AUTHOR'S POV 

"10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1! Happy New Year"!

Or Felice Anno Nuovo as gleefully shouted from several of the citizens of Milan, Italy. The streets are buzzing in excitement and cheering as fireworks illuminate the sky in celebration of a new year. Just a few feet above sit Larry and Laurent Bourgeois on the balcony of their suite where they've been enjoying a delicious dinner with the entire course recommended by the main chef of the connecting restaurant. Lentils which signifies good fortune and cotechino, a spicy sausage which signifies the richness of life in the coming year. There are other items a part of the delectable meal such as an antipasto (appetizer) of staple Italian foods such as pepperoni and olives with fresh mozzarella cheese as well as salad and bread. They've been in Milan for an entire week and the trip was a complete surprise to Larry. It was also perfect timing because his Christmas break from being a high school history teacher will be ending soon and this was the perfect wrap up to that. When he asked Laurent what he did to deserve such a romantic getaway Laurent merely yet sweetly replied with a smile on his face, "because I love you". Of course loving Larry will always be the case but Laurent can't lie and say that taking a vacation from his often very stressful career as a financial asset manager was desperately needed. From the moment of the big surprise to the instant the plane landed in such a beautiful place it's been nothing but bliss as they've thoroughly enjoyed everything the town had to offer. Quaint bistros and intimate wine bars where they spent most of their time simply gazing into each other's eyes. Sightseeing several places such as the Piazza San Fedele, a traditional lovers' meeting place where the statue of Alessandro Manzoni sits, the famous Italian author who wrote "The Betrothed", a dramatic story of two lovers set in 1628...a time of war, famine and plague. Only one day in and Laurent loved nothing more than to see Larry's eyes lighting up at everything. These were the moments he lived for and making Larry happy is something he will never hesitate to do. As the busy and exciting streets below them continue to boast in glee Larry and Laurent raise their half-filled glasses of a rich red wine to clank them together then take a sip...their eyes directly on each other as they do. They set the glasses down on the table then look up into the sky at the fireworks. Then Laurent has an idea so he stands up and walks over to Larry. With a sweet smile on his face he extends his hand down so Larry can take hold of it. He gently helps him up and they walk over to the banister. With Larry pressed against the rail Laurent stands directly behind him with each arm wrapped around as his hands rest on the railing. They go back to looking up into the sky to continue watching the fireworks. At one point Laurent looks at Larry's profile and with that signature Larry smile as well as the glow from those fireworks making those already mesmerizing eyes even more beautiful it's certainly a sight for Laurent to see. He softly kisses Larry's cheek while his arms go from resting on the banister to being wrapped around Larry's waist then he joins him in looking up into the sky again. However the activity of the streets can't go unnoticed and at the same time they look down...their smiles growing wider as they see all the joy surrounding them. Many people say Paris is the city of love but Milan is definitely giving it a run for its money. Since they've been here if they weren't out and about sightseeing they were inside their large suite spending time together and making love. No question that making love to Larry is in Laurent's plans for tonight but first things first and after another soft peck on Larry's cheek he whispers...

Laurent: "You enjoy this my love. I'll be right back". 

Larry: *nods* "Oki baby". 

One more soft kiss to the cheek and Laurent turns around to collect the dishes from dinner to take them inside then makes his way to the bedroom to set the perfect ambiance. The entire time he's setting up he's smiling as he reflects on their time here. It's been amazing but they leave for Paris tomorrow which also makes it bittersweet. That's why he's pulling out all stops tonight to ensure Larry has a wonderful memory etched in his heart. With the last of the rose petals in place as they form a path alongside candles Laurent looks around to make sure everything is perfect then dims the lights before heading for the balcony to bring his love inside. He reaches the opening of it but stops momentarily to just look at him. There's a gentle breeze this night and it's softly blowing through Larry's hair. How he's always loved that fro. Now he's hearing a small laugh coming from Larry and he imagines it's because he sees something funny or something adorable that made him react in such a way. The fireworks that were going so strong moments ago have stopped and as beautiful as they were they won't be anything in comparison to the fireworks they always experience when they're in a heated moment of passion and love. Laurent of course can't wait for that but he also wants to take his time for the build up to it can only make it more enjoyable and pleasureful for the both of them. He steps forward and now behind him again his arms go back around Larry's waist and he asks in a sweet tone...

