Love On The Runway
Author's Notes: This is an AU. None of the people mentioned in this story are being slandered or misrepresented. It's all fiction. None of this is true.
Summery: It's model!Nsync. It's all in the style, baby!
Pairings: JC/Justin; Nick/Kevin
Love On The Runway
By Dane
Part 1:
Joshua Scott Chasez, as what he calls himself on all his resumes, JC Chasez, sighed loudly as he helped clean out the last of the food scraps off the dirty dishes into a trash bag and knotted it up for collection. He was beginning to wonder if his decision of going to New York after college was such a good idea. There were simply no jobs available for someone who has a degree in music and art in a place that is full of musicians and artists. Only the minimum wage occupations were out there and it was getting fucking tedious.
"I swear," he said as he moved the full trash bags into the back alley, "if nothing happens in a months time, I will pack up my bags and go back to Chicago."
Not that he was complaining, he loved the city and all its complications but sometimes there is such a thing as too many complications. Being here for three years, going on four, was starting to take its toll. He did practically everything under the sun to get recognition; it was just that recognition didn't want anything to do with him, not that he was bad looking. In fact, he was quite the opposite. Sure, he was geeky and awkward when he was in high school, but college and real life changed all that. Hardly anyone would know that the muscular, sensual, and enigmatically attractive man that they see now was the Spazz that they knew way back in the day. Even in a plain blue jeans and white t-shirt, people, both men and women, would literally trip and fall in a daze whenever he would pass by. Despite his beauty, it only got him so far here.
"Hey Mikey! I'm leaving, okay?" JC shouted as he stepped out of the corner diner where he worked. He walked away and allowed his mind to wander off into the night. He pulled his brown leather jacket closer to his body and enumerated his woes mentally.
"I have two jobs that are going nowhere. I got no friends to talk to. No one wants to hire me even for a nude sketch model. My family is half a continent away. I got no boyfriend, not even a love interest. And my rent is due." He breathed out a heavy sigh. "Well, at least I know things can't get any worse than they already are. If only I didn't have to save my money, I could just go out and get myself plastered." His walk home to his small apartment only served to depress him even further. As he closed off and bolted his door, JC noticed the red light blinking on his answering machine. "Must be some telemarketer trying to sell me a vacuum cleaner or something," he muttered. He pressed on the retrieve button and walked to the refrigerator. He quickly disregarded the first two messages, paused to note himself to call his mother on the third one, and then suddenly spitted out the milk he was drinking upon hearing the fourth one. He ran up to the machine and pressed the repeat button, abandoning the liquid mess he left on the kitchen floor.
"Jace, James Bass here," said the recorded voice of his agent. "I know you aren't home but I have some really good news. A friend of mine is looking for fresh new faces for an ad campaign that he's setting up. He came to me and then I thought of you. If you are interested, call up my secretary to set up an appointment within the week."
JC repeated the message another three times to hear if he got that right. New hope in his veins, he did a good impression of a koosh ball being tossed around, as he jumped for joy. When he settled in for the night, for the first time in months, he slept like a log.
* *
The office of James Bass was typical for a New York talent scout. It was designed to be part of a larger workspace of chaotic order full of other scouts and secretaries. Grays and blues mixed in with pictures of faces that JC was sure to be familiar with if only he browsed through GQ magazine and Vogue more often. The people, all dressed in impeccably stylish work outfits, did they're seemingly frantic version of a bunch of headless chickens, all the while talking and judging pretty people on black and white photos.
JC cringed at the thought of the pictorials he had to go through at Lance's insistence. That was about a year ago and until now he still had a hard time believing that was 'him' on that piece of glossy paper. He totally looked different even if James said that he looked amazing in it.
"Mr. Chasez," said the redhead secretary with large frame glasses who interrupted his thoughts. "Mr. Bass will now see you." JC stood up and followed the girl. As they walked to a desk in the far corner near the windows where James was, he noticed the extra big smile and the seductively slow movements of her stride. He knew that she was trying to flirt with him, as she kept on looking back at him and showed a little more of her cleavage. JC just rolled his eyes mentally as not to offend her and tell her that he wanted sausage. She gestured towards a chair on and winked at him as she sauntered out to her own desk. A shiver ran down his spine and had to sit down.
The wait wasn't long as James Bass, boy genius and agent to the catwalk walkers, appeared. His impeccable gray suit shimmered lightly as it accentuated his pearly whites and his carefully cut hair that seemed to defy gravity. If he were anymore shmoozy then he would be a salesman in a car dealership. Despite the limited work that managed to get from him, namely being a movie extra and a few minor stints in some TV shows, he did show his effort.
As James sat down, they shook hands in greeting and got down to business. "Jace, I have very good news for you," said the agent would was beaming with excitement. "You have been selected to be part of a short list of models to join a special Ad campaign. The hoopla is so big that it's going to spark everything up not only in the fashion world, but society itself."
JC all of a sudden felt unsure of himself. He knew that this maybe his big break, but from what James is telling him, it was more of make or break, no in between.
"Okay, I'll bite. What's the campaign? What's all the hype that's making you all jumpy and shit? And who is heading up this campaign?"
With dramatic tension, James paused and said, "Christopher Kirkpatrick."
JC's eyes went wide with surprise. His mouth dropped to the floor, adrenalin pumped into his heart, and his grip on the chair he was sitting on tightened. The even stare of disbelief never wavered as James simply nodded.
Christopher Kirkpatrick, or CK as he is known in the fashion industry, was a well respected as part of the new blood royalty of designers. His peers include the likes of Stella McCarthy and Alexander McQueen. He was notorious for his innovative style and very provocative tendency to shock people. Other than that, he was also famous for introducing the new 'It' supermodel on his shows and campaigns. If the name that James just said to him was correct then he could most possibly be the next Marcus Schenkenberg.
"Did I hear correctly? Christopher Kirkpatrick?"
"Yes, my dear Joshua. CK himself placed you on a short list of new models for his next campaign. It's going to be his jeans wear this time around. And rumor has it that he will also consider some of you for the underwear line, which will practically cement your status as a supermodel."
JC, of course was shocked, but still had a few questions in mind. "Okay, so I'm considered in that list. My question now is how in the hell does he even know me? Other than the few jobs that you actually been able to produce for me, I've had only limited exposure. How the hell did he choose me?"
James pulled out a small folder from his files and opened its contents to JC. "Remember the resume that I sprung up to pay for when I discovered you awhile back. Well the other day, the big boss man up above asked every one of us to bring in their own 'favorite' short list of their own clients that are not well-known. I wrote down your name and the boss man brought it down to about 50 people. Out of that 50, CK choose about 4 from that tentative list. All in all, CK has to choose about 4 or 5 models out of 20 prospectives, your name included. I found out a few days ago about this when the boss man told me about the whole thing. He told me to handle the deal and work with you and the others chosen, to see that at least one of our models get to be part of that group of 4 or 5. All I can say is that you've been very lucky so far, Jace. Few have ever graced to even been considered by CK himself."
Worry then formed on JC's handsome features. He still couldn't believe it. It was like at any moment his chances where going to be pulled away and that he was going to board a plane to Chicago to live like normal. Panic shot through him like a lightning bolt.
"I can't do this. I haven't done even a single ramp walk. Now you are telling me that I'm going to be a supermodel, and that is not even sure. Shit! I'm freaking out!" JC tried to calm himself but agitation kept on coming until James went around his desk and placed his hand on JC's to reassure him.
"Jace, it's okay to be afraid. Every single model that's made it big had your problem. Eileen Ford had to go through with this every single day with her stable of young women. Tyson Beckford almost lost a leg before he went out on the ramp on his first show. Heck, even the godly Naomi herself felt that she was unworthy of her position when she first started. What I'm saying is that it's okay to feel like you are going to throw up. It's perfectly natural."
