking at him and moving his hand. The lustful expression on his face changed. Wasn't I just saying a few hours ago how I'd love to fuck him right there? Well… I lied. I hate first night bangs; I find them demeaning and sleazy. I'm allowed to fantasize about first night bangs, but God knows I wouldn't do it.

"What I if I could get to know you?" He hand latched mine and held it tightly. I looked up at him and smiled, this was really happening…

"I'd like that." I said reaching up and kissing his cheek before getting out. We walked in; he caught me once or twice. We stopped at my room and I opened the door and went to go in. He came in with me and I watched him. I am not one to sleep with someone I just met; you never know what they have and where they've been.

"I just wanted to assure you that this isn't some sick joke." He said lifting my sigh of relief. He kissed my cheek again before walking out and shutting the door behind him. I flung backwards on my bed watching my hair sprawl out on the sheets. I've died and gone to heaven.

Better, I'm in love. I sighed; I hadn't had a relationship in years. Thinking quickly, I called one of the few people that knew about me and punched the numbers in.

"Hey Matt? Yea, I know it's late." I said.

"What do you want Jeff? It's three in the morning, unlike you, I do real work, not play." I growled under my breath.

"Yes Matt, sitting behind a desk all day IS quite a task." I snarled, "But I didn't call to argue. The most amazing thing has happened to me!" I said falling back again with the phone attached to my ear.

"And what's that?" He asked yawning loudly.

"I'm in love!" There was a long silence.

"Who?" He asked cautiously.

"Chris, our cute second basemen." I said sighing at his name, "He has the hots for me!" I said giggling like a teenager.

"Jeff, from the viewpoint of a straight dude, the guy's not gay… I can just tell. I mean, just look at him!"

"I know… look at him." I replied dreamily, "besides, if he wasn't gay, why did he put the moves on me… he wanted to kiss me!" I said.

"Wanted? As much as you talk about him I thought you'd be down his pants by now." I chuckled.

"I have sense!" I said resenting that, "Besides, how would a STRAIGHT dude be able to tell if he's gay, a gay dude can tell another gay dude, we have radar." I said causing him to laugh.

"Yea, radar, listen Jeff, I've got to go to bed, you call me later and tell me all about it." I said goodbye and hung the phone up, falling backwards again on the comfy bed. Fuck the MLB.

I woke up in my bed; the sheets were an absolute mess. My stomach did a back flip as I bolted for the bathroom heaving up every meal I'd eaten yesterday. I flushed it and looked up at the mirror as my face. Not too bad, just a little pale… I opened my travel bag and popped two Extra-Strength Tylenol as I turned the shower on and tested the water. I stripped off the remaining clothes I had on and got in the hotel bath.

I grinned with memories of last night as I washed off. Mr. Jeffry Irvine… it had a nice ring to after all. I finished up, knowing I had to move quickly as I stepped out. I let my body air-dry as I set to work shaving my intricate beard and primping up. When I was satisfied I got dressed.

I slid a black team T-shirt on with some jeans and added some chains to spice up the outfit as I packed the rest of my things. I groaned remembering where my car was. I'd have to have Chris take me up to get it, I prayed to God he was up as I dragged my suitcase down the hall looking for someone who knew where he was.

"Seloover, have ya seen Irvine?" I asked Mike who was leaving.

"Haven't seen him, if you need him, he's in 532." He said as he walked on. I grinned as I followed the room numbers down the hall until I saw his. I brought my hand up, breathing as I knocked on it a few times. I heard footsteps come towards the door as a sleepy and hung over, Chris opened it, dressed only in a pair of very tight black shorts.

"Oh, sorry to wake you, I was just um… uh… well… I needed to get my car." He smiled and held the door open for me. I walked in and set my luggage down.

"You feel'n okay this morning?" He asked as he went in the bathroom and brushed his teeth. His hair was back in a ponytail and down his perfectly muscled back.

"I'm okay, I was a little sick this morning, but I'm better now." He grinned and combed his hair out, "Leave it down." I said smiling. He looked at me funnily as I repeated myself, "Leave it down." He grinned this time and set the rubber band that was around his wrist on the counter. Watching him groom himself was even getting me wired. I went over and sat on his bed while he continued to get ready and sighed. It all seemed like an amazing fantasy.

He came out of the bathroom and tossed his little bag with travel things in it off on the side and started to pack up, slipping some jeans and a tight black shirt on. I stared kinda dreamy eyed as he finished up and fetched his keys. He scanned the room making sure he had everything before turning back to me, sitting on the bed.

"Ready?" He asked. I nodded and picked up my bag and walked out with him close behind me. We went downstairs and turned out keys in and went to where his car was parked out front. I threw my suitcase in the back and sat up front with him, we already seemed so close for two people who were far apart less then twenty-four hours ago.

"Sleep well?" he asked as we pulled out and took the familiar route to the bar.

"Yea." I said feeling a little uncomfortable. He lightly punched my arm and chuckled.

"Loosen up, kid." He said as I smiled a little.

"Sorry, I'm just a tad tense." We pulled into the now nearly empty lot with my car sitting there all alone.

"See ya on the bus." He said grinning as I got in the rental. I sat in the car a moment smiling before pulling out and driving back to the hotel. The team bus was already out front with our large logo on the side of it and many people already getting in. There was a vast area of rental cars where people were turning their keys in. The team got our cars for us, they made everything fairly easy on our parts. They got the hotels, got our cars, gave us names of bars and restaurants and drove or flew us to our next game.

I turned my keys in and signed some papers for the lady in charge of the cars and threw my baggage onto the pile with other players things and threw my backpack around me and hopped up on the cold, air conditioned bus scanning for a seat. This was the worst part. From the way back a hand waved at me, at least I think it was me. Chris was sitting there and got up so I could sit next to the window. He really had been watching me; I always sit by the window.

"Thanks for saving me a spot." I said grinning. Some of the guys glared at him for a moment before turning back around. Chris was one of the more popular players on the team, he had a clique thing going on and by hanging with me, it was like he was putting his reputation on the line. Whoa…

"No problem." He said as I set my bag on the ground. He was watching me; I could feel his eyes scanning my body. I got out some headphones and a notepad and leaned back. We were on our way to Virginia now to play the Bedford Beasts. What a ridiculous name, who came up with this stuff any ways? I turned my headphones on and closed my eyes, hoping to catch up on some needed sleep.

"Whatcha listening to?" Chris asked breaking me from my trance.

"Just a mix CD my brother burned for me." I said grinning. I went back to closing my eyes, trying to get a little inspired to write something. Finally getting a jolt of something I started to scribble away, grinning with impression of what I was writing.

"Whatcha writing?" He asked. I kept going trying to get my last thought in as I closed it up and placed the pad back in my bag.

"Words." I replied with a smirk. The side of his lips curled as he elbowed me lightly. I grinned and leaned back. Just keep my cool and I'll be fine.

*****************************

The bus pulled over for a lunch break as we got out at some small plaza full of places to eat. Everyone piled out, us last. The mob walked towards some sit down place. I started to follow them when Chris grabbed my arm.

"Come on… I want a sub." I walked with him to the Subway and he started for the bathroom. I looked at him and he winked at me as I went in after him. There was no one in there and he had that sexy look in his eyes. He took my hands and I felt my heart melt. He was always so soft and caring.

"Can I kiss you?" He asked, "Just a little one? I've been dying to, and sitting there on that bus doesn't help a bit…" He was asking? Wow… this really wasn't like other guys. Just his attitude made me want him even more and more.

"Not if I kiss you first." I said softly leaning up. Our lips met in a soft manner and oh my GOD did he taste nice, and he was a GOOD kisser. He broke it after a second with his lips smiling widely.

"That was nice." He said squeezing my hand before releasing it, "You think… well… it's an afternoon game, maybe we can go somewhere tonight?" A date! Ahh!

"I'd like that." I added kissing his cheek again as we walked out. The line was short and we both ordered and sat down at a table.

"You don't think they'll be suspicious?" I asked after taking a bite.

"Nah… honestly, we don't see each other a whole lot off of the field… they'll never know." Secrecy… this was more then I could ever imagine. I wiped off my mouth and crumpled the wrapper, tossing it in a trashcan.

*****************************

I sat on the bench watching as Chris walked up to the plate, the gray pants accenting his ass perfectly. He moved around and with each action his muscles rippled up and down his arms and I found myself staring even more then usual. He strutted up to the plate as the pitcher stared him down. He caught the catcher's signal and threw the ball, Chris getting it in a gap in lower right field and rushing first base. He smiled at me and took a few steps off of the base as the pitcher watched him from the corner of the eye. He liked to tease pitchers like that.

The next batter went up and Chris dared off the base a little, which got him nearly out, he just barely dove under the throw. On the next pitch, he took off diving headfirst for the bag.

"Safe!" The ump yelled as the crowd booed loudly. He brushed his legs off a little as my eyes drifted to the scoreboard. Zero to zero in the seventh inning… we were running low on chances to score. Bascot nailed it to the very left field corner as Chris rounded third and came crashing into home, and the catcher. The ball flew over the catcher and Bascot came rounding to third, stopping there. Chris sat down beside me huffing and puffing.

"Nice." I said smiling as I picked up my helmet and grinned at him, grabbing my bat and getting on the on deck circle and tacking just one or two practices. The guy before me got out, still leaving a runner on third. I got the signal to go deep to let the runner in. The ball came sliding in, a bit too inside. I stepped out and fixed my black batting gloves before getting back in the box. I angled my feet just right against the home plate and took a small practice check swing before bringing my arms back for the pitch.

The ball came soaring towards me as I swung hard, not even looking at it and taking off. It landed somewhere between left and center field and I was stopped at second, I scored Bascot. The crowd's boo was louder now; they were down my two. Three pitches later, I took off to third, sliding in safely. The catcher was getting pissed off, I could tell. Fuck him. I chewed on my stale gum and followed each bead of sweat that dripped off the pitcher's forehead.

The count was 2-1 with two outs. I wanted to score so badly too. I took a very lengthy step off the bag, the pitcher growing too tired to care. I didn't care what the next pitch was, I was going. I was either getting out, or safe.

"Don't you go." I could hear the base coach warning. I took off as soon as the ball was released and as luck would have it...

The ass hit a homerun. So my, what I was hoping to be, a spectacular steal, turned out to be just an old RBI. I was going full run when I came into home too, scowling as I walked back into the dugout slumping down my Chris.

"You woulda had it." He said as I crossed my arms and tossed my helmet away. Life sucked.

**********************************

I now hated everyone who was gonna steal for the rest of the game and watched their base runners like a hawk. No body was getting past me. There was one out; they scored two, with a runner on first and second. That made it four to two. The batter cracked the ball sending it straight for Chris. He scooped it up, stomping on second and hurling the ball towards me on first for a glorious double play. We jogged in and I felt him slap my ass. The good things about sports… we can touch each other's butts and no one care.

I blushed a little and sat down smiling at him. This was gonna work after all.

*********************************

We won, five to three, a pretty good game. The team cleared out of the locker room as I went through my usual routine of showering, not expecting to see Chris again. I turned the water on as hot as I could take it and stepped under, leaning against the cold, wet tiled shower wall.

"Hey cutie." I turned my neck to see Chris stepping in, grinning. He came up to me and kissed my hand before turning on the stall beside me. Okay, correct me if I'm wrong, but does taking it slow involve showering together? I guess we'd done it before… so that was okay now… but I was practically yelling at myself to keep my senses okay.

