Darren Hayes looked around the room and sighed. He was only halfway finished unpacking his two large suitcases, mostly filled with his clothes. He glanced at the huge pile on his bed and the open wardrobe with pieces of clothing carelessly stashed into it. He was tired, no, plain exhausted really and there was nothing more than he wanted to do than to to just hide under the bed covers and go to blissful sleep. How beautiful would that be. He smiled as he slowly stroked his luxurious silk blankets. Worth the thousand bucks, he thought to himself. Every night was a luxury with these blankets.

He slumped down in the black velvet chair. He loved black velvet, so a lot of his clothes and furniture were made up from the material. Putting his head in his hands, he closed his eyes and tried to clear his thoughts. He could feel his temples starting to throb once again. Damn, was another headache on it's way? He swallowed nervously to himself. Tomorrow he had to go to this little get-together, sort of a 'welcome home' party at the Jones' place. It was all Mrs. Jones' idea. Did Daniel have any idea about what's going on? Of course he would, stupid. His mum would tell him alright. And then...and then... And then what? He shuddered at the thought of how Daniel would react to the news. I didn't tell him I was coming back home. I told everyone else but him. He knew he would make Daniel feel terribly upset and hurt, but he just couldn't help it. And all these past few months or so...it had been hard for him, for both of them really. That was why he had to go to New York, as far away a possible from him and everything else. He had to get away from it all or he would go frightfully mad.

That was the main reason why he had been so cold towards him. He had strong feelings for Daniel, stronger than any other emotion he had ever experienced. Of course, when he had first discovered this, he was shocked and horrified. More than horrified, he was overcome with shame. At that time, he was still together with his beloved Colby, whom he had planned to start a family soon and spend the rest of his days with. How could he, Darren Stanley Hayes, have such lustful and intense feelings of love towards his best friend in the whole world and musical partner in the phenomenally successful Savage Garden?? It was torture. Feelings of guilt racked his brain whenever he was with Colby. He hated himself for fantasizing about Daniel. He hated himself even more when he pretended he was making love to him whenever he was making love to Colby. And he was disgusted. Though he wasn't homophobic in any way, he couldn't get over how he was falling in love with another man. He couldn't bear to be around Daniel anymore, for the temptation would be too great. Whenever he saw Daniel around near him, his heart would start beating hard and mixed emotions would overwhelm him. He was scared to death he might accidentally make a pass at him, so thrilled was he by his presence. It was especially torturous when Daniel would rest his hand on him, flash one of his sexy smiles at him, or whisper intimately in his ear. He felt like dying, because he couldn't show Daniel how much he really cared, how much he truly, madly, deeply loved him with all his heart. He knew he and Daniel had a pretty exceptional relationship before, and that no-one in the world could ever take his place. Even Colby, whom he had stilled loved so much, was nowhere near as Daniel. It was like they were meant to be, they knew each other so well, inside out, it was almost a claustrophobic friendship.

That friendship would never be the same again and he knew it. Not when he was so magnetically attracted to Daniel like this. It was the main reason why he built a strong sturdy wall around himself, to protect his vulnerable feelings. There was no way in the world he was going to confess his feelings to Daniel, even if it killed him. Daniel was already in a good, solid relationship with a woman, Michelle. Earlier this year, they had announced their engagement and Darren was determined not to get in the way of things. It didn't matter that he was twisting and turning painfully inside, trying desperately to fight off these horrid thoughts and feelings about him, but as long as Daniel was happy, that was all that mattered. Poor Daniel, didn't know what hit him when I suddenly cut him right out of my life, he thought sadly. Daniel, who had thought he didn't want him anymore, how heartbreaking it was to see those puppy-dog eyes fill with tears. Daniel, who was so deeply concerned about his friend and wouldn't give up pestering him, no matter how much he threw hurtful retorts back at him. But Jonesy, there was a good reason. I'm doing this for your own good. You must understand. But how could Daniel understand if he didn't know what was going on in the first place?

He was dreading tomorrow. He knew for certain that he would see Daniel then, and he would have to offer him a reasonable explanation. Hopefully, Daniel would be in a good mood. Darren felt his eyelids grow heavier by the minute. No, he mustn't fall asleep just yet, he had to finish unpacking...

He woke up with a start. Yawning, he slowly got up and turned to the front door. Who on earth would that be? At this hour? He switch on the light in the hallway. The doorbell outside rang impatiently once again.

"Alright, alright, hold your horses," he muttered as he unlocked the bolt inside and pulled it open.

