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He woke with a sharp pain to his knuckles. He opened his heavy eyes and tried to focus. He groaned a bit as he pushed himself up. Apparently the piece of furniture he was sleeping on was not wide enough to accomadate his large frame. He had rolled over and his hand had hit the floor, thus, the pain. He sat up and rubbed at his eyes. When he opened them he lay eyes on an angel. It had to be. So delicate and graceful. Ethereal beauty radiated from her very soul. She was curled up asleep in the large chair like a child, paint spatters and clay clung to her as if they claimed their undying love to her by being in her presence. He stretched with a lazy grin settling on his face. He scooted to the edge of the seat and it was then that he realized his state of undress. It all flooded back to him, the night previous. What a wild ride his emotions had taken. He made a move to stand and dress before she woke, but the fabric tangled about his leg tugged at him painfully, slightly tearing at the thick patch of hair around the base of his penis. That was a familiar feeling, yet it still filled him with dread. Obviously he had cum in his sleep. He vaguely remembered a wonderful dream about Moirah and his eyebrows knit in thought. Had she seen him? Did she know? That was something he was afraid to find out. He didn't want her to think he was nothing more than a big immature horn ball. Damnit, he hadn't even kissed her properly yet. He tried to ease his fears and calm his knotted stomach. He was sure, if she had in fact known or seen him in that most intimate repose, she had understood. After all, he was still here wasn't he? She hadn't woken him and thrown him out. Perhaps she knew nothing about it. Either way, he was surely not going to be the one to bring it up that was for sure. Carefully, he pried the material from his body as he stood. He wadded it up and threw it in a pile of rags in a basket as he passed it by. He went behind the screen and retrived his boxers. Before he had time to dress further mother nature was yelling at him. Without hesitation he answered her call and returned to the studio to continue dressing. "Morning." Her soft voice greeted him. He spun around and faced her, still in the chair. He held a small wavering smile. "Morn'n." He urged from his throat in a soft tone. She stretched like a cat, he watched her lithe body move and glide. Immediately he mentally slapped himself. The last thing he needed now was to get a hard on. Silently he walked to the screen. She could see him fully from her vantage point, he knew it but didn't really mind. After all, the woman had seen him in next to nothing, he really didn't think her being able to watch him put clothes on was going to embarrass him. He reached for his dress pants, the change jingling in tune with his belt buckle as he hoisted them up around his hips. He zipped them but neglected the rest for the time being wanting to feel comfortable so early in the morning. Then Zac reached for his socks, leaning against a box and bending over to put them on. He hadn't even realized that she had quietly fetched her camera and was taking pictures of him. He didn't notice when she stepped closer to him while he put his shoes on. He was ignorant of her presence as he bent to retrieve his shirt from the floor where it had fallen the previous night sometime, slipping from it's perch. He stood looking out the wide window and soaking in the sun as it hit him directly in the face as he slid his shirt over his shoulders, neglecting to put on his undershirt. Slowly he buttoned it up as he softly hummed to himself. All the while she was still taking photos. He reached in his pocket and pulled out a ponytail holder. Reaching up behind his head he gathered his thick hair into a tail and secured it. He plucked his tie from the hook and stuffed it and his undershirt into the pocket of his suit coat as he turned. His head popped up from watching his hands at his pocket to meet her jovial eyes. Instantly that song came to his head, 'when irish eyes are smiling...' "Hey." He grinned sheepishly having been caught unawares. She matched his smile with a warmer version of her own. "Hey yourself." She lay her camera on a nearby shelf and took his coat from his hands. He nodded slightly in thanks, then buttoned up his pants and buckled his belt. He held out his hand for the return of his coat. When his grasp was firm on the fabric she pulled him towards her with it. He smiled down at her, reveling in her best coy look. They both dropped the suit coat and it lay forgotten on the floor beside them as he took her in his arms. Her hands slid up his chest and smoothed over his shoulders before comming to rest on the back of his neck. He lay his forehead against hers and sighed heavily. She looked nearly ready to cry. She burried her face into his chest and pressed her body to his. He tightened his grip around her small body. He was loving the way she felt against him, but crumbling inside for he knew he had to leave her and return to his responsibilities. Her nearly imperceptible sobs did not go un-noticed by him. He rubbed her back in small circular motions to calm her. She sniffled and looked up to him. Their eyes whispered to each other of what they wanted. He slid his callosed fingers over the back of her neck and cradled her head in his large hand. He bent to her and set fire to her lips with a mere touch of his own. She tasted of raspberries and he licked at her lips wanting more to find the taste of just her skin laying under the gloss of balm. Her tiny wimpers echoed in his mouth and sent ice up his spine. He felt the whole of the universe open before him with her one kiss. How could there be any doubt? She did love him. She loved him the way he loved her. His joy burst from his heart and it was his turn to shed tears of happiness. He was in love, and it felt like heaven.
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Hell would come soon enough when he had to leave her behind. But at least he would have a taste of heaven to drive him through the firey pits until he once again returned to her, his angel. Their kisses lingered and dwindled into minute pecks as he tried to pull himself away from her addictive lips. He bent to get his coat off the floor remembering he had something that belonged to her. As he stood back up she reached for him once again. He held her at arms length, with much difficulty on his part. He delved into his suit coat pocket and drew out his prize. Gingerly he peeled back the layers of the handkerchief and lay it open in the palm of his hand. There lay the center of their universe in a mixture of hues and tints. The crushed remains of the nose gay he had given to her but last night, it now seemed a lifetime ago. "I think this belongs to you." He whispered as he guided his hand toward her. She gripped at the edges of his hand and peered down, her eyes becomming weepy at the thought of what she had done to him. "I don't deserve that." She berated herself. His eyes snapped to hers filled with more love than she could fathom. "It always belonged to you." He offered. She covered the delicate treasure back up and curled his fingers around it protectively. She kissed his knuckles and lay her soft cheek against his roughened skin on his hand. His eyes closed in pain and euphoria as his head tilted back. The next few weeks were going to be pure hell. She stepped into his easy embrace and slipped her arm around his waist. She guided him toward a long low table strewn with candlesticks and photographs. Amidst the chaos she ferreted out a small box of decorative inlayed woods. She opened it and he carefully laid his bundle inside. She closed the lid and walked away from him towards her apartment. He followed in step behind her. She passed through the hallway silently, but the door she opened creaked with protest. He leaned in the doorway, shoulder against the doorjamb, to watch her as she placed the prized relic on a table next to a large four poster bed, her bed. Her fingers lingered over the pretty patterns of the box for a moment, a far away look in her eyes. She drew in a shakey breath and stood to face him once more. She tried her best to smile for him. She wasn't doing a very good job of it though and she knew it. A brave face was of no help to her. She knew how terribly she would be missing him. They both understood and didn't speak of it. He welcomed her back to his side with arms wide open. Gratefully she leaned into his body as he escorted her back to the leather sofa in the livingroom. They sat in silence and held each other trying to emulate eternity. His soft kiss to her forehead signaled a warning in her heart. She knew he had to leave then. She knew she could not hold his body captive, but his heart would be a slave to her. With physical pain she released him and stood up, facing him. Her quivering chin and red rimmed eyes made her all the more endearing to him. He looked up to her as he spoke, gently, while slowly drawing her into his arms and resting his head against her middle. "I promise, I'll call every day, and write too. And next month I'll catch a flight so I can come and visit you before we head home for rehearsals. Ok?" All she could do was nod while her fingers twisted the end of his pony tail. He held her tightly to his chest and her fingers stroked the back of his neck. He rose up and loomed above her, wrapping her in his embrace. "I really have to get to the airport Moirah. I have a show to do tonight." He said softly against her silky hair. She sighed. "I know. I just want to be selfish." He smiled against her forehead. "Me too." He admitted. He knew she wouldn't be able to handle going to the airport. He raised her eyes to meet his by placing a gentle finger under her chin. "I will see you next month. I promise." He whispered against her lips. She closed her eyes as a tear escaped. She nodded and raised up a fraction more to place a loving touch to his mouth.