"Where do ya wanna go tonight?" He asked as the water spayed on him I thought for a moment, not really caring as long we went together.

"I don't care… somewhere with few people." I said, I never was one for huge public scenes unless I was out clubbing or something.

"Well, maybe we can go to the movies and dinner?" He asked as I thought about it, a dark theatre, and a nice dinner… he was kinda classy after all. My old boyfriend just wanted to stay in his room and fuck. That's what turned me off to quick bangs. It made him seem like a fucking machine and that was it. I needed more then that! I need romance, I need love, I need a relationship. It just helped that Chris was a total stud.

"That sounds cool." I said after my thoughts emptied out of my head. He looked at and poked at my navel ring.

"Did that hurt?" He asked looking at it. I shrugged a little.

"Not really… I mean, it hurt for a day or so, but it's cool now." I added. He grinned and looked at his own belly button commenting that he didn't have the guts to do it. I smiled and rinsed the remainder of the shampoo out of my hair.

"You gonna pick me up?" I asked as I turned the shower off and got my towel, wrapping it around me.

"Yea round… seven? So we can beat the dinner time rush."

"Sounds great." I said softly, "See you then." I left with a bit of a teasing tone to my voice and gathered my things, throwing on some clothes and leaving.

**************************

I dumped my bag out all over the bed searching for something to wear. I found a few bottle of reddish hair dye and considered putting some in, but looking in the mirror I decided that I had some red and blonde in and it looked pretty nice even if it was fading.

"Ohhh I forgot I brought this." I squealed seeing some leather pants. I set them out, finding a black glittery thong, hey, I didn't want panty- er, boxer lines! These pants were tight, both in the slang and physical terms. I found a tight red, silk three quarter length shirt and used my black boots, besides my cleats, they were the only shoes I'd brought for the trip. I slipped a silver chain bracelet on my wrists and a leather band on the other wrist. I applied some really dark red nail polish to my fingers blowing on them until they were perfectly dried. I slipped a long cross necklace on and spent the next twenty minutes deciding what to do with my hair. Finally I pulled it back into a loose ponytail.

I got my black fire wallet and crammed it into my back pocket, it bulging a bit from the tightness of the pants. I changed my navel ring and earrings to silver loops with dark red beads so they matched and danced around the mirror a few times, making sure I looked good. I looked at the clock, six-forty. Twenty more minutes to clean up. I folded everything and put it in the suitcase, sending the baggage under a desk and cleaning up the bathroom. I stared at the clock for the next five minutes until it was 6:56.

There was a knock at the door and I did a final check before going over and pulling it open. There was Chris, a truly melt-able sight. He was wearing black pants and a short sleeved black shirt with a watch on and his hair down, for me.

"Wow." He said gawking a minute and stepping in, "You look beautiful." I smiled a looked down. His fingers held my chin up and he held my hand for a moment, like saying, 'here's for what we can't do in public.' He let go and we crept out.

"Sorry I was a little early, I didn't realize our rooms were so close." He said smiling.

"How close?" I wondered looking at him as we walked out the front.

"Next door."

************************************

We went out to eat first; it was a nice restaurant downtown. And lucky for us, no one recognized baseball players. We sat down and ordered. I got a grilled chicken breast with a garden salad, he ordered some kind of seafood thing I'd never heard of.

"So… some game?" He asked grinning, staring at me.

"Yea." I answered picking at my salad. His eyes warmly looked at me and I could lightly feel his foot under the table.

"Tell me about you." He asked, "What kind of music do you like? What are your hobbies, who are your friends?" I blushed and looked down, near tears. He cared about me as a person, I'd never been in such a nice date or anything.

"Well, I like all music, but my favorites are Pearl Jam, credit to my brother on that one, I like some loud things like Bizkit and Korn and Marilyn Manson… and if you swear to keep your mouth shut… I like a little Twain." He grinned at that, "I don't have too many hobbies… I write poetry and I race dirt bikes and motor bikes and… whatever else I can."

"You race?" He said in astonishment, "I've always wanted to, just never got the chance."

"Well, I have a track in my front yard if you'd ever like to come out and learn…" I offered. He smiled widely.

"I'd like that." He said grinning, "Keep talking."

"Well… my best friend is my brother Matt, we do everything together. He's the main friend I've got, I don't have too much free time to have many friends… but we have a small circle. Amy's his girlfriend, they work together, and we're real close. And there's some other people, Shane and Shannon, they live in our town, I see them when I can, that's about it." His lips curved as he kept eating, keeping one eye on me.

************************

"I've never heard of this." I said as we walked in the theatre, it was nearly empty.

"It's kinda old, there weren't many places to see a movie around here." He said as we sat towards the back. He slipped his arm around me immediately. The lights went out and the previews started.

"I like you." He said whispering in my ear. I turned and looked at him, holding his cheek in my hands.

"I like you, too." I said kissing him lightly. He held my hand, moving his one arm that was around me to my neck. He gently rubbed my neck as I set my head on his shoulder, his one arm retreating back around me. I reached my right arm across his chest, gripping his left shoulder and tucked my head on his chest and closed my eyes. This was some kind of amazing dream come true.

The movie went on, it was some sappy movie where the good guy dies and his wife cries and all that kinda shit. I slowly felt his one hand moving my chin up until I was looking up at him. His lips touched mine again gently massaging my own. You know how when you kiss someone you love everyone else is gone and time just flies? And you completely forget where you are and you completely indulge yourself in that person? Well, imagine looking up and there's an empty theatre.

"Wow." He whispered looking around. I grinned and got up, pulling him up too; he wrapped his hands around me one more time giving me a peck.

"Let's go." He added, keeping a hold of my hand as we walked out.

He stopped in the parking hot again, darkness covering the sky. He pulled the key out and set it on the windshield and looked at me, taking my hand again in his own. I loved it when he held my hand. His was slightly bigger then mine and they fit into each other's perfectly. And he always took his thumbs and circled my hand. The slightest touch from him sent shivers up my spine… good shivers though. Very… very good.

"I've never met anyone like you." He whispered, "I knew when I saw you that… there was something special to you Jeff Hardy." I blushed bringing my green eyes up to his own set that were lovingly glaring into me with the softest touch to them.

"I know what you mean." I said so softly, it was barely audible. He captured my lips again, sending me into a frenzy as he kissed down to my neck, giving his small, intricate pecks all over. We got out and walked into the hotel. It was late, and most of the team was already sleeping. He walked me to my room; he was such a gentlemen. And I didn't want to leave him at all.

"Bye." He said quietly, kissing my hand and walking on. I opened the door and felt like I was on fire, truly on fire. I ripped my hair out of the ponytail and stared at the ceiling, still feeling his lips on me, kissing me, caring for me… I reached my hand to my mouth and touched my lips; they were moist from him still.

I got out of my clothes and got in the bed when I saw the divider door between our rooms. I grinned a little, pondering a few things before deeming them stupid and laid in my bed. After forty minutes, I couldn't take the temptation any more. I got up, adjusting my shorts and opened my half of the door. Taking a sharp inhale, I knocked, praying it was him over there. After there was no answer I sighed and went to shut it knowing I probably disturbed someone else. But as it crept open and there was my angel, I felt everything come to place all over again.

Not even thinking, I wrapped my arms around him and held him, so afraid that I was going to loose him, that it was all a dream. He must have been in minor shock for a moment before it registered and he held me back. His hair was down and soft, a little wet, he must have taken a shower. He had on low, loose red silky shorts.

"What's wrong?" He asked softly as I felt our slick, half bare bodies holding each other.

"I was scared… I had this weird feeling that you'll be gone for some reason." I said. He led me in his room, which was a lot nicer then mine, leaving the two doors open. He had a much bigger bed and nicer things all around. He had a desk and a table, I always had one or another and he had a mini-kitchen and all.

"I'm never going to leave you." He said softly, "Do you wanna… would you like to stay here?" He asked quietly. I looked at the clock, it was late, and he must have been sleeping because his bed was messed up.

"Could I?" I asked. I sat on the bed as he went in my room, turning the lights off and sticking shoes in the doors to keep them open. He flipped off his own light and I felt the bed sink as he got in.

"This isn't too fast for you?" He asked pulling me up and under the warm, soft covers. I nodded no in the moonlight before creeping in his arms. He held me lightly with my head secured under his chin. Who knew in that all of this could happen in not even three days? I'd been trying for more then twenty-four years! I arched my neck up and kissed him lightly.

"Goodnight." I said quietly placing my head back to the crook of his neck.

"Goodnight beautiful." He replied. I looked up as his eyes slowly shut and sighed. Perfection

**********************

I lay in the empty bed, hugging the warmth of the covers and burrowing my head into the soft hotel pillows. It hadn't all been a dream, had it? Chris… and his room… I opened my eyes a little to the brightness of day and saw the fancy room. Yea, it had happened. The bathroom door opened and he walked out pulling his hair up and putting his cap on.

"I cleaned your room up a little, figured you wouldn't mind… you're uniform was sitting out, I put it on the table there with some cleats and a hat. We have practice in an hour and a half. Room service is going to deliver lunch, I still have to order." He said as I blinked. Everything was ready? No way.

"Are you kidding me?" I asked turning around to sure enough, see my uniform.

"No, the shower's ready." He said grinning and coming over, helping me up.

"Damn… I could get used to this." I said kissing his cheek and putting a wiggle to my ass as I walked into the bathroom. I got undressed and stepped in the shower, which was sure enough, perfect, and washed my hair.

I got out of the shower a little later and noticed I didn't have my clothes, boy was I a genius. I found a big fluffy white towel and wrapped it around my waist and peeked out of the door.

"Chris? Can you uh, hand me my uniform?" I asked. He got up from the bed where he had been watching TV and brought the neatly folded pile over to me. I thanked him and ducked back in, setting it all on the sink counter and pulling the long purple socks up my legs to my knees. There was a clean pair of underwear, tight black short boxers at that. I grinned as I pulled it on, followed my the gray away pants that were tighter then spandex and pulled the legs up a little showing the socks off. Stretching a little, I put the rest of my outfit on, including the hat which I pulled some of my colorful hair through the tine holes and stuck the rest through the back, putting a rubber band over it all.

My cleats were pretty clean, he must have shook them out. I yanked those on too, modeling in front of the mirror a few times before opening the door and going out to him. He grinned; he was in the identical outfit to mine.

"Nice hair." He commented. I curled my lips and sat down beside him, "Lunch is on the way, two garden salads, ranch dressing with a side of fries and two cokes, that okay?" He asked. I nodded, he knew me to well already.

"Thanks." I said looking at him, one word expressing a million thoughts. His gentle lips kissed my hand and patted it before putting it back on my leg. There was a knock at the door and he opened it just enough to slide the tray in and tip the person before bringing it over to me. It looked fabulous; I never ordered room service.

We ate on the table that was alongside the balcony with the curtains pulled allowing the bright sun to shine in. I nibbled on the greens and took a sip of the coke. After we finished, I went back to my room and got my bag with all my gear and met him again. We shared a nice sweet kiss as I rubbed my hands down his back.

"We better go." I said rubbing his cheek and going back to my room. I slid my wallet along with card key in my bag and opened my door, heading out. Some other guys were leaving too and Chris walked alongside me with some others as they talked about some bar they went to the previous night.

