You had it all

by MariqueenM

Summary:

Mike Patton had a weird relationship with a brazilian couple for a while and left. Now he looks back on what he lost and try to make up for the lost time.

Notes:

This is some crazy fueled fantasy I have about Patton, I hope you guys enjoy and join me in it.

Chapter 1: This is how you tell me?

PING

The sound makes her stomach drop.

“WHAT THE FUCK?!”

Her phone rings, she doesn’t expects the person on the other side to say anything before going:

“Mike, seu filho da puta!”
“Heeeeey” he says on the other side
“O que você acha que nós somos? Uma vagabunda qualquer que não merece notícias suas??”
“Missed you too..”
“Where the hell are you right now?”
“Listen, I’m waiting in a line… And where I’m going depends on your yes or no”
“What do you mean?”
“I have 15 minutes to buy a ticket to Brazil”
“What?!?”
“Yes or no”
“Mike, I…”
“Yes or no”
“Oh for fucks sake…” she says under her breath “Yes, Mike”
“Call you in a bit”

There have been years since the last time she exchanged words over the phone with Mike Patton, and here he was calling right after she saw news about his separation.

The phone vibrate again, it was her husband.

“What the fuck?!” He said as soon she answered.
“I know right? You saw it too, then…”
“I did, that aloof mother fucker”
“So… Guess who called?”
“No way!”
“Yep… He’s coming”
“What? Now?”
“I guess so, he called from the airport”
“Un-fucking-believeble… Let me know how this goes…”
“Honey…”
“Baby… I trust you. Whatever you say it is… I’m down for it!”
“I love you…”
“I love you too… But…”
“What?”
“Give him hell…”

Am I really doing this? She thought pouring what would be the first of many… many cups of coffee in that day. The phone vibrates again, the different area code…

“Hello…” She answers reluctantly knowing it was him…
“I’m sorry for the short notice, my life is been hell lately”
“I imagine… Mike…”
“I wanted to call, I wanted to talk to you… To you both… But I didn’t know how you guys would take this”
“Mike, there are rules…”
“I know… Is the test one of them still?”
“Of course it is!”
“I’m sending you the results”
“You took the test before talking to me?”
“I didn’t want to wait!”
“Mike, How long till you’re here?”
“Tomorrow, around 3 pm. I’m going to a hotel and…”
“You know damn well you’re not going to any hotel… You’re staying with us”
“Sarah…”
“You’re staying with us! There’s too much to talk!”
“Can’t wait to see tou both…”
“It’s just me for now. Alex is in a work trip. He’s back in 5 days…”
“Is he ok with this?”
“He said he trust me to make the right decisions”
“I missed you both so much…”
“I send you the new address”

So much time passed, but his voice… His voice still did the trick for her. In the next day, Mike would be back in her and Alex’s life… And what could it be this time?

****

The coffee maker pinged at the same time as the intercom. The universe was aligning faster.

“Sarah” the door man spoke in a hushed tone “hmm there is a guy here… He speaks a weird portuguese” she stiffled a laugh. Serves him well for not practicing. “Said his name is Michael” The door guy stated

“Let him up, Miguel. Thanks! Is he carrying bags?"

"I'll help him. He has a lot of stuff”

Sarah was awaiting by the door when the elevator opened and Miguel came out rolling a suitcases. Mike was right behind him with a backpack and another suitcase.

“Thank you so much Miguel!” Sarah was taking the suitcase from him.

“Not a problem m’am”

“Thanks man!” Mike and Miguel fist bumped and Miguel left closing the door.

“Hey sweetie…” Mike open his arms for a hug.
“Yeah, not so fast!”
“What? I just wanted a hug from you…”
He felt the slap across his face, which only made his smile grow wider.
“I missed you too”
Sarah walked to the kitchen and came back with a termic bottle of coffee.
“Take off your shoes before you walk in” she said walking to the couch. At the table in front of it there were two mugs.
“Ohh you missed me! You made coffee for me!”
“I like coffee too” she scoffed “or you have been away for so long you forgot?”
Mike rolled his eyes while removing his sneakers“I forgot nothing about you” and walked to the couch by her side

“So…” he was pouring coffee in a mug written Fuck Off in a flowery pattern “What do you wanna talk about first?”

Another slap across his face.

“Ok, let’s start there”

“What the hell Mike…”

Mike Patton have kept his cynical smile and defying eyes up until this point. His smile faded a bit and he averted his gaze from her.

He sunk into the couch feeling the warmth of the mugs between his hands.

“I called you because I didn’t know what else to do” He licked his lips “and calling you was the hardest parto f it all, because, I thought you would hang up on me“

“I was worried sick about you Mike“ She extended her hand in the couch and he lays his hand over hers still looking straight ahead. “I had to learn about your divorce over the internet! In a stupid music gossip magazine”

“It was a weird arrangement we had... Would not call it a marriage.”

“And Why???” Sarah went over her hairs with her fingers, nails on the scalp, trying to give her frustration some phisical release “Whys did you went over with this?

“I wanted to have something real! Something I could count on!” He finally looked at her. His eyes wide and face turning red. He was trying really hard not to cry.

He hated crying in front of other people. And as close as they were, she was still other people and he had troubles letting it go. Even when it was eating him inside. And now... It was eating him inside.

He left his hair grow out form the last time they saw each Other and was pulled in a short pony tail. Sarah wanted to reach her hand and touch his hair, the back of his neck, his face and the stubs of growing beard in his chin... But if she touched him... If he touched her now, They would not be able to keep this conversation going. And he needed to vent.

“Mike...” Sarah was using the softest voice she could muster, even though the willing of slaping him again arouse from time to time “You left, because you wanted to find something for your self. You said you didn’t wanted to be here anymore...”

“I didn’t wanted to feel like an attachemnt to you both...”

Sarah stopped talking, she was having problems organizing what he just said in her mind.

“An attachm... What do you mean?”

“I was na outsider in your relationship!” He reached for her with both his hands but she removed her self from the couch and started walking around the living room. Stopping Only to fill the mug with more coffee.

“Why is the the first time I’m listening to this?” She elevated her voice “Didn’t you consider uttering this words to us! Saying that you felt like this?”

“I didn’t wanted... I didn’t wanted you guys to... To...”

“To what, Mike? Use your goddamn words!”

This last frase made Mike realign himself in the couch. He was not used to have Sarah saying this to him. But he could think of more than a handful of times he said the exctly same thing to her.

“I didn’t wanted you guys to pity me!”

“Pity you? We never thought of that! We were all equal here!”

“I wanted something for me like what you had with Alex!” Mike stood up and and walked at Sarah’s Direction, she dodged him and went to the oposite side of the coffee table.

“What I have with Alex? You had exactly what I have with Alex!” She was pointing accusingly at him “You had me and Alex! And you left!”

The silence in the room after that last phrased echoed in both his minds. Sarah sat back in the couch and Mike pulled up a chair from the table he was near and sat on.

“I only figured out I had that after I left...”

“Because you didn’t talked to us” Sarah said with a longuing for the time They had together before “You left and you pushed us back farther and farther...”

“I did not...”

“You did so... I called you, and you talked with us... But I was the Only one reaching out. At the end of the day, I thought maybe I should stop calling. Or waiting for you to reach back out. We left on good terms Mike, you didn’t have to push us Away...” Sarah was holding back tears. Trying to convey to Mike how Much he was missed.

“You know what was the worst part of your calls?” Sarah looked at him awaiting “Was Fighting the urge to call you back after you hang up. Calling you back and begging to come back... Begging to come back and forget I left”

Tears rolled down Sarah’s cheecks. Mike continued without looking at her...

“Get back to feeling home in your Arms, to having coffee with you and Alex in the morning. Drinks at night... Talking shit about life with Alex, while you sleep nestled in bed between us...” He was facing the door to the patio outside, it was a beautiful day to be out, to enjoy life... And here they are, trying to heal old wounds by poking them further and further.

“Oh Mike...” Sarah sighed... “You didn’t had to beg... All you had to do was ask...”

Mike took a deep breath with his eyes closed. They looked at each other.

“I missed you...” Mike said and Sarah smiled wiping the tears from her face. “Now sit in this chair” he said getting up

“No, Mike” Sarah said smiling “We have so Much to talk about, we won’t go down this path now”

“Please, Sarah... Sit in the chair.” He was serious, in his eyes Sarah could see he had already made up his mind and was sliping into his Dom persona. And not much more was necessary to make her get into her sub-self.

“Will we surface from this, and talk about it again?”

Mike walked in her direction and knelt at her feet. “We will” He held her face in his hands “We will get straight everything there is to be. I promise you...”

