#Hilton Hotel NYC | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

fletchervanhall · 6 months ago

Text

Big Talks | Flavier

Featuring: Fletcher Van Hall & Xavier Mitchell; mentions of other Van Halls and Mitchells. Location: Millennium Hilton Hotel; NYC, NY Time Frame: Early morning, April 26, 2024 Notes: Flavier have an important talk, the same morning that this took place. @xaviernottheprofessor

XAVIER

Waking up with the biggest smile on his face, Xavier’s immediate reaction was to wrap his arms around Fletcher but to his surprise, he wasn’t in bed with him. He rubbed his eyes and reached for his glasses before reaching for his phone and when he read his boyfriend’s text message, he smiled and stretched his arms. He had a slow day considering he’d be performing tomorrow which would give him and Fletcher time to be touristy. Xavier stood up as he checked his emails and made sure he had finished his work. He had one meeting in a couple of minutes and he figured he had enough time before Fletcher got back. Feeling a little sore but in the best way, Xavier practiced a few yoga poses before throwing on a t shirt and joining the quick Zoom call. Once he had finished, he looked at the time, getting slightly worried that his boyfriend was still out. Maybe it was just a busy morning at the store. He waited, wanting to take a shower with Fletcher and not alone and as he was about to text him, Xavier heard the door and smiled. “Hey! I was getting worried. Packed store?” He went to help Fletcher with the drinks and pressed a kiss against his lips. He noticed something off almost immediately and looked up at him. “Everything okay?”

FLETCHER

Despite his best efforts, Fletcher was still fuming from the encounter with Gerry. He'd stopped in the hotel lobby and set the bagels and drinks down to flex and straighten his fingers about a dozen times over. On impulse, he reached for his pho

ne to call his uncle now, but somehow, amidst his upset, remembered the 3 hour time difference and the likelihood that Drew was probably still asleep. So, after a few more deep, deep breaths, Fletcher picked up the breakfast items and strode to the elevators. Once he reached Xavier's hotel room, he arranged everything to one hand and opened the door with the key card. His expression was stony even though he'd wished it was calm and relaxed like it'd been when he left. He returned Xavier's kiss with little gusto and said, "No, not really," about the bagel shop being packed. He'd let Xavier take the drink tray and then set the bag of bagels down so he could pull his hoodie off. Tossing it to a chair, Fletcher stepped out of his shoes and sat down on the bed, running a hand down his face in an effort to wipe the tension away. "It will be. I'm just pissed. Kinda." He didn't even know how to start this conversation considering he never talked about his parents with anyone. He didn't even talk about them with Drew anymore.

"You should have your coffee before it gets cold. It should still be close to hot at least. And there's bagels in the bag. We've never had 'em together before so didn't know what you'd like and got a few different ones." Half naked in just his sweats, Fletcher leaned forward with his elbows on his thighs and his forefingers deliberately pressed against the corners of his eyes. "I know I should tell you what's up. I just don't know how." He sighed, almost never being one at a loss for words.

XAVIER

Xavier set the drinks on the table but kept his gaze on Fletcher. Something was definitely off about the other. "Well, that's good. Friday mornings shouldn't be too bad and rush hour is basically over." This was all filler conversation, of course. Xavier hoped Fletcher would take a moment to shake off what was bothering him enough to talk about if he needed to. When Fletcher said he was pissed, it got Xavier's attention. He could care less about the coffee, especially with how bothered and annoyed his boyfriend looked. "Alright, just take your time." He walked over to Fletcher and sat beside him, letting his hand settle on the other's back to massage small circles. "Don't worry about the coffee. I'll put it in the microwave if it gets too cold. I'm more worried about you."

Xavier glanced over to the bag of bagels and a small smile appeared on his face. He was grateful that Fletcher had gotten them breakfast. "Thank you. I like all bagels so I'm sure they're all great." He watched Fletcher, his smile slowly fading. Whatever was bothering his boyfriend, it was serious and he hated seeing him like this. "Whatever it is, I'm here to listen. Judgement-free zone and with an open heart and mind." He leaned in to press a kiss against Fletcher's temple. "What's going on?"

FLETCHER

He nodded, hearing but not fully listening to Xavier's comment about the busyness of the morning. And shortly after he felt Xavier approach, he moved his fingers from his eyes, rubbing them slightly to help clear his vision. He brought a hand down to rest on Xavier's thigh and finally said, "Don't worry about me, I'll be fine. Just..." He trailed off and leaned into Xavier's words of comfort. His shoulders slowly rose and fell, and his back expanded and contracted as he drew in a deep breath and sighed it back out, deciding to start somewhere and just go with it.

"I've never told you about... my parents. And it was on purpose because they're mostly irrelevant in my life now. Drew talks to them from time to time and that's about as much of a tie to them as I still have. They seem to have no real problem being a brother or a sister-in-law but being a parent? That was too much for them to handle. I was too much for them. They had me when they were close to 40 and back then, they were the oldest parents of anyone my age. I was born here, in New York, and I had a lot of energy as a kid. Like most kids. And like most kids, I wanted to ask every question that came to my mind which exhausted and annoyed them. I wanted to go everywhere and do everything. They didn't." He thought back for a moment, remembering times where he argued with both of his parents until his dad shut the entire conversation down--usually with threats of a belt whooping. He remembered them arguing with each other about him and on rare occasion, one of them was in support of him being who he was.

"But neither of them could really be parents. It just became more and more obvious as I got older. And when they couldn't take it anymore, they sent me to live with Drew. There's an age gap between him and my-... than Gerry." He wouldn't call the man his father. Not out loud and not in his head if he could help it. "At first it was just during the school year and I'd come back home during the Winter and Summer breaks. And then, after a few years, it was permanent. They didn't want me getting my hopes up of coming back to New York for good anytime soon, which at the time, was what I wanted." He cracked a brief, mirthless half-smile Xavier's way, "So when I say I was a little shit to Drew when I was a kid, now you know why. He was kinder to me and more patient with me than my parents ever were, but I didn't want to be in California with him. I wanted to be back home. It didn't make sense then but it was what I'd wanted. And when that wasn't an option to even come visit, I got angry. I acted out at home--namely towards my idiot cousins who resented me being there. And I acted out at school, got into trouble for it and acted like I didn't care. I'd cuss out my parents if they tried calling to talk to me, so eventually, they stopped trying. First Gerry. And then Shirley." He took another deep breath and balled his fingers into knuckle-white fists. "I hadn't seen or heard from either of them directly since high school. Drew tried to keep me in the loop on their lives but he learned pretty quick that I didn't wanna hear about them.

"But he must've talked to Gerry recently because the old man knew I was in town. And he knew I was here because I ran into him when I was coming back with breakfast."

XAVIER

Xavier shook his head in response to never being told about Fletcher's parents. There were a lot of conclusions that Xavier had made on his own based on conversations with Drew and things he had picked up along the way but nothing seemed concrete and he figured, it was a topic Fletcher didn't like to dive into. The mere fact that Drew was constantly praised and given credit for Fletcher's upbringing and the man he is today was enough evidence that Fletcher's parents weren't people worth mentioning and the more Xavier listened, the more he realized that was correct. It saddened him knowing his parents didn't want him and had made a big effort to push Fletcher away. No kid deserved that no matter the intention. Even if sending Fletcher to Drew was best for him, it didn't mean that as a boy he didn't feel neglected. Xavier listened intently, his heart hurting for Fletcher and the little boy that once existed and was forced to live a different life. While Drew was an angel and did right by Fletcher, he still had to go through the feeling of not being wanted or loved. He was starting to understand the barriers and walls that his boyfriend sometimes held up.

Learning that Fletcher was from New York wasn't so much a surprise. There were certain times that Xavier had picked up on an accent but didn't really think much of it. He continued massaging his boyfriend's back as his gaze remained fixated on Fletcher's eyes. When he had mentioned that he had run into Gerry, Xavier frowned and shook his head. He couldn't imagine what that encounter was like. "You wanting to be here as a child does make sense. This is what you knew and no matter how terrible your parents made you feel, they were still your parents and at that age, there was some part of you that wanted to belong to them. Also, this was your life. I'm sorry that this all happened to you but I'm so glad that Drew had the patience and love to give that they did not."

"That was all you really needed at that time. Like you said, you were like most kids full of energy and wanting to do things. None of that was your fault. I empathize with them maybe feeling older or too old to do it but that's life. There were other ways to go about things and you were the child not them. However they wanted to go about it, they didn't handle things the way a parent should. You didn't deserve that. You got a little surprise with Phoebe and you are about the age your parents were when they had you and you stepped up for that baby by yourself. I know you have a giant village behind you but you made that decision on your own. That's what I mean by that. You have given Phoebe a chance and that makes you --you're not your parent's child. Whatever your father said to you or tried to tell you, if it was negative which by the looks of things, it was--well then...fuck him. He has no right to come into your life so many years later and try to fuck you over." He kept massaging his back. "Do you want me to go saran wrap his toilet? I can change your mom's shampoo and add Nair or something?" He sighed. "Tell your inner child that you're incredibly loved and wanted."

FLETCHER

When Fletcher paused to let Xavier take everything in, he wasn't the least bit surprised to find his boyfriend not only empathizing but coming to his defense for the way he was brought up and how his parents went about things. He gave Xavier's thigh a gentle squeeze, and then a low, "Sweetheart," as Xavier kept going. And then he turned his head to look directly at the younger man. "X." Taking a beat, he raised a hand to the back of Xavier's neck and leaned over to kiss his forehead. "Thank you. I know. And believe me when I say that I've already worked through a lot of this. Drew's a great mentor, plus I've gone to therapy before and I've had a long time to come to terms with how things turned out. Yeah, once in a while I get worried when I think about how I'm forty and Phoebe's not even one yet, but it's okay. Deep down, I know it's okay and that if I fear anything now--you know, aside from that typical parental fear of fucking up your kid--I only worry about missing important things later in her life. But I'm making the best of all the time I have with her. I know damn well I'm not and never will be anything like my parents when it comes to her or any kids in my life. Trust me, if you had seen me when I found out April was having my baby and nearly cost me the chance at being her father?" He shook his head and resumed looked to the floor. "It wasn't a pretty side of me. I'll leave it at that."

