THE GENTLEMEN'S CLUB
Linden

Written by JustAnotherWriter
http://www.asstr.org/~bbp

Please do not reproduce on any website without permission. This
story has no resemblance to anyone dead or alive.

PROLOGUE

"Come on Sean. It'll be fun."

"Thank you so much for the invite Ethan but I really don't think I
should..."

"Sean," interrupted a familiar drawl from behind him, "don't
bother arguing with him. He won't take no for an answer. I've
already tried."

Sean Patrick Flannery turned to face his friend, coming out of the
kitchen. One of the best Manhattan Doctors around Linden Ashby.
"But Linden, isn't this suppose to be your *building* Christmas
party?" Sean calls Linden, "Linden" basically because he considers
Linden a nice name, besides most of Linden's friends calls him
Coop, he doesn't know why, that is he never asked. So he liked the
way Linden sounded anyways.

Ethan Hawke smiled brightly, "Sort of. Several of the other
occupants have invited friends along too. Besides Sean, if anyone
deserves to be an honorary tenant of the building, it's you.
Without your influence Doc and the other tenants would still be
dealing with 'Doctor Scrooge' over there."

Sean looked at him with bemused gray-green eyes and Linden glared
at the grinning Ethan, "Keep it up Ethan and I'll tell Matt, what
you've been eating behind his back." He warned.

Ethan laughed, "I'd like to see you try it Mr. I don't eat
anything but vegetables or something healthy."

Linden smiled wickedly, "I was talking about the chocolates that
you've been devouring while Matt is dieting."

"You wouldn't!"

"Linden...", Sean interrupted.

"Relax Sean, he knows I wouldn't really do it...or he hopes I
wouldn't do it." Sean looked worriedly between the two, relaxing
as he noticed the mischevious twinkle in Linden's gray-blue eyes,
"Linden, please refrain from teasing him."

"Sure Sean,...for now. So," he said quickly, "how about it Sean?
You want to come to the party or do you and Murphy have big plans
tomorrow night?" Murphy is the name of Sean's Labrador. He was
taken from the pound two years ago as puppy who was all skin and
bones, but because of Sean's compassionate nature that mutt has
grown into a healthy exuberant runt.

"No Linden. But..."

"Great. It's settled. I'll pick you up at seven. See Ethan, it's
easy when you know how to ask." And with that, Linden turned and
walked quickly back to the kitchen, leaving a stunned Sean and an
amused Ethan in his wake.

Ethan patted his shoulder sympathetically, "I promise it'll be fun
Sean. We'll see you guys tomorrow."

"Thank you again for inviting me Ethan."

"No problem."



ONE

True to his word, Linden appeared at Sean's door at precisely
seven. Sean motioned him to a chair as he hurried to finish
dressing. "I'm sorry Linden. Eric had some problems with his
computer and it took longer to fix then I thought it would. I'm
almost ready."

Sean worked at a computer shop and when it comes to fixing
gadgets, Sean is one if not the best at the trade.

Linden shook his head in exasperation, "Sean. When will you learn
that you don't have to do everything?"

Sean poked his head out of the bedroom, "I wasn't trying to do
everything Linden. I was just trying to see what the problem was
and trying to fix it."

Linden smiled at his friend's sincerity, "Whatever Sean. Just
hurry up will ya? Doc and Ethan's expecting us." Matt or Doc is
Ethan's partner and a psychiatrist thus the name Doc.

"Yes Linden." Sean emerged moments later clad in black jeans and a
cream colored sweater over a green t-shirt. He grabbed his coat,
then knelt to talk with Murphy, "You'll have to stay here tonight
Murphy. Maria will be here later to check on you. I'll be back
later this evening." The dog looked at him intently for a moment
then yawned. "Just behave yourself all right."

Murphy snorted and walked to his normal resting place atop the
sofa and lied down.

Linden watched the exchange in amusement. As the dog settled his
lap while waiting for Sean to finish dressing, he reached down and
scratched the dog's ears. The black canine looked at him
expectantly, "I'll bring you something back boy," he whispered in
a conspiracy tone, "I promise." The stubby tail thumped happily
against the floor boards.

Linden looked up to find Sean staring at him.

"Don't encourage him Linden. He's already gotten too lazy." Murphy
whined pitifully. "Don't try to talk your way out of this. There's
no way I'm going to let you eat a box of donuts on your own." The
dog harrumphed disgustedly and turned away from his human
companion.

Linden's laughter echoed lightly in the apartment and Sean reveled
in the joyous sound. It had been too long since Linden had sounded
so relaxed and carefree. Sean was suddenly glad that Ethan had
insisted that he go this evening. Worried at the direction his
thoughts were headed, Sean rose abruptly, "Shall we go?" He pulled
on his jacket and headed quickly out the door.

"Sure Sean. Whatever you say," he murmured to the retreating
figure. He reached down and and rubbed the dog's head one last
time then headed out the door after his friend.



The ride to the apartment building passed in companionable chit-
chat as Linden relayed the latest fiasco that happened earlier in
the morning at the hospital. Apparently, one of the younger
patient's has been searching for candies atop a counter and found
a spider, the youth was convinced that it was a Christmas present
from Santa and has never let it out of his sight since. It was
definite chaos when the spider got away and the nurse who found it
fainted and thus making the pediatric ward a very happening place.
Sean enjoyed hearing the stories of the boisterous hospital. Being
a quiet and reserved child, he'd never known the kind of frantic,
free-for-all exuberance that Linden often described among his
patients. The warmth that radiated from Linden as he talked of his
patients always made Sean smile, and he wondered if anyone would
ever speak of him with that kind of loving warmth. He shook off
the gloomy thoughts and concentrated on Linden's story.

They reached the building at 7:45pm and Linden parked his Jag as
close to the door as he could. They walked into the brightly lit
hall and were greeted by a smiling Joan. Joan was the sister of
John, one their poker buddies. Her brown hair was pulled back in a
knot entwined with satin ribbon. The flowing red dress was cut
demurely but flatteringly. Linden couldn't help but stare at the
lovely woman, "Joan, you look stunning. Those grubby sweats you
wear does not do you justice."

Joan beamed at Linden's praise, "Thank you kind sir."

Joan was one of the tenants on the building and much prefers the
comfort of cotton and denim rather than dressing up so seeing her
in this get-up is quite rare. She took his overcoat and Sean's
coat and hung them on the rack behind her, "I was beginning to
think that Ethan was wrong and that you two weren't coming. I'm
glad I was wrong." She looked the blonde doctor over critically.
The dark grey suit was well tailored and emphasized his narrow
waist and hips. The gray silk shirt emphasized his gray eyes and
made them sparkle and dance. She had to admit he looked good. "You
clean up pretty well Doctor," she teased. She surprised the
smiling doctor by wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing
him briefly on the lips.