James then went back to his seat and pulled out some papers. "Now to help you out in your problem, I'm going to push you right in to the fire. Diane from Gucci asked if there was anyone that I could spare to replace one of guys that broke his leg before the Gucci show in a few days time. I recommend you."
The shock in JC's face slowly gave way to a minute smile of joy. Even if this deal wouldn't pull through, at least he would be able to do one of the few think that got him to accept James' offer to manage him. A few seconds to be part of those beautiful people. If this was a dream then JC didn't want anything to wake him."
"Are you up for it?" asked James with confident hopefulness.
JC shook himself out of his daze and nodded vigorously. "Hell yeah! Even if this campaign doesn't push through, I'm still taking whatever you're going to throw at me."
The smile James gave JC was positively blinding. "Okay, if you have the time later until about 9pm tonight, go the Gucci store and look for Diane. She'll have you fitted for an outfit and run you through any questions. If you don't have time today, anytime tomorrow is okay but it will be rushing everything."
"I'll go there later around three. I've got some errands to run anyway." JC stood up. "Will there be anything else?"
"No, just give me a call if you have any problems. If they some you a contract to sign, come here immediately. I want to look it through and see if there are any hang-ups."
"No problem. Now if there is anything else, James?" The agent shook his head. "Okay, I'm off. I'll try to pass by later if they give me a contract to sign. Later!" Both of them parted ways. JC then decided to go to the diner and quit his night job. 'Hey, I deserve some more indulgence than this job offer. Quitting that stinking old diner will be sweet," he thought to himself as he passed the flirting secretary in a hurry and down the elevator. A quick shiver passed through his body again as the elevator doors closed.
Part 2:
To JC, it was like a whirlwind. After quitting his job at the diner, going to the Gucci Store on Fifth Ave for the fitting, and signing the contract, it was like nothing could slow down. Nothing in his life could have prepared him for what's waiting outside that stage.
Originally, JC has been slated for only one outfit. Namely, a black mohair lapel suit with a white cotton long sleeve shirt with barrel cuffs, a bronze woven silk tie, and a pair of black crocodile boots with some funky stitching on it. As he was being fitted into the suit that he was going to walk in, Tom Ford came into the store. Diane introduced him to the designer and creative director of Gucci. As they talked with the small talk, Tom appraised him and asked his store assistants to set up two more outfits for JC. With wide eyes and slightly opened mouth, Tom left but not before saying, 'Good luck.'
The day before the show, he managed to arrive at the venue barely on time. He felt considerably out of place with the other models present. They style and beauty just practically oozed out of their pores. JC felt very self-conscious what with him only wearing a pair of worn blue jeans, a plain white shirt, and a hand-me-down leather jacket that he got from a thrift store.
As that day wore on, JC managed to befriend some of the models. Kevin Richardson was cool. Virtually having the same background as he only he lived in Kentucky. Nick Carter was okay, when he wasn't acting like an annoying little brother. Diane said that one model was not there because of a flight delay and that he would have to make up for it later. Dress rehearsal was surprisingly easy, if not boring at some points. Kevin and Nick both to teach in teaching JC the basics of how to walk the catwalk.
"It's pure instinct from there afterwards," said Nick as he explained at some of the things that JC needed to know. JC was practicing his walk while Nick commented on it. "Just remember. Focus. Posture. Gait. And Relax. No use having the first three if you don't have the fourth." Kevin sat down beside him and opened his water bottle. He took a swig of it and then lightly kissed Nick on the cheek. Nick tensed a bit but relaxed when he saw JC's reaction. "We have been together for 2 years."
"Congratulations."
"Thanks," said Kevin as he encircled Nicks waist with his hands. "Still feel like you're going to throw up or something?"
"Or Something! I can't help it. I feel like I'm going to trip on some imaginary piece of rock in front of everybody," JC thought aloud as the mental picture of Sarah Jessica Parker falling to her Fashion Week disaster on that particular episode of 'Sex and the City' came to mind. "Shit! I hope I don't embarrass myself out there."
Nick and Kevin just smiled, as JC continued to practice.
* *
It was now about an hour and a half before the show and JC was nervous as a train wreck. All around him, people were milling about their business. The other male models were being manhandled and prepared by the stylists and the wardrobe people. Stage crew and pre-show visitor were making themselves at home, along with members of the Paparazzi and some agents with cell phones. Water bottles were everywhere and the 'No Smoking' sign never stopped some of these people to bring out their nicotine sticks. These were the usual scenes that you see on 'Fashion TV' but it was like a whole different world.
Looking around to his more immediate vicinity, he noticed that the chair beside him was empty. The stylists were yet to do anything to him and he was slowly getting impatient. Luckily, he was still nervous and didn't really focus on anything else except trying to calm himself down.
He thought about what may happen tonight. One outfit was scary enough because at least he only had to go out there once. But since he had to go out there three times, scared shitless didn't even cover what he was feeling at the moment. He looked over to the clothing that he was going to showcase to the crowd and the second one made him doubt big time. He wasn't even sure if it was fit for public display. It mainly consists of a black denim shorts that felt close to booty shorts and a white net cotton tank top. It looks like he was just wearing underwear, and not much at that. The aviator glasses were cool to accessorize the whole 'summer look', but he truly didn't know how to figure out the Greek wrap cord sandals.
Then a sudden commotion to his left side woke him up from his thoughts. A man about twenty sat down on the empty chair beside him. He removed his bucket hat and revealed the curliest, most unruly set of blond hair that JC has ever seen. His jaw dropped when he saw the guys face. Possibly, the bluest pair of eyes that ever existed. The guy saw him staring, smiled with a mouth that was made to pout, and extended his hand in greeting.
"Justin Timberlake, the missing model who went AWOL because of a family emergency," said the guy with his smooth tenor. JC could just look dumbly at the unbelievable exquisiteness that sat before him. "Hello."
JC woke up to reality and shook Justin's hand. "JC Chasez, new model who feels like he's losing it."
Justin laughed and slapped JC's shoulder. "I like you already. Let me guess. Nick and Kevin took you under their wing and showed you the ropes."
"Yeah, they did. They got me down everything. Say? How many outfits are you going to wear out there later?" asked JC, hoping that he didn't sound like a total idiot.
Suddenly, a PA descended upon them, interrupting them and asking questions and stuff, then a word to her radio sent a pair of stylist their way. As both of them got their hair done by a couple of women with really funky do's, Justin replied without looking back at JC, though JC wished that he did. "Three, namely a suit near the end, some artist slacker wear, and the skin shocker."
"Skin shocker?"
Justin smiled. "It's what I call the outfit with the least amount of layers on it. Mine's a spandex swimsuit and a pair of glasses."
"Jesus! And here I thought I got the bad end of it. The designer has me going out there in booty shorts and a transparent tank top.
"Okay boys! You're done," said the PA. "Go put on your first outfit, then come back here for make-up. Try not to wrinkle the suits, okay."
JC looked at Justin and grinned, his nervousness slowly going away as Justin's calming presence soothed his nerves. "Lead the way," he said and gestured with his right hand. Justin smiled and moved ahead of him in the chaos of the backstage.
As Justin motioned towards the clothes racks, JC openly stared at Justin's butt that was currently incased in a pair of cargo pants, the movements of his walk making them very scrumptious to look at. When they reached the racks, two wardrobe mistresses handed them their outfits and told them to strip. Justin did as they were told instantly. Not wanting to look like a prune, JC followed though trying not to look too much on Justin's brick house of a body as he swaggered his hips to drop his pants. The wardrobe ladies gathered their effects and told them that they'll place them on their tables for them later. With a few adjustments here and there, JC had to admit that he looked positively radiant.
"Heather is going to flip when I send the family a tape of this show," he thought to himself quietly, and then he looked to his right and almost fell off his feet.