Outside, I sunk into the seat of my rental and pushed the key in. Hearing the engine roar to life, I started driving towards the field. As I went to change lanes, low and behold was Chris driving alongside me, grinning widely. I blushed a little and nearly rammed my car into the large truck in front of me and turned the music up, grinning back. There was about half of the team at the stadium already, sitting in the dugout. I dropped the bag into the locker room and jogged up the steps and joined them.

A few looked at me and we talked a little, Chris was on the other side chatting with the short stop as the coach pushed us all out to the field. I groaned and went out, sliding some sunglasses on over my eyes. I knew I'd get bitched at later, infield wasn't supposed to wear sunglasses but it was bright out and I'd be damned if I was gonna get smacked with the ball on account that I couldn't see it.

Head Coach Lough got on the home plate and started batting them around and we did the same old boring scoop throw ordeal, it's really dull. Someone got the ball, thew it to me, I threw it home, he did it again. Is that fun or what? After a while of doing that, we had a little batting practice and the pitchers worked a little while we got to rest in the clubhouse and get some food and water.

"How much longer until the game?" I asked Chris as we sat down on a bench. He took a sip of his bottled water.

"Forty minutes until we have to go out on the field and start warming up again. Game starts in and hour." I nodded and looked around. The lockers were in cubicle like areas and Chris and I was farthest away and completely secluded. Perfect. I leaned over and kissed him quickly on the lips. I couldn't get enough of this man- it was ridiculous. He set his water down and pulled my shirt out from where it had been tucked in. His fingers went under and found my nips as he gave them a short little tug.

I gasped a bit as he stuck his head under and kissed each one, tugging the buds with his teeth before coming back to me and kissing down my neck and on my lips. Ohhh shit. I set my head on his shoulder and sighed lightly. He grinned and held my hip for a minute before releasing me and sipping his water.

"We better get the game gear on." He said standing up and popping open his locker. Game uniform was basically the same kind of pants, just clean ones and a nicer shirt. He stripped off his top, winking at me and kicking off his cleats to slip out of the tight pants. I turned around and changed, careful not to mess my hair up. His hands were on my hips when I was done and he kissed my neck.

"Come on, I'll help you stretch." He said. Our gear was already in the dugout so I didn’t' need to grab anything. We walked up the cement steps where the people were already flickering in. We walked out to the soft green grass and I lay on my back. He leaned over and pushed my legs back, holding it for thirty seconds and releasing. Oh God, if I get a fucking hard on I'm gonna kill him.

He took my legs and spread them, counting down from thirty again before helping me up and I did the same to him. We did some sit-ups and different things before the other team came out for their time on the field. We jogged back to the dugout where some kids were leaning over the end looking down.

"Jeff! Mr. Hardy!" I looked up to see a small girl with a ball, grinning with a toothless mouth. I got up and watched Chris follow behind me and I took the ball and signed it and handed it to Chris who did the same.

"There ya go hun." I said grinning. She giggled and ran off and we sat back down.

"You're quite the positive influence." He said as I slapped his leg.

"I know I am."

****************************

It was the forth inning and we were just kicking their asses. It was six to nothing, two of the runs from me and Chris' back to back homeruns. I took a long drink of water. The sky was starting to darken quickly and I knew it would storm, I just prayed it would while I was still in the dugout. There was a distant crack of thunder and the three outs were up and we got to head out. I sighed and snagged my mitt and jogged out there. About five minutes later the rain hit and it just hit, pouring everywhere and heavily smacking me.

We finished the inning, and we were all soaked. The field was a giant lake and the field crew was trying to pull the tarp over the mess as we got into safety and ran downstairs. I shook my arm and watched water flig off at the locker while Chris came up behind me.

"Hey." He said as I wrung out my shirt and tossed it into a pile.

"Hi." I said tossing the shoes over there too.

"Some luck huh?" He asked.

"Luck? This just means that tomorrow we'll probably have a double header. And my hair is probably bleeding and I'm cold, wet and miserable." I answered. He pulled off his pants with a sideways grin.

"I meant luck as in we could get outta here early." He said. I grinned liking his thinking.

"Oh yea, THAT luck." I replied.

*******************************

We arranged to meet in my room in twenty minutes. The shower was packed so I was just going to take one at the hotel. I sped off down the road in a hurry; it took me twenty minutes just to wash my hair usually. I ran up to the room seeing the bed made with a little complimentary basket that these places like to leave on the bed. I ran in the bathroom and flipped it on, throwing my clothes everywhere and jumping in the hot shower.

I was a washing frenzy as I scrubbed my ass the most, tonight was the night, I could feel it. Three days, whatever, it seemed longer and I couldn't take it anymore. I climbed out and dried naked as I found a nice tight black thong thingy and shimmied into it. I yanked on some extra tight leather pants and a tight white V-neck shirt with a single necklace and bracelet. Just as I cleaned up around, I heard a knock on the connecting door. I opened it and he stood there with a bouquet.

My facial expression softened and I opened the door up for him as he came on and set them on the table. He took my hand, kissing each finger and then kissing my up my arm, up my neck and to my lips. The storm was still going on outside, the wind was the worst. I hoped the power didn't knock out. He kissed me down to the bed, assaulting my lips and sliding his hands back under my shirt.

"You look gorgeous." He said kissing my buds over the cloth before sucking on my neck. I moaned as he pushed me further up the bed, I shoved that stupid basket onto the floor as its contents spilled all over. He pulled my shirt over my head and licked around my chest, his hot mouth meting into my tender flesh. He moved down and tugged on my belly button ring in his teeth and kissed all the way back up to my nipples. He chewed on the end, tugging it and covering the whole area in his mouth, chewing and sucking it roughly. I groaned again and he kissed my Adam's apple that was probably throbbing and sucked on that, licking back up to my lips.

His tongue invaded my mouth, seeking out every detail, my hands reached down to his ass, also covered in tight dark leather, and pulled him upon me. He sucked on the area right below my ear, gnawing here and there and kissing at it. I arched my head further up, wrapping my legs around his hips and begging him to continue. He did for some time before going back to my chest and working away. He spread my legs, kissing my cock through the tight pants.

"Oh Jesus." I said as his teeth tugged the zipper down. A crack of lightening struck and in an instant, the power did go out, suddenly covering everything in pitch black.

"Perfect." He said unbuttoning the top one on my pants and pulling it down over my ankles and off.

"Chris?" I panted rethinking everything, events sinking in. He looked up, coming back to my face.

"Yes darl'n?" He asked softly, kissing my ear.

"We're not going all the way tonight right? Just… foolin around?" I said, memories of past events flowing through my head.

"If that's what you want." I said I did and he said okay, going back to my throbbing erection.

"Love the thong." He grinned kissing me through the material again. I was gonna pop out in a second. He rubbed my thighs, spreading my legs again, rubbing my cock now, and whispering soft words to me. He pulled that off and rubbed the top of my cock a little, playing with the small slit and poking his tongue at it. I gasped loudly as he fondled my balls and started to pump my cock slowly.

"Oh my god." I whispered as he continued the pumping. He gave my balls a few more pinches before licking the end of my cock. I came right there, getting some on his face, some on his shirt and some on me. I slapped my self mentally for not being able to hold on any longer as he wiped it off his face, licking the mess off and then cleaning me as well.

"That was extraordinary." I said as he climbed up with me, kissing me again.

"That it was." He added. We lay in the bed for a little as he spooned me up against him, "You know, if you have any worries, I have my HIV papers if you ever worry." He said, "I'm clean." I smiled; the man was even prepared. I dipped my head to his chest.

"You are a god." I said lightly. He laughed. I loved his laugh; I loved his smile… I loved him.

Part Four

We lay in the messy bed, both of us in our shorts. The power was back on finally. I reached over and leisurely kissed Chris on his swollen lips. He petted my hair and sighed.

"So… you wanna go somewhere?" He asked grinning and turning so he could rub my shoulders a little.

"Where to?" I asked pulling my hair away from my back.

"Well, I don't know about you, but activity like that gets me offal hungry. We could just head down to the restaurant, I saw one by the lobby, and get some food." My stomach growled on cue, as if agreeing with me.

"Sure." I said slowly getting up. He caught me in his huge arms and held me tightly. We finally released as I found my pants on the floor and struggled to pull them on, with a large shirt over it. He got on his clothes and I peeked out to make sure no one was coming. Once the path was secured we walked out and downstairs. There were just a few people around and we walked freely into the open restaurant. As we sat down, a waitress came over with some menus.

"Sorry, we don't have much we can make… the power went out as you know and one of our refrigerators didn't have a back-up generator. So all we can really make is sandwiches and salads." She replied apologizing a few times for the inconvenience.

"That's fine." I said, "I'll have a ham and Swiss cheese sandwich on wheat bread with brown mustard and a water." I answered grinning. She scribbled it down and Chris ordered a turkey sub as she ran off. The power flickered a few times before it seemed secure for a few minutes.

"Maybe if we're lucky they'll cancel the game tomorrow, too." He said winking.

"Don't push it." I replied. She came back with our food, and I was so hungry. I quickly ate it as he finished his off. I pulled my wallet out, insisting I pay this time. I felt a little guilty of always having him cough of his money… we made about the same, but he didn't always have to cover it. He fought me on paying for a little until he finally gave in.

"You know I would have paid." He said as we walked back upstairs.

"I know, I just feel bad." As we turned the corner, a group of players turned towards us and I quickly made my space from him. He looked at me oddly as they slapped hands, glared at me, assholes, and walked on.

"Ignore them." He whispered when they were out of view and we came to my room. I opened it and he followed me in. I wondered what we were doing in here, seeing as it was way smaller then his… but I didn't speak up. I kissed him again, the sandwich somehow increasing my libido.

"God all your energy back? He said laughing as I yanked him on the messy bed with me. He sat on the end as I crawled in is lap, laughing as I curled up like a small child, setting my head on his shoulder. He moved my butt onto his leg and fell back as I turned with his plummeting body, laying horizontally on him.

"What are you thinking my 'lil sneaky conniver?" He asked with a curve to his lips.

"Conniver?" I said acting hurt as I pressed our cocks together, both of them slowly jumping to attention.

"Now you've gone and done it." He replied catching my lips and digging his hands through my soft locks and pulling me close. I giggled, loving the feeling of him. He made me feel so much brighter, so much happier, so much… just better. It was like… Chicken Soup for the Soul. He kissed my neck; I loved the feel of his lips. They were soft and made me tingle. They fit perfectly with mine. They would display any emotion, just like him, they were perfect.

He rubbed my back scooting up on the bed and pulling me with him. I fit perfectly against him, setting my head on his chest so I could hear the slow beating of his heart, feel the warmth of his soul…

He rolled me off of his stomach; my bony arms were probably prying into his rib cage. I feel perfectly beside him. I reached my hand and ran it up and down his neck before pushing my lips to it and taking the skin in my teeth. I chewed and sucked at the chin as he groaned and I gave the procedure to the other side as well. I laid back beside him, wiping the little bits of saliva away.

"I love you." He said softly, catching my lips him his briefly.

"I love you, too." I said feeling my heart melt into a million ways. I sighed feeling like I was falling into oblivion.

*********************

"Hardy? Ya in there?" There was a loud pounding on my door that shook me up. It was a player.