He reached for Xavier's hand that had been rubbing his back and held it in his instead. "I don't want you to do anything to them. I don't even want you to meet them. It'd be an honor they don't deserve." Fletcher squeezed his boyfriend's hand and said, "I just wanted you to know what I hadn't told you before, and what I don't really tell anyone for that matter, so you'd understand why I was pissed because yeah, I did run into Gerry just before coming back up here." After another deep breath, he went on with a sense of finality in his voice. "He came by to be nosy among other things. Nothing innocent or polite about it either, and without flattening him on the sidewalk, I told him he can go back to staying the hell outta my life." He wasn't interested in giving a play-by-play of the conversation with Gerry or what the older man said and almost said since it was what pissed him off to begin with.

"Thinking about you, Drew and the kids was what kept me from probably getting arrested on battery charges this morning," he admitted, giving Xavier a sideways glance to take in his reaction to this admission. And then he reminded, "I just... wanted you to know what happened. And to say sorry for the delay with breakfast. I was planning to be back before you woke up. Let the coffee smell wake you and all."

XAVIER

He could hear Fletcher saying his name probably in an attempt to get Xavier to stop fretting and to listen to him but Xavier was too wound up. In fact, the more he built himself up, the more he wanted to reassure his boyfriend that was amazing and all the positive things he had learned about him over the last couple of months. It had felt like someone had pushed a knife into him when he heard of what Fletcher had dealt with as a child. "yeah?" He was just getting started but listened as Fletcher continued. "That's good." It gave him some satisfaction hearing that his boyfriend had already worked through a lot of the trauma inflicted on him. "Well, I'll just have to keep you healthy so you don't miss too much and you're here for all the important things." In his mind, there was a strong emphasis on him being one of the people to keep Fletcher healthy for his daughter. Xavier didn't mean to be presumptuous. If anything, he was being hopeful. He rubbed the back of Fletcher's head, letting his fingers run through his dark tresses. "You two are so lucky to have each other. I am so glad you both got the chance to be in each other's life." He didn't want to think of Fletcher being in a state that wasn't a 'pretty side'. Xavier had become extremely protective.

When Fletcher took his hand, he smiled softly, chuckling a bit at the thought of doing anything to Fletcher's parents. "Just say the word, okay?" He'd never hurt anyone. Most people would probably say he's incapable but thinking of Fletcher having to deal with his parents again especially knowing his father was unkind made his blood boil. "Thank you for telling me. No secrets here, okay? Whatever you or I have to say to each other, we should feel like we can in a non-toxic, loving way." He squeezed Fletcher's hand lovingly. Hearing that thinking about him, Drew and the kids anchored Fletcher made him smile again. "Well, good. We need you here and now in some orange jumpsuit. It'll drown you out..." Xavier chuckled, moving his hand over his face. "Nothing to be sorry about. That's incredibly sweet of you though." He leaned in to kiss Fletcher's cheek. "I am so proud of you for not decking your dad and for being you and for telling me all of this. I know it wasn't easy."

FLETCHER

He gave a smile that didn't touch his eyes when Xavier spoke of keeping him healthy. He'd been working on it already with smoking less weed to be mentally present, and drinking less. And although it wasn't as frequent as before, he was back to going to the gym. His boyfriend's support meant a lot to him. He murmured a, "Thank you, sugar," to himself and lowered his head to rest on Xavier's shoulder.

"Sure thing," Fletcher told him, shutting his eyes as more calm came over him, the more he stayed close to Xavier. "No secrets," he echoed. "Like I said, it just wasn't something I talk about. Drew and I don't even talk about them together anymore. But you know all the significant parts of my life now." His eyes opened as he let out a small, short chuckle. "No, I won't land myself in an orange jumpsuit. Not on purpose anyway." Fletcher lifted his head in time to receive Xavier's kiss to his cheek. In turn, he lifted their joined hands and kissed the back of his boyfriend's. "It wasn't. But you needed to know. I love you for listening, and for caring so much about me." As he tenderly released Xavier's hand, he wrapped his arms around his boyfriend and held him tightly. He loved him for so much more than that but in the moment, it was what he'd said.

XAVIER

Xavier loved the new nickname. Sugar and sweetheart were words he loved hearing it come from Fletcher. Gently, he placed his head on top of his boyfriend's and smiled. "Anytime, mon cher. I'll take care of you." He'd be sure never to let Fletcher down in that promise.

"I know. It was just not relevant. Drew probably wants there to be some sort of relationship between you and your parents. Thank you for telling me. And good! I'll bail you out every time but let's not." Xavier teased with a soft chuckle. He leaned into the embrace and wrapped his arm around Fletcher, attacking the side of his face with a few kisses. "You can't blame me. I'm a sucker for you." He murmured against Fletcher's cheek and then pressed his forehead against his temple. "You're so special, Fletcher." Xavier didn't have to say the rest of the sentence but he hated that his boyfriend's parents couldn't see that. 'Want me to get your bagel ready?" He kissed Fletcher's temple. "Are you originally from Manhattan or somewhere else?"

FLETCHER

"I'm sure Drew wants that. He's a good person like that but it's not going to happen. And I'm gonna talk with him about not sharing all my business with them anymore. I used to not care but after today, no more." He knew Drew would respect those wishes, especially if Fletcher repeated even half of what little Gerry had said. He smiled a little more genuinely for the first time since returning to the hotel room, thanks to Xavier's words and affection. He held his boyfriend for a while longer and then drew back, kissing him on the lips for a moment. And then he pulled apart with a small shake of his head, "It’s okay, I got it. Actually, why don't you tell me what you want and I'll bring you breakfast in bed?" He pecked Xavier's lips and then stood, grabbing the coffee cups to heat up for the both of them. As he fiddled with the microwave, he said, "I was born in The Bronx and my parents moved to Manhattan when I was two." He opened the bagel bag and said, "There's just plain cream cheese and then with the bagels, I got plain, everything, sesame and blueberry."

XAVIER

“He really is a good person.” Xavier agreed with that statement knowing that Drew probably wanted to aid in Fletcher and his parents talking again. “But I am proud of you for wanting to place some boundaries and I know Drew will be receptive and understanding of that. Quite frankly, your parents don’t deserve knowing the happenings in your life especially with your dad trying to come at you.” He returned the kiss and was glad to see Fletcher come down from his initial anger. Gerry didn’t deserve an ounce of it. When his boyfriend stood up to prepare the bagels and heat up their coffee, he smiled, pushing himself back on the bed. “Ooo la la breakfast in bed. And they say romance is dead.” He chuckled, and reached for Fletcher’s hand to kiss it before he went off to get breakfast ready. Xavier listened as he spoke with a small smile on his face. “The Bronx! Ohhh that explains the toughness. I went to the Bronx last year for a show and it the crowd was tough but in the end they had the best laughs, I swear.” Xavier listened to the options with a grin. “Sesame please. What is your favorite kind of bagel?”

FLETCHER

Fletcher knew Drew had good intentions but if Fletcher had the chance to do a trip like this again, he'd have to make it clear to Drew that he didn't want or need either of his parents seeking him out in the city. He'd nodded in agreement with Xavier and had taken another deep breath before kissing him, quietly thankful that the anger he'd felt had dissipated. Xavier had a lot to do with that, he was sure of it. He'd gotten up but paused and looked back at his boyfriend just as his hand was kissed. His eyes said the 'thank you' that his mouth didn't need to voice, just before he resumed readying their breakfast. He chuckled at Xavier's reaction to him being born in The Bronx and joked, "Yeah that's it. They baptize all the babies born there in toughness water, found only in that borough." Taking out the plastic knife and the semi-sliced sesame bagel, he sliced it in half all the way and then opened one of the cream cheese cups to smear on both halves. "Damn, yeah that doesn't surprise me that you won the crowd over in the end. Or were you at that show as part of the audience?" He lightly closed the two halves back on themselves and left it on a napkin while returning to the microwave to take out their coffees and fix them how they both liked theirs. As he did so, he said, "No surprise here but I'm an equal everything bagel fan. Best of all worlds." He set his coffee down in exchange for Xavier's bagel and napkin, and walked over to the bed to present him with his breakfast. "So I guess we'll both be guilty of getting seeds in the bed." He smirked a little and went back to fix up his own bagel and then join his boyfriend, sitting next to and facing him--one leg bent and resting on the bed while the other hung over the edge--and knowing that any mess would be easy enough to brush away or shake off of the bed linens.

XAVIER

Xavier watched as Fletcher prepared his bagel, chuckling at the thought of babies being baptized in 'toughness water'. "I wouldn't be surprised if any of that were true but it all makes sense now. Look at me dating a Bronx boy. What I've learned in my time in New York City is that you're not really from New York if you're from upstate. Bronx people are tough as nails and they have the best Dominican food. Brooklyn is great for authentic Italian and people who think they're tough but are sawft." Xavier chuckled as he tried to imitate the accent. "Queens people are pretty friendly and if you want a good diner, that's where to go and finally Manhattan has some fancy folks who love a good slice of pizza and wine. And we don't talk about Staten Island. Did I get that right?" Xavier smirked and then nodded at Fletcher's question. "I was doing some standup. It's been a long time since I've done any but when I had the chance, it was a lot of fun." He listened to Fletcher with a smile on his face. "Good choice. I like them all but Sesame Seed is a fan fave. Oh, why thank you, sir." He grinned at Fletcher as he took the bagel from him. "It's alright. When do we get to do this anyway?" He took a bite of his bagel and chewed as he happily sat beside his boyfriend. He sincerely hoped that his run-in with his father hadn't ruined the good time they were having. "Mm, this is so good. Nothing like a New York bagel that's for sure."

FLETCHER

Fletcher listened to Xavier while he worked on the breakfast. He chuckled a little bit, "Yeah, I mean geographical stereotypes are a thing. But they exist because there's some level of truth to them." Once he had his own bagel together, he grabbed his coffee, added several packets of sugar and a couple cream cups, and then brought his breakfast over. He sipped on the hot beverage after making himself comfortable, and then said, "Yeah we never do. But we should start trying to make it a thing. Maybe on Sundays." Phoebe wouldn't allow herself to be left out but if they were up early enough, they could possibly get away with a cup of coffee in bed together. He set the cup down on the ground beside the bed and then bit into his bagel, feeling like he was biting into an old memory. He enjoyed it and the bites that followed, and then licked a couple of poppyseeds from his lips. "This is nice." He eyed Xavier for a moment and then leaned forward to peck his lips a few times. "Mmm, and so's this." Stealing one more kiss, he sat up a little straighter and took another bite of his bagel. "Thank you for being the best boyfriend in this relationship." He winked, knowing Xavier was likely to argue and then picked up his cup for another drink of his coffee.

