
Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/5822878.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Underage
  Category:
      M/M
  Fandom:
      The_Monkees
  Relationship:
      Micky_Dolenz/Davy_Jones, Mike_Nesmith/Peter_Tork
  Character:
      Davy_Jones_(The_Monkees), Micky_Dolenz, Mike_Nesmith, Peter_Tork, OFC
  Additional Tags:
      Drama, Angst, Male_Slash, Anal_Sex, Fluff, Humor
  Series:
      Part 3 of The_Adventures_and_Perils_of_Davy_Jones
  Stats:
      Published: 2016-01-26 Chapters: 6/6 Words: 12761
****** A Season of Brotherly Love ******
by htfrjolenz
Summary
     (The Monkees are as they were in 1966 in this saga but this is an
     altered reality story, it takes place in modern times and certain
     facts have been changed to create the plot and environment.)
     Summary: Sequel to “A First Time for Everything”
     With the holidays approaching Davy and the family make an astonishing
     and delightful discovery.
***** Chapter 1 *****
   Now that everyone was settled into the new house, the excitement of the
approaching holidays lit Davy up like the proverbial Christmas tree. Having
been born in England, Thanksgiving was not something they’d celebrated when he
was a boy. Robyn had no interest in any of the holidays: All the years Davy
spent under his authority they’d never regaled for any special occasion - even
Christmas was a bleak and lonely time.
    With the cooler autumn air and the changing of every human character to one
of good will, the bustle of his families’ Thanksgiving planning had him very
excited. It was decided that the two households would celebrate together, with
everyone contributing to the meal something native to his home or heritage:
This would certainly be a feast of unique flavors. They kept their special
menus a secret from one another, with exception to the humongous turkey Nicky
was going to prepare.      Searching out fresh markets and specialty shops,
they furtively bought every ingredient necessary for the approaching day.
    The weekend was over with the big feast just days away, and knowing they
would be busy all week, Tony wanted to give Davy a little one on one time with
Micky. He and Nicky were going to L.A. for the night to hit a few specialty
shops gathering their final ingredients. He decided to drag Robbie along so the
two youngest bandmates could have his house to themselves. He left the lovers a
light meal and a bottle of wine to set the mood. They had finished supper
having cleaned the kitchen, and were settled in the living room on the floor.
   “How bout that wine?” Micky suggested.
   “Alright, I’ll get it”
   While Davy fetched the vino, Micky kicked off his shoes. He threw several
pillows from the couch in a comfy pile on the carpet and shrugged out of his
shirt.
    When Davy returned, seeing him in a sexy sprawl, he nearly dropped Tony's
antique crystal glasses. He stood for a moment remembering the last time he'd
drank a lot of wine.
           (oh boy, I’m in trouble)
    Perched on the floor beside his partner he poured them both a tall glass of
the burgundy. A clink of their glasses and they swallowed deeply of the
splendid ruby-hued ferment.
   “I can’t believe we’re actually alone!” Micky cooed, stroking Davy’s cheek.
   “I know, s'been a while."
   Ulterior motives in mind, Micky refilled Davy’s glass, continuing to sip
casually on his own.
   “You tryin’ to get me drunk Dolenz?” Davy grinned.
   “Just want you to relax is all, loosen up a bit.”
   “Hmm …”
   “Come here,” Micky said, patting the pillow beside him.
   He curled into Micky’s one-armed embrace, snuggling in, and looked up into
his face.
   “Much better,” Micky said, planting a kiss on his nose.
   Giggling, Davy draining his second glass, which Micky promptly refilled.
   “I love the way you fit perfectly against me,” Micky whispered.
   “Built fer each other.” He replied, “S’it a bit warm in ‘ere?” Davy asked
with a thickening tongue.
   Sliding his arm from under his lover’s back, Micky sat, straddling his slim
hips and eyeing him with a lascivious grin.
   “Naa, you just want fewer clothes on.”
   In a swift and fluid movement, he peeled the t-shirt over Davy’s head.
Without missing a beat, he puckered his lips around the pink-red peaks that
were his little ones nipples, working the man’s belt buckle in the same stroke.
   “Ohhhggod,” Davy moaned.
   Somehow, in his erotic stupor he managed to miss something, for the next
thing he knew he lay naked, giggling up at his lusty-eyed paramour. He slugged
back his third glassful of the heady liquid and looked at Micky with ravenous
eyes.
   “Yours,” he said huskily, and took a fumbling crack at the belt that stood
between him and a naked lover. Now rather tipsy, his fingers clumsy, he wasn’t
seeing much success - fortunately, Micky was happy to assist.
    They lay on their sides, bodies pressed together, hands groping - legs
rubbing together deliciously as they nipped and sucked at each other’s lips in
a passionate kiss. Micky pulled back, staring down into honey-colored eyes. His
mild buzz making him frisky, he slowly ran his hands up and down the length of
Davy’s torso. He gave a small twist to the hard nipples, thrilling at the groan
of painful pleasure that gurgled in the young man’s throat.
    He roughly stroked his way down the slender ribcage, and along his hips.
His thumbs brushed the tangle of crisp dark hair above Davy’s manhood, driving
him to moan and writhe beneath him from the thrill. Bending, he gave a hot
flick of his tongue to the sensitive tip of Davy's full throbbing cock.
Electric chills ran through Davy’s taut body and he arched upward eagerly.
Slowly, Micky teased and stoked the pulsating pink hard-on with his licking and
swirling tongue.
    “Oh! More -” Davy insistently pleaded
    Wrapping his wet lips around him and drew him into his mouth. Soft, silky
suckling rapidly became a tight, drawing suction at a steady and feverish pace.
    “Bloody hell!” Davy cried, grabbing handfuls of sweat-dampened curly hair,
“Micky - s’so good - please?”
    With mind blowing suddenness Micky came off of him with a hard pulling
suck, leaving Davy breathless and in agony.
    “No! Why?” He begged.
    “I’m not finished with you yet little one,” Micky said lustily, trailing
burning kisses along his thigh.
    “Davy, I.. I wanna fuck you.”
    Eyes widened in fear he gaped up at him, chewing nervously at his lip.
    “I -"
    “Please Davy. I… let’s just try. I swear to you I will be so careful. If
you hate it, I promise you I’ll stop!”
    The pleading in Micky’s eyes was killing him, but Davy’s fear of pain was
waging a war in his drunken head: He wanted to do it - wanted very much to
please his gentle lover.
           (Gentle.. so gentle)
    Swallowing hard he gave the slightest nod of his head, his lips trembling
he spoke timidly.
    “One more glass?”
    Micky filled the stemmed wineglass so full that a few drops spilled onto
Davy’s golden skin. He lapped it up, sucking it off with tender, tickling lips.
    Davy downed the rosy spirits in one long draught and setting the goblet
aside laid back against the cushions.
        Another nod.
    His eyes were soft and glassy as he looked up at his partner with a mixture
of absolute trust and abject terror.
    “Alright,” he squeaked, "n-now whatta we do? “
    With a quick peck on Davy’s mouth Micky reached into the pocket of the
jeans he’d cast behind him, producing a small tube. Kneeling between the
youth’s strong, tanned legs, he squeezed some of the clear gel into his palm.
Kisses and licks fell onto Davy’s abdomen and thighs, his lover’s hot breath
caressing his skin. He watched, breathless, mesmerized by the sight and
sensations as Micky’s warm slippery palm took hold of his cock and gently began
to prime him. Long teasing strokes up and down the velvet shaft scintillated
Davy’s wine-laden mind. A keening groan escaped him and he closed his eyes,
relishing the plethora of erotic sensations.
    A sharp gasp broke the spell as his lover eagerly probed a lubricated
finger into his rectum. Increasing his rhythm on Davy’s hungry hardness, Micky
locked eyes with him in a sensual and heated gaze.
   “Relax,” he said softly, “but I’ll stop if you want me to.”
   A tiny, wine-dizzy smile and a quick wink told Micky to gently proceed.
   He slowed his strokes and pushed deeper into the small man’s bottom,
swirling his finger as he kissed Davy’s quivering thigh. Poking and teasing he
probed the tiny space in an effort to stretch him, sending waves of chills
through the young one’s nubile body.
    Wordlessly he withdrew his hands and eased his lover’s legs apart. With one
last questioning look, he pressed his dick against the tiny opening and waited.
Davy placed trembling hands on Micky’s waist and giving a slight squeeze,
nodded his assent. Raising his lover's shaky legs he eased them gently toward
his chest. Finally, unable to wait a moment longer, he pushed into him slowly.
    The pain was so sharp and mind splitting that Davy was momentarily blinded.
A cold sweat broke out on his skin, his face draining of color. The air in his
lungs seeming to vanish immediately; he felt as if he were choking.
Involuntarily he lurched backwards, scrambling away from the intruding force
but Micky held him firmly in place.
    “HOLY FUCK DAVE” Micky gasped, the tight warmth like nothing he’d ever felt
- and it felt like pure heaven.
    “Oh God Micky!” Davy winced, tears in his eyes.