"Chris, get in there." I hissed pushing him out the door and pulling my shoe, closing our rooms up. I quickly checked the mirror, fixing my hair up, cursing to myself at the black and blue that was forming on my neck. I fluffed my hair around it and slowly opened the door a crack. There was Steve Galsh, our left fielder.

"Yes?" I answered softly.

"Can I come in?" He asked through the tiny hole. Oh god…

"No." I said quickly, "it's a uh… um… mess in here." I mumbled quickly.

"Oh I see, you got a chick." He whispered apologizing and backing off. I shut the door, letting a long sigh of relief. I ran back to the mirror pulling my hair back as I saw the distinct two large black and blue marks on my neck from our previous session.

"Fuck!" I yelled loudly slamming my fist on the table as red and blue bite marks started to trickle around my chest. I ran over and pulled my door open, Chris looking at himself in the mirror, the familiar marks on him.

"Where in deep shit." He said worriedly. He was always so calm and cool and now, we were fucked. "What do we do?" He said holding my shoulders. I pulled my hair and exposed my own, as he cursed louder. He grabbed his hair in two large handfuls and bunched it, for a moment I feared the fuck would snap and rip it out.

"Just… calm down… I mean…"

"WE HAVE A TELEVISED GAME TOMORROW." He said as I gnawed at my lip.

"Um… we gotta go to the drugstore." I said quickly as he gave me a look.

"I don't think so, we can't think of that now when we have bigger things to worry about and besi-"

"Not that!" I said puckering my lips distastefully; I'm not THAT horny, "For cover-up. A whole lot should cover it up…" I said

"Will it work?" He asked

"Sure, get dressed." I said as I ran back over and got some clothes, along with a baseball cap and a hoodie sweater to cover my neck. He was in a turtleneck with some slacks, his hair also bunched in a cap with sunglasses on as we rolled.

**********************

Thank God for Wal-Mart, open twenty four house a day. We ran into the store about two in the morning. You wouldn't believe how few people are at Wal-Mart at two in the morning. After searching for what seemed like ever, we found a huge area with make-up.

"Um… Liquid, powder, liquid powder or this stuff in a thing that looks like lipstick?" Chris said glaring at the vast area of flesh colored compacts.

"Um…let's go with… a liquid and liquid cover-up." I said snatching two in "nude."

"You've done this before?" He said grinning as my cheeks reddened. I helped him find a shade that matched and got it as we checked out. The lady was giving us some funky ass looks as she rang it up. But it wasn't like I'd ever see her again.

"So… this just proves our gay-ness huh? Buying makeup." I said laughing on the way back. Chris wasn't laughing though, I could see worry all over his face. I reached over to kiss him, you know, try and reassure him, he pulled back.

"Not now Jeff… I'm just worried… no one can ever find out about me." He said. I went to hold his hand; it was throbbing and twitching.

"Don't worry." I said as a tear dripped from under his sunglasses. We reached the hotel and I pulled his glasses off, wiping the tears.

"I'm scared." He whispered. I let my hand caress his cheek slowly, not knowing what quite to say.

"Don't worry, it'll heal, no one will know. I promise." I said pulling his glasses over him again as we walked through the rain and inside the building. We went in separate doors, even though no one was around. And to think he'd been the wild one before. I took off my jacket and hat; the sunglasses were on the floor somewhere. I went to walk to his room, the door was shut. I shook the fearing, regretful tears as I knocked lightly, soon after him coming to the door.

"Jeff…" He started.

"Don't you Jeff me." I said pushing him in his room, "You are not gonna bail on me… NO." I said holding his shoulders and sitting him on the bed, "I love you, you love me, we were meant to be." I said, "It was more then fate." I held him; not knowing what to say- it was just a small bruise after all. Mine had bite marks and all in it. I kissed a tear and I saw a small grin in the corner of his mouth.

"We're almost through the season, and we won't go far in the playoffs… so chill. I help you with your makeup." I promised as he smiled a little.

"Thanks… I'm quite low on self esteem sometimes." He added. I kissed him briefly.

"Come on, it's late, let's get some shut eye." I suggested. I ran my fingers over his blemishes. We undressed and huddle in his bed, he wrapped his arms around me and I nestled my head safely against his body, his heat warming my body and my heart.

**************************

"Hold still." I said while I scooped up a good amount of the liquid powder goop. Chris was siting on his bed with his baseball pants and shoes on, his shirt sitting aside. I caked the junk on and smoothed it out, the spots slowly clearing. I smoothed it around and did the other side, leaning back to admire my handiwork.

"You're gonna wear your hair down right?" I said in a commanding tone. He nodded his head and yanked the jersey on over his spotted chest. I had done my own neck after I showered and braided my hair into two pigtails to try and subside the mess. He buttoned the shirt up as I reached over and helped a little, kissing him, knowing that if this blew up in our faces, I got as much in as I could. We went our separate ways again, I gathered my equipment from the room and met him in the hallway, like that whole thing was coincidental.

Thank God it wasn't too hot at the game; I was worried the make up would come off if I sweated too much. We pulled off another perfect double play, I was three for four for the night and Chris was an outstanding five or five, two singles, two doubles and in-park homerun. And he was just oh so graceful.

Watching him run the bases got my heart going, his speed and agility, concentration… beautiful.

"Hey slugger." I said as he sat down beside me. He grinned and tossed his batting helmet and batting gloves aside, yanking his cap back on. I did a quick scan of his neck, it was holding well enough.

"Only three more games until play offs." He said taking a drink of water from the cup beside him.

"I know… the season just… flew by this year." I said knowing that I found rather slow and agonizing.

"Bull shit." He said laughing, knowing what I was thinking. I smirked a little as we ran out on the field. We went out together, and separated, me going to my far away spot at first, gazing at him from across the field. A ball was tossed to me and I started throwing it around, keeping my eyes on Chris and surprised as hell that I didn't whack someone upside the head.

We had a little huddle in the middle of the seventh with the pitcher, Chris beside me. There were two outs and the possible tying run on first, he was also the leading in the national league in steals. This one was gonna be tricky to get.

"What about we try to get a ball so it's kinda far off and he steps off more then he should and we nail him in the first pitch." Our catcher suggested. We nodded, agreeing to whatever. It didn't matter. As we went to broke, Chris slapped me on the ass, smirking. I looked at him, my eyes bugged out a little while I went to first. I glared at him from my far away lone spot as he grinned. I smiled to myself.

We got the guy out, won the game by a run; it was just another day in the major leagues.

But what worried me was when I went down to the clubhouse. Chris beat me to it and I went down and heard him talking to some of the guys. I was in the next set of cubicles, a little curious to what he was saying.

"What's up with you and Hardy?" Tom Davis, left field, asked.

"What? We're just friends. He's a lot nicer then you guys gave him credit for." I grinned. I loved him so much. What a bunch of pricks.

"Yea but… he's… Hardy! I mean, he's weird." I resent that; I may be a little odd… I heard him tell them to scatter off as I came around to our small area. He grinned at me and took his shirt off. We had decided that obviously we had to shower at the hotel again. He quickly slid a new shirt over. I did the same, putting my sweaty cap in the bag.

"Um… how about we go to this club with the guys tonight," Chris said, "They invited you too… it'll be fun." I gave him a look, he knows I hate them.

"Chris…" I started while we changed, but he cut me off.

"Jeff, these are my friends, I know you guys don't like each other, but try? For me?" Now what kind of screwed up person could say no to those eyes? I melted like a Popsicle on a hot summer day.

"I guess…"

"Great! We'll leave at seven." He gave me a quick kiss and snatched his bags, trying to beat the media out. If we weren't gone in 20 minutes after the game they released the reporters, that's just sheer horror. I tried to take Chris' method of escape, but was cut off by some of the pitchers.

"Hey Hardy, ya coming tonight?" John asked.

"Yea." I said swinging my duffel over my shoulder. They looked at each other and grinned.

"Good… see ya there Hardy." I glanced at them before walking away. After all, I do always over-react… I'm sure it's nothing. Nothing at all.

I couldn't have been more wrong.

Part Five

The cover up covered my wash cloth as I scrubbed it off and washed my hair. The hot water felt so good against my body, I contemplated staying in for longer, but I knew I had to meet Chris. Chris… oh doesn't that name just make you smile? Well, it makes me smile, and get all tingly, and send electricity up my spine…

Well any ways, I got out of the heat, against my better choice and dried off. I examined myself in the foggy bathroom mirror, the blemishes were lighter, but still very bold and dark compared to my flesh. I flung my hair over and walked out into the room, nude, and drying my hair on the thin, small hotel towel. I ferociously scrubbed at my multi-colored locks when I felt a presence in the room.

"You know, you should keep doors shut when you're naked, never know who's gonna walk in." Chris said. I looked up and flung my hair, water spraying the carpeting behind me. My eyes trailed Chris' divine, hard body. He was wearing a pair of jeans that fit him in all the right ways. His chest was hidden by a dark green sweater, his hair loosely pinned back. His sweater wasn't a turtleneck, but it rode very high on his neck, covering most of his wound.

"Yea, wouldn't want just anyone to come in on me would I?" I asked with a sly grin as I found a pair of dark pants with a baggy shirt, I didn't really care what I looked like tonight. My head was pounding, even after three extra strength Tylenol. I sat on the bed as Chris got me a pair of boots and I slid them on. I combed my hair and braided it. He watched as I covered my neck pretty well.

His gentle lips touched mine briefly; he pulled back with a wide smile on his face. I put my arms around his waist, setting my head on his chest and rocking us gently. His arms slowly snaked around me and we swayed slowly to non-audible music.

"You know we gotta leave soon." He whispered in my ear. I nodded and snuggled closer, clinging to his comforting, loving body heat. He slowly pushed me away, kissed me on the cheek and squeezed my hand, signifying it was time to go. He went back in his room and I stuffed my wallet in my pocket as I went out the door, shutting it tightly behind me and I started down the hallway. Soon after he was coming after me, like it was coincidental.

"Hey." He whispered, "Wanna drive together?" I grinned and nodded; my finger pushed the button for the elevator. The door slid open to the empty carrier as we stepped inside. I quickly pushed the door shut button and the lobby one. I didn't want anyone else in here for a moment. His arm came around me and we leaned against the metal bad while he traveled down the shaft.

It came to a stop and the door slid open and we walked out. There were a few guys in the lobby lounging around that looked up when we walked through. I forced a smile, and expected a few sneers, but on the contrary.

"Hey Jeff." Tom said with a grin and a wave. This was weird… not just the smile and wave, but they never EVER called me Jeff.

"Hey." I answered grinning more.

"We all ready to go?" Michael asked as everyone nodded. He gave directions and we exited. I walked with Chris towards his car when Tom yelled.

"Hey Jeff, wanna ride with me?" He yelled from next to Chris' rental. I looked in desperation at my lover who stared at me, a little worried.

"Nah I got it." Chris answered as he unlocked the car.

"Well, we don't all need a car, how about I ride with you?" He said coming over not even giving us a chance to answer. I got in the front and Tom climbed in the back. I pulled my seatbelt over, suddenly feeling pressure.

"So how have y'all been?" He asked making conversation, as we talked for a little. It was all very awkward. Chris followed someone else in front of us as we pulled into a parking lot. I looked up at the brick building and groaned to myself.