"Joan?!?"

She giggled as she stepped back. Her brown eyes glowed with mirth
as she pointed to the light fixture over Linden's head. He
followed her gesture and groaned at the bundle of green and white
hanging there from a golden cord.

"Cute Joan. I wondered why you were being so helpful."

"Hey. A girl's got to use every advantage she can."

"Uh huh," he murmured unconvinced. "Your turn Sean," Joan said
eagerly. She laughed as Sean looked at her nervously. "Oh come on.
I don't bite...much," she joked and kissed the blushing man. The
kiss lasted much longer than Linden's had.

Finally, Linden stepped in, "Let the guy breathe will you? You're
worse than Steo. You know that Joan?!?" Stephen was one of their
dearest friends who was an outrageous flirt that is until he
hooked up with Ronan, another one of their poker buddies.

Joan was unrepentant, "Sorry Sean. Merry Christmas."

Sean cleared his throat hesitantly, "No apology necessary Joan and
Happy Holidays Christmas as well."

She smiled at the flush that spread across Sean's tanned face. "I
promise I'll behave myself Sean, but I just had to use that
mistletoe. And no and in case you were asking. No, I didn't put it
there Linden. But I'd love to find out who did." With a smug smile
she linked arms with the two men and led them in to the party.

Joan Cusack was the envy of many men and women that night. Being
escorted by two gorgeous blonde men. Sean and Linden paid special
attention to the animated woman as the evening progressed and she
positively glowed. Linden was surprised at how much fun he was
having. Joan was an intelligent and observant woman and had a
knack for making even the uptight human being relax. He had seen
Sean smile more this evening than he had in the last three weeks
combined.

He had been worried about his friend. Sean had seemed troubled
recently, but had refused to talk about it, saying it was nothing.
Linden knew better. When they met two years ago at the hospital,
Sean was a too controlled even for a 32-year old. They met while
Sean helped a boy who broke his ankle while playing at the park.
Sean was such a do gooder, a Dudley Do-right personified, trying
to save the world. They became immediate friends and since then he
has gotten to know the guy quite well, in fact he had gotten to
the point that he could usually tell when something was bothering
his reserved friend. Linden wondered if Sean was suffering from
the "holiday blues" as he himself calls it. When Ethan had
mentioned the Christmas party at the building he was determined to
make his depressed friend go, hoping the festivities would
brighten his flagging spirits. It looked like he had been right to
push Sean to go.

"Hey Sean," he called, "let's go check out the food. If I go back
to your place empty handed Murphy will never forgive me. And I
hate to see a over grown dog pout."

Sean rose to follow the tall doctor, "Linden, you really shouldn't
encourage him so much."

"Lighten up Sean, It's the holidays."



Matthew Broderick watched the two friends with amusement as they
moved easily through the crowd. Linden stopped and introduced Sean
to some of his colleagues, some doctors like himself, nurses and
such and Matt marveled at the change in the doctor. When he had
met Linden three years ago he had been a sarcastic jerk, at least
most of the time anyway and was convinced that the man was a
psycho waiting to happen, he's a psychiatrist, so he knows the
signs very well. However, every so often his softer side would
peek through, especially when he was dealing with his patients,
the younger ones, but those times were few and far between. He
wasn't mean spirited, just reserved, suspicious and very driven,
ever since the divorce he has been acting even worse. >[?Sean had
changed all that. Linden seemed happier now, content even. Even
the nurses on the pediatric wing agreed that Sean was a positive
influence on the 38-year old doctor. Oh, he was still sarcastic
and a major pain in the butt at times, but he was easier to deal
with, more affectionate. He was one of the few gentlemen left who
would open a door for ladies and offer his seat to old people. He
and Sean both did and it was nice to see. It seemed such a small
thing to them, but it meant a lot to people around them. Sean was
really rubbing off on Linden, and he, for one, was grateful.



Ethan watched the two men and smiled at the ease between them.
They looked good together, each a compliment to the other, maybe
not in looks, for they are both similar blonde, both has green
eyes, although Linden is about three or four inches taller than
Sean's own 5'9, but in temperament certainly. Sean had the boy
next door good looks and innocence while Linden had the "brooding
Mature American Doctor" features and the temper to match. Their
differences and similarities made them a handsome couple. Ethan
stopped short at the thought. Were they? He didn't think so, in
fact he's been pushing the two together for quite some time now
and they both seemed oblivious to his attempts. But he knew from
experience that things doesn't always appear as they look or at
least that was the case with Jeremy and Billy.

He studied them with renewed interest, watching how they
interacted with each other. Linden was as lively and boisterous as
always, and having met his society oriented ex-wife of his, Ethan
knew it was a survival trait for him. Sean however seemed just a
little off. He hung back slightly when Linden went up to talk to
people, only stepping forward when Linden motioned for him to. He
smiled politely but it didn't quite reach his eyes, or at least
not as much as it usually did. As they moved through the crowd,
his green eyes never left the tall form in front of him, as if he
was drawing strength from the handsome doctor. Sean's normal
reserve was even stronger than usual, but Linden didn't seem to
notice. Or maybe he did, he thought with a start, that's why he
railroaded Sean into coming tonight, or rather they both did, he
thought with a grin.

Oh Ethan knew Linden don't usually come to these kind of
gathering, opting to stay at his apartment or the hospital to help
prepare for the holidays, but he hadn't really thought about it
until now. He smiled brightly as they returned to the table,
watching them completely unobserved. Shortly after they sat back
down, a beautiful young woman came to the table and asked Linden
to dance. Ethan recognized her as one of the nurses that Linden
casually dated after his divorce. Linden smilingly excused himself
and followed the red-haired beauty out to the dance floor. Ethan
watched Sean, waiting for his reaction. He seemed oblivious to
him, having eyes only for the retreating couple. The expressive
green eyes reflected his sadness, and something more, for a brief
moment, then became shuttered as his normal control fell back into
place. Ethan watched Linden as he laughed and danced with the
newcomer and wondered how one man could be so lucky, yet so blind.

His gaze met Joan's across the room and they both looked at each
other and had the same idea. Ethan nodded and Joan walked across
the hall towards Sean and he knew that she was up to something or
at least she would try to.

"Sean. Would you mind helping me with something?"

"Of course not Joan. What can I help with?"