And there, was Daniel outside, looking equally as shocked as he was. He was wearing a tight blue Gaultier top and stretchy black cashmere pants. His hair had been recently trimmed, giving his face a more angular shape. His sharp dark eyes met with his own penetrating grey blue ones.

The two stared at each other for a moment.

"Hello Daz," Daniel finally spoke, his voice icy and smooth. Even though he was happy to see him again, he still could not forget his anger. He tried to hold it in.

Darren was looking at him up and down. He's eyes seemed to glaze over his form. He smiled faintly, with a touch of embarrassment. "Hi", he softly whispered, trying to steadily hold his gaze. Inside, he was trembling. Oh Lord, Daniel why are you here? He sensed the quiet resentment in him, the silent outrage, and it made him feel even more depressed than ever. I'm sorry Jonesy...I'll explain...one day...

Another moment of uncomfortable silence. Oh God, say something!

Daniel looked at his friend squarely in the eye. It's going to be one long night, one hell of a night, Daz. He was determined to find out the truth about him. Unsmilingly, he asked in the same acid voice, "May I come in?"

Darren silently nodded and opened the door further to let him in. He could distinctly catch the faint, lingering smell of Daniel's favourite perfume as he roughly went past him. Ah, it was just all so familiar. He was glad to be home, to be around the people he knew and loved. Loved. What a joke.

They didn't say a word as they both entered the spacious living room. The polished grand piano stood in the center, poised and majestic. Though Darren didn't even know how to play the beautiful instrument, he spent a fortune on it, claiming he needed 'something to fill up space.' Well, it did fill up a lot of space in the elegantly furnished living room, with it's warm peachy walls and fluffy soft peachy carpet. Pale peach. It was practically the attire of the entire house.

Daniel settled down on the deep brown leather sofa, finding it to be very agreeable and cosy indeed. He immediately relaxed into it, enjoying the smooth cool leather against his skin. He was so comfortable, he started to feel a little drowsy. Resting his head in his hand, he looked up expressionlessly at Darren, who stood motionless a little away. Carefully, he slid his eyes over him. Short cropped dyed black hair, large liquid-looking eyes encircled with long lashes, his pale white skin...always so sickly white...and those lips. They looked so soft, so delicately formed. Sensuous even. And wouldn't they feel so velvety if I run my fingers over them? He slipped his eyes down onto his body. Medium height but still a justifiable muscular build, under the tight black shirt and those dusky blue satin pants. He had a way of moving his body. Slow and purposeful. Yes, that's what it was. Provocatively physical.

And now that body was seductively moving towards him. Darren had handed him a drink. Jolting himself out of his daze, he stared back at the perfectly symmetrical face. What in God's name had I been thinking?! Darren?? He shook his head briskly, suddenly feeling somewhat dizzy.

Darren had caught the blond man scanning him cautiously. He blushed faintly as he handed Daniel a can of coke. Daniel had never eyed him that way before...it seemed like he was marvelling at the sight of him. A sudden rush of excitement pulsed through him before he forcibly pushed it away, annoyed. He's not like that, you idiot. He's just looking at you as a normal everyday person would, that's all. Nothing more. Stop imagining things. But still, he couldn't help but wonder why he was gazing at him like that...at his face, at his body...

He warily sat down on the other side of the leather couch, making sure there was distance between them. Crossing his legs gracefully, he turned his concentrated dark eyes on him. Daniel's tall slender frame was poised serenely and openly. Ah, he was always the calm one. Always so placid. And so innocent. His blunt cut of golden brown hair gleamed in the light overhead.

Daniel took a sip of his drink. "Daz," he started, "We need to talk."

Darren's eyes remained on his hands and didn't say anything. Daniel continued.

"Come on Darren, spit it out. Something's obviously very wrong with you and you're keeping it to yourself. You've been acting like you're dead to the real world! Please, open up and let us help you. We're all so concerned about you..."

He sat still for a minute, then spoke, choosing his words carefully.

"Dan, of all people, you should know what's been up. My marriage is over. We've already contacted our lawyers and the divorce papers are arriving soon." It was half the truth. Colby had been on his mind a lot lately.

"You've only been apart for a few months! Couldn't you have waited a bit more, see if maybe you two can settle things out with a little more time?"

"You don't understand. There's absolutely no chance of reconciliation for either of us. We've got too many problems to work out." And a lot of them has to do with you, he silently added. He couldn't just casually add, "Uh yeah, it's 'cos I don't love her as I love you!"

"Then let us help you! Don't turn your back on us! Why do you keep it silent? We hate seeing you hurting like this!"