Laurent: "You ready to come inside with me"?  

Larry: *smile* "I'm always ready for you baby". 

Laurent lightly chuckles at that response then takes his love by the hand to guide him inside and down the path to the room. The light scent of the aromatherapy candles begin to fill Larry's senses and as they approach the bedroom Larry catches a glimpse of the romantic setup. Right away the smile that's already on his face spreads because the sight is too beautiful for it not to.  Laurent stops them in the middle of the room so he can go over and turn on some romantic music. As he's walking back to his love he sees Larry essentially blushing at the song chosen that's echoing beautifully from the sound system...

Laurent: *smile* "Dance with me"?

Larry: *smile* "Of course", he whispers. 

Laurent keeps full eye contact on him and now directly in front of him they share a sweet kiss as Larry feels Laurent's strong arms wrap around him causing a slight chill from the magnetic touch to come over him. Larry turns his head and gently rests his cheek on Laurent's shoulder and as they sway from side to side he closes his eyes and soaks in every second of this. Laurent then takes his hands to smoothly rub them up and down Larry's back ultimately taking one hand to place in his soft hair to begin an equally smooth stroke as the other hand stays delicately on his back. Sporadic kisses are placed on the back of Larry's neck and in between Laurent is becoming lost in the sweet scent radiating from him. His eyes are also closed and as he holds this beautiful man in his arms the amount of love he has for him suddenly comes over him like a gush of wind and he feels the urge to hold onto him tighter. Larry is practically lost in all of the emotions he feels in this moment and feeling Laurent's strong grasp on him he feels tears prick his eyes. Suddenly he hears...

Laurent: "I can hold you like this forever", he whispers. 

Larry: "You have me forever", he whispers back.

Laurent: "Thank you for choosing me". 

Larry slowly raises his head because he can't imagine not looking into Laurent's eyes as he replies...

Larry: "Thank you for loving me". 

Laurent gazes into those beautiful, round eyes and with a gentle stroke of Larry's cheek he comes forward and their lips connect. The kiss is as soft as a breeze yet strong and powerful. Their tongues eventually collide and though the temptation to go harder is a natural instinct in a moment such as this they keep it soft...much like the endearing words they just spoke to each other moments ago. When they release that sweet gaze continues before Larry goes back to resting his cheek on Laurent's shoulder. With his eyes closed he also can't resist the urge to soak in the scent of him. It's a comforting scent and it accurately matches what Larry feels every time he's in these arms. Comfort, security, eternal bliss and so much more. The melody of music is now fading away slowly so Laurent pulls himself away and as he looks back at Larry he's taking his hand in his to lead them over to the bed that also has a few rose petals scattered about on top. There's still the sound of the New Year festivities taking place outside...but they hear very little of it as their focus is solely on each other. Laurent pulls the plush cover back then takes his place back in front of Larry and as he removes each article of Larry's clothing his eyes stay deadlocked on him. Larry's bottom lip doesn't hesitate to find its way sucked in and with a delicate bite to it he can feel his arousal going into overdrive. Now with that hard body completely in the nude Laurent bends down to scoop him up threshold style then he places him in the center of the bed. He steps back to come out of his own clothes but his eyes are still heavily focused on Larry who's returning that sultry look and as Laurent's body is slowly revealed Larry takes hold of his erect manhood to begin a light stroke of it as he watches. When Laurent removes his pants Larry's eyes travel down and now he's looking at all of Laurent's glory that's so hard it's pointing straight ahead. He looks back up at Laurent who has his own bottom lip sucked in and now Larry is watching him crawl onto the bed...the look in his eye that of raw passion but of course love. Now hovered over him they begin to kiss and although it's a fairly gentle one it's also slightly more aggressive than the one they shared during their slow dance. Their throbbing members rub against each other and they release a moan with Larry following that up with, "I need you inside me now baby". Laurent's reply is a whispered "oki" then he reaches down to take a firm grip of his throbbing shaft and with it now lined up with Larry's hole he slowly pushes in...a resounding "ahhh" releases from both of them and onto each other's lips. Laurent's rhythm is strong and deep and as he repeatedly hits Larry's prostate Larry is experiencing such an out of this world ecstasy that all he can do is turn his head to the side to moan. He had been at a loss for words or any sound for that matter since feeling Laurent enter him but he simply can't hold back anymore, oh Laurent. You feel sooo goood babyyyy". Laurent has clear access to Larry's cheek but when he drops his mouth to kiss it they're lazy kisses because he's in his own state of ecstasy. He feels Larry's heat causing his eyes to roll to the back of his head at the sensation and he has no choice but to increase his speed as it feels so damn good. Suddenly he feels Larry's body tense up underneath him followed by a light trembling and it isn't long before he feels the heat of Larry's thick, hot liquid cascading across his abs accompanied by Larry's sweet whimpers at such an intense orgasm. Laurent's orgasm isn't that far away and it would be impossible for it not to be because of the way Larry's walls have tightened around him. He places a kiss on Larry's lips then whispers against them...

