AUTHOR'S POV 

Larry's eyes gracefully flutter open before catching the bright sunlight through the window. The warmth of that sun upon his face is relaxing and could send him back to dreamland...only the first thing on his mind is last night and the powerful telepathy moment between him and Laurent. The way Laurent whispered his name was music to his ears and the feeling that came over him just can't be described in words. He then thinks about seeing him at their meeting and the moment he looked up at Laurent walking through the door which was nothing short of picture perfect. The backdrop of the sun against his silhouette was quite possibly the most beautiful sight he's ever seen. When Laurent so beautifully and so eloquently repeated the things Larry does when he knows he needs to talk including the way he bites his bottom lip in nervousness only reminded him of Laurent knowing him so well. That's also a feeling that can't be described. But, when his focus comes to and he looks around the room he's reminded of everything. As much as he cares for Anthony he will never know him as deeply and as intimately as Laurent does and for the first time in almost two months he's realizing that. With that thought he takes a deep breath in to prevent his emotions from spilling out all over again. Besides that, he also smells the aroma of breakfast in the air and he doesn't want Anthony suspecting any emotion when he goes to join him. On the way to freshen up he decides that since nothing is on schedule for him today he'll call Dani and ask if she wants to have lunch. It's such a nice day and there's an outside eating area at one of their top restaurants where they can enjoy their lunch and conversation though there has been a noticeable difference in their friendship lately. Larry knowing her as well as he does knows it's because she isn't exactly comfortable with he and Anthony's relationship. It went from an affair to them living together all in the blink of an eye and naturally it's taken her by surprise. She was hoping he and Laurent would work it out so needless to say it's been a hard pill to swallow. It's never been a secret that she adored he and Laurent's relationship and just as Shawn told Laurent, it always inspired their marriage so the divorce hurts her all the same. But, she's his best friend so she will always be there for him no matter what. Being that Anthony was up first Larry is sure it's because he has to go to work so he'll call Dani after he leaves. For now he freshens up then joins him in the kitchen...

 *****

Larry: "Good morning". 

Anthony: "Good morning". 

Larry is walking towards the cupboard to retrieve a glass when he stops abruptly and looks at Anthony due the tone of his voice when he greeted him. Normally it's an upbeat tone but this morning it's completely flat and as such Larry's face twists in confusion as he looks at him... 

Larry: "Are you oki"?

Anthony: "I'm good". 

Larry isn't convinced so he stares at him for another moment before turning around to retrieve the glass. As he walks over to the fridge he gives Anthony another puzzling look and he can't help but notice that he hasn't once looked up from his plate to meet Larry's eyes. This person is vastly different from the Anthony he's been waking up to and he doesn't understand it. By now Anthony would have given him a sweet good morning kiss to the cheek or a warm hug and he hasn't given him either. With no direct eye contact combined with this lack of affection it's even more confusing as Larry is unsure of the reason why. He just puts his focus on pouring the juice then places the pitcher back in the fridge. After taking a few sips he retrieves a plate to begin piling food on it then comes over to join him...

Larry: "Thank you for making breakfast". 

Anthony: "You're welcome". 

Larry: "Are you sure you're oki"?

Anthony: "I'm fine. Why wouldn't I be"?

Larry: "Because you're quiet and now you're snapping at me". 

Anthony: "I wasn't snapping at you. It was just a question". 

*brief pause*

Larry: *sigh* "Fine. You say you're fine so let's just drop it". 

Silence ensues with the exception of the silverware making light clinking sounds against the plates as they eat. Larry said they would drop it but Anthony's annoyance has completely come out of left field. Sure Larry turned down sex last night but Anthony didn't appear to be upset about that. Perhaps he isn't feeling well or just doesn't feel up to going to work today. Still, neither of those would explain why he's being so cold to him now. Ultimately Larry just brushes it off and since Anthony is dressed for work then his training sessions will be just what he needs to release some tension so he can come home in a better mood. Anthony eventually finishes his meal then stands up to take the dishes to the sink before momentarily disappearing into the bedroom. Larry is about to take a bite of his eggs when he sees him come out and his eyes go straight to him as he notices his facial expression is reading that of anger and a seemingly tight grip on the duffel bag in his hands. With that same flat tone...

Anthony: "I'm leaving for the gym now and I'll be gone for a while". 

Larry: "Oki. Be safe and I see you later". 

Larry is sure Anthony will come over and at least give him a goodbye for now kiss...but he's completely surprised to see him merely nod as he grabs his keys then leave the house which leaves Larry stunned. The house is completely silent now as Larry looks in the direction of the front door. He whispers into the atmosphere, "what is wrong with him"? Everyone has their bad days for sure but Larry is certain it's more than that. He begins thinking that this is just another layer of Anthony that's never been seen before. Just as him demanding that Larry quit the club. It makes him wonder if there are other parts of Anthony he hasn't seen...but eventually will. Just the thought of things getting worse than that night causes him to lose his appetite so he just chugs the last of his orange juice then discards the remaining breakfast. He heads for the bedroom and right there on the nightstand lies his phone so he swipes it off to give Dani a call. As the phone rings he tries his best to regroup from the frightening thought in his mind. When she answers he can hear the smile in her voice so it relaxes him...