XAVIER

"Amen to that." He licked the cream cheese off his thumb and took another bite of his bagel. Xavier set the bagel down on his thigh and reached for his coffee, blowing on the lid and smiling at the warmth sitting between his hands. "I like that idea. Making Sunday morning breakfasts our thing sounds nice. That would mean more sleepovers which I'm always down for." He smiled at his boyfriend. They had already discussed seeing each other more especially now that Xavier would have more time. They were both going to work on accessibility for their children so they could do a week on and off here and there at each other's home and he loved the idea. Xavier chuckled at the kisses and licked his lips after Fletcher stole another kiss. He then leaned in for another, swiping his tongue against the corner of his boyfriend's lips. "You missed a seed." He sat up and reached for his bagel again. "Don't start that..." His smile grew as he pulled a piece off to toss into his mouth. "You just want to fight so you can have your way with me after. I'm on to you." He then took another sip of his coffee. "Not that I'm complaining but I think we're both pretty solid in this relationship mister let me surprise Xavier with a trip to New York City." He set the half of the bagel that was left and his coffee on the end table and shifted to face Fletcher. "And knowing what I know now about you and your past and the memories that come with being here and you still came here to see me and surprise me to not only see me but tell me you love me..." His gaze lingered. "Well, I'm sprung. If that wasn't already obvious. I could do this for a very, very long time."

FLETCHER

"More sleepovers was always the plan, right?" Fletcher took another bite of his bagel while thinking about them alternating time in each other's homes. He thought about Drew and how a change of environment was good for him. He had his physical therapy appointments, and he was extremely fond of his garden. Fletcher would make sure Drew still got to come back to tend to it whenever they were staying at Xavier's. It might not be a long term plan but it was what he and Xavier were going to explore soon. After a few kisses, he'd taken another bite of bagel and lightly smirked as Xavier came close to his face, expecting another kiss and ending up pleasantly surprised by the quick lick. He smiled and sipped his coffee, only to raise both of his brows in faix innocence, "What?" only to listen to Xavier call him out on exactly what he was doing. "I'm just telling the truth is all. Sheesh. Bite a guy's head off why don't ya?" He grinned a little and set his cup back down, along with what was left of his bagel. After seeing that Xavier's hands were free, Fletcher drew his leg up on the bed and shifted so that he was situated in between Xavier's legs. "I had a compelling reason for coming here. You were more than enough for me to return." His eyes were on his boyfriend's and his hands were running up Xavier's arms as he spoke to him. And then he kissed his forehead and trailed slow kisses to his jaw, neck and throat as he muttered, "Now when you say you could do 'this' for a very, very long time..." Fletcher nuzzled his love's neck while guiding his hands back down Xavier's arms and threading their fingers together. And then he raised his head to meet his gaze again. "Tell me what you mean, exactly."

XAVIER

"Sure are." Xavier was looking forward to this new step in his relationship with Fletcher. Being home meant spending more time with his kids and friends and hopefully his family in London too. He was excited about seeing his boyfriend more often and getting to know Drew better. Xavier had already promised to help Drew with his garden whenever he had a chance and he also wanted to get the opportunity to watch Phoebe grow. It would be an adjustment but he knew it would be for the best for everyone. His kids already adored Fletcher, Emiliana, and Drew and Xavier wanted to see more of that flourish. He grinned at his boyfriend's coy behavior, wondering if he'd ever stop falling in love with him. Was it a perpetual thing? Would he always find new reasons why he keeps falling for the other? Was that the norm when it came to being in love? It sounded almost childish in his head but the questions still existed. He'd never felt this way not even for people he swore he'd marry as a teenager. Everything seemed like child's play in comparison. It was exhilarating and quite frightening. He'd do it all for Fletcher. He'd fight his demons, yell at his probably very terrifying father, help raise his child, and install every necessary accessible feature for Drew in his house and in the Van Hall's. He'd do it out of love and appreciation. He'd fallen harder than he expected. "Just being observant." Xavier laughed but his eyes remained softened as his gaze fixated on his boyfriend. Fletcher's gentle touches and kisses relaxed him, turning him into a puddle of putty. A content sigh escaped his lips as he enjoyed the kisses against his skin. Xavier closed his eyes as he smiled when he felt Fletcher's lips against his throat. It was one his weak spots and his boyfriend knew that. He'd already lost his train of thought but recovered the moment Fletcher looked up at him again. He laughed, bowing his head bashfully before raising his gaze again. There were many ways he could answer such a simple question. "This. For starters, all of that." He couldn't help but laugh again at how little sense his answer made. "Everything. Us, this, life. I could do life with you for a very, very long time." Xavier took one hand so that he could cup Fletcher's face. His thumb grazed the grooves of his nose and then his cheekbones, settling at the apple of his cheeks. "Sleepovers, finding new places to fuck, making you laugh, making you happy. Taking away the bad shit and parking it elsewhere in return for a lot of good shit. You marking me with your bites and scratches and yes, tattoos." He leaned in to kiss him. "Waking up next to you, breakfast together, Drew telling me stories, the kids making fun of their very much in love dad, Phoebe laughing at my jokes that she doesn't understand. I think she thinks my face is just funny." He kissed Fletcher's temple and then nuzzled his face for a bit. "I don't want to do this with anyone else. I'm reaalll good here."

FLETCHER

A throaty chuckle rose from Fletcher when he heard Xavier's answer to his question. And he continued to listen to him. His words penetrated his heart and pumped it up to where it filled his rib cage. He rested into Xavier's hand on his cheek and met his kiss. The way Xavier described their relationship and their lives together--the way their families were melding so beautifully together really had been such an incredible thing. "Funny because I don't want you to do this with anyone else either." Grinning softly, Fletcher's arms slipped around Xavier to hold him close, and then his lips relaxed as he let out a content sigh. "I'm good here too. I love you so much, it's wild. And I love the life we're building together. Everything you said about us and our families? That's exactly how I feel. You, Winter and Henry make my life better. I know you all do that for Phoebe and Drew too. And I know Emiliana loves and adores all of you too." He kissed Xavier's shoulder and then lifted his head, loosening his hold a bit to meet Xavier's eyes again. "But I love and adore you the most. I don't have the poetic words that you do but I'm glad you kissed me that night at the gala. You put yourself on my mind from that night, on, and you planted yourself in my heart."

XAVIER

This closeness to Fletcher felt right. Xavier had always wanted this with someone even when he joked that he didn't before going on the island. He had admired his friend's relationships, seeing how happy everyone was and how they all supported one another. To have one of the only relationships that had failed out of his reality television stint stung and while he wasn't purposely looking for someone when he decided to kiss Fletcher, he was glad he did. Thinking back on it, he couldn't remember why he felt bold enough to do it. For whatever reason, it made sense. "Good. I'm yours for as long as you'll have and want me." Hearing that Fletcher loved him again and again and with such confidence and conviction made his heart soar. He felt mushy all over and was glad that he had succeeded at making Fletcher feel better. "I love the life we're building together too. I know it's been a short couple of months but it feels longer yet not. I love the feeling of being comfortable with you and still having the opportunity to learn new things about who you are. I end up falling in love with all of you and I've never felt that way about anyone before." He laughed softly and shook his head before pulling his boyfriend in for a tight embrace. "You say I'm the poetic one. I told you, I think I've had a crush on you for a while now probably before that boo bash if I'm being honest. I don't know what gave me any courage to kiss you that night but I had to. I'm glad I did too." He pulled back and smiled at Fletcher. "I said for a very, very long time. I mean forever. I know that's a scary thought but that's how I feel and hopefully, that's how it'll be." It was a tiny promise that could be translated into many things. Xavier wasn't trying to frighten Fletcher or talk about major future life plans but he simply wanted it known that no one else could exist for him or take Fletcher's place.

FLETCHER

Fletcher listened to Xavier some more and gladly returned the embrace when he was pulled toward his boyfriend. Loving his daughter and his uncle had been one thing. Falling in love with Winter and Henry had been special. But finding love with Xavier was something else indescribable, even though he'd tried putting it to words just a moment ago. While they were close, he'd kissed him on his neck again and then met his eyes again once Xavier pulled back. He smiled lazily as he told him, "And you're still the poetic one here. One of these days I'm gonna pay you a compliment or just say something flat out true about you and you'll accept it for the truth that is is." He stole a peck on Xavier's lips and then listened to him some more. His heart leapt in his chest while he threaded their fingers together. His gaxr turned languid as he echoed, "Hopefully, that's how it'll be." He gently squeezed their interlocked fingers and leaned in to rest his forehead to his boyfriend's for a bit of comfortable silence. When he spoke up again, Fletcher had tilted his head and nuzzled his nose along Xavier's cheek. "I hope you're done with your breakfast because I really want to make love to you right now." They'd done tons of fucking the previous day (and night) but he wanted to go slow and be more attentive to Xavier's entire body than usual.

XAVIER

He never wanted to hear of anyone hurting Fletcher again and while that was a naive thought, Xavier knew that just meant he was hopelessly in love with his boyfriend. Knowing that the conversation that had started sour was turning into something positive and loving gave him relief and made him happy. He wanted nothing more than to kiss Fletcher everywhere, thank him a million times for surprising him in New York City, for getting them breakfast, for letting Xavier in. That meant more to him than anything else. "I do accept it I just want it known that you're also those things and I love you for it." So much had changed for him in a year. He had left a toxic relationship, had fostered the most incredible children, and was now promising forever to a man he had kissed impulsively one night. He closed his eyes when Fletcher nuzzled his cheek and he smiled softly at the intimacy. He wondered for a few seconds what that'd be like. Making love sounded so beautiful coming from his lips. "I'm done with breakfast." He grinned at his boyfriend, having searched for something sweet or adorable to say and coming up with nothing. Instead, Xavier leaned in to kiss Fletcher's cheek before murmuring. "I love you." He kissed his earlobe and then whispered, "Je t'aime" before cupping his face and pulling him down on top of him.

#Xavier #Big Talks para #Flavier things

2 notes · View notes

xaviernottheprofessor · 6 months ago

Text

Concrete Jungle (where dreams are made of) | Flavier

Featuring: Xavier and Fletcher ( @fletchervanhall) with mentions of others Location: NYC, Empire State Building, Millenium Hilton Hotel Time Frame: Afternoon, April 25, 2024 Notes: Fletcher surprises Xavier in NYC and tells him something really important!