He inched his face close to her and talked in a wisper

“But I haven’t been in control of anything in my life lately... And would feel so, so sweet to be in control of you again”

“Ok...” Sarah consented. Mike smiled and placed a tender peck in her lips.

He got up from his knees and walked back to where he was, placing his hands in the back of the chair. When he looked back at Sarah, he was all in again

“Sit in this chair, now!” He said banging the chair on the floor.

Sarah sat in the chair with her hands in her lap. She had a long skirt and a tanktop. Mike positioned himself in front of her and sat on the floor with his legs crossed. He picked her left foot and started massaging it, pressing a few spots in her sole while she softly moaned.
Mike placed that foot in his knee. Runnig his hand up her calf, he lifted her skirt up to her knee.

“Place your other foot here” he said patting his knee, and she did. “Now lift your hip from the chair”

“Mike...”

“Shhhh...” He said softly “I didn’t said you could speak, did I?”

Sarah, rolled her eyes and pushing down his legs with her feet as she lift her hip from the chair.

“Here’s what you gonna do.” He extended his arms reaching the side of her panties from under the skirt. “Everytime I’m in front of you..” He slowly slid her panties down her legs “You will look for my eyes” with his arms he could feel the goosebumps arousing in her legs “And if I’m not looking at you, you will look at me waiting until I meet your eyes” He put her feet together, and completely removed her panties. “Are we clear?”

“Yes”

Mike smiled and stood up. With the same hand that held her panties, he lifted her chin to meet his gaze and lightly squeeze her cheeks

“Yes... What?” He said slowly

“Yes... Sir...”

He approached her face without letting go of her chin, and holding her gaze all the time.

“Good girl” he smiled “Now...” He approached even more, his slips lightly grazing her face “Put your hands behind the back of the chair”

Sarah did. Every order sent a chill down her spine. Miked walked behind her and tied her wrists with her panties. Tying her was nothing more than a symbol of the control he had over her at this moment. He knew that his words were all that he need to keep her in place.

He place his hands on her shoulders “Sarah, sweetie” he squeezed her a bit “I want you to take a deep breath through your nose, and let it go through your mouth”

Sarah took a deep breath without exitation and let it through her lips. This power play had nothing specially sexual to it... yet. But Mike liked the way he had this type of control over her. How he could feel her ease into his orders, without questioning. And dominating Sarah was a special thing to him.

Sarah wasn’t entirely submissive... He could see a fire behind her eyes, he could feel that he had control only because she wanted him to. His position of dominance was Always being tested...
He quickly move his left hand to her neck and lightly squeezed. Sarah let out a surprised gasp

“Keep breathing” He said “In” she pulled in the air “and out” he ran his nails trhrough her scalps from behind her head. She let go the air trembling.

Mike grabbed a handfull of her hair and pulled a little back. He increased bit by bit his grip on her neck. Everytime she breath he feels the air flowing. Pulling her head back until she was looking up and he could see her face, turning a little flustered. She looked in his eyes and smiles.

“You are doing such a good job...” He says letting go of her neck and putting her head back in place.

Sarah is still taking deep breaths to get her air back from the chocking. Mike was now in front of her.

“Sarah... Open your mouth and put your tongue out” She smirked a little and did as she was told.

Mike reached with his left middle finger inside her mouth and slid from the back of her tongue to the tip. Sarah gagged slightly which made him scoff.

“Sarah...” Mike licked the tip of his finger that was just in Sarah’s tongue, he showed her his Middle and index finger together “I’m gonna put this two fingers in your mouth and you gonna suck on them. Clear?”

Sarah nodded still with her mouth open. Miked laughed a little.

“You can close your mouth and answer”

“Yes sir.” Sarah smiled

Mike put the two finger though her lips and moves them slowly in and out her mouth. Feeling the pressure of her tongue and the senstaion of she sucking on them. He reached for the back of her head with his right hand and pulled closer to him.

“Sarah... spread your knees” She did.

And he use this space to come closer to her. He was towering over her, from between her legs, looking into her eyes while she felated his fingers. Mike removed his hand from the back of her neck and undid his pants. His erection was almost painful at this moment. Her spit wetting his palms and dripping down his wrist. She was contorting herself in the chair and squeezing his legs between her tighs.

He caressed her face with his right hand. “Sarah, change hands”

Sarah jerked her head back and went to his right hand. He used his two finger to caress her lip, and went straight to the inside of her mouth.

Mike reach for his cock with his left hand, dripping of Sarah’s saliva. He starts very slow, running his fist over the length of his member. The wet sound of his fingers in and out Sarah’s lips, her softy moaning and caressing his legs with hers. Mike’s is just absorbing all this stimulli. His mind filled with images of past encounter of him and Sarah. And this moment... this moment where he could feel Sarah again beneath him, he could in certain way feel the inside of her body once again. This was too much to take. Too much to be taken all at once. Yet here he is taking all of it. He stroked his cock a few times as slowly as he could take without losing his mind. Prolonguing this maddening feeling. Feeling the sensation build up inside of him. He felt like if Sarah reached her hand and touched him, he would gladly burst into a million pieces.

Sarah had her eyes closed, lost in the moment as well “Sarah, look in my eyes” She opened her eyes and was al lhe could take. He climaxed, removing his fingers from Sara’s mouth and squeezing her neck one last time. She gasped for air a bit as she was not expecting it.

Mike had held the tipo f his cock to not cum over her. Mike removed him self from Sarah’s legs and put his dick back in his pants letting his cum in his underwear.

He looked at Sarah’s face and notice she had teared up a bit with his fingers down her throat. He suddenly felt overwhelmed with everything. The sudden flight from US landing in Brazil, the jet lag, the emotional conversation with Sarah... The release of having had an orgasm dominating Sarah... It was all too much to handle.

He took a few steps back

“Mike” He looked frightened “Mike are you ok?” Sarah called for him still in the chair.

He sat down in the same couch Sarah was before. He looked lost “Mike” he heard her voice almost lost in white noise... “Mike, let me out of here”

“Sarah...” He muttered still feeling everything was just too much “Sarah, you’re free to leave the chair”

Sarah easily removed her wrists from the tie he put her in and she ran over to the couch. “Mike...” She held his face in her hands “Mike, I’m here...”

“You... you are?” Mike looked so confuse, so lost... But felt so relieved with the realization that he was indeed there with Sarah

“I am, Mike! I’m here and so are you...”

And Mike did what he was holding back since the moment he saw Sarah... He cried.

“Oh poor thing...”

Sarah lifted her skirt up to her tighs and sat on Mike’s lap with one leg on each side of him. She craddled his face in her hands again.

“We are both here...” and she pulled his head to her chest swaying him back and forth while he held onto her like his life depended on it...

Chapter 2: What is supposed to be

Summary:

How does Mike feel coming down of the moment Sarah and him had together?

He still has some questions and concerns… Specially about Alex

Sarah stirred in her sleep. One of the perks of having the bed entirely for her when Alex travelled was the option to sleep like a starfish on the bed. Except… She wasn’t supposed to be alone. And that memory jolted her awake sitting on the bed.

Like all the tiredness had been swiped off from her body, she looked around the room. Mike’s suitcase was in the corner, a physical proof that the happenings of the last day were real. That wasn’t a dream, he was really there. Then where the hell was he?

- Mike? - Sarah called out to the bathroom that had a door a little open with the light on

He wasn’t there.

Leaving the bathroom, she heard a splashing sound. Looking out the window, the pool was just out of your line of sight.

She walked downstairs barefoot. The night air was heavy and hot, the hair glued to the sweat on the back of the neck just as she left the room with the air conditioner on.

The living room had a double sliding glass door to the outside part. Where the pool was. A small above ground pool, just to be able to appease the heat in hot weather. Weather just like today.

As soon as Sarah opened the doors to the outside, Mike turned his head in her direction.

- Did I woke you up? - He asked pushing his wet hair out of his face.
- No… - Sarah walked in his direction - What are you doing? It’s like four a.m.!
- I couldn’t go back to sleep… - He said leaning in the border - I left the room to not wake you up, but it was too damn hot.
- Yeah… - Sarah said - It happens in this time of the year… You must have forgotten…

Sarah sustained his gaze with a teasing smile. He wanted to talk back, he had a few choice lines to get back at her. But deep down, she was right. He was away for so long. He didn’t forgot her warmth… But by God, he forgot the warmth of the weather.

