Chapter Twenty-Two: It's Over Now

 AUTHOR'S POV   

Laurent is the first to wake up. He looks over at Larry, smiles at that angelic face then slides closer to him. Larry hasn't moved at all from the movement...more than likely because of the exhaustion from these past few days in court and because of that Laurent really wants him to rest but they have to get going. Today is the day Marco's trial comes to an end and they're very eager to know what his verdict will be. He also thinks about Marcus and is anxious about how long it will be before they hear something regarding his case. Laurent is thinking so hard that he nearly delays getting up so they can make it on time. He softly kisses Larry on his shoulder and whispers...

Laurent: "Bebe? It's time to get up now".

Larry whimpers at Laurent waking him up and it's so adorable Laurent smiles again...

Laurent: "Come on bebe".

Groggily replying in a sweet voice...

Larry: "I just want to sleep baby". 

Laurent kisses him on the shoulder again then replies equally as sweet...

Laurent: "I want you to rest too my love but we have to go to court". 

Larry: *sigh* "Oki". 

Laurent climbed out of bed first then walks to Larry's side to help him up. It won't take long to get ready and to kill time they shower together. Normally that would be a moment they enjoy and take their time but time is of the essence so they wash and get out...

Now dressed and ready Laurent goes to grab his phone and the key card when he catches Larry with his head down...

Laurent: "What's wrong bebe"?

Larry: "I'm worried Marco will get away. His lawyer asked a lot of questions I never think for". 

Laurent: "It doesn't matter what she asked my love. Everyone saw proof of what he did so don't worry for that bebe". 

Larry: *nods* "Oki". *pause* "But I'm really worried for Marcus. He just tried to help us". 

Laurent softly sighs as he sees that worry written all over his loves face. He goes over to wrap Larry in his arms to which Larry gladly accepts the embrace...  

Laurent: "I don't like to see you like this bebe. It really will be oki".   

Even though Laurent is telling Larry not to worry he has to admit he has the same fears about Marcus. His charges are very serious and if he receives prison time that will hurt them deeply...but until they know for sure they still have to get to court. Laurent slowly pulls away then takes Larry's face in his hands while looking deep into his eyes then whispers...

Laurent: "I love you". 

Larry: "I love you too", he whispers back. 

Laurent: *smile and wink* "Let's go".

*****

The courtroom is extremely quiet and the jury is already seated. Marco is seated as well and is having a conversation with his attorney. Marcus hasn't entered the courtroom as of yet and they wonder why but now the judge is coming out so they don't have time to think about it. As everyone is instructed to rise their nervousness increases because the attorneys are making their closing arguments which means it's the final time for them to make their case either for or against Marco. Then it will be all up to the jury...

Judge: "Please be seated". *everyone sits* "Ok. Today we're hearing closing arguments after which the jury will be excused to deliberate on a verdict". *pause* "Mrs. Wright, you may begin".

Prosecuting Attorney 

"Ladies and gentleman of the jury. The job of the prosecution is to show that the defendant engaged in behavior that required malicious intent. Not only did he blackmail two people for a reason beyond understanding he also caused severe bodily harm to one of them. Now the defense attorney will have you to believe that the stabbing was purely out of self-defense...but that begs the question of why would he even show up armed with a knife if all he was there for was dance practice? He had zero knowledge of what would actually occur that day. Therefore I submit that although it appears as though the defendant was an innocent person in that respect he still took special care to arm himself. Now it may be a little premature to say that the stabbing was planned or premeditated but to suggest that he was acting out of self-defense when he knowingly showed up with the weapon to begin with without any knowledge of the subsequent events is a stretch...and the prosecution asks that you keep that in mind. As it relates to the extortion, Mr. Larry Bourgeois gave his testimony that need I remind you was corroborated by Ms. Delilah Phillips. There was money involved. The defendant knowingly stabbed a man, knew he was going to be in trouble for it then blackmailed Mr. Bourgeois in an attempt to run away from his crime. That was not "reacting without thinking" as the defense will lead you to believe. That was the defendant protecting the defendant. Now, I ask you to recall the high-speed chase said defendant took the police on which included shooting at those officers as well as the hole he shot through the tire that would prevent them from continuing the chase. His last attempt at freedom was to shoot a man who was simply trying to help him after the vehicle crashed and ultimately take their car, which led to additional charges, such as leaving the scene of that accident and eventually leading the cops on yet another high speed chase before he was finally captured". *pause* "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury. With all of this information, does this truly sound like someone who was merely reacting to a stabbing that supposedly happened in "self-defense"? It certainly doesn't sound that way to me. He was trying to get away from the damage he caused to Mr. Laurent Bourgeois and ended up causing even more damage to several innocent people and I ask that you bring back the verdict of guilty. *pause* The prosecution rests your honor". 

