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asphaltcowgrrlTitle: Date Night
Fandom: Romani Detective Original Fiction
Pairing: Andrej Zeklos/Zayne Reyes + a bit of a jelly narco
Rating: PG-13
Word Count: 1,463
Summary: It’s date night and Zayne has a revelation.
Author’s Note: Written for the weekend challenge at 1_million_words. My prompts were, “You're So Vain” and “Fragrance was the sharpest trigger of memory, a transport into forgotten worlds.” Wasn’t quite able to work siren into this, sorry. Also, I don’t like this. I did while I was writing, but I was also drinking overmuch last night (I was a mess), so apparently drunk me and sober me have different tastes. Who knew? I feel like it’s missing something but since I can’t figure out what, here you go.
“What are you getting so gussied up for, cowboy?”
Zayne lifted his gaze to the mirror and saw James leaning against the bathroom’s door frame. He had no idea what the narco wanted or why he was even here, in Zek’s house, when he knew it was date night. Clarification: it was his date night with Zeklos. Not Rosewood’s. God only knew that asshole loved to try and usurp his nights with Zek every chance he got.
“Zek and I are going out to a concert tonight,” he said, directing his focus back onto himself. Zayne squeezed a dime-sized portion of hair gel into the palm of his hand before rubbing his hands together. Carefully, he guided his fingers through his thick, wavy hair, arranging each wild curl exactly how he wanted it.
“And,” James said, drawing the word out, “so that means you have to go all GQ on us?” He shook his head, disgusted. “You of all people ought to know that Andy doesn’t care about that kind of thing.”
Zayne caught sight of James in the mirror. His copper-colored hair was artfully mussed, the stubble on his chin neatly trimmed. Despite being a raging asshole at times, Rosewood was a handsome man. It was easy to see why Zeklos has been so smitten when they first met. Hell, if he was honest, he could see why Zek was still so damn smitten. But this double standard pissed him off.
“Look, Zek’s always so put together all the damn time,” he said, rinsing the gel off his hands. “He looks more professional in sweats and a t-shirt than I do in a suit. So, what’s the issue if I want to look good when we go out? I’ve embarrassed him enough over the years, the least I can do is not mortify him by looking like a bum.” Heaven only knew that after a few drinks, he was liable to open his mouth and scar Zeklos for life anyway.
“Excuses. That’s all that is. You’re so fucking vain it hurts, Reyes.” James pointed a finger at his hair. “I mean, look at that. Who wears their hair like that?”
Resisting the urge to roll his eyes, Zayne pointed to James’ own hair. “Who wears theirs like that,” he retorted, emphasizing the last word.
James checked himself in the mirror. “What’s wrong with my hair?”
“Nothing,” Zayne said. “I actually like it like that. But my point is, it’s not any more done up than mine is. I just have a fucking out of control mop, and you don’t.” He made a mental note to get a haircut. It wouldn’t help control his mass of hair much, but it’d help a little.
“Whatever,” James said, waving away Zayne’s words. He pushed off the door frame and shrugged. “Have fun at – where did you say you were taking him tonight?”
“To a concert,” Zayne said, attempting to finish getting ready despite the narco. “It was his choice, so god only knows what I’m getting myself into.”
James snorted, almost sounding pleased at whatever Zek had up his sleeve. “I’d say have fun but…”
“But you hate it when he has more fun with me than he does with you.” Zayne winked and pushed past James. “Zek,” Zayne called down the hallway. “I’m ready, where are you?”
“In the kitchen, Zayne,” he replied in a normal voice. “Can you please not yell?”
“Nope,” James said, grinning. “He’s like a construction worker. Foul mouthed and doesn’t know how to talk without screaming.”
“And to think I used to like you,” Zayne muttered. He made sure that James didn’t hear him though. He might be the dumbest of the three of him, but he knew better than to piss Zeklos off right before they went out for the night. Not getting laid was the least of his worries in that situation.
“Jay,” Zeklos said, smiling as he planted a kiss on the redhead’s cheek. “Zayne and I are about to go out. Did you need something?”
