Title: Now Bleed For Me
Authors: kimberlite and Alex
Pairing: Curt/Brian, Curt/Arthur, Curt/Arthur/Brian
Rating: NC-17
Category: VG fantasy.
Archive: Please ask.
Disclaimer: These beautiful boys belong to Todd Haynes, not us.
Notes: This fic was inspired by the Entertainment Weekly picture of Christian Bale licking blood off his face. We were swooning over it and one thing led to another...
Feedback: Yes, please, to kimberlite@cox.net and splix71@yahoo.com

Now Bleed For Me

Brian lit another candle, the warm glow casting the hotel room into flickering shadow. Curt slipped his arms around Brian from behind, nuzzling at Brian's smooth, white neck. "Mm, you taste so good. I'm so fucking hot for you." Curt rolled his hips, grinding his aroused cock against Brian's luscious ass.

Playing music with Brian always made Curt want to fuck him. Tonight was no exception. Their show had been fantastic, the audience utterly enthralled with Brian, frenzied by the teasing and flirting between the two of them. The energy between them was unlike anything Curt had experienced before -- and he was the master of on-stage energy. He needed to bury himself in Brian, indulging in the unique passion that Brian offered willingly, and he took eagerly.

Brian turned in Curt's arms, fitting himself against Curt's firm body, revealing his own response. "God, Curt, you feel so good." Brian kissed Curt, his delicate mouth opening, tongue demanding Curt's surrender.

Curt's hands trailed up Brian's body until he held both sides of Brian's face. Pulling back, Curt growled, "I'm going to make you feel fantastic." Curt started stripping off Brian's glittery stage costume, wanting to feel Brian's soft, creamy skin.

Brian let Curt bare his upper body before tugging at Curt's much more subdued shirt. Both naked to the waist, they hugged, rubbing against each other, loving the feel of sweat and skin. Brian was about to drop onto his knees and get to work on Curt's pants when he remembered the small velvet box on the dresser. Stepping out of Curt's embrace, Brian glided over to the dresser. "Curt, I have something for you."

Biting back a curse at Brian's untimely departure, Curt finally processed Brian's words. Brightening at the unexpected prospect of a gift, Curt grinned. "For me?"

"Don't sound so surprised, though it's really for both of us." Brian returned to Curt, holding out the small present.

Excitement undiminished, Curt said, "It's just that I've never gotten many presents. Thanks." Curt opened the box to find a set of small silvery hoop earrings, elegant in their simplicity. "Oh, man, they're great."

Brian smiled at Curt's enthusiasm. "They're platinum. I thought we could each wear one, sort of a symbol of how we feel." Brian broke off before he said too much.

If possible, Curt's smile grew. "What a cool idea. It's perfect."

Brian picked up one of the earrings, brushing Curt's hair aside to get to his unadorned ear. Lightly holding Curt's earlobe, Brian carefully slid the metal into Curt's pierced lobe. "It looks stunning."

Caught up in the swirl of emotions, Curt took the other earring, intent on completing what now seemed like a ritual, a claiming. Brian's hand stopped his progress. "I don't have my ear pierced. I didn't want to spoil the surprise. But I do have an appointment tomorrow morning."

Curt rolled his eyes. "I can do it now."

Brian looked wary. "Are you sure?"

Seeing Brian's concern, Curt kissed his forehead, his nose, his lips. "Trust me."

Feeling his knees weaken, Brian nodded mutely, surrendering once again to Curt.

"Take off your clothes and sit on the bed. I'll be ready in a sec." Curt stripped off his platform boots and tight pants before rummaging through the bedside table. Triumphantly holding up a travel sewing kit, Curt took out a needle and then went into the bathroom for a wash cloth.

When he returned, Brian was naked, sitting quietly on the bed, a look of dread on his face. "I don't like needles."

Curt gave Brian a self-deprecating smile. "Trust me. I'm good with needles."

Feeling the pain behind the simple statement, Brian took a deep breath and nodded. "I do trust you, Curt."

"Good." Curt opened a bottle of whiskey, pouring some onto the wash cloth. "Here, hold this." Brian took the cloth, biting his lower lip. Picking up the second earring, Curt went over to one of the candles and held first the needle, then the earring post in the flame, sterilizing them. Curt sat next to Brian, handing the earring to him.

Seeing that Brian looked petrified, Curt leaned in to kiss him, purring, "It will only hurt for a moment. Once it's done, I'll make all the pain go away." Curt snaked his hand down to fondle Brian's wilted erection.

Torn between running from the room screaming in terror and collapsing into the wonderful sensations of Curt touching his cock, Brian resolved to be tough for Curt. Panting slightly, he whispered, "Do it."

Kissing Brian one last time, Curt removed his hand from Brian, quickly making sure that Brian still held the earring and the alcohol-saturated cloth. Tilting Brian's head to a better angle, Curt found enough light to see by. Not wanting to torment Brian by drawing out the anticipation of pain, Curt pinched the lobe and then stabbed the needle through the center of it.

Brian tensed at the sharp pain, biting his lip more firmly, trying not to cry out. Distantly he felt Curt take the earring from his fingers then another pain as Curt removed the needle and inserted the earring. Just when he thought the worst was over, Curt covered his throbbing earlobe with the wash cloth. Liquid fire shot through him at the touch and he hissed loudly.

Removing the cloth, Curt murmured, "That's it. You were so brave. It's over. It looks gorgeous."

Brian buried his face in Curt's chest, taking a deep breath, infusing himself with the familiar, ocean scent of Curt's skin.

Curt stuck the needle into the cloth and dropped them to the floor. Then he stroked Brian's hair and back reassuringly. When Brian sat up again, Curt was drawn to the dark drops of blood on Brian's shoulder. Kissing his way down Brian's jaw to his neck, Curt lapped at the blood, the bitter-salt taste exploding on his tongue. Sucking and nibbling on Brian's neck, Curt stroked Brian's cock, reawakening his arousal. Desperate for Brian, Curt said, "You're fucking incredible, Brian. I want to be in you now."

Happy to take the focus off the pain of his ear, Brian rolled over, crawling onto the center of the bed, displaying himself artfully on his hands and knees. "Come and get me."

Groaning, Curt got up, coating his cock with the lube he found on the bedside table. Brian looked so beautiful, so vulnerable, spread out waiting for Curt. Moving behind him, Curt ran one hand over the smooth curve of Brian's ass. The other touched Brian's anus, circling slick fingers around the outer rim. Brian bucked at the touch, whimpering and demanding, "Now -- just fuck me now."

Grasping Brian's hips, Curt pushed his thick cock against Brian, trying to go slow even though he wanted to slam in all at once. Feeling Brian open to him, Curt gave in, thrusting harder until he slipped fully, deeply inside.

Brian thrashed as Curt filled him, loving this form of pleasure-pain. "Yes, take me hard."

"Oh, fuck," Curt groaned, thrusting steadily harder into the slim body beneath him. Brian was making needy, whimpering noises that drove Curt to distraction. Draping himself over Brian's back so he could feel the slippery slide of their skin, Curt grunted as he pounded into Brian.

Brian pushed back, matching Curt thrust for thrust. "Touch me," Brian gasped, feeling so close but needing that added stimulation.

Curt fisted Brian's cock, jerking him quickly as they approached orgasm. Leaning down, Curt bit Brian's neck just hard enough to trigger Brian's release. Thrusting once more, Curt followed Brian into ecstasy.

They slept curled together, candlelight glinting off the earrings, a tangible symbol of their connection.

*****

A light appeared in the rainy skies above London.

It was a strange, ethereal, glowing disk. Most who saw it shook their heads and convinced themselves that they had not seen it, the way that rational people, and those who do not believe in the otherworldly, do.

Some who saw it were captivated by its sparkling beauty, and hastened to tell their friends of the vision that they had been privileged to witness. But they were laughed at and dismissed, for those who saw it and believed were dreamers, idlers, people who thrived on fantasy. Who would take a dreamer seriously?

Who, indeed?

*****

"You bring shame to this house. You bring shame to your mother and me. It's a filthy, shameful thing you're doing --"

Arthur swiped at the tears forming in his eyes before he stepped onto the bus. He couldn't take it anymore. He'd never been so humiliated -- ever -- but now he was old enough to leave. So he was going, leaving his family, his few friends, his meager possessions. He was vaulting headlong into the unknown.

Was he such a terrible person? Was it so wrong for him to feel the way he felt -- not just about boys, but about everything? Some nights he woke up frightened -- frightened that he'd never leave Manchester, frightened that the local toughs, his own brother among them, would thrash him if they found out the truth about him, frightened that he'd go crazy if he couldn't just be himself. Most days he felt as though his own skin could barely contain him. When he looked in the mirror, he wanted to see a graceful, beautiful man, the sort of man that Brian Slade was -- someone who did what he pleased and fuck you if you didn't like it. But what he saw was a skinny, awkward kid who had an irritating tendency to blush guiltily whenever his thoughts betrayed him.

And they betrayed him so often. He felt like he had a blinking "Fairy" sign above his head all the time.

"Shame..."

It didn't bother Brian Slade to be called a fairy, a shirt-lifter, a poof, or any of the thousands of nasty barbs that people flung at him. On the contrary, Brian seemed to love it.

Looking out the window, Arthur saw his mum hurrying around the corner. She watched as the bus pulled away, finally raising her hand goodbye. She had seen Arthur's misery, seen what made him separate from the other Manchester boys. But she couldn't defend him against his father's rage forever. Arthur looked at his mum's tired, anxious face through the dirty window glass of the bus and raised his hand. She'd given him a quick, furtive hug before he'd left, slipping him fifty quid. His dad had completely ignored him, and his brother was nowhere to be found, which had probably been a good thing for Arthur.

Arthur watched as his mother became smaller and smaller as the bus put more distance between them. Eventually he could not see her at all.

Leaning his head against the seat, Arthur felt like crying again. But there was another feeling growing in him, one of anticipation and excitement. He was going to London. London. He tasted the name on his lips. He would be free there -- free to start over. No one would know that he was an outcast, that he had few friends. And more importantly, no one would care. He had some money that he'd saved over a few years of careful scrimping. All he needed was a room and a job. And then...then he could be like Brian Slade. Bold. A risk-taker. Glamorous. Exciting. Oh, God, he wanted a pair of platform boots so badly he could taste it. He wanted to dye his hair, wear make-up, pierce his ear, flirt, tease, provoke.

Carefully he reached into his small bag and extracted the one picture he'd brought with him. It was a NME photograph, much handled, the cheap paper already yellowing, though it wasn't an old photo. It was a picture of Brian Slade -- kissing Curt Wild. He stared at it, even though he could have described every nuance, every line and shadow of the photograph with his eyes closed, he'd memorized it so completely. He felt the familiar blush, the quickening of his pulse, the frantic ticking inside his ears -- the hateful turmoil that he was dragged into every time he looked at the photograph. How many times had he wanted to crumple the picture, to tear it into a thousand pieces, and how many times had he jerked off, looking at the picture, in an agony of need and shame?

His mouth tightened. No more, he decided. No more shame. He wasn't going to be ashamed, wasn't going to hide his true self away any longer. He would transform himself from Manchester caterpillar to London butterfly. And fuck anybody who didn't like it. Smiling a little at his own daring, he settled back for the ride to London.

*****

Arthur had only been to London twice before -- both times with his parents. They'd done the usual touristy things, but hadn't gone to the places Arthur would have loved to visit -- the Rainbow Theatre, King's Cross, all the places that Brian Slade had popularized.

He wandered the streets in a daze, clutching his small satchel, painfully aware that he stuck out like a sore thumb. He'd managed to take the tube to Piccadily Circus. It had seemed like as good a place as any to begin his adventure -- the center of everything. Now as he wandered the streets, he cursed himself. It was a Wednesday night, the streets were crowded, and there were a few glitter kids here and there, but that was all. He should have tried to find a reasonably priced hotel. This was all too much for him.

The streets were brightly lit, and traffic zoomed by noisily. There were all sorts of people walking around -- drunks, crazies, teddy boys -- and Arthur was beginning to feel uncertain and a little afraid. Maybe he'd made a mistake.

There was a grinding, raucous noise coming from the open door of a pub. Arthur watched as a group of glam girls entered. Curious, Arthur made his way to the door, where a sign affixed to the wall proclaimed: THE LAST RESORT CLUB. Arthur hesitantly walked into the pub, attention immediately drawn to the stage. His eyes widened at the spectacle he saw.

*****

Arthur watched the stage in stunned silence. The four men were dressed up, sparkling and sexy, glittery creatures from a world far beyond Arthur's dingy room in Manchester. One of them spotted him and blew him a kiss. Despite his best efforts, Arthur blushed.

Determined to experience their world, Arthur went to the bar for a beer. This was, after all, what he'd come to London to find.

*****

It was well past closing time, but Arthur couldn't bring himself to leave. He sat facing the band over a table littered with empty glasses, beer bottles, and overflowing ashtrays, captivated by their mesmerizing presence. He listened to them talk, barely able to understand what it was they were saying, but thrilled nonetheless. He couldn't believe that they wanted to talk with him.

"I don't believe there's much of a future to speak of --"

"We're in a bit of a decadent spiral, aren't we?"

"Sinking fast."

"Big Brother, baby. All the way."

Decadent spiral? Fuzzy from the alcohol, Arthur tried to follow the conversation as it shifted quickly from one man to the next.

"Which is why were prefer impressions to ideas --"

"Situations to subjects --"

"Brief flights to sustained ones --"

"Exceptions to types --"

"And yourself?"

Startled that they had asked him a question, Arthur responded with his immediate concern. "Well I'm - I'm just looking for a room at the moment."

In unison, the Flaming Creatures smiled at the young man before them.

*****

Arthur woke up the next morning feeling disoriented and slow-witted. Sitting up and looking around, he discovered that he was in a small bedroom. Flashy clothes were draped over every conceivable surface, spilling from the closet in a riot of color. The make-up covered dresser had a large mirror hanging over it with pictures stuffed into the frame. Curious, Arthur got out of bed, blushing furiously when he realized that he was naked.

As much as he wanted to be a part of the scene, to explore his desires, this was all happening very fast. He remembered that, after they'd invited him to their flat, he'd learned the band's name was the Flaming Creatures. As beautiful and nice and exciting as they were, Arthur couldn't help his feelings. Although he hadn't wanted to admit it, he had come to London seeking Brian, and, he told himself, possibly Curt. He knew the possibility of actually ever finding them was slim, but he couldn't help the hunger he felt for them.

He couldn't believe the Creatures had invited him to stay with them. They'd said they needed someone to help them at gigs and around the flat, that he could stay with them for as long as he wanted. The scary feeling of being adrift in an unknown city had faded, alleviated by the acceptance of friends.

