Broadway Betrayal

A gay story: Broadway Betrayal Tess O-Meter — Amber.

You can dip in and out of this unexpected series, but for a richer read and character development they are best when read in the order of writing. Broadway Lust Story, Broadway Love Story, Broadway Luck Story, Broadway Beginnings, Broadway Bust, Broadway to Vegas and Broadway Betrayal.

Warning: This story may contain triggers for people being investigated or treated for ill health. Please proceed with caution if that may be you.

-X

Ty came in from his run to find Tony, who had not very politely insisted that Ty proceed without him this morning, now awake and in the bathroom.

He sidled up behind Tony who was cleaning his shaver in the sink, having just completed what he called his rough shave.

The character that Tony played in the show had the scruffy look, so it had been quite some time since Ty had seen Tony clean shaven. Probably his guest spot at Engagement Las Vegas. Tony usually only shaved for special occasions.

“Are we awake now, Mr Grumpy in the mornings?” Ty asked as he rubbed his own scruff on Tony’s shoulder.

Tony rinsed bristles down the sink, an amused smile on his face. “Give a man time to get a coffee,” he mumbled.

“Well I wanted to talk to you. Hey, what’s this,” Ty asked suddenly distracted.

“What?”

“This bruise on the back of your arm?” Ty gently brushed his fingers over the dark mark above Tony’s elbow.

Tony just shrugged, “Just me being clumsy, I guess.”

“You’ve been clumsy a lot recently.”

“Well I have a physical job, Ty,” Tony pointed out. As if Ty didn’t know very well. He turned, “What did you want to talk about?”

But Ty was distracted again. Having belatedly registered the fact that Tony was very, very naked.

“Hmmmm? Oh, later. It can wait,” Ty muttered and sank to his knees.

“Ty, God sake. I want coffohholyshit!” Tony’s knees nearly buckled as Ty swallowed him deep. He grabbed the sink edge for support.

“Whoa.”

Ty pulled slowly back, sucking hard all the way, Tony’s cock falling from his mouth with a little popping sound. “Did you wish to make a request?”

Tony waved vaguely at the bedroom, quickly grabbing the sink again as the soft little kisses Ty was placing on his cock head were making his legs shake.

Ty shook his head at the mute suggestion. “Nah, I’m rank. Need a shower. I’ll just wake you up a bit.” He suctioned Tony back in, his tongue swirling and pressing. Just a hint of teeth, because it was fun when Tony got nervous.

“Fuck. Ty.” Tony wanted to slide his fingers into Ty’s hair, but all his energy had drained into his dick and he didn’t want to fall. Bathrooms are dangerous places. He just gripped the sink and let Ty worship his cock.

Sometimes Ty liked to let Tony deepthroat and choke him, but he wasn’t in the mood today so although he swallowed deep, it was a brief caress and mixed with licks, kisses and nibbles.

He heard Tony’s breath start to catch and knew he was getting close.

“Ty. Ty, I’m.”

“Uh, hmmm,” Ty mumbled with his mouth full. Sucking hard as Tony flooded into his mouth. Continuing to suck and massage with his tongue until Tony let out a high pitched giggle.

“Ahh, Shit, Ty. Please.”

Ty let Tony’s oversensitive cock fall from his mouth and kissed his quivering thighs before he stood and taking Tony’s face in his hands, kissed him deep.

“You taste good, Baby.”

Tony rubbed his cheek against Ty’s for a moment, his eyes still closed. Then he pulled back and looked at Ty lovingly. “You’re not wrong about needing that shower.”

Ty burst out laughing, unoffended. He was hardly going to be sweet-smelling after a five mile run.

“Put the coffee on then. I won’t be long.” He turned to watch Tony walk into the bedroom, Tony’s naked ass from behind was one of his favourite views, then stepped into the shower. Soaping himself thoroughly and making do with a quick jerk off. He wanted coffee too.

Less than ten minutes later, hair still dripping onto his shoulders (he had just dragged sweatpants on for now), he sipped gratefully and eyed Tony who was spreading jelly on toast.

“Thanks,” he said as Tony passed some toast over, before sitting with his own.

They munched contentedly for a while. Sipping coffee. Tony flicking through the paper that Ty had picked up for him and stealing glances at Ty’s damp, bare chest.

Ty making notes on a pad and getting his thoughts in order for the day. While enjoying the way the sun came through the window and picked up some red in Tony’s thick, dark blonde hair.

They had settled well into this amazing apartment. Cal and Frank were charging them the same rent they had been paying in Brooklyn, which was ridiculous given they were now in the heart of the theater district.

They were saving a fortune on travel, being able to walk most places. And Ty hadn’t got bogged down, living above where he worked (the club was in the basement). As he spent plenty of time every day out at the gym, or dance class. And also around the city watching other people’s performances, for inspiration, and looking for talent.

Tony was now into his second year at Empty Nights, which was still sold out most nights. No empty seats at Empty Nights, being the popular refrain.

Most of the cast had stayed put. Even Isabel staying for a second year, which was unusual given she was in such high demand. “I’m having too much fun,” she had told Ty. “I don’t want to go yet.”

Still, there had been a few new cast members, which was extra rehearsal for the whole cast and longer days. Ty leaned his chin in his hand and studied Tony critically. He did look a bit tired.

Tony finished with his paper and looked up, finding Ty observing him intently.

“Problem?” he asked.

“Have you dropped some weight?” Ty asked, getting back to the question he had intended to ask earlier.

“Oh, well, yea. A bit,” Tony admitted, avoiding Ty’s eyes. “It’s been busy you know. With the changes at work.”

“How much have you lost?”

Tony winced. “About 5lbs.”

“About?”

“Okay. 5lbs,” he admitted.

Ty frowned. It wasn’t a lot in itself. But for a dancer who was already honed down to his heathy limit it was quite a lot.

A lot of dancers were technically underweight, but Tony and Ty both had athletic builds so couldn’t get away with that, and Ty didn’t approve anyway. Tony was naturally smaller and more slender, but even so.

“You never did go back for that check up with Dr Miles did you?”

Tony had seen the doctor some time previously and had been told to make an appointment in six months for a follow up, but things had been so much better by then he hadn’t bothered.

“No, I’ve been thinking I should. I just keep forgetting.”

Ty thought. The follow up would be about four months overdue now. “Give me your phone.”

Tony handed it over and Ty efficiently went through Tony’s security questions, then into the his email for the link. Inputting all of Tony’s personal details he highlighted an appointment on the upcoming Thursday. Tony had no show that day, but Ty was busy. He picked the Friday instead.

“Friday, 11am. I’ll come with you and we can go to the zoo afterwards.” Ty sneakily disguised his desire to go with Tony as a trip out.

“If he does another prostate exam, you’re buying me ice cream at the zoo.”

Ty huffed out a laugh as he handed Tony his phone back. “It’s a deal.”

-X

The following afternoon Ty had just finished rehearsing a new routine with some of the dancers down in the club.

He glugged some water and made some notes, pleased with how well it was going.

Suddenly a small, curvy body pressed against his back and arms wrapped around him. He turned quickly with surprised pleasure and hugged Polly close.

“Hey, Polls. What are you doing here?”

“Needed a Ty fix,” she said hugging him back.

Polly was one of his closest friends, really more like a sister, but he had only seen her yesterday when he was at the theater. He pulled back and tipped her chin up.

“Everything okay? You need me to beat someone up for you?”

Polly laughed, “I haven’t got man trouble.” But then she sobered. “Ty, can I talk to you?”

“Sure, you wanna come upstairs?”

“Is Tony home?”

Ty glanced at his watch. “He should be.”

“Can we go somewhere else?”

Puzzled, Ty agreed and they walked a few blocks to a café that specialized in tea.

Polly sat in a quiet corner with her Earl Grey, which Ty had previously tried and thought both tasted and smelled like cat pee.

He sipped his coffee while Polly explained that she was worried about Tony. He didn’t seem himself and didn’t have his usual energy. Sometimes struggling on a matinee day.

“He’s fine on stage,” she said. “Amazing as always, but there’s nothing left over. He walks offstage like a zombie. Like he’s completely exhausted. Occasionally he doesn’t bother showering before he leaves, and that’s really unlike him. I think he’s lost some weight.”

She paused as Ty nodded. “He has. We were just discussing that this morning. He’s dropped 5lbs.”

Polly’s eyes widened, then she leant forward. “A couple of nights ago he stumbled slightly when he had me in a lift. I thought he was going to drop me, it scared the shit out of me and he was so upset afterwards. And did you know he’s taken to napping in between shows on matinee days?”

“Napping!” Ty was shocked.

She nodded. “I’ve started checking, to make sure he’s awake in time. A couple of times I’ve had to wake him and he’s been really groggy.”

Ty sat for a few moments as Polly waited patiently, knowing he was thinking things through.

He realized, as the slight discomfort that had pushed him to book an appointment he could attend upgraded itself to concern, that things had slipped a bit recently.

A few dance classes missed. Tony grabbing take-out more often when it was his turn to cook. Skipping the gym, or not wanting to get up for a run.

Ty hadn’t really clocked it, he was busy himself, but thinking back there was a definite change over the last couple of months.

“I booked him a follow up with the doctor he saw last year. I’ll go with him. I’ll make sure the doctor is aware of everything you’ve just told me.”

“I don’t like sneaking around behind his back, but I’m worried and Tony mostly just brushes it off.”

Ty kissed her cheek. “It’s fine. Thanks for telling me, Polly. I’ll get it checked out I promise.”

-X

Early afternoon on Friday, Ty walked over to the bench where Tony was sat scowling and handed him melty mint choc chip ice cream.

He sat down as well and licked at his strawberry. Trying to ignore both how the sight of Tony’s tongue licking through the ice cream was turning him on. And that Tony was still in a strop, and it might take more than ice cream.

Tony had not been pleased when Ty had asked for a moment with the doctor and had promptly given him a rundown of the things he was concerned about.

He hadn’t been pleased that Polly had squealed on him.

Even Ty had to admit that the doctor had clearly not had any intention of doing anything more than chat before Ty had shared his concerns. Then the gloves had come out.

He finished his ice cream and turned to look at Tony, who was steadfastly ignoring him. Looking towards the sea lion enclosure where someone was loudly demanding fish. Like, right the hell now.

“I love you,” he said.

Tony didn’t move. Just pursed him lips.

“So much.”

Tony sighed.

“Even more than skinny, triple hazelnut syrup, dairy free, decaff, double shot latte with whipped cream on top, but only one squirt.”

Tony cracked up at such a ridiculous idea. “Idiot. And you mostly drink it black.” He sighed again as Ty slipped across the bench and lay his head on his shoulder. “I’m fine, Ty. It’s just been busy at work.”