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For the next month Zac was on auto pilot. A dark cloud hung over him and nobody, absolutely nobody, tempted to piss him off. The only time he was anywhere near a semblence of his normal self, was when he was alone. Alone with her on the phone. He wasn't completely happy of course, but their conversations did wonders to ease the tension from him. He felt closer to her, even when he was so very far away. The distance was only physical. Emotionaly, he was close to her, now more than ever. Every passing day edged them closer to that inevitable moment. That perfect space in time when once more they could be together. The suspense was gripping at his heart as it mounted. He wasn't quite sure how he was going to manage waiting. He reasoned with himself. He only now had the last leg of the promotional tour left, Japan was one place he would be glad to bid farewell to as it would be the last place he would see before he went to be at his angels side. Surely he could wait that long... couldn't he? After an evening of kissing ass at some shmoozers party, he was more than ready to hear her soothing voice. He dialed the number that now his fingers knew without instruction. It rang once and clicked on. "I missed you today Zac." She sighed. He chuckled softly. "How did you know it was me? It could have been anyone you know." She softly giggled. "I just knew it was you. You are the only one who calls me in the middle of the night, I asure you." He felt guilty for keeping her up now. "I'm sorry, I just had a really shitty day and I wanted to hear your voice." He admitted. She smiled with her voice. "I don't mind, in fact, I can't ever get to sleep until I hear your voice each night." A warm rush washed over him. It was certainly going to be a bitch waiting out the last nine days of this hell ride they called promotions. Their usual quiet conversation ensued until both were lulled into a dozy mood. But tonight, tonight he cried himself to sleep after he had hung up. He missed her. Missed her so much he felt his soul dying as it lay suffering, suffocating from lack of her life giving breaths against his hot skin. He needed her so badly the ache could not be eased. By strength of sheer will power alone, he endured those nine days. Endured the torturous heart rendering, gut twisting hours that slid by like a glacier as he fidgeted the whole way from Japan to America. His dad and brothers were almost certain they would be banned from that airline after the way Zac had treated everyone. They were just glad the rest of the family had gone home before them so they didn't have to put up with his crap. He was an absolute ogre. They were more than happy to part company at the airport as they headed home to Tulsa. They would do anything if it meant that he would go back to being the Zac they knew and loved. They missed him. As they were about to part ways at the terminal, Zac remembered something of importance. "Dad!" He hollered. His father turned to find out what was so important. Zac trotted up to him. A hint of spring in his step, perhaps his old self was begining to return already. "What is it Zac, I'm going to be late." His father prompted. "When you get home, don't let them open my mail... no matter what it is." He said sternly. His father wondered what he was going on about but was in a hurry to see his wife and children. "Ok, whatever Zac. Be careful. Bye." He churned out quickly trying to dismiss him. "I mean it Dad. No matter what! Mom promised, you gotta too. It's important to me." Zac pleaded. His father calmed and squeezed Zac's shoulder. "If it means that much, though I have no idea why, I won't question you now, but, I promise. After all, if Mom did, I'm sure it's a safe bet." He smiled warmly at his son. "Thanks Dad. It really means a lot to me. I'll explain it when I get home." He said as he gave his dad one last quick hug and pushed him off towards his flight. Before he entered the gateway, he turned one last time to wave to his son. He still didn't know how he missed him growing up so damned fast right before his eyes. Next thing he knew he'd be walking down the aisle to give Jessica away. He shivered at the thought and slumped down into his seat next to Taylor, more than ready to go home.
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Zac spoke animatedly to the man beside him as they left the gateway and turned toward the baggage claims area. His companion stopped short, the laughter dieing in his throat to stare, wide eyed until a goofy grin spread over his face. Zac still oblivious to everything was bumbling on about some idiot security guard when he felt a smack on his shoulder. He stopped walking and turned with a scowl to Darius. "What the hell did ya do that for?" Darius just grinned at him and pointed. Zac followed the direction of his finger and lay eyes on heaven itself. She stood there with a bemused small smile on her face, not a word from her lips. Darius heard him whisper breathlessly, "Moirah!" before he began to plow through the airline patrons. In seconds flat he flew to her and swept her up in his arms, spinning her around once, holding her close to himself. He kissed her. A long slow passion filled anxious kiss that left her wondering if she even knew how to breathe. He set her gently back on the floor, his hands gliding up from her waist, over her arms, past her shoulders and cupping her face. He leaned down to her and placed one final feather soft kiss that set her mind on fire. She opened her eyes and was greeted with the depths of chocolate colored passion. Without breaking their gaze he softly said to her. "You will never know how much I missed you." Her small hands gripped at his wrists as he held her face, a tiny smile breaking through as she tried to scrub away the pain she had been harboring for the past month. "But you're here now, that's all that matters." She stated in a quavering small voice. His hands fell from her face but his gaze did not as he gripped her hand in his. He smiled down to her in adoration. "You're the best surprize I've ever had." She just grinned as they went in search for luggage. They approached Darius, still grinning like an idiot. She held out her hand. "Hi! You must be Darius. Nice to meet you." Her gentle brogue sent chills up Zac's spine. Darius nodded goofily and accepted her small proffered hand to shake. "Yup. That would be me. And you must be the creator of the heavens and earth, from what I hear from Zac." He winked at her. Zac hid his face in his hands, neglecting to let hers go. She got a jovial impish grin on her face. "Moirah will do nicely thank you." Zac recovered briefly and groaned. "Can we please get our shit and get outta here? I really don't want to spend my two days off in an airport terminal trading zingers benifitting my embarrassment." With a small amount of laughter, they found everything and followed Moirah out into the warm spring sun. The death of 'grumbles Zac' quietly passed as he was put to rest. Life was a newly washed world and all in it was good.