Dani: *smile* "Hey you". 

Larry: *smile* "Hey. What are you doing"?

Dani: "Just having a cup of tea and relaxing. What's up"?

Larry: "Are you free to have lunch"?

Dani: "Of course. Our favorite bistro at noon"?

Larry: "That's perfect. I was just thinking we should go there so I will see you then".

With a happy confirmation from his best friend Larry releases the call then heads back for the kitchen to wash the dishes from breakfast which is something Anthony would do even if he did cook but this morning he just left it all. Larry doesn't mind cleaning up of course. It's the fact that things are suddenly so different with Larry not having any idea of where it all came from. Though still a few hours away lunch with Dani will be just what he needs to take his mind off of it... 

*****

Larry enjoyed a peaceful ride over to the bistro with the exact thing to order in mind and ready to enjoy. Now parked and out of his car he begins walking to the side of the restaurant where the tables are setup outside and already he sees Dani sitting while reviewing the menu so he smiles. He approaches the table then gently touches her shoulder as to not alarm her and she turns her head up and they smile at each other while she stands up to greet him by way of a kiss on the cheek of which he does the same...

Dani: *smile* "Hey there". 

Larry: *smile* "Hey. You look nice". 

Dani: "Thank you. So do you". 

Larry: "Thank you". 

Larry takes his seat and not longer after their designated server comes over to hand him a menu, take his drink order then takes off to make it...

Larry: "Have you been waiting long"?

Dani: "Not long at all. Maybe about five minutes. The server came right over". 

Larry: "Yeah he seems like a good one". 

Since Larry already knows what he wants he doesn't have to look at the menu too much and he can't help but notice the glow on Dani's face...

Larry: *smile* "Why are you so happy"?

Dani: *smile* "On the way here I got a call. I didn't tell you this but I auditioned for the lead dancer in Westside Story a few days ago and I got it". 

Larry's face lights up and he couldn't be happier for his friend... 

Larry: *smile* "That's amazing Dani. I'm so happy for you". 

Dani: *smile* "Thank you. I'm very excited". 

Larry: "I'm excited for you. When is it"? 

Dani: "In a month so until then I'll be in the dance studio a lot preparing for it in between rehearsals". 

Larry: "You tell Shawn yet"? 

Dani: "I called him but I was so excited that I forgot he's playing basketball with Laurent so he didn't answer". 

*brief pause*

Larry: "Oh".  

Dani instantly takes notice of the solemn tone in Larry's voice suddenly and it doesn't take long to realize it's because she mentioned Laurent. She really isn't sure what to say as she didn't expect such a reaction. She thought Larry was happy with Anthony so to see this abrupt sadness in him saddens her. She isn't sure if she should ask about it as it might make things worse so she attempts to change the subject...

Dani: "I think I'll have the club sandwich and their soup of the day. What are you having"?

Larry: "Um, the hero burger". 

Dani: *chuckles* "Is that all"?

Dani thought that by joking about his ability to eat a tons of food in one sitting because of his love of food would prompt a laugh from him...but when his head and eyes solemnly lower she realizes just how much mentioning Laurent affected him. Her smile slowly fades and she won't dare attempt to change the subject again seeing him in such a state and she will say something that will bring Larry's eyes to hers. In a serious yet very soothing voice, "it's ok to miss him". Larry's head slowly raises and he looks her directly in her eyes. He doesn't even respond. Only glances at her and a second later she sweetly follows that up with, "it really is ok". At that moment their bubbly server comes over to ask if they're ready to place their orders and Larry finally finds words...albeit different from what she expected... 

Larry: "Let's just order lunch and talk for something else, oki"?

Dani: *nods* "Ok", she replies softly. 

Larry nods then like the gentlemen he is he motions his hand so Dani can give her order first. After he gives his the server takes the menus and Larry wastes no time changing the subject which is going back to her lead role in this awesome dance production. This is her moment and nothing makes him happier than to see the joy in her face as she discusses everything she plans to do in preparation for this monumental moment in her career. She's a beyond beautiful dancer and Larry already can't wait to be among the crowd watching her do her thing on that stage...