"Well," she began hesitantly, frantically searching for a way to
talk to him in private, "I really hate to ask, but I've got some
food in the car that would spoil if I don't bring it in, they
really need to be refrigerated. I don't think I can handle all of
them and I'm parked at the far end of the lot..."

Sean smiled, "I'd be happy to."

"Great. Come on then." She led Sean to the hallway, waiting as he
retrieved their coats. She pulled her keys from her coat pocket
and headed out the doors into the cool night air.

She hated lying to the gentle man beside her, but she really did
want to speak with him. The man in question fell into step beside
her as she walked slowly to her car. She broke the silence, "I'm
really glad you two came tonight. Ethan and I wasn't sure you
would."

"Linden seemed eager to come so I agreed. He was right, and so was
Ethan, it has been enjoyable, especially since you're here." He
answered, his voice, however, was laced with sadness.

"I'm glad." She paused, uncertain how to broach the next subject.
Taking a deep breath she plunged forward, "Sean, can I ask you a
personal question? You may refuse to answer it if you don't want
to."

He considered for a moment, puzzled then answered, "Of course you
may Joan."

"How long have been in love with Linden?" The soft question caught
Sean off guard and he sucked in a startled breath. Joan's hand
grasped his shoulder, offering suport, "I'm sorry Sean. I didn't
mean to startle you like that."

"No. That's quite alright Joan." He took a deep breath and met her
concerned brown eyes, "Is it that obvious?"

Joan smiled reassuringly, "No. I just happen to know the signs.
Does it bother you that I've guessed?"

He thought and looked into her face for long moments before
answering, "No. As long as Linden isn't hurt by your knowing."

"Sean, you know I won't say anything. I wouldn't have even brought
it up except you looked like you could use a friendly ear.
Sometimes it helps to talk." Sean held her hand and smiled sadly.
"He doesn't know does he?"

Sean shook his head, "How could he? I didn't realize it until a
few weeks ago. I knew I cared for him. He's my best friend, Three
weeks ago as I helped him with some kids at the hospital, I
realized it was something more. I couldn't take my eyes off him.
That night I dreamed about him,... about us together, and it
surprised me. I've never felt this kind of connection with anyone
before, let alone a man. It's like I've found a part of my soul
that I didn't know was missing. But I know I can never tell him,"
he finished sadly.

"Why not?" she inquired.

"I think you know 'why not' Joan. He would never accept that kind
of relationship. It goes against everything he is."

"You might be surprised Sean."

"No. I don't think so, not in this case. And I won't risk his
friendship to find out.", he answered, his voice adamant and in a
much softer tone he asked, "May I ask how you knew?"

Joan smiled, "I watched my brother John go through the same thing.
He fell hard for a guy that he just met. He confided in me because
he said he needed someone to talk to. He swore the guy would never
go for someone like him so he wasn't even going to try. Well,
right before he finished his photo shoot he got up the courage to
ask the guy to lunch. They really hit it off. Later, Mikey, the
guy he was attracted to, asked him why he had waited so long to
ask."

"So things worked out well for them?"

"Oh yeah. They have a place now and both seem to be very happy."

"The difference Joanne is that Mikey was gay. Linden, on the other
hand, is not."

"Are you sure?" Sean glanced at her. "Have you ever considered the
possibility he may be bi? Or that he may be feeling like you are?
You said you'd never felt that connection with a man before, maybe
Linden's the same way. I don't think you realize the changes in
Linden since he's known you Sean. He's more alive, more gentle
when he's with you. He seems happier too. But sometimes Linden can
be a bit dense. He may not realize what's going on. You have to
admit that subtlety can be truly lost on him sometimes."

Sean chuckled.

"Anyway. I guess what I'm trying to say is give it a chance. I'm
here if you ever need to talk to someone. I hope things work out
for you, I really do. I think you two would be good for each other
in fact I'm sure Ethan feels the same way."

Sean blushed hotly. Joan laughed and hugged him "If you need
anything or want us to kick a certain doctor in the butt for you,
I'd love the opportunity. I can't believe that he's so clueless in
this. Anyway, I won't say anything but I'm here for you, both of
you."

"Thank you Joan," he said softly and hugged her again. She smiled
brightly up at the handsome man in front of her, "You're welcome
Sean."




TWO

Linden searched the crowd again, looking for the familiar figure.
God, he never thought he'd wish for that red godawful print polo
shirt that Seans seems to prefer, but at least it made Sean easy
to spot. Finally he saw the familiar light-brown haired figure
enter through the main door. Sean was walking arm and arm with
Joan talking easily. Something made her laugh and Sean blushed
brightly. Linden felt an unaccustomed flash of envy at the warm
look that passed between the two and wished he knew what she had
said to his shy friend that could make him as red as his favorite
shirt. He waved the smiling couple over to the table and eyed them
both critically. It looked like they'd been outside, the cool
still adding a slight flush to their cheeks and noses.

"So, did you enjoy the walk?" he asked archly.

"Very much so, Linden," came Sean's guiltless reply and Linden
felt like a heel for the accusing tone of the question. "Joan and
I had a very nice walk. The sky are remarkably beautiful tonight
since it is so cool. I think we may be in for some snow later
though, there were some clouds were gathering on the horizon.
There may be a White Christmas after all."

"The kids would be happy to hear that," Linden replied
automatically, his eyes on Joan, trying to read her expression. No
blush. No secret glances. Maybe it was just a simple walk.

Linden mentally shook himself. Not every woman was like his ex-
wife, scheming to get the his gentle friend alone and take
advantage of him. In fact, Sean looked more relaxed than he had in
several weeks. If Joan could do that with just a simple walk, then
he'd have to encourage her to do it more often.

Something stirred inside him at the thought of someone else being
the one to help his friend relax but he didn't dwell on it. He
felt warm brown eyes on him and turned to find Joan watching him,
smiling.

"Care to dance Doctor?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with
amusement.

Linden felt like he had missed something important, but didn't ask
what. He shrugged and smiled his best "prince charming smile". He
rose and offered his hand to Joan with a flourish, "It would be an
honor beautiful lady."

Joan shot a glance at Sean as she took Linden's hand in hers, "
Don't go anywhere Sean. You're next on my dance card." Sean
rewarded her with a smile and inclined his head in acknowledgment.
She smiled back and kissed him lightly on the cheek as she passed.

Linden was so stunned that he didn't even notice that she had
whispered something in Sean's ear as well. He just stood, shocked
at the new intimacy between them. Once again he wondered what had
happened on their "walk". He led the slender woman out to the
dance floor and was grateful for the slow song the DJ began, it
let him get close enough to talk to Joan.

"What's going on Joan?" he asked suspiciously.

"What do you mean Linden?"