- Are you…? - she approached kneeling down on the damp floor and picking up the thermos, realizing there was a mug close to the border - Are you having coffee at the pool?
- Yes! - he said - Sounded like a good idea
- It does actually sound like a good idea… - she murmured

Sarah picked the coffee mug and walked to the border of the pool. Hiking up her nightgown and sitting dipping her legs in the water. Mike pushed the opposite border and glided in Sarah’s direction, submerging half way there. Only to come up again, head between her knees, now over his shoulders, while facing the same direction as her.

She laughs of how he got himself into that position. Scratching his scalp while taking the mug to her lips

***

- Shhhh…. - Sarah took a deep breath, clinging to Mike’s frame while keeping rocking him slowly - I got you… I got you…

He wasn’t crying anymore, but still held Sarah like she would disintegrate if he let her go. Perhaps he was the one falling apart… In all case, he had one arm around her waist and the other over her back, hooked on her shoulder.

- This was not supposed to be like this… - he remarked with eyes closed, still laying on her chest
- A lot of things are not how they’re supposed to be… - Sarah said absentmindedly

Mike lift his head to look at her, his fingers still grasping on her skin.

- I should be taking care of you…
- Why? - Sarah caressed his face - You needed this, didn’t you?
- I… - Mike stammered- You were tied up, I controlled your breathing…
- And yet… - Sarah said wiping the remains of tears in Mike’s face - You were the vulnerable one…

Mike pulled your face closer and planted a soft kiss on your lips. So soft it was almost like he didn’t wanted to disturb this soap bubble structured fantasy. Because it couldn’t be real, could it?

Could he be in Sarah’s arms again? Could he, after leaving, after working towards putting distance between you two, be here once again? Sarah in his lap, legs wrapped around his body, nails softly scraping his back.

Sarah could feel his neediness, his body relaxing under hers. Her cramping legs, her contracted abdomen muscles over the position she was bent. Yet, she would never let go first. He should let her go first. Of course, that might mean they would be here for the entire day. She didn’t care.

They weren’t. Mike finally felt whole, at least for now. He release his arms and she could finally move.

He took a long and very anticipated shower. Removing the clothes he wore at the airport felt like shedding one last layer of the separation imposed by himself in the past few years.

The rest of their afternoon was a run of the mill as you both could possibly wish. He wanted to stay in, and so you did. Having lunch at the outside part of the apartment. Catching up on somethings you both lost of each other’s life. Tiptoeing around sensible subjects but knowing damn well there was water to be threaded there.

In the afternoon, jet lag caught up with Mike. He laid down in the main room bed, asking Sarah to be there for him. It took no time and he was fast asleep.

Sarah left the bed, careful to not wake him up. Closing the door, she went downstairs.

Sitting in the couch, she started a FaceTime. Alex didn’t took long to answer.

- Hello, babe!
- Hey sweetie! How are you?
- Yeah - he smirked - Cut the crap Sarah…
- Yeah, you know I didn’t called just to chat - she laughed
- How are you? Is everything ok?
- I’m fine… - she stopped to consider- We’re fine
- So far, I’m interested in how are YOU feeling… - his voice was stern, and she could feel the root of the sternness was not you
- Are you mad at him? - She asked, actual concern in her voice
- I’m… - Alex thought for a moment - I have to think. I have to see him, and we need to talk
- I understand… - it made sense, it wasn’t something to treat lightly - If it makes you feel any better, I slapped him a few times…
- Good… - Alex laughed a little. - But we both know that it was no punishment for him

You both chuckled.

- Did you got something information out of him? - Alex let out some concern in his voice, something he was fighting to conceal
- Are we talking about the same Mike?

Both laugh again. Sarah turned her eyes up, trying to gauge if Mike was still asleep.
- Are you mad at me? - she asked sheepishly
- Never! - his eyes lit - No way I’m mad at you!- he smiled - I miss you, you know?

Sarah smiled with warmth

- I wish you were here… - She answered
- Soon I’ll be back… - Alex’s eyes trailed - Tell him that we’ll talk when I’m back.
- Ok… - Sarah said - He has been trying to contact you? - Alex nodded. - Had you answered?

***

- Why haven’t he answered me?

Mike’s body almost weightless floated in the water. Your feet hooked on each other supporting his back

- He needs some time - You caressed Mike’s wet hair - Just, give him that… Soon everything will be fine…

Mike’s fingers ran up and down Sarah’s calves, placed one on each side of him. He seemed lost in thought. His and Alex’s relationship, was always one more of a strong friendship. So the mourning of losing him in his life was felt differently than the lost of Sarah. Not to be confused with being less important or devastating the sensation of having his friend to refuse to talk to him.

At least, he had Sarah on his side. She would intercede between them… Right?

Mike laid his head back. Feeling the fresh water in his scalp. Sarah bent herself over him, and manage to kiss his wet lips.

- Hmm… - Mike murmured - I remembered something
- What? - you adjusted your posture

Mike lowered himself under water, leaving Sarah watching the surface as he disappeared in a cloud of bubbles, only to reappear this time facing her. He positioned himself in a position he came out of the water lifting her thighs with his shoulders.

Sarah lost her balance with his movement toppling back, leaned on her elbows.

- What the hell, Mike! - She laughed
- I guess- Mike wiped the water of his face and pushed his hair back - I own you something, don’t I?
- Do you? - her feet hooked on each other behind him, pressing his neck between her thighs - then show me what it is…

Mike smiled, he pressed his fingers down her thighs, separating them to give him space. He turned his face to the side kissing her soft skin.

Sarah, that up to this point was eagerly observing his moves, tossed her head back and closed her eyes. Just enjoying the feeling of Mike between her legs.

He was awaiting for this moment of her distraction. Mike dragged his stubbles on her skin and pressed his teeth down.

Sarah gasped, before she could emit any more sound, that she definitely wanted to, Mike interjected

- No screaming… - a sly smile in his face - It’s too early, you will wake the neighbors…
- Fuck the neighbors… - Sarah breathed out
- No… - he chuckled- Not the neighbors…

His lips dragged slowly up through your legs, in direction where your thighs meet. The air was punched back in her lungs when his tongue slowly dragged over her most sensitive nerves endings. At the same time the sensation was too much, and Sarah grabbed his hair trying to push him away, her thighs clamped on his head preventing him to leave.

Not that he was trying to. Her taste mixed with chlorine water, he wished he was tasting just her, nothing else, from now on. Nothing else but her.

Mike pulled her closer to the border, and sinked two fingers into her warmth. His fingers curled in direction of her pubic bone.

- Oh G… - Sarah pulled his hair harder. This time definitely not pushing him away.
- Shhh.. - He emerged just enough to taunt her
- I don’t care… - she whispered lowly making him smile, with her lips back on her.

Her moaning increased and became more strangled the more he increased the pace on his fingers. His tongue keeping the painfully slow and steady movement since the beginning. Sarah hips moved, urging him to more friction. But Mike kept her steady. Delaying her orgasm as much as he could.

- Please… - She cried out so low
- What… - he said, scratching his stubbles on her inner thighs. - tell me…
- Please, Mike… - Sarah’s back arched trying everything she could for more friction

Still half smiling he removed his finger, losing no time in dipping them through her lips. She sucked the eagerly, while the thumb in his other had circled tight circles in her clit. Increasing bit by bit the pressure.

- Bite down… - He said, and she did.

Sarah sunk her teeth in Mike’s fingers while her tongue tasted herself in him. She felt like he was twisting a rope deep into her core, to an impossible tightness… Until something snapped. Her body fell back from being arched, back flat in the damp floor.

She let go of his fingers and let out a drawn out moan along with the first rays of the day. Like the sun rose from her own orgasm. Mike let go of the breath he was keeping bottled up until he could watch her come.

He watched her chest moving up and down as she came back from her high, and like there was any doubt before… He knew he was hooked back into her life. This time he would claw his place back and not let go…

He just had to win Alex back as well…

Notes:

We’re back!!

I confess I’m having difficulties in disconnecting from La Bussola and diving back into this one. But I’m not giving up! And it was a lot of work to put on that one to just shut off like this.

But we are SO BACK!

Chapter 3: You and me and him makes three

Summary:

Sarah had less time to prepare than she expected.

Mike and Alex had an agreement she wasn’t aware.

(At some point, a song will play and the lyrics have meaning to the moment, The song is Take me to the river from Talking Heads. 1978 version)

Sarah was working in the second floor’s office. A small room turned home office to her and whenever Alex worked home. Their previous house was smaller, but also had an office.

The day she felt Mike would be in their life forever, was the day he set up a small mixing station at the corner of that office. A computer, good headsets, too much physical media in two shelves besides the computer.