Defending Attorney

"Ladies and gentlemen of the jury. I would like to go back to the stabbing. Now the prosecution stated that my client would not have shown up armed for a dance practice. However, this begs the question of why wouldn't he show up armed? After all, this is New York where some of the most heinous and notorious crimes have occurred. It's not unlikely for people to keep some sort of protection on them regardless of where they're going as any one of us can be robbed, attacked or whatever at any given moment and we have the right to protect ourselves. And this isn't just limited to the state of New York. All over the world, women carry pepper spray on their key chains or some people carry certain objects that may be small in size but pack a lot of power for "just in case" moments. How do we know that my client doesn't carry protection on him regularly for that same reason? Do not let the fact that he was going to dance practice rule out the possibility of my client being ready for anything to happen that may warrant the use of a weapon. He could have been attacked on the way there and used it in that situation so wouldn't my client have the right to act in self-defense by using it? Now I realize that the remaining charges against my client appear to have strong evidence that would make him appear guilty and I can honestly say my client is aware of those things but if may submit to you that my client, much like anyone else, was very much in a fight or flight situation. By definition fight or flight means that we react to threats with a general discharge to either fight in that situation or take flight. Although he was acting out of self-defense he was still aware that someone had been hurt and as a result the two remaining people, Mr. Palmer and Mr. Bourgeois, could have easily caused harm to my client because of what happened to their brother and as such my client's physiological reaction was to flee as he saw a perceived threat to his survival. Now you may be asking yourselves, as compelling as this theory may sound, how does this explain the subsequent events that my client was a part of such as the high speed chase? Simple. My client reacted as I'm sure anyone would in that situation. Was it right? No. But is it uncommon for people to make poor decisions in the heat of passion? No. You heard Mr. Palmer testify and say the same thing to which my reply was simply "perhaps my client did the same thing...reacted". *pause* The defense rests your honor".

Judge: "Thank you Ms. Malone, Mrs. Wright. The jury will now be excused to deliberate".

Bailiff: "All rise".

Everyone in the courtroom stands to their feet as the bailiff retrieves the verdict form from the judge then proceeds to escort the jury to the deliberation room. It can take several hours for them to come back which is perfect as Larry and Laurent need to check on their brother...  

Laurent: "We have to see for Marcus bebe".

Larry: "Yeah you're right baby. Let's go". 

They won't have to go far because when they stand up and turn around they see the detective and they're really curious as to why they're just now seeing him...  

Detective: "Hey guys. How was it today"?

Laurent: "Even I have to admit, Marco's lawyer said some things that made me think but I know justice will be served".   

Detective: "I'm certain it will be. Just follow me gentlemen".

Laurent and Larry look at each other with confused looks on their faces but nonetheless follow the detective out of the courtroom. Standing right across from them and leaning against the wall is Marcus. Naturally their eyes widen in excitement as smiles spread across their faces. They run over to him and they all engage in brotherly hugs...

Larry: "What happened"?

The detective gladly answers...