FLETCHER

Fletcher shouldered a duffle bag while walking into the hotel DJ told him Xavier was staying at. There was a small prickle of anxiousness sitting in his chest--partly because he had never done something this grand for someone he was in a relationship with, partly because he was literally across the country from his daughter and uncle, and partly because it was the first time since he was a teen that he was back in New York. Fletcher had yet to tell Xavier that he was from The Big Apple or that his parents lived here. As much as he'd let Xavier in, there were still a few things he hadn't shared about himself. Most were just talents of his but these intertwined facts of his hometown and parents were the biggest ones. While Fletcher knew that would change sooner or later, for now, he was focusing on surprising Xavier. He'd been doing his best not to give the prickling much attention if he could help it because he wanted this. He wanted to come and surprise Xavier, and he knew that his boyfriend deserved thoughtful gestures like this.

While he knew the front desk clerk wouldn't give him a key card--least of all to the room of someone of significance like Xavier--DJ told him the room number. So after giving a call home in the lobby to Drew and Emiliana to check in, Fletcher proceeded to the room. Taking the elevator up and walking to the door, Fletcher knocked, placed an index finger over the peephole and said, "Room service, Mr. Mitchell," in a voice entirely different from his own.

XAVIER

Xavier was half-way through a big writing week for the season finale of SNL. He wouldn't have an entire summer to do nothing but he'd have more time at home which made him happy. Even with that known, this week *felt* difficult. Being away from his kids, his boyfriend and his friends was a lot at times and while this would be his last week for a while, Xavier still hated it. He was glad that he was honest with his director about his plans to be home more but it still did create such a void when he had to get on that plane. He had spread out some sketches he had written along with index cards containing cast members names. He wanted to distribute material fairly but also wanted to keep in mind who was more popular. Marcello was deserving of more sketches because of that. He stacked up the remaining cards and left them to the side before moving his papers to join them. His eyes had been burning from staring too long at his pages that Xavier needed a break. Winter had sent him a playlist to his Spotify and he pressed play as he plopped down on the couch. He had a nice Facetime conversation with kids a few minutes prior to start his writing. Xavier hadn't heard much from Fletcher but he assumed his boyfriend was probably working. Wondering if he should order something to eat, Xavier began to aimlessly scroll through Reels when he heard the knock on the door.

Hearing the odd voice on the other side of the door, Xavier wondered if this was some hoax. His co-workers tended to do things like that. "Room service?" He muttered and stood up, making his way toward the door. "I didn't order any..." He tried looking through the peephole and when he couldn't see who it was on the other side, he unlocked his door and opened it. Nothing could have prepared him for seeing Fletcher standing there and happiness quickly replaced his perplexed expression. He smiled brightly as he opened the door wider for him. "Baby...I--what are you doing here?"

And before he could get an answer, Xavier practically tackled Fletcher, pulling him in for a warm embrace as he showered his boyfriend with kisses. "Wait, are you ok? Everything ok?" He took his hand to guide him inside the room. "You're--here!" Xavier chuckled and pulled him back to his frame.

FLETCHER

Fletcher hadn't dropped his hand until the door swung open. His lips tugged up in his crooked smirk and then a toothy grin. "Hi. Hello. Greetings. Hola. Salutations," Fletcher replied to Xavier's shock. He stumbled back when Xavier threw himself at him and chuckled from all the kisses. "Damn, I should find ways to surprise you more often." He hadn't gotten past the doorway but held Xavier's hand and squeezed it. "Babe, yes, I'm fine. Everyone's fine. I just came to spend a couple days with you. I thought I'd surprise you." He slipped the duffle bag off his shoulder and let it set on the floor so he could properly hug his boyfriend. Fletcher kissed Xavier on his forehead and then said, "I missed you, and you looked so sad when you left. So I'm just here for two nights and then I fly back. I know you're working so I wont be bugging you with going places and doing a lot. I figured it would be nice to just be near you when I can, and maybe sleep or bum around here when you have to go to any meetings or anything like that."

XAVIER

Xavier let out a quiet laugh, still completely shocked by Fletcher's appearance. All he could do is attack him with kisses as he had done and stare at him incredulously. "You've got to give me a second here to make sure I'm not dreaming or hallucinating because anything is possible on the little sleep I've gotten out here." He loved surprises and he loved it even more that Fletcher had been the one to do this for him. He sighed out of relief learning that everything was fine and his smile returned quickly as he relished in his boyfriend's embrace. He pulled back a bit so that he could cup Fletcher's face and her smiled widely. "I missed you too and consider me pleasantly surprised. No one's ever...well I...I'm just speechless that's all." He listened to how long Fletcher would be in New York, feeling even happier knowing he'd be flying out to California a day after. "Thank you. This is...I rather like this." His cheeks were burning at the confession. He was usually better versed than that but Xavier was still happily taken aback by the gesture. He kissed Fletcher's lips and smiled. "Sleep. Sleep is so good." He beamed at the thought of Fletcher getting some rest while he was out here too. "I'm so happy to see you. I *was* sad. How transparent of me..." With a smile pulling at the corner of his lips, he remained in his boyfriend's arms before taking his hand. "Come in. I'll show you around my boring room which just got a touch of glitz with you here." he pulled Fletcher inside, taking his duffel bag and placing it on the couch. "This is it. Where the magic happens. It's why I get paid the big bucks. I get a microwave and telly too. Oh, and a fridge for leftovers." He chuckled. "The bathroom is to the left and a little kitchenette over to the right over there. Are you thirsty or hungry?"

FLETCHER

"I could pinch you if it'd help you believe I'm really here," Fletcher said, bringing a hand low on Xavier's butt, priming to pinch him there. He listened and planted a kiss on Xavier's temple and then his lips, slowly returning some of the kisses Xavier showered him with a moment ago. He caught what Xavier stopped himself from saying and then gently pressed his nose to Xavier's cheek, whispering, "If the roles were reversed, I know you'd do it for me." He felt the growing warmth on his boyfriend's skin and smiled before kissing him there too. He held him for a little while and then walked with him to look around the hotel room. He chuckled a bit as well and then said, "It’s a nice room." He took a seat on the edge of the bed and said, "I ate a sandwich on the way over here, but I ate it within the first hour of my flight. Are *you* hungry? Have you taken a break to eat?"

XAVIER

"I say you pinch me anyway." He grinned playfully, his smile never leaving his face as he relished in all the kisses given to him. Xavier places his arms on Fletcher's shoulders and when his boyfriend whispered, he nodded. "Definitely." And while that was true, that Xavier would do the same for Fletcher, it still meant so much to him that he had done this for him. As Xavier showed off his boring room, he smiled listening to Fletcher. "Uh..." He looked over to his work, realizing he only had hotel coffee and some eggs in his stomach. "Don't kill me." He moved to gather his pages into a pile and hide them in book bag before throwing that into the closet. "I've had some awful coffee and some off my omelette from this morning. I should really take a break now and since the most amazing, gorgeous, man has stepped into my hotel room, I really want to take a break with him. Want to grab something at the deli? We can walk around. I'll take you to the Empire State. Let you have your way with me later, you know the usual." He grinned as he looked in the mirror to make sure he didn't look like hell and applied some lotion to his face, hands and arms followed by a spritz of cologne.

FLETCHER

Fletcher didn't wait for Xavier to backtrack before he closed his thumb and index on his boyfriend's ass. He tenderly pecked Xavier's lips a few times and then moved to the bed. He heard the hesitant response and lifted his brows at his boyfriend. And then his face fell to non-amusement while watching Xavier hurriedly gather up his papers. "Oh I'm not gonna kill you. But I *am* gonna make you take a break now. A proper one as you'd say." His eyes stayed on Xavier, following him about as he freshened himself up. Fletcher stood and stretched his arms while walking up to stand behind Xavier. "That sounds like a good idea to me. All of it. Hell, I'd even be fine skipping the trip to the Empire State and going right to the usual," he half-joked, wrapping his arms around Xavier from behind and bending his head to inhale the freshly-applied cologne. "Maybe even skipping the walk too now..."

XAVIER

A soft chuckle fell from his lips from the pinch and Xavier's smile widened at Fletcher's words. "A proper break it is. I'm done with writing for the day anyway. My eyes are going to fall out at this rate." he watched his boyfriend from the mirror and smirked playfully. "Empire State? What's that? Never heard of her." He smiled at the reflection that now included Fletcher and lowered his arms to pull Fletcher's and tighten the grip on his waist. "Mm, boy if you don't stop..." He chuckled and lolled his head to the side so that his boyfriend could get better access to the new scent. "I am as incorrigible as you are, you know that..." He turned slowly, still in Fletcher's arms. "There's always room service...and you're *soo* tired from your flight to walk, I'm sure." Xavier reached up to run his fingers through Fletcher's hair. "It's only been a couple of days but I've missed a lot about you, love."

FLETCHER

"Well we don't want that," Fletcher replied of Xavier's eyes falling out. He held his boyfriend from behind and smiled, kissing his neck and enjoying the enticing scent of his cologne on his skin. He smirked at the way Xavier spoke of the Empire State Building and then shamelessly grinned despite his, "What?" full of false innocence. "Mm, no you're definitely worse, but believe me, I'm not complaining in the slightest." He righted his bent head when Xavier turned around to face him. "I've missed you too. And truthfully, I wouldn't mind a little walk. I'm sure you'd like to get out of this room since you've been working so hard. I disrupted your day so whatever you wanna do today, count me in." He shut his eyes, drawing in a deep breath while enjoying the familiar feeling of Xavier's fingers in his hair, and then he let out a content sigh. "Yeah... whatever you want to do."

XAVIER

“Definitely not,” Xavier laughed softly, watching his boyfriend through the mirror as his eyes rolled back for a moment while Fletcher kissed his neck. He then smirked, his eyes opening again. “Mmm I don’t know. You’re pretty bad too.” He chuckled thinking how they both had a tendency of indulging in one another whenever they wanted caring very little about where they were. They’d always find a way. When they were facing each other, Xavier snapped out of his naughty but pleasant thoughts and smiled. “We’ll go for a walk and we’ll order some room service for supper.” Xavier grinned , watching Fletcher’s reaction. God, he loved this man. He took advantage of his boyfriend’s eyes being closed and kissed his lips. “When we get back I’ll do what I want to do.” He murmured against Fletcher’s mouth and then kissed him again. “See? I have some kind of restraint. It’s quite hard but…” he laughed. “It’s there.”