Justin wore a black pinstripe suit with white/tan wingtip shoes. The edge cut T-shirt underneath the blazer made his neck longer. On a subconscious level, he just wanted to peel off each layer and lick every inch of exposed skin that he could touch, seeing just how sexy he was in a suit. Shaking his head again for what seemed to be the hundredth time today, JC just trailed back to his table where the make-up artists were waiting with Justin behind him.
"Shit! Get a grip, Chasez. You only met the guy," thought JC as the make-up guy attack his face with a little foundation. He stared straight ahead towards the mirror, only looking to his right with his eyes at Justin when he's distracted by something of someone, and answering his questions as little as possible as not to feel further embarrassment.
"God! He's beautiful. Like some angel from the heavens or some Greek god." JC blinked for a second. "Shit! When did I become a half-sappy teenaged girl?" he asked himself as he resisted the urge to slap himself on the head.
"Okay, people! 10 minutes till show time. Everyone who's not part of the show, get out!" shouted a burly production manager. Soon, everyone was kissing everybody else on one cheek or another and saying 'good luck' as some left to get seated for the Gucci Spring/ Summer Collection 2002 for Men.
The production manager then started to spout out the routine that was ingrained in JC's head during the dress rehearsal. He ordered everyone to their places and to wait for their cue. Since he was fourth in line to go out, the nervousness came back to him in full force. The other models gave him sympathetic smiles but offered no assurances.
Sensing JC's nervousness, Justin placed a reassuring hand on JC's shoulder and that calmed him down enough. A grateful smile was flashed in his direction before JC stepped into the line of vision of the audience and started to walk. With a final adjustment of the suit, Justin waited a few moments before following out to the ramp.
Part 3:
The show was a success. Tom Ford walked out to the walkway flanked by all the male models, the audience giving a standing ovation. As JC walked behind Kevin, he sighed in relief. His first show was better than what he expected. He didn't make a mistake nor did he consign himself to the nearest trash bin to throw up. The ovations from the fashionable trendy people only made his ego bigger. He knew that was a sign that he was on his way up.
Looking to his side, Justin was walking right beside him. "Damn!" he thought. "He looks good in a tank." Justin wore a blue tank with a woman with peacock feathers design embroidered on it, some black/white wingtips, and some blue washed jeans. If it weren't for the shoes and the design on the tank, JC could have sworn that he spent the day lounging on a couch, sprawled out it some sexy pose and a come hither look. Shaking his head of that particular imagery, he just trailed along the line until they were backstage again. Everyone congratulated everyone else and got ready for the after-party in the Fifth Avenue store.
As JC was removing all of the make-up from his face, Tom Ford approached him.
"JC, you did an amazing first time on the walk tonight. You are even better than the guy that you replaced," the designer said as he thumped JC's back.
"Thank you, Mr. Ford. I really appreciate it."
"Please, call me Tom. And as a show of my appreciation, pick your favorite outfit and its yours."
JC gaped. He thought quickly and decided on the one he was wearing. "I would like to get this one that I'm wearing." The designer smiled as JC profiled the blue Viole shirt, the charcoal gray pants, and the canvas lace-ups that he wore on his last walk before the end. He wasn't really sure what he would do with the shoes, but he was sure as hell going to get the shirt to indulge his fantasies as a bohemian artist.
"Good choice. Listen, since you are wearing it already, can you wear it to the after-party? Call it my own version of free advertising."
"Sure, I'm good to go anyway." JC started to load his bag with his things.
"Excellent!" Justin just came in and greeted Tom. "Justin, I'll see you later in the party. Please make sure that JC goes there all right. I don't want the show's lifesaver get out free without at least some glam shots and a few ounces of alcohol in his system."
Justin laughed. "I'll take good care of him. We'll see you later." With a smirk, the designer left the two to their own devices.
"So, are you really going to go to the party? It would be a shame if you didn't come along," asked Justin as he applied some cold cream to his face.
JC shrugged. "I guess, but I don't really know anyone. Other than Kevin, Nick, and you, I don't really know anybody in the business. This show was only given to me a few days ago. My agent told me that this show would give me more exposure. I was apprehensive at first, but now I'm glad I took up this job."
"Don't worry. I'll take care of you." Justin placed his arm around JC's shoulders and made him tingle with delight. "I'll introduce you to some people, mingle a bit, then head out for a late dinner. I don't know about you but a show always gives me an appetite."
The smile on JC's face could just light up the entire city. "Sure, I'd like that."
Justin piled his things into his bag and led JC away to the exit. "We can also invite Kevin and Nick is they don't have any plan later." JC just nodded at the prospect of this being a date, of sorts.
* *
The after party was at full swing with fashionistas socializing with models, actors, socialites, and others that are defined as 'beautiful people'. No one was without a drink in hand, and it was amazing on how much skin can be shown in one room without anyone getting naked. The Gucci store looked different now, all in dark tones and subdued lighting, as if to set up an intimate mood. Left and right, the chatter was mindless to the uninitiated.
JC felt like Alice when she went through the looking glass.
With a tug on his cuffed sleeve, JC was awoken from his trance by Justin who thrusted a shot glass of some unidentifiable concoction. He downed it and nearly choked on it.
"What the fuck is this shit?"
Justin just smiled unrepentantly. "It's Goldschlagger. Cinnamon Schnapps with itty-bitty pieces of gold in it. It kicks worse than tequila sometimes but the hangover goes away faster than a Roadrunner cartoon." As if to show a point, he downed his glass and wiped his mouth with his sleeve, then he gave JC an impish grin. JC's heart just skipped a beat. Just then someone latched on to Justin.
"Save me!" the tall girl with straight golden brown hair commanded. To JC's shock, Justin complied by dipping the girl and kissing her fully on the lips. He heard a gasp from the direction from which the model, or at least he presumed she was a model, came from. A big, burly guy in a silk suit gaped at the locking pair and huffed away in anger. Once he left their view, the girl removed herself from Justin and checked herself for any imperfection on her outfit. "Thank God that idiot is gone! I remembered telling him no from the last party and he still doesn't get it."
Justin chuckled and faced his new friend. "JC, I would like to introduce to you my ex, Amanda Moore. Mandy, this is JC Chasez, new model in town."
Once the shock rubbed off him, JC regained his composure and shook hands with Mandy, jealousy tingeing in his brain. The girl was tall, about the same height as Justin with heels. But despite her Anna Kournikova stature, she still looked like she was sixteen. All traces of envy dissipated when the next few words came out of her mouth.
"So how was the date I set you up with last week? Was he okay?" she asked nonchalantly, grabbing a bottled water from a passing waiter.
"You call that a date," sneered Justin with soft disdain. "That Jeff guy was so boring, he could make a sloth fall asleep. After dinner, I didn't even bother to bring him up to my apartment for the obligatory fucking. From the conversation alone, I could tell that he's a cold fish in bed."
Mandy slapped his arm. "How can you say that about my cousin?!? He's a nice guy."
"That's the problem. He's too nice. I don't need nice. Nice is boring. I need a challenge and the occasional drama to make it interesting. Can you imagine that he wanted to court me and not have sex until after the fifth date? I would have been touched if it didn't sound so Pollyanna." He grabbed a glass of something from another passing waiter and downed its contents in a single gulp. "Damn! Not an ounce of alcohol in this drink."
"Easy Timberlake. We have all night to get ourselves shitty drunk," interjected Nick with Kevin in tow. "We were thinking of leaving. You mentioned something about dinner, right? There's nothing here that we haven't seen before. Crack-Hoes and lifted faces, all."
"Hey! My best friend resembles half of that remark, Carter," said Mandy, mockingly.
"Let that bitch defend for himself, Mandy. He can't help it if he has a dependency problem, substantially or otherwise," said Kevin with as much sarcasm he could muster. JC noted that whoever this guy was, Kevin must really hate him. Come on, let's blow this joint and get some good old fashion Indian food." And so, with his four new friends, they continued on the night somewhere else.