Detective: "That was some testimony you gave Mr. Bourgeois. Turns out that Mr. Reyes  was deeply affected by your words and requested to speak to his attorney yesterday. Imagine my surprise when I was informed that he wanted all charges dropped against Mr. Palmer. He didn't say why but perhaps he realized that what he did to the two of you was wrong and he understood wanting to prevent him from getting away with it. Now crimes were still committed so he wasn't able to completely walk away but with some negotiating, and the fact that he doesn't have any priors, Mr. Palmer received two years probation and 1500 hours of community service in lieu of a potential two year or more prison sentence. In exchange for her testimony against Mr. Reyes Ms. Phillips received a smaller sentence since she was a part of the high speed chase and was with Mr. Reyes in an attempt to flee the country as well. She received five years and will also have an additional three years of probation once released. Since Mr. Kevin Baker played a smaller role, in exchange for his testimony he received one year in prison with one year of probation once released. Now all that's left are the remaining crimes that the jury is currently deliberating on the biggest crime of course being the murder he committed in North Carolina. Thankfully he confessed to that and will receive the proper sentencing. I had the pleasure of calling the family myself and telling them and they are so overjoyed". *pause* "Now with all of that being said, no matter what the jury says in there or if it appears he is getting a slap on the wrist for his crimes here the murder will place him prison for a very long time".

Laurent and Larry can't believe what they're hearing...but in a good way. They're grinning from ear to ear. Then... 

Laurent: *smile* "I can't believe this". *pause* "I'm so happy right now".

Larry: *smile* "Me too. Thank you for all you help detective".

Detective: *smile* "You're welcome". *pause* "Well I'll let you all have some time together. I'll call you when the jury has reached a verdict".

As soon as he leaves all three of them happily give each other more brotherly hugs...

Larry: *smile* "Marcus. We're really not sure what to say man. You sacrificed so much for us".

Marcus: *smile* "I told you Larry. I wouldn't hesitate to do any of it again". 

Larry stands there speechless...although his returning smile said all that needs to be said...

Laurent: *smile* "Let's go and have some fun". 

Marcus: *smile* "Cool". 

~hours later~

The guys left to enjoy a day out in the city. They had lunch and did some shopping. They caught the attention of several fans shouting "It's Les Twins"! and running up to them for autographs and pictures. A few of them notice their glow and one of them mentions it...

Fan: *smile* "You guys are really glowing". 

Larry: *smile* "Yeah we are". *pause* "So what's your name beautiful"? 

Laurent is in the middle of an autograph when he gets the urge to look up at his love. He smiles at how happy he is and when Larry feels his eyes on him he looks up then smiles sweetly and winks with Laurent doing the same. He finishes his autograph and now it's time for the fans to be on their way...

Fans: "Byeee! Thank you"!

Laurent and Larry: "Anytime". 

No sooner than they walk away Laurent's cell phone rings... 

Detective: "Mr. Bourgeois. The jury is ready. I'll see you soon". 

Laurent: "Oki. We'll be right there". *releases call* 

Laurent: "That was the detective. The jury is ready so we have to go back now".

Marcus: "Let's go". 

*****

The boys sit in silence...and slight nerves as they wait for court to begin. Suddenly the door swings open and the jury files back into the courtroom. After the judge came out and took his place... 

Judge: "Has the jury reached a verdict"?

*juror foreman stands*

Juror Foreman: "We have your honor".

Judge: "The defendant will now rise". 

Marco and his attorney stand up and Marco turns to look at them... but it isn't with an evil face. It's a face full of remorse and he did something they totally didn't see coming. He mouthed the words "I'm sorry" and without question this shocked all of them...but they don't respond nor can they because Marco immediately turns his attention to the jury... 

Judge: "What say you"?

Juror Foreman: "We the jury, in the case of the state of New York versus Mr. Marco Reyes, find the defendant guilty on the charge of extortion. On the charge of assault with a deadly weapon on Mr. James Walsh as well as the count of grand theft auto, "guilty". On the charge of leaving the scene of an accident, "guilty". On the charge of 2nd degree attempted murder of Mr. Laurent Bourgeois...." *pause* "....we find the defendant not guilty for the attempted murder charge but we do find the defendant guilty for assault with a deadly weapon". *pause* "Finally, on the charges of eluding police and the attempted murder of multiple police officers by shooting, we find the defendant...."guilty".