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In the car all was quiet. She quickly glanced away from the street to see Zac beside her, huge smile plastered to his face. She reached over and gripped his hand, keeping her other on the wheel. He couldn't take his eyes off her and it was obvious the amount of adoration he held for her. From the back seat came a suspicious small cough. She looked up into her rear view mirror and smiled. Darius rolled his eyes and toothily grinned at her. She giggled and tugged Zac's hand toward the cd player to turn up the music before settling their clasped hands in her lap. This she could get used to, easily. It wasn't too long before they reached the hotel. To make it easier on all of them they parked and carried their bags to the front desk, trying to avoid as many people as possible. There seemed to be a steady stream of coventioners checking in. It was easy to slip in amongst the commotion and recieve a room key to the reserved suite. They shuffled off to the elevators, quiet reigned the trio until the doors closed them into the tiny space. The first sounds was a rather conspicious yawn from Zac. He laughed softly. "Sorry, guess I'm tuckered." She turned to him, concern in her eyes. "Have you slept at all since we talked last?" He gave her a sheepish downcast glance. "Uhh, no. Not really. I was too wound up to sleep." She drew in a slight breath as she stepped up to him and lay her soft hand on his cheek. "Zac, you haven't slept in nearly two days! No wonder you're tired. You're gonna get sick if you don't sleep sugar." He pressed his palm over her hand, tilting his head and savoring her touch with eyes closed. "I know. I'll sleep, I promise. I know I can now." He looked into her eyes. A silent thank you for her tender care. She smiled at him. The doors slid open and Darius booked it towards the suites door, calling over his shoulder. "Haul ass man, I gotta drain the snake and you got the key!" They laughed and Zac strode forth quickly. As soon as the light was green, Darius was bolting into the room. Zac just held the door open for Moirah, shaking his head with a smile. His friend was something else, that was for sure. He dropped his bags right next to the door and collapsed on the sofa with a great sigh as he lay down. Moirah set her purse down on the stand near his head and sank to the floor, brushing his hear back from his forehead with her fingertips. "Mmm..." He said with a smile, eyes gently closed. Her hand easily slid into his on his chest. He raise it up to place a kiss on her fingers. Softly she leaned towards him and spoke. "Zac, you're gonna get a stiff neck laying here with no pillow. Why don't you go on and get into bed? Give me a call when you get up, I'll be home." His eyes snapped open. "Don't leave me." He pleaded. "I can't let you go now. Will you come and lay down with me until I go to sleep? I promise, I'll keep my hands to myself." He grinned at her. She snickered. "What if I don't want you to keep your hands to yourself?" She teased. With a chuckle he sat up. "We'll just see who caves first huh?" He taunted. He stood up and offered his hand to her and helped her up. "Oh you're on buddy. I sooo could whip your ass. I am the queen of self control." She threw at him as she stood and shoved him towards the unoccupied bedroom. He chuckled and grabbed her hand, pulling her along behind him. When he passed through the door he whipped her around and gathered her up into his arms, leaning her up against the door to shut it. He captured her lips and tongue in an intense and sensual dance. When they broke apart he had a devilish grin. "Now try to control yourself!" He challenged. She gave him a look of mock indifference and pushed him towards the bed. "Ah-ha! I knew it! You can't control yourself, you're trying to get me into bed already!" He cried through laughter. She rolled her eyes and grinned at him as she kicked off her shoes. She knelt infront of him and began to untie his sneakers. He grew quiet as he watched her. He kicked off his shoes and pulled her up, leaning in for another kiss. He needed to taste of her constantly, he was an addict, she was his drug. She pulled away from him. "You need to sleep." She wiggled her finger in his face. He captured it to gently bite it. "Come on now. Get in bed or I'm gonna go home." She warned. Immediately he stood up to pull off his shirt. "I'm go'in." He admonished. He reached for his belt and quickly slid it from the loops of his jeans. He unbuttoned the waist of his pants and turned to turn back the covers. She took off her sweater and earrings and waited for him to lie down before crawling in after him. She snuggled up to him, feeling the warmth of his body against her skin. They settled into a comfortable position and before long, his chest was rising with an even rhythm, her head raising with the swell of his lungs from her place upon his broad chest. There could never be anything more comfortable, before long, she herself fell asleep, wrapped in his protective embrace. Both were smiling.
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Sunlight tugged at her heavy lids forceing them open. A moment of focus passed as she gathered her thoughts. She smiled, she had slept the whole night at his side. She stretched and snuggled her back into his chest, grasping his arm and drawing it closer around her. She wasn't ready yet to leave his warmpth. They fit together so perfectly it seemed, his huge arm wrapped around her waist, her head tucked up under his chin, her back pressed against his chest. Yes, they fit together like they were meant to do this by design. She watched the clouds drift outside the window as she thought of what she had to do today. It may have been Zac's day off, but she still had obligations to tend to. Inwardly she groaned. She would have much rather just chucked it all and gone off spending time having fun with Zac, but she couldn't. Wondering what time it was she raised Zac's arm up from around her waist to check the time. She rolled her eyes, she couldn't lollygag here for long if she was going to get home and grab a shower before she had to meet Gwendolyn. Accountants! Who needed them? She did, or else she would have stayed the whole day laying in bed next to Zac. "You gotta go huh?" His soft voice caressed her hair. She nodded. He tightened his arm around her again, kissing her hair. She sighed. "I can call you later." She offered. "Nooo..." He whined. "I'm tired of phonecalls. Let me come with you! I promise, I'll be quiet as a church mouse." He pleaded. She giggled. "Zac Hanson, quiet as a church mouse? Not possible!" She teased. He sat up on his elbow. "Hey! I resemble that remark!" He joked. She groaned about his cheesey joke and rolled over to face him. "I would love to have you with me today, but I warn you, it's gonna be boring." She offered as she watched her fingers trace circles on his chest. "Nothing in life is boring when I'm with you." He said smoothly. She grinned up at him with mischief in her eyes. "That's right. You're a barrel of laughs." She joked. He rolled his eyes. "Oh come on. Let's get the hell outta here. After my shower you want to go get some breakfast? I'm starved." He asked as he gripped her hip. Her hand slid up his chest around to the back of his neck. She pulled him down to tease his mouth with her own as she spoke. "I'm having breakfast with Gwendolyn, that's why it's so early, can ya hold out til then?" She asked. "Mmhmm." Was his reply as he finaly was able to capture her lips in a mind altering kiss.He moved to lean over her more. She rolled onto her back beneath him, her hands twisting in his hair from the blissful torture of his kisses. She pressed her body into his, feeling his growing hardness against her side. A tiny moan escaped her unwillingly. The kiss broke but his advances continued. He spread small kisses along her jaw, nibbled on her ear and began a trail of extasy down her neck with a line of soft sucking kisses. His thumbs following her collar bones as he grasped at her shoulders. Her foot sliding up the back of his calf to place her knee between his. He pressed his erection to her in desire, nearly cumming when he heard her wimper. His fingers savored the heat of her flesh radiating through the thin fabric of her blouse when they followed the contours of her breasts. He ran his thumbs in minute circles over her hardened nipples as he sucked and licked at the hollow of her throat. Her breathing increased rapidly, verging on hysterical as he now nestled between her legs, pelvis rocking against her own sexually charged movements. "Ohhh Moirah..." He groaned. "The things you do to me woman!" He tried to pull away from her, desperately fighting to gain control of his own body. She chuckled softly, remembering she had made the same declaration a month ago. He eyed her suspiciously. "What's so funny?" He asked, the mood shifting swiftly. "Oh nothing." She mused mysteriously. Somehow, he didn't believe her, but took this oppurtunity to detach himself from her body by rolling over before things got out of hand. Trying his best to ignore the painful ache in his groin he lay on his back and squeezed his eyes shut, one hand wrapped around her beside him the other laying over his face. She laughed as she turned to press to him, kissing his cheek. "We'd better get going." He groaned. "I know, give me a minute." He begged from beneath his arm. "Take all the time you want." She cooed to him, her fingers grazing over the tightness in his jeans before she leapt up off the bed and out of his grasp. He growled good naturedly as he stretched across the bed after his failed attempt to get her in his clutches. "You don't play fair." He complained, watching her gather her things and slip into her shoes. "I'll wait for you, I have to make a call." She said airly, ignoreing his accusation as she breezed out the door. Watching the door softly close behind her his head slumped forward onto his outstretched arms. "Urrrgh... I'm dying here!" His quiet exasperation sounded.