    “- I’m pulling out babe I-”
    “No! Just.. Just, don’t move."
    Exhaling a heavy breath Davy forced himself to relax. He was gripping
Micky’s upper arms so tightly that the young Italian felt instantly bruised.
    “Davy I don’t wanna hurt y-”
    “I-I’m alright, it’s g-gonna hurt some. Just please, go easy.”
    “But babe you’re-”
    Davy cut him off with a hard and burning kiss. He tangled his fingers in
his hair, and forehead to forehead he whispered.
    “I want this Micky.”
    Nodding, Micky began again now holding Davy’s body close to his, easing his
way deeper into the steamy tightness. Burying his face in his lover's neck Davy
inhaled deeply of Micky's personal scent, melting into the safe harbor of his
embrace.
Carefully easing his hips back he pressed his length into him again and again,
and finding a smooth metre, he reached once more for Davy’s cock. The
combination of pleasure and pain was so intense that Davy felt he was wavering
between heaven and hell. His delirious moans brought Micky to bend to his ear.
    “Shhh, I’ve got you,” he whispered, planting soft kisses on his neck.
    The change of position brought a new sensation into play, something warm
and erotic happening inside the younger man’s body. A jolt of the most
delicious pleasure shot through him, electrifying him from his head to his
feet.
    “Don’ stop.. hitting.. wha'evah.. yer prodding!” he sputtered through
gritted teeth.
    “Never!” Micky breathed into his ear.
    With a renewed abandon he picked up his pace, sliding his massive hard-on
sweetly over the lovely, tiny gland that was bringing Davy to writhe beneath
him, moaning and begging for more.
   “Oh Micky - So HOT!”
    The fiery urge building in Micky's balls was reaching its point of no
return. He pumped wildly at the head of Davy’s cock, drawing from him an
unintelligible string of wild pleadings. The tight spasms wrapping his own
crazed and hungry erection fueled Micky to a frenzy, and crying out he shot his
hot nectar into his lover’s firm backside.
   “Oh hell, YESSS!”
   The younger man exploded too, cumming into his lover’s hand as they drew
every bit of rapturous pleasure they could from each other’s bodies. Micky
dissolved in a weak heap atop Davy’s sweaty form, his softening manhood
slipping from its cozy haven. As his senses gradually came back to him, he
realized his lover was crying. Springing to shaky hands and knees, he spoke
softly in a stricken voice.
   “Oh God no - Davy, I’ve hurt you!”
   Tears still streaming, he shook his head, struggling to find his tongue.
   “No - yes - but tha's not why. It was.. rough, but not 'orrible.”
   “Then what is it?”
   Wiping his face Davy sniffed, and clearing his throat he spoke in a soft
voice.
   “I won’t lie to you Micky, it hurt. At first it was so bad I wanted to make
you stop or die trying, but then…”
   Micky waited, a guilty knot twisting his stomach.
   “Then it was.. Right. Not just the pleasure. For the first time in my life I
KNEW not only that I belonged to someone - with someone - but I knew clearly
and completely who.” I’ve never felt so free and so fully possessed in the same
strike. It gobsmacked me. I felt so perfectly.. wanted. I love you Micky. “
    Micky smothered him with kisses, hugging him close. Burying his relieved
face into Davy’s neck, a single tear fell onto the boyish shoulder as Micky
whispered to him.
    "You’re mine little one, for the rest of my life. I love you too.”
***** Chapter 2 *****
   Davy spent the day with the guys at their place, rehearsing and just having
fun. Mike and Peter couldn’t help but notice the I’ve-been-on-a-horse-too-long
swagger in their youngest member’s walk and exchanged a knowing grin. Tony had
called to say they were heading home, and to check in on his ward: He had some
news for Davy.
   “Stop pacing the floor will ya Tiny? You’re makin me nervous,” Mike finally
spoke up, “now sed'down n play some cards.”
Davy came into the kitchen and sat delicately on one of the chairs. Tight-faced
he let a small groan slip out as his tender behind made contact with the hard
seat. Peter cracked a goofy grin, and despite his best efforts, Mike snickered
at the grimace on the Englishman's face. Davy gave them a sly, sideways look.
   “Whas'so funny?"
   “We’re sorry shotgun; butcha might as well be wearing a sign that says
'fresh kill’ …”
        Another snicker.
   Irritated and more than a little sore, Davy unceremoniously flipped them the
middle finger.
   “In all seriousness, there are things you can do to get past this a little
easier."
   Still scowling and with a pink tinge to his cheeks, Davy muttered in reply.
   “Like wha’??”
   “Start with this.” Peter said, tossing him a soft pillow from the couch.
   “Well there’s that,” Mike said, suppressing a giggle, “n you can take a soak
in the tub.”
   Realizing that they were genuinely trying to help Davy latched onto the
humor of the situation. Always his best defense, he made himself the butt of
his own joke.
   “I dunno 'bout that," he grinned, "me bums s'sore I’m ready for an icy dip
in the ocean.”
   Bursting into uproarious laughter his roommates found themselves charmed by
his self-stinging sense of humor.
   "I'm tellin ya, now I know what it feels like to be a scarecrow - with a
pole shoved up yer arse."
   "Stop, Stop!" Mike begged, "I cain't breathe!"
   “Don’t be embarrassed about it Davy,” Peter spoke up as the laughter died
down, “we’ve all been there too."
   “Which reminds me, why is Micky not walkin’ like a cowpoke Tiny?”
   “Cuz I was the only cow that got poked.”
   Davy’s infectious laughter had them all cackling again when Micky came down
the stairs.
   “What’d I miss?” he said half-grinning.
   “Apparently, not much.” Mike said with a suggestive grin.
   “Huh?”
   “We were just won'drin when you were gonna let our little cowboy here take a
ride.”
   The side-splitting laughter was killing Davy’s backside, but he couldn’t
help himself. Facing his friends with the one-sided fact of their escapades,
Micky could only blush.
   Just as things started to simmer down, Tony came in the front door.
   “Hey Tony,” Davy called.
   “Hey kiddo, I heard from Gerry yesterday.”
   “Is everything alright?”
   “Yes, he called to say that he’d made arrangements for a company to go into
Robyn's old house and get the rest of your things. A bonded courier will be
packing and shipping them to you here - is there anything else in the house
outside of your bedroom that you want sent along?”
   Thoughtful, Davy considered the question.
   “There're four cookbooks in the kitchen that belong to me. If Robyn didn’t
destroy or be rid of it, he 'ad a box of my.. mem'ries, up in the attic. I
guess that’s about it.”
   “Okay, I’ll let him know. Has he been any trouble?” He asked Mike.
   The look of stark humiliation in Davy’s eyes spoke volumes.
   “Nary a bit,” Mike assured him, giving his Tiny friend a wink.
   “Good to hear! David I could use some help unpacking the groceries if you
will.”
   “Right, coming.”
   Davy gave Micky a hug and a quick peck, and said he would see them all
later.
                                                                                   
  *
   The next few days were filled with tantalizing smells and busy hands
preparing for Thursday’s feast. The big day finally arrived and the double-
family gathered excitedly together at Tony’s place.
       And Oh! The incredible meal!
   With a tabletop drum roll from Micky, Nicky placed the steaming, juicy,
golden bird in the center of the dining table. He had filled it near to
bursting with a sage, sausage and chestnut stuffing, trimming the platter with
cranberries and bright sprigs of rosemary. Eyes wide and drooling, everyone
applauded the main attraction. Taking turns, they each introduced the foods
they had so carefully prepared, sharply whetting one another's appetite. As the
host, Tony spoke first.
   “On this - our first Thanksgiving together - I bring you a bit of Italy:
Butternut squash with crisp pancetta, a plentiful antipasto platter, seafood
bruschetta, classic tiramisu and a sparkling white Zinfandel.”
   Oohs and aahs made their way around the table, stomachs growling, eyes
glazed in anticipation.
   “Italian-American,” Robbie went next, “I present to you my creamy whipped
potatoes with a richly-herbed turkey gravy, sautéed spinach with mushrooms and
pearl onions and a fig tart in a delicate pistachio crust.”
   Davy clutched his stomach, moaning in anticipation. Micky, licking his lips,
let out a pleased groan. Peter stood next and proudly announced his
contribution to the meal.
   “This is my New England heritage, all of my favorites and my mother’s best
recipes: Parker house rolls, brussels sprouts with bacon, corn pudding and
maple-butter mashed sweet potatoes!”
   “Oh my God son!” Tony cried.
   Robbie let out a long low whistle.
   "Petah yer killin' me!"
   “Cotton I am really impressed!” Mike smiled, “com'ere you.”
   He planted a wet kiss on the elated blonde’s forehead, pride beaming from
both of their faces.
   “My turn!” Micky stood, “A little bit of L.A.: Spicy beet slaw with citrus,
scallions and arugula and my grandmama’s famous brown sugar cranberry tart. I
also have some GREAT almond espresso for after dinner.”
   “Ooh I LOVE beets!” Davy said excitedly.
   “Mick I haven’t had that cranberry tart since we were boys!” Tony said
licking his lips.