* *
Over dishes the JC couldn't quite imagine he would be eating again unless he was truly desperate, he got to know Justin and Mandy a little more. Other than being ex's, roommates, and good friends, both of them were from Orlando and that they both moved here immediately after graduating from High school a few years ago. Being extremely intelligent, Mandy was a couple of years younger than Justin and skipped two years of high school. Other than modeling, both were taking a few classes at a local college, just in case. JC found out that Nick was doing the same thing but while Justin took Acting and Mandy settled with English Literature, Nick was taking up Art. Kevin, outside of modeling, owned a café in the village where the fashion world seems to congregate during the daytime. And in return for all of them telling him about their backgrounds, it was only fair that JC tell them about himself.
The night was getting closer to midnight but no one was ready to go home yet. A quick ride in a cab to TriBeCa ushered the group to 'Dorough's', one of the newer twenty-something-bars to sprout in and out of lower Manhattan. At first, JC thought the place was like some sort of Irish Pub, but it turns out that it was some dance club, which exhibits works by struggling artists. The owner was a short, Hispanic man bedecked in leather pants and a tight t-shirt with strange Kanji writings all over it. His name was Howie, and as much as Mandy pleaded, he wouldn't risk his license to challenge the alcohol laws.
"That just plain sucks," said Mandy like a petulant brat.
She sat down next to Kevin, while Nick and Justin went out to join the few people dancing to some heavy Techno music. As much as JC tried to listen in with the conversation, his eyes were way to focused on the way Justin was moving. When failed attempts to draw JC into the talk about a photo shoot gave way to amused looks, Kevin and Mandy started to speak to each other with hushed tones at JC's actions. As long as Justin continued to gyrate on the floor, JC kept his eyes glued to the young man and he would allow the temporary bliss take over. One moment later, the temperature of the room seem to surge up when Justin started to remove his dark gray shirt, revealing a taut chest under a tank, and JC unconsciously began unbuttoning his shirt.
Unceremoniously, Mandy and Kevin stood up and each grabbed one of his arms and brought him outside. Once the smoggy New York air cleared his head, JC saw that Mandy was laughing her head off while Kevin just smiled in bemusement.
"Man, you haven't known Justin for a day and now you're smitten," said Mandy between her giggling.
"Your not the first to set his sights on Justin, JC," said Kevin with a little sadness in his voice. "Before I met Nick, I was in your shoes. He's like a faraway star or something." Hearing Kevin say that about Justin made JC's heart sink. What could Justin possible see in him that he didn't already have and want? What could he offer the Golden God of a guy that Justin was? Kevin saw the disheartening face on JC and quickly made amends. "But he's not unreachable, Justin. Only the really determined ones manage to get Justin. Other than Mandy here, only three people have ever caught his heart, or at least his interest. He may not look like it but he has a special kind of unintentional ennui on him that attracts people, making him a challenge. In turn, it becomes a challenge for anyone to keep him interested. I'm not saying for you not to go after him, just take the time to get to know him a little before leaping into anytime. He's been known to whirl people around his finger. At least this way, you know what you are up against, or in some case, what you are after." JC smiled uncertainly, not sure of what to make with Kevin's statement. He needed to think things through.
"Guys, do you mind if I just head off? I got work in a few hours and I need some sleep." And to be alone. "Can you say bye for me to Justin and Nick?"
Mandy smiled sweetly. "Sure, honey. Go home and get some rest. Remember to take our advise and quit that no where job when the offers start coming in. You'll need a flexible schedule if are going to make it in this industry," she said.
"Sure, I won't forget." He hailed for a cab to stop. Just before he was about to close the door, Kevin stopped him.
"Hey, pass by my café tomorrow night at 7 P.M. It will be 'Rent' night and some of us are going to spend a full how many hours singing to the entire score. Do you sing?"
JC thought about it. Justin would definitely be there because Justin said that he hangs in Kevin's place during his free time. And he could sing. "Sure. I'll come by. Bye you two. Till tomorrow!" With a wave, the cab took him away.
* *
It was close to 2 A.M. when JC got home. It was 10 P.M. in California so his sister must still be awake. After listening to his manager giving his congratulations over the machine, he dialed a familiar number of his sister, Heather. He wanted to talk to somebody about tonight. After a few rings, Heather picked up the phone.
"Hello Heather," JC said excitedly. "Guess what! I met someone."
Part 4:
JC literally ran home after work, hating his boss for making him stay. Mandy's words from last night were starting to sound like a good idea since he hates his job as a courier. The only thing was that he was reluctant to give it up since his co-workers were okay people, and that it was his only source of exercise because he couldn't afford to go to a gym. He sighed a heavy breath as he came in his apartment. The first thing that he noticed was that someone was on the couch. It was his often-missing roommate, Alex, sleeping like a sprawled out cat. Sighing again, JC threw his backpack onto the unsuspecting roomie and made him wake up with a 'ummpf!"
"What was that for, Josh?" asked Alex. He sat up and rubbed one of his eyes like a kid. JC rolled his eyes and went to the fridge to get some milk before dressing up and going out again. While dragging his feet, Alex joined him at the kitchen table and asked about the past few days.
The catch-up was a thing between the two since they only see each other a few times in a week. This is one of those few. While JC worked and struggled to make a living, Alex goes to Film School with dreams of becoming the next Quentin Tarantino. Wild, crazy, and tattooed Alex, also known as AJ to some people, would often trade bantering comments with the anal-retentive and straight-laced JC. Another clear difference between the two is while JC has been financially independent since he turned 18, Alex, the only son of millionaire philanthropist and real estate baron, Bob McLean, has a huge trust fund to rely on. Why does AJ choose to live in this hovel of an apartment when he could live uptown in a posh pad is totally beyond the comprehension of JC.
"So, what's up with you tonight, Joshua, my friend?" Alex asked while munching on an apple of questionable age. He lifted his legs to show his red dragon print track pants, which he got from Chinatown last month, and leaned on the chair. JC suddenly remembered why he was running home in the first place and ran to his room, almost bowling over AJ off his chair. From his stunned position, JC slammed his door and began the tedious task of choosing an outfit of tonight under 15 minutes. Calmly, AJ entered his room and sat on the bed that was steadily being piled on with clothes, some good and some better left for the Salvation Army. By the time JC was wearing a pair of gray khakis, he was barefooted, bare-chested, and choosing between two shirts of merit. The save JC from the torture of decision, he picked out a black t-shirt from the pile. "Go with this. Nothing goes wrong with black." With a thankful smile, he graciously accepted the t-shirt and placed it on. "So, I repeat myself. What's up with you tonight, Joshua, my friend? Hot date?" With those last words, Alex had to give an amused grin. It was rare for JC to actually go on a date.
"No, I'm invited to join some friends of mine. One of them owns a café in SoHo and he said that it's going to be 'Rent' night." JC jumped on one foot while trying to slip on a sock.
"Rent Night?" Alex asked while perusing the clothes on the bed. He carefully noted to buy a new wardrobe for JC to replace the ones that he planned to burn for the sake of the public.
Checking himself in front of the bathroom mirror, JC sprayed some cologne on his pulse points and a little on his t-shirt. "It's like a monthly thing at the café when friends of Kevin and their friends (Kevin is the guy that invited me, by the way.) gather to listen and to sing to the entire score of the play. Afterwards, a big family style dinner is laid out to celebrate. It's been a monthly tradition at the place, at least that's what Kevin told me this morning when I called him about it. Say, why don't you join me? As much as I want to go and party with my new friends, I don't want to be alone just in case. Besides, I want your opinion on someone."
"Now, this is interesting. Who is it?" AJ wheedled. "You met someone, didn't you? Finally, someone who met up your unbelievably high standards."