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She slipped her cell phone from her purse and quickly called Gwendolyn to confirm and update her for this mornings meeting. Then, took up her brush to work out some of the tangles she had accumulated over night. Darius strolled out in nothing more than his boxers, oblivious to the fact she was standing there. "A-hem!" She teased. His eyes grew wide and his face ashen as he scurried behind the counter. "Geez, give a man a heart attack why don't ya?!" She giggled. "Well what did you expect? I wasn't about to sleep all day. I do have a life you know, I can't simply be at the beck and call of Mr. Rock Star in there." She quiped jerking her thumb over her shoulder, indicating the room that still housed one Zachary Hanson. He gave her a cheesey grin. "I don't suppose you could. But, would you mind turning around so I can make myself more decent?" She smiled and did as asked. As she sat, mirror in hand, removing and repairing her make up to look presentable herself, Darius reappeared. She grinned at him as he nonchallantly poured himself some juice, trying his best to look like he wasn't just caught half naked in front of the boss's girlfriend. A quiet conversation passed between them, getting to know one another more. She liked him. He was funny and friendly, and he obviously cared for Zac more as a friend than a body guard. It made her feel good that he had someone like Darius watching his back. Sometime between his listing off of his siblings and her 'I was a highschool geek' story, Zac breezed through the room in naught but a towel, dripping on the carpet all the way from his bedroom door to the front door where he quickly retrieved his bags and returned to his bedroom with out a word. When he once again disappeared behind the door they looked at each other and broke out in laughter. When her giddyness eased off some she turned her attention back to Darius with a querry. "Are you going to be joining us today?" He looked confused. She quickly cleared it up for him so he wouldn't be left there hanging. "We are going back to my place, I have a breakfast meeting, then an appointment with a gallery owner, and an interview in my main studio. Do you need... would you like to come?" She caught herself, not wanting him to feel like Zac would be in any situation where he would be needing Darius, but still wanting to cover all the bases and not neglecting being polite as well. He thought seriously for a moment before addressing her. "I guess that's really up to him. I don't see any potential problems, but sometimes, he just..." He didn't know how to say this to a woman he barely knew but knew that Zac felt close to. She placed her hand on his arm in a knowing gesture. "I know. He told me." She confided. He only nodded, not wanting to discuss Zac's fears or weaknesses. That was just something a select few knew about him and he was not comfortable divulging anything, even if she had been privy to the information. It wasn't long before they were joined once more by Zac, this time clothed but hair still wet. He strolled to the small frige and grabbed the same bottle of juice Darius had earler, only he tipped it up and drank straight from the container, emptying it. With a smack of his lips he faced them. "I'm ready whenever you are." He announced. She laughed at him. "You're a piece of work Zac Hanson." He grinned at her as he approached her. A quick kiss on top of her head and he slung his arm around her waist. Darius cleared his throat gaining his attention. All it took was a look between them to establish that Darius needn't bother to tag along. He was cool with that. They said their goodbyes and Darius called after them. "Don't forget to call your mom!" Zac looked over his shoulder on his way to the elevator. "I won't! Later man." And she pulled him into the elevator and into a heated kiss.
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It was a good thing Gwendolyn was a good friend or else she may have been embarrassed by the fact that she and Zac just couldn't keep their hands off each other. All morning over breakfast and through the mind numbingly boring meeting, she had no will power to deni herself the pleasure of feeling his warmth under her fingers or stealing a fleeting kiss when Gwen's back was turned. She felt like a kid again. That's what Zac did to her and she wondered if it was because of how rejuvinated his prescence made her feel or if it was because he was still a kid and she was trying to fit in. She decided now was not the time nor the place to confront such thoughts and pushed them away, doing her best to enjoy the alloted time she did have. Bidding farewell to Gwen with a hug she was surprized when Gwen wispered into her ear. "You're adorable together, so damn sappy it makes me sick to my stomach it's so sweet... must be real love." She pulled back to look her friend in the eye, she was not pulling her leg! Wow! She stammered through a response ever so elegantly. "Th...tha...thank you." She was a bit stunned and lost in her thoughts as she and Zac walked back out to her car. He noticed and offered to drive, mechanicly she handed over the keys. Once they headed back downtown, he had to break her out of her reviere to ask directions to the gallery. He didn't want to get lost and make her late. That seemed to bring her round, he was grateful, he was kind of leary about what could pull her mind away from him so far. She entered the gallery on Zac's arm, feeling an odd sense of grandure. A breathtakingly beautiful building filled with astonishing art that easily moved ones spirit, yet she was draped on the arm of a towering god. Somehow, it made her feel not so insignifigant anymore. She felt like someone, she felt... whole. That was a new sensation for her. She always held doubts about her art and lacked the confidence to feel comfortable in a gallery setting, as if she weren't good enough to be in the position she held. But now, now she felt like a stronger version of herself, only more. More of her, more of her passion, more... just more. She felt completed. She liked it. For once she didn't feel the need to pump herself up in the eyes of the gallery owner. She presented herself, spoke casually, handed over her portfolio, and just waited. This was too easy. She was surprized that she felt so relaxed, this was a pivitol moment. She needed the backing of this gallery for her show in the fall. Maybe it was her good mood. Maybe it was the fact she liked the friendly personality of the owner. Maybe it was the fact that she had the subject of her whole show standing beside her, a shining example of how her eye could catch pure art, for he was, in every sense of the word. This fact did not go un-noticed by the owner either. When she had mentioned it to Moirah it brought a slight tinge of pink into Zac's face. But, being the consumate professional preformer he was, it soon passed and he poured on the charm. It came naturally to him. He practicly had that woman eating out of his hand. When they shook hands at parting the envy in her eyes was obvious to Moirah, her chest swelled in pride. She was an extremely lucky woman, and she knew it. She wanted to show her appreciation for all he did to help her score that gallery. Another notch to add to her professional belt so to speak. She was going to make him lunch. So it wasn't falling at his feet in heated sexual bliss. For now it would have to suffice. She wasn't really ready to contend with a sexual relationship with Zac yet. Not that she didn't want to... gawd she really really wanted to, she wanted him so badly in made her ache, but she just wasn't ready yet. She lay her hand above his knee as he had both hands on the wheel, then directed him to a little outdoor market she frequented. She needed to pick up a few things before they went to the studio. She figured they had plenty of time. This was something she wanted to do. It just felt right. Besides, she hated going out to eat. She would alway much prefer to cook herself. And now that she had someone to cook for... well that made it all the more appealing.