Laurent: "Can I cum inside of you"? 

Larry: "Yes baby. Please cum inside of me", he whispers erotically. 

Laurent: *kiss* "Oki", he whispers.

Laurent presses his cheek against Larry's and with his climax on the tip he whimpers in Larry's ear. He then releases powerfully causing both of them to cry out so loudly that it echoes around the entire suite. They take a few moments to collect themselves...then it comes to Laurent that the sweet substance from his love awaits him so he lowers himself to lick it clean off his abs...and it's definitely sweet. The sweetest taste he can ever have in his mouth. Well, other than the taste of Larry's lips whenever he has the pleasure of having them on his. He licks up the last drop then raises up and looks down into his eyes...

Laurent: *smile* "Amazing". 

Larry: *smile* "Yeah it was". 

Laurent: *kiss* "How about a bath"?

Larry: *chuckles* "Together"?

Laurent: *chuckles* "I don't want it any other way". 

Larry: *smile* "I would love a bath with you". 

Laurent: *smile* "Perfect. I'll run the water for us. You just relax for now".

Larry smiles because it's just like Laurent to spoil him in such a way. Laurent is sure he even sees a hint of blushing and he chuckles again at it then stands up to head for the bathroom which is just a few feet away from the bed. He slides the door open and steps into the large space...

As the hot water runs into the large, round bathtub he pours in a few drops of bubbles that have a light yet husky scent to it. When it's filled he stops the water then goes for Larry who has a look on his face he's completely enamored with because it's a look of tranquility and happiness so Laurent can't help but feel joy seeing it. When he's closer to him Larry snaps out of his trance to look up at him. Without one word Laurent extends his hand to help him up then guide him to the bathtub. He helps Larry step in safely and once he's seated Laurent climbs in and takes his place behind him. Larry's back rests against Laurent's chest and they spend a few minutes in silence before Larry speaks up...

Larry: "Thank you so much for this trip baby. It was so much fun and it was so romantic too". 

Laurent: "Anything for you". *kisses cheek*

Larry: "We should come back this summer. I would love to see this place in the summer". 

Laurent: "Yeah. I hear the gelato is the best here". 

Larry: "Mmm. That sounds so good". 

Laurent: *chuckles* "Yes it does". *pause* "You ready for school to start again"?

Larry: "Yeah I'm ready. I have to talk with some parents I didn't have a chance to before the break but I'm ready. I have a good class. You ready for work"?

Laurent: *laugh* "Not really but I guess I'll go". 

Larry: *laugh* "You better". 