“Can we please be sure of that. Like 100%. Because I love you.”

Tony tipped his head to rest on Ty’s, and he knew he was forgiven. He took a few moments and then sat back up, holding his hand out to Tony.

“Let’s go and see the snow leopards again before you have to go to work.”

The weekend passed quickly and Ty was rehearsing again in the club on Tuesday when Tony appeared.

He heard Frank call out, “Hello, handsome.” And turned to see him pulling Tony down for a cheek kiss.

“Hi Frank.”

“You come to watch the rehearsal?”

“Actually, I need a quick word with Ty.”

“What’s up?” Ty wandered over and gave Tony a smacking kiss. Mostly to make Frank laugh, although Tony had been sleeping when he left this morning, so it was for him as well.

“Are you busy? You are. You’re tied up.”

Ty noted Tony’s agitation, as did Frank who ran a hand down his arm to soothe.

“It’s coming together,” Ty motioned at the dancers taking a break on the stage. “What’s happened?”

“Dr Miles called. He asked if I could go in to the clinic. He asked if you could come as well. But you’re busy.”

“Did he say why?” Ty asked, concern making his throat tight.

Tony shook his head. “No, but he was pretty insistent.”

“Now?” Ty asked, raking his hand through his hair.

Tony nodded.

“It’s all good. Fred can carry on rehearsing them,” Frank confirmed. “I’ll get you a cab.”

Ty looked at Frank, who was clearly concerned, and also stubborn.

“Thanks. I’m sorry, Frank.”

“It’s fine. You go,” Frank gave both men a big reassuring smile as they left, but his eyes were dark with worry and he shivered with an uncomfortable premonition as they left to meet the taxi.

-X

Doctor Miles smiled as they entered. “Tony, thanks for coming in. Ty, good to see you.” He shook hands with both of them, but instead of guiding them to his desk, he ushered them towards a small group of comfy seats by the window. New York going about its business far below and Central Park like a green oasis.

“Take a seat. I have some answers about why you’ve been getting more tried, not less and the bruising.” He sat with them, almost knee to knee. Tony’s heart started to race. “Tony, I find it’s best just to come straight out with these things.”

“Am I sick?” he reached out blindly for Ty on his left and felt his hand gripped.

Dr Miles took his right hand and fisted it tight in both of his. “You have leukaemia.”

Dr Miles and Ty kept his hands tight in theirs as he crumpled forwards with a whoosh of air. He felt like he had been punched in the stomach. “Oh. Oh shit.”

His gut cramped in panic and he couldn’t get air in. “I’m gonna be sick.”

“Here.” Pushing Tony’s shaking body into Ty’s arms, Dr Miles poured a glass of iced water and held it to Tony’s lips. “Just sip. Small sips. That’s it. Few deep breaths, you’re doing great. That’s it.”

Gradually Tony came back to himself a bit. Ty’s hard body holding him close. His arms tight around him. Dr Miles rubbing his wrist and offering the water again. He took it this time, in shaking hands, and drank some more.

“Sorry. I’m sorry.”

“Nothing to apologize for. It’s a hell of a shock.”

“Am I going to die?” Tony seemed to have lost control of his own voice. He felt Ty jerk at his whispered question.

Dr Miles took his hand again and looked intently into his eyes. “We are going to do our very best to make sure that doesn’t happen. That we includes me and your medical team. It also includes Ty, and you, and all of your friends and family. Okay?”

Tony nodded mutely.

Dr Miles’ gazed moved to Ty, “You okay there, Ty?”

“Not really.”

Tony heard the tremor in Ty’s voice and with a faint sound, that was really just fear, he wriggled around to hug him. They wrapped around each other and clung. Neither man spoke. Not a word. Just held each other and breathed, both trembling.

Tony had no sensation of time passing, but it was ten minutes later that Dr Miles came back in and cleared his throat. “Sorry guys. I’m sorry, but we have to move it along,” he said. Not without sympathy.

Tony mumbled some sort of apology and manoeuvred back to his own seat, his hand still clasped in Ty’s.

“I’m not rushing you out of my office, Tony. But there’s some things we need to get moving on.” He leaned forward, his face serious, but calm. His manner reassuring.

“I’m going to give you the basics today. Just the bullet points. There’s no point going into too much detail because you won’t remember it.”

Ty pressed Tony’s hand to his own thigh and took out his phone.

“Who are you texting?” Tony asked him.

“No one. I’m taking notes.”

“That’s a great idea, Ty. And you’re welcome to record our conversations rather than try and type and listen, but for today you don’t need it. This is really basic, and here,” he held up some papers. “Everything I’m going to say is already here. You don’t need to take notes today. We’ll meet in a few days.”

“Okay, thanks.” Ty said, and dropped his phone, taking Tony’s hand back in his. They both looked to Dr Miles, who looked back with sympathy at their terrified expressions.

“Okay. The hardest bit first. At the current time there is no cure for leukaemia.”

Tony pressed his lips together, anything to stop from breaking down completely. He felt Ty’s hand clench on his, but then Ty’s lifted his hand and brushed his lips to his knuckles.

“In case you are unsure. Leukaemia is a type of cancer, a cancer of the blood, but there are lots of different types. We need to do more investigations, but so far your test results suggest that you may have a certain type of leukaemia known as HCL. If that’s the case, it’s positive news. But it’s rare. Very rare and even more so in a man of your age.”

He paused briefly, but no one interrupted him. “I’m not going into more detail on possible diagnosis or outcomes now. There’s no point until we know what we are dealing with. I appreciate I’m asking you to trust me. I’m asking a lot. I don’t want either of you googling this. Not before we’ve met again and have some answers.”

They both nodded.

“Not good enough,” Dr Miles said sternly. “Tony, I want your word you won’t go looking for information. Promise me.”

Tony took a breath. “I promise,” he said shakily. “I’d really rather get my information from you.”

“Good man. Ty?”

Ty wanted to shrink into the chair as the sharp blue eyes lasered in on him. “Okay.”

“Your word.”

“Fine, I promise. My word. But we’re meeting soon?” Ty demanded.

Dr Miles nodded. “Okay. Thank you. You’ve heard of MSK?”

They both nodded.

“Good. There’s a cab waiting downstairs for you. You are going over there now to meet my colleague Dr Rodriguez-Pedersen. She and her team are going to run some more tests. The most important is a bone marrow test. She’ll explain everything to you in full. It’s not very pleasant, but it won’t be painful. It may be a little uncomfortable. You have a question?” He looked at Ty.

“Is that from the spine?” Ty asked slightly breathlessly.

“No. No it will be taken from Tony’s hip.” He saw Tony frowning. “Tony?”

“I have to go to work. We have a show tonight,” Tony’s voice faded as Ty mumbled, “Tony.”

Dr Miles placed a comforting hand on Tony’s arm. “Tony. You’re not working tonight. In fact, considering the nature of your job, you need to tell them not to expect you back before Saturday.” He thought, “Wait, is there a matinee?” Ty nodded.

“Saturday evening. If the soreness has worn off. Not before.”

This seemed to be too much for Tony who just covered his face, dragging in deep breaths.

“Baby,” Ty moved and crouched in front of him, rubbing his thigh.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry.”

“No I’m sorry, Tony. I wish I could give you time to adjust, but right now I need information so I have to push you.” Dr Miles shared a sorrowful look with Ty.

“Tony,” Ty said softly. “All you need to do right now, is come downstairs with me and get in a cab. That’s all. Can you do that?”

“But, I need to call in, and what if..”

Ty shook his head. “No. Downstairs and cab. Let’s break it down into small chunks, okay? I’ll text Polly she’ll deal with the show.”

“Can I have some water?”

Dr Miles passed Tony the glass and he gulped some water before looking up.

“Don’t you dare apologise to me again,” Dr Miles said in a fake mad voice, actually making Tony laugh a little.

“Okay then. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

Tony looked at Ty and just nodded.

“Come on then,” Ty said, taking the paperwork from Dr Miles and scanning it. “Fifth floor, main reception?”

“Yes, you’re expected. I’ll call and update them.” Dr Miles shook Ty’s hand again. Tony seemed too delicate so he just softly patted his arm. “I’ll see you both in a few days. We’ll be in touch with timings.”

Ty nodded and led Tony out, where Dr Miles’ clinic nurse was waiting to take them down to the cab.

Tony just fell into Ty’s arms in the cab. Ty pulled him in and texted quickly behind his back. There were hours before curtain up. Plenty of time for Polly to notify everyone.

‘Polls. Can’t say much. Pls don’t ask. Tony sick. Needs tests now. Can’t wait. Going to MSK. Dr says no work b4 sat eve. Maybe longer. It’s bad. Will talk later. Pls sort understudy & tell I will explain asap.’

Fifteen minutes later his phone buzzed with a reply. ‘Spoke with Francesca. She said no rush. All okay here. I love you both.’

He could always rely on Polly. She would be freaking out, but wouldn’t push. Francesca was the stage manager and remained calm always.

He kissed Tony’s hair. “Everything’s okay at the theater. Francesca knows. She’s fine.”

Tony pushed up out of Ty’s lap. He wiped his face and sniffed, “What am I going to do?”

Ty pulled him closer and kissed him, so softly Tony could hardly feel his lips. “You’re going to get out of this cab and we’re going to find the main reception on the fifth floor.”

“That’s all huh? It is over then?”

“That’s all you need to worry about right now, because I’m going to worry about the next step,” Ty told him.

Tony sighed as they pulled up at the hospital. “Okay.”

-X

Dr Rodriguez-Pedersen was a fireball of energy.

In contrast to her name, her accent was pure Downton Abbey. She just about scrapped 5 ft 2, was in her 50’s and was possibly Chinese.

“Tony,” she bounced over and grabbed his hand. “I’m so sorry to meet in these circumstances, but thank you for coming so quickly.” She turned to Ty. “You must be Ty.”

“Yes, Hi,” he said finding his hand squeezed in a shockingly strong grip.

“Hello. Come this way.” Taking Tony’s arm she led them down a corridor. “I’m not going to ask how you’re feeling because I know you must be devastated and frightened. I try not to ask my patient’s stupid questions. It makes me look like a dimwit and it’s bloody annoying for them.”

To his shock, Ty found himself smiling when Tony sent a wide eyed glance over his shoulder. The lady might have little legs but she moved fast. Ty hustled to keep up.

“I’m going to take terrible advantage of you though. I do hope you won’t be offended,” she continued, as they turned into what was obviously her office.

“Um,” was all Tony managed as she indicated a seat.

Ty sat as well, at her direction, and she perched on the desk rather than take a seat behind it.

