Isn’t That Wonderful?
October 15th 2010
Dean marched back and forth in the apartment, a mix of excitement and nerves. He asked Jamie to meet him there before they headed out, Jamie assumed this was out in town. Dean had made other plans.
It was Jamie’s 25th birthday. Dean was taking him to Paris. This is where he would do it. Come clean.
He needed to tell Jamie how he really felt. These feelings were too big not to share anymore.
He’d do it at the Love Lock Bridge tonight. He knew this was it for him. He’d found his soul mate.
They couldn’t be more different. But he felt like he was drowning. He had to tell Jamie. So he could take a gasp of breath again.
Typical, Jamie interrupted his thoughts. Chaos at the door. Dean couldn’t wait to let it in.
“Hey! How are you? Christ it’s getting cold out. There you are. I’ve looked forward to that face all day. I’ve had such a busy day, typical, you ask me to finish early and boom, busy!” Jamie swung through the door and embraced him.
“Hello, look, will you come sit down?” Dean deliberately tried to come across as despondent, he wanted to throw Jamie off as much as he could. He knew it would send Jamie spiralling momentarily but short term pain to what would be hopefully long term gain.
Dean took the lead this time. Jamie resisted a little then went with him to the sofa. Jamie sat in a recoil, he was scared. It was heartbreaking to watch him but Dean couldn’t help but laugh internally, just a little.
“Dean, what’s wrong? What have I done? I’m sorry. I…” Jamie started rocking.
“Look, I know it’s your birthday but I need to go to Paris tonight. I know it’s your birthday. Im sorry, I’m seeing someone.” He paused to draw out the anguish a little. Jamie swallowed and stiffened. Dean looked away. “He’s this incredible guy. He’s wild, he’s sexy, he has an alter ego called JJ.” Dean started laughing and couldn’t finish his rehearsed riddle as Jamie’s eye widened with realisation.
He leapt on him. “Don’t do that to me again you, you beautiful soul! You know I can’t handle you doing that! Thank you so much Archer. You’re so generous. I don’t deserve this or you.” He kissed Dean with everything he had.
Dean pulled them up to sit. “Yeah you do. I don’t deserve such a complex, fun, impossibly brilliant boy like you. You’ll go with me then? I’ve arranged it all, I hope you like it. Happy birthday.”
“Let me think.” Jamie pretended to be distant for a moment. Placing a curled index finger under his chin. “Yeah, that works, let’s go!” Jamie jumped up like a child on Christmas Day.
“Good. One more thing. Will you sit down for a fucking minute?” Dean felt like he’d been smiling for weeks.
“Ok, what? What?” Jamie tapped Dean’s thigh with impatience.
“It’s nothing special but I want you to have this.” Dean produced a box wrapped in maroon paper with a navy bow. When choosing, he felt like these colours were perfect for them. He saw the shades and thought of him and Jamie. Deep, strong, beautiful, meant to be together.
“Can I open it now?” Jamie shook. Eyes bulging.
“Of course. Don’t get too excited honestly but I just wanted you to have it.” Dean rubbed Jamie’s neck.
“Mmm I like it when you do that.” Jamie scrambled to open the paper. Stopping a moment. “How beautiful are these colours together? They’re like deep, strong, beautiful, like they’re meant to be together or something.”
Dean pulled Jamie’s head to his lip and smiled. He thought he might cry but swallowed the happy tears deep down. “Yep.”
Jamie read the message atop the key.
‘Jamie Arden,
You came crashing into my world and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I want your world to be a part of mine. You belong here, you belong everywhere with me. I understand. You’re safe. This key unlocks my world and makes it yours.
DA.’
Jamie’s lip quivered and he wiped a tear away. “Dean, this is so thoughtful. I thought long ago I’d never find someone who would accept me. Thank you so much. But, are you trusting me with a key to your home in Notting Hill? No roommates, IT consultant, 29, with the help of bank of mum and dad?”