JC began to blush with embarrassment. "No, I don't have unbelievably high standards." AJ snorted with disdain. JC rolled his eyes in response. "His name is Justin. Met him last night at the show. He's like a god to look at, I swear. The way he moved his hips when he dances was almost enough to make me cum." He steadily fell into a fantasy about blond curls and lollipops. While JC settled into his daydream, Alex went out to his room and changed quickly into a pair of brown leather pants and a white shirt. He matched it with a soft leather coat and orange shades, and came back to wake his roomie up to reality with a slap on the face.
"I'm dressed. Can I bring my camera? I got an assignment to make a short subject documentary for next week. If all of what you are saying is true, then this would make an excellent subject," Alex said while dragging JC out of their apartment to grab a cab. The bewildered look on JC's face was forever imprinted in AJ's mind for prosperity.
* *
Okay, café is a relative term to use when it came to mind about Kevin's establishment. During the day, that would have been true. The place serves specialized cakes and designer cups of caffeine. At night, however, it was a close euphemism for a bar famous for its alcoholic coffee concoctions. The interiors are reminiscent of a modern English pub mix with a Chill-out lounge, a wooden bar with stark contrast of a floor that lights up. Think of that old George Michael and Mary J. Blige video, only with more plush and gray. The walls were high and hung with black and white pictures of actors and actresses. The centerpiece of the collection is a diorama of British actors throughout the century. The usual clientele of the place were the regular people who work in the fashion industry, upcoming designers, models of all sorts, and the occasional fashion critic. This 'café' happens to be a favorite among the Hollywood set since two of the silent partners in Kevin's business are none other than Jude Law and Jonny Lee Miller. Hence, the bar/ café was named 'Pikul', in typical New York style, after the character of Jude in 'eXistenZ'.
"Pikul?" asked AJ when they got off the cab and saw the sign of the place. "We are going into Pikul? Shit! Do you realize how difficult is it to get a place to sit here at night? During the day its no problem but, shit dude, it's next to impossible sometimes during party hours. It's like trying to find a table for two at Nobu when P. Diddy is in town."
JC gave him a disbelieving glance and walked up to the man at the front of the door. He gave his name and was ushered in without any problem, with a gaping AJ on tow. The long line of people outside were giving them looks of envy and contempt that they both played coolly. Inside, there were already a rather moderate amount of people dressed in their best Alphabet City best of ratty outfits and baggy clothing. He and AJ looked positively out of place with their good-looking best. They managed their way to a table, which was claimed by Nick, who waved his arms in the air like an idiot to get JC's attention beforehand.
In Nick's court were Mandy and two other guys. One was Howie from last night. The other was someone that he hasn't met yet. Whoever he is, he certainly looks like a character. His flamboyant way of dress was only accentuated by the redness of his hair. Other than the finely trimmed beard, he had his shirt only buttoned halfway up, showing his hairy chest like bear. The first sentence from his mouth only reinforced his impression of him being the biggest queen that he has ever meet. JC looked around and saw that Justin wasn't here yet and that Kevin was playing host to a bunch of musicians who took over the one side of the bar. He could tell that he was getting frantic with his hand movement. With a frustrated scream, he left the company of the musicians and sat beside Nick for comfort.
"That's it! Tonight is going to be a disaster!" moaned Kevin in despair. Nick circled his lover's body and gave him a very reassuring hug. "The guy who was supposed to sing 'Roger' and my keyboardist both decided to take the plunge and get married in Vegas. Those two queens forgot about tonight so I'm left high and dry unless you know someone who could sing the whole musical and play keys." He then started babbling about what could happen next. Nick managed to cut him off a little later and told him to wander off and help in the kitchen.
Nick sighed as he brushed Kevin off to do something to get his mind off the predicament. "He can be such an pain in the ass sometimes." He sighed a cleansing breathe before turning JC and Alex. "Hey, JC! Who's your friend?" JC introduced Alex to the table and sat himself or herself down beside the unknown person. "Since you know most everyone here on this table, JC, it'll be my duty to present your friend to this crowd of weirdos." Nick tried to dodge the flying pieces that were sailing his direction when he made that statement. "Anyway, Alex, these are Mandy, the maven who knows too much for her own good, Howie, esteemed owner of the club establishment known as 'Dorough's," Nick made a grand sweep of his arms to the flamboyant person beside AJ, "Joey, diva fashion photographer for 'Vanity Fair' and 'Vogue'. And me, I'm just Nick." Everyone snorted condescendingly.
"Hey everybody," Alex greeted. "My roommate said there was a shindig somewhere in this city so he decided to tag me along. AJ McLean, film student extraordinaire." Everyone said their hello and the conversation continued.
"So, what's going to happen now with the two people missing?" asked JC before sipping on some garish drink that Mandy insisted that he try.
"Kevin's just going to panic until Justin goes through that door," said Mandy as she placed her margarita down. "He's the only one we know that went on a stint on 'Rent'. He was on the third ensemble as an understudy. He managed to understudy one night for Roger so Kevin will be jumping to the ceiling when Justin comes through that door. And here he comes."
Prophetic as her words, Justin came through the doors and Kevin literally ran towards him. Without going to his knees to beg, Kevin latched on to Justin's coat and pleaded like a man desperate for cash. It was hilarious to watch as Justin's action implied that he would do what Kevin asks unless he bashes him first. Just as Justin managed to disarm himself from Kevin's clutches, some skanky woman with pants so low that with a few more centimeters would prove whether or not she was actually a natural blonde accosted him with a kiss. The blood inside JC started to boil with jealousy as the girl tried to deepen the kiss. Fortunately, Justin pushed away the strange girl with disgust and walked away with Kevin.
"Okay, who was that strange woman?" asked JC with a strained voice. AJ noted this and smiled. This must be the mysterious Justin that his roomie must be talking about. The look on Mandy, Nick, Howie, and Joey were quite nasty.
"That was Britney (Everybody! Huwk! Spit!) Spears," gossiped Joey. "Wannabe supermodel who hustled her way into the industry by dating one of Ford Agency's top executives. Last week, she tried to get a front-page picture for Vogue for exposure but they had to go through me first before anything since I wanted to use Jessica for the spread. We had a bitch fight at the corner latte place over a damn cover, can you imagine? How crass is that bitch!"
"Don't mind Joey," said Howie, cradling the mixed drink of the day. "Almost everybody in this table has a reason to hate her. Two months ago, she tried to diva her way into my club with some guy she was cheating with on the side who wasn't on the list. Some dumb ass no-name soap star that has delusions of being the next De Niro. He wishes. Anyway, I didn't allow him to go in unless he was on the list. Britney had a fit and caused a scene. One thing good about the whole thing was that I got great reviews the next day." Without pretense, he downed his drink.
"We'll save you our stories of woe for the next round of mind-numbing melodrama," said Nick, for himself and Mandy. "With that bit of revolting history out of the way, let's focus on happier thoughts."
"I'll drink to that that," commented Mandy before sipping her daiquiri. "Say JC, didn't you mention last night that you have a music degree, right?" She smiled in such an insolent but charming manner. For some reason, JC didn't like the way she was going about that question.
"Yeah! I play piano."
"So you can use a keyboard?"
"Of course." This was definitely leading to a very stiff drink.
"Ohhh Kevin!" Mandy called over the din of the crowd. AJ laughed and the rest just stifled their own. It was going to be a long night.
* *
"So far, so good," thought JC as he waited for the break to finish. As much as he enjoyed music, its been years since he has played any 'RENT' song on a keyboard. When it came out on Broadway, he instantly became one of the many Rent heads out there that virtually worshipped the musical. It was to be exalted because Jonathan Larson, the man who made it posthumously at least, thought JC, was like a sign of hope. It was like a beacon of courage for people like JC who suffered and scrimped through the years because it was irrefutable and romantic proof that dreams do come true. It was strange and somewhat ironic that he was doing this on the brink of his immediate good fortunes.