"You'd help me a lot more if you would just leave me in peace! I'm fine the way I am!" Darren snapped, flashing his menacing eyes at him. Shut up. Shut up, shut up, shut up! Just leave me alone!

Daniel slammed the can down on the table in frustration and got up. He couldn't believe the dark-haired man was still as stubborn and defiant than ever.

"Dammit Darren, you chuck a wobbly here and there and make other people's lives miserable and you just don't care, don't you? Sulking around and losing that blasted temper of yours every five minutes, it's a bloody wonder why we still think of you at all!" He was beginning to raise his voice now.

Darren also stood up, Daniel's words stinging his face as if he slapped him. He could feel his temples throbbing very badly now. "Shut your trap up or I do you in, you irritating busybody! Always sticking your nose in where it's not wanted. Why I-"

"You inconsiderate little bastard! I've been spending all my precious bloody time agonizing over you and here you go, throwing back all I've done for you right in my face! You're the biggest son of a bitch, Darren Stanley Hayes and I'm sick and tired of it! " Daniel knew he was losing control, but he couldn't stop himself. He was shouting all these ugly things at Darren because he was so outraged. Never before had he felt so hot under the collar.

P>That last statement did it. Darren couldn't believe how fast his hands moved, how he grabbed the small lamp next to him and hurled it at Daniel at lightening speed, who didn't realize what was going on until it was too late. Undefended, it hit him in the right shoulder with a loud shattering crash, splinters of the glass cutting his flesh and splattering all over the floor. Daniel gave out a sharp cry, paralyzed for a moment as the pain throbbed through his body. He took one more look at Darren, the revulsion glinting in his baleful eyes, and lunged at him, his hands balling into fists. He punched and kicked wherever he could, wincing now and again as Darren striked him back with his powerful hands. Yelps of pain were heard as the two men grunted and groaned, trying to knock each other out.

"How dare you call me a bastard! Here's a taste of your own medicine!" Darren hissed and with that, the slammed Daniel hard in the stomach with his knee. So won't you break me, shake me, take me over, when the madness stops, then you will be alone...

Daniel howled in agony as he feebly sank to the floor on his knees, holding his stomach protectively. He was coughing uncontrollably, his lungs gasping for air. Hell, is this really happening? Please let this be a nightmare! But he knew this was real, the piercing pain in his stomach and chest was unbearable. Was Darren really that strong? He coughed hoarsely again and suddenly felt hot liquid welling up in his throat. He wiped his mouth quickly with his hand and looked at it, still coughing loudly Blood. He was coughing up blood by the mouthful and he started to choke. Oh God, help me...

Darren had been too stunned to do anything as he saw Daniel sink to floor, in a lot of obvious pain. To his horror, he commenced to cough in the most frightening way and didn't stop, even when the blood poured out of his mouth, over his hand and dripping on the clean carpet. His heart stopped as it dawned on him the first time of what he had done. Jonesy....my poor Jonesy... Ignoring the fiery pain in his legs and arms where Daniel had got him, he rushed to the kneeling man, who was still spluttering out blood.

"My God, Daniel..." he whispered as he snatched a handful of napkins off the table and proceed to wipe his face gently. Daniel was feeling extremely weak and light-headed and knew he would soon pass out. The taste of blood in his mouth and throat was nauseating him, fearing he would throw up any moment.

Darren had tears streaming down his cheeks, leaving messy tracks on his smooth face, as he continued to wipe away the blood from Daniel's mouth. He put his hand on the side of his face and lovingly stroked it. "I'm so sorry..." he murmured softly. His eyes met with Daniel's, who was looking back at him without any emotion. He really hates me now, he cried to himself silently, and I deserve it. Tenderly, he placed his arm around the other man's shoulders to support his frail frame and slowly pushed him up to stand. A new wave of giddiness hit him, sending him crashing to the floor again, moaning. He couldn't speak, his vocal cords were constricted.

Darren lifted him up once again, this time keeping a firm hold on him so he wouldn't fall for the second time. Daniel hesitantly leaned on him, unsure and confused of what was going to happen next. Was Darren going to do something worse? How he truly detested him at that moment for kicking him like that! But he was in so much discomfort he didn't want to argue anymore.

Darren felt as if someone had taken a large kitchen knife and plunged it through his heart. Well, that's what he wanted to do to himself right this very minute anyway. How could he be so cruel? So vicious as to injure poor Daniel this way? You're a bloody fool, Daz. If I were him now, I'd kick your guts out and finish you off. Cursing himself, he led his friend slowly to the bedroom. Still holding on tight to him, he used his elbow to switch on the light.