Looking at himself in the mirror, Arthur thought he looked paler than usual. His neck was slightly stiff, and when he touched it, his mind flashed back to last night after they had gotten to the flat. He had a vague memory of being touched by many gentle hands, of cool lips on his neck, a sharp pain, but it was unclear. While it was strange, it wasn't a bad feeling. In fact, he felt more alive and energized than he'd ever felt. He was ready to face this brave, new world.

Finding his clothes, Arthur dressed quickly.

*****

Over the next weeks, Arthur adapted to the city and the scene. Malcolm, Ray, Pearl and Billy were very helpful, showing him all the hot spots, letting him raid their wardrobe, delighting in Arthur's wide-eyed wonder.

Fairly quickly, Arthur confided to them his intense infatuation with Brian and Curt. The Creatures were very understanding, agreeing that Arthur had good taste, but recognizing the difficulties inherent in the situation.

Arthur was folding clothes in the front room of the small flat when Malcolm burst in excitedly.

"You're going to love me, Arthur!"

Arthur smiled. "I already do."

"Well, you're going to love me even more. I got us invited to a very special party this evening."

"Oh, really?" Arthur replied, a bit nervously. He was adapting as quickly as he could to the Creatures' rakishly impulsive lifestyle, but he was still a little uneasy at some of the crazy parties that they'd taken him to. He loved the dressing up, the music, and the occasional mushroom -- it seemed like everything that he'd come to London to find was within the Creatures' grasp. And he'd been propositioned so many times in the last few weeks. It was thrilling and embarrassing. He hadn't gone beyond a few awkward gropings though, even with the Creatures, who seemed eager to initiate him into a world of sensual pleasure. He wasn't sure why he resisted, really, after all, wasn't that why he'd come to London, too? "What sort of party?"

"Oh, nothing special, really," Malcolm said nonchalantly, though his eyes were dancing with impish delight. "But there are going to be a couple of very important guests there, and I just thought maybe you'd like to go."

"Who?" Arthur asked curiously.

"Curt Wild and Brian Slade, that's who."

Arthur sprang up, accidentally dumping a pile of clothing onto the floor. "Oh my God! Brian Slade? You're kidding me, Malcolm...aren't you?"

Malcolm laughed. "I'm serious. I just happened to bump into a couple of friends, and they just happened to mention that there was a party tonight...well, I pulled some strings, and we're all going," he crowed, pleased at Arthur's obvious delight.

Arthur stumbled over to the mirror. "Oh, gosh...what am I going to wear?"

"How about something from the floor, there?" Ray said teasingly, smiling as he came out of the kitchen.

Arthur smiled back, then frowned. "Tell me the truth, guys...do I look pale to you?"

Malcolm shrugged. "A little. Of course, I've just given you the shock of your life."

"I know. It's just that...well, ordinarily I'd be all red."

"You're not blushing anymore, Arthur. It must mean that you're losing all your inhibitions." Grinning, Malcolm sauntered past Ray and into the bedroom.

Arthur laughed, grabbing the pile of clothes off the floor, and chasing after Malcolm, Ray on his heels. Now what was he going to wear?

*****

"Oh, Curt, it's only for a few days, luv." Brian held a green jumpsuit against himself and looked in the mirror, considering.

Curt lay on the bed, staring up at the ceiling. "I think I'll go anyway."

"You can't. The minute you get in the air, you'll be in excruciating pain. Don't you remember what the doctor said? No flying, no loud music, no smoking."

"Oh, yeah, like I'm going to stop smoking because I have an ear infection," Curt snorted.

Brian set a pile of clothing on the bed and regarded Curt with exasperation. "You are so damn stubborn."

Curt smiled and caught Brian's hand, pulling him onto the bed amidst the jumble of clothing and make-up. Brian wrapped his arms around Curt and kissed him.

"You could always stay home," Curt said hopefully.

Brian shook his head. "I can't. Jerry pulled all sorts of strings to get Notre Dame for even one day. Oh Curt, don't be upset," Brian pleaded, seeing Curt's scowl. "It's four days at most. You don't want to watch me standing in front of hot lights and cameras anyway."

Curt grinned. "Sure I do."

"Oh, right," Brian grinned, nipping Curt's earlobe where the platinum hoop winked in the dim light of the bedroom.

"Hey, watch it. That's my bad ear," Curt growled.

With a final kiss, Brian released Curt's ear. "I don't want to go to this party," Brian murmured. "I'm leaving tomorrow morning, and I won't see you for days...let's not go."

"It'll just be for a bit," Curt assured him. "I told Ian that we'd show."

"Do we have to?" Brian complained.

Curt matched Brian's whining tone. "Yes, we have to. Anyway, you get to go to Paris tomorrow, and I'm stuck here in fucking London watching the rain, so quit your bitching."

Brian stuck his tongue out at Curt. Curt darted up and caught Brian's tongue in his teeth, laughing as Brian yelped.

"You bitch!" Brian exclaimed. "You're going to pay for that."

Curt rocked his hips against Brian's. "Oh yeah? How?"

"After the party," Brian crooned, "I'm going to make you suffer." He disentangled himself from Curt's arms and climbed off the bed.

"Why not now?"

Brian planted his hands on his hips. "Did you ever hear that joke -- what did the masochist say to the sadist?"

"Tell me. What did the masochist say to the sadist?"

"'Beat me.' What did the sadist say to the masochist?"

"What?"

"'No.'"

Curt frowned, then grinned, laughing loudly. Brian, pleased that he'd told a joke without fucking up the punch-line, smiled at Curt and continued to pack.

*****

"They're not coming," Arthur mourned.

"I swear, Arthur, you say that once more, and I'm absolutely going to brain you," snapped Pearl.

Arthur sat back on the couch and fidgeted with the black marabou boa that Malcolm had loaned him, letting his gaze sweep the room. It was packed, full of men and women dressed and painted like glittering birds of paradise, whose sole purpose in life seemed to be to out-dress and out-perform one another. To Arthur, though, it was still terribly exciting, even as he recognized how very superficial so many of these people were.

He listened to the conversations around him. There was a pattern to them, he realized, like the ballroom dancing lessons he'd been forced to endure as a kid. They began with a trilling greeting, loud enough for everyone in a five meter radius to hear. That was followed by gushing admiration for one's outfit, which led to an analysis of what other people were wearing. Then -- almost inevitably -- came a catty discussion of who was sleeping with whom. Arthur smiled as he listened, storing away bits of chatter to copy later, perhaps.

"Arthur."

"Yeah?"

"I'm going to get a beer. You want one?"

"Sure, Pearl. Thanks," Arthur replied, smiling. As Pearl wandered away, Arthur stretched his limbs, yawning. His frenetic energy of the past few weeks had been replaced, in the last couple of days, by tiredness. He supposed that his new, hectic, nocturnal lifestyle had finally caught up with him. It wasn't a bad feeling, though -- actually, it was rather pleasant. He yawned again, feeling drowsy and languorous.

He froze in mid-yawn as he caught sight of Brian Slade and Curt Wild.

Brian was even more beautiful than his pictures. He wore a tightly-fitted green jumpsuit tucked into glittering boots that were every color of the rainbow. His hair was magenta -- incredible -- and his face, oh, his face was simply the most gorgeous thing that Arthur had ever seen. Arthur could scarcely breathe, he was so captivated by the sight of his idol standing not five meters away.

Arthur's gaze flicked to Curt Wild briefly. He was definitely attractive, too, Arthur decided. Not as beautiful as Brian, of course, but there was something about him, the way he stood, his arm thrown around Brian's shoulders, casually possessive. And he wore a pair of super-tight snakeskin pants -- Jesus, Arthur thought, dazedly. Wow.

But Brian -- Brian was the really beautiful one. Brian Slade was the center of Arthur's world, not that the singer knew or cared.

The crowd surged around the pair, and Arthur had to stand up to get a glimpse of Brian again. Fortunately, Arthur was tall, and the platform boots he wore made him even taller, so he was able to see Brian easily. Brian was smiling, chatting, kissing cheeks and lips and being touched and kissed ardently, by men and women alike.

He felt a nudge in the ribs, and looked over to see Pearl, holding a bottle of beer.

"Here you go."

Arthur took the beer absently. "Thanks."

"I see that Brian Slade made it to the party," Pearl remarked.

"Yeah."

Malcolm sidled up to Arthur and slid an arm around his waist. "Look who's here," he said airily.

"I can't believe it," Arthur whispered.

Malcolm tugged at Arthur's leopard-print shirt and brushed a speck of dust from the black velvet trousers that Arthur wore. "You look great," Pearl said. "Knock him dead, Arthur."

Arthur was stunned. "What? I can't just go up and talk to him! Are you mental?"

"Oh, come on! Why did you come to the party if you weren't going to talk to him?"

"He'd never talk to me," Arthur said with sad certainty.

"Do you believe this?" Malcolm snorted, looking at Pearl. "We get him all tarted up, he's the hottest-looking guy here tonight --"

"Oh, sure," Arthur said.

"Fine, don't believe me. But tell me that you haven't been hit on at least three times this evening."

"Well..." Arthur grinned slyly. It had been five times, actually, but he'd politely declined all the invitations. Maybe he was just afraid of losing his virginity and too ashamed to admit it.

Pearl gave him a little shove. "Come on, mate, don't be daft. Just go talk to him."

"I've got to check my eyeliner first," Arthur said, a little desperately.

"Well then, go to the bloody loo, then get out here and work that magic," Pearl teased.

"Okay." Arthur stumbled to the loo, feeling dizzy. He opened the door and went in, closing out the bright chatter from the party. Heading for the mirror behind a row of sinks, Arthur froze as he caught sight of another man.

Curt Wild.

Arthur's heart started beating very rapidly as he realized he was alone with Curt Wild. The situation was so unexpected, that Arthur didn't know what to say, what to do. He felt the dizziness creep over him and gasped, trying to get more air into his lungs.

*****

When he heard the door open, Curt turned from the sink, lowering a damp paper towel from his neck. He really didn't feel very well. He should have listened to Brian and stayed in. Not that he would have gotten any more rest there, but it would have been quieter.

Seeing the dark-haired boy standing frozen just inside the door, obviously terrified to find himself alone with Curt Wild, Curt grinned. He looked at the kid, unconsciously projecting all the heat and raw sexual energy that always seemed to be banging around inside of him. "Hey."

If possible, the kid turned even paler. Curt dropped the towel and stepped closer to him, inexplicably drawn to the kid's ethereal beauty. "What's your name?" he asked gruffly.

"Arthur Stuart."

Curt heard the barest whisper before Arthur swayed alarmingly and began to crumble to the floor. Moving quickly, Curt caught Arthur, supporting him before he could fall. "Hey, Arthur. It's okay. Just try to breathe. I've got you," Curt crooned, trying to quiet his own quick breaths.

Wrapping his arms more firmly around Arthur, Curt maneuvered them back a few steps, leaning Arthur against the wall. "Come on Arthur, open your eyes for me." Curt worked one hand from around Arthur, gently pushing the hair off Arthur's pale face, stroking the baby-smooth skin. "Don't scare me like this, man." What was wrong? Arthur wasn't convulsing, but Curt had enough experience to know that not everyone who overdosed suffered the same symptoms.

Arthur's eyes fluttered open at the warm touch. When he realized that Curt was holding him against the wall, fingers tangling in his hair, Arthur whimpered and went completely boneless.

Even pressing his body tightly against Arthur's couldn't stop them from slipping downward. Curt abandoned his efforts and sank to the floor, cradling Arthur's body across his lap, supporting Arthur's head in the crook of his arm like a baby. Shit, Curt thought, how the hell do I get myself into these situations?

Arthur was still down for the count. Curt tried talking to him, tried rubbing his arm and his face, but the only response was an unconscious wiggle that rubbed Arthur's body against Curt's groin. Curt groaned as he felt his body responding to the stimulation. Not now, he thought irritably.

Curt slapped Arthur's face lightly. "Come on, kid, wake up." It didn't seem to be working. If anything, Arthur was snuggling into Curt's body, seemingly seeking contact, content to stay enveloped in his arms. Curt felt a rush of protectiveness for this delicate stranger.

Not wanting to leave Arthur alone to call for help, Curt continued stroking and talking to Arthur. Becoming more desperate, Curt leaned down and gently kissed Arthur's forehead. "Please, Arthur, don't do this to me." Curt couldn't stop himself from brushing his lips over Arthur's in a ghost-like kiss.

At the touch of lips on lips, Arthur stirred, opening his eyes in a daze. His tongue ran over his lips, capturing the faintest trace of something. "Curt..."

Grinning with relief, Curt whispered, "Just stay still. Did you take any drugs tonight?"

Seeing the concern on Curt's face, Arthur reached up, tracing his fingers over Curt's jaw, smoothing out the furrowed brow. "No, I'm okay."

Without thinking, Curt kissed Arthur's fingers. "Jesus, you scared the shit out of me, but I guess you just fainted."

"Mm, feels good." Arthur stretched, all sinuous and cat-like, and Curt was lost in the fluid grace of the boy in his arms.

When Arthur's hand snaked behind Curt's neck, drawing Curt's head down to him, Curt didn't think to resist. They kissed gently, tasting each other, exploring lips and tongue and teeth and the soft, moist tissue of their mouths.

The kiss was intoxicating. Curt was stunned by his sudden, almost painful arousal. Arthur broke off the kiss, nibbling down Curt's jaw, licking and sucking a wet trail to his neck. Curt felt Arthur's teeth scraping along his skin, interspersed with tiny bites, and arched into the rough caress, groaning his pleasure. For someone who looked as innocent as a virgin, Arthur was unerringly finding his buttons. Curt felt his thoughts scatter, his mind becoming a pulsing vortex of pleasure as his need grew.

A sharper pain pierced Curt's muddled thoughts and he felt Arthur sucking at his neck. Fuck, he thought he could come from this touch alone.

Unnoticed by the two tangled on the floor, the door opened.

"See, I told you he'd been gone too long." Malcolm's soft voice sounded unusually loud in the silent room.

Ray nodded to Billy and Pearl and they stepped over to Curt and Arthur. Pearl spoke softly to Arthur, "Let him go, luv. You're not quite ready yet to go all the way. That's right, lick the wound to close it. Now let him go." Arthur resisted for a moment before following Pearl's directions. "Good boy."

Pearl effortlessly lifted Arthur off the ground as Billy supported Curt, confused, befuddled but still in need.

Pearl and Ray escorted a passive Arthur out of the loo. Malcolm moved in front of Curt, licking his fingers and rubbing his saliva over Curt's bruised neck. Smiling at Billy, Malcolm chuckled. "They're always so adorable the first time. Arthur's almost ready." When he removed his fingers, the skin on Curt's neck was unmarred.

Billy helped Curt stand. As the cloud obscuring his mind lifted slightly, Curt focused on two of the Flaming Creatures, he didn't know which ones. "Arthur?"

"He wasn't feeling well and you helped him. We're very grateful. We'll take care of him now." Malcolm cupped Curt's cheek, speaking softly but firmly.

