Mark and Rye

Okay the usual stuff that nobody reads. This is a gay story with lots of gay sex. If you aren't supposed to be here, leave. The work is mine and unless you ask you can't post it anywhere else. I have no clue if any member of Westlife is gay, so this is all my fantasy. Also, as far as I know Nick Carter is not gay either. Email me at rye_encoke@hotmail.com to tell me what you like or hate.

The author wishes to acknowledge and thank the archivist for Nifty for allowing this story to be published here.

Authors Notes: Sorry for the delay, but here is the next chapter. Hope you enjoy it.

DEDICATION: To Davey and his new love. To Glenn. Love ya both, always and forever.

• Coffee Talk -

Nicky woke to the gentle caresses of his lovers. Bryan's soft lips on Nicky's neck, Shane's head resting on Nicky's chest with his hands tracing small circles on Nicky's tummy.

"Morning my loves," Nicky said.

"Morning Love," Bryan responded and placed his head on Nicky's chest, pulling himself close.

"Ready to get up and tell us all about your adventures?" Shane asked.

"Yeah. It was so amazing. I had the best time ever," Nicky said and started to cry, although he had a beautiful smile on his face as well.

"Hey it's okay our love. We are so happy for you. It's okay to cry a bit, Angel has that effect on all of us," Bryan softly cooed.

"I can't believe he let me do all that. You know he let me spend over 6 million dollars?" Nicky said and tensed a bit waiting for Shane's anger.

"He said last night, but he wouldn't tell us any more. He said it was your adventure to tell. Come on get up we will get breakfast and you wake everyone else up. We still have to fill you guys in on our night and the little impromptu concert we are putting on this afternoon," Shane said then sat up and kissed both his lovers before grabbing some sweat pants and putting them on.

"Yep come on Nicky Love," Bryan hopped out of bed and threw on his boxers.

Nicky was surprised that Shane wasn't mad but he suddenly became almost deliriously happy as well.

The three men trooped out to the lounge where Matt, Andy, Ed and Jay were sitting.

"Morning guys," Bryan said as he leaned forward and kissed Andy sweetly then turned to kiss Matt.

"Morning. Sorry about last night. We didn't think you would mind then we just fell asleep and figured you guys would wake us when you wanted to kick us out," Ed said then smiled as Shane then Nicky kissed him good morning.

"Nah it was cool. We know the bunks on the other busses suck for making out. We took Mark and Rye's room and they bunked in with Kian and Jill," Bryan said.

"So we heard you had quite the adventure last night Nicky. Once Rye and Mark come back with breakfast you can tell us all about it," Jay said.

"Oh they are up? Yeah it was amazing, I can't wait to tell you all about it," Nicky gushed as he took a seat on the floor between Shane's legs who was sitting on the sofa. Bryan lay down with his head in Nicky's lap.

"Morning all," Jill said as she came into the lounge, her hair still damp from her shower.

"Morning Beauty, where's Sweets?" Bryan asked.

Jill smiled at Bryan, "Just finishing drying, he'll be out soon. So heard you had a great time Nicky. Rye wouldn't tell us much, he wanted to let you tell it, but I do know you did something wonderful for two of my friends. You did a great thing Nicky Love."

On the floor Nicky blushed and Bryan raised up to kiss him sweetly.

"What's that for?" Nicky asked with a smile.

"For whatever you did for Jill's friends and just cuz I love ya," Bryan giggled.

"Breakfast!" Mark's voice yelled into the bus. Mark and Rye soon entered the lounge carrying about a dozen large bags.

"Mmmm, smells good what is it?" Bryan asked as he took the bag given him by Mark.

"We were gonna do Mickey D's but on the way there we saw this little bakery advertising fresh breakfast specials. Everyone has a container. It's a fresh croissant with apple-cinnamon butter, fresh fruit in a light cream, and a hazelnut hot cocoa," Rye answered.

"Mmmmmmmm," Jill closed her eyes as she bit into the croissant.

"This is great," Jay said around a mouthful of fruit and berries.

Nicky stood up and enveleoped Mark in a hug, holding him close. Mark hugged him back, uncertain about what it was all about, but sharing his love with his brother.

"Your man is amazing. Thank you for sharing him with us. I love you Mark for everything of yourself that you share with us, for everything that makes you you," Nicky said.

"Wow! That's amazing Nicky. Just last night I was thinking almost those exact same words. When Mark volunteered us to do the concert for the school, instead of being pissed I just felt so happy. It was because of just what you said. Mark just gives so freely of himself," Shane said then jumped up and threw his arms around Mark as well.

Everyone quickly jumped up and followed suit. Mark was feeling overwhelmed and let himself be held by his brothers as he felt himself suffused with love.

"Thank you Nicky Love," Mark finally whispered.

Everyone took their seats again.

"Okay, let's hear about everyone's evening. I think if we don't let Nicky tell first he may explode. So it's your show Nicky Love," Shane said.

"Okay well first Angel has his jets following us around so we hopped on the plane and flew to, well I don't actually know where, but there is this huge Scottish castle out there somewhere with it's own private runway," Nicky gestured vaguely.

"A real Scottish castle?" Ed asked.

"Yeah. Alex, that's who put on the auction, he had it rebuilt stone by stone. It has a moat and gardens and real suits of armor. It was amazing. So anyway once we get to the castle we meet the prince..."

"The prince?" Mark interrupted.

"Prince Hassan, but I call him Sadik which means friend. We talked about everything. I told him about all of us and our lives. He is so wonderful. He reminds me of that prince in Lawrence of Arabia. And he is very attractive. He has this very very long hair that feels so soft..."

"You touched his hair?" Rye asked sounding surprised.

"Yeah," Nicky responded.

"Wow that is totally forbidden. I mean it goes against just about every law there is including several religious ones," Jill said.

"Yeah well I am sure him being gay goes against a bunch of those laws too but that didn't stop him kissing me or Alex," Nicky said.

"You kissed him?" Shane said with a raised eyebrow.

"Okay we are jumping ahead a bit. You see we were talking about Mark and Rye and me and my boys and I could tell he was hiding something so I just asked him. He said it wasn't allowed in his country. I invited him to walk with me in the garden and told him that I knew my lovers would allow me to show him what it was like to kiss a man, a real kiss. I asked him to take off the wrappings on his head and I touched his hair, it smelled wonderful too. Then I kissed him. It must have been really good for him cuz he came," Nicky said.

"You do have some talent in the kissing department," Bryan tried to be serious but broke down into giggles.

Nicky smiled and punched Bryan lightly in the shoulder.

"Well by that time Alex and Rye were standing at the door to the garden and I went to Rye as Alex went to Sadik. They are together now," Nicky finished.

"So you brought two people together?" Jay asked.

"He brought two people together who have loved each other for some time but due to circumstances were never able to do anything about it. Hassan is going to leave his title and his money behind and live with his new lover," Rye smiled.

"How will he do that? They won't let him do it," Jill argued.

"He's figured out a way. Later this week we will see on the news that the private jet of Prince Hassan has gone down over the ocean or in the mountains somewhere. There will be no survivors," Rye said.