Larry closes his eyes and lets out a huge sigh of relief as Laurent holds his hand...

Judge: "Thank you, Jury, for your service. Sentencing for Marco Reyes will be held one week from today at noon. *slams gavel* "Court is adjourned".

Everyone in the courtroom stands up to disburse. Larry and Marcus are turning to leave but they don't feel Laurent behind them. Larry turns around and sees Laurent looking in Marco's direction so he looks with him. They both see Marco give them a head nod and a small smile. Unlike his previous smirks they can tell this is sincere. Then...  

Larry: "Come on baby".

Laurent watches Marco until he disappears behind the doors then looks at Larry...

Laurent: "It's over now". 

~one week later~

Today is the day of the battle and of course Laurent and Larry didn't go through all of this not to compete. As soon as they arrived they received so much love from the people who followed the case saying that they were glad it's over and expressed how appalled they were at the extent Marco took everything. Of course Marcus is by their side on for support. With this battle they vowed to each other to give their everything and keeping what happened on their minds as they go out there to release all of the emotions that came with it. All of the anger, all of the pain and the distance that it created between them even if it was just for a short period of time they agreed to leave it all on the floor. This battle mirrors Juste Debout battles where they compete against other duos. No one had ever seen such power...such determination in them as they do today and boy is it a sight to see. Every spin Laurent made, he made it mean something far beyond anyone's imagination. The speed of Larry's footwork seemed to have a mind of it's own and he completely floored everyone in the room. It's literally like lightning. They're giving new meaning to the nicknames "Beast and Blaze". The sweat that has been dripping profusely from their bodies is evident that they're on a mission...but it's not  a mission to win. It's a mission to prove that they are and will forever be Les Twins...and no one will ever take that away from them... 

Every battle that they competed in whether it was as a duo or alone it seems as though the crowd cheered harder and longer each time they were announced as the winners. Then came the final battle and they were up against some really strong competition...but like all battles they danced strong and hard. The crowd stayed pumped and all that energy is giving the boys this amazing feeling of being on top of the world. Even if they don't win, they've given it their all. Then it was time for the announcement of the grand winners. When the last judge hit the button to cast his vote Les Twins were deemed the winners and of course they're elated...as is the crowd. They congratulated their opponents on a great battle, given their plaques and now it's official. Laurent and Larry Bourgeois...a.k.a Les Twins...are the champions... 

*****

Marcus: *smile* "I'm so proud of you my brothers. You did your thing and it was amazing to see".

Larry: *smile* "Thank you bro but this wasn't just for us...this was for you too".

Laurent: *smile* "Yeah man. We share this with you".   

They give each other love then Larry and Laurent receive love from the crowd before they leave...proud of what they accomplished and went off to celebrate...

*the next day*

After checking out of the hotel Marcus is now on his way back home with Laurent and Larry there to see him off...  

Marcus: "Well I guess this is it fellas. I'm going back home now".

Laurent: *smile* "Alright bro. You have a safe flight and...I know we've said it a lot but we just can't say it enough". *pause* "Thank you". 

Larry: *smile* "Thank you so much".

Marcus: *smile* "Anytime".

Marcus embraces them separately and he holds on for as long as possible because who knows when he'll see them again...but he doesn't need to see them regularly to know that they will always be his brothers... 

Marcus: "I love you guys". *pause* "Promise me you will always be happy, love and protect each other".

Larry: "We love you too Marcus...and we promise".

With a soft look at Larry....

Laurent: "Always", he whispers.   

Marcus: "Alright. Well I better get out of here".

They watch Marcus headed down the jet way...but before he disappears he turns to give them one more smile and extends his fist giving them an "air pound" to which the boys return. He turns back around to keep going and now he's no longer in their view...

Laurent: "Alright bebe. We have a train to catch".

After everything that's happened they decide to have time away from the talk of everything but most importantly time to relax from their constant work. Of course they love what they do and will never complain because they're living their dream but this break is something they both need to regroup...