He shook his head. “I forgot that it was date night,” he said, running a finger along the line of Zeklos’ jaw. “I’ll see you tomorrow, I guess.” James pressed his mouth to Zeklos’ and pulled away. “Night, cowboy. Although you’re too pretty to be a real cowboy.”
Zayne flipped him off and got a nasty look from Zeklos. “Sorry,” he said once James had exited the house. “He deserved that.”
“Maybe,” Zeklos said. “But maybe you should also learn how to let things go.”
He made a face. “I guess. Can we talk about it tomorrow so we don’t ruin tonight? There’s a beer with my name on it out there somewhere.”
Zeklos shook his head and laughed. “We can talk about it later, Zayne. I do not want to be late for the show.”
“Who exactly are we going to see,” he asked, opening the driver’s side door of Zeklos’ car. He’d been given permission to drive tonight for reasons Zayne wasn’t aware of yet.
“That is a surprise,” Zeklos said, eyes shining with mischief.
“You’re taking me to a fucking country concert, aren’t you,” he asked, eyeing his boyfriend over the hood of the sedan.
“You will see when we arrive,” was all his partner said before slipping into the passenger seat.
“Fuck me,” he grumbled, slipping behind the wheel. “Just promise me it isn’t any of that bro country.”
“It is not,” Zeklos assured him. “He is from California and is closer to rock than he is to country. You will be pleasantly surprised.”
“I sure as hell hope so,” Zayne teased. He leaned across the console and stole a quick kiss. Putting the car into reverse, he gave Zeklos one last look before pulling out of the garage.
--
Zayne ran the back of his hand across his forehead. The concert was winding down and he was dripping with sweat. Zeklos had been right, the guy was good. And kinda hot, too, but he’d never admit that to anyone. Even if he’d hated every song, he wouldn’t have ever admitted it. Seeing how happy and engaged Zeklos was made it worth it. Plus, the crowd had a fantastic vibe, everyone singing and dancing along with every song.
A familiar chord echoed in the ampitheater and Zayne looked at his boyfriend. “I know this song, I think.”
“I am sure you do,” Zeklos shouted back. “It is one of my favorites of his and I have played it many times.”
Smiling, Zayne put his arm around Zek’s shoulders and pulled him close. He’d been right, he did know this song and actually liked it, too. Leaning in close, he kissed the side of Zek’s face, inhaling the sweaty, spicy scent of him. His eyes fluttered closed as the smell of Zeklos’ skin sent a wave of memory over him. Skin on skin flashed in his mind’s eye, the sound of ecstasy rang in his ears. The memory so strong, it was as if he were back in that moment. Holding, loving Zeklos for the first time.
Suddenly, the lyrics hit him with as much force as the memory had and he understood why Zek loved this song so much. He’d known for years that Zek had been in love with him. Years that his partner gone wanting, giving, and never receiving. Glancing at Zeklos, he felt a wave of love and gratitude for him. Because not once had Zeklos ever given up on him, their friendship, or anything else. Even though he probably should have a long time ago.
It finally all made sense.
I don't want to feel your heartbeat
I don't want to taste your kiss
I don't want to call your name, I don't want to call your name
I don't want to want you like this
Girl, I'm lovin' you, lovin' you against my will
He pulled Zeklos even closer, resting his head against his boyfriend’s. The song washed over him, bathing him in understanding and realization. He’d been an ass for so many years, and yet, this man had always remained by his side. There’s no way he’d ever deserve all of this, but he’d take it, every last bit he was offered. And maybe – just maybe – he could find a little grace for the redhead, too. Maybe.
An arm snaked around his waist, and he felt the familiar weight of Zeklos’ body pressing against him. “Thank you,” Zeklos mouthed, not even trying to fight the noise of the crowd around them.
Zayne pressed his lips against Zek’s ear. “Anything for you.”
--
End note: the song that I chose was this one by Gary Allan. Although, this one is rapidly becoming Zayne’s theme song as far as his relationships go.