   Mike stood up and spoke like a proud Texan.
   “Our homestead favorites for this here fine holiday I bring to this table a
taste of Texas: Aunt Kate’s stewed green beans and poblanos, squash soup with
chili-spiced pecans n pepitas, and my own pumpkin spice cheesecake with
cinnamon-bourbon whipped cream.”
   “Cheesecake - be still my beating heart!” Tony said delighted.
   Davy and Nicky exchanged wide-eyed smiles of anticipation, as they both
loved spicy food.
   “Michael that sounds wonderful!” Peter beamed, "I can hardly wait!"
   “Welp I s'pose that leaves me,” Davy said, rising from his chair, “be righ’
back chaps.”
   He returned to the table with two covered silver dishes. Laying them on
either side of the turkey platter he made his presentation.
   “I offer for yer dining pleasure a bi' of Manchester right 'ere in the
colonies.”
   He lifted the first lid.
   “Prawn cocktail.”
   Tony’s jaw dropped, genuinely impressed. Nicky, a huge seafood fan, moaned
at the sight of the plump, pink shrimp. Davy continued.
   “Ere in the casserole I’ve brought parsnips and swede - that's yellow
turnips n rutabaga to you yanks - with nutmeg and a tarragon cream sauce. And
for dessert - Micky if you will?
   Another drumroll gave an exciting crescendo to the moment. Davy lifted the
lid of a third silver baking dish, already waiting on the table.
   “Traditional English Figgie Pudding: Figs, apricots, almonds, currants,
raisins n spices steamed in to a thick, warm, moist lil beau'y!”
   “OHHHH!” Nicky moaned aloud.
   “So THAT’S why I’ve been drooling all day!” Tony added with a huge grin,
"The smell has been torturing me!"
   “Tiny that looks like a lotta work - AND it looks AMAZING!”
   Micky kissed him full on the lips, hard and wet, mouth watering for more
than just the meal.
   “Davy I'm duly impressed! You even garnished it with a sprig of Holly! This
looks like a feast indeed gentlemen,” Tony said standing, “so before it can get
cold, I’d like to carry on a long-standing tradition that Nicky and I share. In
lieu of grace, I would like each of us to stand and say what he is thankful
for. Me? I am thankful for each of you, this beautiful day and the fabulous
meal we’ve all put together, Nicky?”
   The quiet, dark-eyed young man stood and spoke next.
   “I’m thankful for a new place to live, new friends and a great life.
Robbie?"
   “I’m exceedingly thankful for this feast, for re-connecting with old
friends,” he glanced at Micky, “and making new ones. I’m thankful for this
whole family unit. Mike?”
   Mike stood and spoke to the already emotional gathering.
   “I’m s'very thankful for all of you. I’m thankful for my Cotton,” he
caressed Peter’s cheek, “and I’m deeply thankful that Tiny here came into our
lives. Peter?”
   Tears in his big, syrupy eyes, Peter stood and smiled broadly.
   “I’m so very thankful for all of you; you each bring love and joy to me in
your own unique way. I’m thankful to have Michael as my partner, and I am
thankful that we’re all here together. Micky?"
   “I’m thankful for family, blood wise and this one. I’m thankful for all this
food and the love that went into it. I am so thankful to you, Tony - for moving
to Malibu.. I dunno how I’d get through a day without my little one.”
   He turned to Davy.
   “I’m most thankful for you. I’ve never felt so loved and accepted for ME in
my life, and Davy, I’ve never been happier.”
   Holding the other man's hands in his own, he kissed them both.
   “Davy?” Tony prompted.
   He sat a moment, misty-eyed, looking around at the others. He let his head
drop then stood by his chair.
   “I’m not sure where to starht …” he looked up at them, “I have so much that
I’m thankful for, I could go on all ahfternoon, but I won’t. I’m thankful that
all of you welcomed me into your lives and 'omes, that I’ve gotta family - a
real one - for the first time in God, so long. I’m thankful for this
celebration that’s new to me and all the wonderful food! N Micky, I’m so ‘appy
with you - I too feel like I can really be meself with you. I love all of you
so very much.”
   For a moment, nobody spoke, all of them in an emotional dither, very touched
by Davy’s words. Before a lot of caterwauling could begin, Tony thankfully
broke the silence.
   “Well let’s get this dinner started! Nicky, it's your bird = you get to
carve.”
   “Yessir!”
   Ninety minutes later, the seven men lounged about in various states of
saturation, stuffed to the gills they moaned and dozed sprawled on the two
large sofas.
   “That was the biggest and best meal I ever did eat,” Mike said with half-
lidded eyes.
   “Mmmmm,” Peter agreed beside him, almost asleep on his shoulder.
   “Considering the variety of flavors, everything went so perfectly together,”
Tony said, “and Nicky that turkey was better than my best!”
   “Wow Tony, thank you. Do we have any bicarbonate?”
   “Ate too much, eh mi amore?” Tony chuckled, “there's some in my medicine
cabinet, but try a little ginger ale first.”
   A long, ripping snore erupted from Micky, bringing a giggle from his
friends.
   “Well, good thing 'es knocked out,” Davy yawned, “I’m too stuffed n toosore
to 'ave another go tonight.”
   He realized what he’d said just half a tick too late. Nicky turned seven
shades of red at the revelation, Tony gaping at him in utter surprise. Sitting
up from his relaxed position he looked at Davy sternly.
   “Come with me kiddo, I think we need totalk.”
   Davy rose and followed him to the kitchen table, casting a helpless backward
glance at his sleeping boyfriend. He sat nervously chewing at his lower lip,
waiting for Tony to speak.
   “I take it the two of you made a home run the other night?”
   The young man looked at him puzzled.
   “You and Micky - you went all the way?”
   Blushing brightly Davy looked at his feet. Slowly raising his head to meet
his guardian’s gaze, he nodded silently.
          (I'm in trouble)
   Tony sighed.
   “Are you bene il mio piccolo?”
   “Who WHA’?”
   “Ha-ha," he chuckled, "I’m sorry - I ask if you’re alright 'my little
love’.”
   “Oh,” Davy smiled, “I erm … I am.”
   “Are you in much discomfort?”
   “.. A l-little. It was.. well worse, ya know.. before.”
   “Kiddo I don’t want you to be embarrassed about this. You can talk to me,
about anything you need.”
   “I know, i-it’s just that I… I didn’t want to hurt your feelings.”
   “Davy that's not going to happen. I am ALWAYS going to have a - a soft spot
for you, but the dynamics of our relationship is much changed. My role in your
life will never be that of paramour, and I will NEVER look at you that way
again. Understand?”
   Relieved, Davy nodded, giving him a winning smile.
   “I’m going to draw you a hot bath with some salts and essential oils, it’ll
really help with the pain. Get your things; I want you to do this now. You’ll
need to stay in the tub for about forty-five minutes. We’ll talk some more
later on.”
   He gave him a reassuring squeeze on his shoulder and headed upstairs.
***** Chapter 3 *****
   Saturday morning Tony woke the house up early. He and Mike had made secret
plans for the two households to have a fun day together. Everyone gathered in
the boys’ living room to find out what the big fuss was all about.
   “Okay,” Tony began, “here's the thing. Christmas is inexactly thirty days,
and Mike and I have a big weekend planned for all of us, starting with
breakfast out, my treat.”
   “Once we get to the restaurant n order breakfast, ”Mike added with a sly
grin, “we’ll letch'as know the rest.”
   They piled into two vehicles and headed for town, Davy pleading to ride with
Micky and the guys. Tony acquiesced and they were on their way.
   Seated around the large table everyone ordered quickly, eager to hear what
Mike and Tony had to say.
   “Okay, here's the plan. When we’re finished eating, we’re driving up the
coast about forty minutes to a farm - a Christmas tree farm,” Tony said.
   “We’re gonna buy the best two trees we can find,” Mike added, “n tons of
greenery to deck them halls.”
   “After that,” Tony went on, “it’s on to buy decorations, lights, ornaments,
tinsel-”
   “Bows n garlands, wreaths n other such finery-”
   “Then we’ll all work together to put up the trees in both houses-”
   “N gussy em up with all the doodads n gimcracks,” Mike finished.
   Breakfast arrived and they chatted excitedly, most especially Nicky and
Davy.
   “This is gonna be great,” Davy said, shoving ham in his mouth, “I 'aven’t
'ad a Christmas tree in eleven years!”
   “Christmas is my FAVORITE time of year,” Nicky replied, “everything is so
bright and merry, the colors and smells, the music - and I LOVE to wrap and
hide presents!”
   They nattered away like two excited children, devouring their meals with
hurried anticipation.
   At the tree farm, they decided that Nicky would choose one tree and Davy the
other. They fanned out in two’s and threes, to frolic in the sun among the
glorious scent of pine and fir. Nicky found a six-foot Douglas fir, hearty and
wide, with beautiful full branches. Davy, after a tumble in the pine needles
with Micky, was torn between a gorgeous blue spruce and a huge pine, both of
which towered over his small stature.