In huge fluorescent lighting and signs, the words "Exotic dancers" "Strippers" and "Hot Babes and Beer" ran all over. This was just fucking great. The engine turned off and a bunch of the guys got out of their cars.

"Yea some nice nude babes." They said slapping hands and such. I looked at Chris who was chewing at his lip. We followed them in, me a little slower then the rest.

"I didn't know." Chris whispered in my ear. Of course, there was a runway like stage with dancers on it and they pushed their way to the front and pulled some seats up.

" Here Jeff." Someone yelled showing two seats in front row center. Great. I sat on the hard chair with Chris easing in beside me, the music pumping with a loud base. I ordered a beer, what I was sure would be the first of many after tonight. After what seemed like minutes, but my watch signified hours, I felt myself being pushed forward, someone taking my beer. A girl in nothing but the tiniest thong even I had ever seen, and I've seen plenty, and a wee little top yanked me up against my will.

The guys were cheering of course as she rubbed up against me. I smiled and tried to get into it, she had long blonde hair, Chris had long blonde hair. She reached around and grabbed my ass, taking two huge handfuls as I gasped.

"You like that stud?" She asked in a soft voice. Trying to think what to do, I found a crumpled dollar bill in my pocket and put it in her underwear, she swung her hips at me.

"You getting excited?" She asked as she rubbed her crotch to mine. I wasn't. She tried harder, getting frustrated, "Jesus, you'd think you were gay." She said with a smirk as my eyes bugged out. But with a quick push, and she saw she wasn't getting anywhere, I was back in my seat, several guys patting me as she got a new goer. Chris was laughing beside me as I hit his leg.

After a little while, Chris and me moved to a bar that was way back in the large smoky room. I could feel my head whirl a little bit from all the drinks I'd had and I decided I should start cutting it down, at this rate I was going to be in no condition to play baseball tomorrow. There was barely anyone back by us, everyone was huddled around the front cheering.

I set my head on the bar, coughing a little from the smoke that had invaded my lungs. I closed my eyes to try and calm myself down and held my headache. Chris's hair was falling down in his face, he'd been pushed on stage himself, trying to play along with the act.

"Feel'n alright?" He asked patting my back. I groaned and lifted my head feeling the room spin a little while I leaned it on my arm that I had propped up on the counter.

"It won't be too much longer." He assured me softly. I blinked trying to focus on his face, but I was still seeing threes. I felt a new hand on my back and saw that mysterious Tom as he sat down on the stool next to me.

"Do'n okay?" He asked as I swayed my hand. He grinned and rubbed my hair. Chris excused himself to go the bathroom while Tom put another drink under my nose. I said no lightly, pushing it away. But then I felt him looking at me, my neck more closely. He tried to pull my braid away as I slapped his hand away.

"What's that? These hookers getting fresh on ya?" he said. I shifted uncomfortable saying I had to go to the bathroom as well. But as I got up, Tom held me down, and I looked at him with a worried face.

"No you don't." He said softly. I attempted to swallow the large lump that was in my throat.

"Y- yes I do." I said, his hand still held my shoulder down.

"We're on to you Jeff… you better watch yourself." He slowly got up and walked off to the other guys as I made a beeline for the bathroom, slamming dead into Chris who was on his way out, tears stinging my face.

"How?" I asked wrapping my arms around his waist, praying there was no one in the dirty lavatory.

"Baby, what's wrong?" He asked gently.

"They know… I don't know how… but they do." I said as a small gasp escaped his mouth.

"Ab… about us?" He stammered.

"I don't know… they know me at least. Oh my god how could this happen?" I cried with my head on his shoulder. He started shaking, I was already trembling.

"Maybe… maybe they don't, you're just paranoid." He said while trying to start back out there, "But if we stay in here they'll get suspicious." I sniffled my nose and wiped at my eyes before following him out. Someone stood up and called Chris over, I reluctantly followed him.

We sat down, back to our seats, back to that Tom who was freaking me out beyond belief my now. I pushed my chair a little closer to Chris while Tom was surveying my neck again. I looked at Chris, begging for help.

"Hey guys, lookee here. Jeffy got a bit of action last night." Tom said, drawing the lot of them over, all examining my bruise that not only had Tom exposed, but the cover up must have worn off at some point in time.

"A wild one?" someone asked chuckling.

"Ohh… but wait a sec…" Tom said, with a sly grin, "Chris here's gotten one two, were you guys sharing or what?" He chuckled nervously as Tom continued the pressure; "It's almost like you banged each other." He said, they all started laughing wildly as Chris and I hesitantly laughed along before all of them stopped dead and stared at us. I bit my lip as Tom turned to us.

"Chris, we expected more from you, man. I mean, Jeffy here… he's just a fag, but you, you were our friend." Tom added, he was obviously the mastermind.

"I… I don't know what you mean?" Chris said as the person on the side of him wiped away the little make up that was left. I closed my eyes, just wanting to disappear.

"Oh you don't hmm? Well, when you two were vocally displaying your queer pleasure you should pipe down, yelling "Oh god Chris" is USUALLY a give away. You two disgrace me." And with that he spit in my face, I didn't even make the move to wipe it away. I just stood up, tears calibrating my eye lids and walked off, I could hear Chris behind me and when we were out of the building I sunk down to my knees, stinking drops dripping my face as I wiped the nasty spit away.

He came behind me and put his arm around me, holding me in the moonlight.

"I'm so sorry." He whispered.

"We're ruined." I whispered, "My short career is over." I added.

"Come on." Chris said, I was too drunk and upset to argue. We got in his car and he reached over and held me, I put my head on his shoulder.

"I knew this was going to happen…" He said holding me tighter. I knew it too, I just wanted to make believe we were safe… together… happy. He slowly let me go, he pressed his lisp to mine before his shaky hands found the keys and he started the engine. The streets were blurs, the dead silence in the car was painful, and the recent past was living death.

The ride seemed like hours, I knew it had only been minutes. The parking lot had the missing cars from our teammates with the hotel windows lit up all around. Chris got all of his things out of the car, putting them in a bag, I had nothing in my own rental.

"Pack your bags." He said as we walked up the stairs, "We're leaving." I nodded; knowing that they always tell you running away doesn't solve your problems, well, that's bullshit. My room was a mess, I just started to pack everything in site in my giant suitcase and duffel, as fast as I possibly could. I had no thoughts, and I was still beyond wasted, everything spinning. Finally I thought I had everything and Chris came in, changed, and with his two bags.

"Give me your rental and room keys." He said sternly. I did, and he kissed my cheek, "We're gonna be okay." He promised. I looked at my room one more the time. The maids had made the bed earlier and it looked fairly neat. We walked out quickly, everyone still at the stripper bar laughing at our expense. We rushed down the hotel hallway, the carpeting and paintings blurring together, we had to beat the jerks out of here.

He stopped at the front desk out of breath and panting, setting the suitcases down and reaching in his pocket for the keys. The receptionist watched him as he yanked them out and set them on the counter.

"We're checking out, we're with the baseball team. Those are out rentals, when you see a coach, give them to hi, he'll take care of them. And please say that we left." He added and took the bags before she had a chance to argue. Outside, I saw a taxi approaching and he waved his arms, it gladly stopping. Chris quickly shoved it all in the trunk, obviously in a huge hurry.

"Airport." He said quickly, using the blanket of darkness to hold my hand without fear of being caught. We sped off in the car, in the city night. He squeezed my hand lovingly while I attempted to make my heart slow down. The seat was hard and uncomfortable. We finally arrived at the airport; he gave the cabbie about ten dollars too much, not caring.

The trunk was popped and he snatched all of the bags until I snatched out duffels from him and we walked inside, the cold air hitting me sharply. We went through the building in a rush, I had no clue where we were going, I didn't ask, I just followed him.

"When is your next flight to Canada?"

Chapter Six

"Canada?" I whispered as he held the tickets and we walked towards the gate in the stuffy airport.

"That's where my house is in the off-season. We'll be safe to hide out for a little while." He added. Our flight arrived in an hour, enough time before they tried to look for us, and I was sure that something would happen. Until then I just wanted in Chris's arms. We had a flight to Winnipeg, he claimed his home was in a small suburb near by.

His strong arm snaked around me, pulling me close. I set my head on his shoulder, trying my hardest not to cry.

"We'll be okay." He promised as he kissed my forehead. A few people turned towards us, a young man around my age smiled and winked, but there were no rude comments or sneers. I sighed, glad that at least I could show affection here. I closed my eyes and tried to sleep. But of course I couldn't. I felt so lost right now… I was going to a strange place away from my family and friends… but I was going with Chris.

"You still have your passport right?" He asked. MLB made us carry them all the time for when we went to Canada to play.

"Yea." I said my voice coming out much more choked up then I thought it was. His hand held my chin, pulling me into a soft kiss. My eyes caught the young man's again- he wasn't too much younger then myself. I smiled at him and he got up and sat beside me.

"Hi… I'm Shannon." He said extending a hand. I shook it. He grinned again when he looked at us.

"I'm Chris, this is my… this is my boyfriend Jeff." Chris said, that was the first time he'd actually called me his boyfriend.

"You're such a cute couple." Shannon whispered smiling. Chris thanked him while I still held Chris tightly.

"Are you going to Winnipeg, too?" I asked softly. He shook his head no and I was a little disappointed, he seemed offal nice.

"I'm on the flight at Gate one-oh-five." He said, we were at one-oh-six, "I'm just flying to Raleigh." My ears perked up and I sat up a little when he said that.

"Really? That's where I live… or… near by." I added, "What are you going there for?"

"I live there, too." He said. We talked for a long time, until they made the last boarding call. We exchanged numbers as I waved by, taking Chris's hand and following him to the plane.

Our seats weren't very good at all; we were lucky to get a flight tonight though, so I was counting my blessings. I was at the window, but I set my head against his shoulder. Chris held my hand again in his larger one after we'd taken off. The flight was long and boring, there really isn't much to say. He told me a little about his house, either one of us focussing or even mentioning the past or future.

Him, here, now. That's all I cared about. That's all I needed. That's all I wanted.

We arrived in the airport some time later, it was early morning and I'd slept a little on the plane, I assume he did as well after me. We got off the plane like zombies, getting our bags and such. I went to ask him about calling a cabbie, but instead he picked up the pay phone and dialed some numbers.

"Hey man, hey, I'm here… yes Winnipeg, where do you think? Are you guys still crashing at my place? Good, listen, I'll tell you more later, just come pick me up, okay? Thanks, I'll wait out front." He hung the phone up, smiling at me. He got his bags again and I followed him, expecting us to go to the front.

"It may be around an hour. How about we get some food?" He suggested. We dropped off our bags again at some place where they could keep them and found our way to a cafeteria like place. I just got some hot chocolate and a bowl of coup; Chris, as usual, got some salad and a coffee. I may have eaten food, how ever the way my stomach and nerves were right now, I knew I couldn't keep it down.

"Chris… what are we going to do?" I asked with my shaky hands while I sipped at my drink, nearly spilling it all from my horrible trembling. He reached across as I put the chocolate down and put his hand on mine.

"I don't know, but we'll be safe. I promise." Promise… Suddenly, I felt my stomach churn from the previous nights activities as I spotted a bathroom nearby and ran over to it, throwing the wooden door open and relieving my stomach. A minute later, I felt his hand on my beck, gently rubbing it until he bent down a little, keeping his circular motions running smoothly. I got some toilet paper and wiped my chin, flushed the foul stuff. I turned to him, embarrassed. He held me for a minute before I pulled back and washed my hands. We walked back out and I threw the small remains of my so called breakfast out. I found a clock, it was five in the morning.