"You know what I mean Joan. What's the deal with you and Sean? I
mean, I'm glad to see him smiling again, but I'm not going to let
you take advantage of him."

Joan laughed, "You know Linden. I don't know whether to be
insulted or flattered. First of all, Sean is a grown man who knows
his own mind. Secondly, I would never take advantage of anyone,
especially one as sweet as him."

Linden raised an arched eyebrow at her. "Just don't hurt him,
okay. He's been through enough. I don't know what's been bothering
him lately but if you can get him out of this funk great. Just be
careful with him. You've never had to deal with those big jade
eyes when he's been hurt. He's worse than my patients when he's
begging for something."

Joan wondered if Linden realized how he sounded when he talked
about his friend. She shook her head in exasperation, it was like
watching John and Mikey all over again, only worse.

Linden caught her gaze and bristled, "What???"

She smiled her Mona Lisa smile, that Linden was really beginning
to hate, and just shook her head at him. They danced in silence
for a while then his partner finally spoke, "Linden, have you ever
been in love?"

Linden looked at her in confusion, "Yeah, I guess so. Why?"

"Nothing."

"Wait a minute. Are you hinting that Sean might be in love?

That's why he's acting so weird."

"I never said that Linden."

"No, but it would explain a lot."

Joan watched as Linden's reviewed Sean's actions of the past few
weeks. She couldn't help but wonder if he'd finally see what was
in front of his face. She knew she'd promised Sean not to say
anything, and technically she hadn't. But she couldn't stand to
see him so unhappy, not when the thing that could make him happy
was so close. If only the two of them could see it. She'd always
wanted to play matchmaker, but something about these two made it
more so, they do, they might not know it yet, they belong
together. She wouldn't press the issue, but she had to at least
open the doorway, the rest was up to them. She made a mental note
to call Mikey and thank him for his advice when John had been so
confused: Sometimes you have to help people see what's in front of
their face. People can be extremely unaware, especially where
their own happiness is concerned. She hoped for Sean's sake that
Mikey was right.

Linden's voice cut through her reverie. "OK Joan, spill it. Who is
she? He told you something on that walk didn't he?"

Joan could hear the hurt and accusation in Linden's voice. She
felt for the blond doctor. His gray eyes were shuttered, guarded,
a lot like they use to be before Sean had come to know him. She
held his gaze, searching for a way to answer without betraying
Sean's trust.

Linden was afraid of what her answer would be, afraid of the
growing hurt he felt building inside him. Why would Sean confide
in her but not him? Weren't they friends, best-friends? This was
the kind of thing that friends shared with each other, wasn't it?
He waited for her answer, not sure he wanted to hear it.

"No Coop, he didn't tell me anything," she said quietly, adding
silently at least not anything I didn't already know. She watched
as Linden visibly relaxed, his eyes dancing with her words. He
smiled a sweet, open smile and Joan noticed again how soft and
gentle his eyes were. He was an attractive man when he smiled, and
she could see how someone could fall for those eyes. She liked
this side of Linden, he seemed more approachable, more open. It
was so much better than the sarcasm he usually showed. She didn't
realize she'd been staring at him until he backed away
uncomfortably and she watched the color rise in his face. She
chuckled at his discomfort. "You are a confusing man Doctor Linden
Ashby, a study in contrasts."

"What did I do now?"

She heard the song winding down to its final chorus and decided to
risk one more comment, "You're an intelligent man Coop, too bad
you're don't get some really obvious things that are right under
your nose."

He stared at her in confusion as the song they were dancing to
ended. She confused him further by kissing his cheek lightly and
taking his hand in her own, "Just keep looking doctor, I'm sure
you'll get them... eventually." She led him back towards the
table, stopping short to add, "And I'm happy for you when you
finally do." Without another word she walked to the table and
claimed Sean's hand for the next dance. Linden walked to his chair
and sat, trying to make sense of her words.



The remainder of the evening passed quickly and he and Sean were
soon bundled in the Jag and headed towards Sean's apartment. They
were both unusually quiet on the drive back, lost in their own
thoughts. As they reached their destination, Sean seemed reluctant
to break the comfortable silence that had grown between them. He
cleared his throat self-consciously, "Thank you for encouraging me
to go this evening Linden. I had a very enjoyable evening."

"Anytime Sean, you know that. Ah, buddy, you know you can talk to
me about anything don't you? I mean, if something was bothering
you, you'd tell me right?"

Sean was suddenly glad for the darkness of the car's interior, "Of
course I would Linden." He paused, not sure how to continue,
knowing he could never tell the man what was truly on his mind. He
looked out into the darkness, lost in thought.

"Well, I guess I'll talk to you later Sean. Thanks for coming
tonight."

Sean nodded, shaken from his jumbled thoughts, "You're welcome
Linden," he answered automatically. "Would you care to come up for
a few moments? I know you have something for Murphy."

"Nah, I really shouldn't. It's late and I've got an early
operation scheduled tomorrow. Would you mind giving it to him? I
know you rather not, but give it to the big mutt anyway, for me. I
just don't think I'm up the those stairs right now."

Sean did his best to hide his disappointment, "Of course Linden. I
wouldn't want Murphy to think you had forgotten him. I'll let you
go so you can get some sleep." He moved quickly from the car,
pausing only to say, "Thank you again for tonight."

Linden could tell Sean was upset and disappointed but he wasn't
sure why. "Hey Sean?" he called, stalling his friend before he
closed the car door, "you're still coming over for Christmas poker
party aren't you?"

Sean brightened considerably, "Of course Linden. If the invitation
is still stands."

"Don't be silly. The guys would kill me if I didn't include you in
with the party. They adopted you the first time you beat Jeremy at
pool. Anyway, why don't I come over and pick you up Christmas Eve.
The weather is suppose to turn bad and that way they can be sure
you'll be there."

"I'd like that Linden."

"Great, I'll pick you up around six?" Linden's mind worked for a
moment, remembering the number of people that were usually over
for Christmas Eve party and the chaos that surrounded them. The
prospect did not appeal to him, and he didn't want to subject Sean
to that, at least not for some time yet. He wanted this Christmas
to be special for his friend, not terrifying. His mind came up
with a plan to spare them both, "Why don't I bring over dinner,
that way you don't have to deal with crazed well wishers quite so
soon. Trust me, Tonight was tiring enough. We could have a quiet
meal, just the three of us."

"Three Linden?"

"Yeah. You, me and the mutt."

"I'd like that Linden," he said quietly, not trusting his voice to
say anything further.