"He is giving up all his money and his titles?" Andy asked.

"Most of it yes. Over the next two days he will be selling off his vast wine collection as well as some properties. The sales of the properties are real and will be conducted in cash. In theory the money will be lost in the crash, in reality they will be deposited in numbered accounts for Hassan. His wine collection will be purchased by me but will actually merely be transported to Alex's vault," Rye explained.

"I didn't know all that," Nicky said.

"Your Sadik wanted me to be sure to fill you in so when the news broke you wouldn't be upset. You and your lovers are invited to Alex's this weekend by the way to mourn the passing of Prince Hassan," Rye smiled.

Bryan pulled Nicky close, "You saved a man Nicky Love."

"What? No I didn't," Nicky look confused.

Shane moved to wrap his arms around Nicky.

"Bry boy is right. You saved him. Saved him from a life with no love, a life not worth living. He lost some money and his titles, but he now has real love. What an incredible thing you did Nicky Love," Shane said softly.

"The boys are right. In all the ways that are important you changed Hassan's life. You did a really good thing Nicky," Jill smiled.

Nicky basked in the love of his lovers for a bit.

"Tell everyone who else you met Love," Rye encouraged.

"Okay well their was a Japanese businessman named Ling. He was very nice and quite funny. He owns like all the media in Japan," Nicky said.

"Well he owns a great deal of the media, but not quite all," Rye corrected.

"Then I met Francis Ford Coppola, I even got his autograph. And guess what? He is like this huge fan of ours. He knows who we are and invited us to visit him when we get time off," Nicky said excitedly.

"No shit?" Mark asked.

"Seriously. He invited all of us for a week or two, I even have his cell phone number. He knows all about us too, like I mean our relationships. Everybody that was there knows. But can you believe it? He listens to our music and is like a huge fan," Nicky gushed.

"Wow. That's so amazing. I can hardly wait to meet him," Shane said.

"Then guess who I met?" Nicky paused for effect, "Sophia Loren!"

"Oh my God!" Jill almost shouted.

"I got her autograph as well and she took mine. She said we should all come to visit her sometime and see her vineyards. She is so beautiful guys. One of the most beautiful women I have ever met and soooo nice," Nicky said.

"Geez who else was there?" Matt asked. He was as excited as any of them.

"Yeah you guys are so lucky," Andy said.

Everyone's smile faded a bit as they looked at their friends.

"You guys are coming too you know," Nicky said.

"What?" Jay sat up with a look of disbelief and hope on his face.

"Sure. I told them all about you four and Alex and Carl and Simon and Cleo. We can bring anyone we want. Francis made a point of making sure I understood that I could bring anyone I wanted since he knew how important friends outside of the business were. God you guys, you think I would be talking like this in front of you if you weren't included?" Nicky said.

"Nicky Love. How were they to know? Remember when I accidentally made you think you weren't invited to the auction?" Rye said gently.

Nicky blushed and nodded, "Sorry guys. You know you are our friends right? Once this tour is over you just don't disappear into the crowd. We want you with us. Look at all we have shared. We can't just give up our friends."

Matt, who was a big softie at heart, almost threw himself into Nicky's arms. Nicky smiled and hugged the large man to him.

"You guys are awesome," Andy said as he pulled Matt back to him.

"You guys too," Bryan said as he retook his place in Nicky's arms.

Everyone just smiled at each other for a bit.

"Okay the last person that was there was another prince, but one that I already knew. Prince Albert of Monaco," Nicky said.

"Cool. How is he doing?" Shane asked. Everyone noticed how calmly the boys seemed to take this final guest, although everyone else was quite awestruck that a prince, well one who they knew by name, was there.

"He's doing well. He sends his love and wanted to know about us performing again this fall at the ball. I said I was pretty sure we would but that I'd have to check," Nicky said and looked around to see the others all nod their heads.

"Yeah of course. Any charity for kids is worth the time," Mark nodded.

"Hey you know what he told me? I mentioned that Rye donates to children's charities as well. He knew all about it and said Rye helped him organize the trust," Nicky said.

"Nicky," Rye started to say but Nicky kept right on going.

"Then he said that he can't contribute on the scale that Rye does but that every little bit helps," Nicky finished and looked at Rye to see a frown of disapproval.

"Really?" Kian said and looked at Rye as well. All the boys knew the amount that the Prince's Trust donated and it was no small amount.

"Wow," Bryan said as he turned to Rye.

Rye looked unhappy and got up and left for the back of the bus.

"Oh no," Nicky said. His spirits fell and his heart hurt.

"It's okay Nicky Love. Give us about 10 minutes then you all come back okay?" Mark said as he followed Rye.

Nicky just nodded, his face now sad and all the joy gone from his eyes.

• First Fight -

Mark walked into the quiet room at the back of the bus to see Rye sitting down with a frown on his face. He sat in front of Rye on the floor and looked into Rye's eyes.

"You know I love you my Angel," Mark said, more a statement than a question.

"Yes," Rye answered.

"Okay just so you know," Mark paused and took a deep breath, "For someone as loving and caring as you are, sometimes you can be a real ass. You just totally destroyed Nicky over something so stupid I just want to smack you."

Rye's mouth dropped and his eyes got big as he listened to the anger Mark was directing at him.

"You made a point of telling us not to be upset about Nicky spending so much money on the wine so that we wouldn't spoil his moment. Then you turn around and do it yourself. We all know you have money. We all know you give a lot of it to charities. It makes us proud to know you do those things and that you are our love. But Jesus Rye, what the fuck difference does it make what Nicky said. You did the same thing to me, making me keep a secret about your talent. It's all well and good to not broadcast it to the world, and to not make it a big deal so that it becomes all we think about. But we are your friends and lovers and to make us try to keep it secret or pretend it isn't there is just wrong. It separates us instead of bringing us closer."

Mark was getting wound up now and tears were falling from his eyes as he unloaded on Rye.

"Did you think about how you made me feel when you asked me not to tell my best friends about something so wonderful about my lover? Did you know that when you keep from us that you give money to people to help them that you make us feel less, like you don't or won't trust us? Do you know how unworthy you make us feel when you do that? How do you think it makes us feel when you won't share your music with us? Us, whose life is music. Sometimes you try so hard to protect yourself or us that you actually end up hurting us all more. You can't do it any more Rye."

Mark finally stopped. The tears falling from his eyes matched Rye's as the two lovers sat and stared at each other.

"Oh God I'm so sorry," Rye wailed as he flung himself onto Mark, literally knocking him backwards. Rye was crying uncontrollably and Mark held him and rocked him. He realized how upset Rye was as Rye had lost all strength and was like a dead weight in his arms.

"It's okay baby, it's okay. You didn't mean it to be mean, you are just so used to hiding some stuff that you didn't think," Mark cooed.

Mark looked up as everyone entered the quiet room. Nicky was the first to wrap Rye in his arms.

"Nickeeeeee," Rye wailed as he clung to Nicky.

"What happened?" Jill asked as she held onto Mark who was crying and looked like he needed to be held.

"I got mad at him and told him how he was hurting us with some of the things he tries to keep from us. I don't think he thought of what he was doing and it just affected him really badly," Mark said.