Dean laughed heartily. “Yes you idiot. Gladly. Come and go as you please. I’m closer for work anyway. I know you love your place so it’s up to you but this place can be yours when you want it. Hey, you don’t need to cry.” Dean did his thing with Jamie’s chin. Jamie’s eyes were big and vulnerable.
“Ok, thank you. I mean it. Sorry. Knowing someone wants me when I’ve been through years of being just a bit of fun for men, I didn’t think I’d ever find this, someone like you. You make me so happy, Archer.”
“Well, fuck them. I want you. That’s what matters now. Just make sure you lock the door whenever you leave and please, for the love of god, put dishes in the dishwasher ok?” Dean squeezed him.
“I will. I’ll keep your home clean and tidy. Like you are. You’re clean and tidy. I’m clean, just a little less tidy. I’m sorry for that.” Jamie slumped. Dean pulled him in and kissed his head again. “You’re perfect so again, please shut up. Normal is fucking boring remember?” Jamie gave out a giggle then leapt up. “I need to grab a bag of clothes for the weekend!” His love of clothes always a source of stress and passion.
“Well, are you happy to do that while I finish up here? Oh by the way, no taxi for us, I’ve booked a car to take us to the executive lounge in the airport. We’ll be in Paris for a late dinner and a walk if that sounds good to you?” Dean kissed his forehead.
“My gosh, you’ve thought of everything. Anything else you want to tell me?” Jamie smiled brightly at him.
“Uh no, I’m good.” Dean laughed with trepidation at what he will be saying this evening.
Jamie left for the tube, skipping down the street.
TRIX: Oi oi, nightmare! What are we doing this weekend of your birthday?
LARS: Hey bitch, birthday plans? Or are you getting railed by your man? Lucky boy!
GABBY: First birthday in years and you’re quiet. I can probably guess why. Enjoy my boy. You deserve all the happiness, my love. Tell me what’s going on though, I’m excited to live my relationship life vicariously through you at this point. Xx
Jamie replied to the group chat they were all on while he was walking to the station.
JAMIE: Hi gang. Dean is taking me to Paris tonight. My birthday surprise, on way back to mine to pack like fuck. I’ve been given a key to his apartment too. I need you all to meet him, when we’re back I’ll sort it. He’s magnificent. I’m so happy I feel sick. Hope you’re ok with me being MIA this weekend. I’ll send photos! Xx
LARS: Sex in Paris. Enjoy! Seriously though, have a wonderful time.
TRIX: Fuck yes! Now we’re talking! He’s so perfect Jamie, then again, so are you. So happy for you both, what a guy!
GABBY: Oh fuck off this is too much. I’m nearly crying. This is so bloody cute. Enjoy babe, you’re our little ball of sunshine. Xx
Jamie smiled and ran his thumb over his friends messages. He needed to invest more time in them when he was back he decided.
“Hey H. Free to talk?” Dean gave Harry a quick ring. He was his wingman after all.
“Hello dear. I’m in between meetings but of course. All the time in the world for you.” Harry spoke with his usual drawl.
“I just wanted to say thank you for hooking me up with the driver and car. I just want to make this weekend special for him. I feel so much for him it hurts. I can’t explain.” Dean sat rigid on the end of the sofa.
“I can. You love him. Simple.” Harry had a way of delivering the most powerful words as if he was ordering a coffee. Dean blurted out a laugh. “Ok over there baby boy?”
“Uh yeah. Harry, you’re right. I love him. Is it too soon? I feel like I might get rejected again. Send him running into the city never to be seen again. I want to tell him tonight. Tell me I’m doing the right thing. I trust you with my life.” Dean’s hand gripped his knee.
“Of course it’s the right thing, billions of people in this world, most of them on the fucking tube in this city and you find this boy. Dean, it’s never too soon. Why wait? It’s rare. Enjoy it. I don’t think I have the energy you do for him from what you’ve told me, but you’re wonderful together. He’s cute as a button.” Harry softened and laughed. “D, you’re in love. Isn’t that wonderful? I will say, you need to look after him. He’s a fragile thing from what you tell me, a beautiful fragile thing. You’re dating a vase, D.” They both laughed over the phone.