Two months after he left, they shipped the whole thing. Boxed and tagged by Mike himself. That was the day she said goodbye to her last hope of him coming back. To Sarah, as long as that was boxed in her office, he could come back any time.

Her current office was bigger, better organized. Had been planned by an architect to accommodate both their needs. Except one space. One particular empty corner near a window. She put a plant over there. The architect disagreed with that decision.

 

-I need to keep this space unoccupied

-Why?

-Because…

 

That’s was the space she was looking when she heard the key on the main door downstairs. Mike had left, he was meeting some old friends. Musicians are everywhere.

She wasn’t awaiting for him so soon, but here he was. She snapped out of her trance and focused back on her computer.

 

-I’m at the office! - She shouted out just to let him know she was home.

 

She heard the steps moving over the living room. To her it seemed like Mike was looking for something, pacing around the floor. Soon she heard the steps coming up the stairs.

Steps lighter than expected, approached the door and stopped.

-Were you expecting to catch me with someone else? - Sarah smiled, without turning

-As a matter of fact - a voice that didn’t belonged to Mike said - I did

She turned her chair, almost knocking the keyboard out of the desk. Alex stood by the door frame.

-Babe! - Sarah jumped from her chair into Alex’s arms. - I wasn’t expecting you in like two more days!

-I decided to come back earlier

-Because of…

-Because I wanted to make sure you were fine

-Right… - Sarah caressed his chest - You’re still pretending to be mad at him

-I… - Alex sighed- I have to see him. We need to talk

-I know, I know… - Sarah pulled him close and gave him a kiss - Do you want me to leave you guys alone? To have a boys talk?

He rolled his eyes and pulled Sarah closer to a proper kiss.

-I missed you, babe…

-Missed you too - Sarah replied smiling

Alex didn’t travel a lot for work. And a lot of times he did, Sarah could squeeze a way of going with him. This trip was an absolute outlier on their routine. And as destiny decided, this was the time that Mike decided to come back to their lives.

What if she wasn’t home. Would he give up? Since the beginning, their relationship seemed intertwined with near misses and slips of timing working out. Why would now be different? She felt a pang in her stomach thinking about that. Pushing this feeling to the back of her mind so she could be present and worry about another thing: Alex and Mike meeting again.

As soon as Mike left their home, Alex shut down about him. He avoided most of his calls, answered his messages with days of delay. Always monosyllabic

-Are you mad he left? - Sarah always asked

-I don’t think a lot about him these days… - And variations of that were his answers

Until she stopped asking and they moved along without talking about Mike. At least not out loud. At least not with each other.

Mike… That was just right now turning the set of spare keys and walking through the door.

-Sadie! The key actually work! - He said from downstairs- I thought was an elaborated way of kicking me out!

-That’s actually not a bad idea… - Alex murmured close to Sarah’s ear

She left and told him to stay put at the office door.

-I would never do that! - She said appearing from the top of the stairs. - I would toss your clothes from the window, calling you every name in the book.

-That’s definitely more like you! - he said

-How was lunch? - Sarah was still on top of the stairs while Mike walked into the living room

-Great… - He said - So many projects left behind… You know… Since I was here for the last time. I’m thinking on focusing on them now. Stay for a long time.

-That’s great… - Sarah started walking down the stairs and made a swift gesture to Alex show up - I think there’s someone else you should see…

-Today? - Mike sat on the couch, his back to the stairs- I think I already spent all my will to see other people for now…

-That’s a shame. - Alex said

Mike jumped up from his seat. His eyes wide like he was seeing a ghost.

-Lex… -

-Long time no see… - Alex arrived at the bottom of the stairs.

Sarah watched from afar. Tense, holding her breath. They looked resolute. Like they knew exactly the other next step. Sarah felt left out of some agreement they had she had no idea of.

-Alex, - Mike cleared his throat- I think we should talk, right?

-You’re right - Alex walked right past him

He followed to the outside and waited by the sliding door. Mike sighed, and walked directly to the patio. Sarah watched that unfold without understanding.

As soon as Mike stepped outside, she tried to follow. Only to be surprised by Alex reaction.

He shut the door in her face. Turning the lock, while looking into her eyes from the other side.

-What… - She mouthed to Alex

-Sorry, babe… - He said, the sound reaching her ears muffled through the glass - This is between me and him

-Open the door, please! - She said forcing the lock from her side.

Alex turned his back at her and walked toward the other man.

-So, - Mike said, not sure how to feel about the moment - Can I at least say that I missed you?

-You just did… - Alex said, a hint of smile on his lips.

-Do you think this is gonna take long? - Mike sighed, a mix of resignation and impatience

-That - Alex could not contain the smile - is entirely up to you

Sarah banged on the glass with her open hand

-Guys, what the hell! - they both looked at her on the other side of the glass - Open up! This is not funny!

-Fuck it… - Mike muttered- Let’s get this over with…

Alex smile died in his lips. In two large steps he conquered the distance between them both. In what seemed like a flash of light to Mike, Alex’s fist connected to his cheek bone.

 

***

 

Alex shut down his emotions in front of Sarah, the moment Mike was out the door. He missed Mike, of course he did. He missed a friendship the likes guys only allow themselves to have when they are kids.

A guy that knew his inner thoughts. They shared musical taste and experiences , cigars, travel plans… And of course, they shared the love for the same woman. Yes, Alex met her long before. But soon he learned that the fact that Mike came after, did not diminish his feelings towards her. In fact, it made them share a bond that he never felt possible.

When Mike decided to leave, he seemed decided. Loving and understanding someone, sometimes meant to let them make choices you don’t agree completely. Alex and Sarah made the tough decision of just letting him go. Not without suffering.

Alex decided to be there for Sarah, but he did kept in touch with Mike. Mainly emails. Still talking, still sharing ideas… But without sharing the love for Sarah… To Alex, it felt like cheating.

He was maintaining a sort of “relationship” with Mike, when he completely cut Sarah off. Aside from calls every now and then.

With the time, and the certainty that Mike would not come back, Sarah started to suffer more. She woke up at night, sneaked out of the bed. Alex could hear her trying to conceal her sniffles. She would seem more and more distant during the day, while her crying at night kept getting worse.

Alex started to resent Mike for leaving. Not as much for leaving him, but for how Sarah was feeling.

He planned his good bye. On an email, that sat written on his draft folder for days before he had the guts to hit send.

“Mike,

We can’t keep things like this.

I cannot keep a straight face having a conversation with you, and then move along to pick the pieces Sarah has been crumbling into after you left. It’s not fair.

Not fair with her. She deserves me here 100%. We both invited you into our lives. Is not fair to cut her off and keep feeding the  hope that you’re still here… That you’ll still come back.

I know. I’ve read your emails many times. Counting the times you said, maybe you were wrong, maybe leaving wasn’t for the best, maybe you’d come back. I can’t share that hope with Sarah. Would be cruel to feed this hope for her… But I keep forgetting is also cruel to me.

We deserve to move on. Please don’t write back… I rather to move on with the happy memories we have from our time together, than keep feeding this resentment I feel now while watching how Sarah is doing.

Please, live. Find whatever you went on to find. We both want you to be happy. Nothing short than that.

Things change, people change. And if you some day decide (FOR SURE this time) to come back… Know two things:

First: If we take you back, will be entirely Sarah’s decision. She deserves the control this time. I think you’ll agree on that.

Second: I’ll fucking punch you for how much you made her suffer.

Until maybe someday

A”

Alex pressed send. The heaviness of those words weighed on his chest. He was still catatonic looking at the inbox, when Mike’s name popped up.

“Can I fight back?”

Alex smirked and replied:

“Bring it”

 

***

 

-WHAT THE HELL!! - Sarah’s banging on the glass was desperate!

Mike’s hand went instantly to his face feeling the impact. He was not taken by surprise. He had this punch coming for years. Three years to be more precise. But if he remembered correctly, he didn’t need it to take it silently.

He lunged forward, his fist hitting Alex right on the corner of his mouth.

 

-You’re stronger than last time. - Mike said, feeling his eye swelling

-Thanks, - Alex said feeling the blood pouring with his fingertips, where the punch made his teeth cut his lip. - I’ve been working out - He smiled

-Do you have something more for me? - Mike straightened his posture

-You deserve it, don’t you think?

Mike nodded.

-I’m gonna break this fucking door!! - Sarah was forcing the lock without being able to budge it from the rail

-Just a moment, babe! - Alex answered looking at her

-We’re almost done! - Mike completed - Do it - he said to Alex

Alex pulled his arm back and delivered a direct punch to Mike’s chin. He fell to his knees. His ears buzzing a bit. He could only hear Sarah screaming faintly from the other side of the door.