"Did you have to do that to him?" Bryan asked. Bryan was upset, well everyone was, but just wasn't sure what to do. He was kinda pissed that Mark had made Rye cry but he also agreed with Mark that some things shouldn't be hidden between them all.

"Yeah I sorta did. I told him he can't keep hiding his money or what he does with it, at least not from us. Or at least when we find out something like we just did he can't be pissed. He really spoiled Nicky's day by what he did and that was really unfair," Mark said and Rye, who had started to calm down, began to cry heavily again and clung to Nicky even tighter.

"And when he asked me to keep it secret just how talented he is musically, it hurt me so much to have to keep it from you all. I let it slip to Boyo and I felt bad because I had told his secret but I also felt bad that I had been asked to keep it secret. So there will be no more secrets between any of us about anything. Starting with Rye is indeed a musical genius. He can literally play any musical instrument known to man," Mark announced.

"Angel, you have to stop crying now okay. You are gonna make yourself sick and it's all over now. Okay? Please, for me?" Nicky asked.

Rye nodded and gulped a few times, his body continued to heave with emotion but he finally quieted.

"I I I'm sorry Nicky. I didn't m m mean to spoil your day," Rye stuttered out. He was looking very unpretty but Nicky smiled and pulled Rye's head to his chest.

"It's okay my sweet beautiful Angel. For so long you had to protect yourself and it's just hard getting past it all. It's true you hurt me, I thought my heart would break when you looked upset and left, but I know you love me and we are good again. Remember you told me once that I can always just assume I am forgiven when I mess up. Well you too, you're always forgiven," Nicky said.

"Yeah Angel it's okay. This is like the first time you have ever messed up and you are due. Remember I am like a couple of dozen mess-ups ahead of you," Bryan giggled and reached across to gently rub Rye's foot.

Rye nodded on Nicky's chest.

"Everyone okay now?" Kian asked and smiled as everyone nodded.

"Wow that was so intense. Thank God you guys work things out fast," Andy exhaled loudly and snuggled back into Matt's arms. This had been very stressful to him and he needed to be held. Matt realized this, since it had affected him greatly as well, and wrapped himself around Andy protectively.

"Here's a damp cloth," Jay said and handed it to Nicky who moved Rye's head so that he could clean him up.

"I'm s s sorry fella," Rye stuttered out.

"Ah my Angel. I love you forever," Mark smiled as he came to sit on the other side of Rye and held him as Nicky washed his face.

Rye let himself be held by the two men and just listened to everyone as they talked. Everyone talked about how they spent the previous evening. Kian and Bryan's story got chuckles and some ooh's and aah's as they talked about Carl and Alex. Mark's story of Jamie got applause, and then smiles as he described Scottie. The afternoon concert plans were discussed. Through it all both Nicky and Mark softly caressed and kissed Rye. Bryan had tried to get close to hug Rye but neither Mark nor Nicky would move away so he contented himself to laying his head in Rye's lap and gently rubbing Rye's legs.

"We have a few hours till lunch then we should head out. I think Angel needs to lie down and recover a bit. Why don't the rest of us head out for a bit to just sight see and we can bring lunch back," Jill suggested.

"Okay, who gets to stay with Angel?" Bryan asked.

"I am staying," Mark answered.

"Angel you know you are completely forgiven and that I love you forever right?" Nicky asked and smiled as Rye nodded.

"That's good. I don't think all of us will fit on the bed so how bout we let Bry boy stay okay. He needs to hold you and be held by you. You and I are good again but Bry boy needs some Angel time, okay?" Nicky asked.

Rye nodded and leaned forward to kiss Nicky softly.

"You know for someone who just about cried himself into a coma, you look pretty good. I wish I could do that. I start to cry and I look like someone has beat me," Jill joked as she looked at Rye who looked remarkably good now that the crying had stopped and his face had been wiped.

"Come on Bry boy, carry Angel to the bed for me," Mark said.

Bryan jumped up and lifted an unprotesting Rye into his arms. One by one everyone came to Rye and kissed him.

"Love you Angel. Thank you for everything you have ever done for us," Nicky said as he kissed Rye softly.

"Love you Angel. Get some rest okay," Shane said as he placed his kiss.

"You're our Angel forever, love you," Kian said, kissing Rye's lips.

"You're such a drama queen. Now no sharing, just resting," Jill giggled then kissed Rye. Rye smiled and blushed at the teasing.

"For a multi-billionaire you cry a little too easily. But at least you are cute," Ed joked as he kissed Rye. Rye actually laughed as did Bryan.

"Be better. We all love you," Jay kissed Rye.

"Thank you for everything you have done for me and Matt. I love you too you know," Andy said quietly and kissed Rye.

"You are such a good man Rye. Just relax and let it all go. Everybody here loves you. I love you too," Matt said then kissed Rye.

"Come on Bry boy, let's lay our Angel down and heal our spirits," Mark said.

"Wow that sounded so corny Mark," Bryan chuckled, "but also so right."

They went to the bedroom and gently stripped Rye down before stripping off themselves. They lay on either side of Rye and held him close, feeding him their love. Soon all three men had fallen asleep, wrapped together in a beautiful scene of what love is really all about.

• The Rest of the Gang -

"That was pretty intense. Is everyone okay? Anyone need to be held a bit or anything?" Jill asked.

"Ummmm," Andy said softly.

"You okay kitten?" Shane asked as Matt once again wrapped Andy in his arms.

"Yeah...no....I'm not sure," Andy said then turned into Matt.

"Okay kitten, you and Matt come lie down with Nicky and me for a bit," Shane soothed.

"Yeah come on, cuddle time is always nice," Nicky said.

"Umm, you two want to cuddle with us for a bit? Instead of going out I mean," Jay asked of Jill and Kian.

"You okay Jay baby?" Jill asked.

"Sort of. You're right though, it was pretty intense. Like when he connects with you and you can feel his love. I think some of his sadness did the same," Jay said.

"Okay, do we all want to hang out in here? I mean grab some pillows and blankets and throw the cushions on the floor?" Kian asked.

"Is that okay kitten? Or would you like some private time?" Nicky asked of Andy.

"Everyone together would be better," Andy said.

Quickly pillows, cushions and blankets were spread around and everyone cuddling together. Matt and Shane had Andy in the middle with Nicky holding Shane. Everyone else cuddled up and soon everyone was sleeping. This is how Simon and Cleo found everyone.

"Damn I hate when we miss cuddle time," Simon joked.

"You guys can still join in," Jill said sleepily.

"Maybe later. You guys all gonna travel tonight in the big bus?" Cleo asked.

"Probably. You wanta join us?" Shane asked, now also awake.

"Sure. Alex and Carl too?" Simon asked.

"Why not. We don't do anything tomorrow, the next concert is Thursday," Shane answered.

"Okay, let's make it a pj party. We can bring the cushions and stuff from the other bus too. You guys wake up a bit while we go grab Carl and Alex and get lunch. Are we all going to the theater?" Cleo asked.

"Yeah you guys come too," Nicky said.

