A New Path to Walk: Chapters 4 and 5

After polishing off a pizza at John's Best the two walked outside again and got on Chris's motorcycle.  Jake hadn't ridden on a Harley for a long time so he ended up holding onto Chris by grabbing hold of his black leather jacket for dear life. "Chris aren't we going too fast?"1

This earned him a chuckle from his friend. "Jake I think you're being a bit paranoid, I'm going at the speed I always do. Just relax, we're almost at the studio anyway." Sure enough ten minutes later they were parked in the studio parking lot, much to Jake's relief.2

Chris watched Jake get down from the bike, and he noticed that he seemed to stagger slightly as if dizzy. "Are you okay?" This he inquired with concern in his tone and a slight frown upon his face.3

"I'll be alright it's just been awhile since I've ridden on a motorcycle. Let's go."4

When they both entered the studio, Jake glanced around and suddenly he began to grin. Crossing over to Jimmy who was kissing a young woman with raven hair much like his own, he cleared his throat speaking teasingly. "Excuse me but are we teaching people how to dance or make out?"5

Vicky Evans pulled away from Jimmy rolling her eyes with a slight chuckle emitting from her. "Good Morning Jake." Grinning she turned to Chris. "Hey Chris."6

Eyes sparkling he answered. "Why good morning Vicky, you look lovely as ever."7

Jimmy looked over at Jake. "How you doing Jake?"8

"I've been better Jimmy, thanks."9

Vicky put a hand on her hip laughing softly. "Charmer! But we all know that I am not your type Chris."10

"Aye and we all know that Jimmy wouldn't like it if I was."11

Jimmy at this moment turned to the two of them looking rather confused and clueless. "Huh?"12

"I'm more worried about you stealing Jimmy out from under my nose with that charm of yours!"13

Chris laughed rather devilishly. "Hmm I'd be worried too were I you, Jimmy being the gorgeous man that he is."14

"Why thank you Chris!" Jimmy looked rather amused by the whole conversation, and ran a hand through his short hair, which he had dyed white with black streaks in it.15

Jake by now was doubled up in silent laughter, bracing himself against the wall to keep himself from falling over. Chris was in a dangerously playful mood today.16

Vicky pretended to look concerned though her eyes glittered with mirth. "Hmm maybe I should be a bit worried."17

"I think I can ease your fears a bit Vicky!" He winked which caused Jake to focus his full attention on him. Just what did Chris have up his sleeve?18

Chris moved over to Jimmy slow and cat-like, grabbing him by the chin and studying him for a moment. He kissed Jimmy fiercely which caused Liz and Rachel, the other couple in the studio to wolf whistle. After he pulled away he smirked. "Sure you're straight Jimmy?"19

Everyone in the studio stood open mouthed and surprised as Jimmy just grinned, eyes gleaming with laughter. "I'm sure Chris."20

Jake was threatening to double over again by this point, and mentally made a memo to applaud Chris over this later, because it was just brilliant.21

"Pity, I guess I'll just have to put my fantasy aside." From his tone you could tell he was having a hard time keeping a straight face, as Vicky's eyes widened about two sizes bigger.22

Chris gave her the 'I'm joking look' that only Vicky would understand and for a split second looked over at Jake, and then looked back at Jimmy. "But if you realize differently.." Trailing off he walked toward Jake again who was nearly collapsed on the floor in a helpless fit of laughter.23

"I know just who to call!" Jimmy chuckled as he said this and promptly went over and kissed Vicky.24

Jack and Silvia, who were twin siblings, instantly followed Chris. "Hey are you dancing with us today Chris?"25

"I think I am, if Jake doesn't choke to death on the floor from laughter!" Reaching a strong arm down he hauled Jake to his feet.26

"Chris that was brilliant," he wheezed. "Did you see my sister's face?"27

Vicky flounced over. "Alright, Alright, it was a good joke, but I think it's time we got to work here people." Shooting a mischievous look in Chris's direction she said, "Chris you're up, I won't be teaching you today. Jake will."28

Chris nearly passed out as he heard her say those words, and his eyes widened considerably. "Are you sure? I mean Jake's pretty stressed, I don't want to add to it, considering I'm not the best of dancers." His voice cracked noticeably in the middle of the sentence and his tone sounded almost as if someone was strangling him. 'Oh god! It's all over, just shoot me now. she figured it out. AHHH!!!!'29