Alex approached the other man up.

-Are you ok? - he pulled Mike’s chin up to see him. Examining the work he had done in his face, with concern and pride.

He nodded. With the help of Alex and holding himself up on a table near by, he finally could be on his feet. Still dizzy, still bend over to the front. Alex gave his all into this last punch.

Alex walked over to the door under the outraged look of Sarah.

 

-What the fuck was that? - Sarah slapped Alex’s chest as soon as he opened the door

-We had - He pulled her head closer and kissed her temple - things to solve.

-Are you hurt? - Concern showing on her voice

-Just a little… - His smile hurt with the busted lips

-Good! - Sarah slapped him again.

Alex looked back at Mike, finally standing.

-I’m gonna take a shower. Maybe we can go out today - Alex continued, bloody lips and a demeanor that suggested that happened every other day - celebrate our reunion…

-Lex… - He looked back. Mike was finally standing, a smug smile in his face - I fucked your wife…

Alex responded with his middle finger standing and an uninterested face. Prompting the same response from Mike.

-I forgot how terrible you both were together! - Sarah left Alex to go, moving to attend to Mike. - What the hell was that?

Mike held her face

-That - he gave her a peck on the lips - Was us getting to good terms.

 

***

Sarah spend the rest of the day, regularly looking at them both and sighing. Not a loving sigh of “I have my boys together”. But a sigh more pending to the side of “Those fucking idiots…”.

Specially when she walked into one of them icing his swollen face, just to storm off and find the other one doing the same in another room.

And here she was again. Slowly shaking her head, sitting in a high back cushioned chair. Looking at those two sitting side by side on the opposite side of her on the table. One with one eye just half open, the other with half bruised busted lip… Clinking glasses like they hadn’t done that to each other!

-Excuse me - Sarah called the waiter taking orders - I’ll have a whiskey, no ice.

-Wow… - Alex nodded

-Is she drinking now? - Mike was admired

-Today I deserve, don’t you think?

-Why? - Alex reclined in his chair, fully aware of why and how he was pushing Sarah’s buttons.

Sarah murmured something under her breath and Mike chuckled.

-We were supposed to be celebrating!

-We are celebrating! - Mike corrected

-And here I am - The waiter placed the drink in front of her - with two of the clumsiest boxers ever!

-Cut us some slack - Alex leaned over the table - We’re old!

-Speak for yourself… - Mike took his glass of wine to his smiling lips

-You’re 6 years older than me, what you talking about?

-Wanna take this outside? - Mike could barely hide his laughter

-No! - Sarah lift a finger, eyes wide in distress

Suddenly the music sounded familiar. The drums marking the tempo, the keyboard mellowing into the rhythm. The three of them were silent. Sarah’s lips curved slightly into a smile, her shoulders and body swaying side to side. She took a swig of whiskey and stood up, glass in hand.

Hips marking the same waves of the song, dragging her feet alternating. She was the only figure standing, dancing by herself under the poorly lit wine bar.

“Don’t know why, I love her like I do” 

Were the words of the song, and the thought of the two man, sipping their drink and the dancing view with her back turned to them.

“Think of all the things we could have had”

She twisted herself, eyes closed, but she could guess the expressions in their faces. She watched it many times. She could almost guess the thoughts in their heads. And just that put a smile in her lips, followed by the rim of her glass.

“Hug me, Squeeze me, Love me, tease me… Til I can’t take no more of it”

She half opened her eyes and faced them. Her tongue darting out and wetting her lips. Sarah could almost taste the alcohol in theirs.

“Take me to the river, dip me in the water”

Both had similar expressions, slightly parted lips. Eyes roaming her frame. She tossed her head back, downing the rest of her whiskey.

“Can you tell me? I’d love to stay”

Both men looked at each other.

-What do you think? - Alex just wanted confirmation of what he was already sure

-I think is time to take her home…

They both clinked their glasses in agreement.

Notes:

Guys, I’m so late to this update!! I hope everyone still around!

I had a trip, some procedures to be had and a lot of work.

I was really excited to write Alex into this dynamics. His relationship with Mike is very challenging to me. I hope you guys enjoy as much as I am!

The title of this chapter is a line from the song Waratorium from Tomahawk.

Chapter 4: My blank sheet of paper

Summary:

Mike, Alex and Sarah had more to catch up…

Sarah countdown the number with her eyes. The elevator coming down to get them. She could almost feel the heat of both pair of eyes on her. When the door finally opened, she caught a glimpse of them both through the mirror. Both had their eyes focused down on her behind.

She smirked and walked in, followed by both men. As soon as the door closed, Alex leaned his back on the wall and pulled Sarah closer.

- I missed you babe… - he kissed her lips softly

Mike’s palm laid on the wall, besides Alex’s head. Sarah felt his body pressing against her back. His face digging deep in the smell of her hair, lowering to her neck

- Aren’t you a cute couple…

He dragged his teeth on her neck, on the other side, Alex’s fingers traced up, burying into her hair.

- You know, - Sarah said absentmindedly- The elevator have cameras…

The three looked up to the corner where with the help of the mirror, the camera didn’t lose any corner inside the elevator.

- Oh C’mon… - Mike said lowering himself- can’t three friends have a chat on the elevator?

He lift himself up, dragging his hands on Sarah’s legs. When his hand reached her hip, he turned his hand between Sarah and Alex. Getting him by surprise, he turned his palm to the bulging front of Alex’s pants.

- Oh! - Alex smiled and tossed his head back onto the wall with his eyes closed- I wasn’t expecting that…
- Well - Sarah pushed her hip forward, sandwiching Mike’s hands between both of them - get used to

She got on her toe tips and kissed the column of Alex’s neck, when the ping of the elevator, signaling they arrived.

They left, still half entangled on each other. Not without Mike winking at the camera before the door closed.

Alex opened the door, while Mike pinned Sarah against the wall. Walking inside, he pulled Mike by his collared shirt. Sarah followed them laughing.

- Babe, - Alex pulled Sarah by the waist - why don’t you go to the bedroom and get ready

Sarah planted a soft kiss in his lips and went away. Stopping in the middle of the stairs looking down to both of them side by side.

- You two are not gonna fight, are you?
- No - Alex promised
Without taking his eyes out of her, Mike punched Alex’s arm. Sarah rolled her eyes and kept walking towards the room.

- Beer? - Alex said
- Sure

Alex got it from the fridge, and Mike followed him. Leaned against the kitchen counter, Alex passed him a bottle and both clinked the glass. Mike kept his eyes fixed in Alex. Approaching and cornering him against the counter.

- You know, - He lifted his hand and caressed the other’s face - You look hot with that busted lip

Alex gave a smirk with a hint of pain, and tried to shift his focus from his eyes. Mike was having none of that. With the neck of the bottle, he nudged Alex’s chin, forcing him to face him again.

- You’re not shy now, are you? - Mike was definitely having fun with him
- Fuck off, Mike… - Alex said softly with a sly smile
- I missed that smile, you know… - Mike came closer to him, pressing their hips together
- We’re not gonna wait for Sarah?
- It can be our secret… - Mike approached his face to Alex, until…
- Babies… - Sarah’s voice came from the second floor - I’m awaiting…

Both smiled to each other and left the kitchen. The door to the room was barely closed when they opened.

Sarah kneeled on the bed, wearing black lingerie.

- Stop - she said to both as soon as Mike closed the door - I wanna look at you both right there…

She framed them in her view between her index fingers and thumbs.

- Do we look good? - Mike asked smiling
- Would look perfect - She let her arms pend - If both idiots didn’t decided to beat each other earlier
- C’mon, babe… - Alex extended his hand, helping her out of the bed - We’re fine now…

He pulled her closer, kissing her neck. Mike approached Alex from behind, pulling Sarah’s face over his shoulder to kiss her. Mike’s hand rested on Sarah’s hips pulling her closer to Alex. And Alex closer to him.

- I wanna watch you both… - Mike said softly leaving Sarah’s lips
- Perv… - Alex muttered on smile he hid on Sarah’s neck
- Aren’t we all? - Sarah said

Mike pulled away, moving to the head of the bed, undoing his shirt buttons and removing his pants. Sarah did the same with Alex, stripping him down to his underwear, like Mike.

Alex conducted Sarah to lay back on the bed, across the length. Her head near the border. Mike accommodated himself against the pillows of the headboard. Alex kneeled on the bed, picking one of Sarah’s feet. He placed her ankle on his shoulder.