Their in sync laughter carries on for another moment then fades away as Laurent takes the loofah covered in body wash to give Larry a relaxing scrub. After he's done he sweetly instructs him to get out and dry off then get clothed while he stays behind to scrub himself then get out to do the same. When he emerges from the bathroom he sees Larry comfortable in bed and he can't wait to be next to him so he quickly gets dressed. They will leave the TV off tonight and close out bringing in the New Year in silence. Larry turns on his side as he sees Laurent climbing in bed and now face to face they gaze at each other. Laurent brings his open hand up so Larry can place the palm of his hand against it and they lock fingers together...eventually the final words before sleep consumes them being spoken...

Laurent: *smile and wink* "Happy New Year my love". 

Larry: *smile* "Happy New Year baby. I love you". 

Laurent: *smile* "I love you too". 

They come in for a kiss then Laurent pulls Larry into him so they can fall asleep together...

~morning~

Laurent is awake first and he's thankful that the day greets him with clear, sunny weather since they have a flight today. The sound of typical morning music can be heard from outside such as the chirping of the birds perched on the banister and the sound of it is soothing. Larry's head is exactly where he placed it the night before and Laurent lowers his mouth to give him a kiss to the top of his head. He looks over at the clock on the nightstand and they have slightly over two hours before they have to catch their flight home. To make sure they have time for breakfast and packing Laurent carefully slides from underneath him to step outside to call room service and order breakfast. While he waits he heads to the bathroom to freshen up then back over to the bed. He quietly takes his place next to Larry again and simply watches him sleep. As he looks lovingly at that face his mind goes back to last night and everything about it...particularly their dance. Laurent was holding him so delicately but it was also an armor of protection in a sense. There's nothing that Laurent strives for more than to protect the love of his life just as much as he loves him and he always hopes that Larry feels that whenever he's in his arms. As he looks at that beautifully sculpted face he thinks about their lives growing up and the memories are enough to make a vow to himself that he will do all he can to make sure that happens. He takes his pointer finger to trace Larry's jawline then gently outlines his lips...finishing by applying a soft, sweet kiss to his forehead. He then hears the knock on the door for room service and thankfully it doesn't wake Larry up as he doesn't want him to just yet. He wants to have everything set up so Larry can stay asleep for the time being. Laurent quickly but quietly goes to the bathroom to put on the complimentary white bathrobe provided by the hotel then heads for the door. Upon opening it he's greeted by a warm smile accompanied by an authentic Italian accent... 

Server: *smile* "Good morning sir. I have the breakfast you ordered". 

Laurent: *smile* "Thank you. You can set it up on the table over there but please be very quiet". 

The server nods with a smile and rolls in the table containing everything. Per Laurent's instructions he takes care to keep the noise at a minimum and he finishes rather quickly. Laurent tips him generously then sees him to the door. Now it's time to wake Larry up so they can eat and get packed to ensure they don't miss their flight. Larry is a sleeping beauty just like he is any other time and Laurent hates he has to wake him up but he doesn't have a choice. Now next to him he places his hand on Larry's back and whispers...

Laurent: "Bup? Breakfast is here".

Larry slowly awakens and moans a little to which Laurent smiles but continues...

Laurent: "We have to eat then get ready to leave". 

Larry: "Just five more minutes Laurent". 

Laurent: "Aww I'm sorry but we don't have five minutes". 

Replying groggily yet innocently...

Larry: "Oki then two more minutes". 

Laurent can't help but chuckle at that and it was so adorable he can't possibly protest so he simply drops his mouth to Larry's ear and whispers, "oki" prompting Larry to go back to sleep. He goes back to rubbing Larry's back and as he's doing so he's placing soft kisses on his cheek as well as the side of his neck with Larry's face essentially nestled in Laurent's neck. If it were up to Laurent he would let him sleep as long as he wants but they really do have to get going so when two minutes are up he begins to gently shake him awake as he sweetly whispers, "oki bup. It's time". Larry whimpers but ultimately agrees then opens his eyes to look at Laurent who's already smiling. Larry groggily smiles in return then allows Laurent to help him up. He goes to the bathroom to freshen up and put on the other complimentary bathrobe then walks over to where breakfast is set up. Laurent takes off the lid to each dish revealing staple Italian breakfast foods such as prosciutto and egg sandwiches with fresh basil, a small breakfast casserole made with salami, a variety of fruits and coffee...