   “Micky,” Davy wheedled, “go n stand in front of the trees, please? One at a
time?”
   “Ok, but what for?”
   “I wanna see which will make my best picture with you,” He grinned
sheepishly.
   Micky smiled, happy to please his adorable little lover.
   “Hmm.. The other one? No, go back, please?” Davy instructed.
   “Welp, I’ve made up my mind,” he giggled.
   “And what’s that?” Tony asked.
   “Micky looks TERRIBLE in green!” He laughed heartily, dodging a handful of
pine needles Micky threw with a playful smirk.
   “I think I want the pine tree, lovely smell 'at one 'as.”
   Much of the afternoon was spent in the same way, all of them laughing and
playing, enjoying each other’s company. Finally back home they busied
themselves with putting up the trees and decorating them. Lights and baubles,
garlands and green sprays were hung everywhere in both houses, and Davy made
sure that mistletoe graced every doorway. Later, they ordered pizza and settled
at the boys’ place for a night of cards and games.
   Sunday they decorated outside, giving a festive cheer to the yards and
entryways. When they were finished, it looked like Santa’s workshop had
exploded over the two houses. Davy was tickled pink.
  
   It was Tony’s turn to host their Sunday dinner and he made a fabulous
spaghetti Bolognese, a rich combination of meat, vegetables, herbs and red
wine, simmered until tender, and served over fresh pasta. After they ate he
asked everyone to join him by the tree.
   “It’s a custom for Nicky and I - for as long as I can remember - that I give
him his first Christmas gift on this night.”
   Nicky smiled, attempting to hide his eager anticipation with little success.
   “This year will be the same, but I also have something for you too Davy.”
   “Fer me!” Davy brightened, "Really!”
   “Yes. I hope you don’t mind, I’m going to give Nicky his present first, that
okay?”
   “Course it is!”
   Tony reached into the gaily-lit tree and retrieved a small box wrapped in
silver foil paper.
   “Buon Natale mio amore piccolo,” he said, handing the package to Nicky.
   He took the gift and gave it a small shake. Smiling, he gently pulled the
end of the bow, unfurling the ribbon. With gentle hands, he reached underneath
and broke the tape that held the shiny folds of paper together, stretching the
anticipation that hung in the air. Inside was a little gray box from a local
jeweler. Nicky looked up in surprise, his eyes filled with a hopeful gleam. He
took off the lid and gasped with delight.
   “Oh TONY - thank you SO MUCH!”
   Everyone craned their necks to see what he was so thrilled over. He pulled
out the sterling silver bracelet, and putting it on held it out for everyone to
admire.
   “I can’t believe you actually bought it!” Nicky gushed, “I’ve been eyeing
this forever!”
   “Enjoy it mi amici, with love,” Tony said happily.
   He turned to Davy.
   “Kiddo, what I have for you isn’t quite as extravagant. I gave this gift a
lot of thought, and well, I hope it makes you happy too.”
   “Wha'evah it is, I’m sure I’ll love it, you didn’t hafta get me anythin’.”
   Once more Tony reached inside the tree. The box was smaller, but no less
beautifully wrapped.
   “Felice Natale mia uno speciale.”
   Davy took the box with bright eyes and trembling hands: This was the first
Christmas gift he’d received since he was seven years old. He ran his fingers
over the satiny blue paper, soaking in the moment for all that it was. With
boyish abandon he pulled the ribbon from the box and handed it to Micky. Giving
the box a small shake, a distinct clunk-clunk met his ear and he grinned. He
tore the paper off and opened the box to stare mutely down at a silver key.
Puzzled, he looked at Tony.
   “Davy,” he said, kneeling in front of him, “I know you have come to care for
Robbie, Nicky and I. I’m also aware that try as you have you’re not truly happy
here in our home.”
   Heart pounding, Davy looked into his face in confusion, not sure where this
was leading.
   “This key,” Tony went on, “is your house key - to move back home - home,
with Micky, Peter and Mike. I’ll be right here next door, and am still legally
your guardian, but it’s time you were genuinely happy and free.”
   “I - I dunno what to say.”
   He reached forward and threw his arms around Tony’s neck, squeezing him with
all he had.
   “Thank you!” He whispered as his tears broke free. He turned his embrace on
Micky who was equally emotional.
   “I’m comin 'ome babe.” He said softly into his ear.
   “No one of authority can know about this Davy," Tony spoke from behind him,
"you understand?”
   “Yes, of course. Thank you Tony. I’ll come over a lot n stay a night
sometime. Nicky you’ll come stay with us some too, won’t you?”
   “You better believe it; I’m going to miss your messy head at breakfast …”
   The two shared a quick hug and a reassuring smile
   “Alrighty then,” Tony said loudly and cheerfully, “I declare the Christmas
season officially under way! Let’s have a toast, and then I’m off to bed.”
***** Chapter 4 *****
   The next day a courier came to deliver Davy’s things. Robbie, Nicky and Tony
brought the three boxes, two large and one smaller, next-door. Everyone hovered
close to see what treasures they held. The first large crate was full of the
clothes and shoes Davy had left behind when he ran away. Setting these aside,
he opened the second large container.
   “My books!” He said excitedly, “My posters n sheet music - they found them
all!”
   He showed his cookbooks to Tony, his posters to Micky and shoved his
treasured music meanderings into Mike’s eager hands.
   Davy looked at the last box with a bit of hesitation, almost a sense of fear
in his manner. The small crate, he was certain, held the few cherished photos
and memories of his childhood. Sensing his mood shift, Micky touched his
shoulder.
   “You don’t have to open it until you’re ready. Even then, we’ll understand
if you wanna do it alone Dave.”
   “N-no, I’d like for you all to be with me. It’s just …”
   He swallowed, a little of the tension going out of him.
   “Robyn kept this from me, I 'aven’t seen these in.. well a long time.”
   With a deep fortifying breath, he forged ahead and opened the last crate.
Inside was a small wooden box with a metal latch and a tiny lock. He lifted it
out, setting it on the floor between his legs. From inside his shirt he pulled
out the long, thin chain he wore, raising it over his head. Dangling from the
bottom was a very small key. His hands shook so much that he had trouble at
first, but managed to finally fit in the key and gave it a turn, laying the
lock aside.
   With great reverence, he slowly lifted the hinged lid - everyone seemed to
be holding their breath. He smiled weakly and tears filled his honey-brown eyes
as he pulled out a tiny pair of shoes. Beneath the shoes was a blue baby gown
with a drawstring at the bottom; tied to the drawstring was a blue and white
rattle. Smiling now, he handed these over to Micky to look at and pass along.
   “Mine,” he said with a bright pink blush.
   "Wow," Micky grinned, passing the items on, "Have you always been really
little?"
   "Nevahmind," Davy grinned.
   Next came a small brown teddy bear wearing glasses ana a gray sweater. He
hugged it to him briefly and passed this on too.
   “Mr. Biggles!” He said animatedly.
   A plastic bag of photos came next, but as he lifted it out of the box, he
gasped and tossed it on the floor. Underneath it lay a battered wooden frame
lying face-down on the bottom of the box. Grabbing it up, Davy quickly flipped
it over and brought it close to his face.
   He paled noticeably, and drawing a sharp breath clutched it tightly to his
breast. Tears poured from his closed, anguished eyes and a heart-rending sob
broke in his throat.
   “Davy, what is it?” Tony asked, concerned.
   “Tiny?”
   “Babe what-”
   Jamming the frame into Micky’s hands, he scrambled to his feet. Racing
upstairs to his room, he slammed the door behind him.
   “What is the picture Mick?” Tony asked.
   Micky looked at the photo he held, and with sadness etched on his face he
looked up at the others.
   “The poor guy!” Was all he could muster.
   He turned the frame so everyone could see the happy family portrait: Mom,
dad, a very young Davy - and what must have been his brother - on a picnic at
the beach. Nicky looked at the photo and his eyes grew large. He backed away,
shaking his head. Turning to Tony for just a second, he burst into tears and
ran out the front door.
   “What in the world?” Tony wondered. “I’ll be right back, I have to see
what’s wrong with Nicky!”
   “I’m gonna check on Davy.” Micky countered.
   With that, both of them were gone, leaving the others concerned and quite
confused.
   Micky slipped quietly into the bedroom and shut the door. Head lowered, Davy
stood on the balcony looking out at the beach below. When gentle hands began to
knead the tense muscles of his upper back, he softened into the comfort of the
sturdy chest behind him.
  “You okay?”
  “Yes. I’m sorry fer runnin’ off, I just …"
  “It’s ok really, everybody understood. Was that.. was that your family?”
  Davy nodded.
  “Cookie any of us would have reacted the same way,” Micky said, wrapping him
in a hug from behind, “I can’t imagine how it must hurt.”
  “I think about them all the time, but it’s been so long since I’ve seen the
photo.. I’d nearly forgotten.”
  “You’ve been through a lot Davy; sometimes it’s easier to forget.”
  Davy sighed and turned to face his love. He melted against him, letting his
cares dissolve in strong, protective loving arms.   They held each other
quietly for the longest time before Micky spoke.