“Thanks H. He is, well speaking of household objects, I’ve also given him a key to my place.” Dean went on.
“Christ, really? Good luck. He’s a nutter isn’t he? Put everything expensive and dear to you in storage right now.” Harry teased.
“He’s ok. He’s different here. He calms down quickly. Plus we’ve had some of the best nights ever here. If you know what I mean. His place is smaller, further out. He’s never in anyway so it doesn’t matter I suppose.” Dean laughed at the fact it was easier to track Jamie down through the Find My app, they agreed to share locations recently, than to assume he’s at home because he never was unless it was to change or sleep when he wasn’t at Dean’s.
“Dean. Are you going to ask him to move in?” Harry seemed to shift.
“Not just yet. I’m dropping the L word tonight. Maybe in a couple of weeks. I want to ask him formerly though. Make a point of marking the occasion.
“I’ve never seen you this happy. In previous relationships you’ve always been a little held back. You just go with Jamie’s chaos. Have a brilliant weekend, don’t forget us though, maybe we’ll go out next week. Better still, keep next weekend open, I’m putting on a little gathering for us and him. We need to meet properly, we only met once. Let’s have him in a less crazy space and all get to know your love. Love you Dean, bye.” Harry went. Dean pressed his phone to his heart. He counted his lucky stars to have Harry in his life.
DEAN: Not that I have to tell you, but wear something smart to fly and ready to go for the evening. I’m leaving now, be with you in half an hour. X
Jamie ‘love hearted’ the message. Dean rubbed his phone screen and smiled.
Dean wore a charcoal suit, black shirt with no tie and his favourite smart Derby shoes. He looked in the mirror and actually felt sexy. He finally felt what Jamie always told him, before he brushed off the compliment as nonsense. Jamie made him feel this way. He couldn’t wait to be in bed with him tonight. He wanted him, hard. He cupped his hand over his crotch, stealing a moment to himself. His cock grew slightly.
Notting Hill to Primrose Hill
DEAN: I’m downstairs. Come on, let’s go to Paris. X
Jamie came down the stairs from his building, in a light grey suit and a black roll neck cashmere jumper. The Prada’s were making their appearance again. Jamie stood for a moment. A sleek gun metal stretched Mercedes S500 was burbling in front of his building. All bright lights and shiny metal. The driver got out.
“Mr Arden? I’m yours and Mr Archer’s driver this evening. Ron. Pleased to meet you. Can I pop the suitcase in the back of the car for you?” Ron was in full chauffeur garb. Jamie’s smile widened.
“Thank you Ron. I love your uniform. So smart.” Jamie went to the door as Ron opened it. “You’re very gracious Mr Arden. Thank you.” He didn’t have a second before two big hands pulled him in. “Hello big boy.” He grinned.
Dean didn’t speak, he didn’t have anything to say right now, he just wanted Jamie. He kissed him hard and hands were everywhere.
Jamie broke away. “Dean you look so fucking sexy.” He whispered.
Dean darted his eyes to the privacy glass that separated them from Ron. His eyes were full of hunger. He traced them back to Jamie heavily.
“Suck my cock.” Dean whispered as he grabbed Jamie by the back of the head. Jamie smiled and slipped down to Dean’s crotch. Dean noticed, even on his knees in a German limousine, Jamie managed elegance.
“We’ll be at the airport in 30 minutes traffic going well.” Ron said over the speaker.
“Yeah good, thanks Ron.” Dean blurted, trying to hide his lust. “You heard him, get going babe.” He brought his hand to Jamie’s head, lightly, urging him on.
Jamie took him in his mouth. He growled at the fatness of Dean’s cock. He dove up and down as Dean clawed above. He grabbed at Dean’s trousers pulling them slightly, he wanted to explore more, slipping his tongue into the crease of Dean’s behind. Dean took to frantically jerking himself.
“Shit babe, keep doing that. You’re going to make me bust.” Dean manhandled Jamie, getting more assertive. Jamie rolled his eyes in acceptance.