~meanwhile~

On the spacious basketball court Laurent and Shawn have teamed up with a few people who also frequent this spot regularly for a rousing game of the popular sport. It's been hard sweating as they've engaged in this friendly battle. Each of them have taken care to pass the ball to one another as true teammates then running down either ends of the court to score shots. The ball is currently in Laurent's hand as he dribbles while also being cognizant of the defensive player in front of him. He plays the shoot the ball trick to throw the player off, spins around then runs a few steps before taking a chance and shooting the ball from the three point line. Shawn is heard belting out, "it's a three" while all eyes are on the ball as they wait to see the outcome. Seconds later the ball swishes around the rim then plunges into the net solidifying their win. Shawn and Laurent are all smiles as they give each of their opponents the famous hand clasp and bro hug saying things such as "good game" in between. Afterward, they gather they things then begin leaving the gym while Shawn and Laurent go over to their bags to retrieve the small towels and bottled waters they brought along. After a few dabs to their faces to wipe the glistening sweat away and a few sips of water their breathing is coming back to normal...

Shawn: "That last shot was awesome bro". 

Laurent: "Thanks man. It was a good game". 

Shawn: "It was and a good workout".

Laurent nods then takes another sip of water as Shawn pulls out his phone. He notices he missed a call from Dani and immediately calls her back to make sure nothing is wrong...

Shawn: "You ok baby"?

Dani: "I'm fine sweetie. I called because I have some great news". 

Shawn: *smile* "Is this news what I think it is"?

Dani: *giggle* "Yeah. I got the lead role my love". 

Shawn: *smile* "I knew it and I'm so proud of you baby". 

Dani: *smile* "Thank you sweetie. I'm having lunch with Larry now so we'll talk more about it at home".   

Shawn: *smile* "Ok. I love you". 

Dani: *smile* "I love you more". 

Shawn releases the call as his smile is still plastered on his face. Laurent heard him telling Dani that he's proud of her and he's been smiling ever since as he knows something awesome has happened...

Laurent: *smile* "I guess I don't need to ask if she's oki". 

Shawn: *smile* "She just got a lead dance role". 

Laurent: "Wow that's awesome bro. Please tell her congratulations for me". 

Shawn: "Thanks man. I will".   

Laurent: "I know you're going to take her out to celebrate".

Shawn: "Yeah but I have to think of something big. I am so proud of her". 

Laurent: "Well I don't think you will need my help for that but if there's anything I can do please let me know. I'll be happy to help". 

Shawn: *smile* "I appreciate that".

Laurent: *smile* "Welcome". *pause* "You should get home to her". 

Shawn: "She's out with Larry right now so we'll see each other later. It will give me time to think of what to do for her". 

Earlier Larry became very soft spoken when he heard Dani mention Laurent. Now that Laurent has heard Larry he's getting the same feeling on the inside and also becomes soft spoken as he replies, "oh". The exact reaction as Larry. Shawn hears it and stares at him with a look of concern as he knows exactly why his demeanor has changed. Then something comes to him...

Shawn: "So have you been back to see Dr. Cote"?

Laurent: *shakes head* "No. I haven't been back to see her since my first session. I left early when she really wanted me to stay so I'm too embarrassed to go back". 

Shawn: "You don't have to worry about that bro. She's amazing and she'll want you to come back if you still need her". 

Laurent: "She is amazing but I don't know. Maybe".  

Shawn: "Ok. Well do you want to go somewhere to eat"?

Laurent: "That's oki. I'll eat when I get home. You should get home and wait for Dani". 

Shawn watches Laurent pick up his duffel bag then place the strap on his shoulder before turning towards him and extending his fist. Shawn looks down at it momentarily then extends his as they touch for a pound...

Laurent: "I'll see you soon". 

Shawn: "Ok. Be safe". 

Laurent: "You too". 

Laurent turns around and begins walking towards the exit. His head is down and it's a tough sight to see. Shawn knows how badly Laurent misses Larry and it's hard being unable to do something for him. He's the only one in the gym now so he blows out a sigh that echos all around as he gathers his things then heads for the parking lot to go home...

~evening~

Larry hasn't seen or heard from Anthony since this morning which is not like him at all. He didn't expect him to be home when he came back from lunch but he was sure he wouldn't be too much longer. 3 pm came and still nothing but he just figured he had a lot of training sessions lined up for the day. It wasn't until Larry was almost finished cooking dinner which was near 7 pm and Anthony still wasn't home that he started placing calls to him...but each call went unanswered. He sent a few texts but he didn't receive a response to any of those either. Instead of preparing dinner plates he put the entree in the oven to keep warm because surely Anthony wouldn't stay out too late but he ultimately wrapped the food up to store in the fridge as he didn't want the meat to dry out. Now, the hour is nearing 9 pm. Larry is on the couch and with each passing second he becomes angrier. He then picks up his phone to text...

"Where are you?? I called you, I sent you a text and you don't reply. Are you coming home soon"? 

Larry waits a minute or so and when he still doesn't get a response he stands up, shuts the TV off then heads for the bedroom. He's so frustrated that he just gets in bed and pulls the cover over him. He imagines Anthony will be home eventually...but at this point he doesn't want to see him...