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She directed Zac to a parking garage and locked up the car. He slipped an arm around her and together they casualy walked down the street and around the corner. She handed him a basket and slipped her hand into his, forming an unbreakable bond. She would pass the produce and pick it over. When she found something to her licking she would place it in the basket and he would plant a soft kiss on her face. Shopping had never been so inviting before. He laughed at her when she haggled with a vender over the eggs they had for sale. After they had walked away, her victorious, he asked her, "How do you know so much about eggs? Half of the things you were saying I didn't even understand!" She shrugged. "My parents grew up on farms in the old country. We always had animals. I think it's just inherited." He just shook his head. She never ceased to come up with something new to endear and amaze him. He loved that about her. She was one big never ending surprize. They wandered into a little shop and she picked out a handful of flowers a few at a time arranging them in her hand as she went. She approached the counter and the old woman sitting there spoke not a word to her, just simply handed her a deep blue sateen ribbon. Moirah lay her purchase on the counter and tied up the boquette with grace and ease. Handed the woman a twenty and left. Zac knew she had over paid, knew she had done that many times before. Knew, she was being kind to the old woman out of the love in her heart for all of those less fortunate than herself. "You come here everyday to do that don't you?" He asked her. She looked at him from the side of a glance and nodded. He beamed, she was so giving. It made him feel very warm inside. He wondered how many others in this neighborhood she helped out regularly. Did it matter? It was between she and those she felt the need to help hold up in society. She was their angel as well. It just made her all that much more special. She held up a finger and slipped into a healthfood store. Two minutes flat she was back with a small package and on their way back to the car again. He had his hands full of shopping bags to she dug in his pocket for the keys. She unlocked the car and climbed in while he put the bags in the back seat. She started the car and before he even got in she had the tunes cranked full blast. He had to laugh. Here was a tiny woman who just haggled with a farmer over the freshness of eggs, head banging to Ozzy Osbourne... she was something else alright, and she was all his. Lickety split they were in an alley, pulling up to a large warehouse type of building. He figured this must be where she parked to be near her studio. He was quite surprized when she reached up to her visor and pressed a remote for a garage door opener. She pulled in and shut the door behind them. He didn't know where to look first or what to wonder about. This apparently was her studio... and she parked in it! It was huge! The more he looked around, the more he knew why. She did all of her work here. The studio at her apartment was miniscule compared to this one. There were an array of unidentifyable tools, a maze of statuary, stacks of canvases, tables strewn with every imaginable item one could think of... and apparently a rather large half naked man sitting in his underware watching cartoon network and eatting fruity pebbles? Ok, that one he did not expect.
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She seemed oblivious to this fact as she climbed out of the car grabbing the bags from the back, he retrieved both of their knapsacks and followed her. The man stood up and set his bowl on a crate being used as an impromptu coffee table and took the bags from her, bending down to place a quick kiss on her cheek. "Darling! You're early. Their office called and said two o'clock." He gushed. Zac had all he could do not to roll his eyes. He was seemingly normal until he opened his mouth, then, he was flamingly gay. Nope. No threat there! He had a private chuckle with himself. He was pleased all of their hands were full and he didn't have to shake his hand while this guy was standing there in boxers being introduced. Moirah filled a vase with water as the guy started unpacking the bags, Zac just plunked his ass on a stool at the counter watching the two banter back and forth. He took in some more of his surroundings not wanting to interrupt them as it seemed they were talking bussiness. There was a motorcycle parked near Moirahs car, what looked like stairs to a loft, this kitchen type of thing along this corner and a makeshift type of livingroom/lounge area. Apparently, this guy whom he was just introduced to was Ramone... and he lived here. He watched the two, this guy treated her like a little sister though he knew Ramone had to be not much older than himself. He was glad Moirah had someone to look out for her when he was away. Somehow it gave him a comforting feeling knowing she was being taken care of by someone who loved her while she was so far away from her family back in Ireland. He decided he really liked Ramone. Gay or not, Ramone was about to become a good friend. Screw his press image. The man was worthy of getting to know. He had had other gay people associated with his career, so how much more different could this one be just because it was his personal life? "Zac honey?" Moirah called. He snapped his head back to her with a question on his face. "I asked if you wanted a drink?" Moirah giggled. He gave her a sheepish grin. "Just water please." She nodded and fulfilled his request setting it down before him. Ramone scurried up the staris and disappeared for a bit. She took the time to feel his heat on her skin. She came around the counter and stood between his knees as he sat on the stool. Leaning into his embrace she lay her head against his chest listening to his heartbeat, strong and steady like the rythums he pounded out on his kit sometimes when they talked during rehearsal times. She felt his kisses slip from her hair to her cheek to her jaw. Slowly they crept over to her lips, taking her by surprize though she knew they were headed in that direction. Of their own accord her hands roamed his taught body stoking the fire between them. Sighs began to turn to little moans of pleasure. She couldn't get enough of him, she pressed her body to his, reveling in the growing hardness she felt against her tummy. She couldn't fathom the joy it gave her to know that she could pleasure him to that point that he wanted her like that. "I know he's gorgeous hunny, but don't you think you should let him up for air sometimes?" Came Ramones witty raspy voice from the bottom of the stairs. They broke apart like teenagers caught in the backseat of a car by her father. Ramone found this absolutely uproarously funny. "You're precious!" He chocked out between his giggles.
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Zac's arms were loosely around her middle but hers were embarrasinly up underneath his shirt. She hastily withdrew them and wiped at her lip, eyes darting about the room. "Um... Ramone, why don't you go unlock the garden?" She urged, trying to get him to disappear for a bit and ignore the smirk on his face. He so wanted to tease her, but knew she was embarrased enough. "Okily dokily!" He chirped as he sauntered past the two, a low chuckle still playing in his throat. When he was far enough away from them she sighed and hung her head, shaking it. "He's never gonna shut up bout that one." She raised her eyes to meet Zac's, rolling them. "He can be so childish!" And they laughed together. Zac gave her one last peck before releasing her to get on with her tasks. He watched her as she puttered about the kitchen. She seemed very comfortable. She reached up to retrieve a pasta press but she was too short. Immediately he jumped up and stood behind her, easily reaching it. He set it down on the counter before her and bent to lay tender kisses on the back of her neck as he wrapped his arms around her once more. He reached up and withdrew the barrette that held her hair up in a twist, letting it tumble between his fingers. She leaned back into him, sighing. She loved the way he touched her. "Can't leave you two alone for a minute can I?" Came that pesky voice once more from behind them. Zac's head sagged onto her shoulder as she felt his body slump against hers. She laughed as she turned around and out of his embrace, leaving him with his hands leaning on the counter, body hunched over dejectedly. She smiled at him as she laughed good naturedly. "Ramone. Luv. Has anyone ever told you that you have lousy timeing?" He laughed in response as he brought his cereal dish to the sink, rinsing it. She bumped him ver with her hip to get him out of her way and comandeered the faucet. He just shook his head and slapped a hand on Zac's shoulder. "Come on outside man, have a looksee what this wild woman has in store." He offered as a distraction. Zac shrugged and followed him out, leaving Moirah to wash her vegtables while she hummed softly to herself.