"I need to talk to him -- be sure he's okay."

"He needs to rest, as do you."

Billy pulled a small piece of paper from his pocket. "You can call him tomorrow and talk to him. Tonight, you need to sleep."

Curt took the paper, looking at the phone number before forcing it into his pocket. "Okay." "Good," Malcolm approved. "Now let's get you to Brian and he'll take you home."

*****

By the time the Creatures got Arthur home, he was feeling more alert. Sitting on the couch, Malcolm on his right, Billy on his left, and Ray and Pearl perched before him on the coffee table, Arthur wondered why they were so intensely focused on him. He didn't remember leaving the party. In fact, he didn't remember much of anything after going to check his eyeliner. Alarmed, Arthur asked, "What happened?"

Malcolm picked up Arthur's hand, holding it between both of his. "You met Curt Wild."

At the mention of Curt's name, Arthur felt a deep stirring of interest. His body remembered Curt, had imprinted itself with Curt's essence. "Curt...yes. I remember feeling really dizzy. I think I fainted and he held me."

Billy took Arthur's other hand. "Then what happened?"

Arthur tried to remember. "It's all cloudy. I remember waking up on the floor, in his arms. I wanted him -- not just wanted, needed, no that's not right, it was more. I hungered for him." Arthur began to shake slightly as the memory washed over him.

Malcolm and Billy patted Arthur's hands, comforting him. Ray said, "Yes, that's the right word."

Confused, Arthur looked at the Creatures, seeing sympathy and understanding in their expressions. "I don't understand. How do you know what I felt?"

Pearl smiled. "We understand, Arthur, because we've been there before, drawn to someone, the need so powerful you'd do anything to make them yours."

Arthur's face whitened, a feeling of foreboding creeping up his spine. "What did I do?"

Kissing Arthur's hand, Malcolm made soothing noises as he stroked Arthur's skin. "You didn't do anything wrong, luv. You just did what you needed to do. You bit him and tasted his blood."

At the mention of blood, Arthur's mouth involuntarily began to water. He recalled the frustration of trying to break the skin of Curt's neck, feeling the pulse of life beneath his lips but being unable to reach it. He remembered the triumph of finally making a small cut, the taste of Curt's blood a salty tang on his tongue. But then he had been taken away from Curt, been unable to complete his claiming.

Arthur snatched his hands back, shaking his head back and forth. "Oh no, no, no. What's going on here? Who are you? What are you?" Arthur's voice rose. "What am I?"

Before Arthur could work himself into a complete panic, Malcolm said firmly, "Hush, Arthur. We will explain everything. We are your friends, never doubt that." Arthur quieted, feeling strangely compelled by the tone of Malcolm's voice.

Ray began to explain. "When we first met you, we knew you had potential."

"Very few humans are as sensitive, as aware as you are." Billy smiled at Arthur, eyes glinting with approval.

"We could sense your compatibility and we chose you, chose to give you an incredible gift," Pearl continued.

Arthur's gaze shifted from one to another. "Gift? I don't understand. I tasted his blood and I liked it, wanted more. You did this to me, made me a creature -- a Vampire." Arthur's voice shook with horror and disbelief.

Malcolm snapped, "We're not Vampires." The other Creatures nodded vigorously. "See, I told you he'd do this." Malcolm stood up and began pacing the floor in a huff.

Billy rolled his eyes. "Now see what you've done. Arthur, we aren't Vampires. Vampires are a fairy tale, a lot of tired cliches invented to titillate and terrify."

Pearl dove in. "It's true we drink blood, but there's a perfectly good reason for it."

"We aren't human; we're from another planet. Our life spans are much longer than the typical human's." Ray smiled at Arthur's look of stunned surprise.

Arthur opened his mouth then closed it again.

Pearl reached out to pat Arthur's knee. "It's okay, Arthur. We know it will take a bit of time to adjust to all we're telling you."

Arthur tried again. "Space aliens?"

The Creatures nodded.

"So horror is out but bad science fiction is okay?" Arthur sniped, wondering why they had decided to pull this bad joke on him now. "So you come to Earth, infiltrate the population by sucking their blood and turning them into Vamp -- " Seeing Malcolm's irritated look, Arthur rephrased, "-- non-Vampire-like creatures, then take over the world?"

Malcolm stomped back to Arthur, hands on hips. "Damn it all, Arthur, we're not plotting world domination -- we're on vacation."

"What?" Arthur felt completely at a loss.

Malcolm sat down on the couch again. "We're just here to make a little music, have a little fun. But when we saw you, we knew we couldn't ignore you."

Arthur took a deep breath, looking into the eyes of his friends. This was so completely unbelievable that it felt right. "You're really telling me the truth, aren't you?"

Smiling and touching Arthur's shoulder, Malcolm said, "Yes, luv. We're telling you the truth. We're aliens. Our blood carries microorganisms that allow us to connect with others. The four of us are bonded in blood. We feed from each other, are renewed by each other."

Pearl smiled widely. "The bond is a very special connection. Many of our kind can form a bond with another, but not many are capable of forming a bond with two or three others. As a bonded set, we are stronger, more powerful together than apart."

"We sensed you were special. If you can find the proper partners, you'll be able to form a strong bond as well," Billy said enthusiastically.

Perplexed, Arthur asked, "Me? I'm human. How can I form a bond?"

Ray answered, "The first night you were here we tasted you, introduced the microorganisms into your blood. They've been multiplying ever since, getting stronger. You are almost ready to bond with your first partner."

"That's why you were drawn to Curt. The hunger sends you looking for a true mate to change, to join with." Pearl saw Arthur's breathing speed up and tried to calm him. "It's nothing to fear, Arthur. It's incredible."

Malcolm smoothed Arthur's hair back from his face. "Once you find your mates, you'll never be alone again. All the times you felt ashamed of who you are, all the pain you felt when you didn't fit in, all of that will be gone. You will find true and perfect love. That's the gift we've given you."

Arthur desperately wanted to believe them.

*****

Curt slumped against Brian as they were driven home.

"Curt..."

Jesus, thought Brian, he's really sick.

Curt hooked a leg over Brian's and twined his arms around Brian's neck. "Hey, baby...how's it going?"

Oh, for fuck's sake, thought Brian, feeling himself hardening.

"Curt -- listen, Curt, you're sick. I'm taking you home."

Curt crawled on top of Brian. "Wanna fuck?"

"God, what did you take?"

"Nothin'. Not a thing. Antibiotics."

"Did you drink anything?"

Curt wriggled his ass in Brian's lap. "Had a beer."

Brian was relieved. That had to be it. "Don't drink anything else, Curt. It's making you...loopy."

"Me? Huh-uh." He bent and sucked on Brian's neck. "Yummy, yummy, yummy, I've got Brian in my tummy..."

Brian snorted laughter. "You pervert. Cut that out." Or else I'm going to come right here, he thought.

Curt leaned heavily on Brian. "Tired."

Tired and horny, Brian thought. Great combination.

When they finally reached the house, Brian struggled to help Curt out of the car. "God, Curt," he groaned. "You're heavier than you look."

Curt mumbled drowsily, his hands swiping at Brian.

Brian turned to his driver and bodyguard. "Tony -- can you help me?"

"Sure thing, Mr. Slade." Tony -- an ex-wrestler -- lifted Curt as easily as he would a child and carried his limp form through the house and into Brian's bedroom.

Curt moaned and grabbed Tony's jacket. "Whoa there, Mr. Wild -- not me, okay?" Tony settled Curt onto the bed and pulled Curt's boots off, dropping them to the floor. "He ought to get some sleep," Tony said to Brian. "He doesn't look so good."

Brian nodded. "Thanks for your help, Tony."

"No problem, Mr. Slade. Ten a.m. tomorrow?"

"Yes. Thanks."

Tony left quietly, and Brian stretched out on the bed beside Curt, one hand stroking Curt's stomach.

"Brian?"

Brian sat up. "How are you feeling?"

"Sick...hey, did you carry me into the house?" Curt's face was pale and confused, a crease forming between his eyebrows.

Brian laughed. "No, that wasn't me, Curt, it was Tony."

"Oh. Thought it was you. How's Arthur?"

"Who's Arthur?"

The crease deepened. "I don't remember."

Brian rolled off the bed and grabbed the antibiotics from the dresser top. "I think it's time to take these again."

"No, I don't wanna."

"Come on, Curt." Brian went into the bathroom and returned with a glass of water. "You have to take them."

"They make my pee orange." Curt's tone was plaintive.

Brian smothered a laugh. "Well...don't pee in front of anyone, then." He sat on the bed. "Come on, luv. Sit up."

Curt sat up with a groan. "Pain in the ass."

"If you take it like a good boy, I'll give you a spoonful of sugar," Brian crooned.

"Thought that came first."

"Not with me, it doesn't."

"Oh, all right." Curt took the huge, smelly pill from Brian's outstretched hand and swallowed it. He frowned and took a drink of water. "There. Do I get my sugar now?"

"Oh yeah, you've earned it." Smiling wickedly, Brian pushed Curt back into a reclining position and began to undo his pants. Any guilt that he might have felt for taking advantage of Curt in his weakened condition was assuaged by the stiffening prick beneath the supple snakeskin that Curt wore.

He released Curt's penis from the confining trousers and let his tongue linger over the crown. Slowly, he opened his mouth, letting the head slide inside. As his caresses intensified, Brian opened his mouth wider until the head of Curt's cock touched the back of his throat. Brian relaxed, preparing to give Curt the deep-throating of a lifetime -- except that Curt's prick wasn't all that hard. In fact, it seemed to be softening. What the hell -- am I losing my touch? thought Brian, annoyed. He looked up at Curt, silently demanding an explanation.

Curt was fast asleep.

What nerve, thought Brian. I'm so fucking horny I could spill, and he's asleep. I don't care if he is sick...what about me?

Miffed, Brian rolled onto his back between Curt's spread legs, and jerked off.

*****

Arthur sat on the rooftop, looking out at the city lights.

He heard Pearl's voice behind him. "There's an entire world of possibilities out there, Arthur. You have only to choose."

Arthur didn't respond.

Billy sat beside him. "You're angry, aren't you?"

"I didn't even know you were doing it to me -- making me a -- whatever it is I am." Arthur's voice conveyed a mixture of petulance and confusion.

"You are special, Arthur. It's a wonderful gift we've given you."

"Right. So you said. Am I going to have to -- kill people?" Arthur's voice trembled.

"No," Billy replied. "Listen, Arthur. Forget everything you think you know, and just accept what you are. You're not so very different from what you were before. You're just...enhanced."

"Enhanced?"

"Yes," said Pearl. "Look at us. We eat, sleep -- and not in coffins or any of that rubbish, mind you -- and to look at us, we're no different from any other human. True, we drink blood, but we don't have to kill anyone to do it, and as long as we have one another, we don't even have to drink from others at all. And when you form a bond, neither will you -- unless you want to."

"That bond --"

"Yes, luv?" Billy asked quietly.

"I know who I want to bond with."

Malcolm and Ray joined them on the roof in time to hear Arthur's announcement. "Who, Arthur?" Ray inquired.

"Brian Slade. And Curt Wild." "Well, they definitely are special," said Malcolm.

"And sexy," added Ray.

"And they're already together, so compatibility's not an issue," Billy said.

"But --" said Arthur, not liking the tone of their voices.

"But -- there's an entire city -- no, an entire world for you to choose from," said Malcolm. "And a blood bond is serious, Arthur. You'll be dependent on one another for a very, very long time, so you can't choose hastily. You have to think very carefully about your decision."

"But I want them!" cried Arthur. "And -- and I'm hungry." He blushed, embarrassed. He was, in fact, ravenous. The small taste of Curt's blood had awakened desires he hadn't known he possessed. And now he wanted to finish what he'd started, lying in Curt Wild's arms.

And Brian Slade -- oh, Brian would be sweeter still -- Arthur just knew it.

"Well, you can drink from anyone without forming a bond with them, Arthur," said Ray. "You don't have to stay hungry for long. And if you want, you can take a taste from anyone in Brian and Curt's world.

"Let's see...how about Mandy Slade?"

"Too sweet," said Billy.

"Jerry Devine?"

"Ugh," said Ray. "Too salty."

"Jack Fairy?"

The other Creatures considered this for a moment. Finally, Malcolm shook his head. "I don't think so," he said. "I can't figure that guy out."

"I've got an idea," said Pearl. "Let's go back to the party and pick a couple people out for Arthur to sample."

"I still want Curt and Brian," Arthur complained.

"No one's saying that you can't have them, Arthur. But Brian is going to be in Paris for a few days -- I heard him talking -- and Curt is sick. You have to bond with a healthy specimen. For now, enjoy what London has to offer."

"I don't -- that is, I don't know how to do it," said Arthur timidly.

Malcolm smiled warmly, putting his hand over Arthur's. "We'll show you, luv. Trust us, they don't even feel it, if you do it right. And most of them come to you willingly."

"Most of them?"

"There are some very strong-minded individuals who resist," said Pearl. "But even they succumb after a while. In fact, sometimes they're more fun...their blood is livelier, somehow."

"But not tonight," Billy said warningly. "Tonight we need to teach Arthur to drink responsibly. He can decide if he wants to play more later."

"Right. Arthur...are you ready?"

Arthur's hazel eyes glittered in anticipation. "I'm ready. Let's go."

*****

"Bri?" Curt groaned. He sat up groggily and looked at the clock. Jesus, three-thirty in the afternoon! He'd slept the entire fucking day. Well, he must have needed it, he reflected, because he felt a whole lot better. Oh, shit, he thought. Brian! He reached for the phone and the slip of paper with Brian's Paris hotel number. As he turned, Curt spied a note on the pillow. He picked it up and scanned it quickly.

Curt, I didn't want to wake you. Hope you're feeling better -- I'll call you tonight. Love, Brian.

Curt put the phone down and rose, feeling a trace of shakiness in his limbs. His ear didn't hurt so badly today. He grabbed the bottle of pills from the dresser and dry-swallowed one.

Oh, crap -- bad idea. Coughing and gasping, he stumbled into the bathroom and turned on the faucet. He cupped his hands under the stream and drank. When he regained his composure and began to breathe normally again -- though his eyes were watering and he felt like an idiot -- he went to the toilet and pissed.

Orange. Disgusting.

Shaking his head, he wandered back into the bedroom. Automatically, he picked his pants up from the floor. Brian was the biggest slob he'd ever met, despite the pristine appearance.

Curt frowned suddenly. What the hell had happened last night, anyway? He remembered going to the party, feeling sick, going to the bathroom -- oh, God -- that kid! That pretty, skinny kid who'd fainted in his arms! What the hell was his name? He couldn't remember. He hoped the kid was all right, though. The kid had been in a bad way last night, worse than he himself had been.