"Heard you had a good night last night Nicky. Gonna tell us about it over lunch?" Simon asked.

"Yeah! It was so amazing. Hurry back," Nicky's excitement was back.

• We've Got a Really Big Shew -

The line of vans wove through the streets ferrying Westlife and security to the theater. They drove past the theater once and realized there was no sign of any media.

"Looks good. Let's drop everyone off and park the vehicles," Ed said into a walkie talkie.

The seven vans stopped in front of the theater and the group was soon inside the theater being moved to the backstage area.

"Scottie!" Jill called out and waved.

"Hey boyband babe. See you brought the rest of the eye candy with ya," Scottie said as he strode through the wall of security like they weren't there.

Everyone looked at each other with raised eyebrows. The descriptions of Scottie had not done him justice. He oozed self confidence and charm and won even Ed over who grinned at the youngster.

"Mark!" Jamie shouted and launched himself into Mark's arms.

"Heya Pan Man." Mark smiled and Jamie giggled.

"Hiya. I'm MC for the show. You guys have 5 spots. Come on I'll show you where you fit into the lineup," Jamie grabbed onto Mark's hand and started to drag him away.

"Hey Pan, don't you want to meet everyone else?" Mark asked.

"Oh yeah, sorry," Jamie stopped and turned and for the first time saw Rye as he stepped out from behind Matt.

"Holy shit, it's Angel," Jamie breathed.

"Hi Jamie, I've heard a lot of good things about you," Rye said as he came forward and hugged Jamie to him. He felt the boy melt in his arms.

"I can't believe you all came," Jamie whispered.

"You okay Pan?" Mark asked as he put a hand on Jamie's shoulder. Mark was hoping that the nickname he was using would catch on with Scottie and some of the others.

"Yeah," Jamie said as he stepped back. Rye kept an arm around his waist and Mark placed his arm around Jamie's shoulder.

"Okay you met Shane and I am sure you know Kian, Nicky and Bryan," Mark introduced.

"Hiya buddy," Bryan said as he came forward and gave Jamie a kiss on the cheek then ruffled his hair. "You're pretty cute."

Jamie blushed deeply, "Thanks."

"These are some of our friends and security," Shane said as he completed the introductions.

"So what's this about 5 spots in the lineup? I though we were putting on a show?" Nicky said.

"Pffft...the ego's of stars these days," Scottie said.

Bryan cuffed him on the back of the head then grinned at the look of righteous indignation.

"What was that for?" Scottie asked.

"For calling us stars. We are Superstars," Bryan puffed out his chest and looked around. Everyone burst into laughter.

"Well when we knew you were going to perform we all wanted to join in. So we decided that we would do a variety type show. There are 25 performances and you get 5 spots. Everyone else put their names in a hat and were picked randomly that way it was fair," Jamie explained.

"Yeah but nobody who is in the play can be in the show," Scottie added, "and let me tell you Donna was pissed."

"Okay let's see the lineup so we can figure out what we want to do," Mark said.

"Oh yeah and you guys will have a band if you want, or Angel can play for you like you said," Scottie offered as he led the way to the announcer's podium.

The group looked at the list and saw the names and performances listed.

"Scottie you play classical guitar?" Rye asked with a tremor in his voice.

"Yeah, that's what I study. I love it, have been playing since I was 5. Why? You play?" Scottie asked.

"Scottie you have no idea," Jill smiled happily, "how would you feel about a duet during one of our slots?"

Scottie looked at Rye as if weighing his talent then shrugged, "Sure why not. What do you want to play?"

Rye had not been fooled. He had seen the moment of panic in Scottie's eyes. He wracked his brain for a suitable piece. Something hard enough not to insult the young guitarist but not so hard he might fail.

"Do you know Lara's Theme?" Rye asked. Scottie's eyes brightened.

"Yeah I play it for Donna all the time, but I've never had another player to play it with. That would be so cool. Can I dedicate it to her?" Scottie asked.

"Of course, I'll do anything for romance," Rye smiled.

They had come there thinking they were doing a full show but now had to pick and choose their performances. Soon though the slots were filled.

• First Slot -

"Good evening students, teachers, friends and family. Welcome to a special night where some of us will be performing along with some celebrity friends," Jamie announced.

"You go Pan man!" Scottie's voice shouted out from backstage which got laughter from the crowd.

But Scottie had accomplished what Mark had been trying to do. The kids in the crowd started clapping and stomping and chanting, "Pan, Pan, Pan,"

Jamie blushed and finally held his hand up for quiet, the crowd cheered wildly and then settled.

"Thanks all. Okay well to open our show here are our guests. They will open our show the way they do their own show. Here is Angel, Beauty and Westlife, singing Lean On Me," Jamie began to clap as the lights dimmed and the curtains opened.

Rye stepped forward, alone on the stage so far.

"Thank you all for having us here tonight. This song means a lot to us. It describes our love for each other as friends and beyond. Tonight we want to dedicate this song to some new friends. This song is dedicated to Scottie, his girl Donna and Jamie, the Pan himself," Rye stepped back and began to sing.

Sometimes in our lives

We all have pain

We all have sorrow

But if we are wise

We know that there's

Always tomorrow

Mark walked on and joined in.

Lean on me

When you're not strong

I'll be your friend

I'll help you carry on

For it won't be long

Till I'm gonna need

Somebody to lean on

Jill and Kian walked on the stage from opposite sides.

Please swallow your pride

If I have things

You need to borrow

For no one can fill

Those of your needs

That you won't let show

Finally the rest of the boys joined their friends on stage.

You just call on me brother

When you need a hand

We all need somebody

To lean on

I just might have a problem

That you'll understand

We all need somebody to lean on

Lean on me

When you're not strong

I'll be your friend

I'll help you carry on

For it won't be long

Till I'm gonna need

Somebody to lean on

You just call on me brother

When you need a hand

We all need somebody to lean on

I just might have a problem

That you'll understand

We all need somebody to lean on

If there is a load

You have to bare

That you can't carry

I'm right up the road

I'll share your load

If you just call me

Call Me

If you need a friend

The crowd stood and cheered.

"Thanks all. We hope everyone enjoys the show. Now back to you Pan," Bryan grinned as he pointed over to Jamie.

• Second Slot -

"Alright! Thanks Janice and Susan for that great performance," Jamie applauded along with the audience.

"Wow this is incredible. I am so glad we came. I have never seen dancing like that before," Byran was applauding along with everyone else.

"Yeah it was great," Jill agreed.

"Oh it's Scottie's turn," Kian pointed to Scottie sitting on a stool behind the curtain now.

Out front Jamie began the introduction, "And now I have a very special introduction. This next performance is by my very best friend, although I didn't know he was that until just yesterday. I want to introduce a friend I love more than anyone else for his support and friendship but also for his amazing talent. Here is Scottie Daniels playing the song Spanish Guitar by the Gypsy Kings."

The group looked at Scottie who had quickly wiped a tear from his eye before the curtain opened.

Everyone listened with rapt attention as Scottie played the difficult piece, and played it flawlessly.

"He's good," Mark whispered.

"He's brilliant," Rye whispered back. The boys knew that coming from Rye this meant something. The boy had some real talent for sure.