"Come on, we can sit out there until he comes." Chris said. He took my hand as we retrieved out baggage and pushed through the people that were here until we hit the cool morning air. There was a bench out front that I sat on, him beside me. He pulled me close as I set my head on him again and closed my eyes.

"Get some sleep." He said kissing my forehead. As much as I wish I could have stayed up with him, I just had no energy at all.

***************************

I stirred awake slowly to him gently whispering in my ear that the ride was there. I crawled out of his arm and retrieved the bags. A silver two door pulled up and honked. I looked in the window with my sleepy eyes to the driver. He had long blonde hair and soft eyes. He grinned looking at Chris who opened the door and I stepped in the back. The man's eyes looked at me, confused, as Chris climbed in beside me, after he had shoved the bags in the trunk.

"Adam, this is Jeff." He said as I shook the stranger's hand. He looked at Chris and smiled before pulling out, turning the radio on. I reached and took Chris's arm, pulling around me for my body to capture its warmth again and nestled my head on his shoulder.

"Well Chris, I thought you'd be gone until October again." Adam said over the radio, Chris's hand that was swung over me started to rub my arm.

"So did I… it's a long story." Chris said softly.

"Well," Adam replied, "It's a long drive." He pulled out onto the highway as Chris began his story.

First he spoke up me in the most flattering ways, my cheeks burning red, and about our playing. And then he took the time to explain the incident. Adam listened carefully, gasping and sighing in all of the appropriate places, nodding and such. Chris kissed my forehead while the ride went on.

We drove through the streets, some time later pulling to a house, which was average, yet big. There were two other cars in the driveway and several plants all around.

"Jay's still sleeping." Adam said, turning off the engine. We got out and I looked at the large house. I got my own bags, this all seeming so unreal to me. Inside, it was very nice. Everything looked so grand, so fancy, yet so simple. He had a living room with an entertainment system and another nice sitting room with gorgeous sofas and chairs and paintings on the wall.

The kitchen was all in beige and dark green with oak everything… it looked so quaint and happy. Chris gave me a tour while Adam went back upstairs. The downstairs had a dining room, asides from the kitchen and living and sitting room. There was a laundry room and an office. Upstairs, it was a gorgeous staircase. It was the kind that went up halfway and then there was a small platform like, and it made a sharp turn and went up again. It was right in front of the front door and was wooden as well.

There was a large glass chandelier above us that led upstairs, where there were five bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and another office. We started on one end where I peeked in the room to see Adam crawling into the bed with a smaller blonde, wrapping his arms around him and falling asleep. The room was very light colors, whites and pinks. The sun shone in front the very large window and sunroof.

The other guest bedrooms… not much to say, they were rooms. But Chris's room seemed so perfect. All the furniture was okay, of course. The bed was a large king size pillar bed with dark green and white pillows and blankets. He informed me that those were obviously his favorite colors. He had a few awards on his walls, all baseball. He looked at them sadly before turning back to me.

"Your home is lovely." I said, watching him set the bags down he had carried up and throw all of his dirty clothes into two baskets- one with the dirty baseball uniform, and the other with clothes. He urged me to do the same, which I did.

"Um… I'll have those washed later, for now, you can wear some of my clothes? They may be a little big…" I quickly told him that was fine as he found a pair of baggy pants for me, very thin material and very comfortable. I put them on, putting my pants and shirt in the pile with dirty clothes as well.

He held me, and walked me over to the bed telling me I should rest. I said I could be fine, but he said I looked dreadfully tired, as was he. He pulled the covers to the bed back, and set me in it before getting in beside me. The covers where cool and felt like heaven against my skin. The pillows were extra soft. Above us was another sunroof, allowing me to look at the blue morning sky. The blinds on the window aside us was closed, but it looked like another huge window, arcing at the top. He caught me staring at it.

"It has a window seat too, I love to sit at it and stare outside some days." He said, my eyes zooming in and indeed seeing the area that stuck out. I leaned on my side, staring into his eyes and wiping a strand of hair away.

"We're gonna be okay? I mean, we're not gonna get in trouble?" I asked. He chuckled.

"I think eventually we may… but now, all I want to be is with you… and I needed away from the homophobic pricks, we deserve better." He answered emitting a yawn. I dozed off beside him some time later.

I woke much later that day, to an empty bed. The covers were pulled over me and the large window had been opened. I sat up after blinking the darkness away, looking around again. I looked at a digital alarm clock that was on a dresser across the room that flashed midnight. Sighing, I got up, angry that the clock didn't work. I stretched my legs before walking down the stairs sleepily. I heard sounds from the kitchen and walked in, Adam cooking on the stove, Jay sipping coffee and the other man I assumed to be Jay sitting at the table.

"Hey." Chris said, pulling out a chair. I took it, sitting down, "Sleep well?" He asked. I nodded.

"I'm Jay." The other man said reassuring me thought. I smiled and shook his hand.

"Jeff." I answered as Jay stuck some coffee under my nose; he was a caffeine addict. I shrugged it away. They went back to finishing their statement before turning to me.

"What time is it?" I asked with a yawn.

"Eleven." Adam answered putting some eggs on the plate in front of Jay, "Want some? You might wanna eat something, Chris said you were a little sick earlier." I nodded as they put a small amount on my plate. Adam sat in front of his own as the room was silenced by the sounds of people eating.

"You're from North Carolina?" Jay asked as I nodded.

"Born and raised."

"And you are…"

"Twenty three." I answered. I probably should tell Chris my birthday was next week sometime.

After dinner I followed him into the sitting room. He sat on the couch beside a phone, looking at it. He patted the couch for me to sit beside him and I did. I suddenly felt very strange and uncomfortable in his home.

"They'll call soon." He said as my body landed on the soft cushioning. By "they" of course he meant the managers, or the league. Sure enough…

Ring!

He looked at me and smiled, letting it ring once, twice, thrice, four times, as the answering machine beside it picked up.

"Hello, we're not home, please leave a message. Beep" Chris's voice spoke.

"Irvine! Where the hell are you and Hardy? I have called everyone and NO ONE knows where you are, I swear to God if you are there you had better pick up that damn phone! I don't know what went on last night but you two are under a contract! Pick up the damn phone Irvine, you are facing some serious problems if you don't… We have a game in TWO hours, what am I supposed to do with my starting first basemen and my second basemen! Play-offs may mean nothing to you but to me they are the world, pick up the- beeeeep."

He looked at me and smiled, pulling his arm around me. I didn't know how to react, I kissed his cheek.

"I need to call my brother." I said looking at him. He picked up the phone, handing it to me. My shaky hands punched in the numbers as the phone started to ring again. What one earth would I tell him.

"For the last time, I DON'T KNOW WHERE HE IS." Matt said loud and angrily.

"Matt, it's me." I said right before he hung up. There was a silence and for a moment I feared he'd hung up after all.

"What the fuck is going on? They have been hounding me for hours." Matt said calmly, but I could tell he was at his wit end. Before I could even answer, I felt hot tears falling, Chris shushing me and trying to wipe them away.

"Jeff… what's wrong?" Matt said more concerned now.

"Everything." I sobbed, tasting bitter tears on my lips.

"Where are you?" He asked calmly.

"Canada." I answered. There was an even longer silence before the question I knew was coming came.

"Why are you in Canada?" He asked, we both new.

"I'm with Chris." I answered, "We had to come… Matt… the team found out and they were so mean and they spit at me and called me names… set me up… we fled." I answered sobbing more.

"How did they found out." A long silence answered him as I got an "Oh." From Matt, "What do you need?" He asked now, knowing not to even bother begging me to come home.

"You." I whispered, "I'll pay for your plane ticket and you can stay here and-"

"Jeff, I work." He said before agreeing, "I'll bring you clothes." I got Chris to give him the address and info before hanging up. I lunged at him, putting my face on his chest.

"Thank you." I said, I hadn't even asked him about Matt, he just agreed. I turned, seeing we had an audience, Adam and Jay in the doorway.

"He'll be here tomorrow." Chris told them. Chris slowly got up as Jay came in. I wanted to cling to him so bad. I couldn't just stay here… However he set me back down and guided Jay out. The three of them left my view for a moment. I saw a tissue box and snatched a Kleenex, wiping at my eyes.

Who'd have known in a few days my life could change so badly? The phone started ringing again and before I could hear the angry voice of the team coach, I left the room, and ran upstairs. The wooden steps thumped beneath my feet as I plunged onto the bed again, that was still unmade from my slumber. I put my head in the pillows, imagining that if I just closed my eyes, I could go back in time and everything would be okay again.

Too bad when I opened my eyelids again, everything was still the same. I was still alone in a big house, in a big bed, in a strange place. For the first time in the past few days, how I wished I would be running out onto the dirty field instead.

Chapter Seven

"Jeff? Are you okay?" Chris asked as he came up to me on the bed. I wiped at the stubborn tears and nodded my head.

"I'm fine." I answered.

"Liar." He said coming up beside me on the bed and sitting there. I looked down.

"Chris, for you, this is just like, the off season. I feel so lost…so strange." I answered.

"You'll fit right in, don't worry, Jeff. Adam and Jay adore you, I love you… we can be happy here. And I only want you to be happy." He answered, "I really care for you." I looked up at him, forced to smile when I saw his eyes.

"I love you, too." I whispered, kissing his lips. As I pulled back and I pressed my lips together, wetting them.

"Do you want to come on down… or what?" He asked with concern in his eyes, "I'm worried."

"Don't be, I'll be fine." I replied. He looked at his clock and compared it to his watch before getting up and adjusting the digital one.

"Okay, will you be down in two hours?" He asked.

"Yes," I said, "Do you have any paper?" I asked. He walked out for a moment, to the office I supposed, and came back with a pad and a pencil. I thanked him with a kiss and watched him leave slowly. I felt bad for the stress I was causing on him as I crawled up into the window seat that I adored the instant my butt sat on it and leaned back, staring down at the land below. I sketched a little, just the scenery, but after a moment, the yard began to look more and more my own, even though they were entirely different. I threw the pad down, giving up and standing and stretching.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw some of those prestigious awards and approached the wall and began to look at them closely.

Best hitter 1994 awarded to Christopher Irvine.

Best infielder in the National League awarded to Christopher Irvine.

Play of 1993 awarded to Christopher Irvine for his time with the Toronto Blue Jays.

There were of course pictures of him and teams, trophies… and then I realized that he gave up a lot more then I had for us. I didn't have many awards, and the two I had were from college ball. He… he was on the road to super-star-dome. And he gave it all up for me. I went downstairs, a new feeling in my heart. He was standing up reading mail with Adam and I ran up behind him, spun him around and planted a big ole kiss right on his lips.

I held his face, he was a bit shocked at first before putting his hands on my side as I leaned my head back, smiling and kissing him before. Adam chuckled and opened the next letter while I held his soft hair in my hands.

"What was that for?" He asked breathlessly.

"That was for you. You gave up so much for me." I said kissing his cheek again, holding him. He tightened his grip around my waist kissing my neck.

"I'd give up the world for you." He whispered.