When all the singers started to line up side by side, he knew he had to get ready for the next, more tiresome, part of the show. Not that it was hard, it was emotionally draining to the unprepared. He wasn't prepared tonight, in fact. Justin looking all beautiful despite the cagey clothes didn't help matters. He was pure distraction to JC. He looked positively sexy, especially when he got broody and angry in the beginning of the rock opera.
All the musicians waited until the first few notes of the familiar ballad that started the second act were being pushed by JC's manipulation. Then the melodic and astute words were harmonized by 15 players, at the center of which was Justin. The audience felt their hearts turn to mush once the lyrics of 'Seasons of Love' rang over the place.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred moments so dear
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes
How do you measure - measure a year?
In daylights - In sunsets
In midnights - In cups of coffee
In inches - In miles
In laughter - In strife
In - Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes
How do you measure a year in the life
How about love?
How about love?
How about love?
Measure in love
Seasons of love
Seasons of love
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes
Five hundred twenty-five thousand journeys to plan
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes
How do you measure the life of a woman or a man?
In truths that she learned
Or in times that he cried
In bridges he burned
Or the way that she died
It's time now - to sing out
Tho' the story never ends
Let's celebrate
Remember a year in the life of friends
Remember the love
Remember the love
Remember the love
Measure in love
Measure, measure your life in love
Seasons of love ...
Seasons of love
The song ended and JC felt as if the possibilities were possible. At that moment, JC made a decision that could maybe change his life. That, and he wanted to strangle Alex for trying to distract him while he did this.
* *
"That was fun," said Alex with amusement as he watched the playback of the night's proceedings on his camera.
It was, in fact. After a fair amount of groveling, Kevin managed to convince JC into playing the piano for the performance. Since it was an informal thing, no one expected a perfected show so JC muddled through okay. Ten minutes before the show, Kevin treated to probably half of the people outside to a free show and if they were patient, the dinner afterwards. Most of them stayed for that. Let's face it, New Yorkers love free good food. Speaking of good, the show was amazing considering that the players just sat on stools and sang. Joey's performance as Mark left JC speechless especially since his first impression was how campy Joey was, and the character was not. Despite some initial reactions, Britney proved to be the perfect Maureen. Mandy made a good Joanne, despite her hate for Britney, and Howie was decent as Benny. But seeing Justin as Roger made his heart skip a beat. He still looked golden despite the gangly clothes. He had to look the part since the character was fairly tragic and depressing if you psychoanalyze it to death.
During the show, AJ taped the whole thing, rating it worth the trip. For the fortunate few who got a few show enjoyed the experience. They didn't object to the free simple menu being offered rather than the pricey cuisine that they expected tonight. The late dinner proved to be a grand affair with a long table with loads of food set for everyone. Nothing fancy but the food nonetheless gave all present a satisfaction worth telling. In fact, the triple layer chocolate cake offered was Kevin's secret recipe that mother's everywhere would kill for. It felt good knowing that good people were sharing your food.
No one really wanted to linger after the meal since most had jobs and things to do the next day. Only the group of JC decided to stay and help clean up the place. Howie left a long time ago with both Mandy and Britney, bitching the good bitch fight. Joey was next to depart, giving JC a cryptic smile and kiss on the cheek that made him blush, much to AJ's amusement. Before he and AJ could leave, however, AJ decided to make a quick trip to the John for a leak, leaving JC to wait on the curb with Justin.
"You did good, tonight," complimented Justin, his curls hidden under a hat.
"Thanks." JC blushed yet again. "Kevin was lucky that I already knew most of the songs by heart since that's what I played on my study sessions when I was in school. It's been years though since I actually played them on piano. It feels good to play those songs again."
Justin gave him an angelic smile that could light up the city. "Any special reason why?"
"Heck, the play is relatable. I've been a New Yorker for 8 years now, and for half of that time, I've lived like that. After college, I've stayed in places that weren't even fit for squatters, hoping just to get by in this city. It's only by pure tenacity that I've survived this long."
"But now, you're living the high life. Think of it as a reward for all your years of toil and making sandwiches. Mandy, Nick, and I were lucky to get our break pretty quick. And I would have given up fast if it wasn't for Kevin and Howie kicking me in the ass every now and then. Joey gave me the three of us our start. Kevin is still mad at him though for introducing us to the drugs. It was a good thing that we never got into that shit." Justin took one look at him and predicted his thoughts. "Don't worry! Joey's clean now. He went to rehab last year."
"That's good. I just know too many people who O.D.'ed that it’s not funny anymore," JC said solemnly. The following silence gave them an awkward moment, then at the same time both of them said, "Would you like to go out on a date?"
Shock filled their faces, then happiness. Both replied, "yes," at the same time. Justin, deciding to give in to his heart, leaned in and gave JC a chaste kiss. When they parted, Justin saw that JC had his eyes closed and he could see the little gap between his teeth. He thought in was cute. As he opened his eyes, JC lifted his fingers to his mouth, touching them like a new tattoo. With that, Justin smiled and turned around to walk away, looking back over and over to see the dazed expression on JC's face. "I'll call you," he shouted back at the stock still musician.
"TAXI!" came a shout that woke up JC from his daydream. Next thing JC knew, Alex was dragging him into a cab. "So, how was his kiss?" he asked impishly.
JC stared for a moment at a sticker to the cab divider that said, 'Light My Candle,' and tried to form an answer. "Amazing," he said with blissful palpitation.
Part 5:
A week has past since that night when the promise of a date was made, and Justin has yet to call. By that time, James Bass called JC over to discuss new matters of importance.
"So, what's up, James?" asked JC as he went straight to the point and leveled with his agent.
James leaned over and pushed a folder to JC. He opened it and saw a contract. Reading it over, his eyes bulged with disbelief as he read the conditions. Three years with a salary of a five-digit sum, with benefits. Honestly, it was the dental plan that sold him to it. Just to be safe, he checked for any fine prints that could screw him in the future. He found none and promptly signed it with James' pen. If there was one advantage of having a lawyer for a dad, JC thought, was that he taught all of his kids to read everything with common sense and a sense to check if you're being screwed.
"Okay, now that you're officially part of the family, I'm sending you on your first photo shoot a few days from now," said James with a pleased tone. "Vanity Fair is doing a segment featuring on the new Fall fashion predictions and they're in need of a few male models for it. The higher-ups told me to pick the guy and send him on a plane to Paris for a few days. So, get packed, Kimosabe. You're bound for France."
JC was still speechless when he left the office with a round trip ticket in his bag.
"This is going to be the shit," thought JC as he unlocked his bike from the post it was chained to and rode off to see if he could get his passport renewed in time.
* *
For the next two days, no phone call came from Justin yet. JC told himself that he was busy, doing things that only Justin Timberlake would if he were busy. To calm his nerves, JC started to clean the apartment, do his laundry, as well as AJ's, and try to pack everything into one travel bag for the Shoot. He was folding the clothes when AJ came in and sat down beside him on the couch.
"Hey, I've been looking for these. Thanks for having them washed, dude," said AJ as he lifted a pair of boxers with Daffy Duck running across them. Then, he noticed the amount of laundry on the table, taking note of the ones that needed to disappear quickly to some incinerator. "Why are there so much clothes here? Are you expecting companying?"
"I washed my stuff because I'm leaving for a while and I'm in dire need of some stuff to wear. I brought along your junk because it was cluttering up the place and I'm also in a spring cleaning mood," explained JC as he carefully folded a pair of jeans that he bought from Patricia Fields, and segregated it to a pile for his trip.
"Where you headed?" AJ asked as he started to pile his stuff into the basket that JC used to haul everything to the corner Soakin' Suds laundromat.