Linden noticed the flush that spread across Sean's face, visible
even in the dimness of the car's dome light. His mind recalled
Joanne's words about missing obvious clues that were right under
his nose.He looked at his handsome friend, studying the down
turned face. Could it be? He wasn't sure, but a slight twinge in
his intuition said it might just be an interesting Christmas after
all. Choosing his words carefully, he watched Sean's face for his
reaction, "Great. It's a date then. I'll see you tomorrow night."
Wide and startled green eyes locked with his, and Linden couldn't
stop the lopsided grin that spread across his face as he handed
his stunned friend the wrapped treat for Murphy, "Something wrong
Sean?"

"No Linden. I'm fine. Please drive home safely."

"Sure thing. Good night buddy."

"Good night Linden," Sean responded automatically as he stepped
away from the car and closed the door. He stared after the car as
Linden pulled slowly away from the curb. His steps were light as
he moved up the stairs to his apartment, his mind a whirl of
emotions. Had Linden really called it a "DATE?"


THREE

The sky was a dark as Linden moved the Jag easily to the curb
outside Sean's apartment building. He still wondered if he was
misreading the situation. Was Sean really attracted to him? He had
spent the evening after dropping him off driving around trying to
sort out his thoughts on the matter.

At first he was frightened and a little disgusted with the idea.
Everything he had been raised with said that this sort of
attraction was not for him, Oh sure. most of his poker buddies he
knew were together but he didn't feel that that was to be his fate
as well. He had a wife for goodness sake, albeit a bad one.

On the other hand, it didn't feel wrong, not with Sean. Then he
had started looking back on their friendship and realized that
somewhere along the way Sean had come to mean more than just his
friend. He had become an important and integral part of his life.
In fact, Linden couldn't imagine life without his best friend.

Sean accepted him, wholly and without question. He offered an
unconditional friendship that Linden had never known before. It
was as attractive as it was frightening. Linden worried that he
wasn't worthy of that friendship, let alone anything more. They
had been through so much together and always their friendship
remained, sometimes strained but always intact. Could there be
something more than friendship between them? Did he want something
more? He still wasn't any closer to an answer but he had the
feeling that tonight would help him in that decision. Sean's
happiness and their friendship were the most important things to
him and he wouldn't do anything to damage either one.

A sharp tap on the passenger's window startled him from his
musings and he looked up to find worried green eyes watching him
intently. He smiled self-consciously and motioned for Sean to open
the door. "You caught me Sean, I was wool-gathering. Sorry if I
worried you. I am, however, extremely glad to see you. It saves me
another trip up and down those damn stairs."

Sean studied his friend intently then nodded, "What can I do to
help you Linden?" "I'm glad you asked buddy. It's going to take
several trips to get everything up to the apartment, so could you
help carry?" "Of course Linden."

Linden exited the car and opened the large trunk, revealing
several plastic grocery bags, a portable CD player and a large
picnic basket. Sean's eyebrows shot up as he looked at the items.
Linden laughed, "Welcome to the world of my Christmas indulgence,
Sean The food has always been this way, get use to it."

He handed Sean the CD player and two of the plastic bags. He took
the picnic basket and the two remaining plastic bags. He struggled
with the trunk for a moment before finally managing to close it.
"Well, I'll be," he said triumphantly, "we can do this all in one
trip. Well Sean, onward."

Sean laughed. "Yes Sir."

Sean has a nice laugh, Linden thought.



They managed to reach Sean's apartment at the 4th floor without
incident and Sean ushered Linden into the quaint apartment. Murphy
barked happily as they came through the door, snuffing around
Linden to see if he had brought any treats, "Just hold on you
walking garbage disposal," the object of the dog's attention
explained, "you'll get your present in a minute."

Linden set the basket and sacks down carefully on the kitchen
table and Sean followed suit. Linden grinned at his friend, "Now
before you get mad, this is from the kids at the hospital not me."

Sean looked at him in confusion. Linden opened one of the sacks
and withdrew a plate of cookies called Murphy. Sean started to
protest. Linden held up a hand, "Sean, they made me promise he'd
get this, they made this themselves. If it makes you feel better
we can give it to him a little at a time." Murphy growled in
protest but Sean nodded.

Linden selected a large piece of cookie and handed it to the dog,
"Just remember there's more of that. If you behave I'll try to
talk him into giving you more after dinner." Murphy whined and
happily settled down with the treat.

"The food looks great Linden, please thank the guys for me." Sean
complimented.

Linden turned from where he was unpacking the grocery sacks, "Oh,
they didn't fix this, I did." The revelation shocked Sean and
Linden did his best to look hurt, "Don't look so surprised. I
promise it's completely edible. No one's died from my cooking
yet."

Sean looked apologetic, "I'm sorry Linden. I just never
expected..."

"...me to cook." his friend blushed. "It's okay Sean. I'm just
teasing you. If you want to set up the CD player that would be
great. There's a few cd's on the bag, choose whichever ones you
like." Sean moved obediently to the bag and removed several
Christmas CDs and placed one up on the player.



Soft instrumental music filled the apartment. He looked into the
basket again and withdrew a bottle of wine and two glasses and set
them on the table along with two thick red candles in silver
holders. Linden turned from the salad he was preparing and smiled
at Sean's back. His friend had set the candles on the table and
lit them and was admiring his handiwork.

"Looks great buddy." Sean jumped slightly at Linden's voice.
Linden just smiled and set the salad on the table. "Linden," Sean
asked hesitantly, "is there anything else I can do to help?"

"No. I think it's under control. You just relax, your part comes
after dinner...dishes."

Sean laughed and Linden's heart warmed at the rich tone of it. He
hurried in the final preparations, not wanting to let the food get
cold. He heard Sean setting the table and smiled to himself, it
felt so "right" being here tonight with him. He heard Sean begin
to softly sing along with the Christmas carols on the CD and
closed his eyes, listening to the warm baritone tone. The voice
was soft but sure and Linden wondered if Sean even realized he was
doing it.

Linden sighed contentedly and finished what he was doing. He
opened one of the grocery bags. He felt Sean's presence at his
shoulder and turned to face him, "The nurses in the hospital made
the cookies and thought that you might like it. You have become
the most sought-after non-doctor bachelor on the pediatric wing."

Sean flushed lightly at Linden's words. "I'm sorry Linden, I
didn't mean to be a nuisance."

"Hey no problem, bud, it give us doctors a chance to breathe once
in a while."

Linden unwrapped the cookies and groaned at the large heart shaped
one sitting on top of the others. The words 'For My Sean' and
several 'X-s' and 'O-s' were written neatly across it bright red
frosting, "Looks like Lucy made that one." Lucy was one of the
most persistent of Sean's admirers.