Fandom: Romani Detective Original Fiction
Pairing: Andrej Zeklos/Zayne Reyes + a bit of a jelly narco
Rating: PG-13
Word Count: 1,463
Summary: It’s date night and Zayne has a revelation.
Author’s Note: Written for the weekend challenge at 1_million_words. My prompts were, “You're So Vain” and “Fragrance was the sharpest trigger of memory, a transport into forgotten worlds.” Wasn’t quite able to work siren into this, sorry. Also, I don’t like this. I did while I was writing, but I was also drinking overmuch last night (I was a mess), so apparently drunk me and sober me have different tastes. Who knew? I feel like it’s missing something but since I can’t figure out what, here you go.
“What are you getting so gussied up for, cowboy?”
Zayne lifted his gaze to the mirror and saw James leaning against the bathroom’s door frame. He had no idea what the narco wanted or why he was even here, in Zek’s house, when he knew it was date night. Clarification: it was his date night with Zeklos. Not Rosewood’s. God only knew that asshole loved to try and usurp his nights with Zek every chance he got.
“Zek and I are going out to a concert tonight,” he said, directing his focus back onto himself. Zayne squeezed a dime-sized portion of hair gel into the palm of his hand before rubbing his hands together. Carefully, he guided his fingers through his thick, wavy hair, arranging each wild curl exactly how he wanted it.
“And,” James said, drawing the word out, “so that means you have to go all GQ on us?” He shook his head, disgusted. “You of all people ought to know that Andy doesn’t care about that kind of thing.”
Zayne caught sight of James in the mirror. His copper-colored hair was artfully mussed, the stubble on his chin neatly trimmed. Despite being a raging asshole at times, Rosewood was a handsome man. It was easy to see why Zeklos has been so smitten when they first met. Hell, if he was honest, he could see why Zek was still so damn smitten. But this double standard pissed him off.
“Look, Zek’s always so put together all the damn time,” he said, rinsing the gel off his hands. “He looks more professional in sweats and a t-shirt than I do in a suit. So, what’s the issue if I want to look good when we go out? I’ve embarrassed him enough over the years, the least I can do is not mortify him by looking like a bum.” Heaven only knew that after a few drinks, he was liable to open his mouth and scar Zeklos for life anyway.
“Excuses. That’s all that is. You’re so fucking vain it hurts, Reyes.” James pointed a finger at his hair. “I mean, look at that. Who wears their hair like that?”
Resisting the urge to roll his eyes, Zayne pointed to James’ own hair. “Who wears theirs like that,” he retorted, emphasizing the last word.
James checked himself in the mirror. “What’s wrong with my hair?”
“Nothing,” Zayne said. “I actually like it like that. But my point is, it’s not any more done up than mine is. I just have a fucking out of control mop, and you don’t.” He made a mental note to get a haircut. It wouldn’t help control his mass of hair much, but it’d help a little.
“Whatever,” James said, waving away Zayne’s words. He pushed off the door frame and shrugged. “Have fun at – where did you say you were taking him tonight?”
“To a concert,” Zayne said, attempting to finish getting ready despite the narco. “It was his choice, so god only knows what I’m getting myself into.”
James snorted, almost sounding pleased at whatever Zek had up his sleeve. “I’d say have fun but…”
“But you hate it when he has more fun with me than he does with you.” Zayne winked and pushed past James. “Zek,” Zayne called down the hallway. “I’m ready, where are you?”
“In the kitchen, Zayne,” he replied in a normal voice. “Can you please not yell?”
“Nope,” James said, grinning. “He’s like a construction worker. Foul mouthed and doesn’t know how to talk without screaming.”
“And to think I used to like you,” Zayne muttered. He made sure that James didn’t hear him though. He might be the dumbest of the three of him, but he knew better than to piss Zeklos off right before they went out for the night. Not getting laid was the least of his worries in that situation.
“Jay,” Zeklos said, smiling as he planted a kiss on the redhead’s cheek. “Zayne and I are about to go out. Did you need something?”