The room was just as he left it, clothes here and there all over the place. He shoved all items off the spacious four-poster, king size bed before helping Daniel to lie down. Colby had loved this bed, it was her favourite because it was so nice and warm and... Be quiet. Now's not the time. Slipping of the other man's dirty shoes, he was relieved that Daniel wasn't hurt too bad and hadn't fainted. If he did, well, he'd have to call the ambulance, wouldn't he, and that just killed him to even think about it. You idiot, stupid, stupid idiot. How could you do such a thing?!

Daniel settled back on the silk blankets, resting his damp head on the fluffy, feather-filled pillows. His dizziness was slowly ebbing away and he was thankful he had not lost consciousness. However, the probing pain in his stomach had not lessened and every slight move he made would be like a million razor pricks cutting through his body.

Sitting down next to him, Darren noticed a dark stain on his shirt, right where he threw the lamp at him. His eyes grew wide with fear. "Shit!" he whispered angrily to himself as he got up to get some towels from the bathroom. Daniel turned his head to look at the wound. It ached greatly to move his right arm now and it was numb and heavy, like a huge lead had been placed on it.

Darren came back quietly and placed himself down next to him, with towels and the First Aid kit box in his arms. It seemed stupidly funny for a second that he was going to finally use it, but he knew that now was definitely not the time for laughing. They had been unspeaking to each other all this time now and the soundless night was ringing in his ears. He felt so ashamed, hating himself of what he had done, wanting to sob right there in front of Daniel and beg for his forgiveness. But he didn't know what on earth to actually say to man, who was calmly staring up at the high ceiling, his normally emphatic eyes showing no emotion.

"Daniel?" he finally asked him tentatively. "Do you mind if I take off your shirt? I have to stop the bleeding on your shoulder."

Daniel's eyes flickered over to him. He licked his dry lips. Why not? Why the damn hell not?

Darren sensed that he meant yes, so very carefully, he started unbuttoning his rumpled shirt. He could feel Daniel's chest steadily rising up and down, his breath on his fingers and his eyes boring down at him. He felt uncomfortable in his scrutinizing gaze. What is going on in that mind of his, just lying there and staring...jeez, it's beginning to scare me! He quickly stole a glance at him and saw that he still had his eyes fixed on him, though not in an angry way. I'm sorry...how many times do I have to say it? Please say something...anything...

Daniel was watching him with a kind of wonder, the savage fury inside him dissolving. Darren's fingers on his chest gave him queer tingling sensations, which wasn't at all unpleasant in the least. It actually felt nice really, his soft fingers tapping along, down each button one by one... Daniel's eye's grew wider as he caught himself once again. My God! It's happening again - here I go thinking such ridiculous thoughts...absolutely ridiculous thoughts... And yet, they somehow didn't feel ridiculous. It was only when the logical, intellectual part of him took over that they started to look freaky. Now the dark-haired man was taking off the shirt, sliding it off his shoulders. He winced as he felt the cold air touch the wound.

"I'll be gentle, I promise," Darren whispered, feeling the shame and disgust once again as he saw the oozing gash. He picked up a small damp towel which he had soaked in water before, and painstakingly pressed it against the open cut. Daniel sucked in his breath sharply, indicating it was stinging him immensely, but he didn't say anything. Darren then continued to wipe clean all off the blood, making sure he wasn't exerting any pressure which would cause more pain. He was just as glad that no dangerous piece of glass was embedded, for that would have been torture. After that, using small make-up cotton balls, he applied disinfectant to wash away any nasty bacteria. He finished off with wrapping a large bandage over his shoulder, covering the now clean shoulder very well.

Daniel had been watching him mutely all this time, never taking his eyes off Darren, who was hating himself more and more every moment. He turned to face him after everything had been done.

"There. Are you feeling better? Do you want anything else?"

Daniel shook his head. He was feeling sleepy now, the night had worn him out. He closed his eyes.

Darren noiselessly put away the used towels and other equipment and settled back into the bed, lying on his side with his arm propped up against his head and faced the blond man. He glanced at his watch. Half-past two in the morning. He wasn't tired in the least, he was greatly troubled by the event that had happened. Watching Daniel, he saw the smooth contours outlining the exquisite, thin face and the peaceful expression. He loved his beauty, he was just so elegantly handsome. And how he longed to tell him that.

He lightly touched his shoulder, the one which wasn't hurt. "Daniel? Are you awake? Please, we need to talk."

We need to talk. Daniel flashed open his eyes. Isn't that what I came here for in the first place? He fixed his gaze on the ceiling again.