   “You feel like going back down? I’m sure the other guys are worried too.”
   “Yaa, I think I can do that. Gimme a minute to wash me face.”
   Tony found Nicky curled up in his bed, his back to the door.
   “Can I come in?”
   He gave a brief nod.
   “What happened back there Nicky?”
   Tony could hear him sniffling, and waited for him to gain his composure.
Nicky wiped his face and sitting up looked straight ahead. Finally calm, he
spoke in a flat monotone.
   “I knew I felt something from the beginning - you know how my intuitions are
- but I couldn’t pin down what it was exactly.”
   Tony sat down beside him, attentive and caring as always.
   “What do you mean?”
   “Bits and pieces have been.. shaking me. That day in Yuma when I first heard
his full name. Something familiar about his voice, his eyes. Thanksgiving day
when he made the food, he mentioned Manchester - but I never quite put it all
together.”
   Tony was confused. Desperate to comfort his young friend he prodded him
gently for answers.
   “I’m sorry kiddo, I’m not follo-”
   “It was the picture!” Nicky blurted out.
   "The photograph? Of Davy and his family?“
   Nicky nodded, a faint ironic smirk playing on his lips.
   "But why did it upset you so much?”
   Without speaking, Nicky reached into his nightstand drawer and pulled out a
framed photo, handing it to Tony with a wry smile.
   “My family and I - my REAL family - the only picture I have.”
   Stunned into utter silence Tony could only stare back at Nicky, wide eyed
and flabbergasted:
        It was exactly the same picture.
***** Chapter 5 *****
   Tony called a meeting with Mike, Peter, Micky and Robbie. He sent Davy on
some lengthy errands, and Nicky was asleep in his room.
   “Gentleman, we have a bit of a situation developing that I think you should
all be aware of. I would also like everyone’s input, but this HAS to be kept
from Davy, at least for the moment. Can you handle that Micky?”
   “I guess so.. I mean if it’s a big deal not to say anything.”
   “Once I explain mi amici, I’m sure you’ll agree. You've brought it with
you?”
   Micky nodded, laying Davy’s precious photo on Tony’s kitchen table.
  “Alright, you all saw how upset Nicky was earlier when he ran out of the
house. I went to calm him and he explained everything to me, showing me why.
Brace yourselves gentlemen, this is a shocker.”
   Reaching down beside his chair, Tony picked up Nicky’s photo, placing it on
the table beside Davy’s.
   “I don’t get it,” Micky said, "how?"
   Peter looked at the two pictures in a muddle, a confused scowl marring his
generally sweet placid features.
   “Where did the other one come from?” Robbie spoke up.
   “Well HANG ME OUT WITH THE WASH!” Mike exclaimed with sudden clarity.
   Tony nodded his acknowledgement to the slick Texan with a crooked smile.
   “Come in off the line Mike,” Micky cracked, “and explain it to the rest of
us, cuz I still don't understand.”
   “Mick,” Tony said softly, “you know how Davy lost his family, right
shotgun?”
   “Yaa, he told me about the accident.”
   “What you all may not know is that Nicky was adopted by my foster parents,"
Tony added, "after all of HIS family died in a car accident. His father, mother
and younger brother: David.”
   Stunned, Micky fell off his chair.
   “Do you mean that they -” Robbie fumbled, “they could be-”
   “Brothers.”
   “Oh. My. God!” Micky said from the floor, "Are you SERIOUS?"
   “And they have no idea?” Robbie asked.
   “Nicky has figured it out, and naturally is quite overwhelmed. I gave him a
mild sedative and called you all together - we have to figure out what to do."
   Micky managed to regain his seat, and mouth still agape, closely examined
the two pictures.
   “Wow!” He breathed, "Just - WOW."
   “So without any living relatives to confirm it, how can we find out for
sure?” Peter asked.
   “S'real simple Cotton,” Mike said crossing his long legs, “DNA testing.”
   Tony snapped his fingers.
   “That’s IT!” Mike that's EXACTLY IT! I have a friend that works in the lab
at UCLA - We’ll have both of them go in and get swabbed and have it compared
for family DNA!"
   "Won’t Davy want to know what it’s for?” Robbie pointed out.
   “More than likely yes. We’ll have to sit him down and tell him everything.
But he’s in a very delicate emotional frame of mind; it has to be handled just
right."
   “Last theng inna world I want is for Tiny to be hurt,” Mike drawled, "hate
to get his hopes up n we all be mistaken."
   “Tone?” Micky said, “When you do tell Davy, I’d like to be there for like
moral support.”
   “Tell me wha’?” Davy said from the doorway, grocery sacks in his arms.
   Eyes locked on the little Englishman, everyone froze in a panic
  “Ok kiddo,” Tony stood, shoving the pictures at Micky, “let's get these
groceries put away and we’ll sit down. I have something very important to talk
to you about.”
   While Tony helped Davy put away the groceries, Peter and Mike made tea,
Micky put on a pot of coffee and Robbie rustled up a platter of sandwiches.
They poured some strong coffee into Nicky, giving Davy the chamomile tea, and
gathered back at the table to tackle the difficult situation. Sandwiches in
hand they began the daunting task. Davy sat mutely stunned as Tony explained to
him Nicky’s growing suspicions. The two young men stole furtive, nervous
glances at one another, listening to their histories roll out in front of
everyone.
       Their stories were identical:
   The happy life, the birthday trip to the circus - Mum, dad, Nicholas and
birthday boy David - the dinner before, the fateful decision to go for ice
cream after …
        Rain ...
           Crash ...
               Screaming ...
   After the accident, Nicky was immediately adopted by an American family, as
the British orphanage was so over-crowded.   Davy, who was more seriously
injured, spent a lengthy hospital stay, where it was initially thought that he
would never walk again. So as not to hold Nicky back they were separated, both
unfairly told they were the only survivor. Eventually Robyn took Davy as his
charge and he had regained his ability to walk. They moved to the states and
life went on, neither boy the wiser of the other's survival.
   The entire gathering fell silent, Nicky and Davy regarding one another in
quiet, nervous contemplation. Anxious, Davy finally spoke.
   “So, n-now what?”
   “Now,” Tony said softly, “we go to L.A. and have the two of you swabbed for
DNA comparison. We’ll have an answer for you two, one way or the other, soon
enough.”
   The next day Tony and the two would-be brothers made the drive to Los
Angeles, where Marco Bellini was waiting for them in his lab.
   “Antonio! Mio caro vecchio amico!”
   “Ah, Marco, il mio vero amico!”
   The two men, long-time friends from the old days, hugged each other tightly.
   “These are my boys, Nicky and Davy, boys - Marco Bellini."
   “Sono così bello, si deve essere molto orgoglioso. It is a pleasure to meet
you both. Come this way.”
   They stepped into a cold, sterile-smelling white room filled with fancy,
expensive equipment. Marco seated them side by side and donning rubber gloves
set straight to work. Using a long q-tip with a large head, he swabbed the
inside of Davy's cheek, gathering microscopic particles of cell tissue. He
placed the sample into a plastic bag and labeled it SUBJECT A. Following the
same procedure with Nicky he took another swab, bagging and labeling the sample
SUBJECT B. Sealing both bags and placing them into a third, larger bag, he
turned to the two young men.
   “That’s all there is to it gentlemen, I’ll let you know what I find.”
   “Grazie," Tony smiled, "Good to see you Marco."
   The ride home was uncomfortably quiet, everyone pensive, lost in scattered
thoughts. A mile from home, Tony pulled to the side of the road and killed the
motor.
   “Listen to me carefully, both of you: Whatever comes of this, for better or
worse know that you have in each other a lifelong friend. Do not let your
worries over the test results spoil the holidays for you, or those around you.
Hope for the best - prepare for disappointment. Most importantly, talk to each
other. Worst-case scenario, the two of you have eerily similar histories and
nothing more. Regardless, the gift of each other's friendship and company is
God's love, bringing you both a bit of what you'd once lost, brothers or not."
                                                                                     
*
   The next few weeks passed by with enough pre-Christmas activities to keep
both Davy and Nicky distracted for the most part. Everyone had plans to buy
gifts for everyone else, but Tony organized a name drawing to add some extra
fun. That person would receive a special extra gift, and who you were buying
for had to be kept a secret until Christmas. Sometimes alone, but more often in
pairs or groups, they all enjoyed a great deal of shopping for just the right
presents. Nicky and Davy made time to get to know each other, exchanging
memories and sharing stories of the years in between. With each conversation,
each passing day, they grew more sure of their blood connection to one another.
   Tony was planning the Christmas day dinner he would be making for everyone.
With great care he searched and sought, hoping to create a specific atmosphere
for this very special Christmas. He and Robbie were making another weekend trek
to the city for some hard-to-find ingredients, while Nicky stayed behind with
Davy and the guys.
   They all lounged about in front of the television, snacking and watching old
movies. Davy was in the recliner curled up in Micky’s welcoming lap, while Mike
and Peter stretched out spoon-style on the large sofa. Nicky was sprawled
across the love seat like an old throw rug.