Sean looked at the large cookie, muttered "Oh dear" and turned
bright red. He looked at Linden nervously, "Ash. Is Lucy going to
be there tonight?"

"Yeah, but don't worry. The guy's under strict orders to restrict
her. The other nurses all put their foot down this time, something
about taking advantage of a minor..."

Sean's blush deepened and Linden lost his struggle to keep a
straight face. "Just kidding buddy. Well, if the table's ready I
think dinner is too."



Dinner was a quiet affair. They spoke of past holidays with family
and Linden couldn't believe how lonely Sean's holidays sounded. He
had always been surrounded by family, and guessed he had just
assumed that everyone else was too. He looked forward to Christmas
almost as much as the kids did. He just wished that he had kids of
his own at least then his marriage wouldn't have been such a
waste. Oh no, I'm not going to go there.Linden thought. He vowed
that he'd make sure Sean experience the same things he did when he
was young. Without thinking, he placed a comforting hand over his
companion's hand and squeezed lightly. Sean looked at him and the
sadness in those clear gray eyes almost broke Linden's heart.

Sean looked quickly away and withdrew his hand, "Thank you for
dinner Linden." "You're welcome Sean. shall we clean up here and
head to the Pool House?"

"Of course Linden." Sean gathered the dishes from the table and
placed them in the sink. He filled the basin with water and began
to wash them with detached efficiency.

The intimacy established during dinner was gone, replaced by an
awkward silence that grated on Linden's nerves. He crossed the
apartment to the CD player and switched it to radio, searching for
a local station playing Christmas music. He glanced out the
window, "Hey Sean, come here," he called excitedly, "it's
snowing."

"That isn't that uncommon this time of year Linden."

"Now who's being a Grinch? Get over here would ya? It's really
coming down."

Sean joined his friend by the window and looked out at the
swirling clouds of white. He wondered how long it had been
snowing. Judging by the light covering on the ground, it had not
been snowing long. He looked across at his companion and marveled
at the change in him.

Linden's whole face lit up as he watched the snow coming down. His
cynical, usually guarded face was watching the snow like a kid who
just heard school was cancelled. "It's going be a white Christmas
after all. The kids are going to be so pleased. Well, we'd better
get moving if we want to get out of here before it gets too bad."

Sean nodded and started to move back to the sink when a reflection
in the window's glass stopped him. Over the reflection of Linden's
face hung a bundle of greenery and white berries, the mistletoe
that Mrs Kitteridge had given him earlier in the week. He had put
the small sprig over the window to dry and had forgotten it was
there, now it seemed to beckon him towards Linden. He remembered
Joan's use of a similar sprig of mistletoe just last night. He
took a steadying breath and came to a decision, with deliberate
steps he moved back to Linden's side. Linden turned to meet him,
his gray-green eyes questioning, and Sean nearly lost his resolve.
Linden watched him closely, laying a steadying hand on his arm,

"Are you alright Sean?"

The gentle gesture was all it took. With trembling limbs, Sean
took one last step towards his Italian companion, leaned forward
and kissed the well loved lips. Linden's lips were warm and still
under his and Sean groaned inwardly at the lack of response. He
broke the brief contact and lowered his face, unable to meet his
friend's eyes. How could he have been so foolish? He knew that
Linden would never accept something like this, he only hoped his
own mistake had not cost him his only real best-friend. He started
to turn away but a strong hand caught his arm and held him in
place. He refused to look at Linden, not wanting to see the
disgust he knew he would find in those beautiful, expressive eyes.
He opened his mouth but his voice refused to come. He cleared his
throat and tried again, "I'm sorry Linden. I don't know what came
over me..."

"Sean, don't."

Sean's heart broke with those soft words. He couldn't stop the
silent tears that trickled down his cheeks, "I apol..." Long
fingers caught his chin and raised it while Linden's thumb press
lightly against his lips. Warm blue eyes searched his face and
Sean couldn't continue.

"Don't you ever say you're sorry."

Before Sean could react, those warm lips once again brushed his
own, but this time they were far from still. Linden's sensual lips
teased at his, his tongue flicking lightly against the corners of
Sean's mouth. Sean moaned and opened his lips to Linden's questing
tongue. Linden ran his fingers through Sean's thick hair, cupping
the back of his head, drawing him even closer. Strong arms wrapped
around Sean's slender waist as Linden clung to him like a drowning
man.

Tentatively, Sean explored Linden's mouth, teasing at the hot
moist warmth he found there. The arms around his waist tightened
and Linden could feel the evidence of Sean's arousal pressing
against his hip. He ended the kiss reluctantly but didn't take his
arms from around the slender form pressed close to him. He smiled
into those unnaturally bright green eyes and wiped at the tears
that fell silently down Sean's handsome face.

"It's alright Sean. It's alright."

Linden held Sean's trembling frame against him.

"Are you sure you're okay Sean. You feel a little shaky."

"It does seem a little hot in here Linden."

"I don't think it's the room buddy."

"I don't either," Running his hand lightly over Linden's slender
hip Sean searched his lover's face, trying to gauge the doctors's
reaction.

"Oh God Linden," he said full of fear, anxiety, and hope, "please
tell me it's true, please."

"It's true Sean," Linden assured him as he placed his hand on his
Sean's chest. The sheer emotion of the moment brought them both to
tears. Sean tested the waters by running his hand up the taller
man's arm and he smiled at him slightly. His lips parted and he
let out a sigh of amazement before moving his hands further around
the broad back and bringing himself closer to the man, holding him
in a in a firm yet gentle embrace. Linden's face was nuzzled into
the side of Sean's neck and he began kissing his friend's satiny
skin. A small moan of appreciation vibrated through Sean's broad
flat chest pressed against Linden's own.

Sean's hands rubbed up and down Linden's back as the doctor began
sucking at his neck, his own hands holding his firm body tight. He
brought his strong hands up to the blonde's head and brushed his
long fingers through the hair. It felt like an angel has caressed
him and he moved his lips from Sean's neck to sigh in his ear. He
cradled the head gently and brought their mouths together once
again, their lips parting, both tongues dueling.

He inhaled and felt the scent of Sean fill his lungs with the
warmth of love. With both their eyes closed and still locked in a
passionate kiss they stumbled towards the living room couch.
Linden could feel a heat building inside of him that was like
nothing he'd ever felt. His head was floating above his shoulders,
both legs turned to jelly, his whole being and existence was
centered on that deep kiss. Sean held him and as they bent over
they fell backwards onto the couch and - THUMP! - right onto the
floor.