"Alright then." Jake crossed the room until he was at its center, he let out a whistle to get everyone's attention. "Alright I want Chris over here, next to me. Vicky you work with Jack and Silvia on my right, It came to my attention yesterday that some of their steps need to be improved. Jimmy you work with Liz and Rachel on my left. One thing before we start, if you just let the music move you, you'll do fine, don't over concentrate on the steps just dance your hearts out!"30

Vicky nodded in agreement and started the music as everyone took their proper places, thinking that maybe she should have a chat with Chris after this.31

Chris stood beside Jake, every nerve jangling with nervousness, butterflies wreaking havoc in his stomach. His heart was most likely pounding louder than the music and he was surprised no one else could hear.32

"Chris you okay?" Jake lifted one eyebrow in inquiry. His friend looked like a frightened little puppy at the moment, and that worried him immensely.33

"I'm fine Jake, just nervous about dancing in front of them that's all." 'Wow where did that quick response come from? I thought I was going to blurt out, oh just because I'm head over heels for you and we are going to be dancing in very close proximity of each other for a full hour! I'm doomed! Okay Chris you can do this, yeah right what am I saying?!'34

"Alright Chris, watch me first, then I will dance with you, and then you will dance the steps by yourself."35

'Oh yes I will most certainly watch you Jake, no worries there!' Chris gave himself a mental shake because of the route his thoughts were currently heading in. The next twenty minutes seemed to pass in a lifetime as he watched Jake dance. He had never seen anyone more amazing before in his life and it entranced him so much that he could barely stand it. But the next part was even more mind blowing, Jake danced with him, touching him slightly every once and awhile when he didn't have a step right and correcting him, with so much patience.36

Chris's blood burned in his veins at that slight contact and he had to struggle to control all he felt. But somehow it awakened something in him, suddenly the steps came easily to him, and he poured all his emotion and strength into the dance. He and Jake moved in an equal rhythm, that was so intense that everyone stopped what they were doing to watch.37

Vicky stood with her back against the wall, a smile across her face. She had been right to make them dance together, the chemistry between them was astounding, and they didn't seem to realize yet. A suspicion about that her brother was gay  had always been hiding in her mind, but she wasn't sure so she had never said anything. Something seemed to tell her however that something was going to happen that would change Jake's life forever.38

Finally, Jake stepped away from Chris and gave him the cue to do the steps again, this time by himself. What he saw caused many emotions to fly through him, and he watched in awe. Chris moved with such strength and power that no one could take their eyes off him. There was a serene grace about him as well that made one think he had been dancing for years. It caused Jake's heart to pound and a new feeling rose within him, one that he never thought he'd feel. It shook him to the core, scared him even, but only for a moment. Desire. A nervousness and confusion then replaced the fear. What did it mean? He had never felt attracted to anyone before, but seeing Chris dance awakened it within him.39

Seeing the confusion and fire in her brother's eyes, Vicky knew that Jake had come to a realization and a silent prayer she said in her mind, that it would not break him apart. But this was why it was no surprise that none of his relationships had worked, this was why he was so protective of Chris, a protectiveness that went beyond just friendly concern. She had always known that Chris had fallen for her brother, and she had hoped against all hope that Jake find the hidden secret within him, that was even kept from himself. But with their father around it was no wonder that he had never figured this out. But all she could do now was watch and wait, and be there for her brother if he needed her.40

(since this one is kind of short, I'll put Chapter 5 in here too)41

Everyone was silent for a moment once Chris came to a halt and then the room was filled with the sound of applause, loudest of all was Jake. Never had anyone applauded him for anything like this, and it filled him with warmth. Dancing like he had just now gave him a sense of freedom that had never been revealed to him, and it amazed him. A smile crossed his handsome face followed by a slight blush.42

Jake came over to Chris and embraced him. "Gods Chris, I have never seen anyone dance like that before, I felt almost as if I was in a dream watching you."43

His voice was choked with so many emotions that Chris couldn't distinguish just one. There was something in Jake's eyes however that made his heart start to pound again, his whole spirit filled with a vibrant hope. A chuckle emitted from him, his sapphire eyes shining brightly. "That felt so good!" He hugged Jake back before releasing him and Vicky made her way over to him.44

"That was stunning Chris!" A murmur of agreement could be heard throughout the entire room, before silence fell again. "May I have a word with you please?" There was an urgent tone to her voice as she asked this question of him.45