   Lustily, Micky slid a hand under Davy’s shirt and stroked his finely toned
stomach. A moist kiss below his ear and Davy instinctively knew: Micky wanted
to play.
   “We cahn’t,” he whispered in his ear, the dark curls tickling his nose, "put
it in low gear there frisky."
   “Why not?” Micky whispered back, a soft breath in his ear.
   Davy grinned, shaking off a delicious chill.
   “I don’ wanna make Nicky feel awkward.”
   “HAH!” Micky laughed loudly, slapping his own thigh.
   Everyone looked up, curious to see what had the drummer in stitches.
   “Hey Nicky?” Micky said.
   Vehemently, Davy shook his head with wide eyes.
   “Yes?”
   Davy slunk down where he sat wishing desperately that he could melt right
into the recliner.
   “Davy is worried that us messin' around over here is gonna bother you,
whatta you think of that?"
   With genuine amusement, Nicky was now the one laughing, practically falling
off the small couch.
   “Wha'so funny?” Davy asked innocently, feeling totally clueless.
   “Oh David,” Nicky said catching his breath, “we’ve never really discussed it
so you wouldn’t know, but I butter my bread on the other side as well.”
   Mike burst into such a hearty laugh he nearly knocked Peter off the sofa.
Micky grinned at his sheepish sweetheart who sat stunned with his mouth hanging
open.
   “You uh - you're.. erm”
   “Yes, I like guys.” Nicky admitted, “In fact the first time I saw you back
in Yuma I was floored by how beautiful you are.”
   Blushing and squirming in Micky's lap, Davy abruptly closed his mouth.
   “Well you can’t fault his taste,” Micky said, and his eyesight is obviously
perfect."
   “You must be joking!’ Davy said, "Are you two 'aving me on?”
   Nicky stood and crossed the room to where Davy and Micky sat. He placed one
hand on each arm of the chair, boxing Davy in. Leaning in toward him, slow and
seductive Nicky closed his eyes. Davy froze in panic as Nicky drew nearer.
           (CRIKEY! he's NOT gonna KISS me.. Is he?)
   As Nicky came closer, Davy's heart palpitated in his chest, the implications
of what he thought was happening frightening him plum down to his socks. At the
last second, he veered around the Englishman, kissing Micky full on the lips,
long and slow. When he drew back and raised an eyebrow, Davy was too dumbstruck
to even be angry.
   “Believe me now?” Nicky grinned reclaiming his place on the love-seat.
   “Erm.. yaa.” Davy nodded.
   Peter, grinning from ear to ear, was in a delighted fit, tickled by any
gesture of free love he squirmed against Mike behind him with a delicious
wiggle of his hips.
   “So I’ll watch this movie and pretend I don’t see or hear anything else,
okay?” Nicky gave them a wink, "you guys - all of you - just go on about your
business."
   Micky pulled Davy to him and kissed him, tangling his fingers in his thick,
brown hair.
   “We’re going to find him a date!” Davy whispered pointedly with a jealous
grin, "soon!"
   Micky blushed hotly, kissing him again.
                                                                                     
*
   Tucked into bed together Micky and Davy were snuggling against each other
when there came a tap at the door. Mike poked his head in to be sure it was
safe, then hurried inside dragging Peter behind him.
   “Sorry to barge in like this,” he mumbled, “but can we mebbe sleep up here
for tonight?”
   “Wha-huh?” Micky sputtered, casting a longing glance at his sweetheart.
   “Please you guys,” Peter said with a pout, “our bed is squeaky and well,
Nicky is in the next room.. so"
   “Wai’ a minit,” Davy said, shock in his tone, “you wanna come in here to..
to-"
   “Well, yes.” Mike answered frankly.
   “It’ll be dark Davy,” Peter reasoned, “we’ll be in one bed and you guys in
the other. We won’t peek, I promise."
   “I dunno -”
   Micky cut Davy off with a quick peck and whispered in his ear. They looked
at each other a moment and reluctantly, Davy nodded.
   “I’m gonna run some clothesline across the room between the beds and hang a
couple of sheets over it,” Micky said, “then it’ll be okay. ”
   Twenty minutes later the two couples were nestled in bed on either side of
the makeshift curtain. Davy could hear the unmistakable smacking sound of
passionate kissing from the other side of the room. He looked nervously over at
Micky.
   “Just tune it out babe, focus on me.”
   Cupping his little ones face in his hands, Micky kissed his silky lips,
running his tongue across them begging for entry. Relaxing a bit Davy parted
his lips, sliding his tongue smoothly over his lover’s in a ticklish, heated
swordplay. He ran his fingers down the slim, long back, coming to rest on the
Italian’s firm rounded ass. A groan of pleasure from beyond their sight
unexpectedly stoked the fire between them and Davy arched his body in response.
   “More skin!” Micky whispered, quickly stripping his lover down to a smile.
   Peter drew in his breath at the image of Micky undressing Davy that his mind
conjured up. His own erection in Mike’s firm grip pulsed at he thought and his
lover knew without a doubt that he was fantasizing.
   “You’re a bad boy Cotton,” he playfully breathed aloud; "Iknow what you're
thinkin about."
   “Yes I am Michael," he said with an impish grin, "you should teach me a
lesson.” He giggled.
   Mike obliged him with a hard nip to his ear and a twist of his left nipple.
Peter moaned and twisted with desire as the dominating Texan played the role he
loved so well.
   Micky was licking and teasing every bit of the golden flesh beneath him.
Heated by the authority in Mike’s voice, he roughly slapped his lover’s bottom.
   “Suck me Davy!” He demanded, albeit playfully.
   The subtle change in the larger man’s demeanor sent excited thrills to
Davy’s core and he immediately obeyed. Micky rolled onto his side and shucked
out of his boxers, his throbbing manhood ready for attention. Hungrily he took
Davy by the hair, pulling him down onto his hardness. Taking control he drove
himself into his hot mouth with a fierce roughness. Shocked but excited Davy
submitted, allowing himself to be treated like Micky’s little whore. On the
other side of the sheets, Mike jerked hard on his lover’s cock.
   “Don’t you dare cum yet, yore gonna take all I got to give. It's time to get
on your knees babe, papa’s gonna drive you home.”
   “Do it Michael, fuck me hard!”
   “Donchu worry babe, I intend to.”
   Micky pulled away and lay on his back. He stared at Davy with dark and lusty
eyes.
   “Come here little one, come to me.”
   Davy crawled up his body, their throbbing cocks brushing tantalizingly
together as he went. Hovering over him, he kissed him hard, briefly nipping his
bottom lip.
   “I want you Davy, want you inside of me.”
   Davy growled low and sucked hard at Micky’s neck as he fumbled for the lube
on the bedside table. He could hear Mike slamming into Peter with ruthless
abandon, while Peter pleaded for permission to cum. Mad with desire Davy took
charge. He squeezed some gel into Micky’s hand and positioned his slippery
hard-on against his lover’s ass.
   “Im gonna fuck you now,” the little Brit said throatily, “and yer gonna jerk
yourself off. Do it now - and don't even think of letting go till I say!”
   Totally turned on by Davy’s newfound assertion Micky promptly did as he was
instructed, quickly building a delicious, steady rhythm.
   "You’ll keep on till I tell you that you can stop, do you understand?“ He
ordered, and slid himself into Micky’s waiting warmth.
   "Oh GOD,” Mike moaned at the sound of Davy’s commanding tone, his fervor
stoked by the images building in his mind.
   “Oh shit Davy!” Micky cried out, burying his face in the smaller man’s
chest, "it's so intense!"
   “Oh PLEASE Michael!” Peter begged.
   “Bloody take it babe,” Davy snarled, driving him fiercely with a crazed
passion, “and stroke it 'arder!”
   “Ohhmmmaahhike,” Peter moaned.
   “OhHELL yes!” Mike cried out, “Cum for me Peter!”
   “Oh Micky, Micky!”
   “Please Davy - PLEASE babe!”
   The cacophony of carnal sounds drove them all to a wild frenzy, feeding off
each other’s passionate moans of ecstasy the four men came to earth-shattering
orgasm at once, with pleasured cries of agony. A loud silence overtook the
room, stretching on indefinitely as the two couples struggled to gain control
of their breathing and composure.
   “Wow," Micky said breathlessly, "that was-"
   " ... Interesting," Mike finished in the darkness.
   Shocked by his own behavior and faintly amused, Davy giggled, mildly pleased
to no longer be a virgin in this regard.
   “Mmm," Peter sighed, "Goodnight everyone - sleep well. I knowI will."
   Pleased with the success of his little scheme and satisfied beyond belief,
Mike snuggled against him contentedly and drifted off to sleep.
***** Chapter 6 *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
   It was a week before Christmas Eve when the registered letter arrived. Tony
called a family meeting for lunch, everyone gathering at the diner at noon.
Excited chatter and talk of the week's holiday plans made for a lively and
pleasant meal, excitement bubbling from eager, smiling faces. When everyone had
finished eating, Tony cleared his throat and began to address his noisy brood.