FLETCHER

“Not as bad," Fletcher argued in between kisses. He certainly did lean into his emotional, intellectual and physical attractions to Xavier. And unless he was absolutely dead on his feet, he never turned his boyfriend down. Hearing what Xavier proposed for them to do, Fletcher nodded, "Sounds good," and then pecked Xavier's lips. While enjoying the small caressing of his hair, he'd been caught by surprise at the kiss but responded in kind in a split second. "That type of restraint will get you into some trouble," he chuckled after opening his eyes. He grinned a little, his lips tugged up a little higher on one side. "Get your shoes on, babe. Let's go take this walk."

XAVIER

“Ehhh you say tomato…” he laughed, teasing his boyfriend, still in some disbelief that he was there with him. He grinned at Fletcher’s reaction to the surprise kiss. “I’m a troublemaker but you love it.” Xavier pressed a quick kiss against Fletcher’s neck and then reluctantly pulled away to grab his sneakers from his bed side. He slipped them on and then grabbed his jacket and wallet. “In the spirit of surprises, I actually have one for you. I was going to save for when I got home but since you’re here, I can tell you.” He took Fletcher’s hand in his opened the door to the hotel room. As they walked out, Xavier gave his boyfriend’s hand a gentle squeeze. “This is the season finale we are working on which you knew but what you didn’t know isssss drum roll, babe…” he grinned and began walking backwards so that Xavier could look at Fletcher. “I’m going to be home for six months.” He smiled widened and he stopped to lean against the wall beside the elevator. “I just have to be in NYC for a special in June and that’s it. I have no big jobs here and I’ll be focusing more on little things coming up domestically. So…” he stood up straight when the elevator arrived, “you’ll get to see this mug more often.”

FLETCHER

"And you say 'toe-*mah*-toe'," Fletcher quipped with his version of a British accent on the produce item. "Damn right you are. And yes, I do." He lifted his brows at Xavier saying he had a surprise for him. Fletcher was about to open his mouth to say something ahead of this, but he closed his mouth and walked out of the hotel room with Xavier--his own phone and wallet still in his pockets. He listened to his boyfriend and glanced just ahead of them to make sure the hallway stayed clear for his backwards strides. His blinked twice as a smile slowly spread across his lips. "No shit?" Reaching past Xavier, he pressed the 'down' button on the elevator and then said, "That's the best news I could've gotten today. Next to my flights all being on time." He flashed a grin at his little joke and then wrapped his arms around Xavier. "I'm glad you'll be around more for a long while, sweetheart." As he drew back to look into Xavier's eyes, he said, "It'll give me more chances to not only show but tell you I love you."

XAVIER

“Are you making fun of me, Rizz?” He smirked, super excited about the news he just broke out and even more excited about Fletcher’s reaction. “Yes shit.” He chuckled and shook his head at his own words. Getting to see his kids and Fletcher and his friends more made him so happy. “I’m glad you like the news. And when I get back, you can help me look for a family car. Something we can put a car seat in and that Drew will feel comfortable in so I can take him places too.” He already had so many plans. He wanted to help Drew with his garden, help his boyfriend more with the baby, take Winter and Henry out more and spend time with everyone. “Me too.” His lips pulled up into a wide grin upon hearing his pet name and at the little joke his boyfriend made. He’d never grow tired of any of this. He was convinced. He wrapped his arms around Fletcher too and Xavier kept his gaze on Fletcher, looking up at him full of joy. His grin melted into a small smile, his lips twitching slightly before he let a soft chuckle fall from him. “You love me, huh?” Xavier whispered before the ding of the elevator went off. He was all smiles, his teeth taking across his bottom lip as he walked into the elevator with his boyfriend. “I love you too. *so much*.”

FLETCHER

"Some people are so touchy," Fletcher easily fired back with the movie quote. He laughed a bit with Xavier and listened some more. "A family car, huh?" Hearing some of the reasons Xavier wanted one had a warmth spreading from Fletcher's hart, out to every orifice of his body. The way that their two worlds were melding was somthing Fletcher hadn't expected and not at the pace it was happening. But he didn't want to fight it. He had no real reason to. He knew how he felt about Xavier and his kids, and he knew Xavier's feelings for him and his family. When the elevator doors slid open, Fletcher headed inside the lift with his boyfriend. "I love you," he clearly repeated, pressing the first floor button and then taking hold of Xavier's other hand as well. "I know you do. I couldn't be more humbled to be loved by you, X." His eyes were fixed on the younger man as he said, "I guess I could've waited until we were on our walk to tell you - make it a little more romantic like you deserve. But I promised I would tell you as soon as I knew." It was a promise he'd largely made to himself and he was committing to it. He kissed Xavier's forehead and then dipped his chin to kiss his lips. "I love you, Xavier Mitchell."

XAVIER

Xavier laughed at Fletcher's quick response, loving the fact that his boyfriend knew the reference. "A family car. If I can get a 7 seater, imagine all the trips we can all take over the summer." He didn't know how to express the fact that Fletcher's confession had made his entire body light up and that he was feeling a pleasant warmth course over his body. He took his boyfriend's hand and listened intently. He has never felt this way toward anyone. Xavier found himself feeling excited about future plans. Long-term future plans that might have scared him to even think about in the past. He smiled as his boyfriend spoke with great vulnerability and genuine intent. Xavier appreciated the openness and the fact that Fletcher had waited until it felt right for him. "What do you mean? This is romantic. It's coming from you and I know it's from the heart and that is what makes it memorable and romantic to me." His heart literally soared and Xavier returned his boyfriend's kiss. "I love you. I could hear that over and over again, you know. I don't think it'll get old. I'll take care of you, Fletcher. I'll take care of your heart." He'd never hurt him. Xavier was his. Glad that no one decided to get on the elevator, Xavier kissed his boyfriend on the lips once more before they got to the first floor. As they walked out, he kept his hand in Fletcher's. "You know, it's funny. Going back to when I first kissed you and how we had our reservations because of our personal lives and everything...now all I can think about is how we came into each other's lives for a reason." He held the door for Fletcher and smiled as he walked out after him. "Thank you for telling me. When it felt right for you. It makes it even more special." They walked hand in hand.

FLETCHER

"You're adorably thoughtful, you know that? A seven-seater sounds like you're gonna be looking at a minivan or a big SUV. Do either of those seem like something you're interested in?" Fletcher knew they'd talked about Disneyland already and figured that was going to be quite the trip in itself for the summer. A new car and a trip for both of their families sounded like a full Summer to him, but he could be wrong. But he and Xavier had time to sort out Summer plans for themselves, their kids and Drew. For now, h was letting himself feel the bit of jitters that he wasn't showing but came with him telling Xavier out loud for the first time that he loved him. He meant it and he was glad that he'd said the words to his boyfriend. "You give me a lot of leeway, sweetheart," he replied, gently disagreeing on how romantic a gesture he'd executed with his first time telling Xavier that he loved him. "Well you're going to hear it over and over from me. Taking care of my heart's more than I could ask for. I love you and I'll do all I can to take care of yours. You're nurturing to me and my family and I can only hope to be that to you and yours whenever you guys let me." Fletcher walked through the door, smiling as he thought back to their first kiss--how unexpected it was, how it completely caught him off guard and how he may have had mixed feelings at the time but was quickly drawn to how kissable Xavier's pillowy lips were. He continued holding Xavier's hand as they walked out of the hotel and down the street. His eyes went to the younger man, and then the building he pointed out - a small smile appearing at the kiss to his knuckles, followed by the sight of the NBC logo and knowing what it meant. And then he circled back to Xavier's question. "I knew before I got here. I've never jumped on a plane for someone before in my life. Booking that flight? Yeah... I knew you had my heart and I wouldn't be leaving San Francisco to come here if I didn't love you."

XAVIER

"Stahppp Adorable I am not but yeah! I'll even get a pair of New Balances and a plaid shirt with cargo short. I gotta get a hat that says *ask me about my dad jokes*." Xavier squeezed Fletcher's hand and chuckled. "What do you think? I can make an SUV sexy." Xavier was already enjoying the idea of being able to mesh both families together for a trip. Ever since Disney was mentioned, he had been filled with excitement. "We're going to have these little fights all the time, I think." Xavier smiled widely. Thinking back to their first kiss, it was one of those times when his extroverted confidence paid off for him. At the moment, Xavier felt that if Fletcher decked him, he'd be valid but everything that happened after continued to pleasantly surprise him and it was pretty clear that they couldn't get enough of one another. "Well, now that I'll be home more, maybe we can arrange our schedules so that I can bring the kids with me to your home and you guys can come by more often like we had discussed. We can stay at each other's places here and there as long as Drew is taken care of. He's important to me so I'm always going to consider his safety, time, and feelings. And Winter and Henry already love Phoebe and spending time with all of you. It's very humbling to see how easily our families do that." Xavier continued walking toward the Empire State. There was a grill and deli shop a few stores down and he was hoping to get some food and goodies on the way back to add to whatever they wanted from room service. Fletcher's explanation made Xavier smile and even blush all over again. "And you say it wasn't romantic. I don't care what we were doing at the time, that's pretty grand gesture of the Rom Com variety. Look out Ryan Gosling...my man's got them all beat." He glanced over to Fletcher and winked. "No one has ever done anything that big for me. Ever. I'll never forget it."

FLETCHER

"Oh Jesus, yeah way to suck all the adorable out of it with that mental image," Fletcher joked. "And if you get that hat, just know it's not one I'll be buying for you. But you *are* for damn sure adorable. Period. End of story." He chuckled a little, "I think it'd be more of a challenge with a minivan than an SUV but in this case, the man's gonna make all the sexiness - not the car. And yeah, we probably are gonna have these little fights. You'll be wrong each time you're denying that you're adorable or cute or anything else that's true about yourself." Time had flown so quickly from when their first kiss occurred. And so much had changed between them from before then and after it as well. He was glad for the changes that followed their first kiss, namely because it led to them being where they were now.

"I like the sound of that. And I love you for taking Drew into consideration. Phoebe too, but she's more adaptable to whatever we decide to do." He smiled a little while thinking of his little girl being back home, and he hoped that she wasn't giving Drew or Emiliana too much trouble. "When I get back, I'll get the spare room arranged. If Winter and Henry don't mind sleeping in the same room, I can put an air mattress in there, or I can set one of them up in the living room so they don't have to worry about sharing space with Phoebe and think on being quieter or shit like that when you guys are over." He thought about investing in a cot or something that might be more comfortable than an air mattress. He was thankful as well for how well their families blended already. His eyes only briefly wandered around their vaguely familiar surroundings before they landed back on Xavier. "I'll hav to add some sorta comedy to it to make sure I cover the 'com' part of this rom-com you've got us in." He snorted at the mention of Ryan Gosling. "You're more than deserving of the gestures, big and small, sweetheart. Don't ever forget that either."