She observed them for a moment. Then. “Right. The two of you are clearly still in shock so I’ll go first. My name is Dr Yan Mildred Rodriguez-Pedersen. Yes I know, it’s a terrible mish mash. Confuses everyone. I’m Vietnamese by birth, raised in the UK. Milton Keynes. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have a roundabout fetish. Do you know what a roundabout is?”

They both shook their heads.

“Never mind. I’m sure you have some, but no one uses proper terminology here. I’ve been in the US since I was twenty-one. I’m bloody well not losing my accent. I’ve worked as a specialist doctor at MSK since 2001. My career prior to that was extraordinary, but I won’t dazzle you with it. I have one husband, three children, two cats and a dog. I like baseball and proper football. Occasionally I like my children. Any questions?”

“Hundreds,” Tony managed. “I just can’t think of any right now.”

Ty snorted with laughter and Dr Rodriguez-Pedersen smiled in delight. Tony looked slightly shocked at himself, but then smiled.

“We’re going to get along splendidly,” she said, patting Tony’s knee.

“Actually, Dr Rodriguez-Pedersen. I have a question,” Ty started.

“Sorry, should have said. Everyone calls me Dr Yan. Saves time.”

“Oh, great. Great,” he repeated with feeling, making her laugh. “I was thinking, in the cab. Is Tony going to be covered okay for this? I mean his cover is via my employer, but he has his own, through work.”

Dr Yan glanced over some paperwork. “You’re an actor/dancer?” she asked Tony.

“Yes.”

“Do you need to phone anyone? You won’t be able to dance for at least three days.”

“I’ve let them know,” Ty confirmed. “Dr Miles said hopefully Tony can go back for the Saturday evening.

She nodded. “Good. Perfect. Should be fine. Best to carry on as normal as possible for now.” She scribbled something on the paperwork and then looked back at them.

“In answer to your question, Ty. No. Stick with Engagement’s cover. It’s gold. Actually it’s platinum. Hence why these tests are happening through this afternoon and evening and not next week.”

She looked between them. “How do you prefer to refer to each other. Life partner’s? Boyfriends?”

Tony looked at Ty a question in his eyes.

“We’re getting married,” Ty declared. Then glared at Tony as if daring him to dispute it.

Dr Yan passed Tony a tissue as the tears started.

“We were going to be married,” he sobbed. “Oh God.”

“Life partner is fine for the paperwork,” Ty said, and then again crouched in front of Tony. “And we are getting married.” He silenced Tony’s reply with a hard kiss.

When he sat back in his chair, leaving Tony looking at him in shock, the doctor winked at him. “I like your attitude, Ty. That’s what we need.”

She then focused on Tony again. “We are going to rather bombard you with tests today. Probably some of them will be repeats of what Dr Miles has already done, so apologizes for that. I’m going to ask if you would be willing for us to set aside information for research purposes. I’m not asking you to make a decision about that today, but I’m hoping you will let me gather the data and we will have a proper conversation about what I would plan to do with it once your brain is back in gear. Is that okay? I’ll beg if it helps.”

“No it’s fine if it helps you. I don’t mind.”

Ty raised his hand. “This is going to seem like an insensitive question.”

“Stop right there, Ty. There is no such thing as insensitive between us. If we are going on a journey together you both ask what you need to know. You can be damn sure I’ll be doing the same.”

“It’s just you seem a little excited. Not that Tony’s sick, I don’t mean that.” Ty sighed as Tony looked at him in horror. “I don’t know how to explain.”

“Don’t worry, I understand. As it happens I’m always like this. Drives my husband crazy. He teaches yoga, the original zen-man, can you believe?” She grinned as Ty clearly found this hard to believe.

“I do understand what you are getting at. I hate anybody being sick and if I could cure all cancers tomorrow and put myself out of a job, I would be thrilled. However, I’m not going to lie. If Tony has what we think he has, it’s rare, and every opportunity to study it brings us a step closer.”

“To putting yourself out of a job?” Tony asked.

“Exactly.”

“If it helps, you can have whatever you need,” Tony confirmed.

“Good man.” Dr Yan stopped at a knock on the door, “Come in. Ah, Catherine, wonderful.”

A young female nurse came in and smiled at Tony and Ty, reaching for Tony’s hand. “Mr Thomas, I’m Catherine, it’s good to meet you. I’m going to be guiding you through some tests.” She held out her hand to Ty. “Mr Maka, hello.”

Ty stood to shake, realizing that this familiarity with who they were was engineered to make it as easy as possible for people who were basically going through hell.

“Ty and Tony is fine. Hi, Catherine.”

“Wonderful. Dr Yan, am I okay to get started? Radiology are waiting.”

“Blast. Why did they have to be on time when I’m not,” Dr Yan looked at Tony who was looking worried. “In answer to the question you’re about to ask. Yes, Ty can go with you for some of the tests, but not these. Catherine is going to take you for some scans. Now, of course Ty could stand in the corridor looking suave and handsome, but it’s a far better use of his time for me to get started on the paperwork with him here.”

She moved and crouched down to Tony’s level. “We’re going to be good friends, Tony. So I’m asking you to skip the get to know each other and trust me straight away. Can you do that?”

“How long will I be?”

“A couple of hours,” Catherine told him kindly. “I’ll get you back to Ty as soon as I can.”

Ty caught Dr Yan giving him the ‘look’. He pushed down his own concerns. Guessing it was up to him to be the strong one again.

“Come on,” he stood and pulled Tony to his feet. “You know about scans even if you’ve never had one, I can’t come with you. Let me help Dr Yan here and I’ll see you soon.”

Tony blinked and dragged in a shaky breath. Placing his hand in Catherine’s almost like a kid. Ty’s heart broke a little. He looked so shocked and scared and vulnerable.

“Hey,” he called softly, and pulled Tony back for a soft, brief kiss. “I love you. I’m right here.”

Tony leaned into his neck but then stood back, a deeper breath this time. “I love you. So much. I’ll see you in a bit.”

Two hours passed quickly, although Ty’s head was pounding until Dr Yan fetched him some painkillers.

They went through Tony’s medical history, family history, contacts, form after form.

Dr Yan explained the scans that Tony was having and that they would take more bloods, some of which would repeat tests that Dr Miles had already done.

“He’s going to go home feeling like a battered pincushion, I’m afraid,” she told him. And then explained how to look after the biopsy site.

Paperwork done, apart from things for Tony to sign, they chatted about other things while sharing a sandwich. She, like Dr Miles, would not be drawn on a more detailed prognosis before the tests results were in.

By the time her phone rang, it was 8pm and Ty realized with relief she was not only a lovely (if slightly nuts) person, but was also very good at her job.

It was hard to concentrate on panicking while discussing ancestor worship, or whether the Yankees had paid too much for their new shortstop.

“Hello, Catherine,” she listened for a moment and then frowned. “Well it’s no problem, we’ll come down now, but it’s not usually needed. Never mind, we’re on our way.”

“Problem?” Ty asked, as they left the office at her normal speed. Which appeared to be warp-speed.

“No, just odd. Catherine asked if you could chaperone Tony for an exam. It’s fine, I just thought with his job he would have been happy for her to chaperone. Performers aren’t usually shy.”

“He is, a bit,” Ty admitted.

“How long have you been together?”

“Eight years now. Tony was only nineteen when we met. He finished college young because he’s in one of those weird age bracket things.”

“Like born a day later he would have been a year behind and graduated when he was twenty?”

“Pretty much.”

“Hmm, my son’s the same. It’s tough. He’s a little shy as well.”

They knocked and entered a clinic room where Tony was sat on an examination couch in a hospital gown.

Ty walked over and kissed him. He could see the need in Tony’s face for contact and reassurance. “How do you make that outfit look sexy?”

Tony laughed a little and blushed, but didn’t let go of his hand.

A male nurse had joined the group and came over now with some vials. Ty assumed they were blood specimens.

“I’m going to take these down to the lab, Dr Yan. I’ll grab whoever’s handy and be back to assist with the biopsy shortly.”

“Oh,” Yan seemed confused. “I thought Ty was chaperoning you performing the prostate exam?”

“Ty is chaperoning me doing the exam,” Catherine explained.

“I didn’t think it was appropriate for me to do it,” the young man said.

“We know each other,” Tony said quietly. “Craig’s come to see me in all my shows, he’s my best ever fan.” Craig beamed at the statement.

“Oh I see.” Dr Yan nodded at the young nurse. “Thank you for that, Craig. That’s a good call.”

He smiled, “I’ll be back soon.” Giving Tony’s shoulder a quick reassuring squeeze and a nod to Ty, he left.

“Why don’t you come this way, Ty,” Catherine motioned him around the couch. “Tony, lie on your side for me.” Ty moved and sat holding Tony’s hands in his. His thumb rubbing the inside of Tony’s wrist.

“You doing okay?”

“I’m a mess, Ty.”

“It’s allowed,” Ty reached and pushed Tony’s hair back softly. “We’re going to get through this.”

Dr Yan was to one side, preparing some equipment, and keeping an eye on things. “Are you happy for Craig to assist this evening? It’s not an issue if not.”

Tony shook his head. “It’s fine, Dr Yan. I know for a fact that Craig’s seen all there is to see. I had a wardrobe malfunction during a benefit once. He was kind enough to get some of his pictures printed for me,” he added sarcastically.

“Oh. THAT Craig,” Ty said, with a grin.

“Just lift your right leg up for me. Oh, jeez, not quite that high, Tony,” Catherine’s eyes widened.

“You not auditioning for the Rockettes,” Ty told him and Tony giggled.

“It’s just that neither of us were comfortable with this,” Tony continued. Then, “Whoa. Oh. Shoot.” He hissed out a breath.

“Relax, Tony,” Catherine said softly.

“Yea, and don’t shoot. I’m sat right here,” Ty added, causing all four of them to crack up.

“Jesus, Ty!” Tony was bright red.

Catherine, still chuckling, called over to Dr Yan. “All good here, nothing concerning.” She slipped gently out, snapped off her glove, and pulled Tony’s gown down to cover his butt. “Just relax there a moment.” She joined Dr Yan and made some notes on Tony’s file.

“If it helps,” Ty said. “I’ve never noticed anything changed, or strange. You know with. Um. That.”

“It’s a bit different when you do it, Ty,” Tony muttered.

Dr Yan grinned. “One would hope so, but yes, that’s useful to know. Thank you, Ty.” She added more notes.

Shortly afterwards there was a discreet knock on the door and Craig came back with another male nurse. This guy was taller than Ty.

Dr Yan came over to Tony and Ty. “Right. The last thing for today is the biopsy. As I’ve already explained I’m going to use a needle to take two samples from inside of the bone in your hip. You’ll have a very small puncture wound. Ty has all the aftercare instructions.”

“Can Ty stay with me?”