    “The reason I brought you all here today is because I have some rather big
news. The DNA test results came in from the lab in this morning’s mail.”
   A sudden, tense hush fell over the group. Davy and Nicky sat entranced -
unable to speak - barely able to breathe
   “I have the letter here with me - I haven’t opened it; I didn't feel it was
my place."
   He held it out to the two pale-faced young men who sat side by side, neither
of them moving to take it from his outstretched hand.
    “Davy?” Tony said expectantly.
   “I.. I c-cahn’t do it.”
    Tony turned to Nicky with the same anticipatory stare.
   “Huh, don’t look at me!”
   “You - you read it Tony, please?” Davy squeaked.
   Nicky nodded.
   Resigned, the older man sighed and nodded in agreement. He slid a clean
table knife along the top of the envelope, making a smooth cut. It seemed now
that everyone held their breath in eager anticipation of the details to come.
Removing the pages carefully he unfolded them. Thumbing through them, he read
each one thoroughly with a master poker-face.
   “Well?” Micky asked, squirming on the edge of his seat, "what does it say?"
   Tony looked at Nicky and Davy, his expression a blank mask of his thoughts.
Returning to the documents he read them aloud:
   “DNA comparison between subject A adult male, eighteen and subject B adult
male, twenty for possible familial status. Test was run on three separate
occasions concurrently at this lab with identical results obtained after each
trial.”
   He paused to take a sip of water. Davy and Nicky trembled, sweat beading on
their faces.
   “It is the determination of this facility," he continued, "that the two
subjects in question stand a 99.99975 percent likelihood of being direct blood
relatives.” he concluded.
   “What does that mean in English?” Micky said in frustration.
   “It means,” Tony smiled, “that Davy and Nicky are indeed brothers.”
   "Oh my God!“ Robbie cried.
   Mike gave a long whistle.
   "This is wonderful!” Peter said tearfully.
   Tony nodded, beaming with pride.
   Micky clapped a hand on Davy’s shoulder, but the younger man didn’t even
notice.
   He turned to face Nicky - his Nicholas - his big brother, who had turned to
face him as well. Their hands clasped, Davy stroked his free hand down Nicky’s
face as if seeing him for the very first time. Nicky touched his baby brother’s
feather-soft hair.
   With tear-filled eyes the dam gave way, the two men embracing each other as
if their very lives depended on it. Rocking in each other’s arms, they gave
vent to years of grief and loneliness. Still clinging to each other tears of
joy fell on either mans shoulders, watering the seeds that fate had planted,
bringing a new beginning to both of their lives. Tony looked across the table,
his own happy tears falling and spoke softly under his breath.
   “Merry Christmas boys.”
                                                                                     
*
   The next week was a flurry of activity. Last minute shopping, presents to
wrap and family fun kept everyone busy, happy and tired. The two brothers spent
time getting reacquainted, falling into an easy routine as if they’d never
missed a beat.
Tony hung stockings for the whole family, with the instructions that everyone
was welcome to place little trinkets inside: The large, red-velvet socks were
bursting at the seams by Christmas Eve. Presents overran both trees, both
underneath and among the branches, the houses smelling of cinnamon, cookies,
chocolate, pine, peppermint and ripe tangerines.
   Tuesday night they went into town with hot chocolate and doughnuts to watch
the parade. Micky and Davy cuddled up close, enjoying the festivities and a few
discrete kisses. Peter, ever-joyful Peter - was in his element, smiling
exuberantly like the innocent child he truly was in his heart. They spent
Wednesday night Christmas caroling and came home to enjoy hot cider and a
bonfire on the beach. Thursday they helped a local church to distribute food
and gift baskets, enjoying a live nativity and Christmas play after a light
dinner.
   Christmas Eve dawned golden and crisp. The magic and excitement everyone
felt was so profound it was like a precious childhood dream. They spent the day
well, laughing and loving their family time. Frolicking on the beach, they
attempted to build sand-snowmen that were charmingly lopsided, a game of tag
and a blood pumping volleyball match left them pleasantly tired and thirsty for
Peter’s fabulous cranberry-lemonade. Instead of lunch, they snacked on popcorn,
pretzels and the delicious butter cookies that Nicky had made, playing a
competitive and boisterous game of Monopoly.
   They gathered at the boys’ pad for a supper of sandwiches, pasta salad,
Mike’s chili and a sparkling red punch. Christmas music tinkled in the
background as they ate and shared stories of favorite Christmases past. They
turned in at ten that night, to be up early for their full and special first
Christmas together.
   At six o'clock in the morning, Tony was serving flapjacks and bacon, orange
juice with champagne ice-cubes and fabulous coffee to his sleepy-eyed bunch.
Showered and turned out in their best, they all drove into town for the early
Christmas service at the Presbyterian Church.
   Back at the house, Tony was happily cooking his heart out; He had declared
the kitchen off-limits and worked all afternoon in blissful, excited secrecy.
Gathered in the front room near the tree, Tony had made it clear to everyone
that the presents and stockings were verboten - until dinner was had and
everyone was together. Nicky and Davy had made a special surprise they were
anxious to share with the family, but that too would have to wait. At three
o'clock sharp, Tony came into the room and smiled at the loved ones he so
dearly cherished.
   “Dinner is ready, but I have something to say before we go into the kitchen:
Christmas is a special day, always. This one however is our first all together
- and the first that Nicky and Davy have shared in twelve years.”
   The brothers looked lovingly to each other, grateful, happy grins etched on
their shining faces.
   “Christmas and family - it's the most natural combination - but one that so
many take for granted. The memories we hold dear, the new ones we make, those
we surround ourselves with and the joy that each one brings - that’s the
Christmas I wanted for all of us this year, most of all for you two,” he said
to Davy and Nicky.
   “That being said, Merry Christmas my dear family, I love you all. Please
join me now for dinner - in Manchester at Malibu.”
   Curious and famished everyone paraded behind him into the kitchen. The table
was set and over-laden with so much food it looked as if it would at any moment
collapse under the weight. Surrounding the table they stared in awe at the
incredible meal before them.
   “Oh my God!” Davy cried!
   “Tony -” Nicky fumbled, “how did you know - it’s just - EVERYTHING is -”
   “PERfect!” He and Davy said in unison.
   “I wanted it to be like it was when you were boys, just one more time.”
   “Is that Yorkshire pudding?" Nicky exclaimed.
   "Cornish hens and treacle tarts!” Davy pointed with delight, “and MINCE
PIES!”
   “Roast beef and cabbage! Candy apples - and plum pudding!” Nicky shouted.
   “Parsnips n mash and figs with real clotted cream Nicky!" Davy cried
excitedly.
   "Tony is that asparagus almandine?”
   “Yes,” Tony smiled at their simple joy, “I did my homework on traditional
Christmas dinner foods from the region you two are from and well, I was hoping
I'd at least get SOME of it right.”
   “This - this is OUTSTANDING!” Davy beamed.
   “Tony, you’re absolutelyincredible,” Nicky smiled, “thank you so much!”
   “Yes, thank you!” Davy added, "This is amazing!"
   “So let’s stop admiring all this GORGEOUS food,” Micky jumped in, “and start
eating it, I'm starving!"
   And eat it they did till they could hold no more, washing it down with
traditional wassail and brandy wine. When the time came, Davy and Nicky
together cut the first piece of plum pudding.
   “I feel like a kid again,” Nicky said giddy as a schoolboy.
   “So do I,” Davy grinned, “it’s just like going 'ome - going back in time."
   Sucking a piece of the sticky pudding from his thumb, he squeezed his eyes
shut, momentarily finding himself in another place and time.
   “As fine as this here food is,” Mike spoke up with a hand on his now-rounded
belly, “it’s a wonder you English boys don’t get bigger!”
   “Not everything can be big like Texas Michael,” Peter gave a teasing nudge.
   “Tony you’ve REALLY outdone yourself my friend,” Robbie complimented, “this
was such an amazing meal!”
   “I’ll second that,” Micky said, “I knew you were a great cook, but this -
this takes the cake … or plum pudding if you’ll pardon the pun.”
   “Tasted just like 'ome.” Davy smiled broadly.
   “Here! Here!” Nicky agreed.
   “Thank you, but enough,” Tony chuckled, “I have to get my head through the
door if we’re ever going to open those presents!”
   The mention of presents was enough to send everyone scrambling into the
living room, bulging stomachs and all. Like hungry baby birds, they all sat
with eager expectancy, looking up at Tony from the sectional sofa.
    “Mike, have all of the gifts been brought over here?”
    “Yessiree that’s ever' last one of em.”
   “Wonderful. Boys?” He said to the two brothers, “You have a surprise, did
you want to bring it out or do we have the stockings first?”
   Nicky whispered in Davy’s ear, the younger whispering back.
   “Stockings first,” Davy said, "and we’ll be right back.”
   When they returned they carried in two small bags. Sitting on the floor,
they tucked them discreetly between their crossed legs and tore into their
hefty stockings.