Linden rolled off of Sean laughing as they coughed and as Sean
tried to catch his breath after being crushed beneath the larger
man's body, but he was laughing too. Both on a delirious high, the
huge release of all that tension and stress had swung us both men
the other extreme. They managed to crawl from the floor and sit on
the couch, slouching back, still giggling. Linden stared at Sean
laying on the floor, seeing all his beauty just as he had before,
but in a new light. I actually could have him! Sean thought to
himself. It was really happening, we were kissing and touching, in
each others arms and loving every second of it. His heart swelled
and he felt happier then he ever had in his 33 years.

Linden rolled onto his side as his laughing finally began to
subside. He gave the younger man the warmest smile the earth has
ever known, his brilliant green eyes looking right into him. A
smile back was the only answer he needed. Sean crawled over
Linden's feet, looking up at him like a adorable puppy, and he
slowly slid his hands up my legs, stopping just below my shorts.
He rested his head over Linden's knee and for once the dog did not
join the brawl, probably recognizing the moment as it is. Sean
searched the green-eyed man beside him, his eyes questioning
almost like he was asking for permission, but stayed silent.

On Linden's case, he just wanted to sit there gazing into his
lover's beautiful eyes forever. He ran his hands down the smooth,
strong arms and rubbed Sean's shoulders gently. A contented grin
crept across his lips but soon turned to a look of excitement as
he gathered the material of the man's shirt in his hands and began
to pull it up. Sean raised his arms allowing the doctor to pull
his shirt off over his head and then settled back into his resting
position. He leaned forward enough to unbotton the other man's
shirt off. Sean's fingers worked the zippers on Linden's slacks
loose and he slid them purposefully down the man's legs and off
his feet.

Linden sat there in his boxers as Sean stood and began to undo his
own clothing, but Linden stopped his hands and did it for him.
"Oh.God, Sean," was all he could whisper as he looked down at him
with amazement. He let his jeans drop to his feet and he stepped
out of them as he stared in awe at the tent in his boxers. "I knew
exactly what I wanted to do", he thought and I wanted to do it
with all my soul, but was almost scared to. "This is too good to
be true," he thought to himself, "this can't be happening". But it
was, the man that he wanted for so long, maybe unconsciously, was
standing before him, ready and waiting for him to make his move.
His eyes begged him and he could almost see his the younger man's
heart pounding in his chest. Carefully, so his hands wouldn't
shake too noticeably, he slid them up his thighs, up his hips and
up to his ribs.

Sean closed his eyes and took a deep breath, enjoying the touch
but becoming more tense as he waited. Then Linden gently took hold
of the waist band of his silk boxers and lowered them. He inhaled
quickly as his last piece of clothing was removed and Linden eyes
grew wide.

The man that stood before him, could have put Michaelangelo's
David to shame. Linden ran trembling fingers through the soft
blonde hair under his hands marveling at the silken feel of it.
His whole body was alight with familiar sensations. He could feel
the tension building in his genitals as Sean own hands caressed
his hip and back. He pressed his hips against the former,
shuddering at the white hot flash of passion that shot through
him, "Oh God Sean." Lips pressed lightly against his and he kissed
them hungrily. "You feel good Sean."

"Thank you Linden." Linden's deep laughter caught him off guard.
He looked at the man in confusion. "You are one in a million
Sean." Linden caressed the vision before him and began to kiss the
pale flesh once again. He pressed soft kisses against Sean's
collar bone, nuzzling the sensitive flesh where neck meets
shoulder. Then he moved lower, kissing and tonguing the wide
chest. He licked one flat nipple and was rewarded with a soft moan
from Sean. He nipped the small pink nub and watched it harden at
his touch. He sucked the erect nipple and felt a tremor pass
through his partner's body. He continued his assault on first one
nipple, then the other, until Sean arched against him panting in
need. Only then did Linden continued his downward exploration.
Linden soon knelt before his lover's form, planting feather light
kisses against Sean's abdomen and hip. Sean's erection brushed
against his cheek as he pressed his lips to the man's hip. He
heard Sean whimper at the brief contact. Linden kissed closer to
Sean's genitals, inhaling the musky odor of the other man's body.
He hesitated, unsure what to do. He reached out and ran his long
fingers down the exquisite shaft, watching the flesh jump at his
touch. He thought back to past lovers, drawing from how those
women had pleasured him this way, wanting to make this perfect for
his love.

Sean felt his hesitation, "Linden, you don't have to do this if
you're not comfor....Oh Linden!" His voice trailed off in a broken
groan as Linden engulfed him. The warmth of Linden's mouth drove
every coherent thought from his mind. He clutched at Linden's
strong shoulders, trying to maintain his balance against the flood
of sensation washing over him. He could feel the rush of passion
building deep within him. His body trembled uncontrollably as
Linden's tongue teased at the head of his throbbing erection,
bathing it with short, quick strokes then engulfing him, sucking
at the hyper-sensitive flesh. He felt his hips begin to move in
rhythm to Linden's sucking. He could feel the heady sensation of
his approaching orgasm.

"Linden..." he struggled to warn his attentive lover. The warm
mouth lifted from it's task just long enough to reassure him,
"It's okay Sean. Just relax, let it happen. It's okay. Let it go"
Linden kissed his lover's hip tenderly then resumed his attention
to the training manhood in front of him. He reached down and
cupped Sean's balls, caressing the delicate flesh just behind the
heavy sack. Sean's hips bucked wildly at the touch and Linden
increased the pressure of his stroking fingers. Sean's body
trembled and Linden wrapped a steadying arm around slender man's
waist. He felt Sean's balls tense and braced himself for the
incoming release. Sean cried out hoarsely as the orgasm racked his
strong body. Linden clutched at the rounded buttocks, as the first
spurt of Sean's seed filled his waiting mouth. He swallowed the
thick fluid reflexively, noting the flavor of it. He held Sean in
his mouth until the tremors of his orgasm eased. He ran his lips
slowly down the length of Sean's shrinking shaft, letting it slip
slowly from his warm mouth.

Sean slumped against him and Linden eased him slowly to the floor,
wrapping the spent body to his chest. Sean looked at his gentle
lover and caressed the beloved face, "Please tell me this isn't a
dream Linden. I'm scared that I'm going to wake up now and you'll
be gone." Linden hugged his flushed friend close, "It's not a
dream buddy. I'm right here." As if to prove this point, Linden
kissed the full lips, urging them open. Sean's tongue darted
forward, delving into Linden mouth, tasting himself on his lover's
tongue. The slender American wrapped strong arms around Linden's
larger form, then paused, "Linden. You're still quite dressed.",
looking at Linden's boxers. "Good observation buddy," Linden
joked. Sean reached between them and cupped the growing bulge in
Linden's underwear, "I think it's your turn now Linden. If that's
alright with you."