XAVIER

"Gotta get the daddy look going!" He smirked at Fletcher's words and feigned disappointment, placing his free hand on his chest. "I'd have to get it stitched at one of those places at the mall because no way that hat exists." Xavier chuckled, unable to keep his happiness hidden. "I won't argue with you because you're in love with me so you'll probably win most arguments." He laughed, every so often leaning into his boyfriend as they walked. "Well, I want you to go shopping with me next week . I trust your taste and I'm super impulsive so you'd be my anchor." Xavier smiled. He knew that they balanced each other well that way. "So I'll be a sexy daddy in my SUV dating the sexiest daddy. I love how confident you are in my erroneous behavior." He kissed Fletcher's cheek quickly. "We should go to the Brooklyn Bridge tomorrow after I drop off my pages to Lorne and I give you a tour. You'd love Brooklyn. We can hit up some food spots."

"Of course. I know you are a big part of his life and betterment, and I wouldn't take you away or anything like that. If anything, I want to help you and him as much as I can especially now that I'm free as a bird for a few months." He smiled when Fletcher spoke. They were nearing their destination and Xavier had to add, "You know, darling. Your face just lights up every time you talk about her. It's the sweetest bloody thing. I adore it. And Winter and Henry won't mind it at all. The first few months they moved into my house, they shared a room because it felt safer for them. They share a very unique and precious bond. They're super adaptable so whatever I can do to help you figure it out, I will. I have two spare rooms now so I can make a mini nursery for Phoebe for when she comes over with you. Winter will have a field day with that. She's really into interior design like my mum. " He chuckled after Fletcher spoke. "I think you've got the com part covered. I think you're pretty funny."

Once they arrived at the Empire State, Xavier pressed another kiss against his boyfriend's cheek once more. "Thank you. I don't know if you know how much that means to me. You being so thoughtful and all. I'm very lucky." They entered the building and Xavier showed off his City Pass and SAG ID. The young man at the ticket booth seemed thrilled to see a celebrity come up to the booth but kept himself as reserved as possible. "Enjoy your afternoon at the Empire State Building, sir." Xavier nodded and tucked away his pass and ID into his wallet before taking Fletcher's hand again to walk toward the elevator "This is my first time going to the top. I've done the exhibits and I've eaten downstairs. I hear the view is phenomenal."

FLETCHER

"Next thing I know, you're gonna be walking around in sandals with socks on. And we both know you've got better fashion sense than all of that." Fletcher wouldn't consider himself the most fashionable person in the world but he knew how to dress well enough when the occasion called for it. Xavier, on the other hand, regularly had impeccable fashion which was something Fletcher found attractive about him. "Well there's no fun in you already deciding I'm gonna win the arguments. Besides, now that just makes me wanna start stupid shit I know isn't true to see how far you let that go." He smiled a bit and then said, "I can do that. Whether you just wanna look and do some behind the wheel tests or if you wanna drive off the lot in something, I'll be there to help you make sure it's not some suburban-type of car." He chuckled, "I'm gonna remember you said that you love that. And it's not erroneous, it's facts." He listened and nodded a bit, "Whatever you wanna do, as long as I'm not getting in your way."

Fletcher knew one of the other things he loved about Xavier was how understanding he'd been when it came to Drew and the role Fletcher played in his life. And he was grateful to Xavier wanting to help him, even if he himself didn't know what that looked like just yet. "Thank you," was all he could tell him for the time being, and he did. So after lifting their joined hands and planting a kiss on the back of his boyfriend's. Fletcher listened to Xavier some more and cracked another gentle smile. He'd also been happy to hear that the arrangement of them dividing their time between each other's homes seemed doable. "Is that what Winter wants to do when she graduates? Interior design?" He gave Xavier a light and good-natured nudge when complimented that he thought he was funny.

Walking inside of the building had Fletcher glancing around but his eyes caught sight of the badge and then arched a brow. He'd still been following Xavier to the elevator when he asked, "Uh-huh. So, uh, wait, the badge you showed. Is it also some Empire State VIP pass here?"

XAVIER

““Oh no I stop at sandals with socks. “ Xavier grinned, glancing over to his boyfriend. Looking good helped with making him feel good and Xavier did his best to live by that. He was smiling the whole time Fletcher spoke knowing damn well that he was going to let him win arguments easily and was simply teasing. His smile turned into something a little more devilish and he wiggled his brows as if challenging or taking the challenge of keeping it up only to chuckle. “Don’t worry, we will still argue.” Xavier glanced over lovingly every chance he could. He still couldn’t believe that Fletcher had come out to see him. This was a grand gesture in Xavier’s book and he’d always remember this. He was glad to hear that Fletcher was willing to go with him to start some car shopping. In truth, he knew he wanted the McLaren but a family car would be incredibly different and he was excited to shop with Fletcher especially when he wanted him to have a set of keys in case he needed a bigger car. “Thanks, babe. Well got to Volvo for starters when I get back.” He chuckled, loving Fletcher’s feisty spirit. It was just one of Xavier’s favorite things about him. “You’re not getting in my way. You’re saving me from boredom” he had already finished most of his pages and was ready to assign skits. The rest of his stay would be easy and then he’d be home free.

He smiled at his boyfriend, wanting nothing more than to always reassure him that he was going to be there not only for Fletcher but every aspect of his life and that included Drew and Phoebe. His kids also loved them and that made Xavier so happy. “Always.” He smiled at the kiss against his hand. “I think she wants to get into design at some capacity whether it’s interior or fashion. She keeps telling me she wants to look into fashion and design schools so that’s what we will be doing next year.” He chuckled at the nudge, genuinely thinking Fletcher was hysterical and loving that it was just for him sometimes.

Xavier smiled and handed him the city pass and SAG ID unsure which one Fletcher was talking about. “Most people come to the 82 floor. You need reservations for the top deck and an Express Pass to skip the lines. The City Pass is to get easy admission and the ID helps with skipping the lines without a reservation. Usually it’s insane but we’re going to the 102 floor and we will get a panoramic view of New York City. Also, it’ll be more private.” Xavier pressed a kiss against Fletcher’s lips and headed toward the elevator to the top deck where someone was waiting for them to take them up.

FLETCHER

"Well thank fuck there's a line," Fletcher quipped and smirked to his boyfriend. He'd probably float the idea to Henry and Winter to get him some sort of 'dad'-related baseball cap for Father's Day though. "I'm sure we will. Besides, wasn't there a talk about great makeup sex when it came to arguing?" He gave a tiny grin at that and briefly thought about his and Xavier's relationship, mostly about how loving Xavier was in every way possible. While Fletcher didn't have much in the way of meaningful dating history, he'd been with enough people to honestly say that Xavier was the sweetest person he had ever met. He was both strong and gentle at the same time, funny and emotional, thoughtful and easygoing. He was a devoted friend, a wonderful lover, and he made Fletcher feel like it was a true honor not only being in his company but being his boyfriend. He thought about this as they walked and conversed with each other. "Volvo huh? Alright, sticking with the speedy, foreign luxury cars, I see." He winked, knowing full well that while Volvo was foreign to both of them, the McLaren cars were very much British. He chuckled a little, "Boredom? Do you have some other kind of meeting or something before you have to fly back?" Fletcher would only be there for one more night after this evening, but he'd come in the middle of Xavier's NYC stint.

Listening on some more, he took in what Xavier was saying about Winter's design interests. "As long as she keeps knowing she can do anything she sets her mind to and puts in the work for. She'll be great regardless, and she's got plenty of time to explore her options." And when Xavier handed over the two cards, Fletcher realized he'd seen the SAG ID and thought it was what Xavier had shown to gain them access inside. He'd been vaguely familiar with the city passes from his childhood but hadn’t seen one, let alone held one since he was a kid and his class had taken a field trip to the American Museum of Natural History. He remembered his dad being convinced Fletcher would need one while his mom argued that they would just need to send Fletcher with a one-time discounted payment along with the permission slip. Fletcher's dad bought the city pass anyway, only to learn that in the end, his wife was right. Fletcher had been listening to Xavier while staring at the city pass and thinking on the memory, only to mentally swat it away. Returning fully to the present, he handed both badges back to his boyfriend as they rode the elevator up. He met and returned the kiss and stared around at the elevator's interior. "How many times did you say you've been here before? This is your first time to the very top, right?"

XAVIER

"I mean, even I have limitations." Xavier chuckled knowing his line existed way before sandals and socks. At the mention of makeup sex, he couldn't help but smile wider and give his boyfriend a playful sideways glance. "Uh, yes. Main reason I'll pick arguments with you so can have your way with me after and vice-versa." He kept his voice low just for Fletcher. He wasn't argumentative at all and while he didn't mind conflict, it rarely came looking for him. Jeremy was probably the most troublesome person he had met. Going to therapy has helped Xavier with effectively sharing his feelings and conflict resolution. While arguing was healthy and he agreed that is was, he didn't think it would ever get to the point of being explosive however if it did, he had the tools to resolve things. He loved Fletcher and with that came understanding and patience that would help their relationship flourish. He laughed at the Volvo comment, nodding at Fletcher. "I love nice things, what can I say?" he then added, "And it's a super safe brand so I feel like it would be perfect with all the precious cargo I'll be carrying." He smiled, thinking on his work week. "I mostly have to make sure I write all the pages assigned which I have and assign them. I'm due to perform on Saturday obviously but from tomorrow until then, I'm free after I drop off my pages unless I'm pulled into a meeting to discuss anything."

"I want Henry and Winter to follow their dreams, whatever they are and I want to help them accomplish that. Winter has a lot of potential. She's so bright and so good at what she does. She plays around with her school uniform all the time. She tells me how her classmates constantly ask for a 'Winter Original'." Xavier beamed proudly as he thought about his daughter and son. "I think Henry is going to be a Pokemon master. Haven't told him that isn't an actual trade but that's okay." He chuckled once more. He watched Fletcher go somewhere else in his thoughts and tilted his head.

Taking the badges back, Xavier smiled at his softly as he tucked them away into his wallet. "Are you alright, baby?" When they went into the elevator, Xavier greeted the operator and then responded to Fletcher, "It is my first time at the top. I've been here a couple of times since I'm right down the block . Usually to get my mind off things or wake up and get some coffee. The restaurants are nice and the shops too. There's so much here. They even do a movie night. I think Mama Mia is happening tomorrow? It's magnificent how much operates in just one building. I'm glad I'm going to the top with you though. It seems right."