"Ah, young love." Adam muttered and handed Chris a large envelope that said "Rush Delivery- important!" in huge letters. He looked at it and didn't even open it, just tossed it in the trashcan.

"I'm done with ball." He said sweeping me up off my feet and setting me on the high counter. Adam looked at me, his grin widened.

"What did you do to him?" He asked me. I smiled and shrugged. I don't know what it was I did, but I was sure as glad I did it.

************************

That night, I snuggled to Chris, a new feeling of respect for him. The four of us were watching a movie, it was pretty late. I was crawled up in his lap with a blanket over us on one couch, Adam and Jay on the other. His eyes stayed fixated on the screen while he rubbed my back. I set my head against him during the movie. I looked over to see Jay nodding off a little, his head just under Adam's chin, his eyes slowly closing.

I yawned in response to his own exhale and Chris looked down at me.

"Ya tired?" He whispered. I nodded no and turned my eyes back to the movie. Every now and then, I turned and looked up at him, getting all soft and tingly. It seemed like eternity before the movie ended- Jay long asleep on Adam. Adam lifted him up in his arms, blanket and all, and whispered they were going to bed. Chris nodded and turned off the TV as they disappeared up the stairs. Chris looked down at me as I adjusted, straddling his lap, looking straight into his eyes dreamily.

He kissed me softly as I pushed back against him, his head hitting the back of the couch. His hands moved down me and into my baggy pants, holding my butt. He moved me so our hard cocks were against each other as I got a circular movement going on him. I swooped down and kissed him again.

"Come on," He whispered, "Let's go upstairs." He stood up, taking my hand and pulled me upstairs, how we walked all that ways was shocking to me, but when I saw that glorious large bed, it all came back to me. He tossed me on it in the darkness and crawled over me. The soft bed was much nicer then any fancy hotel. He kissed my throat softly and saw the blemishes already on my neck, lightly kissed each. His hands held the bottom of the shirt on my chest and slowly pulled it up and over my body.

"You are the most gorgeous man I've ever set my eyes on." He said sweeping me up in another kiss, pulling his own shirt off. He kissed down my chest, sucking a nip into his mouth, tugging. The scattered blemishes hurt a bit when bit or tugged at, but they were no compare for the utterly pleasant feelings they were replaced with. He pulled his pants off and kissed my own down. He climbed back up as I strained to pec at him, but he held me down.

His soft nibbled continued to my lower stomach, kissing and chewing at the flesh, growing nearer and nearer my cock. He pulled my boxers off as he tugged at my belly button ring and I groaned about. As his mouth enveloped my length, his hands moved to and about my chest, gripping my shoulders as I thrashed beneath. His tongue did wonders on me; I was already leaking a little as I tried to push myself further down his throat. He slowly pulled his head out as I looked down pouting.

He grinned and licked the smooth skin under my balls to my entrance as his tongue teased it a little. I whimpered and watched him, and he momentarily answered me as if he could read my mind.

"Not tonight, we'll just tease." He said, slowly pushing his tongue in my hot hole and flicking about. I growled as his hands held my hips down while he moved in and out, pulling out and spitting on a finger and pushing it in halfway. I shoved against him, not having any warmth in me for as long as I could remember. Getting in all the way, he immediately went for my prostate, driving me wild as I verbally screeched for him.

I pushed back to him, his other hand slowly touching my dripping cock, stroking, his gentle lips kissing. It'd been so long since I had someone loving touching me, caring for me.

"Oh god Chris." I wailed as my body tensed up. His hand on my length was replaced with his mouth as he pulled his finger from me, running his slick hands all over my chest. I finally came in his mouth, gasping and moaning for him, grabbing his hair and pulling him in. When I felt my orgasm slowing, I let go of his head and held back. I could feel his velvet tongue slicking around my stomach, getting all that had dripped out.

When he kissed me, I felt myself on his lips. We'd spared the sheets somehow from becoming a mess as he pulled me up straight on the bed. I lay breathless in his arms and fell asleep to his gentle breath and the sound of his voice telling me he loved me. And I loved him as well, and for the first time in my life, I was sure.

***************

"Jeffy, get some shorts on, someone's at the door." Chris whispered to me. He helped me in some boxers, but I was still clinging to the warm sheets as the bed shifted and he got up, my sleepy eyes quickly falling shut again.

**************

Chris walked downstairs, wiping sleep out of his eyes as the doorbell rang again. It was early, very early. Not much after seven. He pulled the door open and there stood Matt, worried and upset, with several… several suitcases.

"How is he?" Matt asked immediately as Chris tried to assist carrying the bags in, many of which he assumed were Jeff's.

"He's upstairs sleeping, I'll show you to your room and then you can talk with him." Chris grabbed half of the luggage and started up the stairs with a bewildered Matt after setting eyes on the house much bigger then their own. Chris opened a door in the hallway showing off a guest bedroom, done up like many of the other rooms of the house. Matt set the entire luggage down, Chris dropping his own. Matt silently followed Chris back to the bedroom. Chris stopped in front of the door and pushed it open, giving Matt a beautiful glance at a heavenly angel.

Chris walked away as Matt stepped in, approaching his brother, cuddled in the bed.

***************

The bed sunk and I assumed it was Chris once again returning to the soft paradise of his bed. I made a whimper when I felt a hand on my back, a hand different then Chris's.

"Matt?" I said in a whisper. When I opened my eyes soon enough, there he was. I reached up and held him tightly, his frame larger then my own. I felt tears gathering on my eyes as I fought to fight them. He let me go, holding my hands and looking into his eyes.

"Now, can you tell me exactly what happened now?" He asked reminding me all over again as to why I and he were here. I sighed, adverting my eyes; I was never able to look at him when I couldn't tell the truth. He held my chin, making my eyes meet his soft ones again. I pulled back my hair showing the fading blemishes to him.

"Chris's got 'em too." I said as he looked sadly about it, "And… we were a bit loud…" I answered as he blushed a little, but I'd told him everything about my sex life before any ways.

"You can't start that again, Jeff, you can get seriously sick and-"

"Matt, I didn't sleep with him, and Chris had papers! He's clean, and gentle, and listens to me…"

"Be careful?" I promised I would as he held my hand in his.

"What about baseball now?" He answered, "You're under contract…"

"I know." I answered meekly, "But there are ways to get out of it…" I added looking away, "Besides, as long as we're here, we're safe…"

"But you can never go home…"

"This can be my home."

"Jeff, this may be your residence, but it will never be your home." As usual, I knew he was right. Matt was always right, about everything.

"For now it is, I'll go back soon, you're staying for a little right?" I asked looking up at him hopeful.

"I got a weeks leave for my vacation Jeff, and I damn near got my ass kicked for that." Matty'd do anything for me, "Listen, you need some sleep, get back to it, I brought you some things from HOME, we'll talk more later." I nodded, kissing his cheek and hugging him. He pulled the blankets up on me before partially closing the door and leaving.

***********************

Some time later, I awoke again and went downstairs to the sound of voices. Everyone was sitting around talking and I was a little upset I hadn't been included, but quickly got over it.

"Matt was just telling us about himself." Chris said as I stood nodding, still a bit sleepy.

"You just love to snooze huh?" Adam asked chuckling. I blushed and nodded, I didn't want to be known around here like that really.

"I just never got much sleep while playing, I'm gonna enjoy it now." I answered. I sat on the couch between Matt and Chris, feeling so content between the people who care for me most. Chris put his hand on my knee and gave it a squeeze.

"How come the phone isn't ringing?" I asked as a sly grin came to his face.

"I unplugged all the phones." He answered. I smiled, and felt safe. Very safe.

"All of your things I brought you are in your room." Matt said, at least I had some clothes now. We sat there for a little, growing antsy and hungry.

"Let's go somewhere." I said.

"Where to, sugar?" Chris asked as Matt stood up a bit straighter, but by now I think he was adjusted to my boyfriends and me. At first he'd been totally freaked by it, especially displays of affection.

"SOMEWHERE. How about food?" I offered. He talked about some sit down place and we agreed as we headed off to get dressed. I went with Chris to his room and found some suitcases on the floor. Thanking god for Matt, I popped he first I changed into it, hearing the rustles as Chris made the bed.

"You gonna be alright?" He asked fluffing the pillows. I said I would and pulled a shirt over, him putting his arms around my waist.

"You're strong Jeff, you're strong." He repeated before taking my hand and going downstairs to where the others were already waiting. In the car, Chris, Matt and myself sat in the back, Adam and Jay up front, me in the middle. Chris had his arm around me, Matt regaining his cool. It had been a while since he'd seen me with a man. Adam drove on slowly through the empty streets and we got out, walking into a small place. Outside was a newspaper machine as I looked down, for a subtitle for the sports section, low and behold, there was out pictures with a little sub-title "Missing players" Chris saw it, pulling me away from the machine and inside.

I was super conscience of myself, even though it seemed as if everywhere I went someone new was staring at me. Chris said it was just my imagination. Perhaps it was, perhaps it wasn't. Inside, we sat down and ate quietly in the corner, I think even though he'll never admit it, Chris was a bit paranoid as well. After we ate, the ride home was very quiet. Chris was holding me tightly, pressing my forehead to his chest trying to reassure me. As we pulled in the driveway, everyone started out, Chris holding on tome telling them to leave.

Matt was a bit skeptical at first, but went to as we watched them all disappear into the house.

"What did I tell you?" He asked softly, holding my hands.

"Not to worry." I grumbled. He pressed his forehead to mine, leaning up and pulling mine up as well. His lips kissed my forehead while his fingers twirled around my hands.

"And what are you doing?" He asked gently again.

"Worrying." I replied sadly.

"All you need is love." He sang softly, I chuckled a little, "I'm gonna take care of you, me, us. Don't worry… I've got it under control." I held him, sobbing a little.

"What would I do without you?" I whispered lightly as he rocked me against him, "I don't know… But I'm glad I won't have to worry about that." He kissed my cheek before gripping my hand and walking me in the house.

Part Eight

It wasn't long until the cell phones started ringing off the hook; Chris turned all of those off. He seemed so… prepared. Like, he anticipated this happened, it was all part of a play-book or something.

"Come on, we're going upstairs. Adam, when they come, say we're not here." Chris said, they were coming? He took my hand in his again as we ran up the steps, my feet quickly pattering behind his. We went in his room and shut the door, he locked it and shut the windows and pulled the curtains.

"How do you what to do?" I finally asked, my curiosity getting the best of me. I sat on his lap on the bed, his fingers absently running through my head.

"Some things my dear Jeff, some things, you just know… you understand what I mean?" I said I did, even though I had no clue how he could anticipate all of this like he was. Sure enough, a few minutes later I heard the loud ding of the doorbell and someone downstairs opening it. Their voices were un-audible up here. After a few minutes, the door was shut again and Adam yelled for us to come down. He had a large box with some paperwork on top. He dropped it at Chris's feet.

"We're free." Chris said before he even looked at anything. He opened the manila folder to a set of contracts. Release contracts. Inside the box was little things we had here or there… socks, keys, what have you. He handed me the paper with my name on it as my unbelieving eyes scanned it. They did it… no fight…

"I think they realized that they lost." He said happily as Chris continued reading his paper and walked into the sitting room.