When he finished the crowd stood and cheered as Scottie took his bow. Before Scottie could leave Jamie was speaking again.

"Wow that was incredible. Now for another treat. Angel and Scottie are going to play together. We will let them introduce the piece they have chosen," Jamie said.

Rye walked onto the stage where a second stool was now being placed beside Scottie's. He immediately shook Scottie's hand warmly.

"That was utterly amazing Scottie, you are brilliant," Rye said so that only Scottie could hear. Scottie smiled brightly and they both sat.

"Okay this next piece I play for my girl whenever she asks but only being played by one guitar it just doesn't do it justice. So when Mr. Studly next to me said he can play a bit this is what we came up with. So here is Lara's Theme played the way it should be. I am dedicating this to two people. To my girl Donna, and to my boy Jamie," Scottie said.

Backstage the boys all looked at each other then over at Jamie who was in obvious shock.

"Ummm....I thought he was just gonna dedicate it to Donna?" Nicky asked.

"He was. I think Scottie, Jamie and Donna are going to be having a talk in the near future. Hopefully nobody is going to be too hurt," Jill said.

Bryan looked at Jill and asked, "Do you know who he is going to pick?"

Jill looked at Bryan a little surprised. He had quickly picked up on what was going on.

"I think I know but I wouldn't want to say right now," Jill answered.

Everyone turned back to the stage as the two performers began. The song was beautiful, but being played by two masters like this, the song was almost divine. In tribute to the performance it was several minutes before the audience responded but when they did it was thunderous. Rye watched Scottie's face light up with the applause and leaned forward to hug him.

"However this works out for you, you always have us for friends, and we will help you all through it when it's time," Rye said.

Scottie looked surprised and a little confused but nodded, "Kay. Thanks."

"Ladies and gentlemen, Angel and my friend Scottie," Jamie's emotional voice was heard over the crowd who roared again.

• Slot 3 -

The show was more than half over now and the boys had seen everything from stand up comedy, to ballet. Their next performance was up and it was going to be something special. The boys all took stools to the side of the stage. Rye stood on one side of the stage while Jill was on the other.

"Okay everyone back to our guests. Here is a performance by Westlife featuring Angel and Beauty. Here is Tonight," Jamie said as the stage darkened.

Rye and Jill stepped onto the stage from the wings as the song began. They danced their own interpretation of the words. It was quite beautiful.

Lately I'm so tired

If I took it all out on you

I never meant to

If I left you outside

If you ever felt like I ignored you

Know my life is all you

So put your best dress on

And wrap yourself in the arms of someone

Who wants to give you all the love you want

Tonight, I'm gonna make it up to you

Tonight, I'm gonna make love to you

Tonight, you're gonna know how much I missed you, baby

Tonight, I dedicate my heart to you

Tonight, I'm gonna be a part of you

Tonight, you're gonna know how much I miss you

And I miss you so

I don't wanna act like

I know that you'd be mine forever

Though I hope it's forever

Don't want you to feel like

I take you for granted

Whenever we are together

So put your best dress on

And wrap yourself in the arms of someone

Who wants to give you all the love you want

Tonight, I'm gonna make it up to you

Tonight, I'm gonna make love to you

Tonight, you're gonna know how much I miss you, baby

Tonight, I dedicate my heart to you

Tonight, I'm gonna be a part of you

Tonight, you're gonna know how much I miss you

And I miss you so

Oh yeah

So put your best dress on

And wrap yourself in my arms of my love

Tonight, I'm gonna make it up to you

Tonight, I'm gonna make love to you

Tonight, you're gonna know how much I miss you, baby

Tonight, I dedicate my heart to you

Tonight, I'm gonna be a part of you

Tonight, you're gonna know how much I miss you

And I miss you so

The song ended with Rye on his knees embracing Jill. As the last note ended she slowly moved her hand down and gently touched him on the head. He moved to look up at her and the audience could see the tears on his face. The audience erupted at the emotion that the two were able to put into the dance. The dance had made the song so much more powerful.

"Wow that was amazing. Thank you Westlife, and thank you Angel and Beauty," Jamie applauded. He began to introduce the next performance.

"Oh my God Angel, Beauty, that was so wonderful. You gave so much to our song and made it so much better," Shane said as he wrapped his arms around Jill.

"Yeah, I thought I was gonna break down while I was singing. How did you do it?" Bryan asked as he hugged Rye.

"It was Jill's idea actually," Rye said and everyone turned to her.

"I don't really like watching videos because they never show what I think the song is about. So I make up my own little video in my head. I love that song and that was the video I had in my head. The admission by the man of his failings, the promises made and his pledge of love, ending with the show of acceptance of love by the woman," Jill smiled.

"We gotta do a real video for that song and do it like that," Mark said as he held onto Rye with Bryan on the other side.

"Yeah my Beauty. I want to do that video, we will let you make sure it meets all your dreams," Kian said as he kissed Jill.

"Wow. I'm gonna make a video," Jill giggled.

• Slot 4 -

"Hi Beauty?" Donna said quietly as a couple did a ballet number on stage.

"Hey Donna. Enjoying the show?" Jill asked.

"Yeah, well sorta, I dunno," Donna came to a stop.

"What's wrong Donna," Jill asked already knowing the answer.

Donna turned and looked to the side. Jill looked and saw Scottie standing there not watching the stage but peering through the curtains at Jamie. She turned back to Jill.

"I've lost him haven't I?" Donna whispered.

Jill took Donna into her arms, "Maybe. He has some really hard choices to make. He loves you deeply but he is just realizing he may love Jamie as well. He has to figure out how he likes Jamie. It might just be a very strong friendship like Angel has with the boys. Or it may be romantic love, like Angel and Mark."

"What about me?" Donna asked.

"He has to figure out how he feels about you too. You may end up being his very best friend, like me and Angel. I fell in love with him when I first met him but luckily he already knew he was gay and so didn't let it go on. This will be a little tougher on all of you," Jill said.

"I love him. But honestly I am not sure myself if this is like a forever love. But I don't want to lose him either," Donna said.

"Then don't," Kian said from behind her, "Give him his time and your love and let him figure it out. Be his friend."

"As tough as this is going to be for you Donna, it is going to be ten times harder on Scottie. I know it doesn't help much, but he isn't trying to hurt you. In fact he is gonna hurt himself a lot during this process. Be his friend and be there for him and then accept his decision whatever it is," Jill said.

Donna nodded, "I want him to be my boyfriend, but only if that is what he wants. If it turns out he wants Jamie then we will all three be friends forever. Should I tell him?"

"We can't say, we don't know him or Jamie or you well enough. But you love them both and you will know what to do when the time is right. We are going to give all three of you our phone numbers, we will help in any way we can," Kian said.

"Thank you Michael and Jasmine for that beautiful performance. Now let's welcome to the stage Angel with a new song," Jamie's voice said.

Everyone turned to see Rye sitting at a piano at center stage.