Darren examined him closely, feeling the familiar lump forming in his throat. He tried to stabilized his voice, which was on the verge of completely breaking down. "Listen, I really am sorry about all this. I know, my temper is a terror at times and I loathed myself for it. I just don't know what came over me. Believe me, I...I would never hurt you for the world, Daniel."

Gradually, Daniel turned to him, also heaving himself up on his good arm on his side. He was now only inches apart from Darren's haggarded-looking face, skin creased with distress.

'"I'm not mad at you anymore," he breathed, almost sensuously. Darren's hypnotic soul-penetrating eyes were mesmerising him. Indeed, he was a divine looking creature, a cherubic-faced little boy. Daniel didn't know what was happening to him, only that all of sudden feeling, he felt an electrifying attraction towards this man. He noticed how finely featured this face before him and how it made his heart beat faster. Shivers of balmy passion tingled through his spine. He shifted closer, the only sound he could hear was his own breathing.

Darren was rigidly inert next to him, not daring to move a single muscle. He could feel Daniel's breath against his cheek, he was so so near him. Their eyes, their noses and their lips were only centimetres apart. And Daniel was...well, shirtless. His hairless naked chest looked so very inviting. Never before had they been this intimate. He closed his eyes, feeling chills dancing around in his insides. Daniel, what are you doing?

Before Daniel knew what he was doing, he moved towards Darren's petrified face and ever so softly pressed his lips against his. Ohh...... Shocks of electric currents vibrated throughout his shaking body. Eyelash against eyelash, cheek against cheek and those luscious lips against his own lips. He let his lips linger on Darren's for a few seconds before it the world came crashing down again. Tearing off the union hastily, he gasped for breath, horror-stricken at what he had done.

"Darren, I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to-" he stammered as he struggled to get up, forgetting he still wasn't completely healed yet and groaned as the stabbing pain pulsated through him. Humiliated and perfectly mortified by his actions, he felt that he would never be able to face Darren once again.

Darren was speechless for a long time, his heart pounding furiously inside his chest. He brought his hand up to his mouth where he could still feel Daniel's soft mouth on his. Daniel?! Oh no, this can't really be happening...he isn't like that...

Daniel started to get up but a sudden shot of heated pain pierced through his body brought him back down again on the bed. He grimaced and moaned in agony, trying to twist his body into a comfortable position. "Oh shit!", he cursed to no-one in particular, "This hurts like hell!"

Darren immediately panicked, putting all other thoughts behind him. He sat up, and stared at the squirming figure next to him with extreme concern. "Dan, I think I better get you to the hospital. You look pretty bad." he whispered. He was fearing the worst. Did Daniel have much more serious injuries than he thought?

Daniel grabbed his arm and managed to to cry out "No!" before he fell back into the pillows, wincing as his stomach churned mercilessly inside. He took deep breaths to calm himself and the pain slowly went away again, like a tide going back out into the sea. Then there was that feeling of exhaustion, as beads of sweat broke out on his forehead.

"No, Darren," he finally spoke, his hand holding the other man's arm tightly. "I'm okay now. Really. Don't call anyone."

Darren looked doubtful, his eyes filled with anxiety. "But I could've ruptured you liver or something and we don't know it. It would get worse if we don't do anything. I don't like this at all."

But Daniel was adamant. He firmly shook his head. "Please, everything's alright now," he pleaded in his most convincing voice. "Daz, please...let's just leave it at this. I would have known if you did injure me that badly."

He sighed. Daniel could be so stubborn at times. "Why don't you want a doctor to check it out? You're obviously you're in a lot of pain and it's worrying." He inspected him closely. "Is it because you don't want anyone to find out? That I battered you like this?" he added quietly.

Daniel returned his gaze, tears in his eyes. He let go of his arm and furiously wiped away the tears with the back of his hand. "I never thought you could do this to me Darren. My guts feel like they've been torn apart. Why, you're stronger than you look, you know!" He managed to give him a bitter smile.

Darren reached out and brushed aside a strand of his dark blond hair out of his eyes. "I would do anything to take back what I just did to you," he said miserably. "But I can't. I'm so sorry Dan...I don't blame you if you don't want to forgive me."

Daniel found his words warming his heart. Of course he would forgive him, Daz never laid a hand on anybody before. But would Daz forgive him...?

He turned away for a few minutes in nervous silence as he replayed in his mind about what happened earlier on. He was being bandaged kindly by Darren and when it was done, he had pulled over and-and.... And nearly kissed him! His heart started to pound frantically once again. Christ, I nearly kissed him on the lips!