Major League Baseball Emergency Release Form

Player: Jeffry Hardy

Team : Raleigh Radicals

League: American
Division: East

Position: First base

Bats: R

Throws : R

Player Full Name: Jeffry Nero Hardy

DOB: August 23, 1973

Contract start: April 2, 1999

Contract End: August 17, 2001

Reason : Not comment

Hair: Blonde

Eyes: Green

Height: 6'1

Weight: 218 lbs

Address: 4292 North Hill Road
Cameron, NC 23381

Emergency notification:

Matt Hardy

3927 Evergreen Drive
Cameron, NC 23381

(538) 831-3842

Head Coach Signature- Coach Benjamin Lough 8/17/2001

Major League Baseball Commissioner Signature - David Callery 8/17/2001

Player Signature-

That was it… there were several pages of small font after it all, but Chris passed me a pen and I quickly signed into freedom. His looked similar to mine, and we placed them back in a envelope, addressed and all, and gave it to Adam. He went outside as I looked at Chris.

"Those sons of bitches did it." He said laughing holding me, "Those sons of bitches did it!" He kissed me, the most romantic kiss yet holding me against him, laughing and crying. As was I, tears staining my face, my lips curled into a huge grin. Matt was standing by Jay, watching on. So much happened so soon… I couldn't believe it. Chris and me tried to compose ourselves, wiping at our faces and such.

"This is amazing." I whispered.

"That's it… we're gonna celebrate." Chris said, disappearing, and coming back a moment later with a bottle of wine and three glasses. He popped he lid, filled the three cups, and handed one to Matt, one to Adam, and kept one to himself.

"To everlasting love and freedom." He said, toasting and giving me a sip from it, holding me close as we shared. I was tucked away under Chris's arm, every now and then he brought the cold glass to my lips and letting the crimson wine slide down my throat.

Adam and Chris exchanged looks a few times, before both smiling. Adam gave Jay the look, he smiled… that left me and Matt in the dark.

"Clubbing." Chris said to me, I held his waist. This is definitely going down as the happiest day in my life… this one tops the cake. The rest of the day, things seemed to get back to usual… at least, was I presumed to be the usual. I had went through the bags of things Matt brought me, he knew just what I would want. The bruises were quickly disappearing, you could barely see them now.

For the next few hours, we just roamed around, I was intent on staring at my treasures from home. A little later, around seven, Chris came into the room, I was still looking at all of the things Matt had packed…

"Come on, wanna go shower?" He asked. I grinned, running into his arms. We passed Matt in the hallway, I winked at him as we disappeared into the tiled, white bathroom. I grinned and aw'ed at the large bathtub, filled with bubbles and yet more champagne. There were a few candles lit and the lights dimmed. He slowly pulled my shirt over my head, tossing it away, kissing me as he got my pants off. I kissed back, trying to help disrobe him as well. Our feet were slick to the floor, as he stepped into the warmth, reaching out to me as I went in after him.

The water was nice and hot, soft bubbles around. I sat in his lap, leaning back, it was blissful. We were quiet for a minute or two when he started to rub my back a little and wash my arms. Our slick skin felt heavenly against each other, his hair down, he's worn it like that a lot often now. The softness of the cloth felt as if it were barely touching me.

"Tonight is going to be wild." He said, "Adam talked to Matt, Matt said he wouldn't mind going." Chris added. I smiled, THIS was my family. I gathered some bubbles in my hand, plopping them on Chris's hair giggling. He chuckled and smeared some on me as I turned about in his lap, kissing him. His cock was sitting up now, as was my own slowly raising. He nipped at my face before softly kissing me again.

I moaned against his lips as his hand found my ass and started to knead it gently, and reached under finding my heavy balls and rolling them softly in his slick hand. I gripped his face with my hands and sucked his lips into my own, getting on my knees on either side of him and rubbing our cocks directly into each other. His lifts left mine own and kissed my chest, his skillful mouth pulling each but into little pecs of hardness. I gasped and stretched out my sensitive neck, now not needing to hide, begged him to mark me again.

His soft lips kissed my tender flesh and his hot tongue did wonders. He sucked a little flesh up, doing the most sensational things to me. I kissed him back, licking around his sharp facial hair and kissing his Adam's apple.

"Chris, we're gonna be late!" Adam yelled from outside the door, Chris looked at me, a bit angrily.

"Five minutes!" He yelled with a little squeak to his voice as I ground up to him once more.

"Three!" Adam yelled back. I decided to put it to over time now, knowing I'd have my way later as well. I reached down and started to pump him, jerking him back and force quickly. He gasped again before I faintly felt him spurting in the water, not even waiting until he was fully done, he started on me, kissing me roughly and squeezing my balls again, fingering my hole. I yelled his name loudly, perhaps too loudly, and joined him in bliss. We grabbed some towels and darted to the bedroom.

I quickly started to get dressed, finding a little black thong Matt had stuffed in a bag and pulling it on. Thankful for some of my red leather pants I pulled those on with a tight black vinyl shirt. I didn't even look at Chris as I yanked all jewelry within eyesight on and my big boots- those of which I couldn't live without. I looked faintly normal for myself, but when I saw Chris, I nearly fell over.

He had on a pair of black vinyl baggy pants that had little holes around and a tight black sheer shirt with some serious gothic apparel.

"I knew you'd like this place." He said stuffing his wallet in his pocket and taking my hand, his fingers were covered in huge silver rings and chains, a leopard print choker complete with spikes and all adorned his neck. The others were already downstairs, Matt is going to stick out like a sore thumb… but I just smiled at him. Adam was dressed very… dominantly? He also had leather on (I was assuming this was going to be the theme of the night) with what looked like a dog leash- two dog leashes in his hand. Jay had on tight black shorts, short shorts, and high boots with chains all over. He had on a choker like Chris, and even more jewelry then I think I owned all together.

Adam handed me one of the leashes and I looked at him with a questioning eye. Chris pulled his hair up showing me the latch on the choker. I grinned and held the leash in my hand as we piled in the car. Matt grinned at me as we drove off.

We went into the club, where it was just wild. Chris grinned and hooked the leash, Adam and Jay already gone. Matt said he was gonna get a drink and hide in a corner. I pulled Chris to me, locking his lips in my own. That night really was blurry, I don't know if I could explain much to you here. We got some drinks and I pulled him around, I think someone slipping something in our glasses when we turned because… it was wild. However, I could never forget what happened after the club.

Matt found us making out on the floor in a corner, I remember that, the leash was behind him somewhere and Chris was pressed against the brick wall while I let my tongue invade his mouth again, our boners proudly sticking out of the tight pants. Matt came over and pulled my hair a little. I swung my head up, eyes glazed over.

"Time to go." He yelled loudly. I tried to get up, only falling back to Chris, laughing hysterically. Matt sighed and lifted me up, holding me for balance, getting Chris as well. This wasn't the first time he'd saved my ass from being drunk off of its end. We found Adam and Jay doing what appeared to be fucking with clothes on, very erotic in a sense. Matt drove us all home, as you could imagine, Chris and me necking wildly in the back, Adam and Jay not separated, but Jay was whispering dirty things in Adam's ears from the back.

We stumbled home, and some how me and Chris made it upstairs, Jay pulled Adam up as well. We toppled into his room, I immediately went to the task of ripping his clothes off and kissing him. He groaned against me again.

"Let's do it." I whispered dirtily into his ear, breathing heavily. He was in sheer lust, and somehow we managed out of the rest of our clothes. I threw Chris on the bed, licking him from head to toe, his cock oozing with pre cum as it was. He flipped us over, putting him on the dominant position and spreading my legs quickly. His tongue quickly shoved into my hot entrance, quickly replaced by a finger going to work. I wanted him so bad.

His finger hit my prostate as I yelled loudly with pleasure, urging him on. My cock slapped against my stomach, so hard it almost pained me to want release so bad. I heard a cap click and my legs thrown over my head; I held them with my arms as some lube slid in me.

"Ready?" He asked pushing his head in me, a long groan escaping his lips. He pushed himself in my little prepared ass, but I could scarcely feel the discomfort. He leaned up, nipping and kissing at me, pushing until he was in to the hilt. I panted as he started to move in and out forcefully and skill fully.

"Oh God Chris, fuck me! Fuck me hard" I yelled as he grunted and sped up, the mattress on the bed bumping to and fro with each thud. He stretched to claim my lips once more. The room was flying around me as the pleasure increased, the tip of his cock slamming into my prostate when he angled right. He handled my balls a little more, squeezing and pinching. I tried to help and push back to him, finding it hard to do being pinned down as I was.

"I love you." He said, each word pounding into me. He let out a shrill shriek, my name somewhere in the mess of words, as I felt him start to tighten in me and slow down, he kept trying to push, sweat and perspiration dripping everywhere as the hot spurts started. Feeling in me like this was… amazing. I felt myself trembling from beneath, somehow through his mask of indulgence, him urging me on to cum with him. Which I did, his hands trying to catch my seed as it shot out, smearing my chest. We calmed down together, he licked his hand clean, holding our messy chests together, whispering how we loved each other.

And that's how I woke up, only with a pounding headache and a nauseating feeling in the pit of my stomach. He groaned beside me, pulling me closer. I kissed his lips as he held his head, indicating it hurt just as much as mine, if not more so. He held me close, out bodies almost sticking together from the bodily fluids hardening with us.

"That was great… last night." He whispered, I faintly nodded as we shared a kiss. We went and showered and walked downstairs, Jay contently curled up to Adam, smiling widely. Adam grinned and they kissed briefly.

"Have fun?" Jay asked winking at me. I blushed a little and smiled, Chris pulling his arm around me as we sat down. THAT was one of the best days of my life. Matt slept late, we just all huddled together like a big happy family in the living room. It was that day, that I realized, against what I had believed a few short weeks prior, baseball wasn't life, true love did exist and yes ladies and gentlemen, the second basemen of whom I was in love with… did love me back. And that, my friends, is all you need.

Play Ball Epilogue

It was maybe four months later, Matt had went home to North Carolina, I told him that I thought my home had changed, I was meant to be here. We spent day in and day out together, we had lots of money, and didn't have to work. Because we were officially released, and I had three years on my contract, and Chris had a whopping seven, we were basically getting paid to sit on our asses, life was good.

But Matt still came up and visited as often as he could. But… remember how I said that was the happiest day of my life? Times change…

It was a late November day, snow everywhere… one of the things I DIDN'T like about living here. It was dark outside and me and Chris were in front of the fire with a blanket over us, hearing the blaze crackle. He kissed me and excused himself for a moment. I curled up to the warmth as he came back a few minutes later. He sat back down, pulling me close again.

"Hun?" He asked as I looked up, he swallowed hard, he was nervous, "Jeff… I love you."

"I love you too." I answered smiling, he pulled some hair from my face and set me aside getting in front of the couch on a knee and taking my hand. Oh my God, I could hear the wedding bells in my head. He pulled out a box and showed me the most gorgeous ring I'd ever seen, "Will you make me the happiest man on Earth… will you marry me?" He slid the ring on my finger, kissing it.

"Yes!" I squealed as I left into his arms, he pulled me up and we kissed, softly, in the light of the fire and winter moon. And that's where I am going to leave you off. Adam and Jay still live with us and we are buy as ever making wedding plans… Matt of course will be there, along with several of Chris's close friends. I met his parents last week, and they love me, we get along great. And they like my purple hair.

We set the date for May 19th, with the spring air and the flowers blooming. And for once, I can say honestly, I am happy.