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He passed through the little door that hung in the larger one, like a barn he thought. His eyes adjusted to the bright noonday sun and took in an amazing array of objects. Sculptures mostly, but there was also some furniture and a lovely garden too. She wasn't just kidding when she said garden. There, in the middle of the city, in what appeared to be an abandoned lot, she had created a lovely spot to relax, and apparently work for there were many unfinished pieces scattered about. He looked to Ramone with a question. The first response he got was a big grin. "She's good isn't she?" Zac nodded in agreement. He wandered around taking in the view with Ramone following behind like a puppy. Everything was so different but somehow, it all seemed to fit together. He sat on a stone bench beneath a shade tree, Ramone perched beside him. Zac stretched out his body and took in the warm sun, clear sky, fresh breeze, this was nice. He looked up and wondered how long this tree had been here. Surely it had not been here long enough for it to grow as big as it was, it had to have been transplanted. Ramone saw the question in his eyes as he watched the leaves dance above their heads. "This was why she took this studio." He said softly. Zac lowered his eyes, waiting for the rest of the explanation. Ramone obliged. "When she first got recognition, she was looking for a studio with her benifactor, this used to be a factory owned by a family. The family house used to sit here but when it burned down, taking their son, they left the area. The depression was hard on everyone and they had lost the last thing that they owned. The bank foreclosed on the factory and sold off the equipment to pay back taxes and such. The building sat empty for many years, sometimes it was used as a warehouse, or an assembly hall. It never did anybody much good. But, because nobody wanted it, the lot was left to grow wild. That's why she wanted this place. It was large, close to everything she needed, she liked the people of the neighborhood, and she wanted to put to good use what someone had lost that was dear to them once. She felt she owed it to them. They were Irish immagrants from the turn of the century. She felt like there was a bit of home here. This tree was brought as a sapling from Belfast. They planted it the day they began to build the house and the day their son was born. She wanted to keep them alive, in spirit at least. She didn't want them to mourn what was, but rejoice what could be." Zac sat in awe of Ramones naritive. Such a simple thought held imense emotions. He was proud of her, in awe of her generosity, and dumbfounded that she had never mentioned it before. But, like a lot of things about Moirah, he realized this was just something that she would have talked to him about if it had come up, but it didn't. She was always in the here and now. Living for today. Sure they talked about the past, sometimes about the future, but most of the time, they just lived in the moment. He offered Ramone a smile as he rose from the bench and left him behind to find her. He just had to kiss her after hearing that story.
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He followed his nose and found her stirring a simmering pot on the stove. Quietly he stepped behind her and took her in his arms. She leaned back against his chest and sighed. "You should be more careful you know. He's gonna get suspicious and see right through that gay act you know." He couldn't help but crack up at that. She was funny damn it! She laughed with him. "You really didn't think you were sneaking up on me did you? I heard you comming from a mile away!" She teased as she turned to him, standing on tip toe to reach him as he bent down, and kissing his soft lips. "Actually, I just wanted to hold you, and kiss you, and..." She held her hand to his chest and pushed him away. "Whoa. Stop right there mister." She laughed as she ducked out of his embrace. "Aww geez!" He cried. "Can't a guy get any fun around here?" She grinned at him. "Perhaps sometime, but for now I have lunch to think about." She said as she dove her hands into a bowl of dough. "Whatcha make'n?" He asked as he peered into the bowl, munching on a stray piece of zucchini. "Pasta." She said simply. "Fresh?" He pipped up. "Is there any other kind?" She shot back at him. "Do you know how much I love you?" He grinned at her. "I love fresh pasta. Nobody ever makes it here, when we were in Italy was the first time I had it... I pestered my Mom so much, Dad went out and bought her a pasta maker." He chuckled at his own antics. "Well it's good to know you love me for such an important reason." She teased him as she rolled out a ball of dough. A quiet laugh was shared then he watched her pass the dough through the press again and again before she would fold it over accordian fashion and use a big ass knife to slice it into linguine. "Stir that hun." She pointed her knife at the pot on the stove. He pushed himself off the counter and did her bidding. "Are the onions clear yet?" She asked him. He peered into the pot. Not knowing just how clear she wanted them he brought a spoonfull over to her. She picked up a teaspoon off the counter and dipped it into the bigger spoon searching through the contents. Satisfied she took up some on her small spoon and tasted it. She made a face of concentration. "Taste this, does it need more garlic?" She asked. With out hesitation he leaned in to lick her lips. "Tastes great to me." He growled at her. She laughed and shoved his shoulder. "You moron!" He chuckled with her then took the spoon from her and tasted it. His eyes shut and he moaned lightly. "God, that's good!" He admitted. "I take that as a no then." She giggled as she took both spoons from him, dumping one in the sink the other she used to stir the pot once more before shutting it off and covering it. She took a strainer from the hook above her head and began heaping the pasta into it. He sat again on the stool to stay out of her way. He watched her as she trotted across the kitchen, humming to herself. He realized this was just like watching his own mother cook. He had to smile at that. He knew his Mom would like her. She stood gently stirring the pasta into the boiling water, she flicked her hair back over her shoulder. 'God she is beautiful.' He thought. She bent to the oven, bowl in hand, to baste the chicken breasts. 'And sexy too!' He decided watching her ass sway with her movement. She set the now empty dish in the sink and tended to the pasta. His eyes were glued to her. She cleaned up the mess on the counter she had made from the pasta and set things in the sink. She opened the frige and pulled out a jug of milk, opened the cupboard and fetched out some things. Set a bowl on the counter and began stirring up something sweet. He had no clue what, but he could smell the sugar. She set it aside and took a box from the top of the frige that looked like a tackle box for fishing. He wondered what the hell she was doing but kept silent as he sat intrigued. She took some pasta from the water with a slotted spoon and tested it. Nodding to herself she turned off the stove. Bringing the culander to the open side of the sink she located two potholders and began to attempt to carry the large pot over to drain. Before she even got both hands firmly gripped on the handles he was there taking it from her. He stepped to the sink and drained the steaming liquid off for her. "Thank you." She said softly, adoringly. He nodded as he lay the hot kettle aside and got out of her way once more. She rinsed it and set it to drain on a plate in the fridge to chill. She reached into a drawer and took out a curious contraption that looked like a plate that spun around on a pedestle. Now he was really confused. She ignored his questioning glance and went to work. She took a cake from the freezer and placed a circle of cardboard on the spinning plate, held on with a dab of what looked to be icing from the bowl she had prepared before. 'Hmm... interesting.' He watched her quickly assemble and frost a round chocolate cake. 'Ok, so the spinning plate made it easier and faster to frost. Cool. What the hell was the tackle box for?' For a while she had her back to him and he watched her movement without really being able to see what she was doing. Finally his curiosity got the better of him and he got up to go and see what she was up to. He stood next to her, leaning his hands behind him against the counter. She had a few pointy bags of icing, the kind he had seen on tv. She was making tiny little flowers from icing! 'So cool!' She would dot this thing that looked like a giant thumbtack with icing, put on a small square of waxed paper and create this miniture ode to mother nature in sugar. When she finnished the flower she would move the waxed paper from the 'thumbtack' and place it on a plate, then, do it all over. She had made little white daisies, purple violets and... pink roses! She had remembered. It made his heart swell threefold in size. Still, he didn't want to disturb her. He watched her silently.