"To Paris." AJ dropped his red flannel shirt and grabbed JC by the shirt. He eyes gleaming with intensity.
"As in 'There's a place in France where the people don't wear pants' Paris, or Paris, Illinois?"
"Uhhh, Paris, France. The agency is sending me there for a two-day shoot. Remember Mandy and Joey. Well, Mandy is going to be one of the models, and Joey is going to be the photographer."
AJ's mouth grinned wide and he let go of JC. "When are you leaving? And more importantly, can I go with you?"
JC stared at his roommate like he grew a third head. "Why?"
Alex shrugged. "Haven't been to Paris in years. Besides, there is a chick there that I met in Washington Square Park last year that made me promise to visit her after we tumbled some in the hay. Said that if ever I'm there, we can hook up."
Thinking back to last year, JC tried to remember the woman AJ was talking about. It wasn't easy considering that AJ was a notorious cruiser and always ended up with someone. He shuddered when he thought of some of the desperate skanks that he brought over sometimes. JC gave up and continued with his folding. "I don't know this one," he admitted. "I know most of your conquests. I don't remember anyone French."
AJ smirked, walked into his room to bring out his suitcase, and talked out loud back. "No surprise there. I brought her over during that time you took a week vacation to visit your folks. She was the best, dude. She had a wicked tongue and hair set like Bo Derek. Gotta love a licker" AJ then got this look of bliss, delving in his nostalgia like a natural high druggie. JC had to throw the Daffy Duck underwear at him to get his to listen.
"Okay, I'll call the agency in the morning and ask if you can come along. If I get permission to drag your skinny way across the Atlantic, you pay for your ticket. The accommodations are probably good for the both of us so no problem there. Your passport good?" AJ nodded. "Then all you have to do is help me pick out some stuff to wear there."
* *
Two more days and Justin hadn't called yet. JC literally perched himself beside the phone all that time. "You're pathetic, you know that," commented Alex offhandedly while trying to pack in enough stuff into one suitcase. That's all he did until AJ had to drag him out to their apartment to catch the plane. Miserably, JC lumbered to first class with a grim AJ behind. Once they were seated, AJ spotted Mandy on the other side of first class and excused himself across a row of people to get to her.
"I have a bone to pick with you, young lady." Mandy noticed him and laughed at AJ's last two words. No one has called her 'young lady' in years since she outgrew most everyone. "That roomie of yours broke my roomie's heart. Tell him when I see him the next time; I will kick his ass all the way to the middle of Harlem.
Mandy's face frowned. "Which roomie? Justin or Nick?" AJ gave Justin's name, but before he could get anywhere the flight attendant tapped his shoulder.
"Sir," said a blond haired and sweet voiced male flight attendant. "Please go to your seat. The plane will taxi in a few minutes. You can talk afterwards when we have taken off."
AJ took a moment to check out the fine specimen before him and smiled widely. "Sure. I'll talk to you later Mandy." Seemingly satisfied, the attendant turned and walked away, giving AJ a nice view of his ass. "Ten bucks say I'll have him as a booty call tonight."
Mandy chuckled. "Your on. Now go back to your seat and tell me about it later. Justin probably did something stupid again without even knowing it. Is JC with you?" AJ nodded and bounded back to his seat. As he walked back, he was trying to strategize his way to get one of Northwest's finest.
* *
"How does he do it? Not only did he snag the steward, but the co-pilot as well," Mandy asked JC, perplexed. Both of them were by the luggage carousel, waiting for their baggage and for Alex who was being teasingly accosted by Ashley the flight attendant with the eyes of blue, and Trevor the pilot with the muscles underneath that uniform. All three of them agreed to meet later at Trevor and Ashley's hotel.
"Like they say in 'Shakespeare in Love', it's a mystery,' said JC with a roll of his eyes and a resigned breath. He turned to Mandy and asked the question that was in his head for most of the flight after AJ told the head's up. "So Justin's not in New York? Then where is he then?"
The tall, brunette female model smiled gently. "He's back in Orlando. Remember he arrived only in time for the Gucci Show, right? Well, he came from Florida that time. Apparently, his Mom is trying to contest his portion in his dead Grandfather's will. Ever since he came out to family, his mom hasn't been the most tolerant and loving person on earth. She's doing this just to spite him. Justin's been gone since last week. About two days after 'Rent' night. He's been stressed since the lawyers called that day. The bitch has been spreading lies to the rest of the family about his 'hedonistic and self-abusive' lifestyle in the big city. What a pile of shit. Not that Justin needs the money and all, but he needs it to set up a fund for his brothers when they get to college in a decade or so."
"Why would he need to do that? Can't his parents do that for him?"
Mandy shook her head. Their luggage came and were quickly scooped up. Both models walked out to customs with AJ and company followed. Mandy answered his question as they lined up. "His parents are divorced. His Dad is good but he and his wife aren't quite as prosperous as his Mom. Justin offered to help out but his Dad said no. However, he did agree that if Justin gets his share from the inheritance, they would set up a trust fund for his brothers Jon and Stevie. At least this way, Justin's Dad won't feel like he was taking advantage of his son. He would rather have his sons have a safe future first before anything else."
JC didn't bother with taking this issue any farther. Now, all he wanted was a bath and a nap. Maybe he could let this one slide. Maybe.
* *
When JC left for his first meeting with Joey and the other models at the local office of Vanity Fair, AJ hadn't come back from his little tryst with Ashley and Trevor, so he wrote him a note saying that if he wanted to meet up for lunch, he had to meet him at the Jardin du Luxembourg for the shoot.
Since it was his first time in the City of Lights, his artistic side reveled in ecstasy, like a pilgrim reaching Mecca. His eyes lit up with glee as the atmosphere of the city filled his senses. Surprisingly, he found the people cordial despite his less than fluent French. They must have sensed the French blood in him, or something. It took a little while to get to the office since he constantly stopped and admired the buildings, landmarks, or whatever that took his fancy.
Aside from Joey the flamboyant photographer, there were four other models than him and Mandy. There was a Columbian import named Shakira, the latest and best discovery since Giselle Bundchen. Her long, wavy dark hair was bleached into a blonde that showed her roots, but surprisingly it looked good on her. Her English was still a little flawed but her French was fantastic, almost like she lived here in France all her life. Then there was a newcomer to the scene named Jennifer Hewitt, who said that she rebelled against her Hippie parents and took up modeling as a job. While getting to know her, she said that she would kill anyone who used her middle name. JC didn't bother asking what it was. Next, to Joey and Mandy's dismay, was Britney (Everybody! Huwk! Spit!) Spears. After hearing one sentence from her, JC considered her the biggest BITCH on the Northern Hemisphere. Lastly, there was a male model named Enrique who loved to sprawl all over the furniture like a cat. Joey spoke to JC's ear that rumor has it that his father was an old time crooner who used to make women wet themselves when he sings. Of course, JC didn't believe it and went on trying the clothes to be worn on the shoot. He didn't notice that when he wasn't looking, Enrique would watch him intently.
JC never knew that a photo shoot would be so long and tedious. Joey, in all his orange glory of a floral shirt from John Galliano and a matching pair of custom made Burberry plaid pants, directed him and Shakira in some poses while he clicked away on his camera. The stylists had him wear a pure black Helmut Lang wool suit that fitted like it was made for him with a white tie to contrast. Joey had him unbutton the pure cotton black shirt and let the tie just flay over his taut chest. Shakira had on a Prada black sleeveless dress with gold filigree around the neck and breasts, making her look more golden. The slit of the dress was cut to high and as so were her gold slut shoes with heels that looked like it could kill someone.
Both of them were posed on the fountain's rim. Joey had Shakira lying down and JC on top of her like a prelude to having sex. Feeling uncomfortable with the whole thing, JC fidgeted and tried to get some sense of comfort and decency to it. Obviously, it didn't work.