As Curt upended his pants to fold them, a small piece of paper fluttered out of the pocket and onto the floor. Curt picked it up. And I told Brian that nothing else would fit in these things, Curt thought, smiling. He examined the paper. It said, "Arthur," and there was a phone number.

Arthur, so that was his name. But why the hell did Curt have his number? Curt didn't think he'd asked for it, and Arthur hadn't been in any shape to slip it to him -- the number, or anything else.

He was about to crumple it up, when he felt the strangest urge to call the number.

Curt sat on the bed and picked up the phone, dialing the number that was scrawled on the paper.

Just to see how the kid was doing.

*****

"'Allo?"

"Um -- hi. This is Curt Wild. Is Arthur there?"

"Oh, hi Curt," said Ray. "Yeah, hang on, all right?"

He held the phone out to Arthur, who pointed at himself, stunned. "Me?" Arthur whispered.

Ray beckoned him over silently.

"Hello?"

"Hi. Is this Arthur?"

"Um -- yes."

"This is Curt. Curt Wild. I just called to make sure you're okay."

"Oh. Oh, yes, thanks, I'm fine."

"Okay. I just wanted to make sure."

"Yes. Fine." I sound like a jackass, Arthur thought desperately. Think of something else to say, idiot! "Um...how are you?"

There was a rough, sexy laugh on the other end of the phone, and Arthur felt his knees go weak. "Funny you should ask. I've been a little under the weather."

"Oh. That's terrible."

"Hey, no big deal. Listen...do you want to hang out tomorrow night?"

"Tomorrow?" God, I must seem like a moron.

"Yeah. We could go out to get something to eat. You were pretty pale last night, you could probably use a steak."

"Sure...that would be great."

"Cool. How about eight o'clock? I could pick you up."

"Okay." Arthur gave Curt the address. An awkward silence fell and Arthur struggled to think of something intelligent to say.

Finally Curt said, "Well, I'll see you tomorrow, huh?"

"Okay. Bye."

Arthur hung up the phone and stared at the Creatures, who had congregated in the kitchen to listen to Arthur's phone conversation. "That was Curt."

"We heard," Billy said.

"He's taking me to dinner tomorrow," he said, hardly able to believe it.

"Isn't that nice?" Ray commented.

A slow grin spread over Arthur's face. "Yeah."

"I think you've earned a reward, Arthur, for your keen instincts," said Malcolm. "Why don't you pay a little visit to Curt tonight?"

"Wouldn't that be pushy?"

"Not if Curt doesn't know you're there." Malcolm smiled smugly.

Arthur shivered. "Sounds wonderful."

*****

Curt hung up the phone and lay back in bed. Why did he feel like he was committing an indiscretion? It was just dinner -- he wasn't going to fuck the kid. Anyway, Brian had just given him the earring -- no, it's nothing, Curt thought uncomfortably. The kid looked like a dyed-in-the-wool virgin, anyway. Curt made it a policy never to mess with virgins -- if you were their first, they always blamed you for every unsatisfactory fuck after you.

Thus reassured, he got up, pulled the sheet around himself, and walked into the TV room. Brian called it the drawing room, but it had a television in it, so Curt didn't see the point in calling it anything else but the TV room. He turned the TV on and dropped onto a couch, feeling pleasantly tired, despite his long sleep, and more than prepared to waste the rest of the day. Maybe he could find a cheesy horror flick.

*****

It was midnight when Arthur silently entered the drawing room. He smiled with delight. "Enhanced" was certainly the proper word for him now. He was as quiet as a cat. He was strong, too -- stronger than he'd ever believed possible. He could see in the dark. And the Creatures said that there would be more gifts, and that they would grow stronger as time passed. Arthur couldn't wait. He was beginning to appreciate what the Creatures had done for him, and felt bad about his initial reaction. Now, however, there was only one thing to be concerned with. Two, actually -- one was in Paris and the other one was lying on a couch a few meters away, fast asleep, wrapped in a sheet.

Oh, he was so beautiful. Curt lay on his side, perfectly still, his legs curled up, his knees almost touching his chest. His mouth was slightly slack; his lips were surprisingly sensual in repose. Curt's hair was awry, and with his heightened senses, Arthur could see the dull gleam of a small hoop in Curt's earlobe. The sight of the delicate flesh, pierced by the cold metal, made Arthur incredibly aroused, and he almost moaned aloud. He made his way noiselessly to Curt's side and sank to his knees, licking his lips, the hunger a pulsing agony in him now. He could hear his own blood rushing through his ears. He bent down, his lips grazing Curt's vulnerable throat, but remembered the warning the Creatures had given him.

"Just a taste at first, Arthur. You don't want to drain him entirely...don't be greedy."

Just a taste, Arthur promised himself.

Curt stirred suddenly, rolling onto his back and stretching out his legs. He mumbled something incomprehensible and was silent again.

Arthur concentrated as the Creatures had taught him, and sent a surge of reassurance into Curt's mind.

"It's okay, Curt," Arthur whispered.

"Brian?" Curt's eyes were still closed. He was still asleep, but he was moving, and a crease had appeared between his eyes. Worried, Arthur sent another pulse of reassurance. God, what if Curt woke up?

"Shh...it's okay."

Curt's brow smoothed out, and he was still again.

Arthur bent down and kissed Curt's throat. The kiss grew deeper and deeper until Arthur's teeth sank into Curt's flesh and Curt moaned softly. Arthur's hand caressed Curt's body, and he felt himself swooning...

He pulled back abruptly. Had he taken too much? Curt was a little paler, true, but otherwise, he looked fine. Arthur leaned down again and licked the tear in Curt's neck. There. Gone.

Arthur stayed with Curt, watching him breathe, feeling his pulse beat strongly beneath his skin, smelling the unique scent of him, hearing him whisper, "Arthur." Overwhelmed by the sensual assault, Arthur kissed Curt's lips gently and reluctantly left the drawing room.

*****

Arthur slept late and then spent the rest of the day worrying. The Creatures tried to distract him, but as the afternoon wore on, Arthur became more and more unsettled. He was going to have dinner with Curt Wild. He looked at himself in the mirror and shuddered, pulling off the orange shirt. Orange was definitely not his color.

He was systematically trying on everything in the Flaming Creatures' extensive wardrobe, searching for something he wanted to wear for Curt. So far, he hadn't found anything.

Malcolm stepped into the bedroom, surveying the piles of discarded clothing. "Arthur, what exactly are you looking for?"

Turning to face Malcolm, Arthur shrugged. "I'm not sure. I want to look good, different, more mature, I guess."

Malcolm drifted over to stand before Arthur, running his hand from Arthur's neck down to his bare chest with a feather-light touch. "You don't need to change, Arthur, just be yourself." Malcolm's hand rested over Arthur's heart. "Curt will see beyond the clothes anyway."

Taking Malcolm's hand, Arthur kissed the tender skin of Malcolm's inner wrist, feeling the reassuring beat of the pulse beneath his lips. "Thank you, Malcolm -- for everything."

An angelic smile lit Malcolm's face as he heard the acceptance in Arthur's voice. "You're welcome, luv. Now let's find you something wonderful to wear."

*****

When Arthur emerged from the bedroom he felt a little more grounded. Ray walked around him, looking him up and down and whistling his approval. "Scrumptious."

Billy came out of the kitchen to see what Arthur had chosen. "Mm, maroon silk looks gorgeous on you."

"And the black leather pants are understated but make a statement," Pearl added.

Malcolm grinned at Arthur. "See, I told you you looked fetching."

The clock chimed eight and Arthur stiffened. "He's changed his mind, he's not going to show up."

Billy laughed brightly. "Oh, come on Arthur, give the guy a break. He'll show."

"Remember, he's a musician," Pearl said. "Musician time isn't the same as normal time -- it always runs late."

Taking a deep breath, Arthur unclenched his hands and tried to relax. "I just want him to like me for me, not because I influence him to like me."

Ray patted Arthur's back reassuringly. "He will, luv, he will."

A knock echoed through the flat and Malcolm went to open the door. Arthur froze, then grabbed Billy and fled into the kitchen. Ray flopped casually into an armchair as Pearl leaned against it.

"Hi Curt, come in, I'll get Arthur."

Curt stepped into the Flaming Creatures' apartment. Malcolm stuck his head into the kitchen and a moment later Arthur and another of the Creatures -- beside Malcolm he could never keep them straight -- entered the main room. Curt's eyes widened slightly when he saw how beautiful Arthur looked. "Hey, you look like you're feeling better."

Arthur gave a tentative smile. "So do you." Boy was that an understatement, Arthur thought. Curt looked utterly wonderful in a sapphire blue shirt that shimmered iridescently as he moved, and tight, dark tan leather pants.

Curt grinned. "Thanks. I must have really needed some sleep. I woke up this morning feeling better than I have in years."

Malcolm smiled innocently. "So, you're going to dinner."

"Yeah."

"Would you like to sit down?" Billy invited.

"No, thanks, we should get going." Curt glanced over at Arthur.

"Well, have a great time," Ray said.

"Thanks."

"Don't stay out too late," Pearl warned with a grin.

Arthur crossed the room, giving the Creatures an exasperated look. "You can ignore them, Curt. They don't mean to be overbearing, they just can't help themselves sometimes."

Curt laughed. "Night, guys."

*****

Arthur followed Curt out to the car, trying not to gawk as the driver opened the car door for them. Sitting next to Curt was both exciting and terrifying. While he remembered sipping from Curt, touching him, watching him, Curt wasn't yet aware of their connection. Arthur desperately wanted Curt to want him.

Surreptitiously, Curt watched Arthur, his face highlighted by passing lights. What was it about Arthur that was so magnetic, that drew him in regardless of his love for Brian? Sure, the kid was attractive, but so were a lot of people. And he was so damn young, so innocent. Curt hadn't been that innocent since he was thirteen.

The car pulled up to the restaurant and they went in.

*****

"Hey, you want dessert?" Curt asked.

Arthur smiled, pleased at how well their dinner was going. "Only if you do."

"They have a fantastic chocolate mousse cake. Want to share a piece?" The sides of Curt's mouth tilted up in an enticing grin.

Somewhat breathless, Arthur managed to say, "Sounds great."

After the dessert was brought to their table, Curt smiled lazily and patted the chair next to him. "Why don't you come over here so we don't have to stretch."

Silently, Arthur moved next to Curt and accepted the offered forkful of cake. Curt took a bite, licking the fork thoroughly before giving another piece to Arthur. Curt continued the sensual feeding ritual until the plate was clean. "Mm, got to love that cake."

Afraid he'd never make a coherent sound again, Arthur took a calming breath before saying, "Yes, it's incredible. Really -- chocolatey. Thanks for suggesting it."

"Oh, it was my pleasure, believe me," Curt purred.

At this point, Arthur was ready to believe anything Curt said. Sitting across from Curt all evening, talking, getting to know each other better, had all been a dream come true. While his hunger for Curt increased by the minute, Arthur had made a conscious decision not to try to influence Curt's feelings. He only hoped Curt could recognize the undercurrents of desire that flowed between them.

Back in the car, Curt draped an arm across Arthur's shoulders, pulling him close. "Thanks for going out with me, for talking to me. With Brian out of town I feel adrift."

Arthur snuggled closer to Curt's warm body, soaking up the feeling of being held by him. "I'd like to be your friend, Curt."

Curt stiffened for a moment before relaxing again. "Arthur, I don't have friends. I have a lot of acquaintances and I have Brian, but I don't have friends."

Saddened by the wistful tone of Curt's voice, Arthur stroked his hand along Curt's chest, tracing soft circles. "But you should. I could be your friend."

The combination of Arthur's touch and his gently but firmly spoken words was too much for Curt. He tilted Arthur's face up and leaned in for a kiss, tasting need and hunger and innocence. Fuck. He couldn't corrupt Arthur like this, when he loved Brian. It was obvious that Arthur would give him anything he asked for, but he couldn't ask, couldn't use the kid's infatuation for his own selfish pleasures. Curt pulled back. "Arthur, I can't do this. I don't want to hurt you. And I love Brian. Please don't make this any harder for either of us."

Burrowing his face into Curt's chest, Arthur bit back words of hunger and longing and possession. After a moment to regain control, Arthur drew back and looked squarely at Curt. "I'm not as innocent as you think. And I know you love Brian." I love him too, Arthur thought. "The only way you're going to hurt me is by not seeing me again, not giving us a chance to be friends."

Curt saw the intensity of Arthur's feelings, responded to them at a level he didn't understand, and knew -- no doubt about it -- that he was in serious fucking trouble. Running his thumb across Arthur's lips, Curt said, "You're a virgin, aren't you?"

Arthur flinched at Curt's direct question, feeling awkward and embarrassed again. Softly he said, "Yes."

Curt's hand traveled from Arthur's lips to the back of his neck. "I'm sorry, Arthur, I didn't mean to make it sound like that's a bad thing." Feeling Arthur relax a bit, Curt continued, struggling to express himself, to be honest with Arthur. "I really like you, Arthur. I feel something for you that I don't understand. I'm scared to look at it right now, but regardless, I'm not going to cross the line. I'm not going to betray Brian and I'm not going to use you, taint you. You deserve so much more than I can give."

"I don't want more," Arthur whispered, completing his thought with I want you.

Curt heard the unspoken words anyway. Just then the car pulled up to Arthur's building, effectively ending the conversation.

Good manners rising to the rescue, Arthur said, "Thank you for dinner, Curt, and for a wonderful evening."

Hearing the hurt behind the polite words, Curt needed to make Arthur feel better, to send him home happy, not miserable. "You're very welcome." Knowing he was sending mixed signals, but unable to resist, Curt captured Arthur's lips in a warm kiss, taking his time to explore, to give pleasure. He broke the kiss gently. "Night Arthur."

"Good night Curt." Deciding to take what Curt could give without pressing for more, Arthur smiled at Curt before slipping out of the car and going into the building.

*****

Curt lay naked in bed, sheets tangled around him, toying absently with his earlobe and the platinum earring. He was so confused. He knew he loved Brian. Knew he didn't want to do anything to risk what they had together. Brian was the first person ever to love him unconditionally, to see his flaws, his past, and not be horrified. Brian was the center of his universe. How could he even consider being with Arthur?

Still, he felt drawn to Arthur, wanted to capture his innocence, bask in his light. Arthur was just an ordinary person, nothing special, but that, in and of itself, made him special to Curt, who had rarely had the luxury of being an average person.

The phone rang and Curt's pulse sped up. He spoke into the receiver, "Hello?"

"Hi Curt. I tried you earlier but you were out. You must be feeling better."

"Hey Bri. Yeah, I am -- went out for dinner." Curt was about to tell Brian about Arthur but something held his tongue.

"I leave you alone for a couple days and you're already going out without me," Brian teased. "I'm not sure I like that."

Swallowing hard, Curt tried for a light tone. "I'm sure you're going out too, what with all that exotic French food available. Did you try the snails?"