Larry: *smile* "We really have to come back baby. The food is so amazing here". 

Laurent: *smile* "I know. I'll miss the food too...but you know what I'll really miss"?

Larry: "What", he asks softly. 

Laurent: "The look on your face at all the places we went". 

Larry: "Thank you baby. You had a good time too and I love to see you so happy". 

Laurent: "Thank you my love". 

Larry smiles and nods then they go back to their meal with conversation reflecting their time in this splendid place. When breakfast is finished they get packed and Laurent calls the front desk to have a car come and drive them to the airport. Checking out of the hotel is a breeze but it also signifies the end of this amazing getaway and after packing the trunk up they climb in the backseat waiting to drive away from the amazing Hotel Mandarin Oriental in Milan, Italy...

~airport~

They arrive right on time to catch their flight and part of Laurent going all out for this trip was booking first class round trip tickets for them. Now on the plane they're comfortable in their seats when the flight attendant stops by their row...

Flight Attendant: *smile* "Peach Bellini"?

Larry looks over at Laurent who smiles and nods so he turns back to the attendant...

Larry: *smile* "Yes. Two please".

Flight Attendant: *smile* "Coming right up". 

Larry nods and they watch her prepare the bellinis which are similar to mimosas but instead of orange juice the juice of a peach is mixed with a serving of champagne. It's still fairly early in the day and normally they wouldn't drink but Laurent said yes because before they take off he has a special toast he wants to make so she came at the perfect time. She tops the drinks off by attaching a freshly sliced peach to the rim of the glasses then hands them over...

*example*

Laurent: *smile* "These look great".

Flight Attendant: *smile* "Thank you. I hope you enjoy and if you need anything else please use your call button and I'll be right over". 

Larry: *smile* "Oki. Thank you". 

Flight Attendant: *smile* "My pleasure". 

As she moves on to other passengers Larry turns to Laurent...

Larry: "I'm surprised you want a drink this early baby". 

Laurent: *chuckles* "I know but I want us to make a toast". 

Larry: "Oki. What are we toasting to"?

Laurent: *smile* "Raise your glass". 

Larry smiles shyly then raises his glass per Laurent's request and looks at him in anticipation of what it's for. Laurent leans closer to him and in a gentle voice that only Larry can hear...

Laurent: "This toast is to us my love. To us life and the love we have for each other. I'm going to surprise you with more trips like this and each day I will love you more than the day before". 

Larry was moved to tears the moment Laurent said this toast is to their life together and as Laurent's loving words poured so beautifully from his lips Larry's eyes slowly traveled between those beautiful lips as well as Laurent's warm eyes and when he finishes it takes Larry a minute to reply because he's so moved...

Larry: "That was so sweet baby. I'll love you more everyday too". *pause* "You're my entire life and I'm so happy to bring in another year with you". 

Laurent: *smile* "I love you", he whispers. 

Larry: *smile* "I love you too". 

They quietly clank their glasses together and just as they did the night before their eyes lock as they take a sip. Minutes later they hear the pilot over the speaker informing them of impending take off so after another sip they place their glasses in the cup holders next to them then lean back to rest against the seat hand in hand completely optimistic about the new year ahead...

--------------------------- 

A/N: Hey my loves. So I'm back with a new story which will be a thriller, suspense, and love story all wrapped up in one. And yes, Laurent calls Larry "bup". Please don't ask how I came up with it because I have no idea lol! I'm just trying switch things up a little. Hope everyone enjoyed! If so, please vote and comment! Love you guys. :)