“He can sit over there. You’ll be able to see him. But there’s not room for him to stay right here and we need him over there to help prevent infection, I’m sorry Tony.”

Tony nodded miserably.

“You’re on your left side now. Is that normal for you?”

Another nod.

Dr Yan placed a hand on Tony’s hip in reassurance. “It’s not particularly pleasant, but it won’t be painful as such. There may be some discomfort and it’s a little strange. Craig and Henry will be holding you still for me. We will all be rather looming over you, I’m afraid. But we’ll make sure you can see Ty at all times, okay?”

“Thank you,” Tony sounded so scared, Ty wanted to pick him up and run.

Catherine placed a sheet over Tony’s legs and lifted the gown. Exposing just his hip. He jumped a little when she cleaned the skin. “Sorry, it’s a little cold.”

Dr Yan moved around to the other side of Ty. “It’s going to take approximately thirty to forty minutes. Ty can stay here while I start the sedation.”

Tony allowed her to place his left arm, with the cannula, where she needed it. But gripped Ty’s hand hard with his right.

“I’m right here, Baby,” Ty told him. Having to force his voice past the fear that seemed to be blocking his throat.

He kept his eyes on Tony’s. Watching the frown, then the blinking, then the slight haze as the sedation quickly took effect.

“Ty, we need you to move back now,” Catherine said kindly.

He quickly pressed his lips to Tony’s, then moved to the stool out of the way. Tony’s eyes, although slightly blurry, didn’t leave his.

They stayed locked as Craig and Henry moved in to hold him still. As Catherine monitored the readouts and held his free hand, murmuring encouragement.

Dr Yan moved behind Tony and Ty saw him flinch slightly, but his eyes stayed on Ty’s.

The procedure continued and Tony seems to be trying to speak.

“Stay still, Tony,” Catherine told him and leaned closer. “What’s that?”

“I don’t like it. I don’t like this,” Tony semi-slurred, sounding upset and Ty saw the nurses tighten their grip and Dr Yan wince sympathetically.

“I’m sorry, Tony. I’m nearly done.”

“Is he in pain?” Ty demanded.

“No,” Catherine told him. “But it’s a horrible sensation and some people are more aware than others. You’re doing so well, Tony,” she added.

Ty felt helpless as he saw Tony’s eyes fill and his lip tremble. Oh God. Why was this happening? Tony had never done anything to deserve this. He wanted to punch something.

“Okay. Done.” Dr Yan stepped back and Tony was released, but Catherine reminded him to stay still.

Craig cleaned and dressed the small wound, and then Catherine motioned Ty over. “Here you go, Tony. You can have Ty back now. Just rest there a little.”

Ty pulled Tony close to him and stroked his hair, kissed his cheek and murmured how awesomely fucking brave he was, as Tony let his head rest on Ty’s arm and closed his eyes for a while.

After around twenty minutes the sedation started to wear off a little and Tony raised his head. “I’m so thirsty,” he told Ty quietly, but Catherine heard.

“You can have some water now, Tony. Let’s sit you up.”

She adjusted the couch and gave Tony and Ty some water.

“Does it hurt?” Ty asked.

Tony shook his head. “I can’t feel anything.”

Dr Yan came over having finished preparing the sample and sending it off with Craig.

“Your hip will be numb for a while. But bloody sore for the next few days. Don’t try and do too much too fast. As I said before, the sedation will hang around a little. So best to go home and sleep it off.”

“But I can go to work on Saturday?” Tony asked, and Ty rolled his eyes.

“If you feel well enough. I trust that as someone who knows and respects his body as well as you do, you will be sensible.”

“Oh, he will,” Ty agreed in a warning tone.

Fifteen minutes later, both shell-shocked, they were back in a cab on their way home with strict instructions to rest and an appointment to meet on Friday for the results and to make plans.

Their hands were interlinked, but they were silent. What was there to say?

-X

Ty had been watching Tony sleep for over half an hour. Not thinking at all. Just shut down, when he saw his phone light up.

He sighed and reached for it. It was Frank. ‘Can I come up? Or c u in the morning.’

Ty texted back. ‘I’m just grabbing a shower. Tony sleeping. Let yourself in. Few mins.’

He dragged off his clothes, feeling about a hundred years old and quickly showered.

Still numb, he pulled on sweatpants and a T-shirt. Checked on Tony, still sleeping, and walked into the main room.

Frank was dressed similarly to him, on the couch, sipping from a bottle of water. He had clearly been waiting for them to get home. He just took one look at Ty and opened his arms.

Ty’s stomach cramped in agony, his face crumpled and he staggered into Frank’s arms. Half on the floor, half in Frank’s lap. He felt the strong arms gripping him as he sobbed.

Frank didn’t hush Ty, or rock him, or rub his back. He gave comfort by simply holding him tight and letting him cry it out.

He desperately wanted to know what was going on. Ty was shaking so hard with sobs, it was like he might break apart. Every breath shuddering in and out like despair. He just held on.

Finally, after nearly an hour, the intensity started to ease slightly and Ty lay limp. Tremors still racking his body, but clearly exhaustion was starting to take over now. Frank was relieved, he had been starting to become really concerned.

With a sudden awareness, Frank looked up and saw Tony stood watching. He was pale, his eyes shadowed, and as he watched Ty he looked unbearably sad.

Ty was still draped half over Frank’s lap and left arm. But his right arm was available. Frank lifted it and Tony, his own face wet, quickly snuggled under Frank’s arm, leaning against his chest with a shaky sigh.

Frank squeezed him close and kissed his hair. He didn’t know why these boys were hurting, but he was scared.

“Did he tell you?” Tony whispered, threading his fingers into Ty’s hair.

“No.”

Frank looked at Tony’s exhausted eyes. The usually beautiful hazel without the normal cheeky twinkle and Frank wondered at the hopelessness.

“I have leukaemia.”

Frank jerked in reaction. Feeling the same gut punch sensation that had hit Ty.

“No. Oh, Tony. No.”

Tony just let his head fall back against Frank’s shoulder. “I’m so scared.”

Frank’s cheeks were already wet. He pulled Tony closer, pressed his lips to his forehead, and just left them there until Tony let out a little giggle. “Frank, you’re getting me wet.”

“I never expected to hear you say that.”

“Oh, shut up!”

Their chuckles brought Ty back to himself and he quickly roused when he saw Tony. “You should be sleeping.”

“I woke up.”

Ty with Frank’s encouragement climbed properly on to the sofa and tucked himself under Frank’s other side. He linked hands with Tony and they just sat, letting themselves be held by the large man and trying to comfort each other.

It was late. Ty and Tony were both exhausted so Frank didn’t push for more information, he just held on determined not to break down. He could do that in his husband’s arms when he went home. When Tony’s head started to drop again he roused them, “Come on, I’ll tuck you both in.”

He proceeded to do just that, with instructions to come round for breakfast whenever they were ready in the morning.

Ty stripped to his boxers and slipped into the bed just as Frank was leaning over kissing Tony’s hair.

He lay still as Frank moved around, pulled the cover up to his neck before smoothing it, and then gave him the same kiss.

“Both of you, get some sleep. I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Thanks, Frank.”

“Goodnight Frank,” Ty mumbled and lay very still. Listening to the footsteps cross their living room and then the door being pulled closed. A Beat. Another. Then, “That was weird.”

Tony pushed the covers down and turned over to face Ty, “That was so weird. Oh my God.” They both surprised themselves by giggling a little.

“Christ,” Ty ran a hand down his face. “He’s such a Mom!”

“Why are we whispering?” Tony asked.

“In case he hears us and comes back to ground us, of course.”

Ty smiled at Tony’s laugh, sad when it faded back into a kind of exhausted terror.

“Come on,” Ty said as he pulled Tony against him. “Sleep.”

-X

A honking horn slammed through Ty’s window and woke him with a jerk the following morning.

He started to mumble a complaint and turn to Tony, but with an instant nausea the previous day came flooding back and he turned his head more cautiously.

The bed was empty. “Tony!” he yelled, panic in his voice as he threw the covers back and came to his feet. “Tony.”

“What?” Tony flew out of the bathroom, toothbrush in mouth, his eyes searching the room. “Whapswong?”

Ty grabbed him around the waist and held on, “You were gone.”

Tony rolled his eyes, pointing at the toothbrush. “Christ, Ty. I thought there was a spider on the bed or something.” He grinned as Ty full body shuddered.

“Don’t suggest such terrible things.”

“I need to spit.”

Tony moved back to the bathroom, followed by Ty who watched him as he spat and cleaned his brush.

“How are you feeling?”

Tony shrugged. “I feel numb to be honest. Like my head’s floating above my shoulders. You know, like it’s not real. I suspect the fear is going to come crashing back soon, so I’ll enjoy the floaty numb while it lasts.” He eyed Ty in the mirror. “How are you?”

Ty frowned. “I’m fine. I’m not the one who’s ill.”

“You’re fine. Right. Is that why we came from the bedroom to the bathroom with you clinging to my waistband like we were roped together to conquer Everest?”

Ty huffed and released Tony, stepping back, his hands in the air.

Tony smirked a little and turned to face him, leaning back on the sink. “My hip is sore, it feels really bruised and I want a shower.”

“Twenty four hours.”

“Damnit,” Tony sulked.

Ty smiled slightly at Tony’s frowny face. “Tell you what. Let me clean my teeth so I can kiss you silly, then I’ll help you get cleaned up.”

“The kiss’ll be nice, but I’m not going to feel clean without a proper shower,” Tony complained stubbornly.

“I promise you’ll feel better. I’ll use my tongue.”

Tony laughed and screwed his face up at the same time. “I honestly don’t know if that turns me on or off.”

Ty just waggled his eyebrows suggestively as he cleaned his teeth.

“Don’t scrub so hard,” Tony said absently. Noticing for the first time, which proved how distracted he was, that Ty was naked.

“You know what?” Tony wondered as Ty finished up. He moved behind him and caged him against the sink. “I think you should stay right there.”

“Here?” Ty frowned at his own reflection.

Tony nodded and reached for the lube. “I want you to watch yourself.”

Ty was well used to looking at himself. Dance class, the gym, getting ready to go on stage. His reflection held no surprises for him.

Still, it was a surprised look on his face when Tony dropped to his knees behind him and used his big hands to spread Ty’s cheeks, before giving him a hard, slow lick.

“Oh, no. Tony!”

Tony sniggered as he uncapped the lube and started drizzling. Dabbing little licks and kisses on Ty’s butt.

“It’s okay. I was just teasing you.” Ty loved rimming, but very rarely let Tony return the favour. “I’m gonna make you cum hard though,” he promised as he slid the first finger deep.

Ty gripped the shelf and gasped. Prostate, direct hit. “Jesus, warm me up a little.”