- You look - He kissed calf - So lovely from this angle…
- Can’t complain from my point of view as well… - Mike purred, his flat hand palming his growing erection
- Hmmm… My boys

Sarah was somewhere close to paradise in her mind. Both her lovers back in bed with her. It was new having Mike back. On the back of her head, like a dull ache… A nagging feeling… That it was too soon to be comfortable, too soon to be sure he was back for sure.

She pushed that feeling back, deep into her mind. Anchoring her thoughts on the feeling of Alex lips softly on her calf, and moving up her leg. Her head turned to the side, she let out a long dragging moan, when her eyes open and she saw Mike. His semi shut eyes, his lazy smile and his hips moving involuntary… just from watching.

A sharp pain, contorted her face in a silent scream when Alex bit her thigh. He was a biter, no denying that. Specially after days away from home. Her abs contracted and her shoulders lift from the bed.

- Are you good, babe? - Alex asked, a devilish smile in his lips.
- This is gonna leave a mark… - Sarah said, breathing out slowly to ease the pain
- Is that a complaint? - his hands moving closer to her panties

Sarah bit her lips and closed her eyes, waving her head negatively as an answer. Her back arched and a gasp could be heard in unison between her and Mike, when Alex’s fingers crossed the lace barrier of her lingerie

- Oh, babe… - Alex sounded desolated - You want it so bad, don’t you?
Sarah grunted and nodded. Alex upped the rhythm, getting her moans more desperate.

- Use your words, babe…
- Yes! - She answered loud
- Mike… - Alex called in a soothing voice, without stopping his fingers - Come here.

Mike approached on his knees.

- Open up - Alex said to Mike

Alex’s fingers left Sarah, only to find a new place into Mike’s mouth, that promptly locked his lips around, hollowing his cheeks and sucking.

- Good, huh? - Alex asked, Mike nodded slowly, his eyes rolling back

Sarah moaned. She was not sure why, were Alex fingers on her, was the view of them both interacting above her. She didn’t care.

Alex moved his fingers in and out over Mike’s tongue. He pulled out slowly, smearing his finger tips over his lips. Mike opened his eyes. He also felt like was in heaven. Tasting Sarah on Alex’s fingers. What else could he ask for?

Was exactly what he was thinking, when Alex pulled him closer by the back of his neck, and kissed him. The three of them, at some level, mixed in this kiss.

The kiss was… soft. It halted the whole flow they had going. Alex’s tongue crossed his lips, and Mike accepted gladly. Their heads moving slowly to better accommodate the other.

Mike took a deep breath, raising both his hands to Alex’s face. Their tongues caressing each other’s.

Alex pulled back, looking into Mike’s eyes.

- Wow… - was softly heard by both, and they turned their head to Sarah

She lifted her upper body, propped on her elbows. Her parted lips in a smile.

- Couldn’t the boys set aside their differences like this, - She gestured to both of them - instead of punching each other?
- No! - both answered in a similar entonation

Sarah rolled her eyes as she left her body fall back to the bed… If she wasn’t herself so turned on, she could have punched them right there.

Alex and Mike looked at each other, smiling. Almost telepathically, they each took a role.

Mike went to the floor, and kneeled close to her head. Alex moved his forearm under Sarah’s back.

- Hike up a bit, Sal…

She helped with her leg, and soon her head was pending from the edge of the bed. Watching Mike from upside down.

- Heyy, babe… - he said planting a quick peck in her smiling lips

She felt Alex’s breath on her stomach and took a deep, pleased breath. His lips trailing up her body. Mike’s hands cradled her face. One hand moving in to her neck, and further down. Grabbing a breast, while Alex nibbled on the other. Sarah giggled. She could barely focus her thought with both their hands on her.

Alex continued his way up, nibbling the side of her neck. 

- Babe… - His voice barely a whisper - I want you to look at me

Without any move from her, Mike supported her neck up. She was being made to look at him. His hand moved down her body and moved her lingerie to the side.

- I like looking at your face when I get into you…
Sarah intensified her grip on Alex’s shoulders. The three of them moaned at the same time. Her eyes closed tight, feeling him opening his way inside her body. Slowly, but without pause.

Mike didn’t eased the grip on the back of her neck, but softly left her head pend again from the edge of the bed.

Sarah’s eyes fighting to focus on Mike upside down. Her head moving side to side, waving on the rhythm Alex pushed through her body. Her lips moved, trying to find words through all the sensations.

- Are you trying to say something?- Sarah opened her mouth. Without any intention to left her speak, Mike ran two finger past her lips. His palm up, so the curve of his fingers, reached down on the way to her throat - See if that helps.

Sarah moaned in surprise, her lips readily closing around his fingers. Alex smiled and upped his rhythm. Mike moved his fingers around her mouth, gathering saliva. Mimicking Alex’s earlier gesture, he removed his fingers from her lips and dipped them in Alex’s. His satisfied moans brought a smile to Mike’s.

- Come… - Sarah, murmured- Come here…

Mike approached her face, his lips grazing hers softly. His tongue dragging around her lips teasingly.

Sarah tried to manage the differences in rhythm. Her hips bucking against Alex’s growingly impatient pace. While Mike kissed her lips as if she was to break. She lifted her head a bit forcing more contact from Mike, that finally locked his lips in hers. His tongue rubbed frantically in hers. One of his hands, moving her head to better fit his movements.

All of a sudden, for Sarah’s surprise, she felt a loud moan of Mike directly into her mouth. Not exactly of pleasure, but surprise. Mike pulled from her

- Alex bit my head!
- Your hair was all up my nose - Alex said with a smile partially boyish, partially lascivious
- You two… - Sarah moaned- Don’t… don’t stop…
Her hands travelled down Alex’s back, nails digging on his butt. He focused his attention on her. She was close. He kept his rhythm, the angle he was hitting inside of her. It was working for her, and it was for him too. Mike tried to move, left them to finish together and just watch, when the other hand of Sarah shot up in his direction looking for him.

- Stay…

He grabbed her hand, entwining his fingers on hers. She squeezed his hand at the same time she squeezed her legs around Alex’s torso. Her moaning growing as she approached. Alex could not hold any longer, he came first. His desperate breathing while he kept what was left of his focus to keep Sarah on her way to her release. Which did not took long after his. Her frame squirming under Alex, pulling his head close to hers in a kiss wanted during her climax.

Her moanings subsided while she rode down her high… That’s when she realized how strongly she held to Mike’s hand.

- Sorry… - She smiled
- Don’t be… - Mike touched her face softly

Alex’s head burried in the crook of her neck, his breath catching up from the effort.

- One more? - he said without lifting his head.
- Could you guys let me breath? - Sarah feigned annoyance with the suggestion
- No - Mike said already finding his spot on the bed.

The same position he held before, back against the pillows on the headboard. Alex climbed out of bed, his breath still catching up. He helped Sarah out of the bed. She removed her panties before Alex passed her hand to Mike.

He reached out to her waist helping her to straddle him.

- Are you ok? - Mike asked

Sarah answered grinding herself on Mike’s still covered crotch. He felt it in his whole body, his head slowly tilting back to the headboard.

- Are *you* ok? - She asked teasingly

He nodded with his head still tossed back. Sarah leaned forward, pulling out his dick from the underwear. Her hands softly stroking, he let out a gutural moan from deep in his chest.

- You’re going to kill him like this… - Alex caressed her face
- I don’t think he mind, do you?
- No… - Mike waved his head, his answer barely audible

Sarah lift her hips and placed Mike right at her entrance.

- Look at me, babe…

Mike looked at her as she lowered herself, swallowing him bit by bit into her soft, wet middle. His hands gripping her thighs. Sarah turned her face up, eyes closed, enjoying the strange familiarity of Mike after all this time. Her body molding around his, like many times before. And yet, it gave her chills since the first time.

She felt a tightening on her throat. Opening her eyes, Alex’s face hovered over her. His lips pressed against hers and she felt a smile spreading on her lips. One of his hands on her neck, putting pressure in her air ways. The other holding both her arms crossed on her back.

- How does it feels like this? - he asked, genuine concern on his voice
- Actually - She cleared her throat and he lose the grip a bit - It’s hurting my shoulder…
- How about now? - He asked after letting her adjust her arms in a better position, crossed over her wrists, that he held together with one hand
- Much better - She smiled, undulating her hips again, eliciting another moan from Mike
- Good…

Mike adjusted his position, grabbing her hips. His fingers digging in her skin, while she moaned into Alex’s mouth. His hips thrusting against and inside her. His strength increasing, so as his speed.