Seeing Daniel suddenly looking so flustered again, Darren realized what he was thinking. I knew he didn't really feel like that, he thought sadly. Never will, never would. He was just feeling really confused then. An image of Michelle, Daniel's fiancé, flashed unexpectedly into his mind. What on earth would she say and think if she ever found out what had just taken place? And what if she found out that his best friend was lusting after him?! Oh God, it just gets more and more complicated. Forget it, Darren. Find some poor other person to obsess over. Forget about him. But he knew in his heart of hearts that there would and could never be anyone else. It was either Daniel or nothing. And he also knew that it was a battle in which he could never win.

"Darren," began Daniel, his eyes darting about apprehensively, "About before, when I..when I-"

"Dan," Darren interrupted him sternly,"Dan, what happened between us is unimportant. I understand that you were just feeling really emotional then. We'll pretend that it never occurred." He gave him his most sincere smile. Inside , however, he felt like sobbing his bloody heart out and stomping on it. Daniel could never, ever be his...but wasn't there a saying which went: 'if you truly love someone, set them free...if they come back to you, then you were meant to be...' A beautiful little saying. But easier said than done. He sighed inwardly, fighting back his anguish. What a lucky lady Michelle is. I wish her and him all the best.

Daniel shot him a grateful smile. "Thanks," he said softly. Looking around the room, he yawned loudly, waves of sleepiness hitting him hard. "Man, I gotta go home..."

Darren rested his hand on his head. "Why don't you stay hear for the night?" He shook his head firmly as Daniel started to protest. "It's dark and extremely late outside. You're plonked out dead by the look of things! And I don't want you to ram into a truck!"

He laughed a little and sighed. "Alright, alright, you win Daz. I'll stay over here. By the way, mind if I borrow something to sleep in for the night?"

Darren got up and went to the wardrobe. He threw him some expensive silk pyjamas. "Here you go, your Majesty."

"Geez Daz, you really are a lover of indulgence, aren't you? Pure silk this and that! What next, silk carpets and wallpaper?"

Throwing a pillow at him playfully, he went to the bathroom to brush his teeth.

Chapter 2

Ring, ring.

Chris Jones coiled the phone cable around her fingers as she waited patiently for Daniel to pick up the phone. Three...four...five...

"Morning, honey!" Her husband's loud, cheerful interrupted her counting. "Breakfast?"

Chris turned and blew him a kiss as she motioned to him to wait. She silently mouthed that she was ringing their son. "And taking his time too!" she whispered, this time rather impatiently. Ten...eleven...twelve...

John Jones sat down on the dining table and waited for his wife. Looking around appreciatively at the lavish room and comfortable furniture, he still could not quite believe he was living in such luxury. This spacious mansion, with it's six large bedrooms and three bathrooms, a marvellous swimming pool outside at the back and air-conditioners in every part of the house, was a surprise present from his youngest son Daniel, one half a the highly successful pop duo Savage Garden. He was such a good boy, he always cared for his parents... John smiled proudly at the thought of his beloved Daniel.

Chris waited another five minutes before finally hanging up the phone. Frowning, she walked back into the dining room where John was, grabbing the bowl of fruit from the kitchen on the way.

"How's our Dan?" John greeted her as she sat down opposite him. Chris took a bite out of her apple, a worried expression slowly spreading on her face.

"He's not home. Or isn't picking up the phone," she replied distractedly. "He's said he'll be here at 8.30 on the dot, you know, to help us prepare the little party. It's a little over that time now and I tried to call him, but he's not answering."

John got up. "Ah well, you know how Dan is. Probably was out all night and staying over a mate's. Don't worry about him, he's a big boy now! By the way, coffee?"

Chris nodded, but still wasn't convinced. She sighed and scratched her head. "Yes, I know he's a grown man now. But I can never stop worrying about him, he's still my little baby..."

She heard laughter from the kitchen in the next room. "There you go again, Christine, reminiscing about good old days. You do remember that Daniel was quite a handful at an early age, don't you?"

Smiling at the thought of young Daniel running around the house with not a stitch of clothing on and screaming his head off that the bogey man was after him, she had another thought. "Hey, maybe he's at Michelle's. Geez, it's nearly nine now. An hour to go before everyone starts coming."

She got up and went to the phone.

On the third ring, a familiar voice answered.

"Hello?"

"Hi Michelle, it's Chris."

"Oh, hi Chris. How are you?"

"Not to bad. Yourself?"

"Hmmmm, alright. What's up?"

"Well, is Daniel over at your place? I need to talk to him."

"Uh, no, he's not here. Why?"