Worried by her tone, he replied softly and questioningly. "Certainly Vicky."46

Vicky shook her head slightly at the questions that were overtones in his voice, and walked out into the hall that led to the other rooms of the studio, waiting until he was outside before shutting the door behind him. "I made you both dance together on purpose, and I'm sorry if I made you a bit uncomfortable."47

"That's alright; you were just getting back at me that's all."48

Sighing she looked him in the eyes. "Actually that wasn't my only reason, I wanted to see if what I thought was right. You love him don't you?"49

"Yes Vicky, I do. Is it that obvious?" His eyes closed for a moment as he ran a hand through his hair.50

Vicky put a hand on one of his shoulders. "No, but I have always sensed it, it's in the way you look at him, the way you get angry because of the way my father treats him, in how you'd do anything for him. Chris I think you should tell him."51

Those words hit him like a brick to the head, and he staggered, his jaw dropping. "Vicky are you crazy? He's straight!"52

She grabbed hold of his arm to steady him. "You saw the look in his eyes just now, did you not? Take a chance Chris, you might be surprised at the outcome. You do wonders for him, and I think you're exactly what he needs right now."53

His brow furrowed as he thought. "I don't know Vicky, there was desire in his eyes but it was within the depths of all in the room, how can I know that he truly feels anything more than friendship towards me. Jake treats me like a brother, and it would tear my heart apart if he were to turn his back on me. I've been hurt too much already." Chris turned and started to head back inside, one hand on the doorknob, when Vicky said something that nearly made him hit the floor.54

"Jake isn't Ryan.." This she said with such a soft insistence that it made it even more of a shock.55

Shaking like a leaf Chris whirled, his eyes burning with the need for answers. "How do you know about Ryan?"56

"He's a friend of mine, I've known him for years. I went to Stamford for awhile when he was dealing with the pain of having to break up with you. It was a few days after Jake introduced me to you."57

Hurt blazed in his face. "He was dealing with the pain?! Does he even realize how much he hurt me?"58

"Yes he does, but what he didn't tell you was that he had a feeling that you both weren't meant to be, that there was someone out there that needed you to find them. Think on it Chris, don't just hide because you're afraid, your life will pass you by before your eyes if you live that way. And try to forgive Ryan, what he did was one of the hardest things he has ever had to do, but he did it because he cared."59

Swallowing, he closed his eyes again fighting back tears that were threatening to fall. When his eyes opened again they were full of understanding. "Tell him I forgive him, how is he?"60

"He's alright, hasn't found anyone yet but he's in college now, so he feels that he doesn't really have the time for a relationship at the moment."61

A smile appeared upon his face. "Thanks for telling me Vicky, it's good to know that he's following his dream."62

"No problem." She embraced him tightly before giving him a mock order. "Now get back in there!"63

"Yes Ma'am." He gave her a mock salute, which earned him a light smack on the shoulder, as he laughing, headed back inside.64

His laughter faded however when he saw who was in the room. Jake's father was standing in the doorway looking very irate.65

Shit! Chris thought this with a mental groan. Here we go.66

Jake rose from the chair he was sitting in, a grim expression on his face. "Hello father."67

"Don't you hello me Jake!" James Evans crossed the floor until he was standing directly in front of Jake, inches from his face. "What is going on with you?!"68

Jake, instead of taking a step back like he knew his father was hoping he do, stood his ground, refusing to be struck down in his own territory. "Nothing, what would make you think that?"69

"You know damn well what I'm talking about so quit playing the fool!" James's blonde hair moved into his eyes, and he brushed it away with an annoyed gesture.70

Jake only smiled. "Oh the fact I broke off the engagement with Lydia? I actually was pretty smart in that decision, and nothing you can say will convince me otherwise."71

At the horrified look on his father's face Jake stepped closer causing James to take a step back. Jake spoke before his father could say a word. "What is the matter with you father? Upset because you were cheated out of money you would have gotten from my marriage? Stop the doing things for my benefit bull shit, because that's all it is!"72

Chris could have cheered at this moment, his eyes glowing with a fierce pride that Jake was finally showing his father that he wouldn't just stand there and take what he had to say.73

"That's a lie!" This James roared, eyes narrowing and his expression emotionless, his attitude cold as rocks covered in snow.74