Brian laughed. "I don't like soft, squishy, slimy things in my mouth."

Curt snorted. "No, you prefer hard, solid, slick things in your mouth," Curt purred into the phone.

"Oh yeah. Curt, you make me hard just by talking." Brian sounded increasingly breathless.

"Hey Bri, what are you wearing?" Curt asked innocently.

Willing to go along, Brian said, "A green silk robe. And you?"

Curt grinned to himself at the image of Brian in silk. "Nothing -- no wait, I guess you could count the sheet."

"I want you out from under the sheet, Curt." Brian's voice was rougher than usual.

"Okay. Now I want you to open your robe slowly. Let the edges slide over your skin, tease your nipples." Curt's hand drifted over his own chest, feeling his nipples tighten and his breath quicken. "Slide the silk off your shoulders, let it pool around your waist."

Brian's panting was audible. "Touch your thigh. Run your hand up and down the inside, stroke that soft skin."

"Oh, that's good. You still with me, Brian?" Curt's cock was hard and aching, ready for more intimate contact.

"Yeah, right there with you."

"Did I tell you to touch your cock yet?" Curt said harshly.

"How -- no, you didn't. You touching yourself?" Brian asked, voice seductive and needy.

"Oh yeah, I am. I'm imagining that it's your hand stroking my cock, fondling my balls, giving me pleasure." Curt rolled from his back onto his side, balancing the phone carefully, scissoring his legs.

"God, Curt, you're always so hot. I love feeling you -- around me, in me." Brian's voice trailed off into quiet moans.

Curt rolled his hips, thrusting into his hand, faster, grunting, leg muscles tightening. "Love you fucking me...love fucking you."

"Oh shite!"

"Fuck yes!"

Harsh breathing quieted into silence.

"Curt, you still there?"

"Sure."

"I'd better go, Jerry's going to have a fit when he sees the phone bill."

Curt laughed. "I'm appalled that Jerry's reaction was the first thing you thought about after coming with me. Besides, Brian, you're a fucking rock superstar. Jerry can damn well pay the phone bill."

"You're right. Thanks for helping me take the edge off."

Curt grew concerned. "Everything going okay?"

"Of course. I just miss you. We haven't been apart in a long time." Brian's voice sounded wistful.

"I know -- you've just gotten used to me. You'll be back before we know it."

"Yes. Good night, luv."

"Night."

Curt rolled over to hang up the phone. Lying on his back, Curt ran a finger over his stomach, letting it slide through his come. Now he was even more confused. He'd just had sex with Brian, and it had been great. But instead of feeling content and sleepy, he felt edgy, like he'd betrayed Arthur. Cursing under his breath, Curt got up and stalked into the bathroom to clean up.

*****

The Creatures were all waiting for Arthur when he got back. Arthur smiled at them. "Curt's definitely going to be one of my blood partners."

"Did you taste him again?" Billy asked.

"No, we had chocolate mousse cake," Arthur teased, trying not to sound too giddy.

"We're only asking to monitor how far along things are going," Malcolm said.

"At this rate, we think you'll be ready to bond in a couple of days," Ray told Arthur.

"Once you're ready, the hunger will compel you to complete the connection," Pearl added.

"We just want to be sure Curt's ready for you when you need him." Malcolm touched Arthur's forehead gently.

"Well, he's still confused about his feelings. He loves Brian but he feels drawn to me. He's honorable enough to be uncomfortable." Arthur sighed, uncertain if his desire to win Curt without tricks was realistic.

"The ones worth having are always the toughest cases," Malcolm said quietly.

"The weak and self-centered are easy, but not worth anything serious in the long run," agreed Billy.

"But what if I need him and he doesn't want me?" Arthur whispered.

"He will, Arthur." Malcolm paced, thinking out loud. "Brian's not due back until the day after tomorrow."

"That gives Arthur time to see Curt again tomorrow," Ray added.

"Yes, and then a day to entice him into the bond." Malcolm returned to face Arthur. "It will all work out fine."

"But what if..."

"If he really resists, we have a contingency plan." Pearl's smile spread across his face.

Grinning, Billy said, "It's really just a place to play, something for our image, if you will."

"If you need to, you can take Curt to our little hide-away for some quality time," Malcolm agreed.

Seeing Arthur's look of confusion, Ray explained, "We keep a well-equipped playroom in the catacombs of an old church."

Laughing, Billy said, "We call it our Underground Lair."

"If Curt really resists, you can take him there and explain what's happening, convince him he wants to bond." Malcolm rubbed Arthur's back reassuringly. "Don't worry, it will all work out."

"And once you've bonded with Curt, the two of you can convince Brian to join in." Ray looked pleased with the plan.

Arthur went around the room, hugging each of the Creatures. "Thanks for helping me. It's going to be fine. Good night."

In unison, the Creatures replied, "Night."

*****

Curt decided that he wasn't going to call Arthur again. Making a clean break would be better. Even knowing it would hurt him, it would be easier for both of them in the long run. Curt's resolve didn't last into the afternoon.

"Hey, it's Curt."

"Hey."

"Want to do something?"

"Sure."

"I'll come by and get you."

"Okay."

So it wasn't a brilliant conversation. They were both a little uncomfortable with the intensity of their unexpected feelings. Curt had woken up that morning with his cock rock-hard and Arthur's name on his lips. It had been disconcerting. He'd jerked off in the shower, trying to see Brian but ending up imagining being buried in Arthur.

Curt picked Arthur up, running the gauntlet of a living room full of Flaming Creatures. This time he thought he figured out which one was Billy. Ray and Pearl, however, were still indistinguishable. Maybe next time. Fuck, what was he thinking?

They spent the afternoon wandering through the British Museum. Neither one of them had ever been there and they had a wonderful time exploring. It helped that they were in public, so their physical attraction was held in check.

In the car on the way back Arthur touched Curt's arm, silently asking for closer contact. Curt took Arthur's hand. "I'm still trying to figure things out, Arthur. I do know I really like you. Can we be friends for now and not push anything else? Give it a little time?"

Arthur tried not to panic. He still had all day tomorrow before Brian got back. They had had a really nice time today, had talked and laughed and really connected. He could be patient. "Sure, Curt. I want to be your friend."

"You already are."

"Good."

*****

Curt let himself inside, nearly tripping over Brian's travel bag.

"Bri?"

Brian walked into the front hall, a stormy expression on his face. "Curt," he said flatly. "Where have you been?"

"Out."

"Out?"

"Yeah," said Curt uncomfortably.

"Can I ask where? And with whom? Or am I not allowed?"

"I went to the British Museum with a kid I met at the party the other day."

"Well, then, I suppose you're feeling better," Brian said, turning on his heel and striding into the kitchen. After a moment, Curt followed, feeling both annoyed and guilty.

Brian stood at the kitchen counter, pouring boiling water into a teapot. He set the kettle on the stove with a bang and threw a towel over the pot.

"Hey," Curt said softly, "is there enough for two?"

Brian turned to face Curt. "Who's this kid you met?"

"He's just --" No, he wasn't 'just' anything, thought Curt. He was -- fuck. "His name is Arthur Stuart," Curt continued, striving for calm. "He's from Manchester. He's only been in London for a few weeks."

"And you were, what -- showing him around?"

Curt recoiled at Brian's vicious tone. It was bad enough that he felt guilty and conflicted...now Brian seemed to be picking up on his feelings. Curt stepped forward and embraced Brian, nuzzling his neck. "I'm glad you're home early."

Brian remained unyielding. "Are you?"

"Of course I am. What's with you? Was your flight bad?" His arms tightened around Brian.

"It was fine. It's just that you seemed to be at death's door three days ago, and now I come home and you're tomcatting around London --"

"Hey, we went to the fucking British Museum, man."

Brian continued as if Curt hadn't spoken, "-- with some kid...Arthur, is it?" Brian's eyes widened. "You were asking about him the other night."

"What?" Had he been? He couldn't remember.

"You were," Brian accused. "You said, 'How's Arthur?'"

"Well, he fainted in the bathroom," said Curt.

"I see," Brian said coldly. "Overwhelmed by the proximity of the great sex god Curt Wild himself, no doubt."

"Brian --" "Please, Curt. Don't." Brian strode past Curt, through the hall, and into the drawing room.

Curt followed unhappily. Ordinarily he'd have snarled at Brian, told him to quit his fucking whining, but the truth was, there was more to this whole situation, and somehow Brian had picked up on it. Maybe it shouldn't have been a surprise. Curt had always been a lousy liar. His guilt and uncertainty must have shown on his face.

Brian sat on a couch, his arms tightly folded, his expression mutinous. And he looked fucking hotter than hell. Curt dropped to his knees in front of Brian. "Hey, babe," Curt said, stroking Brian's thigh, "listen. It's nothing, okay? I've got you. I don't need anyone or anything else." Arthur's delicate, pale face rose up in Curt's memory and Curt pushed the image away. No, he thought. There are a million reasons for not messing with that kid, enticing as he is. He's a virgin. He's a groupie. He's -- shit. You still want him. Admit it.

Brian closed his eyes, resting his head on the high back of the couch. "Forget it, okay?"

Curt was suddenly angry. He stood up and glared down at Brian. "No, I don't want to forget it. You're the one who's treating me like shit."

Brian gaped at him. "Me? What about you? Or does this --" he indicated the earring in his ear --" mean nothing to you? Hm? You know I wore the fucking thing for the photo shoot. They wanted me to take it out, but I told them no." Tears began to well up in his eyes, and he swiped at them furiously, smearing his eyeliner. "Fucking meaningless, I guess. Thanks a lot." He stood up and brushed past Curt on his way back into the kitchen.

Curt was left staring at nothing.

"Brian! Get back in here!"

"No! I have to make the tea!"

"Oh, fuck this," Curt growled. He all but ran into the kitchen and grabbed Brian by the arm. "Fuck the tea. You tell me what your problem is."

"Fuck you, Curt...you self-centered, cheating bastard. Fuck you! Let go!"

Curt kept his hold on Brian. "Not until you talk to me."

Brian shoved him back against the refrigerator with all of his strength. Startled, Curt was thrown off-balance by Brian's push. He righted himself somewhat gracelessly.

"Go fuck yourself, Curt." Brian's voice was low and dangerous. "Or better yet...why don't you go fuck Arthur."

"I don't want Arthur."

"You lying tosser."

Jesus, thought Curt, only one way to prove himself. He grabbed Brian by the arms and kissed him deeply, forcing his tongue into Brian's mouth. Brian resisted at first, but soon melted into Curt's fierce caresses.

They kissed and fondled one another for entire minutes, breath quickening with their arousal and overheated emotions, bodies responding to one another's touch. Suddenly Brian pushed Curt away.

"No," he breathed. "No. You fucking owe me, Curt. Take your trousers off."

Hands shaking, Curt complied. God, Brian was so fucking hot when he was pissed off. It was the oldest cliche in the book, but it was the truth. The hard, commanding edge in his tone, his snapping eyes, those pouting lips...Jesus, I'm gonna come now, Curt thought, slipping off his shoes and socks before he took his pants off.

"Now take your shirt off, you lying, cheating bitch."

"I didn't --" Curt began to protest.

"Now. Take your shirt off now, Curt."

Curt unbuttoned his shirt and let it drift to the floor, pooling around his feet.

"You're hard...is that for me? Or for Arthur?"

"For you," Curt croaked.

"Maybe," Brian grabbed the tea towel he'd thrown down before and stalked over to Curt. "Turn around."

Curt turned obediently, and Brian tied the towel over Curt's eyes. Curt felt Brian's hand caress him roughly, and gasped as Brian gave one nipple an ungentle tweak.

"Now it doesn't matter, Curt," said Brian, his normally cultured tone broadening into the Birmingham accent Curt knew he'd worked hard to erase. "It doesn't fucking matter, does it, then?"

"I --"

"Shut up. Just shut your fucking mouth. When I want you to talk, I'll tell you to talk."

Curt stood silent and motionless, listening to the scraping of chairs across the floor, and the sound of cabinets opening and closing. Suddenly, there was a hand on his back, guiding him towards the kitchen table.

"Bend over."

"Brian --"

"Bend over, I said." There was a sharp slap on his ass, and Curt bent over the kitchen table, supporting his weight on his forearms. Curt heard the sound of a lid being unscrewed, and suddenly two long fingers, coated with something oily, God knew what, thrust into him.

"Hm. Maybe you weren't lying after all." Brian's voice was coldly amused. Curt squirmed as Brian thrust more deeply into him, stretching him...in, out, in, out...

"Brian --"

"I thought I told you," Brian ground out, "to shut up."

Curt moaned from behind clenched teeth, his hips beginning to undulate in time to Brian's questing fingers. Brian's other hand reached around and closed on Curt's cock. Curt let out a whimper as Brian began to jerk him off.

"You like that, Curt?"

"Yeah..."

The hands were removed from Curt's cock and ass, and he moaned again in frustration. But then he felt Brian's hands at him again, spreading his thighs wider, spreading his ass apart, and then Brian's cock was sliding into him, slowly.

"Who's fucking you, Curt?"

"You..."

"Who?"

"You are, Brian."

"That's right."

One of Brian's hands landed on his shoulder, the other found his cock again and began to pump it. Curt gave a half-moan, half-sob.

"Who do you belong to, Curt?" The pumping in his ass and on his cock was becoming harder, faster.

"You -- Brian -- you."

"You're mine."

"Yours..." Curt was gasping for air, feeling incredibly light-headed.

"Say it again."

"Yours, Brian."

"Again...you fuck."

"Yours -- yours -- oh, fuckin' Christ, yours, yours, yours!" Curt screamed as he came into Brian's hand. Brian's hand fell away from him, fastening on his other shoulder. Curt could feel the warm stickiness of his own come on his shoulder as Brian's hand tightened on him harshly. Brian slammed into him again and again, finally crying out loudly, collapsing against Curt's back.

They stayed slumped against the kitchen table for a moment, breathing heavily, exhausted. Then Brian pulled out of Curt.

"I need a shower," Brian said, his tone clearly not inviting Curt to join him.

Curt waited until he heard Brian's light tread on the stairs. Then he straightened and pulled the tea towel away from his eyes. He looked around the kitchen, at the cooling pot of tea.

"Fuck," he whispered softly.

*****

"Hello?"

"Hi -- Arthur?"

"Yes," Arthur said warmly, recognizing Curt's voice. "Curt?"

"Yeah. Hey, how are you doing?"

"I'm great, thanks." Arthur couldn't keep the grin out of his voice. But somehow, he didn't care.

"Listen, I can't get together with you today, all right?"

Arthur's heart sank. "Oh."

"Yeah. Brian came back early, and he wants me to sort of hang out with him. Sorry about that." Curt sounded sincerely apologetic, but there was an edge to his tone that Arthur couldn't quite place. Of course, he didn't know Curt really well, but still, Curt sounded odd.