He shook his head. “I forgot that it was date night,” he said, running a finger along the line of Zeklos’ jaw. “I’ll see you tomorrow, I guess.” James pressed his mouth to Zeklos’ and pulled away. “Night, cowboy. Although you’re too pretty to be a real cowboy.”
Zayne flipped him off and got a nasty look from Zeklos. “Sorry,” he said once James had exited the house. “He deserved that.”
“Maybe,” Zeklos said. “But maybe you should also learn how to let things go.”
He made a face. “I guess. Can we talk about it tomorrow so we don’t ruin tonight? There’s a beer with my name on it out there somewhere.”
Zeklos shook his head and laughed. “We can talk about it later, Zayne. I do not want to be late for the show.”
“Who exactly are we going to see,” he asked, opening the driver’s side door of Zeklos’ car. He’d been given permission to drive tonight for reasons Zayne wasn’t aware of yet.
“That is a surprise,” Zeklos said, eyes shining with mischief.
“You’re taking me to a fucking country concert, aren’t you,” he asked, eyeing his boyfriend over the hood of the sedan.
“You will see when we arrive,” was all his partner said before slipping into the passenger seat.
“Fuck me,” he grumbled, slipping behind the wheel. “Just promise me it isn’t any of that bro country.”
“It is not,” Zeklos assured him. “He is from California and is closer to rock than he is to country. You will be pleasantly surprised.”
“I sure as hell hope so,” Zayne teased. He leaned across the console and stole a quick kiss. Putting the car into reverse, he gave Zeklos one last look before pulling out of the garage.
--
Zayne ran the back of his hand across his forehead. The concert was winding down and he was dripping with sweat. Zeklos had been right, the guy was good. And kinda hot, too, but he’d never admit that to anyone. Even if he’d hated every song, he wouldn’t have ever admitted it. Seeing how happy and engaged Zeklos was made it worth it. Plus, the crowd had a fantastic vibe, everyone singing and dancing along with every song.
A familiar chord echoed in the ampitheater and Zayne looked at his boyfriend. “I know this song, I think.”
“I am sure you do,” Zeklos shouted back. “It is one of my favorites of his and I have played it many times.”
Smiling, Zayne put his arm around Zek’s shoulders and pulled him close. He’d been right, he did know this song and actually liked it, too. Leaning in close, he kissed the side of Zek’s face, inhaling the sweaty, spicy scent of him. His eyes fluttered closed as the smell of Zeklos’ skin sent a wave of memory over him. Skin on skin flashed in his mind’s eye, the sound of ecstasy rang in his ears. The memory so strong, it was as if he were back in that moment. Holding, loving Zeklos for the first time.
Suddenly, the lyrics hit him with as much force as the memory had and he understood why Zek loved this song so much. He’d known for years that Zek had been in love with him. Years that his partner gone wanting, giving, and never receiving. Glancing at Zeklos, he felt a wave of love and gratitude for him. Because not once had Zeklos ever given up on him, their friendship, or anything else. Even though he probably should have a long time ago.
It finally all made sense.
I don't want to feel your heartbeat
I don't want to taste your kiss
I don't want to call your name, I don't want to call your name
I don't want to want you like this
Girl, I'm lovin' you, lovin' you against my will
He pulled Zeklos even closer, resting his head against his boyfriend’s. The song washed over him, bathing him in understanding and realization. He’d been an ass for so many years, and yet, this man had always remained by his side. There’s no way he’d ever deserve all of this, but he’d take it, every last bit he was offered. And maybe – just maybe – he could find a little grace for the redhead, too. Maybe.
An arm snaked around his waist, and he felt the familiar weight of Zeklos’ body pressing against him. “Thank you,” Zeklos mouthed, not even trying to fight the noise of the crowd around them.
Zayne pressed his lips against Zek’s ear. “Anything for you.”
--
End note: the song that I chose was this one by Gary Allan. Although, this one is rapidly becoming Zayne’s theme song as far as his relationships go.