Larry: *nods* "I'm ready baby".

Just as they're making their way Laurent receives a call from the detective...

Laurent: "Hey detective".

Detective: *smile* "Mr. Bourgeois. I have some great news for you. You will be happy to know that Mr. Reyes was sentenced to fifteen years for his crimes against you and your brother. Even though the murder he committed occurred in North Carolina there is no statute of limitation on a crime of that magnitude so it's possible that he could get life in prison or close to it. Justice has finally been served".

Laurent: *smile* "Yes it has detective". *pause* "I'll tell Larry. Thank you for calling me". 

Detective: *smile* "My pleasure".

Laurent releases the call and continues to smile. When Larry notices...

Larry: *smile* "What is it baby"? 

Laurent tells Larry the great news and soon after his signature smile spreads across his face...

Laurent: *smile* "I love to see you smile". *pause* "I told you everything would be oki bebe".

Larry continues to smile as they make their way on the train. The whole ride the boys switch from gazing into each others' eyes and falling asleep...thankful that whatever they're doing it's next to each other... 

~destination~ 

*smile* "Welcome to River View Cabin Resort. Are you checking in"?

Laurent: *smile* "Stacy. Do you remember us"?

*pause*

Stacy: *smile* "Of course. The Bourgeois twins...and you came back together this time".

Laurent: "Yeah we did and yes, we're checking in".

While Stacy pulls up their reservation Laurent and Larry take the time to give each other a soft look and smile. Then...

Stacy: "You two are all set. Enjoy your stay".

Laurent: "Thank you Stacy...and we will".

*****

The cabin they're in is at the right temperature and it's pretty quiet for the most part. The only exception is the warm blaze from the fireplace cackling and in front of that fireplace Larry's vision when he came to this resort alone of him and Laurent making love in front of it is happening in this very moment. Laurent is taking his breath away with each stroke, each tender touch, and each kiss that is softly placed on his face, lips and neck. He's on such a high that he can feel his eyes roll to the back of his head on occasion from the immense amount of pleasure he's feeling. The sound of his lovers voice would bring him back and cause him to look delicately into his eyes...

Laurent: "I love you so much bebe".

Larry: *smile* "I love you more".

Laurent: *smile* "I have a present for you". 

Laurent's deep strokes come to a halt temporarily as he brings out a black box that he had discreetly hid under the blanket. He slowly opens it to reveal a platinum, diamond studded band that made Larry's mouth drop.... 

Larry: "It's beautiful baby but what is this for"?

Laurent: *smile* "It's for my commitment to you...to us". *pause* "You're the most important person in my life and I will spend the rest of it making sure I show you everyday. This is just a start".

Larry feels tears prick his eyes and fall down his temples at such a beautiful gesture...

Larry: *sniff* "Thank you baby but I don't have anything to give you".

Laurent: *smile* "Yes you do". *pause* "Your love".

Larry's face softens even more as Laurent slips the ring on his left finger then leans down to kiss him warmly and passionately. He resumes his strokes which earns some sweet moaning and light panting from his love. They aren't sure if they will ever shout their love for each other to the world...but whether they're lovers or not the love between them is beautifully obvious and in this moment it doesn't really matter if or when it will ever come out. Laurent loves Larry, Larry loves Laurent...and that is all they will ever want or need...      

------------------------ 

A/N: My amazing followers. 'Secret Love Affair' has concluded. I would like to thank everyone for reading, commenting and voting. Even though this story is complete I hope that you will share it with other Les Twins fans and if you enjoyed it that much I hope you will come back and go through this bumpy ride all over again lol! But seriously, if you aren't aware I started another Les Twins BoyxBoy FanFic called 'Sleeping with the Enemy' that addresses the topic of domestic violence. I know it's a touchy subject but please start reading it if you haven't including the 'Word from the Author'. It explains why I chose it. For those that are currently reading it, thank you so much for all of the votes and comments thus far. Love you guys :)        

~lestwinsdesire








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