Linden sighed as the strong hand cupped and fondled him, "Please
Sean." Sean finished removing Linden's boxer and folded it neatly
beside the strewn clothing around them, carefully. Rising, he
motioned for Linden to follow him. The doctor followed eagerly as
Sean led him into the bedroom. The single bed looked barely big
enough for him, let alone for the two of them, but Linden didn't
care. He just wanted to feel those hands holding him, caressing
him, loving him. He stood uncertainly at the end of the bed as
Sean sat and removed his socks. Without a word the Sean beckoned
Linden to him. Linden stood before the glorious male, head held
high, eyes locked with his lover's. Sean never broke that contact,
It was his turn to blush as Sean's eyes roamed up and down his
form. He was suddenly self-conscious under the intense gaze and
tried to turn away. Smooth hands caught his hips and pulled him
towards the bed and his lover's embrace. The feel of warm flesh
pressed against him made him moan aloud. Soft lips kissed his
chest and toyed with his masculine nipples. "You are as beautiful
as I imagined Linden. Even more so because you're really here."
Sean's words broke through Linden's fear and he clung to his lover
tightly. No words were needed as Sean caressed and aroused his
passionate lover. He cupped the perfectly formed buttocks,
squeezing them lightly, delighting in the feel of the smooth skin
under his hands. He kissed the broad chest,feeling the muscles
tense beneath the olive flesh. He caressed the strong arms and
back. He kissed the well known face, running gentle hands over the
distinctive features as if trying to imprint them forever into his
memory. He pulled the unresisting doctor to the bed, wanting to
feel Linden against him, needing to feel him. Linden curled
against his chest, entwining his long powerful legs with Sean's,
pressing their bodies together tightly.

Sean could feel the hardness of Linden's erection pressed between
their bodies and positioned his own rapidly stiffening shaft
against that silken steel. He heard Linden's sharp intake of
breath as the heads of their cocks brushed together, sending
erotic electricity shooting through them both. Sean kissed Linden
deeply plunging his tongue in and out of man's moist heat. He
moved his hips against Linden's, matching his rhythm to the
thrusting of his tongue. Linden clung to him, his breath coming in
ragged gasps as his own hips began to move. His body arched
against Sean, and he cried out his friend's name like a prayer. He
felt Sean's manhood, hard and solid against his, and delighted in
the knowledge that he could bring this man such pleasure. Strong
hands clutched at him, anchoring him, allowing him to give in to
the sensations running rampant through his body. He heard himself
cry out Sean's name as his body shook uncontrollably against
Sean's smooth, hot flesh. Small, delicate hands caught his face
and found himself looking into passion glazed green eyes that he
know so well,

"I love you Linden."

"I love you too Sean." he whispered as he felt the first wave of
release hit him. He buried his face in Sean's shoulder, "Oh
God,....!" His lovers name fell from his lips like a prayer as he
spent himself against the solid wall of his lover's body as they
both fell asleep in one another's arms.




EPILOGUE

Linden awoke several hours later, alone on Sean's bed, covered
with a warm blanket. He remembered holding Sean in his arms and
falling to sleep holding that smooth strong body. He stretched
languidly and looked around the room for his clothing. He found
one of Sean's shirts and his own slacks folded neatly beside the
bed and smiled at his lover's thoughtfulness. His lover. He liked
the sound of that. He would never regret what had happened between
them tonight, and he hoped Sean wouldn't either. When he had
looked in to those uncertain green eyes and saw the depths of love
shining in them, he knew this was where he belonged. He had never
been more sure of anything in his life. He pulled on the soft
shirt, inhaling deeply at the scent that clung to it, Sean's
scent. He tugged the slacks on and wandered out to find his
missing lover.

Sean sat at the table writing in his diary. Linden stood silently
in the doorway, watching his handsome lover with a contented
smile. Murphy wandered over and nuzzled at his hand, begging for
attention. Linden reached down and scratched the dog's large head.

Sean turned at the motion and smiled warmly at Linden, "Good
evening Linden. Did you sleep well?"

Linden crossed to the table and sat down beside his friend, "Like
a baby Sean. Why didn't you wake me? We're suppose to be at the
pool house this evening."

"It's still early. Besides I don't think we'll be going anywhere
for a while. Go take a look outside." Linden wandered to the
window and looked out on the white landscape. It must have been
snowing steadily since they'd finished dinner. Sean was right, he
doubted they would be going anywhere, at least not until morning.
He felt strong arms wrap around his waist and leaned back against
Sean's chest, "It's so beautiful Sean. Funny how I never seemed to
notice it before. But then, I seem to do that a lot."

"What do you mean Linden?"

Linden turned in Sean's embrace and ran his hand lightly down his
lover's handsome face, "Joan was right. It was right in front of
my face and I almost missed it. I'm glad I didn't." He kissed Sean
softly, relaxing into the comfortable embrace. He stood silently
in Sean's arms for a few moments then stepped back,

"I should call Ethan and tell him that we won't be over tonight."
As he reached for the cell phone it rang sharply. He jumped and
opened the phone cautiously, "Hello?" There was a slight pause and
then a smile spread over Linden's features, "Yeah Ethan, we're
fine. We got distracted after dinner and lost track of the time."

Sean nearly choked on the mouthful of water he had just taken.

"You know Sean and his stories." Linden shot a naughty smile at
his blushing companion as he listened to his friend on the other
end of the phone. "Don't worry , we'll stay put. I don't think we
have much choice right now. We'll see you as soon as the streets
are cleared." He added under his breath, "In this area that could
be sometime next year." Sean smiled at his friend's complaint,
then laughed at Linden's next words, "No tell Matt. I was just
joking, We should be there sometime in the morning....Yeah, I'll
tell him... Merry Christmas. Tell the guys to not enjoy themselves
too much." A pause. "Yes Doc. I promise. Good night." Linden hung
up the phone and turned to face Sean, "Well it looks like you're
stuck with me a little longer Sean. By the way, Joan said to stay
put until morning."

Sean smiled at his light haired lover, "Joan is very wise woman
Linden."

"Yeah, I think so. I'm also suppose to tell you Merry Christmas
for her and she said that we ought to thank John and Mikey."

"What was that about?" Linden moved to Sean's side and put his
arms around the slender man. He couldn't seem to get enough of his
handsome friend. He kissed the upturned lips and felt his body
stirring yet again as Sean's body pressed against him. He took the
delicate hand in his and led Sean back into the bedroom.