"I tried to ring him earlier on, but he's not home. Any idea where he might be?"

"At a friend's, perhaps? Try calling them, they probably have some idea where he might be. Why do you need him so urgently?"

"He's suppose to come here half an hour ago, to help with the food and decorations. And it's just not him to come late without calling first."

Michelle laughed. "Well, you got that right. He's compulsive about always being on time. Always checking his watch every five minutes to make sure he's at least an hour early!"

Chris had to laugh back. "Yeah, well, that's why I'm getting worried. I'll give his mates a buzz. By the way, don't forget. Ten sharp, okay?"

"I'll be there. See you Chris."

"Bye, Michelle."

She pressed the reset button and then spent the next fifteen minutes or so ringing up everyone she could think of that might know of Daniel's curious whereabouts. After the last call, she sighed loudly in disappointment and concern. "Where on earth could he be?" she pondered as John walked into the room. "John, he's not at Michelle's, not at Oliver's, not at Jonathan's or any of his friends. No-one knows where he is! I'm starting to really worry now. He's just disappeared!"

Suddenly, John perked up. "How about Darren? Tried checking with him? Might have a clue to where Daniel is at this moment."

"No....in fact, I haven't actually. But....you know how they're not exactly the closest of buddies at this moment now." She picked up the phone again. "But I'll give it a try."

On the fourth ring, a groggy voice, still thick with sleep, answered the phone.

"Hello?"

"Darren! It's Chris here. Did I just wake you up?"

The voice on the other line quickly cleared it's throat and gave out an embarrassed laugh.

"Well, it's a good thing you did anyway! My alarm clock went off and I didn't hear it! So, what's up Chris?"

"Well, I was just wondering: do you have any idea where Daniel is? I've tried his house, Michelle's and everyone else but he's nowhere to be seen or heard!"

There was a short pause, then Darren answered: "He's actually here right now, at my place. He's in the bathroom. Want to speak to him?"

"He's at your place?!" Chris couldn't hide the astonishment in her voice. Why, Daniel hadn't been to Darren's house for a long, long time. Did they make up already?

"Yeah, he's here." Another pause. "I'll tell him you want to talk to him."

"No, no, it's alright. It's-it's nothing important. By the way, you have to be here in the next half hour okay? Don't forget!"

"Huh? What ar-oh, that's right! Shit, I overslept..." Darren couldn't believe how he could forget about the party so easily. "Oh God...sorry Chris! I just had a long night, and I'm just so tired and-"

"Darren, Darren, it's okay. I'll let you go now, so you can get ready. Don't sweat."

"Yeah, well, thanks for calling. And for reminding me! Bye!"

Chris hung up and turned to John. "He's at Darren's, alright. He seems to have slept over there as well."

"That's probably a good sign," John replied," That they've maybe sorted out all their problems by now."

"Who was that?" Daniel asked as he got out of the bathroom, a large fluffy towel modestly tied around him. He felt fresh and clean after his shower and much better than the night before. His stomach didn't hurt too badly now.

Darren was rushing about the room, hectically grabbing any piece of clothing he could get his hands on. "Your mother! She wanted to know where you are! Dan, we've got a party to get to, remember? God, I almost forgot completely!"

Daniel slapped his face."Shit! I'm suppose to be there right now...oh great, just great!" He had to go back home to put on some new clothes. He only had the clothes he wore last night here, and they were stained and crinkled. Definitely not fit to wear again.

"Here," Darren threw a long sleeved brown top and black jeans at him. "This will fit you. You don't have time to get back home! We're gonna be bloody late!"

Daniel did as he was told and hurriedly slipped on the shirt. He glanced at the frantic Darren, who was carelessly dry-shaving his face in front of the dressing table mirror, and noticed a rather large purple bruise at the back of his neck. He reached out and touched it gently. "That's where I got you, hey?" he asked in a low voice. Gosh, I didn't notice it before.

Darren winced, and gave him a wry grin. To be honest, it still ached him very much and it was almost impossible to move his neck around, but he didn't want to say anything. "Well, it's nowhere as near as bad as how I got you. How are you feeling, by the way?"

"Better." But in truth, his shoulder still throbbed slightly. He just had to be careful not to accidently poke himself.

As he zipped up the jeans, which was fortunately was a perfect fit, Darren unexpectedly gave him a little hug from behind. "Thanks for forgiving me," he mumbled onto his shoulder. And how I love you, beautiful boy. Just a twist in time...and you could be mine... But it would never,ever happen, he was sure of it. Never.