Jake only laughed hollowly, one eyebrow arching. "Oh it's a lie is it? Since when over the past years have you ever cared about how I felt or what I wanted?"75

Vicky stood beside her brother, glaring at her father. "Yes father! When have you ever given a damn? I'm interested in hearing what lie you'll spill out this time, to cover the fact that you're just an arrogant bastard."76

"Stay out of this young lady! This is between your brother and I!"77

"Then why pray tell are you shouting at me for all to hear father? If it's just between you and I?" Jake asked with an iron tone to his voice. "I think you just want the satisfaction of putting me down in front of my friends, but I guess you'll leave here disappointed, because you're not going to get it."78

The next thing Jake knew, his father had slammed him up against the wall. "I will not tolerate being talked to like that, and you had better learn that or else!"79

"Or you'll what?" This Jake hissed through clenched teeth, defiance glittering in his violet eyes.80

James raised a fist back only to have Chris leap forward and catch hold of it, one hand clamping down on James's shoulder, fingers digging into the flesh. "Strike him and you'll have to deal with me!" Everyone was watching in shock as he did this, because he looked very much like an alpha wolf protecting it's mate.81

"Let Jake go before I have you arrested, and I'll do it too make no mistake about that!" Vicky's voice held no mercy within it.82

James let Jake go, turning he grabbed hold of Chris's wrist and twisted it. "Let go of me."83

Chris instantly let go, his face contorting with pain a yelp flying from his lips, a second later he hit the floor as Jake's father shoved him roughly.84

"We'll talk more about this later Jake!" Shooting a venomous look at both his children he stalked out.85

Jake walked swiftly over to where Chris lay and knelt beside him. "Are you alright?" Anger and sorrow flashed in his eyes.86

"Yes..I'll be fine. Although it would give me great pleasure to knock that bastards teeth out!"87

Jake nodded as he helped him up. "I know, I'd like to as well." There was an angry agreement that circled through the room, because everyone respected Jake and Chris and to see anyone treat either of them like that enraged them immensely.88

"Let me see your wrist Chris," Jimmy said this looking rather concerned, his father was a doctor so he'd be able to tell if it was fractured or just sprained.89

Chris took his other hand off his wrist and let Jimmy examine it, wincing from the pain. "That hurt like hell!"90

"I'll bet," Rachel spoke up. "That happened to me once."91

Liz arched a brow and turned to look at her girlfriend. "When was this?"92

"When I was fourteen, I ran into a drunk guy and he made me an offer that I refused so he tried to force me. But he didn't get very far." Smiling wickedly she continued, "I doubt he'll touch a woman like that again, I scared the shit out of him."93

Jack came over to them, fists clenched at his sides, fuming with rage. "Jake, you should call the cops on him! That was assault right there."94

"Jack's right, what if he had punched you, and what if Chris has a broken wrist because of him?" Silvia stood by her brother's side.95

"He's lucky, it's not fractured nor is it sprained, it's just going to hurt for a few days." Jimmy let go of Chris's wrist. "They're right you should do something about all this Jake, he's getting dangerous."96

Sinking back into his chair, face in his hands, he sighed. "I know, but I don't want to cause even more trouble, father's got a lot of people on his side, he could win the case in an instant if I pressed charges for some of this."97

Vicky looked at him with affection. "Don't worry about it Jake, you've got enough on your plate. If he does anything else you let me know and I'll call the cops on him, then you don't take the blame for getting him arrested. You should go back to Chris's and get some rest."98

Pain constricted his heart as he saw the exhausted and defeated look in Jake's eyes, and it made him just want to hold him. Chris could never understand how anyone could treat a guy like Jake so badly, especially his own father, how someone could be so cruel. Quietly he walked over to Jake and put a gentle hand on his arm. "Come on Jake, you do look like you could use some sleep."99

Wearily, Jake nodded and stood his mind in a blur. His own father had almost punched him., his father may be a bastard at times but never did he think that James would ever hurt him physically. Had he gone too far? Doubt circled around him, Jake didn't think he had overstepped the boundary, his father had deserved it, and everyone here agreed. Still it hurt to know that his own father no longer cared; he was too wrapped up in himself. As he stepped out into the hall, one hand moved to wipe away the tears that were silently starting to fall.100

Chris moved to follow as Vicky called after him. "Take care of him Chris, he needs you." He nodded slowly and headed out the door.101