"This is a song I wrote not that long ago. It has to do with how some people see my and Mark's relationship and how some will always see the negative. But Mark and I and our friends will never let it get us down, because we know the truth and those on the outside, they don't know a thing," Rye began to play:

All they know

Is when we fight

They never see us in the loving times

What do they know

They don't know

A thing

And they don't know

How the laughter flies

Only the stories most of which are lies

What do they know

They don't know

A thing

How can you understand

A love so strong

When you never shared that with someone

And when all the lies are dead and gone

We'll still be here

We'll prove them wrong

Cause they don't feel

Your touch at night

The way your hair falls in the morning light

What do they know

They don't know

A thing

How can you understand

A love so strong

When you never shared that with someone

And when all the lies are dead and gone

We'll still be here

We'll prove them wrong

Cause all they know is how to criticize

They'll never take a chance in their own lives

What do they know

They dont know

A thing

And all I know

Is they don't know a thing

Rye finished, and as often happened, there was a long moment of silence before the crowd roared their approval. Donna smiled and turned and her face fell. Jill and Kian followed her gaze to see Scottie, his head against the wall, obviously sobbing.

"What do I do?" Donna asked.

"Go to him. Be his friend, let him know you love him and will be there for him," Rye said.

"Angel?" Kian asked.

"His heart is tearing in two. He may not be able to make this decision on his own. Someone may have to make it for him. Can you be that person Donna? Can you be strong enough to let him go?" Rye asked.

Donna looked at Scottie, still sobbing. She looked through the part in the curtains to Jamie who was announcing the next performer. Finally she shrugged as if getting rid of a weight on her shoulders and straightened up.

"I love him and I always will, but he needs time and support to figure this all out. So for now, I am his friend. If he later decides he wants me as his girlfriend we can start over. Right now though he needs some time with Jamie to see if Jamie is who he needs," Donna said and went to Scottie.

• Slot 5 -

"Okay everyone this is it, the finale. First let's show our appreciation for all of our performers," Jamie announced as the curtain opened and everyone who had performed took their bows. Jamie noticed that Scottie was absent but continued on.

"Now to end the show we have Mark and Angel singing a duet. Now no booing. They are going to be singing an N'Sync song but they insist it's very appropriate. So here to end the show, Mark and Angel," Jamie said.

The theater went dark and a single spot lit the stage where Mark and Rye stood facing each other. The music started:

Rye sings:

When the visions around you,

Bring tears to your eyes

And all that surround you,

Are secrets and lies

I'll be your strength,

I'll give you hope,

Keeping your faith when it's gone

The one you should call,

Was standing here all along...

And I will take

You in my arms

And hold you right where you belong

Till the day my life is through

This I promise you

This I promise you

Mark sings:

I've loved you forever,

In lifetimes before

And I promise you never...

Will you hurt anymore

I give you my word

I give you my heart

This is a battle we've won

And with this vow,

Forever has now begun...

Just close your eyes

Each loving day

I know this feeling won't go away

Till the day my life is through

This I promise you...

This I promise you...

Over and over I fall

When I hear you call

Without you in my life baby

I just wouldn't be living at all...

Instrumental Mark sings:

And I will take

You in my arms

And hold you right where you belong

Till the day my life is through

This I promise you baby

Rye sings:

Just close your eyes

Each loving day

I know this feeling won't go away

Every word I say is true

This I promise you

Mark and Rye sing together:

Every word I say is true

This I promise you

Ooh, I promise you...

There was not a dry eye in the house as Mark and Rye gently hugged each other. The curtain closed with the crowd still on its feet and cheering.

"That was beautiful guys," Shane said as he took Mark into his arms.

"It was beyond words. We should buy that song from them so that only you two can ever sing it from now on," Nicky said.

"Okay guys, we have like an hour for autographs and hanging out. Then an hour for a light dinner then to the arena," Ed said as he came up to the group.

"Look," Jill said and motioned with her head.

Everyone turned to see an emotional Scottie being dragged across the stage to Jamie. The group watched as Donna spoke to Jamie who suddenly had a shocked look on his face. Scottie was a mess and was merely letting himself be led now as Donna and Jamie pulled him out the side door of the theater.

"Is everything going to be alright there?" Bryan asked.

"I hope so," Rye said but he looked concerned.

"They have all of our numbers and we will do what we can. But it's up to him Angel," Kian said as he put an arm around Rye.

The group headed to the front of the stage where they would sign autographs for any who asked. They also got autographs themselves from some. They thought it was cute that when they autographed something for someone that person usually handed them back a piece of paper with their own signature on it.

"Hey you never know, we may be famous some day too," one of the dancers said as she handed Mark a slip of paper with her name on it.

"I am sure you will be. You have the right attitude to go far," Mark assured her.

"Anyone seen Scottie?" Digger asked.

"Yeah him and Donna and Jamie took off right after the show. Scottie looked really upset," the girl answered.

"Oh," Digger said then looked at Mark who nodded slightly. Digger knew what was going on. His one word response and his look said it all.

Mark quickly jotted down everyone's numbers and passed it to the boy.

"In case you or they need it," Mark said as Digger took the paper and looked at it. He nodded once and put it away.

"So you guys gonna give the school a Westlife scholarship, send some of us deserving kids to University?" Digger grinned widely.

"Already taken care of Digger. Two in dance, one in voice, one in instrumental, one in acting, one in comedy and four that are not study specific," Rye answered.

"What?" Digger, the boys, and Jill all asked at the same time.

"Ten full scholarships to the school of choice. They will be based on grades, talent, financial need. There are 10 annual scholarships with an additional 4 special scholarships based solely on need that are at the discretion of the benefactors. That's us," Rye said.

"Angel! I love you," Bryan said and threw his arms around Rye.

"Love you too Bry boy," Angel smiled as the others took up the hug.

"Wow that is great. Hope I get one," Digger said.

Rye leaned in and whispered to Digger, "There were four already awarded. Donna, Jamie, Scottie and you. With all that's going on you four need to have one less thing to worry about. You will get the scholarship announcements in a couple of days."

Digger smiled happily then burst into tears as he hugged Rye.

"You seem to have an odd effect on my students Mr. Angel," the principal, Mrs. Panoulias said.

"Did you hear?" Digger asked.

"I heard Digger. Congratulations," the principal smiled.

"Okay guys. We are gonna start running behind if we don't leave in the next 10 minutes. Let's start making our way out," Matt said as the group was suddenly surrounded by security.

"Thank you for what you did here today. The school appreciates it all. The scholarships were wonderful but the donation was astounding. We are going to be able to accomplish so much with it all. You young men are incredible and I wish you all the best. God bless you," the principal smiled as she shook hands with the boys.

• Drive Thru Dinner -

Everyone piled into the big van and immediately turned to Rye.

"Uh yeah. By the way guys the school just received a million dollar donation in your name for building upgrades, educational materials, instruements, computers and so on," Rye said as he blushed.

"Oh is that all. Geez I thought we were more generous than that. I figured at least 2 million," Bryan quipped.

"It was 2 million," Ed said then looked at Rye, "Whoops!"

Everyone turned to Rye who blushed deeper.

"Okay well there was a second donation from AMS as well," Rye said softly.

Everyone burst into laughter.