“Nope.” Tony added another finger, then snapped. “Eyes open. Watch yourself.”

Ty’s eyes opened wide and he had the strange sensation of watching his own cheeks flush. His eyes go hazy, mouth slack, as Tony’s stroked and caressed him to a shockingly fast climax.

Which unfortunately dribbled itself all down the front of the sink and bathroom cabinet.

“Oops,” Tony winked, before handing Ty a cloth and swaggering out, leaving Ty gasp-chuckling behind him.

-x

Breakfast was waffles, fruit and coffee. Cal was in charge today. Generally he was nowhere near as tactile as Frank, but he opened the door to Ty and Tony and just dragged them in to a big group hug.

As they settled at the breakfast bar, it was clear that Frank had not had a restful night.

Cal kissed Frank’s cheek in passing, and went for the coffee, before bluntly starting with. “Right, tell us what you know.”

They explained all the tests the day before. When Tony described the bone marrow biopsy, Frank had got up without speaking and come back with an ice pack, smiling for the first time when Tony had sighed blissfully and asked, “Marry me?”

When Ty, who sensibly had taken the paperwork with him, including his extra scribbled notes, had said that the doctors were about 95% sure Tony had a form of leukaemia called HCL both Cal and Frank had sat up straighter and looked at each other excitedly.

“What?” Ty asked.

“HCL? You’re sure?” Cal asked.

“What did they tell you about it?” Frank added.

“They wouldn’t tell us anything,” Tony said. “And we both promised not to look for information. We’ll be meeting later this week, probably Friday, for the results. Dr Yan just said it was positive news if they’re right. I guess I’ll have a bit longer or something.” His voice broke and he covered his face.

“Baby,” Ty reached for him, but Frank got there first.

“Why did they send him away scared?” he hissed at Cal as he gathered Tony into his arms.

“Frank, come on. They can’t risk giving people inaccurate information. You know they can’t. And you know Dr Yan. She’s clearly pushing this through as fast as she can.”

“Wait. You know Dr Yan? How do you know Dr Yan?” Ty demanded.

Frank, who was still cuddling Tony to his chest, opened his mouth but Cal cried, “Stop!”

He looked at Ty and Tony. “If Frank tells you. You have to be aware that the news you get in a couple of days might be even more devastating if it’s not what you want to hear. Do you really want to take that risk?”

Ty and Tony looked at each other for a moment. Then Ty nodded and Tony sat up, patted Frank’s shoulder and looked at Cal. “I understand. Now please, explain how you know Dr Yan.”

Frank moved his stool closer to Tony and sat back down. “HCL is not curable, but it is treatable. With chemo, and if you respond well it can go into, what we would call remission, I guess, for a long time. The average is ten years, but it varies. You have treatment again, it goes away again, maybe not so long but you keep fighting.”

“For how long?” Tony whispered.

“If you’re lucky until you are too old and frail to fight anymore.”

“If you are lucky,” Cal interjected. “You can have a pretty normal life, and life span.”

“How do you know this?” Ty asked again.

“We know someone with HCL. Dr Yan is his doctor.”

Frank leaned forward and took Tony’s shaking hand. “My friend got sick when he was thirty five. He had chemo, recovered, went back to a normal life. He says he’s determined not to need chemo again for as long as possible.” Frank laughed a little. “He’s a stubborn guy, so far he’s doing really well.”

Frank took Tony’s face in his hands and told him, “He’s now fifty. It hasn’t come back yet.”

“Oh God,” Tony half fell against Frank again. “And they think that’s what I’ve got?”

“Tony, Ty,” Cal held up a warning hand. “Don’t forget, it’s a tough fight. But, yes. It could be good news.”

“Oh and Ty’s met him. My friend with HCL,” Frank clarified.

“I have? Who?”

“HJ.”

“HJ! What the gun cop gun guy?” Ty’s mouth fell open.

“It’s called SWAT! Don’t you watch the movies?”

“He’s sick?”

“Not at the moment,” Cal confirmed.

Tony and Ty stared at each other, hope in their eyes. Maybe they still had a chance.

“I have another question. Well a suggestion,” Cal said. “We were talking about this last night.”

Ty had been adjusting his stool so he could sit right behind Tony and hold him from behind. They settled and looked at Cal.

“Your parent’s, Tony. If this isn’t something you want to do over the phone, I’ll go to Philly and tell them, and bring them back.”

“They can stay here,” Frank nodded, “As long as they need.”

“You would do that?” Tony asked, incredibly moved.

“I’m not going to say it would be my pleasure, because, obviously not. But I would be very happy to go and see them. Or send the car if you wanted to tell them yourself, but I want you to take my offer seriously because this is terrifying news to get in a phone call.”

“Maybe I could go to Philly,” Tony wondered.

“No,” Ty and Cal said together.

“Honey, you need to stay near your doctors,” Frank said kindly, patting his knee.

“Shit,” Tony ran shaky hands over his face. “Shit, I don’t know how Mom’s going to cope with this.”

He jumped as his knee got a sharp rap. “I’ve met your mother,” Frank said sternly. “She’s a strong woman, don’t doubt her.”

They let Tony think for a moment. Finally he sighed.

“I know Frank is going to argue this with me, but,” he looked at Cal. “Cal, if you were willing to go and speak with my parents, I know it’s kinder than me calling them, that would be wonderful. But I want to wait until we know exactly what we are dealing with.”

Frank practically growled. “Your parent’s will want to be here now.”

Cal hushed him, rubbing his arm. “Why?” he asked Tony. Ty was looking interested as well.

“Because this is going to scare the hell out of them. They’ve already lost one child. And because this weekend they have a big neighbourhood cookout party, for our neighbour, he’s turning ninety nine. They’ve been planning it for months, but they’ll miss it. It’s on Saturday. We’ll know what’s happening on Friday. Let’s give them an extra day of normal. Please,” he added.

There was a beat of silence, then Cal said, “I think Tony’s right. I’ll go Sunday morning.”

“I agree. All they can do is wait and worry until then,” Ty agreed.

Frank huffed, but then. “Okay, I see your point. But your mom is going to slap you silly.”

“There’s another thing,” Tony admitted. “If they come at short notice, they may have to bring Sneaky.”

“Who’s Sneaky?” Cal asked.

“Their dog,” Ty said grinning. “She’s a sweetie.”

“A puppy!” Frank’s eyes lit up. “Ohhhh.”

“Or she normally stays with my sister.”

“It’s fine if she has to come, we’ve got space and we’re allowed dogs,” Cal reassured him.

“Cal. Don’t you dare come back here without that puppy,” Frank demanded.

“And it seems my husband is quite keen to make Sneaky’s acquaintance,” he deadpanned.

Cal grabbed the coffee pot and topped them all up. “Right, next issue. We’ve got more space here than you’ve got upstairs, and the club if needed. You want to arrange a meeting with your bosses?”

Tony winced.

“They have to know, Tony,” Ty told him.

“It’ll probably be easier to get everyone together and tell them all at once,” Frank suggested quietly.

Tony nodded. “Yea, I guess, I’ll have to call,” he stopped and took a breath. “Um,” stopping again. “I’m sorry, I just need a moment,” he told them before rushing from the apartment.

“Give me Polly’s number,” Cal said to Ty. “I’ll arrange it and text you a time. Go check on him.”

Ty quickly rattled off Polly’s number as he slid from the stool, giving Frank, and more unusually, Cal a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you. So much. I’ll see you later.”

Frank watched him leave and then took a shaky breath. Leaning against his husband as he dialled Polly.

-X

By the end of that day Tony was exhausted.

Every time he thought about what was happening in his body, he became breathless and his heart started to race. Sweat tricking down his back.

The meeting which took place in the empty club, and included MC on speaker phone had taken over two hours.

The stage manager, Francesca, plus Polly, Randall, Isabel, and Adam (who was Tony’s understudy), had all been devastated by Tony’s news.

Francesca had decided that they would have another meeting. Her, Tony, Ty and MC (Who would fly in from London), plus Cal and Frank if Tony wanted, on Friday.

She agreed, after Tony begged, that he could perform as normal from Saturday night, if his hip was feeling okay and he depending on what news he got on Friday.

Ty was grateful that from the start everyone was talking about how long Tony might need sick leave and how they would get him back into it. Randall suggesting that they would need to start thinking about a phased return and how long term health was more important than trying to get back on stage as quickly as possible.

Polly had pretty much just clung to Tony and sobbed for the entire meeting, but Randall had looked him in the eyes, and told him. “Staying as voice ready and physically ready as possible to be ready to start reconditioning and rehearsing to come back. It’s going to be important, and very hard. Are you up for it?”

“Whatever it takes,” Tony responded.

Not one person had suggested that Tony should leave the show.

The meeting had broken up, mainly so Engagement could open and the Empty Nights cast could make curtain.

Ty had taken Tony out for dinner and before they returned to the apartment, as he hadn’t been out all day.

No sooner had they entered the apartment than Tony spun around and pinned Ty against the door. Gripping his hair and kissing him deep.

“I need you. Need to touch you,” he mumbled against Ty’s lips frantically.

“Touch me,” Ty gasped.

Tony ground his crotch against Ty’s. “Need to feel you.”

“I can feel you, Baby,” Ty said, switching their positions and taking back control. “Let me show you.”

He pressed full length against Tony, pulling back when he gasped and winced. “Sorry, forgot about your hip.”

“Don’t care, I need you. Need you inside me, Ty.”

“All right, hush, wait.” Ty gripped Tony’s face and held him still, their foreheads pressed together, just breathing each other’s air. “I’m right here, calm down.”

Ty saw the panic slowly drain from Tony’s eyes. Need replacing it.

“Good, now come with me.”

“That’s what I was hoping you would say,” Tony smiled slightly when Ty laughed.

The frantic pace had slowed to be replaced with a rediscovery. As if they hadn’t touched each other in years, or ever before.

Clothes falling aside. Skin revealed to be worshiped by lips, explored by fingers.

They rolled over the bed, switching positions and gently loving each other, until another awkward move made Tony gasp in pain again.

“Lie back,” Ty instructed, and carefully straddled Tony when he did so. “Time to earn your morning shower,” he teased.

“I can’t fucking wait,” Tony admitted. Despite the fact the Ty had reverently washed every inch of him that afternoon (with cloth and water, not his tongue).

They had already made use of the lube, so being careful of his hip, Ty slowly eased himself down on Tony’s leaking cock.

Taking him in, in one slow move. Sitting for a moment basking in the full, stretched feeling, as Tony’s hands ran over his muscles, his chest and stomach.

“You’re so beautiful,” Tony whispered, grinning when Ty’s face crumpled into an embarrassed smile.

“Man!” he complained, blushing furiously.

“You are.”