- Did you had enough, babe? - Alex asked teasingly. He held her by the neck, facing up, not much coherence came from her sloppy moans. - I think she did… - He launched a smug smile in Mike’s direction
- No she didn’t… - Mike grunted without giving up on his pace
- Too bad, babe… - Alex smiled back at her
- You fuc… - Was everything she mustered to say, before her second orgasm hit hard

Alex felt her body shaking, he breath rasping on her throat. He let go of her so she could feel this freely. Mike took her in his arms. Wrapping himself around her waist and using it as a leverage. She was still riding down her second wave, when Mike came. She felt him pulsing inside her, and his heavy, wet breathing against her neck. His movements became erratic before he finally stopped.

For a moment they stood there. Just breathing in each other’s arms. Alex gave them this moment. Only them entwined together. Didn’t took long, and Mike was helping her slid down to the bed on her back.

Sarah shook her head slowly. Her eyes blinking on the low light of the room. Her leg muscles sore and spasming.

- Sally, babe… - Alex approached her - Do you need anything?

In a husky low voice she replied

- Water…

***

Mike woke up from a dream that dissipated fast. His phone showed it was just a little past 2am.

Sarah had her back turned to him and facing an empty bed on the other side. He thought on pulling her closer and tried to get back to sleep. But the bed would still feel empty.

He went down the stairs, trying to make as little noise as possible. Still from the steps, he saw that Alex was outside, lounging in one of the lawn chair. A mug of something besides him.

Alex turned at him when he listen to the sliding door.

- Hey, didn’t mean to wake you up
- You didn’t - Mike sat himself on the chair beside him - Everything ok?
- Yeah - Alex made a dismissive gesture - Want some tea?
- Nah, I’m good.

Both sat in silence for a while. The air was cooler at this time, but still far warmer than Mike remembered. Alex was the first to break the silence.

- After a trip, I always lose some sleep - he sipped his tea - With the change of beds and everything. - Mike nodded, and couldn’t miss the smile in Alex’s lips - I thought fucking my wife with another guy would help, but here we are…

The phrase hanged between them for a few moments before both laughed. Both trying really hard not to make much noise and awake Sarah that was understandably sound asleep. Both took a moment to take back their bearings. When they finally stop laughing, Mike said:

- Maybe if I had punched you harder…

Both laughed again. Alex pinching the bridge of his nose trying to focus and stop. Took them a few deep breaths so they could finally be quiet.

- I’m serious now… - Mike said - Are you ok?
- Yeah… - He pondered - We still have things to talk, but…
- Do you wanna talk now? - Mike pushed
- God, no… - Alex waved his head - I wanna focus on going back to sleep. Besides, we have time to talk

Mike absentmindedly nodded.

- We do right?
- What? - Mike didn’t quite understood
- We do have time?
- Yes! - Mike smiled, he reached his hand and placed on top of Alex’s- We have all the time!

Both nodded. Without their knowledge, their absence was felt upstairs. Both turned back their heads to the door, when Sarah cleared her throat to make her presence known.

- Why did I went to bed with two guys, if I’m gonna wake up alone in the middle of the night?

She dragged them back to bed, holding each one by the hand. The three fell easily asleep. A confusion of legs and arms intertwined, that made sense in comforting them.

Notes:

Wow, this was a ride to write…

Chapter 5: Lying in bed, talking about nothing

Summary:

A soft morning after… And a first look into their past…

Sarah stirred softly awake. Her eyes opening to the realization that she was laid on Alex’s chest. His finger tips running softly over her arm. He was also awake, torso propped up by two pillows. His eyes halfway closed.

- Hey… - her voice a bit more than a whisper - How did you sleep?
- Hey, baby… - he nuzzled the top of her head - like a stone. What about you?
- So good… - she stretched her legs under the sheet - Have you been awake for long?

Before he mustered an answer, a loud bang came from down stairs. Both flinched, and a muffled cursing could be heard as well. That’s when Sarah realized that the other side of the bed have been empty.

- Maybe fifteen minutes- Alex said - The same time I’ve been hearing Mike tearing down our kitchen.
- Wow- She sat on the bed, adjusting her nightgown back on her body - We’re definitely back, right?

*** 5 years ago***

- You look, so handsome! - Sarah approached Alex from behind circling her arms around his waist - Are you so nice for me or for him?
- Babe - Alex chuckled - Do you even need to ask? Of course is for him… Ouch!

She sinked her teeth on his back when he answered. He turned his back and hugged her.

- Are you nervous? - she asked
- I’m excited… - Alex completed - And a bit nervous I admit it

Alex has been a long time fan of Zorn, and currently, his company came across the opportunity to work with him. He was invited to watch the show so they could talk after and start their partnership with the right foot. Sarah was tagging along for moral support.

It was presentation with long time collaborators, and Zorn always seemed great person by what Sarah heard. Alex and Sarah would go, watch the show as regulars and after meeting the crew on the backstage. That was the plan.

And it went perfect! Alex was so excited, his eyes bright. He rubbed his hands together in anticipation through out the show. Sarah watched him with admiration. He was reaping the the fruits of his work, and she could not be more proud.

The collaborators on the show were awesome as well. A few familiar faces. No one Sarah knew personally, but some great talents. Most of the songs were solemnly instrumental, but there was one singer part of the arrangement. He imprinted his personality on the songs and had a melodious beautiful voice… When he wasn’t screaming and acting more like a distorted guitar than a vocalist. Wasn’t bad, not at all. But it was an acquired taste.

Alex and Sarah had passes that guaranteed them access to the backstage. And they were going in that direction when Sarah squeezed Alex’s sweaty hand.

- Do you rather to go alone or do you want me around for moral support?
- Well… - Alex pondered - Zorn wants to meet you. So I want to introduce you two.
- Aw, that’s sweet! - She said in a fawning voice
- But after that, I think I’ll rather be alone if that’s ok with you. - Sarah nodded, while Alex continued - I want to impress Zorn, I don’t want to have to impress you both
- Don’t worry sweetheart- Sarah leaned over his arm - I already know what a freaking nerd you are!

Both showed their passes to the surprisingly nice tall guy by the entrance of the hallway to the back of the stage. As they approached the movement, the sound increased and got more chaotic.

So many people talking. Alex squeezed Sarah’s hand one hard time when he finally saw.

- There’s the man! - Alex said shaking vigorously Zorn’s hand

Both gave a half hug, when Alex made the introductions.

- This is my wife, Sarah!
- Hello, sweetheart! - He approached to give her two kisses - I hope you enjoyed your time here
- Are you kidding? - Sarah said - It was amazing! I loved it!
- I feel so happy - Zorn bowed his head, with both hands over his heart. He was such a gentleman, just as Alex told.
- Now you two excuse me - you said reaching your hands to the flowers he still had in his arms - Do you want me to take those for you?
- Aren’t you adorable? Thank you so much

Sarah left with the flowers on her arms. They were indeed very beautiful. Her eyes were busy admiring the very particular mix, when she bumped, flowers first, into someone.

- I am so sorry! - She said still surprised
- That’s ok - His hand went to her arm - are you ok?
- Yeah - You looked up at his face… the distorted-guitar-voice-guy - Not sure about the flowers, though
- They’ll live better than with Zorn taking care of them. Here - He reached for the flowers taking them from her

He walked straight to a refreshments table, a vase with water expected the flowers.

- That’s great! - She looked around - I hope whoever gave him those didn’t saw us partially destroying them
- Well… - He reached among the flowers and picked a card, handing it to her
- “You did it again, you Old Fucker! - M” - Sarah read it confused, looking at his face looking for an explanation
- I’m Mike - He reached his hand to her
- Oh - she laughed - I’m Sarah, Hi! - and the sudden realization - Of course! You’re Mike, Mike… right!
- I hope that’s a good thing… - He smiled pouring a glass of wine from the table to her
- Yeah, I mean, I don’t know… Is it?
- What? - He gave you the glass and started pouring him one
- Is it good to be Mike Patton?
- Wow… - he sipped the wine - That’s a very philosophical question to answer sober
- Ok, start drinking than… - she clinked glasses with him

Sarah and Mike walked away from the table to the other side of the room. Unbeknownst to Mike, but slightly perceived by Sarah, Alex’s eyes followed them over a beer.

- So, what are you doing here?
- What? Can’t I enjoy some weird music? - Sarah smiled
- Well, sure you can! - Mike agreed - But I mean, what are you doing back here?
- Aha… - Sarah sipped the wine, her eyes softly meeting Alex’s across the room - I have my contacts
Mike followed her gaze, falling on Alex, that was laughing with Zorn.