“You can’t mess that suit up babe.” Jamie released himself and swallowed Dean again, the rush of the load hit his throat. He choked down a gag. They were going to Paris after all, any unsavoury noises above kissing and heavy breath just wouldn’t do. Gagging isn’t chic.
Jamie slumped back on his knees, wedged in front of Dean and cleaned his shaft. “You enjoy that babe? Mmm”
“Fuck yes. Sorry I was so hot for you. Get up here.” Dean pulled him to his lap. “Let me eat you out. I’ve got to get you there too.” Jamie laughed and lay next to him, pulling his trousers round his behind.
“No underwear?” Dean winked.
“Let’s be honest, I didn’t think I’d need any tonight. Get your face down there. It’s the best feeling.” Jamie demanded. Dean chuckled and dove his tongue below. He swirled his tongue as Jamie guided him, then, Dean slipped his forefinger inside Jamie. “Oh god yes, keep going. Keep going.” Jamie braced himself. He could feel himself about to erupt. “Dean!”
The shout was uncontrolled but they lost themselves, forgetting there was company just the other side of the glass. Dean dived over Jamie’s cock and took the load in his mouth greedily.
“We’re doing that again. That was incredible.” Jamie got up and tidied himself up. “If that’s what a suit does to you, wear them all the time.” He grinned, opening his phone camera to check his appearance, stroking his hair back into position. “I love your cock babe. So huge.” Jamie kept peering into his phone, like he was saying something completely mundane.
Dean proudly laughed. “Thanks, well it’s all yours when you want it.” Dean wiggled his softening shaft.
“Put that away. We’re going to Paris you beast.” Jamie laughed at his quip. Dean joined in as he tidied himself up.
The Flight
Two hours later they boarded the flight. Dean laughed, being as quiet as he could. He couldn’t believe it, Jamie slept as soon as they took off. He came to realise, Jamie had so much energy all the time, when sleep came, he couldn’t battle with it, he had to let it take over. Many a night at the apartment, Dean had to carry or wake him for bed. He never felt it a chore. He thought it was the most adorable flaw.
Dean studied him for the first 30 minutes of the flight. He even slept beautifully. Closed mouth in a slight grin, soft eye lids, lashes that had a natural curl. His skin, a tan that must have come from heritage, he was olive all over. Dusted with sun light regardless of season. Dean’s beacon among everything.
Dean put his head next to Jamie’s face. The little puffs of breath in his ear, he sang inside.
Sleep came to Dean within 20 minutes of landing. Jamie woke up. He opened his eyes and looked over at Dean. He could have cried at how this handsome and intelligent man could possess such a big heart and the broad mindedness to accept him for who he was. No judgement, just letting him be.
Jamie was fascinated by Dean’s face. He was masculine but he could tell emotions had played out on that face. His eyes, closed now but they were big, blue, consuming, Jamie made a promise to never let a tear fall unless from joy from those eyes because of him.
His stubble, rough and sensual but a shield against the world. Dean could be hurt too, he decided he would never intentionally hurt this precious being. Protect him. Dean Archer needed that too.
His lips. Those lips. Plump and moreish. Jamie thought about all the wonderful words that had spilled from them, how he noticed despite appearances, Dean would bite his lip when he thought he wasn’t looking, overthinking and making sure everything was perfect. He told Dean by a look at his beautiful head in that quiet moment, don’t worry Future Boy, you are perfect so everything you do is.
Jamie softly reached a hand up to Dean’s cheek. He just wanted contact. He decided he’d tell him tonight. At the Love Lock Bridge.
Dean jolted up. “Shit did I fall asleep?” He rubbed his eyes, now red and puffy. Jamie melted at Dean’s morning face. He had no awareness of how amazing he looked when he woke. Messy hair, clumsy eyes, searching hands. No day starts without a bear hug from his big boy in bed. They were becoming more and more common place as the days went on. I want to move in with him, the thought lit a flame in Jamie’s chest.
“You did. We’re in Paris.” Jamie smiled and held the moment he was alone with his sleeping Dean Archer in his heart and locked it away for safe keeping.