"Well, don't worry about it," Arthur said, trying to conceal his bitter disappointment.

"I'm really sorry," Curt said pleadingly.

"It's okay. Maybe some other time."

"Sure."

"Well...I've got to go," Arthur lied. "I've got to..." He fished desperately for some excuse.

"Yeah, me too," Curt replied.

"Okay. See you."

"Bye." There was a click, then silence. Arthur put the phone down quietly.

"Arthur, luv?"

Arthur turned around to see all four Creatures gazing at him with concern.

Arthur struggled to speak. "He -- he can't see me," he stammered. "Brian's back. I don't think..." He slumped to the ground, near tears. Ray and Pearl pulled him up gently and led him to the couch, sitting next to him, holding him protectively.

"I'm...so hungry," Arthur whispered.

"We know, luv," said Billy. "It's hard when the need to bond is so strong."

"Don't worry," Malcolm said with assurance. "We'll help you, Arthur."

"We're just going to have to go with the contingency plan," said Pearl.

"I smell trouble in Curt and Brian's Paradise," Ray said shrewdly.

"How do you know?" asked Arthur. It was exactly what he'd been thinking.

"One knows these things," Billy shrugged. "Now...how do we get ahold of Curt?"

"We could just break in and grab him," Pearl suggested.

"No finesse!" Ray scoffed. "No, lads. Think. Trouble in Paradise."

"We could make it worse," grinned Malcolm.

"We don't want to do that, do we?" Arthur asked anxiously. Hungry as he was, he didn't want to cause Curt or Brian any pain.

"Don't worry, luv. It won't be a permanent arrangement," Malcolm said slyly.

"How?" asked Arthur.

"Leave that to me," replied Malcolm, a smug smile creasing his face.

*****

"Hello?"

"Hi! Is Arthur there?"

Brian stiffened. "There's no one here by that name. You have the wrong number."

"Oh -- isn't this Curt Wild's number?"

For a moment, Brian was almost blinded by sheer rage. "Yes. Is there a message?"

"Well, Arthur told me that he would be there," the voice said airily. "I suppose I could leave a message, if he shows up. Is Curt there?"

"He's in the shower."

"Oh, is he getting ready for Arthur to come over?"

Brian gritted his teeth. "Is there a message you'd like me to give Curt?" he snapped, his patience at an end.

"Well, if Arthur shows up, tell him to give Malcolm a call, okay?"

"Certainly," Brian ground out. "Goodbye." He slammed the phone down and glared at the bathroom door. "Bloody hell."

*****

"Well, I think that went rather well," Malcolm said, smiling.

Arthur and the other Creatures nodded their enthusiastic agreement.

*****

"You had a phone call." Brian's face and voice were contorted with fury.

"Who was it?"

"Someone named Malcolm," Brian spat out, "looking for Arthur. Apparently you and he had a date."

Curt was silent.

"Well?" Brian demanded.

"Look...we were supposed to hang out. But I didn't want to...I cancelled."

"Just a little evening fun, is that it?"

Curt shook his head and began to towel his hair dry. "Relax, all right? It's no big deal. It's no big fucking deal."

"And you gave our phone number out -- after I told you it's supposed to be private."

Curt frowned. He couldn't remember giving Arthur his number. "No, I didn't."

"The fuck you didn't! Now every fucking groupie in London's going to be calling. I'll have to get it changed. Again. Jerry's going to hate that. You know he told you not to give it out!"

Curt snapped, "I didn't fucking give it out!"

"Sure you didn't," Brian sneered. "You probably didn't fuck Arthur, either. You're amazing, Curt, you know that?" Brian reached up and unfastened the earring from his ear, wincing at the pain in the still-tender flesh. He threw the earring at Curt. It missed him, landing on the carpet. "Go and get fucked, Curt."

Curt stared at Brian, feeling a flush creeping through his entire body. Shaking, he pulled on his black leather pants, buttoning them rapidly. He reached blindly into a drawer and yanked out a shirt. He pulled it over his head and forced his arms into it. He found socks and his old black boots and slipped them on. Still trembling, he stalked to the door, stopping to glare angrily at Brian.

"Fuck you, you son of a bitch. Fuck you."

He slammed the bedroom door and ran downstairs, banging out the door and into the dark, rainy street.

Halfway down the block, he pulled up short. The Flaming Creatures stood in front of him, dressed to the nines. Curt felt another surge of anger. He pointed at Malcolm. "Did you call me?"

"Yes," Malcolm replied calmly.

"What the fuck for? Didn't you know that I wasn't going to see Arthur today?"

"Yes, we knew," Ray -- or was it Pearl? -- said. "But it was the only way to get you out of the house."

"What the hell are you talking about?" Curt snapped.

"Arthur wants very much to see you," said Malcolm.

"He was disappointed when you couldn't make it," added Billy.

"And he really, really likes you," said Pearl -- or Ray. Fuck.

"Yeah, well, I like him, but tonight's not a good night, okay?" Curt tried to shoulder through the Creatures, but they didn't move. Curt stepped back, raising an eyebrow.

"Uh -- okay?"

"Sorry, Curt. You've simply got to see Arthur tonight."

"He needs to see you."

"Needs you very badly."

"I'm afraid you can't say no."

Bewildered and angry, Curt looked from one Creature to another. Shaking his head, he turned, gasping as strong hands yanked him backwards. "Hey! What the fuck!"

The Creatures closed in on him. Suddenly panicked, Curt began to fight. "Get the fuck off me! Get off!" He kicked and tried to swing a fist, but it was caught in someone's hand, and his arm was wrenched behind his back. "Ow! You fucker! What --" His protests were cut off by a hard hand over his mouth, and suddenly Malcolm's voice was in his ear.

"Quiet, now, Curt. You're tired, and you don't want to fight."

Undaunted, Curt continued to struggle furiously, biting at the silencing hand. "Curt...you're tired. All you want to do is sleep. Sleep, Curt. Sleep now."

Amazingly, Curt felt his eyelids start to drift shut. Shit, no! What were they doing?

"Sleep, Curt."

No!

"Sleep." It was a soothing whisper in his ear, and he felt a stab of fear as he realized his struggles were lessening. He could barely breathe, and he felt his knees weakening.

"Shh..."

The whisper followed him down into the whirling darkness.

*****

Arthur paced back and forth in the main playroom of the Underground Lair. Ordinarily, he would have been intrigued and excited by the dungeon. But now, with the hunger growing stronger by the hour, he just didn't care about the chains and whips, the huge bed draped in scarlet silk in the center of the room, the rough-hewn stone walls illuminated by candlelight, the subtle scents of leather and moist earth.

All he cared about was Curt.

The Creatures had gone out to retrieve him, to bring him here to Arthur. Groaning, Arthur lay on the bed, curling around a pillow, rubbing his face against the smooth silk, imagining it was Curt's skin.

He was so hungry.

Arthur was distracted from his thoughts as the door creaked open and the Creatures entered. Malcolm carried a limp Curt in his arms. "What have you done to him?" Arthur practically snarled, snatching Curt from Malcolm and placing him gently in the center of the bed. Arthur settled Curt against his body, wrapping his arms around Curt protectively.

"It's okay, luv. We just put him to sleep. He's fine." Knowing the strength of Arthur's hunger, Malcolm didn't try to get between them.

The Creatures climbed onto the bed, sitting in a circle around Curt and Arthur.

Arthur's mouth watered and his nostrils flared at Curt's proximity. He needed to taste Curt, complete the transformation begun at the party. Arthur nuzzled Curt, brushing his hair aside, exposing his neck.

Arthur felt a gentle hand on his arm and heard Malcolm's voice, soft but firm. "Wait, Arthur."

Shaking off the grip, Arthur wailed, "I can't!"

"Yes, you can," Billy said patiently.

"Remember, it's not just a matter of tasting him -- he's already changing," Ray admonished.

"You need to form the initial bond with him," Pearl reminded.

"Then your hunger will be more manageable," Malcolm reassured.

Arthur tried to focus on the Creatures, tried to see through the red haze of his longing. "Yes, need to bond."

"Remember, luv, you need Curt alert and willing to bond -- you can't force him," Pearl said calmly.

Arthur looked to Malcolm, trying not to sob his frustration. "Help me."

Malcolm stroked Arthur's hair soothingly. "You're doing fine, luv. Just breathe and try to relax. Focus on my voice and release your fear. We're here and we're going to make sure everything goes perfectly. Curt will want you, you just have to give him the chance."

Following Malcolm's directions, Arthur felt the immediate hunger recede, allowing him a measure of control. "Thanks."

"You're welcome. Go ahead and wake him."

Arthur touched Curt's face, gently caressing the smooth skin before leaning over to touch his lips to Curt's. "Wake up, Curt."

Arthur watched as Curt's eyes fluttered open, body stretching before snuggling into Arthur's heat. He traced his hand up and down Curt's back. "Curt? It's Arthur."

Still slightly groggy, Curt burrowed closer to the warm body, mumbling, "Arthur?"

"Yeah, come on...wake up, luv." Arthur rubbed Curt's back more strongly. Curt arched into the touch, purring his pleasure.

Being this close to Curt while he was still not completely lucid was torture. Arthur wanted to strip Curt and plunge into him, taking what the hunger demanded. Instead, he kissed Curt gently, holding him close as he woke up.

Curt drifted out of the warm comfort of sleep, stiffening as he realized he didn't know where he was or how he'd gotten here. Slowly he remembered the blow-up with Brian and the confrontation with the Flaming Creatures. Focusing his eyes, Curt realized he was sitting on a bed in Arthur's embrace, surrounded by the Creatures, in some sort of...dungeon. Shit. "What the fuck's going on here?" Curt demanded, pulling away from Arthur.

Arthur sat up a little straighter, trying not to be discouraged by Curt's belligerent tone and physical withdrawal. Speaking quickly, Arthur said, "It's a long story, but the short answer is that we've been drawn together to form a mental bond that will increase our life spans and give us the joy of true love." Arthur held his breath for Curt's reaction.

"What the fuck have you been smoking?" Curt sounded both confused and incredulous.

Not knowing what to say, Arthur looked to Malcolm for help.

"Curt, I know this must seem strange, but search your feelings for Arthur. I know you feel the connection, the yearning to be with him."

Curt looked between Malcolm and the other Creatures, seeing their complete seriousness. Slowly he agreed, "Yes, I feel drawn to Arthur, but what does that have to do with anything?"

"When we met Arthur we knew he was special," one of the Creatures said.

Curt leaned over to Arthur, whispering, "Ray or Pearl?"

Arthur grinned and whispered back, "Pearl."

Curt nodded.

"We saw this right away and wanted to help him find his true companions," Billy said.

Arthur added, "The night of the party, when we first met, I wanted you so bad. I knew we were meant to be together."

Curt focused on Arthur. "I thought we'd had this conversation, Arthur. I'm not sure what I feel for you, but I know I love Brian. Even if he weren't so jealous, I couldn't just go behind his back. I'm really sorry."

"You don't understand, Curt," Ray said.

"You are special, too. Arthur's chosen you for a blood bond," Pearl revealed.

"You'll be loved; you'll never be completely alone again." Malcolm smiled dreamily.

"Blood bond?" Curt was getting agitated.

Arthur took Curt's hand between his own. "That night, at the party -- I tasted your blood, started the change that will allow us to bond. I didn't understand at first either. I was scared and angry, but now that I've gotten to know you, I know I want you. Know I love you."

"Arthur, I'm really sorry. This doesn't make any sense. I need to get out of here." Curt tried to slip off the bed.

Without threatening him, the Flaming Creatures nevertheless blocked his every exit. Fuck. "What do you want with me?" Curt asked Malcolm.

"Arthur needs to bond or he'll die. He wants you but you have to be willing or it won't work. We want you to realize your feelings for Arthur and let him complete the bond."

"He'll die?"

"Yes."

"How do we create a bond?" Curt asked cautiously.

The Creatures smiled and said in unison, "Sex."

Arthur turned to Curt. "It's not just sex, although that's where we get enough energy to forge the bond. It's opening up to each other, seeing each other completely, accepting and loving who we are. And it's a life-long commitment.

" Curt bit his lip. "This is all way too strange. I don't know what to say. I really like you, Arthur -- I might even love you. But I also love Brian." He hated being torn this way, between these two very different men.

Arthur's smile lit up his face. "I love Brian, too. It's supposed to be a three-way bond. Once we bond, we bring Brian in and convince him to join us."

Relaxing a bit at this revelation, Curt said, "Brian doesn't share well. I'm not sure he'll want to join us."

"I think we can convince him," Arthur stated, needing Curt intensely but trying not to sound like he was begging.

Amazed that he could sense Arthur's hunger, Curt ran his hand along Arthur's face and down to Arthur's neck, feeling the rapid pulse beneath his fingers. "Okay. I'm still not sure if I believe you, and I'm going to want a better explanation about all this eventually, but it feels like you need to do this now."

Arthur smiled in relief and joy. "Yes."

When the Creatures made no move to leave, Curt looked at them pointedly. "Have you guys ever heard of privacy?"

Malcolm laughed quietly. "Sorry. Arthur's very dear to us, we just want to see things work out properly." They slipped off the bed and headed for the door.

"Thanks," Arthur said before dismissing them from his mind and fixing his attention on Curt. The hunger was back full-force.

Malcolm returned to the bed. "May I have your earring, Curt? We need it to lure Brian here."

Curt's eyes widened. He was surprised that they would know the earring's significance. Removing the earring, he silently gave it to Malcolm.

*****

The Flaming Creatures stood together in an adjoining room, silently watching Curt and Arthur through the mirror.

*****

Curt replaced his fingers with his lips, lightly running his tongue over Arthur's neck. He was so confused. Even after their fight, he knew he loved Brian, wanted Brian. But he was mentally and physically drawn to Arthur in a way he couldn't explain. Maybe they were telling the truth. He felt dangerously out of control, swept up in something larger than his normal every day existence. And yet, the thought of being accepted and loved by both Brian and Arthur was irresistible.

Arthur felt the moment when Curt decided he wanted the bond. Trying not to be too aggressive, Arthur tugged at Curt's shirt, pulling it up and slipping his hands against the smooth skin of Curt's chest and back. "I need you so much, Curt. Please let me have you."

Curt pulled his shirt over his head, tossing it carelessly to the ground. He laughed quietly as he saw Arthur staring at him with a decidedly lecherous gaze. "I'm yours, Arthur," Curt said gruffly.

Curt ran his thumb over Arthur's lips, feeling Arthur's warm breath caress his skin. Helping Arthur take off his shirt, Curt realized once more how young and innocent he really was. Curt's first introduction to sex had been a painful, terrifying experience. He was sure as hell going to make sure that Arthur's wasn't.

Arthur trembled as he sat bare-chested before Curt. Brushing Arthur's dark hair off his face, Curt murmured, "Don't be frightened. You are beautiful, and I want to make love with you." Curt's gentle expression and soft words reassured Arthur.