- You’re here with him? - Sarah nodded - Zorn told me about him, they gonna produce together right?
- Exactly - Her smile spreading as Mike connected the dots
- Is he a cool guy?
- What? - the question caught her by surprise
- Zorn told me about the project. Invited me, actually
- Really? - This was getting interesting…
- Yeah… - Mike pondered, swirling the rest pf the wine on the glass, before finishing the glass - So, is he a cool guy?
- Well… - Sarah turned completely to him - He’s talented and hard working, he has an incredible respect for Zorn’s work… So he’s gonna be 120% locked in on this. - Mike nodded looking from Sarah to Alex - But other than that… - She shrugged, and finished her glass - Well, you can’t ask a wife to depose against her husband…
- Wait… - His eyes locked on hers - What?

She laughed. A sound that automatically crawled it’s way into the depths of Mike’s brain. Like a sleeper agent, Alex perked up and looked in their direction.
- You should see your face! - She said
- Are you kidding me? - He said moving his position to be in the line of sight between Alex and her
- No, I’m not… - Her infectious smile hypnotizing Mike
- Damn, woman… Why didn’t you said before?

She laughed again, amused by his panic.

- I feel like I should start over… - He reached his hand to her - Hi, I’m Mike! And I’m definitely not hitting on a married woman
- Hi! - She shook his hand - I’m Sarah… And I kinda wish you were…
- What…?

Mike felt a skinny hand weight on his shoulder, followed by a familiar voice.

- Mike! - Zorn said excitedly, while Mike turned to him- I’ve seen you met Sarah. I want you to meet someone.
- Hey, man! - The guy extended his hand - I’m Alex!

***

The small group found it self in a bar for drinks. Sharing a table, Mike wondered how he did not caught up with Sarah and Alex being a couple. They were cute together. Hands constantly brushing each other’s, his hand squeezing her shoulder, her fingers scratching his scalp from the back of his head… This last one gave Mike goosebumps. He could almost feel it in him when Sarah switched her gaze from Alex to him.

He felt it so much, he stood up up and disappeared into the bathroom. Splashing cold water in his face. Which didn’t mattered much, when he left and found Sarah at the balcon of the bar, a glass of wine in her hand. She eyed a whiskey glass beside her as soon as she saw Mike.

- Are you ok? - she asked, turning to the counter, as he took a swig of the glass - You seem nervous
- Nah… - He dismissed, not being the least convincing - Why… - He took another swig - Why did you said that?
- At the table? - Sarah asked confused
- Back at the show - he face the same direction as her - You wish I was hitting on you…
- Ah, well… - She shrugged- I did!
- But… - his face seemed lost - you two look happy, and… - he finished the drink - He seems like a good guy
- First - Sarah lifted a finger - We are Really happy together - Mike was about to talk, when Sarah lifted a second finger and interrupted him - And second, he’s an amazing guy! Don’t question that
- I don’t get it… - Mike smiled

Sarah’s fingers brushed against Mike’s hand that was still gripping the empty glass. Mirroring a bit of the interaction she and Alex had at the table

- There’s more than one way to have a relationship…

Mike was about to say something when, Sarah gasped and giggled. Alex approached her from behind and squeezed her sides.

- Babe - Alex said - You’ll never guess - He pulled her closer by her waist - Zorn went to that Italian restaurant we like. Guess who was his waiter?
- No way! - She smiled - The same guy?
- Same guy. Same experience!
- I need to talk to Zorn! - Sarah went straight to the table

Alex took Sarah’s place at the counter. Lifting two fingers and pointing at Mike’s empty glass.

- So… - Alex cleared his throat- I think we need to talk
- We do? - Mike swallowed a lump in his throat.
- Yeah… - The bartender poured two whiskey doses in front of them - I talked to Zorn, and he said you were interested in our project. You’re thinking about joining?
- Ah! - Mike laughed nervously - Yeah, totally! Sounds like an awesome idea…
- Can’t wait to play with you - Alex clinked the glasses together

Mike nodded absentmindedly. The words he wanted to say appeared and disappeared in his mind before they could reach his lips.

- Sarah… - Was the only word he could mutter among his confused though process, almost inaudibly over the ambient sound.

It was enough for Alex’s comprehension. He hid his smile behind the glass sipping his whiskey. The amber liquid burned his lips. Almost as much as he imagined Sarah’s name burned on Mike’s.

- Sal… - Alex repeated - She’s something isn’t she?
- Definitely something… - Mike said absentmindedly - How… - he kept trying to put into words - Do you…
- You know… - Alex placed a hand on his shoulder giving a light squeeze, mirroring his interaction with Sarah at the table - Don’t over think things. Let’s have fun, work together… See how that feels. Ok?

Mike caught himself actually giving this advice a though. What was going on with him? What exactly were those two people proposing? Why the hell was he considering?

Without an answer to any of those questions, Mike followed Alex to the table. As soon as they stepped on the outside, Sarah looked at them both, mid laughter. Her happy, easygoing smile turned lustful for a split second. Like she let slip a mask, just for the two of them. For the first time, Mike and Alex would exchange a glance after witnessing this transformation. Like they knew something that was shared just among them.

***

For the coming week and a half, they’ve been inseparable.

Alex, Mike and John started working in their project together. Maximizing their time in Brazil before the next leg of travel for concerts. Which meant they were constantly working together, in rented studios, partners offices, or even in Alex’s office at home.

Which also meant, they were constantly having dinner together. The four of them more than not. But every now and then, Zorn’s age caught up with him and he had to retire to his hotel. Which left Mike to share a table with Alex and Sarah.

He grew to look forward to those moments. With a light feeling in the pit of his stomach, and a nagging voice in the back of his head that insisted on asking himself “what the hell are you doing?”.

The subject usually revolved around traveling and, specially, food. Subjects the three of them found always themselves drawn to.

- So, what are you thinking of Brasil so far? - Alex asked
- It’s great! - he said after a sip of wine - loving the weather. I have been here before, but never such a long stretch at once
- Have you considered spending more time? - Sarah asked, with a hint of a smile
- Definitely… - Mike replied faster than he intended to - I mean… It’s a lovely place. - without knowing how to proceed he changed the subject- How long have you been together?
- Almost 10 years… - Alex said looking dreamingly at Sarah - Can you believe it’s been this much time?
- It seems like a blink… - She answered

Under the table, her legs were crossed with an ankle over the knee. Alex reached with his hand, feeling the straps of her sandle, drawing circles in her calf.

- And how long have you been… - Mike cleared his throat - Well…

They erupted in laughter. Mike’s inability to explain himself was funny even to him.

- Like we are? - Alex suggested
- It’s a nice way of putting it - Mike agreed
- Since the beginning. - Sarah shrugged her shoulders - It just worked for us
- Interesting, and… - Alex and Sarah exchanged looks, they knew this behavior, the curiosity, the questioning - Do you guys… - Mike scratched his head - I mean…
- Mike, - Sarah reached her hand over his on the table - You don’t have to be so nervous, we are just having dinner, we’re not interviewing you

Mike and Alex chuckled. Alex knew better than anyone that Sarah had a way of calming a nervous person. And if that wasn’t Mike right now…

- I know, I know… - He said finishing his glass - But you said…
- I know I did… - She cut him - But, you see… - she squeezed his hand - We like your company. We really do, right? - She said so that Alex could agree with her
- I don’t know, I think he’s a bit annoying… - Alex said with a smirk before finishing his glass
- Oh, shush… - Sarah rolled her eyes - I mean, if your uncomfortable, we can forget everything we said… About anything.

Mike pulled his hand from under hers and signed to the waiter to fill their glasses again. She slowly pulled her hand back, thinking she understood his gesture. A soft understanding smile on her face.

While the waiter filled both glasses, Mike’s hand landed softly on her knee under the table. Their eyes met.

- I don’t wanna forget…
- Fine then… - she said with a smile

She pushed her still full glass of wine to the center of the table. Where each guy clinked at the same time with their own glasses.

Mike didn’t knew yet… Well, no one at that table knew the depths of what they started. But they were all in…

*** Now a days***

- Mike… - Sarah called while going down the stairs followed by Alex - Do you need time before you put the kitchen back together?
- Ah, c’mon… - I just dropped a pan… And a spatula - he said the last part under his breath - I wanted to make breakfast for you guys
- Like the good old days - Alex said smiling

They set the table outside, the day was cloudy, but still warm. Enjoying their breakfast. Making fun of each other, and laughing… Like a days hasn’t passed since the last time.

Notes:

Here we are again guys!!

I still have so much more of those three to come… If everyone’s in for the ride, LETS FUCKING GO!