FLETCHER

"And thank god for that," Fletcher quipped even though he had full confidence in this already, given Xavier's fashion sense that was always on display. He grinned at the look on the younger man's face as well as his response about make-up sex and murmured a, "Good," as they continued walking. And while Fletcher knew he could be stubborn and was often blunt, he was grateful for Xavier's maturity as well as his own, particularly when it came to things that truly mattered. He wasn't bothered in the least by Xavier liking nice things. "I like them too sometimes, I just can't always afford them," he replied with a single, light chuckle. It wasn't meant as any sort of dig or even to comment on the difference in their finances and income. Fletcher was just very matter-of-fact when he wasn't being so obviously sarcastic. "I'm looking forward to us taking a look around." And when he heard what all the rest of Xavier's week was likely going to be, Fletcher nodded a bit and then said, "Look at you, getting ahead on your work. Good job, X. And if you end up in meetings or something while I'm here, I can nap it out at the hotel."

One thing he’d quickly grown to love about Xavier was how caring a father he was. Winter and Henry were his children in every way that mattered and he’d been a loving, doting and nurturing father to them which from what Xavier had told him, both children had been lacking–Winter in particular. “You will help them, and because you will, they’ll be great in their paths in life.” He’d really had no doubt in that and knew the two kids were just as lucky to have him as he was, them. He smiled a bit, “Maybe he’ll be able to channel that Pokemon mastery into a career path. Hell, if I knew as a kid that people made money from playing video games, maybe I would’ve gotten into them more than I did.”

When asked if he was alright, Fletcher glanced down at Xavier, “Yeah, just thinking is all but I’m listening.” He leaned over and pressed an assuring kiss to his boyfriend’s forehead and then heard him answer about the Empire State Building. “A movie night, huh? I didn’t know that.” He cracked a small, crooked smile about it seeming right for Xavier and him going to the top together. “Another first with me, huh?” He’d looked to the doors as the elevator slowed to a stop but spoke to Xavier again. “I’m glad we’re doing this together too. The view’s gonna be wild, I’m sure.”

XAVIER

Xavier let a light-hearted chuckle fall from his lips as he walked hand in hand with his boyfriend. He enjoyed all of Fletcher's reactions to his responses and the banter they partook in was just one of Xavier's favorite things about their relationship. A gentle smile appeared against his features at Fletcher telling him he liked nice things too but couldn't always afford them. Xavier was just happy with the chance to spoil him and his family. "Yeah, and this economy is bonkers too but I hope you'll let me continue spoiling you." He nudged him with a grin. He would never want to make his boyfriend uncomfortable but he'd try to do little things here and there for him. "Me too! And I must get a car seat for Phoebe too so you can help me with that since I'm clueless about those things." He did feel very accomplished with his work in his last week in New York City but he owed it all to wanting to get home and spend all the time he could with the people he loved. "Thank you, thank you. A nap sounds nice! You need it, that's for sure, baby."

Thinking about the future of his children worried Xavier but he also looked forward to seeing them grow up. They have only been in his life for such a short time but he felt like they have been a family forever. Imagining Winter going off to university and Henry starting high school often got him teary-eyed. They meant so much to him. "Thank you for saying that. I plan on making sure they get where they want to be." He smiled at Fletcher's comment. "Yeah, I mean look at Riley but what you're doing now, you're incredible at it. You have such a talent. I know I'm biased here but I mean it. I've seen your Instagram, and seen the comments from people who admire your work. Now that you've mentioned it though, I'm curious about Fletcher as a kid. When you were Henry's age, what were you into?"

Smiling at the kiss, he then nodded in response to the movie night. "Yeah, it seems nice." Xavier laughed and waited to be out of earshot from the elevator operator and murmured, "Always popping my cherries." When they stepped out, Xavier's smile widened immediately. There weren't too many people at the top mostly because it was mid-week in the middle of the day and because reservations were hard to get but man was it breathtaking. "Oh, wow. Take a look at that."

FLETCHER

"Tell me about it," Fletcher agreed when Xavier commented about the economy. But he squeezed his boyfriend's hand. "As long as you don't go crazy with it, you can still be my lowkey sugar daddy," he teased a bit. Considering much of the spoiling had been for his family and not him directly, Fletcher had been fine with it. The fact that Xavier was keeping his uncle and daughter in mind while talking of car shopping for his own family was spoiling for him. And Xavier organizing the sip and see for Phoebe was extremely sweet as well. He knew the gift giving was a love language of Xavier's as well and since Xavier wasn't taking away from Fletcher still being able to do things for himself and his family, he wasn't bothered. "Don't worry, babe, I'll help you out with the car seat."

He'd gone from thinking about a nap to thinking about Winter and Henry and he smiled a bit, listening to Xavier. "I know you will." He nodded a bit, "Yeah, although Riley makes money from designing the games, not playing them, right?" And when Xavier turned the conversation to him, Fletcher took the compliments in humble silence but raised a brow when he asked about him when he was younger. "Young Fletcher was a little shit. Just ask Drew," he snorted and then abruptly stopped. "Actually, don't ask him. He's got too many stories." He glanced up in thought and let out a pensive sigh, "Let's see, when I was around Henry's age, I was into the Niners, *Xena: Warrior Princess*, *Street Fighter* and *The Legend of Zelda*, and being a little shit to anyone who criticized or made fun of me. What were you like?"

He grinned at Xavier's cherry-popping comment and then quipped, "And what an honor it is." He stepped out of the elevator but his gaze had been on Xavier until the younger man indicated the view. Fletcher looked out and gently parted his lips. He'd never seen NYC like this before and all he could manage to say then was, "...Shit..." at the seemingly endless skyline. "What a view."

XAVIER

"Oh, yeah? I kinda love that." He grinned at his boyfriend's words, glad that he was open to him getting him a few things here and there. He brought their joined hands to his lips and kissed Fletcher's knuckles. "Thanks, love." Xavier smiled at the other, keeping his gaze on him when Fletcher wasn't looking. It made him incredibly happy having the older man in his life and to hear that he felt the same as Xavier did had put him on cloud nine. He felt so lucky to have found someone to share all the big and little things with and was even more grateful that it seemed to have happened at the right time for both of them. It was one of those times where the stars really did align.

"That's right. Luna does the playing." He chuckled, finding it curious his best friend and Khamani's wife found each other on that island. It really was wonderful how they were all in each other's lives now. "He started telling me a few things but hasn't gone to deep into stories. I'll get some from him soon though. I'm sure you were a little shit though." He laughed. "Oh no, no. You've activated curious Xavier and you know I'm relentless." Xavier bit his bottom lip as Fletcher went on. "Oh! Xena! I love Xrna and Hercules too! All the greats I see and of course you were dishing it out even then." Xavier flashed him an easy-going smile. "Me? I was bossy. Always telling Clayton what to do and just wanting things a specific way. My dad insisted I was a perfectionist but I'd say I just liked things a certain way." He smirked. "Had a great deal of anxiety so I joked around a lot to get over it. Was the class clown, loved to hear people laugh. There was always something electric about it all. I was obsessed with Toy Story especially Buzz Lightyear. Power Rangers were everything to me aaaanddd I had a giant crush on the pink ranger."

Xavier then laughed again. "And the green ranger." He sighed softly and then let his gaze fall on the scenery before it shifted toward his boyfriend. "Yeah...shit." He walked over to get the best view of the city line and beyond. "This is truly stunning. I see why it's considered so romantic." He wiggled his brows comically and chuckled. After a few minutes of taking it all end, he added, "Thank you for coming here. Grand gestures...they're kind of my weak spot you know." He gave Fletcher's hand a squeeze, "thank you, my love."

FLETCHER

"Want me to start calling you 'Sugar' or 'SD' for short?" he joked although he wasn't totally opposed to calling Xavier 'sugar' when he already called him 'sweetheart'. Both were fitting pet names for his boyfriend in his eyes. There were moments where being there in NYC with him felt absolutely surreal. But the hand squeezing and kissing with Xavier grounded him all over again. Eventually, he'd end up telling him how this wasn't his first time in the big apple and how he'd actually been born here and still remmwbered parts of it from childhood. But now wasn't the time to open that Empire State-sized can of worms.

"Ugh. Yeah I'm sure it won't take much for you to get those stories from him," he replied with a faux soured face. "But yeah, I was. Drew and the assistant principal knew each other on a first name basis when I was in middle school, and I wasn't much better for most of high school." He wasn't necessarily proud of it now but back then, it took him time to grow up and mamage his anger and resentment in ways other than mouthing off to people and getting into fights. He smirked and raised his brows, a bit surprised hearing that Xavier was bossy. "Really? That's hard to picture, you being bossy. But how much did your brother actually listen to you?" The organization made sense. He knew Xavier kept a clean home and car, and when he cooked, he was good at cleaning as he went. "Class clown doesn't surprise me but Toy Story, huh?" He liked learning these things about Xavier, including the Power Ranger crushes. "I mean, who *didn't* have a crush on Kimberly?" he chuckled a bit and then grinned when Xavier added the green ranger to his crushes.

He took in the view around them, still keep his hand in Xavier's while committing as much of the moment to memory. Not just the sight but being up there with someone he loved and felt glad to be sharing this moment with. He looked to Xavier, really looked into his eyes and smiled warmly. "I'm learning that. And I'm glad we did this." He kept his eyes on his boyfriend for a bit longer before leaning in and kissing him on his full lips. His free hand came up to cup his jaw and cheek and when he drew back, he told him, "I love you," followed by another brief, tender kiss. "Do you want to take a couple pictures up here before we head back down?"

XAVIER

Xavier smiled at the pet name. “Sugar reminds me of Rogue from X-Men.” His smiled widened a bit more at the thought. “I’ll just call you mon amour.” Xavier adored the idea even though every time Fletcher called him ‘sweetheart’ , it did something to him. He couldn’t explain it but he knew he loved it.