*****

So many people are clubbing as if it's their last night on Earth. Tomorrow morning they will pay by way of the hangovers that this fun time out is sure to bring them but for now the alcohol flows like an IV drip. The music moves many of them like puppets on strings and their heads are banging to the music so hard that their brains are in shut down mode. There's a reserved space in the back of the club. One might call it a VIP section and on the couch sits Anthony grasping a tall neck bottle beer...every minute or so bringing it to his lips to take a long sip of the frothy beverage. Since being here he's knocked back several of these...but he's far more alert than the average person. His eyes have been scoping the environment for some time but for the last several minutes his eyes have been deadlocked on a slender dark haired, dark-eyed specimen who's seemingly the same height. This person has noticed Anthony's gaze on him and he returns the sultry look whilst dancing with someone else but doesn't seem to care at all. Anthony can tell even through his clothes that he's fit which is only one turn on. His flawless face is number one and can't be denied. Now past the "I noticed you" game this person whispers something in his dance partner's ear then begins walking in Anthony's direction...

"Hey". 

Anthony: "Hey". 

"I've never seen you here before". 

Anthony: "Yeah it's my first time and um, I like what I see". 

This for now nameless stranger has an inkling that Anthony isn't talking about the club so he smirks while keeping that seductive look on at him. Then he decides it's time to introduce himself...

"I'm Jake, and you are"?

"Anthony". 

Jake: "Nice to meet you, Anthony". 

Anthony's eyes slowly scan his body and when he meets his eyes again he seductively replies...

Anthony: "Likewise".

Jake: "Would you like to dance"?

Anthony: "I'm not much of a dancer". 

Jake: "Then I'll cut right to the point. I'm trying to take someone home tonight". 

Anthony doesn't respond, rather, his gaze stays on him as he brings the beer to his mouth for another sip. Moments later he's on his feet and slowly walking forward. They're so close now that the tips of their noses are close to touching each other...and slowly but surely the seduction begins to rise... 

~3 am~

Larry had every intention and he had also hoped to be asleep until tomorrow morning where he wouldn't be as upset...but when Anthony walked through the door he didn't take any care to be quiet even though he knew Larry would be asleep. Because of that Larry feels anger building and when Anthony walks into the bedroom not having a care in the world he's now infuriated. The glow from the moonlight allows Anthony to see well enough to walk around to his side of the bed so there's no need to flick on the light. As he's removing his clothes he's startled by Larry's light being flickered on and looking blankly at him...

Larry: "You want to explain"?  

Anthony: *sigh* "Explain what"?

Larry: "Why you didn't call or text me back". 

Anthony: "I was busy". 

Larry: "Until 3 o'clock in the morning"?

Anthony: "Yeah well I'm home now so go back to sleep".  

Larry: "I don't think so. If this was me you would be upset. Now where were you"? 

Anthony: "I just went out ok"?

Larry: "You've been drinking too". 

Anthony: "Yeah? So"?

Larry: "So you don't drink like this and why couldn't you call or text me to tell me where you were going? You can tell me to quit the club but you couldn't tell me that you would be out for a while"?

Anthony: "I'm tired. Don't start that club shit". 

Larry: "I'm not starting anything and I was waiting for you. I cooked dinner too that you didn't show up for and now you don't want to answer me"?

Anthony: *sigh* "Just go back to sleep Larry". 

Anthony plops down on the bed and now there's a scent wafting in the air and it isn't the smell of the alcohol on his breath. Going out and not responding to any of his ways of contact certainly upsets Larry but having a drink or two wouldn't make him suspicious which he is now so he replies, "that's not your cologne" to which Anthony doesn't even respond. He merely pulls the cover over him leaving Larry to ponder why his senses are getting a fill of this strong, husky scent. It didn't take long for Anthony to fall into a deep sleep so since Larry won't be getting any further explanation his eyes are now darting in confusion. Anthony went out so it must have been a club and it was just harmless dancing at whatever club he went to...but that only begs the question of why he isn't answering questions and chooses to be so elusive about what his night consisted of. That, only leads him to begin thinking the worst. Larry is without question still angry about his several failed attempts to get a hold of him...but this cologne can only mean that Anthony cheated on him. He's then reminded of the day he came to live with Anthony and how he took Larry's face in his hands to tell him that he would never hurt him again so if he did cheat that was a lie. His mind is completely boggled because this change in behavior literally happened overnight. Since he won't be getting any answers now he turns to his side and turns the lamp off then rests on his side as he tries to figure out what could have happened between yesterday and now to have Anthony so shut off. So distant...

----------------------------- 

A/N: Alright my loves. What do you all think is going on with Anthony? Could it be what happened at the end of the last chapter and Larry is just unaware that he heard him? If so, what will happen from here? Sound off in the comments! Love you guys. :)