Daniel turned and hugged him back. He was glad to have his best friend back. "I just want you to be happy," he replied warmly. He looked at the face and without meaning to, his eyes focused on those lips again. The memory of his mouth against them flashed before him and he abruptly turned his head away. "We better hurry."

Darren blinked at him in confusion then sensed what was going on his his mind. Even though he desired Daniel more than anything in the world and the taste his mouth nearly locking into his sent sweet shivers through his spine, he resolved never to touch him. That would just hurt too much, for both of them.

Soon they were all dressed up and ready to go. They both hopped into Darren's dusky blue Mazda Astina and Darren started up the car. He checked his watch. "We're already ten minutes late," he groaned as he pulled the vehicle out of the driveway. It wasn't long before they hit the freeway, and he was relieved the traffic wasn't too busy.

Daniel, sitting next to him with his legs crossed, absent-mindly played with his engagement ring as he looked out of the window. It was a clear summer's day, the sky a brilliant shade of blue with not a cloud in sight. He was thinking hard. His parent's had thrown a 'welcome home' party for Darren at their place and a lot of their friends and family would be there. Nearly all of them hadn't seen Darren as yet; in fact, come to think of it, Daniel had been the only one. And last night was one which he wanted to forget. But memories fade...yeah they're designed that way.... Still how could he do such a thing, such a shocking, perfectly shocking thing.... but there was something else to it as well. Breathing slowly, Daniel began to message his sore shoulder. At first he couldn't quite put his finger on it, but something deep inside kept nagging him. Then it slowly dawned on him. When he had first felt the sleek, smooth skin of Darren's lips brush with his own, he experienced a startling sensation shooting through him as if it was lighting every cell in his body with fire and passion, a sensation he had never experienced before. Even though it lasted only a few seconds, the feelings associated with it was profoundly intense, heightening every sensory organ in his body. And his emotions were running wild......something in him was opening up and he was scared. Very scared. He's my best friend! he thought to himself throught gritted teeth. Dan, you seriously cannot be imaginaing such awful things. But they weren't really awful. And he knew it.

The two sat in deafening silence for the rest of the ride, each drowned their own thoughts. Though the unpleasantness between them was over, there was still that uneasy chemistry in the air. Darren didn't dare to say a word or even look at Daniel as he turned the steering into another street. It would just make things worse.

At last they safely made it to the handsome-looking mansion. Rows of cars were parked all the way down the street. "Geez, how many people are coming?" Darren muttered as he pulled the car up the driveway. Suddenly, the front door burst open and familiar faces streamed out.

"Daniel!" Chris exclaimed as she watched her unsteadily son get out of the vehicle. She threw her arms around him as everyone else gathered and talked at the same time.

"You've had us worried! You're an two hours late, Mister!"

"Hey Daz, welcome home! How was the Big Apple?"

"Darren, we've missed you! God, you're paler than ever!"

"Come and give your old mum a hug, Dozer!"

More excited shrieks and crys were echoed. Darren beamed and engulfed everyone with a big bear hug. He relished every second, and realized just how much he had missed home. Observing the affectionate faces close to him, he could feel tears threatening to burst any moment. This was a moment to savour, a moment which made him feel for one instant that the world was really a beautiful place after all, and that everything would turn out alright. Leave Daniel behind, forget about him. Life without it's usual brutal problems.....got a ticket for a world were we are belong...so would you be my baby yeah....

Someone unexpectedly placed their slim, warm arms around Daniel's shoulder. He looked up and Michelle passionately kissed him right on the lips. "Hello my darling prince," she whispered. The scent of her strong perfumed overpowered him. He recoiled suddenly, as if on impulse. The kiss repelled him in some way.

"Hi," he answered her back, eyes blankly on her. How he loved this face, and cherished her sweet kisses. They had been together for years and years and it was the natural thing to do to get engaged. Michelle, whomed he had loved and treasured so much, he would give up the world for her. Michelle, whom he wanted to spend the rest of his life with until 'death do us part.' The memories of them together would remain with him forever.... but today he looked at his beloved in a new light. Something which quite alarmed him. Bells started ringing in his ears as he saw her examining him closer, an odd expression on her delicate face.

"Daniel, what's the matter?" Baby blue eyes searched his face. "Are you alright?" She brushed a strand of his hair out of his eyes.

What was wrong with him? Why didn't he look at her in the eye?

The earth was whirling. A butcher's knife was leisurely penetrating through him, taking it's horrible time with the torture. The shoulder throbbed, but his middle was a thousand time worse - ten whole boxes of Panadol will do just fine... Everthing was

black, so very black, as he plunged into it's bottomless obscurity.....

Chapter 3