"You're not mad are you? Cuz I didn't ask?" Rye asked softly. He was still feeling a little out of sorts after the morning fight.

"Of course not. Angel you can do stuff like that with our money any time you want," Nicky said.

"It is our money isn't it? It's not just your money that you put our name to?" Shane asked.

"Well for now it is coming from my accounts. But everything I have is yours so it is your money as well. That's right isn't it?" Rye asked.

Everyone was silent for a bit. Finally Shane moved forward and kissed Rye.

"That's exactly right our Angel. From now on there is no you or me, now it's only us. If everything you have is ours than everything we have is yours. There is no longer any separation. As soon as we can get the lawyers together we will make it legal. Thank you for our gift today Angel," Shane said.

• After the Concert -

The concert had gone very well. The boys all seemed more lively and excited. The crowd was pumped and they had done 6 encores. They made their way to the busses laughing and jumping around playing with each other.

"That was awesome possum!" Bryan shouted as he jumped on Ed's back to be carried piggy back. Ed laughed and continued on to the busses with Bryan hanging onto him.

The boys, Rye and Jill all took turns showering and eventually they were all clean in sleep pants or boxers hanging out in the lounge.

"Where is everyone else? We have to leave soon," Kian said.

"We're here, everybody decent?" Cleo called out then walked into the lounge.

"Hey what if we'd been naked?" Bryan said in mock anger.

"Please. You ain't got nothing I haven't seen before," Cleo laughed and threw herself down beside Bryan.

Simon, Alex and Carl soon entered the bus as well. Everyone was in sleep pants. The three new arrivals had several bags from a convenience store.

"Munchies," Carl said as he dumped out his bag of chips, chocolate and various other forms of sweets.

"Liam gave us this before we left to come over, he said you would want to see it," Simon handed a tape to Rye then sat down on the other side of Bryan.

Simon shucked off his shirt and his track pants and sat there in boxers. Then in a surprise move he pulled his feet up under him and lay back with his head on Bryan's chest.

"We missed out on cuddle time earlier so I figured I would start early," Simon said as he looked up at Bryan.

Bryan smiled and wrapped his arms around Simon and felt Cleo rest her head on his shoulder. The rest of the gang seated themselves in groups of 3 or 4 and began to cuddle as Rye pushed the play button on the remote.

• The Video -

"Hey all I'm Cheryl Dobbs and welcome to our brand new show Out and About. Now please welcome my co-host and partner Corey James."

"Holy shit it's Corey's show," Bryan said excitedly and was immediately shushed by everyone.

"Hey all and welcome to Out and About. I'm Corey James. Thanks for the intro Cheryl," Corey beamed and Cheryl hugged him.

"Okay Corey why don't you fill the audience in on what this show is about," Cheryl said.

Corey stood up and went to stand in front of the audience.

"Okay well Out and About is a daily 3 hour show highlighting artists new and old. We will show videos new and old and conduct interviews here in the studio as well as on the road. Where the show is different from others is that we will not be limited to what the stars are doing in their lives but will invite them to talk about themselves in depth. They will choose topics and will be allowed to discuss what they want us their fans to know," Corey said.

Everyone smiled at how calm and cool Corey was being.

"So who do we have lined up for this week Corey?" Cheryl asked.

"Well tonight we will be talking to Nick Carter who is with us tonight. We want to thank Nick for coming to talk to us. He is currently in the city shooting a video and after me calling him and begging for an hour or so he finally agreed to come visit us. I think just to shut me up," Corey laughed.

"Now Corey you know that's not true. I agreed almost right away. Especially when you told me the format of the show," Nick Carter said as he strode onto the stage to the screams of the audience.

"You came out too early Nick, I didn't get a chance to finish what I was going to say," Corey pouted.

"Okay okay. Tell us who is on the show for the rest of the week then you can come out," Nick said.

On the bus everyone tensed at Nick's phrasing.

"Ah well Nick you hit it right on the head. Let me continue before I come out. Tomorrow on the show will be a telephone interview with Director Steven Spielberg who will be talking to us about his new movie as well as his newest personal project involving cancer research," Corey said.

"You still haven't come out yet Corey," Nick said.

"In a minute Nick. Okay then on Friday I am honored to be conducting a personal interview with Angel and Mark, who just a short time ago announced on MTV their love for each other. As a gay man myself I can't tell you how much it meant to be here as they told the world of their love. Angel and Mark have graciously allowed me to be the one to give the world their first public interview," Corey said.

Inside the bus everyone sat stunned.

"Okay okay. You gonna do it now Corey?" Nick asked.

"I think I already did Nick. But for any who missed it. I wanted to express my appreciation for what Angel and the boys of Westlife have done for me by taking a stand for myself. I am a gay man and am proud to be able to say I am a friend of Angel and Westlife and Beauty," Corey kissed the tips of his fingers and blew them out to the camera.

"Wow," Shane said.

"Love you guys and looking forward to seeing you again real soon," Corey said.

The group watched the rest of the program and enjoyed it immensely. Nick Carter was a blast and had a lot of fun with Corey and Cheryl. On the spur of the moment they had decided to go out to Nick's favourite restaurant and the cameras followed. When it was over everyone sat smiling at each other. Nobody had even noticed when the bus had pulled out and begun its journey to the next city.

"Can we call him?" Bryan asked.

"It's almost 2 in the morning," Cleo said.

"I bet he's awake waiting for us to call though," Nicky smiled.

Rye smiled and tossed Bryan his cell phone. Bryan hit the speed dial and it rang only once.

--Did you see me?--

"Oh man Corey you were awesome. Awesome possum," Bryan enthused.

"Have him hang on a sec Bry boy, let's hook up the speaker phone system," Kian said as he jumped to get the equipment.

"Hang on Corey we are gonna hook up so we can all hear you and talk," Bryan said.

In just a minute everything was hooked up.

"Can you hear us Corey?" Jill asked.

--I can hear you great. So what did you think?--

"Bry boy said it all, it was awesome possum. We were so surprised when you came out like that. Was Nick in on it?" Mark asked.

--Yeah. When I called and asked him about being on the show he wasn't too thrilled. He asked about the show and I mentioned my interview on Friday with you guys and one thing led to another and I told him. He was thrilled that I was gonna come out on t.v. on my first show and wanted to help.--

"Is he gay?" Nicky asked.

--I don't know. And honestly Nicky if he was but wanted me to keep it secret I wouldn't tell. You understand right?--

"Sorry Corey. Of course I understand. That was silly of me to ask. I know you are keeping our secret and I wouldn't want you telling anyone about us," Nicky answered.

--It's not that I want to keep secrets from you guys, I mean you are like really good friends...well I like to think we are friends...--

"We are friends Corey, never doubt it. We just haven't had time to hang out together yet. As soon as you get your new house we will all come to visit and you can come visit us any time you want. We have a wide circle of friends now. Actually we have 8 of them sitting with us," Shane said.

--Oh shit. What I said...--

"Don't worry Cor, they all know about us. Our true friends all know about us and we all are sitting around in our boxers or pj's together and cuddling," Rye said.