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When she got a plateful she took it to the freezer then headed over to a cluttered diningroom table. She began to clear it off and he walked over to help her. Together they soon had the table paraphenalia free and he went in search of the dishcloth to scrub it down while she dried right behind him. Satisfied with her work she pecked him on the cheek quickly as he was rinsing out the dishcloth. He liked doing these simple everyday things with her. It was just them, living life. It made him forget about all the screaming and pressures that surrounded him in his work. She rummaged through a box sitting atop a washer and came up with a linen table cloth, freshly pressed by the looks, and a handful of shiny floral blue material. He watched her transform a simple table into something chic, classically elegant. A graceful art of setting the table. At home it was more like a cafeteria. Set out a stack of plates, bunch of silverware and a mass of glasses. Then an ungodly amount of food, assembly line of filling plates and passing them down, voila! Dinner was served. Apparently Moirah liked things more... atmospheric. The fresh flowers she had just bought and some candles graced the table. Polished silverware, stemware, and attractively patterned plates were set out for four places. Even linen napkins in delicate silver rings of twisted wire adorned with colored glass beads. She knew how to let one enjoy a meal. He couldn't wait for the event. She waltzed past him and retrieved the plate of tiny sugar blooms from their frosty slumber. He went to stand next to her again, enthralled at how her hands could hold something so fragile, when he knew how strong they had to be to be able to strike stone into art. She lifted the flowers from the paper with a flat knife and delicately lay them in an array that looked as if they grew there. He looked on in interest when she took up an icing bag again and began to pipe miniture greenery throughout the soft colors. Then added even more tiny little flowers in fetching skyblue and pearly white. It looked as if spring had blown through the door and settled upon the cake itself. Abruptly she threw all that she had been working with, save for the knife and one bag, into the icing bowl and set it next to the sink. She snapped shut her 'tackle box' of decorating tools, and wipped her hands. She reached into the back of a cupborad for a plate with tiny little legs on it. It reminded him of something in his grandmothers china closet. With much skill she pried the cake from the spinning plate and centered it onto the new plate with the tiny feet. She piped a decorative boarder all the way around the bottom covering up any raw edges and placed the finnished cake on a counter out of the way. She cleaned up her mess and washed her hands with out so much as a word to him. She was certainly efficient, for just as she dried her hands, she took the pasta from the fridge and tossed it into a decorative bowl. Pulled open the oven door, slid out the pan of chicken and placed it on the stove so she could transfer them to the waiting nearby platter. The vegtable sauce was spooned into a matching bowl and she put all the dirty dishes into the sink, and covered them with an enamel sliding shelf making him realize it was an old fashioned triple sink. How had he missed that? That was the whole reason for the shelf he supposed, to make it easier and hid unpleasantness, he liked that idea. He helped her bring everything to the sideboard near the table that had previously been holding a large basket of fruit and a coveted bowl of candy. He began to follow her back but she turned as she was about to open the fridge. She asked. "Could you go and get Ramone for lunch? I'm sure by the time he gets in here and gets cleaned up our other guest will have arrived." He had no clue who the 'other guest' was but nodded and turned to do what she had asked. Entering the garden again he felt a new sense of peace. This was a space maintained with love, passion, and respect. He liked that idea. He would have liked the garden anyway, but knowing its history just made it that much more enjoyable. However, he did not have the time to tarry and relax, he was searching for Ramone.
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After searching the garden completely he slipped into a tiny alley and came out in the alley they had drove through. Nope. He wasn't there. He turned the corner and found a parking lot sort of area and an old shed. He even checked the shed just in case. Not there, nothing there but a few old tools and some boxes. One place left he could be unless he slipped back into the studio, and if he had... well at least he got to stretch his legs. He turned the next corner and was greeted by what looked like a mini city. Really it was blocks of stone in differing shapes and sizes, but the effect was like looking out over a city from up high in one of his hotel rooms. There is where he found Ramone. He was wedged between a wall of the studio and what looked like a small crane, head burried in the monsters innards apparently repairing something. Zac climbed up and took a seat in a nearby forklift waiting. When Ramone backed out of the tight squeeze Zac spoke. "Moirah says come in for lunch." Ramone looked back over his shoulder while his hands worked independently at replacing whatever he had just taken apart. "Sure thing." He told Zac. "Just as soon as I get cleaned up, she hates it when I get her linnen greasy." Zac smiled, so even Ramone knew they were having a nice lunch... maybe it was something she did often. Ramone finnished with his task grabbed a rag from his back pocket and began to wipe away some of the exess grime. "So has Rita arrived yet?" He directed at Zac as he watched his rag bleed from red to black. Well, it seems Ramone knows even more. "Who's Rita?" Was Zac's reaction. Ramone met his gaze with a smile. "You'll like her, everyone likes Rita. She's comming for lunch really but it's under the pretense of an interview. She does this every so often. Moirah just placates to her because she thinks Rita needs more of a social life." Zac nodded, not really understanding but agreeing to whatever it was because he knew that was just the way she was. Together they headed towards the farthest corner of the building back towards the garden. Ramone stopped for a moment and lay a hand on a large and formitable looking block of white stone. "This is you man." He said, gaining Zac's attention. "Huh?" Was Zac's eloquent reply. Ramone laughed. "This is the block she picked out for your sculpture. She went to the quarry herself and watched while they cut it to ensure that it was done properly." Zac was taken aback. That was a lot of fuss for some little statue of him. He felt, overwhelmed, embarrased, proud... loved. When he picked his jaw up off the ground he spoke more to himself but aloud so Ramone could hear it too. "So that was why she was gone for those three days. I missed hearing her voice then, no phone calls for three days made me miss her a lot. So what's so important about this one? Does she do that for all of her pieces?" Ramone snickered. "Hardly man. It's a rare occasion when she picks it out herself from the quarrey, and she has never watched them cut it before. This one was worth it though." His hand smoothed over the roughened texture of the creamy surface. "This my man, is real Italian marble. The finest money can buy. The same sort that Michael Angelo himself insisted on for some of his better works." This time Zac was floored. "I'm speechless!" Zac could say no more. "I know man, it's pretty fucking awesome when you think about it huh?" Ramone asked. Zac only could nod. Ramone nudged him with an elbow, not wanting to get his clothes soiled. "Ya know man, she really is good at what she does. But this is one show that has her obsessed. I've never seen her so... well, be so much of her work." He turned to Zac with question in his eyes. "Does that make any sense to you?" Zac nodded, eyes adrift in thought. He did know what he meant. He had seen it himself with some artists. Even his own brother, Taylor was always very into his work, his work was him. Really, it was a marriage made in heaven. "Yeah, yeah I know what you mean." He said softly as they began to walk away again. He wondered if he himself had ever been in such a state, and if one were, were they ever aware of it? He doubted it. Taylor never recognized that he always put his work before anything else. Hell, even Isaac had priorities over music and he was a very dedicated man. Had been all of Zac's life. Soon enough they came to the door he had exited from earlier. One full circle around her studio. Wasn't it odd that he had taken such a short trip, yet learned so very much about his world, his love, and even himself. Amazing things always seemed to happen when he was around Moirah. Absolutely amazing.