Xavier listened intently, smiling as Fletcher spoke. He knew that the other had been a trouble maker when he was a lot younger and knew that Drew was responsible for his turn around. “And look at you now. Still a trouble maker but in a hot way.” His smile grew some more. “But seriously, thank goodness for Drew. You just needed the right guidance and he made sure you got it. I wonder if we would have been friends. Like, if the age gap wasn’t a thing. And yeah really! I was bossy but Clayton never listened.” He laughed and shook his head thinking about growing up with his twin and with Riley and Athena. “He fell in loved when he was 12 and never looked back.” Xavier smiled. “Look, Toy Story was all the rage. I really wanted to go to Disney World and meet Buzz and get all the merch. We never go to as kids but my parents threw me a Toy Story birthday party and got a character for it and it was delightful.” When Fletcher made his comment about Kimberly he laughed and nodded. “Right?! And Tommy was a crush no one knew about. Not even Riley or Clayton. Tommy and Prince Caspian are responsible for my bisexual awakening.” He shook his head at himself and then directed his attention to the view. He was sure that he had never felt this way about anyone. Xavier loved Fletcher fully and wanted to have more memories like this one with him and their families too. There was nothing in the world that seemed more special.

“Me too.” Xavier whispered, his gaze flickering up to meet Fletcher’s. The slight breeze gave him a little chill down his neck as he returned his boyfriend’s kiss, raising his free hand to rest against Fletcher’s.

He smiled hearing the proclamation for the third time that afternoon and Xavier knew he’d never grow tired of hearing it. “I love you too.” More than he’s ever loved anyone romantically. “And definitely. I’ll make it one of my lock screens and put it on my desk.” He smiled as he pulled his phone from his pocket before accessing the camera and turning it to selfie mode. “You have longer arms, you do the honors.” He handed Fletcher the phone and then pressed a kiss against his cheek as one of the poses.

FLETCHER

"I mean, I could say it in a raspy, Southern accent whenever I say it if that does something for you," Fletcher replied seriously, despite the twitch of his lips.

Hus lips did end up forming a sly smirk though and he quipped, "No regrets," at being called a troublemaker by his boyfriend. "Yeah I owe Drew more than I could ever say or do for him." Fletcher knew it wasn't the first time he'd said something like this to Xavier but it was no less true then as it was now. "It's hard to say if we'd be friends or not. I wasn't the kid who gave other kids the 'let's be friends' vibes. I could probably count on one hand the number of people who were friends back then. Weirdly, even though I wasn't the most openly friendly, it didn't really seem to stop people from trying to talk to me or be friends or whatever though." He remained a tentatively listener to Xavier and softly grinned. "Your love for Toy Story's adorable. Are there pictures somewhere of you from this birthday party? But Tommy and Prince Caspian, huh? You like your brunettes, don't you?" He chuckled and kissed the side of Xavier's head, and then got to looking at the view with his love.

While he prepared to take his phone from his back pocket, he listened to Xavier and chuckled, "Oh is that all?" He smiled and then chuckled again, accepting Xavier's phone. "Sure thing, sugar," he answered with his best Rogue impression, positioning the camera and smiling softly as Xavier kissed his cheek. He took the picture and then turned his head to nuzzle Xavier's temple for another picture before muttering, "C'mere," tilting his head to meet his lips for a kiss. He remembered to tap the camera button a couple of times before drawing back and then asked, "Should we take one where we're *both* looking at the camera?"

XAVIER

Xavier glanced over at his boyfriend with a smirk and then chuckled softly. "You do that and we're not leaving the hotel room after we eat."

"hm, I bet." Xavier kept his smirk. "Bad influence is what you are." He replied playfully thinking how much he loved Fletcher for who he was. He then smiled gently at the mention of Drew who had become someone Xavier respected and appreciated in such a short time. "Remind me to thank him a million times for everything." He was a rock for Fletcher. He was his boyfriend's anchor and he'd go as far as saying he was his savior and if not for him, perhaps Xavier would have never met him and his boyfriend wouldn't have had the opportunity to know what true parents were like. "I could see that. All of that. I was a little awkward. A lot went into that with being one of the only black kids in my class raised by a white family. So comedy...that's how I made friends. But I probably would have been one of those trying to be your friends." He sighed, holding on to Fletcher's hand, enjoying the easy conversation. He felt his cheeks flush at being called adorable for liking Toy Story. "Aw shucks, thank you." He then nodded. "I know my parents have tons. I'll have them send me some to show you. Also, just remembered their Facebook has photos. And you know what? yeah, I do—troublemakers with a big-ass heart brunettes. I'm a giant sucker for those." He laughed as well, completely engrossed in their moment.

"Yeah, that's all." He chuckled too and then bit his lip as he smiled at Fletcher's Rogue impression. "Oh, you're in trouble now." Forgetting they were taking pictures, Xavier closed his eyes momentarily as his boyfriend nuzzled his temple, letting a soft laugh fall from his lips before they were met with Fletcher's pair. He nodded at the question that came next and Xavier softened his gaze, admiring his troublemaker before looking at the camera with a giant smile.

Once the photos were taken, he pocketed his phone and continued admiring the view. "We'll get our sandwiches to go and then you can do whatever you want with me." His gaze flickered up to meet his boyfriend's eyes. "Make some fantasies come true. Anything." He reached up to gently run his fingers through the side of Fletcher's hair. "Proper thank you for coming out here for me, mon amour."

FLETCHER

"You say that like it's a threat, but all I hear is a challenge." Fletcher met his boyfriend's smirk with one of his own and started thinking about Southern accents.

"Moooi? A bad influence?" He said, faux shock with his free hand pointing to his own chest. "Well that's just painfully accurate." He knew as much and didn't actually have a problem with this description of himself. And he listened to Xavier, speaking kindly and highly of his uncle while not knowing the full extent of how much Drew deserved all the thanks. One day, Fletcher would tell him about his parents and why he ended up I'm Drew's care, but today wasn't that day. He was far too happy and had plenty to relish about their time and having told Xavier he loved him. He listened to the younger man and sobered a bit hearing some of the reason behind Xavier leaning into comedy and being the class clown. Fletcher squeezed his hand, "I can't imagine what that had been like growing up especially. The fucking stupidity of some people." He lifted their joined hands to kiss Xavier's, and then let their hands remain held at their sides. A small grin appeared at Xavier's "type" and then he chuckled, "A half dozen tattoos might be a bonus to that, hm?"

He'd taken a few more pictures for them and then arched his brows, "No, no, I'm the trouble-maker, not the trouble-getter." He kissed Xavier on his lips and had taken a couple more pictures before handing the phone back to his boyfriend. "Oh really? Hot damn, sweetheart. Say less." He smirked and pressed another, lingering kiss to Xavier's lips, his free hand cupping Xavier's neck while gliding his thumb along the Brit's jaw. "We better get outta here or we'll never make it to getting sandwiches."

XAVIER

"Take it as you will." Xavier shook his head all the while stealing a glance at Fletcher's smirk only for his lips to do the same.

"Uh yes! But I kinda sorta love this bad influence so I guess it's okay." Xavier teased Fletcher. He loved the way his boyfriend challenged him and taught him new things. He had become open to exploration he wouldn't have known about if not for meeting him and it was just one of the reasons Xavier had fallen for the other. He smiled softly at Fletcher's reaction to how and why Xavier had chosen comedy. "Mm. I blame the parents. I always said if kids are out there spewing unkind things, what are the parents teaching them? It's okay though look at me now, bitches!" He laughed. "Kidding. Kind of. Nah, eat shit." He laughed again, his expression melting at the sight of Fletcher kissing their joined hands. Little gestures were just as incredible as the big ones. "The tattoos were definitely a bonus. I got myself a baddie." He playfully nudged Fletcher with his shoulder and grinned.

"I think you can be both." He laughed and kissed his boyfriend. If he could, he'd devour him there. Xavier took the phone from Fletcher and quickly sent them to him, a smirk landing on his face at Fletcher's words. He looked up at him and returned the kiss, turning to face him completely, a sly little smirk playing against his lips. "We need to eat. Sustenance. I saw my trainer this morning so I have a lot of energy..." He chuckled and went back to taking Fletcher's hand, gesturing toward the elevator. "I need you to wipe me out."

FLETCHER

"You know I will," Fletcher quipped. And then he gave Xavier a questioning glance, "You *kinda sorta* love the bad influence thing?" He pecked Xavier's temple and then gazed out at the skyline as the two of them continued to talk. But his eyes fell back on his boyfriend when they got back to talking about what kids were like when Xavier was growing up. "Eh, yeah parents can be a big part but other dumbass people are influences too. Peer pressure and shit like that. I'd had idiots I'd gotten into fights with because their friends were idiots too and they were just copying what the other was saying or doing." After squeezing Xavier's hand, he said, "Yeah you better own that. You're amazing, smart, handsome, loving, sexy, successful, and funny." When he lowered their hands between them, he chuckled, "The baddie and the zaddy," pointing between the two of them.

"Eh, I can be and I have been. But in this case, I just wanna make a little trouble." He kissed Xavier deeply, only reluctantly lightening the kiss to mutter against his lips. "Didn't you say room service was a thing?" He kissed the corner of his mouth and to his jaw, heading to his neck where he murmured, "You need that, huh? Well I've been sitting on an airplane for hours so I've got plenty of energy that needs to be used up." He nipped Xavier's ear and then lifted his head, "Let's go. You've got me wanting to show you how much I love you, and wanting to fulfill that need of yours all at once."

XAVIER

Xavier loved the banter. Fletcher never had a problem keeping up and conversations were always easy even when they were teasing one another. "Okay, I really fucking love it." He smiled at the kiss against his temple, sighing contently. Even amid heavier topics, Xavier and Fletcher found ways to support each other and still find some levity. He nodded in agreement to Fletcher's response. "You're right. There was plenty of that growing up. Sorry that you had to deal with it too." Xavier listened intently, a smile forming on his lips, the warmth rising in his cheeks. If he smiled any harder, his cheeks would begin to hurt. "You're complimentary today." He grinned once more. "Ohhh I like that. The baddie and the Zaddy." Xavier knew he had struck gold with Fletcher and he'd make sure his boyfriend was reminded of that as often as possible.

"Only a little?" Xavier closed his eyes, returning the kiss as a part of him wondered if there was anywhere they could run off to but thankfully the hotel wasn't too far away. "Room service is always a thing..." He bit the inside of his cheek and then the corner of his lips as he tried to focus. By now, Fletcher knew exactly where his weakest spots were and he was hitting some of them now. "Mm hmm. Desperate." He barely got the words out secretly wishing there was no elevator operator. "There are better things you can do for hours." He chuckled, grabbing his boyfriend's hand and pulling him toward the elevator to leave for the hotel.

#para: concrete jungle #flavier #paras

2 notes · View notes