--Wow, wish I had someone to cuddle with like that. Any way, Cheryl and Nick were in on it but nobody else at the station. You should have seen the faces of management. First commercial break they tried to rip me a new asshole and threatened to fire me. Well first Nick gets all up in their face saying how he would boycott their station and he would make sure everyone in the business he knows would do the same. Then I pulled out my contract and pointed to the parts that Liam had me highlight and explained to them the massive lawsuit they would face. They backed down pretty quick. By the end of the show the ratings numbers they were pulling had turned them all into pussycats who were now kissing my ass wanting to know what they could do to make me more comfortable.--

"Geez Corey you amaze me. But you are gonna amaze a lot of people," Jill said.

"Maybe I should call Nick and thank him for his support?" Mark offered.

--Do you really want to do that?--

"Yeah I think I do. I don't have his number but if you do maybe you could have him call me?" Mark offered.

--Just a sec--

There was a brief pause then a new voice on the phone.

--Mark?--

"Nick?" Mark asked in surprise.

--Yeah. I invited Corey back to my hotel for the evening. I am shooting a video and have a room. Corey had to drive back home so I asked him to hang with me and I am gonna take him to the shoot tomorrow.--

"Wow a night in Nick Carter's hotel room. Every gay man's dream," Bryan giggled then looked panicked as both Nicky and Shane looked at him in surprise.

--Bryan?--

"Yeah, we can all hear you. We have a speaker phone set up," Bryan said with a tremor in his voice.

There was a long, very long pause then Nick spoke again.

--It's okay guys. I would never tell on anyone. I'm gay too.--

"Oh shit," Kian said then turned to look at the non celebrities in the room.

--What's wrong?--

"Nick we're sorry we didn't know you would do that. We aren't alone here. There are eight of our friends here as well," Shane said.

"Hey it's okay. We would never tell anyone anything like that. We are keeping your secrets we will keep his," Carl said then realized he had just announced a secret.

"Okay everyone hold up a second and nobody get worked up," Rye said loudly, "Nick it's Angel. Here in the room are me and Mark who are together. Also are Beauty and Kian who are together. Then there is Bryan, Nicky and Shane who are together in an equal relationship. Then there are our friends Ed and Jay as a couple. Matt and Andy are also a couple. Cleo and Simon are an old married couple. And finally Alex and Carl are a new couple just starting out."

Everyone sat in stunned silence as Rye just outed everybody.

--Thanks Angel. Whew that was a heart stopper. But it felt good to finally say it out loud. I threw poor Corey for a loop too though, cuz I never told him I was gay. Does he know about you guys?--

"Yeah I told him and he knows," Bryan said.

"Are you and Corey gonna like, get together?" Nicky asked.

--I don't think so. He's just a cool guy and I figured we would hang out. I wasn't trying to seduce him or take him to bed or anything. I mean there are two bedrooms here in the hotel. I just wanted to hang out with another gay guy. It's just better now cuz now he knows.--

It sounded to everyone listening like Nick was trying to justify him and Corey being together.

"Cool. We are gonna lose our signal soon can we talk to Corey?" Rye asked.

--Sure, hang on.--

--Hey guys. Wow was that amazing or what. I think I missed my calling and should be a reporter for one of those trash magazines.--

Everyone laughed.

"Have fun tonight Corey and we will see you on Friday. We told Nick about all of us so you don't have to hide it and you can talk about anything you want," Mark said.

"Yeah and if you and Nick get busy I want all the details, preferably on video," Bryan laughed.

--Bryan you have a dirty mind. Nick and I are friends, or are starting a friendship. I have never been with a guy before but the only time that is gonna happen is when I have found my soulmate. Like you guys. I am not gonna be having casual sex with anyone no matter how cute or famous he is.--

"Cool Corey. We are about to lose our signal. We will watch your show tomorrow though. Have a great time guys," Shane said.

The phone signal died at that moment and everyone sat around thinking about what had happened.

Carl cleared his throat and everyone turned. He was on the verge of tears and Alex was holding him tightly.

"Hey buddy it's fine. You didn't do it on purpose and it worked out. Honestly we aren't even really trying to hide it that much. I mean if it were to actually come out somehow none of us would deny it. We just aren't pushing it at the moment is all," Shane said as he stood and went to Carl.

Carl finally let a tear slide down his face then wiped it away angrily.

"Hey, it's okay to be upset buddy. And there is nothing wrong with crying in front of your friends. You should have seen us all this morning," Matt said.

"God was that just this morning?" Rye sighed.

"It's so unmanly to cry," Carl argued.

"No. The macho, male dominated society out there says it is unmanly to cry. But here with your friends and your boyfriend it's perfectly alright to cry. I do it every now and then," Ed said.

"Bull," Carl argued.

"Nope I do. The first night that Jay and I made love I cried like a little baby afterwards. And this morning we all saw a very emotional moment with Mark and Rye and I cried then as well. Tell me something Carl, what made you cry just now?" Ed asked.

"I thought I had hurt my friends," Carl said.

"Not that you had maybe lost your job or had unintentionally outed yourself?" Ed asked.

"No of course not," Carl answered with a bit of anger.

Ed smiled, "Think about what you just said Carl. Think about it while you cuddle with your boyfriend and your friend Shane. Think about it while surrounded by your other friends who are cuddling and holding each other."

Everyone settled back and every now and then looked at Carl. Finally after many minutes they heard a deep shuddering breath and looked to see Carl truly sobbing as Alex held him and kissed him on the forehead while stroking his hair.

"Good job Blue," Jill said and got a smile from the big man. Everyone eventually shifted on to the floor and spread out blankets and pillows. Shane stayed with Alex and Carl and helped comfort them both. Simon ended up in between Cleo and Bryan and ended up with Bryan spooning him. The others were spread out and just holding whoever was closest.

It had been quite a day for everyone but everyone fell asleep feeling secure and loved, just as it should be.

...to be continued

Disclaimers and stuff

Okay all the songs belong to their writers..yadda yadda yadda.

MTV has no VJ's named Cheryl Dobbs or Corey James..yadda yadda.

Okay despite what you may think in the story above, Corey will not be ending up with Nick Carter. A friendship will develop between them but that will be it. Corey's lover will not be a celebrity at all but you will just have to wait until the story comes out to find out who it will be.

For those who have asked I am currently working on 4 other stories. Three of them will be spinoff stories from Mark and Rye. First of course is Corey's story that will probably show up in the Beginnings section. The other is of course going to be Nick's story and will be in Boybands or Celebrity, depending on how the archivist defines the boyband section. The third spinoff will be Jamie and Scottie and in the high school section. This third one is in its infancy as far as plot outline. I have not decided if Scottie will be gay, bi or straight. Nor have I decided who he will end up with. The story may even end up with him killing himself over the stress of his situation as the suicide rate among gay youth is so very high. If you have any thoughts feel free to email me....in the subject line put Jamie and Scottie.

The fourth story is not related to Mark and Rye at all and will be called Xander and Andy and will be in the high school section.

I plan on putting updates into Mark and Rye as the new stories come out. Don't get all excited though, I will not publish any of the new stories until they are completed and not until Mark and Rye is finished.