   “Thanks Tiny,” Mike grinned, holding up the bottle of hot sauce Davy had
tagged in his Christmas sock.
   “New guitar picks!” Peter exclaimed, “Thank you Robbie!”
   “Where did you find this excellent toffee?” Robbie asked Mike.
   “Little shop up the coast a piece, I’ll take ya there some time.”
   “OH MY GOD!” Micky cried, “Tony THANK YOU - This cologne is my FAVORITE but
I cannever afford it!”
   “Sei Bubola benvenuti.”
   “Nicky you’re awesome,” Tony squeezed his shoulder, “How did you know?”
   “Mi fratello maggiore, you’ve made of my life all the wonderful things that
it is. I watch you; I know what catches your eye.”
   “What is it?” Micky asked.
   Tony held up a necklace of Italian silver with a black onyx cross pendant.
   “That's GORGEOUS!” Robbie stated earnestly, "very you!"
   “I knew he’d never buy it for himself,” Nicky smiled at his benefactor, “so
I did.”
   “Oh Micky!” Davy said, tears in his eyes.
   “What is it Davy?” Nicky asked.
   With joyous tears coursing down, Davy held out the necklace for his brother
to see. It was an antique locket of gold on a fine golden chain. The heart-
shaped locket was open, showing the tiny pictures inside: On the left a picture
of five-year-old Davy, the right a six-year-old Nicky.
   Nicky looked at Micky with heartfelt respect and admiration.
   “How? Where did you ...”
   Micky smiled, sincerely happy with the pleasure in both of their faces.
   “I borrowed some pictures from Davy’s box and took them to the photo counter
- they enhanced em and made the prints for me. I found the locket at an antique
shop in town.”
   Davy crossed the room and threw himself into Micky’s lap, hugging him with
all his might.
   “Thank you SO much,” he whispered, “I’ll cherish it, always.”
   “I’ll always cherish YOU,” he whispered back, kissing him tenderly.
   “So,” Tony interrupted, “what’s this surprise you two have?”
   “Right!” Davy said excitedly, jumping up from Micky’s lap.
   He and Nicky huddled together, whispering back and forth. Sifting through
the two bags, they swapped a few things between them and turned to the rest of
the family.
   “One of the things that Davy and I loved so much as kids in England was
something our folks made for us every Christmas.”
   “It was a high point fer us, something mum n dad gave us to quell our
excitement on Christmas Eve,” Davy added.
   “Neither of us has ever made any before, so we had to go to the library to
figure out how.. so if they don’t work the right way …” Nicky trailed off.
   “Well then, we’re sorry. But they still 'old some fun in em!”
   “What is it?” Robbie asked, his curiosity revved.
   “We made crackahs,” Davy smiled proudly.
   “Crackers?” Micky was confused.
   “Yes,” Nicky said, “or poppers they’re sometimes called -”
   “I know what those are!” Peter exclaimed, “They're long bonbons made of
heavy, shiny paper. Two people pull on one from each end and when it breaks
apart, it makes a popping or 'cracking’ sound.”
   “Right!” Davy said, “Inside is a small trinket or treat intended for the
person or people you 'ave crack em open!”
   “That is totally cool!” Tony said, genuinely impressed.
   “We’ve made a bunch - some have names on them - the rest are for just
anybody.”
   “Well then, let's see what you’ve done with them!”
   Nicky handed his first, a fairly large one, to Peter and Mike.
   “It’s for both of you, so you have to pull it together.”
   Grinning like big kids they each took hold of an end of the brightly colored
tootsie-roll-shaped bauble.
   “Right then,” Davy instructed, “on the count of three - pull - one, two
THREE!”
   The cracker exploded apart with a loud pop! Confetti and small colored
streamers flew through the air startling the two, bringing delighted laughter
all around. Two small thumps hit the carpet near their feet, and they stared in
wonder at the prize: A matching set of gold-plated rings with their initials
etched inside. Mike picked them up with delicate, trembling hands and held them
in his palm.
   “These are couples rings!” He said in amazement.
   “We know you and Petah care very much fer each othah,” Davy smiled.
   “Now you have a physical and outward symbol of that bond,” Nicky finished.
   Starry-eyed, the two lovers placed the rings on each other’s right hands,
sealing their gesture with a passionate kiss. Peter, walking on a cloud, had
happy tears in his eyes.
   “Okay,” Davy said, “Tony this one is yours.”
   They handed out popping treasures till the bags were empty and confetti
littered the room, the pure joy of giving clear in their excited faces. Tony
put the next stack of Christmas albums on the old record player and brought a
fresh-chilled bottle of wine from the kitchen.
   “Okay,” he said with a pleased and peaceful smile, “we have a TON of
packages to open - we need a volunteer to play Santa and hand them out.”
   Nicky and Davy both jumped at the chance.
   “You go 'head Nicky,” Davy reluctantly smiled.
   “No it’s alright, you can do it,” his brother countered.
   “Well it just so happens that I have two Santa hats,” Tony winked at them,
“what do you say, team Santa?”
   “Sure!”
   “Yes!”
   Donning the red velvet caps the boys dove into the pile of gifts that stood
as tall as Davy, and the real frenzy began: Ripping paper and delighted squeals
nearly drowned out Bing Crosby, hugs and thank you’s crossing the room like
ping-pong balls in an international championship. Ninety minutes and fifty-six
presents later, Tony and Mike’s eyes met across the room. Nodding to each
other, they mutely spoke the same words: This is ours - our family - we are the
leaders. We have much to be proud of, much to be thankful for.
   “I guess that about wraps it up,” Tony said to his nestlings, “except for
one last thing. Before we get this mess picked up, I have one last present to
give.”
   He reached into the very top branches of the tree, deep in the center and
pulled out a thick envelope.
   “Although this gift isn’t just for you two,” he said to Davy and Nicky, “I’d
like for you boys to open it.”
   Eagerly, they took the beribboned package and tore open the sealed end.
Peering inside, their eyes widened and gasps of excitement flew from their open
mouths.
   “What!”
   “What is it?”
   “Tell us!”
   Tony smiled.
   “No WAY!” Nicky exclaimed.
   “Is this for REAL?” Davy asked jumping to his feet.
   “Absolutely.”
   “For cornsake!” Mike said exasperated with suspense, “Tell us what it is!”
   “Seven tickets!” Davy began.
   “For a ski trip to Aspen Colorado!” Nicky finished.
   Micky, Peter and Robbie counted heads.
   “For ALL of us?” Micky said, now on his feet.
   “Yes,” Tony nodded, “I figured with Davy and Mike having birthdays next week
right on top of New Year’s Eve, it’d be a great way to bring in the New Year.”
   “I’ve never been to Colorado!” A giddy Peter said.
   “I’ve never been skiing,” Mike said nervously.
   “Nothing to it Mike,” Davy winked, “I’ll teach you ev'rything you need to
know!”
   “Tony this is a FABULOUS gift,” Robbie spoke up, “but it must’ve cost a
fortune!”
   “Guys, I’m very.. well-off,” Tony admitted. “It isn’t something I talk
about, but you all are my family now. My grandmamma, rest her soul, left me a
fortune. I have made some investments, and right now, today, if I never made
another dime in interest, I could keep us all comfortably for the rest of our
lives. It’s only money.”
   They all stared at him slack-jawed, but for Nicky, who already knew.
   “So.. when do we leave?” Micky asked with a raised eyebrow.
   “Our flight leaves at three o'clock tomorrow afternoon. So I suggest we
break into teams, one to clean up this wreck,” he gestured to the floor with a
chuckle, “and the other to help wrap and freeze all the leftovers.”
   The work finished and the wine drank up, Robbie, Tony and Nicky helped to
carry the boys’ Christmas loot to their own beach house. Everyone had gone to
bed, except for Davy. He sat on the back veranda staring up at the stars, a
peace in his heart he hadn’t felt in ages. Totally content, he was drifting on
a merry-go-round of whimsical euphoria, when a firm hand on his back caught him
off guard: It was Nicky.
   “Hi. I thought everyone else was asleep.”
   “I’m headed that way. I just wanted to tell you something Davy.”
   “Oh? Wha'sat?”
   “You are the best thing I got for Christmas this year. I would trade every
present I’ve ever gotten in my entire life to have these last twelve years
back, with you in them. Now that I have you back, there’s nothing I could ever
want again. I love you little brother."
   Choked up, Davy struggled to find words.
   “Nicky, for so long I’ve drifted through my life in a haze. Nameless,
belonging nowhere to nobody. I dreamt of you most nights - you were my only
companion - sometimes my only lifeline. I haven’t truly felt whole since my
seventh birthday, most times not even human. Finding you gave me that back -
gave me my LIFE back - my purpose. You are the other half of who I am. I love
you too."
   They cried and held each other beneath the moon, which had finally,
blessedly smiled on the two Jones boys.
   “Merry Christmas Nicky.”
   “Merry Christmas Davy.”
Chapter End Notes
     Thanks to the Big Bad Boss for all of his input and one good
     spanking.
Please drop_by_the_archive_and_comment to let the author know if you enjoyed
their work!