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Zac followed Ramone back into the studio. Ramone's perky voice rang out. "Hello Rita dear! We're so happy to see you again!" He waved to a portly lady nearing her sixties. "Why hello there young Ramone! And who is this with you? You're newest conquest dare I say?" She chirpped. Zac nearly choked to death! Ramone let out a hearty gufaw and Moirah did her best to hold in her laughter with her hand over her mouth as she poured the wine. When she regained her composure she came to Zac's rescue. She couldn't bear to see his eyes so red and bulging, looking as if they were ready to pop. She brought him over a glass of wine to soothe him. "Actually Rita, this is my boyfriend Zac." She gestured to Rita. "Rita Howeland, Zac Hanson. Zac Hanson, Rita Howeland. I'm sure you will be getting to know him better." Moirah said politely while she gripped Zac's arm in silent appology and rubbed his back as he sipped to soothe his now infrequent sputters left over from his coughing fit. "Oh! Well do forgive me then youngman. It's just that young Ramone is forever parading around with his newest toy in tow... and I just thought..." She was a bit pink in the cheeks already but the hue deepened as she realized her fauxpa. Zac took control of himself once more now that the shock had worn off. "Quite understandable really, no harm done. Shall we?" He asked as he offered his arm to escort her to the waiting table. She smiled grandly at him, thankful that all was forgiven so easily and well taken with his charm. She took his arm and Moirah the other as they headed toward the table and Ramone excused himself to wash the grit from his hands. Zac first seated Rita on one side of the table and did the same for Moirah on the other. She lay a hand on his forearm. "Dear, the parmesan is still in the kitchen... second shelf under the milk, would you mind?" She asked. He smiled at her. "Of course not. I'll be but a moment ladies." And he slipped off to fetch the cheese. "Moirah you naughty girl! You didn't tell me you had a man in your life! Why have I not been introduced before today?" Rita scolded friendily in a hushed voice. Moirah grinned at her old friend. "He travels quite a bit. This is the first time he's been back to town in a month. Really Rita, you know very well I would have seen to it that you met him sooner if it were at all possible." Moirah defended herself quietly. Rita gave her a sly look just as Zac returned. He set the cheese down and kissed Moirah on the cheek as he slid into his chair. Rita grinned at the slight rose in Moirahs round cheeks. "So dear, tell me, what do you do? Moirah says that you travel, what is it that makes you such a wanderer?" Rita asked politely but still being the busy body she was. Zac smiled nicely at her. Ramone was right. He did like her. She was a pleasant woman and even if she was a bit... different... she was warm and inviting in nature. "I'm a musician." He answered her. Rita's eyes lit up. "Oh! Really? That's wonderful dear! What orchestra do you play for? What instrument? I bet you're first chair." She prattled on. Zac couldn't help the smirk. "Actually, I have a band, with my brothers, a rock band of sorts." He watched her for her reaction. He was tickled when her face turned, sympathetic. "Oh, I see." She said. "So you travel all around the area I suppose. That must make it hard on your family, not seeing them and all." She offered her condolences in a round about kind of way. Moirah was getting a kick out of this but she couldn't let the poor thing go on thinking of Zac as a no name nobody who was on a road to being a starving artist. She didn't want her to feel sorry for Zac. "Um... Rita, actually, he and his brothers travel with all of their family." She piped up. "All of them?" Rita looked confused. "I have another brother and three sisters besides my two brothers who are in the band with me. And my Mom and Dad." He clarified. "Oh how nice for you! But really dear that must be hard on your parents. So many mouths to feed! They must be very devoted. And what a wonderful job your father must have to be able to do that too, traveling and such." She really was lost but she wanted to be polite. Moirah giggled, outright giggled, Zac gave her a warning look playfully. Then it was Ramones turn to come to the rescue as he appeared. "Rita dearest, Zac is wealthy and famous, you needn't feel sorry for him." He said matter of factly but still with enough fun in his voice to take the edge off. Zac cast his eyes down, embarrased at being refered to thusly. Moirah gave Ramone a small slap on his freshly scrubbed arm. "Ramone! You should try some tact. It's becomming on anyone." Rita was more confused than ever now. Moirah set the story clear once and for all. "You see Rita, Zac here is in a band with his brothers, and they do travel with his family, all over the world in fact. He umm... he has a recording contract you see and he has to promote his albums and he tours and such, so he has to travel." Rita nodded. "I see." She said vaguely. Moirah got up and walked across the studio to a large stereo while Ramone began to serve the lunch. When she returned she held out a cd case to Rita. "This is Zac and his brothers album from a couple of years ago, those are his older brothers." She pointed out. Rita slid her glasses onto her nose that had been hanging around her neck. A slight look of recognition on her face. Then Moirah handed her another cd. "And this was their first nationally released album. Perhaps you would know him better by this..." She trailed off, embarrassed that she had to resort to Mmmbop of all things to make the situation come into focus for her. Rita took it and looked for a moment, glanced at Zac, who was doing his best to smile without blushing, then back to the cd. It slowly crept up on her and then all of a sudden it hit her, the realization that this boy in the picture she held was the man at her side now, and who he was in his place in the big world.
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"OH!" She cried. "Oh my! I'm sorry! Sometimes I'm so much the old fogey. Do forgive me dear, I'm sorry about that whole feeling sorry for your parents bit... it just didn't occur to me, you being so young and all..." She trailed off before she dug herself any deeper into the hole. He laughed softly, genuinely. He lay a hand over hers and squeezed tenderly like he would his gradnmother. "It's perfectly alright Rita. I rather enjoyed not being someone to scream at for once." Rita again looked confused causing laughter all around her at the table. Ramone leaned toward her and said in a low voice. "Zac here is one of the countries leading heart throbs among our young ladies." Moirah was taking the cd cases back from Rita when she turned to slap him once more. "Ramone! Really!" Ramone and Rita just laughed. Even Zac chuckled a bit at that one. Now that the rough patch of meeting had been smoothed over, lunch went off without a hitch. And for zac, it was devine to have a homecooked meal for once let alone one so damned tasty too. Such a woman! Oh his grandmother would be proud, proud indeed! He had to smile at that thought. Moirah was unique, she was old world meets new world in a tempest of green fire eyes and long curly auburn hair. In her smile she held his worlds, all of them.
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