Ty shook his head and started to move. Stopping any further comments as all Tony could do was moan and groan.

Strapping down his own urge for a hard, fast fuck, he kept his movements slow and gentle. Watching for any sign of discomfort.

Until Tony’s face twisted with arousal and he jerked, flooding inside Ty and sending him over the edge as well.

Ty fell half over him, keeping his weight away from the large bruise that was showing under the small bandage.

Their breathing slowly calming as Tony’s hand stroked absently through Ty’s hair.

Finally, Ty roused himself enough to reach over and lift the bandage. The skin was bruised but not red or hot.

He looked up at Tony who was watching him curiously. “It’s been twenty four hours. You want your shower?” Laughing as Tony’s face lit up.

-X

Thursday started badly. Tony’s hip was sore and Ty didn’t think either of them had gotten much sleep.

Tony refused to get up at first, so Ty pottered. But at lunchtime he tried again.

“I brought some more painkiller’s but I think we should go and get lunch,” he sat on the bed and stroked Tony’s hair. “We could take in a movie, haven’t had the chance to do that in a while.”

Tony jerked away and growled, “I’m suppose to be on stage.”

Ty sat for a moment. “Okay, I’m sorry,” he said quietly, unable to keep the hurt from his voice and went to leave.

“Ty?” Tony’s shaky voice came just as Ty reached the doorway. He turned back.

“It’s okay. I’ll let you rest.”

“No, please, Ty. Please come back. Please.” Ty hurried over as Tony started shaking with sobs. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to snap at you, I’m just so scared.”

Ty gathered him close soothing him as he cried it out.

Finally Tony shifted, “I think my jag is over for now. Do you still want to go to the movies?”

Ty handed him a tissue and kissed him. “That hardly qualifies as a jag, and anyway you have reason. Yea, let’s go. A gentle walk will loosen you up a bit. But I want action and explosions.”

“Okay, but I want ripped abs and semi nakedness and Mexican.”

“Ripped abs for lunch and Mexican semi nakedness for entertainment it is,” Ty agreed and made him giggle.

Some time later, both appetites satisfied, they wandered slowly back to the apartment.

Tony’s hip was a little better, and Ty had kept him topped up with pain relief.

Before Ty had even locked the door Tony pulled his shirt up and off, his hand moving quickly to his fly.

“What you doing?” Ty asked.

“I’m gonna go sit in the shower a while,” Tony said as he stepped out of his jeans. “I think it will be good for my hip.”

Ty followed slowly. Tony stripping was always a happy sight. He avoided tripping on the abandoned shoes and grinned as the boxers came down. “And what am I doing?”

“I thought you might want to come and kneel in the shower for a while,” Tony suggested, flicking a hot look over his shoulder.

“Hell, yea,” Tony moaned and stripped fast.

Minutes later, with hot water pounding over both of them, Ty sank to his knees in the shower. Having had the foresight to chuck a cushioning towel in.

Tony spread his legs and rolled his head against the shower wall as Ty started to worship him. Mixing deep hard suck, with licks, kisses and nips.

Tony braced and slid his hands into Ty’s hair, unable to hold back from thrusting. “Can I fuck your throat, Babe?”

Ty’s answer was to fist Tony’s hand in his hair and take him deeper. Soon Ty was choking as Tony thrust deep and hard. The water still pounding over them, until with a echoing, “Fuck, yes.” He flooded down Ty’s throat.

After a few hard coughs, Ty found himself dragged up and kissed deeply, as if Tony was chasing his own taste.

“Link your arms around my neck,” Tony instructed and still kneeling, looking down at the water streaming down Tony’s muscled back, Ty cursed and grunted as Tony jacked him to a fast climax.

He was still dazed as Tony washed them both before wrapping a towel around Ty and leading him back to the bedroom.

Some brisk rubs and he was tumbled into the bed and kissed so lavishly it made him laugh.

Grinning, his eyes sparkling, Tony disappeared, coming back with some hot tea.

“Thanks,” Ty croaked, sitting up and reaching for the mug.

“I put honey in it,” Tony advised. “You sound like a frog who just got rough throat fucked.”

Ty relaxed against the pillows and took a slip, before smiling. “I’m pretty sure I look like a frog that just got rough throat fucked, and is supremely satisfied.”

Tony leaned over and gently kissed Ty’s throat. “You okay?”

“I’m great. You haven’t been in the mood for that in a while.”

Tony signed and snuggled into Ty’s side. “Well, I guess we have an idea of why now. I want tomorrow over with, but also I’m not sure I want to know.”

“We need to know what we’re fighting, Tony.” Ty said simply, stretching to place his mug aside. He paused at Tony smiling up at him, head on his chest, “What?”

“I love how you always say we, because we’re in this together.”

“We are.”

“And I love you,” Tony said simply.

Ty simply slid down and took his mouth. Bringing them back together.

-X

First thing Friday morning, Tony, Ty and Frank, presented themselves back at MSK.

The receptionist took one look at Frank and decided to be as awkward as possible. After checking Tony in she looked up at him, “I can see your next of kin is a Gabrielle Thomas, is that your mother?”

“Yes.”

“And is she attending today?”

“No, it’s just us,” Tony explained.

“I’m sorry, your friends will need to wait downstairs. There’s a café. Your meeting is confidential, only next of kin.”

Tony felt his heart fall to his feet. Ty just stood with a look of shock on his face.

“Sweetie,” Frank’s sweetie was extremely sarcastic. “Tony and Ty are engaged. I think you’ll find it’s perfectly proper for Ty to attend.”

“But you’re not actually married?” the woman asked Tony, she was trying hard to pretend Frank didn’t exist.

“Not yet.”

“Then I’m sorry, but there’s nothing I can do.”

At that point Craig came out, his face lighting up when he saw Tony. “Hi Tony, Hi Ty. You’re a few minutes early but they won’t be long.” He stopped in front of Frank, “Hello. Who are you?”

“I’m Frank. I came to support these two. Except according to this little missy here, me and Ty can’t come in.”

“What? That’s ridiculous, of course you can come in.” He turned on the receptionist. “What are you playing at?”

“They’re not next of kin.”

“Tony can have half of New York in there if he wants.”

“Not on my watch. It’s not proper,” she couldn’t help by glance at Ty and Tony’s interlinked fingers and wince.

“Right. Not proper?” Craig leaned over the desk and picked up her phone, before replacing it in it’s cradle. She immediately grabbed some cleaning wipes and wiped it down.

Craig spoke over her shoulder, where Dr Yan had come in. “She does that every time. Thinks if she touches something I’ve touched she’s going to catch gay.”

The receptionist, who was not aware of Dr Yan, hissed back. “Of course you’d be on their side. You’re just like them.”

“What do you mean by that? That I like taking it up the ass?”

Frank snorted out a laugh, but Dr Yan spoke.

“That’s enough, Craig. Wait in my office.” She walked round to the desk and eyed the receptionist. “You can leave. You’ll get paid for today. I want you out of my department.”

“But.”

“You’re an officious little brat who just caused one of my patients emotional harm and it seems have been bullying my staff. Leave now before I call security to remove you.”

With her nose in the air and a final disgusted look at Frank, which bothered him not at all, she stomped out.

Dr Yan pinched her brow. “I’m so sorry. We had to call in a temp, I have a receptionist off sick and another on her holidays.” She sighed, “We’ll find another way.”

Then she looked at Frank and pursed her lips, squinting at him for a moment before her face creased in a smile and she moved forward to shake his hand. “You’re HJ’s ex-partner. I thought I knew you from somewhere.”

“That’s impressive. We only met twice and I was in uniform.”

“I never forget a dashing man,” she said. Then stopped and queried, “Man?”

“Oh yes. I’m all man, just with an unfortunate dress sense.”

“I wouldn’t say that. It’s a lovely frock.” She hustled all three into the large office past Dr Miles who had been standing watching the entire thing with a look of amusement.

As they sat, Craig came over with a tray and handed Ty a cup, speaking gently, “Here you go, Ty. It’s okay now, she was talking garbage. Here’s some coffee.”

Ty blinked a little and seemed to come back to himself, “Thanks, Craig.” Tony was watching him with concern.

“You okay?” Craig rubbed his arm. Ty just nodded and took a sip, then managed to smile, “It’s good, thanks.”

“Strong and black. The way you like you coffee and I like my men,” he said as he handed Tony a coffee and winked at Frank.

Tony manage a small smile. “Thanks, Craig, but I’m sorry to tell you. Frank’s very happily married.”

Craig pulled an exaggerated pouty face at Frank. “Typical. Can I get you anything, Mr Happily Married?”

“I’m fine you sweet boy. I have some water right here.”

“Okay,” he looked at Dr Yan. “Shout me if you need me. I’ll cover reception.”

“You’re an angel. Thanks, Craig.”

When the door closed behind Craig, Dr Miles mused, “Can I steal him? He’s brilliant.”

“Not a chance,” Dr Yan retaliated, perching once again on the desk in front of Tony.

“Now, I know you two are men of your word, so I don’t think you went looking for information, but possibly some information found you?” She raised an eyebrow at Frank, who tried to look shamefaced.

Ty and Tony both nodded. She reached for their hands, taking one in each of hers and squeezed. “It’s HCL.” She squeezed harder when Tony let out a huff of relief. “So let’s talk about exactly what that means and make our plans.”

Tony and Ty were both pleased they had brought Frank as back up. He made copious notes and asked questions they would never have thought of.

Tony was shocked to find he would be starting chemotherapy on a week Monday.

“But, you said if it was HCL it might buy us some time.”

“Yes, Tony. A week.” She looked nonplussed by his question.

“I think Tony is surprised at the speed this is all happening,” Frank observed. “May I ask a couple of questions?”

“Please do.”

“Tony doesn’t need surgery?”

“No.” She looked at Tony, “There’s quite a high chance with HCL that at some point we may need to remove your spleen. But right now yours is absolutely fine, so we’ll go straight for chemo. Do you know what your spleen does?”

“No idea,” Tony admitted.

“I’ll describe it like a filter. It filters out old wonky blood cells and gets rid of them. So as you can probably understand, a blood based cancer and a spleen are not always the best of friends, but we don’t need to worry about that right now.” She looked back at Frank for the next question.

“Is there any reason that Tony can’t continue in the show through next week?”

“Once his hip is okay for him to dance, he can work right up to next Sunday if he wants.”

“Really?”

“Of course,” she moved behind her desk now and sat next to Dr Miles. “Now, let’s coordinate our attack.”

Two hours later, heads reeling and with a follow up appointment with Dr Miles on the following Thursday to go through any questions, they staggered out.

“Drink?” Frank suggested, and they headed for a nearby quietish bar.