Curt touched their lips together, letting his desire flow through him and into Arthur. The response was electric. Reassured that he was wanted, Arthur opened his mouth, deepening the kiss. Compelled by his hunger, Arthur pushed Curt back until he was lying on the bed. Covering Curt's body, Arthur moved against him whispering, "I need to taste you."

Trusting Arthur, Curt tilted his head back, baring his throat. "Do it -- take whatever you need." Curt felt Arthur's lips and tongue on his neck, but no pain.

Arthur penetrated Curt's skin carefully, sucking hard, taking Curt's blood, tasting it, making sure that Curt was ready for the bond. He was. Arthur took one more sip, savoring the taste of the tangy liquid on his tongue. Then he closed up the puncture wound and let the need to bond flow through him.

Overcome with excitement, Arthur groped at Curt's groin, trying to open the leather pants. After a moment of fumbling, Curt covered Arthur's hands with his own and helped Arthur undo the pants, crooning, "Easy now. I'm here...I'm yours." Curt efficiently undid Arthur's pants, opening them to expose Arthur's hard cock.

Arthur gasped as Curt's hands touched him, removing the pants, freeing his erection from its confinement. He was so aroused he didn't think he could wait. Curt's voice washed over him, a gentle, calming flow of words, praising, soothing, enticing. Arthur closed his eyes and focused on relaxing, on control.

Knowing Arthur had never done this before -- either sex or bonding -- the Flaming Creatures had tried to teach him to focus. All he had to do was stay in control for a little while. Once the initial connection had been made, the bond would form spontaneously as they climaxed.

As Arthur calmed, Curt stripped off his footwear before wiggling out of his pants. Getting onto his hands and knees, Curt looked about for lube, eventually finding some under a pillow. Curt felt the warm weight of Arthur's body molded against his back, arms wrapping around his waist. Curt groaned and pushed back, feeling Arthur's cock slide against his inner thighs.

As his cock rubbed between Curt's thighs, Arthur whimpered, practically swooning in delight. He had never felt anything this delicious before in his life. He was desperate to sink into Curt's body, to join them in body and mind. He thrust awkwardly, blindly trying to find Curt's opening, pushing, prodding -- success.

"Hold on a minute, Arthur," Curt panted, trying to open the lube. The kid was so excited, so caught up in the need to bond that he was trying to push himself into Curt dry. Curt tightened involuntarily as Arthur forced the head of his cock against Curt's anus. Realizing that Arthur couldn't stop, Curt managed to twist over onto his back, grabbing Arthur's cock and slicking it with lube. Quickly positioning Arthur, Curt pulled his legs to his chest, spreading them widely. He tried to relax as Arthur slid up his ass in one long stroke.

Arthur wailed in ecstasy as he plunged into Curt, his cock enveloped in velvet heat. "Curt!"

Curt grunted as Arthur slammed against his prostate, the electric spark of pleasure superseding the pain of such abrupt entry. "Arthur..."

They moved together, passion flaring as their minds connected. Curt could actually feel Arthur's joy, the intense pleasure of being inside Curt. It was an incredible perspective.

Buffeted by a whirlwind of sensation, Arthur let Curt's strength help center him. Feeling Curt's wonder at being able to sense him, Arthur knew the bond was forming, would complete itself when they came. Smiling in relief, Arthur kissed Curt fiercely, driving into him again and again.

They cried out together as they crested, connected for an instant in the deepest possible way, bodies and souls intertwined.

In the aftermath, Curt blinked, trying to catalogue his feelings. Arthur had collapsed on top of him, a warm heaviness that felt instinctively right. Stroking Arthur's back, Curt realized he felt invigorated, the aches and pains of his life melted away by Arthur's presence. He tried to reach out mentally to Arthur but although he felt exhausted contentment radiating from Arthur, he was unable to speak with him.

Arthur basked in the warm feeling of Curt's hard, smooth body beneath him. The gnawing, insatiable hunger that had driven him was muted, momentarily satisfied by Curt. He felt the connection between them, knowing it would strengthen as they stayed together, when they added Brian to complete the triad.

Kissing Arthur's hair, Curt murmured, "You okay, Arthur?"

A quiet rumbling issued from Arthur, unintelligible words brushing against Curt's chest.

Curt rolled them over onto their sides, still stroking and kissing him. "Arthur?"

Arthur pulled back a bit so he could meet Curt's eyes. "I'm fine. More than that -- I'm wonderful. You're fantastic. I love you so much, Curt."

"I love you too, Arthur," Curt offered.

Rich hazel eyes looked deeply into bright blue-green eyes, hope and uncertainty clearly warring with each other.

"Really?"

Curt smiled and took Arthur's lips with his own. "Really...truly...I love you."

They held each other close, feeling their love flowing back and forth from one to the other on gentle currents of peace, contentment, and acceptance.

*****

The Flaming Creatures stood together, watching Arthur and Curt discover their love. Billy and Malcolm, arms wrapped around each other's waists, stood in front of the mirror. Behind them, Pearl and Ray mimicked the embrace. Their other arms draped across Billy and Malcolm's chests, connecting the two pairs.

"That was so beautiful. I knew Arthur was special the moment we saw him," Malcolm sniffed.

The other Creatures nodded their agreement.

"Brian should be arriving soon," Ray said.

"It's not over yet," Billy agreed.

"Let's just hope Brian doesn't make things too difficult on them," Pearl said.

*****

Brian had been so pissed at Curt, an anger that, he acknowledged, hid his terror that he was losing his love to another. Curt hadn't returned, and his anger was burning out, leaving him listless and depressed.

When a knock sounded at the door, Brian raced to open it, hoping that Curt had returned. Instead, there was a messenger with a letter. Tearing open the envelope, Brian gasped as Curt's earring fell into his palm. There was an address scrawled on a piece of paper and a warning to come alone or else. Oh god, someone had kidnapped Curt. He had to do something.

Brian walked quickly through the streets, heart beating too quickly, breath catching as he approached the address. He saw an old stone church, rundown and apparently abandoned. He opened the door carefully and tentatively entered. The hallway was dark, but light flickered from a doorway. Brian frowned at the sound of voices floating up from a flight of stone stairs. Cautiously, Brian followed the light of the wall torches, descending into the catacombs.

*****

Curt and Arthur had cleaned up and were now sitting pressed up next to each other on the bed, sipping tea with the Creatures. Still trying to assimilate all that was happening, Curt asked them to explain the situation again.

The Creatures complied, knowing that Brian was listening in the stairway.

When they admitted they were aliens, Curt's eyes widened but he could feel Arthur through the bond and the change in his own body, so he readily believed their explanation.

Brian didn't have the same benefit. He thought all the talk of blood bonds and microorganisms and space aliens was rubbish. The worst part, however, was peeking out to see Curt sitting in bed, obviously naked beneath the sheet, with -- Brian presumed -- Arthur next to him, touching him. Brian had rushed to the address expecting Curt to be in mortal danger, and here he was, having a fucking tea party. It was unbearable.

Storming into the room, Brian ignored the Creatures sitting at the foot of the bed and approached Curt. "You bastard! When I got your earring, I thought you were in danger. I risked myself by coming after you alone, only to find you sitting here naked with someone else. How dare you!"

Curt squeezed Arthur's hand, then stood up and unselfconsciously walked up to Brian. "Don't be bent out of shape, Bri. I do love you and want you." Curt pulled Brian close, kissing his lush lips, feeling him tense and then relax into the embrace.

Being this close to Brian triggered a new natural response in Curt and he nuzzled Brian's neck, trying to figure out how to taste Brian. Feeling Curt nibbling on his neck, Brian pushed him away angrily. "Don't you tell me you actually believe these...idea-stealing...creatures," Brian spat. "I made up Maxwell Demon, space alien, first -- they're just cheap imitations."

Curt laughed at Brian's description. "Actually, if you remember, these are the Flaming Creatures, and yes, I do believe them."

"This is insane, Curt. Come home with me and I'll forgive and forget." Brian looked pointedly at Arthur, still in bed, avidly watching Brian's reactions.

Curt cupped Brian's face in his hands. "I'm sorry, I can't do that. Did you hear the Creatures talking about blood bonds?" Brian nodded slightly. "Well, I just formed one with Arthur."

Still not really believing any of this, but feeling threatened nonetheless, Brian shook off Curt's hands and snarled, "Damn you, Curt. How could you do this to me?"

"Stop being so fucking territorial. We want you to join us, create a three-way bond. It's unbelievable, Brian. We can be together, closer than you could ever imagine, for a very long time. Please trust me."

Brian stubbornly refused to listen. "I need to get out of here. If you won't come with me, I guess that's it, then." Brian looked pleadingly into Curt's eyes before turning on his heel to leave.

The Creatures blocked his way.

Malcolm calmly approached Brian. "We can't let you leave, Brian."

"Curt and Arthur need to bond with you," Ray stated.

"They are bonded, but it's incomplete until you join," Billy said.

"Please listen to Curt," Pearl cajoled.

Brian looked at them, blue eyes flashing with anger. "Get the fuck out of my way."

"I'm sorry, Brian, we can't do that. If you're going to be difficult, we'll have to take more drastic measures." Malcolm nodded to the Creatures. They advanced on Brian, capturing his arms and dragging him over to a metal bar suspended from the ceiling.

Brian struggled as Pearl and Ray pulled his arms above his head and attached manacles to his wrists. "Curt, don't let them do this to me. Help me!" Brian jerked at the chains in frustration.

The Creatures retreated, leaving Brian secured and furious.

Curt hated seeing Brian scared, but he had to admit that Brian looked fabulous in chains. He glanced at Arthur, already feeling a similar reaction through the bond. The hunger was returning and this time, Curt felt it deep within himself.

Getting out of bed, Arthur walked over to Curt, taking his hand. "We need to taste him so he can change."

"How long will it take until he's ready to bond? I'm so hungry." Curt sounded slightly bewildered.

Pearl lightly touched Curt's face, reassuring him gently. "Since you are now bonded, if you both taste him the transformation will be accelerated."

"He's still going to have to agree to bond, though," Billy reminded them.

Malcolm put his hands on Curt and Arthur's shoulders. "We'll give you some privacy. When you are ready to bond, open this." Malcolm pressed a small wooden box into Arthur's hand.

Arthur gave Malcolm a questioning look, but nodded and put the box at the foot of the bed.

Satisfied, the Creatures drifted out of the main room.

Curt looked at Arthur. "Okay, we can do this." He advanced on Brian, pulling Arthur with him.

Brian was glad when the Creatures left, but was rather unhappy to see Curt holding on to Arthur's hand. For some inexplicable reason, that innocent touch between the two naked men was more threatening to him than more intimate contact.

"Brian, this is Arthur." Curt watched as Brian silently raked his eyes over Arthur's body. "I realize you don't know him, but I know he's a really nice person. He loves our music, loves us. Please give this a chance."

Striking out on the offensive, Brian said scathingly, "There's no fucking way you're going to convince me to join you." Looking pointedly at Arthur, Brian continued, "I don't share Curt with anyone."

Arthur's face flushed in embarrassment at Brian's cold appraisal of his body and harsh words. This really wasn't the way he'd wanted to meet Brian.

Curt said irritably, "Brian, don't be rude. This is life-and-death serious. We need to bond with you."

Brian snorted elegantly. "I don't believe that shite."

Curt turned to Arthur. "I don't think reasoning with him now is going to get us anywhere. I think we need to taste him, start the change, and then try again."

Arthur nodded. "I think you're right."

"Damn you both -- don't talk to each other like I'm not here," Brian demanded, miffed that his wishes were being ignored so casually. "Get me the hell out of these...things." Brian clattered the chains above him.

"Bri, if you can't be civil, we're going to have to gag you."

Brian sputtered and shut his mouth.

Arthur looked carefully at Brian. "We're going to have to get his shirt off so we can expose his neck."

"The fuck you are, you --"

"Enough!" Curt snapped, increasingly irritated as his hunger grew and Brian continued to resist. Grabbing a black silk scarf from the side table full of equipment, Curt gagged Brian.

Brian screamed at Curt, but all that escaped was a pathetically muffled sound. As Curt began to unbutton his shirt, Brian kicked out, trying to connect with Curt's flesh.

Curt evaded Brian's flailing legs, saying, "Arthur, hand me a knife."

Brian went limp as Arthur approached with a wicked-looking blade. Curt took the knife, carefully cutting the sleeves of Brian's shirt so they could remove it while Brian remained chained. Curt ran his hand down Brian's back. "I'm sorry. I know you liked that shirt, but I'll get you another one."

Relieved that Curt hadn't cut him, Brian still glared at Curt, trying to communicate his displeasure.

Curt and Arthur looked at Brian, stretched out, ivory skin glowing in the torch light, gorgeous in bondage. Arthur stood frozen in place, afraid to touch his idol. Curt had no such fears. He wasn't sure exactly what to do, but he was hungry. He needed to taste Brian. "Arthur, how do I do it?"

Curt's question broke through Arthur's paralysis. "Just relax and kiss him, your body will know what to do. I'm right here, don't be nervous."

Willing to try, Curt fit his body against Brian's, smoothing his hand along Brian's jaw, brushing the silk gag with his thumb. Looking into Brian's terror-filled eyes, Curt murmured, "Hush -- it's okay. I love you, Brian. Trust me."

Arthur watched, fascinated by the picture of Curt nibbling and sucking on Brian's neck. It was an incredibly erotic sight. He could tell the exact moment that Curt pierced the skin and tasted Brian for the first time. A shiver rippled down Curt's naked back, and Arthur shuddered in response, feeling Curt's excitement deep within.

Brian closed his eyes, feeling Curt sucking blood from his neck. He'd thought they were lying -- wasn't sure why, but just couldn't believe what they'd said. Now, with the reality of Curt suckling at his neck, the indescribable pleasure coursing through his body, Brian let his mind drift over the possibility, the promise of a soul-deep connection, a love to last a lifetime.

Drawn irresistibly to Brian and Curt, Arthur trailed kisses across Curt's shoulder blades before circling behind Brian. He took a moment to soak up Brian's scent, unique but just as wonderful as Curt's. Then his lips touched Brian's smooth skin, tasting the faint salt-sweat of fear before the vivid salt-tang of blood burst on his tongue.

The hunger washed through Arthur, connecting him to Curt, blood-red flame licking at them both. Arthur felt more than heard Brian groan as Curt began to caress and fondle him. Arthur joined in, focusing on the perfect curves and hollows of Brian's sinuous body.

Brian squirmed beneath the dual caress, his skin ultra-sensitive. He felt a fleeting mental contact -- raw heat, a hunger for joining that he'd never felt before, the sheer intensity both fascinating and terrifying. He could feel himself changing, accepting the concept of a bond, hungering for it. He moaned his pleasure, his need.