"Feel in, JC! Feel like she's your whore, and that she likes it!" JC didn't know how to answer to that because he never even paid a guy to give him a blowjob before. "Shaki darling. Help him please. He needs to loosen up." She gave JC a piteous look and whispered something in his ear. A blush rose and suddenly his demeanor changed. JC closed his eyes and attacked Shakira's mouth with fervor. She smiled and let her hands wander to his back, feeling his skin.
AJ just arrived in time to see JC ravage Shakira in what looked like an illicit act of lewd conduct in public. His jaw dropped and groin went hard. He couldn't believe that a prude like JC would be doing something this close to what looked like sex with clothes on out in the open. JC was caressing and bunching her skirt in an obscene manner while he kissed her like no tomorrow. She would lick him like an ice cream cone as she explored his exposed torso. If AJ didn't know better, this looked like the making of a porn video. That went on for what seemed to be an indefinite period until Joey shouted, "Enough! That was great! Okay, now to the next location here. Bring out Britney, Jennifer, and Mandy. The rest of you guys, go to lunch!"
Shakira disengaged her hips from JC's leg and leaned down to give him a chaste kiss on the cheek. JC was all disheveled and sexy-looking when AJ approached him. "Dude! That was hot! What happened to you? I would never have thought that you would be doing stuff like that ever." Suddenly, he leered at him with a wolfish smile. "You know, my offer still stands."
JC scoffed at him. "You know I would kill you first before I would agree to sleeping with you. Besides, Shakira gave me a good incentive to do this." They walked out to the truck where he would change back into his normal clothes since Joey ordered him to go eat. "And even if you think that you could try to get her to bed, forget it. She's a dyke. Besides, she said that she was dating Sandra Bernhardt."
AJ snapped his fingers in disappointment.
JC chose to ignore that. He went behind the truck's changing screen and stripped off the expensive suit. "Anyway, how was your one night stand with Ashley and Trevor? What happened exactly? It's rare for you to choose a guy for an evening romp, more unlikely with two of them. And isn't the point of you tagging along with me is your rendezvous with that Christina chick?" JC came out dressed in a gray sweater that profiled his slender frame and a pair of Gap khakis with worn-out sneakers. Despite his ordinary appearance, his time as a model made him look positively radiant. He even outshone the quirks that AJ was used to when dressed. They left the truck and landed on the sidewalk.
AJ shrugged as they left for a nearby café. "I'm meeting her tonight. We're having an early dinner and then off to sample the Parisian nightlife. Later on, I plan to bed her with cheap words and loose sex. And my evening with the steward and the pilot was wonderful, by the way. Even got myself a couple of souvenirs." He reached into his jacket and pulled a couple of pieces of underwear. One was a jockey shorts and the other was a thong. JC didn't even bother with asking on which belonged to whom when AJ tried to fling them at his face.
They took an outside table so they could savor the midday air. Women, young and old, were bustling about with their packages and the occasional Baget among their purchases. Every once in a while, a pair of lovers would pass by giving JC a wistful expression that sicken AJ. Businessmen in tailored suits would come in the café and order a quick lunch and, from what JC could gleam from their conversations, talk about politics, plans for the upcoming weekend, and the rising price of truffles. While waiting for their meal and drinking their reds, a meek-looking Enrique came to their table.
"May I join you?" he asked in an unaccented English that you get from living in many countries in the course of your life. JC, wanting to get to know more about this dark and beautiful man, gestured for him to pull a chair. He made the introductions and all of them settled into a steady conversation.
"Is it true that your Dad was an old time singer?" asked JC, his curiosity getting the better of him. AJ just kept quiet most of the time, choosing only to say something when asked of something.
Enrique tilted his head like a lazy cat and smiled. "My Father was a famous singer in his day. His audience, however embarrassing it may be, still act like teenagers when they see him. Growing up, I was growing tired of being connected to my Dad. So, when I became a model, I dropped my last name so I wouldn't have to suffer any problems."
"Who's your Dad anyway?" asked AJ who was sinking his teeth into a Quiche Lorraine.
Enrique tore his face from looking at Enrique and momentarily took notice of AJ. "Julio Iglesias."
The reaction to the revelation proved a shock to both New Yorkers.
"Shit! My Mom used to swoon to his voice and buy all of his albums. We used to listen to him on a record player in the den after dinner," said AJ who felt a little star struck.
JC just left his mouth slightly opened with disbelief.
After both them got over the initial reaction, they all started to loosen up to Enrique like an old friend. The noontime meal that the café served was delicious. The table wine shared between the three was exquisite despite its cheapness. By the end of the meal, three hours have passed and an intern found them so they could go back to the Gardens. AJ bade them goodbye so he could prepare for his date with the mysterious Christina. Walking back, Enrique suddenly felt nervous, no quite sure of how JC will react to his request. Both of them reached truck before Enrique got the will to ask JC something.
"JC, what will you be doing the day after tomorrow?" he asked with a timid tone.
JC thought for a moment. Both he and AJ decided to take advantage of being in France and asked James the agent if they could extend their stay by three days. James agreed on the condition that JC would set aside an afternoon to have some portfolio shots done for a local agency. He explained that they are always looking for models when Fashion Week comes round. Doing this would only strengthen his exposure in both sides of the Atlantic. JC agreed, thinking of it as a small price to pay for a few more days in Europe.
"Nothing planned really. I was thinking that I'd be touring the city with AJ and Mandy. Maybe even get a few hours of shopping done. Why? What's up?" JC's eyebrows rose at what Enrique come be planning.
Enrique went behind the screen and started changing into the clothes for the next shot. "My uncle owns a small farm down south in Provence. I was thinking of visiting him there for a while and then maybe spend an evening in Nice, maybe even in Monaco. We'll spend the night in one of the local inns and then be back by lunchtime. What do you say? Will you go with me?"
Not really sure of what to say, JC thought about it as fast as he could while under mild duress. He always wanted to go to the south of France for two reasons. One, mainly because his family history traced back to that area, and two, because of reading and loving all of the books that Peter Mayle has ever published about the region. If he accepted, what about Alex? He quickly squashed that thought considering AJ's luck. And then there was Justin. Well, nothing has happened yet so there was no reason to say no.
"Yes, I would like too," he answered much to the joy of Enrique.
* *
"What about Justin? You seem to be forgetting about him pretty quick," asked Alex a few hours later when JC arrived at their double room in the heart of the city. He still wasn't dressed for his date but his choices of clothing were laid out on both beds. JC had to push aside the amount of clothing on his bed to lie down.
"Yeah, I know. But it's not like he said when he'll call and I don't want to look pathetic anymore. I'm sort of attracted to Enrique so if this is an opportunity to see what he's got, then good. Besides, he tempted me with a day in the country and an evening in the French Riviera. I don't know about you, but I'm not that stupid to say no to an offer like that."
AJ said nothing but checked himself out on the mirror of their tiny room. For some reason, other than the big named hotels in the city, there seemed to be a lack of space when visiting Paris. "Okay, I'm off to see Chrissy. What about you? Any plans for tonight?"
JC smiled. "Remember what I said about the incentive that Shakira gave me earlier." AJ nodded. "Well, in an hour we'll be leaving to see Mary J. Blige live at one of the local Hip-Hop clubs and then we are going to tour the gay nightlife in the city."
If he didn't find AJ's reaction funny, he could have sworn that he was shocked. "You're going cruising? Wow! How brave you are. Hope you have some outfit that will knock them Frenchie twinks off their feet?"
AJ ran for the door when a pillow projectile came hurtling his way. "Just remember that we have an early lunch at the Louvre tomorrow!" JC shouted through the door. AJ shook his head and sauntered off to his date with 'Bo Derek'.
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