Even though it was lunchtime, Frank ordered Sangria’s for him and Tony. He studied Ty for a moment, his eyes narrowed, and then quietly ordered an iced coffee with salted caramel syrup from the waitress.

Ty appeared oblivious, but he blinked and thanked Frank when the drinks came. Tony watched him, brow furrowed.

Frank usually gave Ty space. He didn’t mind a hug or cheek kiss, but didn’t like being handled. Even so, he took Ty’s chin in his hand and turned his head to look in his eyes.

“Talk to us.”

Ty tried to pull away, disconcerted when he realized Frank was holding him just a little too firmly. He either had to accept it or be rude. “I’m fine.”

Now Frank cupped his face and said, so kindly that Ty felt almost like he could sob, “Ty!”

Ty closed his eyes for a moment. The unexpected feeling of Frank’s large thumb caressing his cheek, surprisingly comforting. He felt Tony’s hand grip his bicep, then finger walk down his arm to link their fingers.

“I’m sorry, guys. I’ll be okay. I just felt.” He took a breath, making an effort to pull himself together, “It was just hard.”

Frank backed off, even though he wasn’t fully satisfied. “That woman didn’t help any, like it’s not hard enough.” He blushed a little, visible even through his perfect make-up, “I’m sorry if my outfit set her off, I should have just worn jeans.”

Now Ty did rouse himself. He raised a warning hand. “Don’t you ever, EVER, apologize for someone else’s bad behaviour to us,” His voice shook with fury and tension. “I don’t want to hear that from you.”

Tony squeezed his hand to calm him. “Anyway, Frank. When was the last time you left the house in jeans?” he asked, trying to lighten the mood.

“That would be when scary stalker lady had her claws in you both.”

“Ah,” Tony commented. Ty’s renewed frown suggested his attempted levity had backfired. Tony’s heart wasn’t really in it anyway.

Frank distracted them with Engagement talk until it was time for them to go to the meeting at the theater.

Frank had told the entire team what he knew about HCL, so Tony knew that they all had their fingers crossed that if it couldn’t be some horrible mistake, it would at least be that.

This meeting was just with Francesca, MC and one of the producers. No sooner had Tony entered the room than MC, who had flown in from London, grabbed him in a bear hug.

“Christ, Tony. Christ,” he mumbled. Practically crushing his ribs until he pulled back to let Tony breath. “Tell us.”

“It’s HCL,” Tony confirmed.

“And that’s good news?” MC asked, looking at Frank.

“It’s the news we were hoping for in the circumstances,” Frank confirmed.

Once the initial exclaimed support and horror were over, and Tony explained what his treatment plan was and how soon it was starting, they got down to planning.

Once again everyone was totally supportive, but no one would entertain Tony’s idea of trying to work through chemo.

“We appreciate your dedication, Tony,” Francesca told him. “But it wouldn’t be wise or safe. I know your doctors told you that your immune system will be compromised. For the next several months your health comes before the show.”

“And we wouldn’t be insured,” MC said before Tony could argue further. “Therefore it can’t happen.”

They drew a line at six months. Ty and Frank were reassured by this, even if Tony wasn’t happy.

“You may be able to start preparing before that,” MC said kindly. “But you’re not going back on that stage until you are totally ready.”

-X

It was a surprisingly tiring day, considering they had been sitting around in meetings for most of it. Apart from when they went down to update the cast and Polly cried all over Tony again. Which was all different kinds of exhausting.

Frank persuaded them to come back to his for dinner, which Tony had gratefully agreed to as Ty hadn’t seemed himself all day, and really hadn’t said much at all.

It was after they had eaten. Cal had come back late from a meeting and wanted to be updated, Frank telling him about their day. That Ty was triggered.

Tony had thanked Frank for his help that day, acknowledging that neither he or Ty would have been able to remember half of what they were told, or think up useful questions.

Cal, who had noticed Ty seemed quite withdrawn, reassured Tony that they would be there for whatever he needed, and that of course Ty would be available whenever, they would adjust his workload and work around Tony’s chemo appointments. He wasn’t to worry about that.

Ty, who was sat on the sofa, had sunk his head into his hands at that point. Almost like the weight of everything was just too much.

They all looked at him concerned. Frank and Tony sat either side of him and Tony reached to rub his back, causing Ty to leap to his feet with a loud, “Fuck!” He gripped his hair for a moment and then again. “Fuck!”

“Ty? Honey. Sit and talk to us,” Frank tried in a careful voice.

It was too late, the floodgates had opened. Ty was pacing now, unable to keep still. Alternately rubbing his chest and stomach.

“I can’t stand this. I HATE this. What the hell am I suppose to do? I need to do something.”

“Ty!”

Ty spun suddenly towards Tony, “Let’s get married.”

“What?”

“I mean now. Let’s get married now. Then I’ll be your next of kin and I can be involved. I can come with you. I can have some fucking control, not have to beg for every scrap of information.”

“Ty, slow down,” Tony caught Frank’s eye. They had never seen Ty so upset.

“I just want information, without someone having to check with you. We can do the wedding another time, with everyone. This is just a legality. It’s just paperwork. I can’t just sit and wait. I have to DO something. Christ, I can’t stand this.”

Tony watched in horror as Ty fell to his knees, his arms wrapped around himself as if he were in unbearable pain.

He knelt down and pulled Ty into his arms. “Okay, Ty. Okay.”

“It’s not fucking okay. There is nothing about this situation that is fucking okay.”

“Shhh, that’s not what I meant. I meant okay. Let’s get married now.”

Ty stiffened in Tony’s arms, “What?”

Tony pulled Ty up so he could look into his face. “If that’s what you need, to help you get through this, then okay. We’ll get married. You’ll be my guy, you already are, but no one will be able to argue with you. If you need to be my next of kin then that’s what we’ll do.”

Ty just stared for a moment before all his energy seemed to evaporate. He seemed to melt in to Tony’s arms. “Oh God, I’m sorry.”

“Why? Why are you sorry?”

“I need to handle this. I need to be stronger.”

“Fuck that,” Tony exclaimed and pulled Ty back to his knees. Pushing him slightly away so he could look him in the eye.

“I don’t need you to be strong all the time. I need you to be honest and to be there. If we get married it’s an equal partnership, I won’t accept anything less. You’ll be there for me, I’ll be there for you, that’s how it works. So if you want to get married, we’ll get married, but those are my terms.”

Ty knelt. His eyes were wide, his mouth slightly open. An expression of absolute shock. Frank had to stifle the urge to giggle.

“Yes or no?” Tony demanded. “In or out?”

“In,” Ty gasped quickly, reaching for Tony. “In, I’m in.” He wrapped his arms around Tony who pulled Ty right into his lap. Ty nuzzled his neck and pushed closer. “I’m all in,” he muttered. “I’m sorry, I freaked.”

“That’s been coming on since that stroppy little madam this morning,” Frank told Cal quietly.

“Or before,” he replied. He looked at Ty and Tony and raised his voice. “If you are getting married you’ve got a week.” He reminded them. “Tony might not be fit for much once the chemo starts.”

“No,” Ty shook his head. “I was being an idiot. I wouldn’t even know where to start. There’s no time.”

“Great, he’s changed his mind already,” Tony joked.

“We got married in less than forty eight hours,” Frank said. “Once you have a licence in New York, you just have to wait a day.”

“I know what you said about it just being a formality,” Cal said, “But even so. We need to get your grandparents here.”

-X

Sunday night, Tony came off stage, hip still sore but happy and walked with Polly down the corridor to find Ty leaning against his dressing room door.

“Hey,” he smiled as he was pulled in for a kiss.

“Hi,” Ty said as he ran his hands down Tony’s back and cupped his ass, pulling him close. “Good show?”

“Yea,” Tony moved aside so Polly could get a hug. “I wasn’t expecting to see you until later.”

Ty dropped Polly back down to ground level and nodded at the room. “Advanced warning. Heightened emotions awaiting.”

“Ah!” Tony took a deep breath and swung open the door. Both his parent’s sprang to their feet and grabbed him in a three way hug. His dad was crying.

Ty and Polly came in and closed the door.

“Can’t breathe,” Tony complained and was allowed to step back. He took one look at his dad’s face. “Oh, Jesus. Go sit with Ty,” he suggested as his mom pulled him back down into a gentler hug.

“I’m sorry,” he mumbled into his mom’s shoulder.

She took a breath and pulled back. “You’ll be sorry if you ever keep anything like that from us again,” she warned, but then cupped his face. “Thank you. It was kind, and Cal was wonderful.”

“He explained everything?”

She nodded, “Yes, and Ty told us that you are going to do a blog about your journey, via the Empty nights social media and website. That’s so brave, I’m so proud.”

“Did he tell you,” Tony hesitated and looked at Ty, who nodded.

“That you are going to get married as soon as possible? Yes.” She smiled at Ty, “I think it’s very sensible. We will have our celebration at a later date.”

“It’s so complicated otherwise,” Tony said. “For Ty.”

“It’s fine. I’ll explain everything to your sisters. Ty’s grandparents will be here on Wednesday, and Polly needs to be there, that’s all we need.”

Polly smiled from where she was hugging Tony’s dad.

By the time Tony was showered, changed, and they had walked back to their apartments, Dan had calmed a little.

As they approached the block, Tony couldn’t help but laugh at the unlikely sight of two of the Engagement queens, plus Frank. All dressed up to the nines, cooing over the large and hairy, Sneaky, like she was a cute little pom, rather than the husky, sheepdog mix who was made of muscle.

In fact.

Tony waited until they were a little closer, then put his fingers in his mouth and whistled.

Sneaky’s head came up, then with a loud, low, bark of delight she sprang for him, sending Frank on to his ass.

Tony crouched and found his arms full of excited dog. “Hey girl, hey Sneaky, how ya doing?” She squiggled and lapped at his face.

Ty had his hands on his knees, bent over just laughing as Frank climbed to his feet.

“That was mean,” he said as he approached, the other two queens sniggering at him.

“Sorry, couldn’t resist.”

-X

The week flew. Because of course, the more you feared something the faster it came at you.

Ty and Tony stood and took simple vows on Friday morning, in a tiny room, hardly bigger than an office.

Tony’s parents, Ty’s grandparents and Polly were there, as well as Frank and Cal.

Tony knew he had done the right thing when Ty’s shoulders relaxed from somewhere around his ears the minute they had all signed and witnessed everything and the officiant (who knew the score), said “Congratulations. Ty, you are now legally Tony’s next of kin.”

They hugged, then kissed because Frank and Polly both insisted on documenting the moment. Then the officiant shook Tony’s hand and wished him luck.

They all went for lunch. A quiet, fear filled, celebration. A strange combination of love, hope and terror.

Ty’s grandparents had both hugged Ty and Tony, and promised they would come back if needed. Ty had told them not to stay in New York for weeks of treatment. Then Cal escorted them to the airport, while Frank and Ty headed into the club.