All too soon, Arthur knew it was time to stop. Licking Brian's neck to heal the wound, Arthur flowed over to Curt, pulling him back gently. "Stop, Curt. You did beautifully, luv."

Curt reluctantly detached himself from Brian's neck. A thin trail of blood ran from the puncture wounds. Curt followed its path with his eyes, still dazed by this first taste. "I didn't want to hurt him," Curt whispered.

Arthur kissed Curt, mingling saliva and blood. "Don't worry, it will heal if you lick the wound."

Curt turned from Arthur, feeling strong arms snake around his waist. After licking Brian's neck, Curt stepped back, amazed at the sight of Brian's unblemished skin. "Wow, neat trick."

Arthur grinned into Curt's hair. "Yeah."

Stroking Brian's chest, Curt worked his hands up to the silk gag, untying it carefully. "You okay, Bri?" Now that the hunger had receded to a manageable level, he felt horrible for being so short-tempered and gagging Brian.

Brian slowly opened his eyes. He looked from Curt to Arthur then back to Curt. "Unchain me," Brian rasped.

"I'm sorry, Bri." Curt met his eyes briefly before breaking the gaze. "We can't let you leave. You're changing and we're going to need to bond soon."

"I won't leave," Brian promised. "I think -- I believe you now. I'm not exactly sure what I feel, but something is going on between us and I want to figure out what."

Arthur spoke quietly, "I think we should free him."

Nodding, Curt reached up to Brian's wrists and unlatched the manacles. Brian brought his arms down, moaning slightly as his muscles reacted to the change of position. Curt rubbed one arm and Arthur tentatively reached out for the other. When Brian didn't protest, Arthur gently kneaded the muscles.

Curt expanded his touch, caressing Brian's chest and back. "We love you, Brian. We want us to be together, bonded in a triad."

Seeing that Brian was listening, Arthur dared to speak up. "I adore you, Brian. I love your style, your honesty, your heart. I love Curt and I know he loves us. Bonding will be so wonderful. We'll never be truly alone. There will always be others to love and who love us."

Brian reached out his hand to touch Arthur's face. "I want to believe you, but I really don't know you."

Unconsciously moving into Brian's longed-for touch, Arthur murmured, "You will. Curt trusts me and he knows you. Ask him what he thinks."

Running his fingers through Arthur's hair, Brian turned to Curt, silently asking for reassurance. Curt slipped one arm around Arthur and one around Brian. "Trust us. We love you, want you to be happy, hunger for you. You have nothing to fear from Arthur. He's not going to take me away from you. He's going to give you everything he is." Curt leaned close to Brian, softly kissing his lips.

Arthur felt a spike of arousal shoot through him at the sight of Curt kissing Brian. They were so gloriously beautiful together. Feeling Curt's love for both of them wash over him through the bond, Arthur smiled, sure they had done the right thing.

Brian slowly broke the kiss, turning from Curt to Arthur. Their first kiss was hesitant but quickly blossomed into a deep open-mouthed exploration. Now it was Curt's turn to stare at the two men before him, awed by their beauty.

Awash in sensation, Brian felt the powerful attraction of Curt and Arthur. They radiated love and need and hunger, and he responded, desperately wanting to complete them. Drawing Curt closer to him and Arthur, Brian whispered, "I want to bond with you both."

Curt hugged them tightly, then bounded over to the bed, whooping in delight as he dove onto the cool silk, stretching and rolling about amidst the pillows. Arthur shook his head, turning to Brian with a grin. "He's so unbelievably sensual, isn't he?"

Brian grinned back, taking Arthur's hand and tugging him to the bed. "Yes, he definitely is."

Jumping onto the bed next to Curt, Brian began tickling his sides and stomach. Curt laughed, twisting and trying to escape the teasing touch. Arthur crawled onto the bed, not sure if he should join in. Curt rolled over, covering Arthur, laughing into his chest and tickling him. They writhed on the silk sheets, skin sliding over skin over the satin of Brian's trousers.

Curt gasped, "We need to get you naked, Brian."

Panting, Brian flopped onto his back, submitting to Curt and Arthur. "I'm all yours."

Grinning wickedly, Curt dropped to the floor between Brian's legs and began to take off Brian's shoes. Arthur shyly undid the trousers, opening them and pulling them down as Brian lifted his hips. Curt helped by pulling on the legs. Arthur was transfixed by the sight of Brian, naked and aroused on the sheets, lust-filled eyes fixed on Arthur's hard body.

Moving back onto the bed, Curt saw the wooden box Malcolm had given Arthur. Curious, he brought the box over to Arthur and Brian. "What's in here?"

Arthur shook his head. "The Creatures asked us to open it before we bonded."

Curt handed it to Arthur. "Well, go ahead," he encouraged.

Arthur carefully lifted the lid, revealing three earrings nestled in scarlet velvet. Picking up one, Arthur showed it to the others. The ring was smooth, but instead of being made of one metal, there were three -- gold, silver and copper -- interwoven together.

"Incredible," Curt breathed.

"So fitting," Arthur murmured.

"Perfect," Brian whispered.

Curt took an earring, giving it to Brian, then picked up the last one. "I love you both."

Arthur and Brian responded together, "Love you too."

Without conscious thought, Curt turned to Brian, Brian to Arthur, Arthur to Curt, putting the earrings on each other, completing the triangle of love.

Curt captured one of Brian's hands and one of Arthur's, kissing the center of Arthur's palm, then kissing Brian's inner wrist. The simple touch resonated through them, multiplying and expanding their pleasure, increasing their hunger.

"It's time," Arthur said, quivering with excitement. Looking to Curt, he asked tentatively, "How do we do this?"

Curt hugged Arthur close, kissing his soft hair. "I think it should be Brian who takes your virginity." Feeling a vague sense of unease from Arthur, Curt nipped playfully at his neck, trying to distract him. "It will be wonderful. I'll be here too."

Brian's eyes widened at the revelation, hoping he could live up to Curt and Arthur's expectations. Picking up on Arthur's slight hesitation, he opened his arms, inviting Arthur closer. "You are beautiful, Arthur. I won't hurt you, luv. Trust me to give you pleasure."

"I trust you both." Arthur's voice was strong and certain. "Enough talk, let's do it."

Curt laughed his agreement. "Yeah, let's do it."

Brian kissed Arthur's lips, pushing him down so that they were facing each other, stretched out in the center of the bed.

Curt looked around, trying to locate the lube. After finding it on the floor, he turned back, catching his breath when he saw Brian and Arthur pressed tightly together, moving sinuously against each other. "You two look fucking gorgeous together," he whispered.

Settling behind Brian, Curt efficiently slicked his cock, and then two fingers, gently worked them up Brian, enjoying Brian's rumbling purring. When Brian was ready, Curt moved behind Arthur, slowly working one finger into him, rubbing his back and murmuring reassurances while carefully adding another finger, stretching and preparing.

Brian watched Curt, touched by his gentleness and care. Arthur was pushing forward, rubbing himself against Brian's cock, and back, impaling himself on Curt's fingers. It was overwhelmingly exciting to watch and to be a part of.

Finally Curt removed his fingers, saying, "Hands and knees, Arthur."

Moaning at the lost of Curt's fingers, Arthur followed his directions, breathing in short, staccato gasps. Curt stayed by Arthur, stroking his back and holding his hand.

Brian picked up the lube, covering his cock before positioning himself behind Arthur. It was both humbling and incredibly exciting to see Arthur spread open so submissively, craving Brian's possession. Slowly Brian pressed in, careful to give him time to adjust. It took great restraint to resist simply plunging into Arthur, claiming him completely.

Arthur whimpered as Brian breached his body, trying to relax and take it all. Curt smoothed his hair, letting him tighten his hand over Curt's. Once Brian was buried fully in Arthur, he was able to let the burn of penetration metamorphose into the flames of desire. He pushed back, demanding movement.

Seeing that Arthur had accepted Brian, Curt kissed Arthur's shoulder and slipped around behind Brian. Holding onto Brian's hips, Curt thrust up him, feeling the connection between them strengthen as their bodies joined.

After a few awkward thrusts, they established a rhythm, moving together, chasing ecstasy. Brian had never felt such a combination of love and lust. He was a conduit for the energy building between them. Thrusting into Arthur, accepting Curt into himself, Brian was balanced between them, pushed to the edge of sensation.

They cried out together, passions cresting, minds and bodies entwined in love. The newly created bond pulsed strongly between them, a brilliant tangle of gold, silver and copper energy.

Exhausted yet invigorated, they curled around each other, finally complete.

*****

One by one Brian, Arthur, and Curt climbed the rickety metal ladder to the roof of the Creatures' building. When they all reached the top, they surveyed the darkening London skyline. It was a rapturous sight -- the vastness of the city that had begun as a Roman-built settlement and was now spread before them, alive with infinite potential. The Creatures were right, Arthur reflected. There was a world of possibilities out there, and he had only to reach out and take it if he so chose. And he would...with Curt and Brian at his side.

He glanced over at his bondmates, who stood at the edge of the roof, gazing silently out at the night, their hands linked. Brian turned to Arthur, beckoning him over with a smile and an outstretched hand. Arthur walked to the roof's edge. Brian and Curt's hands disentangled, and they slipped their arms around Arthur's waist. Arthur clung to both of them, reveling in their radiant heat, their delicious male scent, the memory of the coppery tang of their blood. Curt leaned into Arthur and nipped at his neck. There was a fleeting sense of delightful languor, then Curt withdrew, his tongue darting out, lapping at the torn flesh.

"Wow," Arthur murmured. "Is it always going to feel this good?"

Brian laughed aloud. "Well, according to the Creatures, it only gets better."

"Where are they, anyway?" Curt wondered.

"Their note said they'd be here at dark," Brian replied. He turned his head, looking at the western horizon and the rapidly setting sun. The cityscape sparkled, spread out below them, its light glinting off the tri-colored hoop in Brian's ear.

"Soon," Arthur said comfortably, tightening his grip on Curt and Brian. They folded themselves against him, forming an unbreakable trio.

*****

As the last light faded from the sky, there was a low humming noise that seemed to come from all around them, permeating the air with its deep, steady vibration.

A commotion from behind them prompted Curt, Arthur, and Brian to turn around. The Flaming Creatures were climbing the ladder to the roof. Laughing and seemingly talking all at once, they made their way toward the triad.

Arthur gazed at them in admiration. They looked splendid, dressed in black, adorned with feathers, spangles and glitter, their make-up impeccable, as usual. Or was it really make-up? Come to think of it, Arthur couldn't recall seeing any of them without make-up -- even in the flat.

"Arthur!" cried Ray.

"Curt!" said Billy.

"Brian!" Pearl exclaimed. "Nice to see you made it!"

"What's going on, guys?" Arthur asked. "Your note said it was important."

Malcolm chuckled. "Well, we're sorry to break up the week-long suck-and-fuckfest --"

Curt and Brian laughed, and Arthur grinned, a little abashed.

"But we had to see you," Billy said.

"You see, we're leaving," Pearl explained.

"Vacation's over," said Ray.

"It was fun, but we've got to get back home," Malcolm said.

"No!" Arthur cried, bereft. The Creatures had been his first friends in London, the first people to accept him for who he was, and now they were leaving? It wasn't fair!

"Oh, come on now, luv, we told you we were only here on vacation," Billy said softly.

"We had a great time, Arthur," Ray purred.

"But we can't stay," Pearl murmured regretfully.

"Finding you was wonderful." Billy smiled.

"We're so happy we helped you find your bondmates," Malcolm said, grinning.

The low humming increased in volume and intensity, and suddenly there was a light above them. Curt, Brian, and Arthur looked up, squinting into the brilliance hanging over their heads.

It was a round, glowing disk, huge, and lovely almost beyond description, a million tiny lights throwing off a million tiny beams of incandescence, as if all the stars in the galaxy had been compressed into one circular space.

"Wow," Curt said softly.

Brian was awestruck. "That's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen," he whispered. "It's like --"

"-- a dream," finished Arthur.

"That's our ride, boys," said Malcolm. "Time for us to go."

"Wait!" Arthur cried.

"What is it, luv?"

"What happens now?" Arthur asked uncertainly.

Malcolm gave the trio a wide, mischievous grin. "Anything you want."

"You three are going to be together for a very long time," said Billy.

"Start enjoying yourselves," Ray suggested.

"You can stay in the public eye for a good number of years," added Pearl.

"But we'd recommend dropping out of sight before people start to whisper about how you never change," Malcolm instructed.

"To the world's eyes even plastic surgery can't keep you young forever," Billy added.

"You won't have to worry about that for a long time, though," said Ray.

Malcolm stepped forward and touched the trio's earrings in turn. "Be well," he said softly.

"How can we thank you?" asked Curt. "This is such an incredible gift --" Impulsively Curt took hold of Brian and Arthur's hands, physically connecting them just as they were bonded in blood.

"There is a way," Malcolm replied seriously.

"There are people everywhere who are afraid to be what they want to be," Pearl said sadly.

"People who can't dream for one reason or another," Ray agreed.

"Like me," Arthur whispered.

"Like you used to be," Malcolm corrected.

"You can help them -- maybe not all of them, but if a kiss or a touch or a song lyric inspires some to dream --" Pearl said.

"Then that's thanks enough." Ray smiled.

"We all live on dreams, you know," said Billy.

Curt, Brian, and Arthur nodded. It was true. It had to be true. How else could all of this have happened?

"We'd better go, guys," Ray said.

"Yeah, they're waiting," Pearl grinned.

"Will we ever see you again?" Arthur asked.

"Maybe," Malcolm replied with a smile. "Maybe you will."

The Flaming Creatures stepped back. The disk hovering over them seemed to pulse faintly, and suddenly the Creatures were bathed in a scintillating haze of glitter. There was light everywhere, it seemed, enveloping Curt, Brian and Arthur in its sparkling luminescence.

Arthur, Brian, and Curt clutched each other tightly, awed and humbled by the spectacle in front of them. The Creatures smiled at the trio as the dazzling aureole around them grew brighter and brighter. All at once the light was gone, as were the Creatures.

Curt, Arthur, and Brian stood on the roof, arms wound around one another, looking up into the velvet darkness of the sky.

*****

That night a drifting rain began to fall, the water droplets twinkling like stars falling to earth. The rain fell everywhere. It fell on a Russian farm, where a boy sat on his front steps. He looked up, his face tilting to catch the rain as it fell, and he smiled, full of hope.

It fell in the Nevada desert, where a young soldier examined the sky, thinking of the odd lights he'd seen. He looked over at his comrade, staring up as well. When their glances met there was a tentative spark, and true love was born.

It fell in Berlin, where a woman stood by the Wall, alone, the rain streaking down her face, making her think of angels' wings. She gently placed a flower next to the Wall and walked away, her soul at peace. It spattered on rooftops, on windows, on doorsteps.

And dreamers everywhere looked to the skies with upturned faces and believed, the rain falling down on them, sparkling and beautiful.