Tony and Polly went to work, trailing his parents behind them like a comet.

Friday night, not long after Tony had got home. Finding a meal prepared for him and his parents. Ty and Frank appeared.

With them was a gentleman who Frank introduced as his good friend, HJ.

He shook Tony’s hand firmly, refused a drink, saying he didn’t want to intrude too long, and then accepted both a drink and a helping of Ty’s lasagne.

“Can’t resist, it smells amazing,” he admitted, before handing Tony some flowers. “I brought you these,” he said. Then he pulled out a bag of chocolate. The same chocolate that Ty had been buying for Tony on the day the store got held up.

“And these,” he grinned, as Tony sat up and licked his lips seeing his favorite chocolate. “And some advice,” he finished.

“Thanks,” Tony took the chocolate. “What advice.”

“Smell the flowers and enjoy the chocolate now, because your sense of taste and smell is about to go down the crapper.”

“Really?”

“Most likely,” HJ said wisely, but then sniffed the plate Gabi set before him and took a blissful bite. Closing his eyes and sighing happily. “But it will come back.”

He took another bite and chewed. “I decided you deserved a treat before you start.”

Tony took some chocolate and then generously offered it around. “Thank you, that’s very kind.”

“You need someone to talk to. Yell at. Ask questions. Something you don’t want to say to Ty. Call me.”

“Thank you,” Tony said again, pausing when HJ took his wrist.

“I mean it.”

“Thank you, HJ.”

“Frank tells me you are doing a blog to raise money for Dr Yan’s research.”

“Yea, well not a load of money. It’s partly a way for people to keep up to date, and partly so people who miss me in the show and see what’s happening. I mean, the show is sold out. Some people get mad when they can’t see the right cast.”

HJ’s snort showed what he thought of that.

Tony grinned, “Yea, well. It’s donation to view, but the donation is anything over 50 cents. I guess it’ll add up over six months. Everything helps, right?”

“It’s a good idea. Brave of you.”

Tony just shrugged, embarrassed.

“Tony’s helping with Dr Yan’s research directly as well,” Ty told HJ. “He had a load of blood tests and investigations just over eight months ago. Including things like exercise tolerance and fitness from his work. Everything was fine then.”

HJ looked up sharply, “They didn’t miss it?”

“No,” Tony reassured him. “There was nothing there.”

“The lab that Tony’s GP used still had some samples. They were behind with their disposal. So those tests from before. Dr Yan is using them to compare with recent bloods in the hope that they can find a breakthrough.”

“See if they can develop an earlier test,” HJ said understanding.

“She’s really excited,” Tony said of Dr Yan.

“I’m not surprised. That’s an interesting opportunity. She’ll be looking at patient’s like me as well. Trying to find a way to detect a recurrence as early as possible.”

“Does it worry you?” Tony asked, then blushed. “Sorry, that’s a thoughtless question.”

“No it’s fine. Thank you,” he said to Ty, having finished the lasagne. “Sometimes it does. If I’m a bit under the weather I start to wonder. But mostly, I figure I’ll deal when it happens.”

“That’s very wise.”

“Oh I’m very wise, young padawan,” HJ acknowledged, making everyone laugh.

-X

Sunday passed in a blur, and suddenly Tony found himself in the second curtain call of the day. Polly clinging to him crying, and Randall calling for the audience’s attention.

They had decided to go public with what was happening because Tony felt it would give him more control.

Rather than fending off speculation and rumors. They would be honest with people, tell them what was happening, and direct them to the website and social media platforms for updates.

Tony knew his parents were in the audience, although he couldn’t see much from the stage. Ty was standing in the wings, where Tony could see him.

He stood, trying not to join Polly in sobbing, as the auditorium grew quiet and everyone looked to Randall.

“I’m sorry to say that I have some sad news to share with you tonight. We are losing one of our best loved, most talented and respected cast members for the next six months.”

A few murmurs started and Tony felt cast members close behind him. A touch on his arm, back or shoulder. Polly just shook, her face drenched with tears.

“We were all devastated to learn that he has been diagnosed with a cancer. And we are all 100% behind him as he starts treatment tomorrow. He has a tough fight ahead, but we know he can do it.”

The murmurs became louder and Randall held up a hand again. “You know him as Anthony Thomas-Risio, but to us he’s family. He’s Tony.”

Randall waved the audience down again, “Just a moment, just one moment, please.” The short lived sense of movement and whispers ceased. Randall really did have amazing stage presence.

“We will be posting all of the information which you can find links to via the show’s website and social media. Tony is going to do a blog with a token fee of fifty cents, but please do be generous, as that blog will be raising money for research into his condition.”

He laughed a little at a cheer from the Gods, and finished quickly. “Please do join us sending love and support to the bravest man I know,” he lifted his free hand towards Tony, shouting into his microphone, as the entire auditorium rose to their feet and literally roared. “We love you, Tony.”

The noise was insane. If Tony had not had his cast mate’s hands on his back, he thought the wall of sound would have sent him flying backwards.

Cheers, hollers, whistles and stamping, on top of the clapping. They had enjoyed many standing ovations, but this was something else.

Judging the audience again, Randall lifted the mic and everyone quietened to see what he was going to say next.

“I guess we’re not getting a speech out of you,” Randall joked, looking at Tony who had tears streaming down his face and was holding Polly, who had climbed him like a tree and wrapped around.

He shook his head, gave Polly a boost and hid his face in her shoulder, creating another wave of applause and more than a few, “Awwwwws.”

“That’s fine,” Randall allowed. “But I thought we had some flowers. Where’s the flower boy?”

He looked at Tony, “I’m so sorry, we definitely ordered flowers.”

Tony tried to say it was okay, when a voice from the back of the stage, although it also came clearly through the speakers, made his mouth simply fall open.

“Flower delivery coming through. So sorry. Fog at Heathrow. Traffic jam at JFK.”

Cast members grinned and slapped Dane on the back as he made his way to the front of the stage. It was the first time Tony had seen him use his normal accent on stage, which was just bizarre.

And what the hell was he doing in New York. He was meant to be on stage in London.

Dane walked next to Randall, gave him a look and then turned to the audience. “What do you think then? Any good?”

Randall cracked up and he audience laughed and cheered.

In fact, MC had arranged Dane’s short (he was flying back out tonight), trip to New York because he had been desperate to come and see Tony, but also they knew it would distract the public and press and give Tony some space.

Dane bantered briefly about how much Tony had helped him when he opened the show, which had been his first theater job. And again, sincerely wished him well from all the cast.

Tony still had Polly in his arms, and Dane still had the flowers, so with a grin Dane handed the flowers to Randall, then said, “Here, give me the bird and take your flowers.” Before pulling Polly out of Tony’s arms.

Tony just about managed to take his flowers, mumble a thank you to the cast and the audience, and be pulled into Randall’s arms as finally the curtain came down.

-X

Ty woke suddenly. A little disoriented, he glanced at the clock. 3.15am, of course!

He lay for a few minutes but clearly wasn’t going to go straight back to sleep. Anyway, Tony appeared to have disentangled himself and Ty felt like re-tangling.

He rolled over carefully, surprised to see the bed empty. The bathroom door was ajar, but no light.

He eased out of bed and checked in there anyway, before padding into the main room. “Tony?” he called softly.

“Ty!” It was a breathless croak.

Ty ran into the kitchen and found Tony on the floor. He was breathing fast. Gasping air in and out. Shaking like a leaf, and even as Ty pulled him into his arms, he could feel his heart thundering.

“I’ve got you.”

“Can’t breathe.”

“You are breathing,” Ty pulled Tony right into his lap, so their chests were flush. “You’re breathing too fast. You’re hyperventilating.” And Ty had never experienced it before and had no notion of how terrifying it was to witness.

“No.”

“Yes, slow it down. You’re gonna pass out.” Ty hauled him even closer, concentrating everything he had on keeping his own breathing steady. Even though he wanted to panic.

“Feel my breath. Try to match to my breath,” he kept Tony pressed against him with his right hand on Tony’s lower back. Using his left to run up and down Tony’s back. Up when he breathed in, down when he breathed out. “Match my breathing,” he said again.

“Can’t.”

“You can, just take your time.”

Ty continued to reassure Tony calmly, until slowly. So slowly, his breathing started to gradually calm. After about fifteen minutes it was slower, but still fractured and shaky. Tony was trembling all over.

Ty turned his head and kissed Tony’s neck, “Okay. You’re okay now.”

“Jesus, I couldn’t breathe.”

“Don’t worry, you’re doing fine now. What happened?”

“I came to get some water and it just slammed into me.” Tony burrowed against Ty, seeking comfort. “What if something goes wrong?” he asked, his voice almost a whisper.

“What are you worrying about?”

“Anaphylaxis. I might have a cardiac arrest.”

“Tony, that’s very unlikely.”

“But it could happen,” Tony said in an even smaller voice.

“And Santa’s sleigh could crash land on our cab, and we’ll never make it to the hospital,” Ty suggested, feeling Tony huff out the tiniest laugh against his skin.

He pulled back a little and looked in Tony’s eyes. “It’s going to be tough. You know that. But nothing is going to go wrong. And I’m going to be right there.”

“Promise?”

Ty gave Tony’s bangs a gentle tug, “I promise.”

Tony studied him seriously for a moment, then nodded, “Then I can do anything.”

“Awwww,” Ty grinned and kissed him. “Can you make it back to bed?”

Tony nodded and Ty helped him raise shakily to his feet. Guiding him back to bed and under the covers.

He kissed him and then leaned over the switch the light back off. Blinking in the sudden gloom, he shifted in the bed, laughing a little when Tony’s hand bumped his stomach.

“Hold on a sec.”

“Ty?” Tony’s hand bounced off Ty’s thigh that time, he couldn’t stop himself from reaching out.

“Hang on, I’m jut getting comfy.” Ty lay back, plumped the pillow and then relaxed.

“Okay, come on.” Grinning as Tony immediately scooted closer.

Ty pulled Tony in, looped his leg over his own, pulled Tony’s arm across his abs and nestled Tony’s head on his shoulder. Stroking his skin gently as Tony trembles gradually eased, and his breathing slowed until he was sleeping.

Ty lay wakeful. Guardian of Tony’s dreams.

-X

Monday morning, Ty grasped Tony’s hand just before he reached for the door. Pulling him in for a kiss, and then just standing, holding both his hands.

“Ready?”

Tony nodded, looking terrified.

“I’m right with you. Let’s get this done.”

Tony shut his eyes briefly and then nodded again. Looking into Ty’s face and seeing love and resolve.

“Let’s do this.”

-X

The concluding part of this story will be posted promptly.