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“I’m gay.”
Those two words hadn’t stopped repeating in Buck’s head. I’m gay. I’m gay. I’m gay.
If he hadn’t still been reeling from the breakup, he probably would’ve been more shocked by Eddie’s pants-less revelation. Instead, Buck had just nodded in acceptance and passed him another beer from the six-pack he'd picked up on his way over.
It had been, surprisingly, Chimney’s idea to take Eddie out to his first gay club. Hen was upset they had never given Buck a “coming out” night, and Chim had suggested they make it a big dual night out. Buck had been single for a few months now, and Eddie was ready to enjoy his last responsibility-free weekend before Chris came back.
It was weird to get ready in his own loft. Buck spent most of his time lately on Eddie's couch, helping him get the place ready for Chris again. Too many projects had been pushed off, and Buck couldn't just let Eddie fix everything on his own. It was just a bonus that it meant spending more time together. It also helped that Eddie looked hot as hell in his collection of tank tops that he insisted "aren't slutty, Buck," in that patronizing voice that did something to him that he didn't have time to analyze.
It had taken Buck far too long to get ready. His plan was to pick up Eddie, and then take them to Hen's where they were all going to Uber together, but Eddie called him earlier that day to let him know that Karen was insisting that she be allowed to dress him for the night, and that Buck "wasn't invited to the dress-up party." A little offensive, he would've been a delight at the dress-up party, but Buck wasn't going to argue with Karen. So he was stuck getting ready alone at home, where he hadn't been in at least a week.
He had upgraded his wardrobe after the Tommy breakup, needing a fresh start. In addition to a stupidly expensive set of cardigans, he had also bought some clothes more appropriate for the West Hollywood clubs than the hook & ladder bars they usually frequented. None had been worn out yet, though. Once he finally realized he was in love with Eddie, it wasn't worth going out for a hook-up anymore. No one else would compare, and that just wasn't fair.
He looked good. A year ago, Buck would've balked at wearing a top this revealing, not quite willing to branch out of his normal style, but now he appreciated how he looked filled out. The mesh polo had a popped leather collar, and he kept the few buttons at the top open, a small tuft of chest hair peeking out. Leather pants clung to his thick thighs, the ones that guys on Grindr kept describing as 'fuckable', for the one week Buck had been on there to try to have a few rebound fucks. It wouldn't be fair to Eddie if Buck was just confusing his feelings, but fucking someone else had only confirmed them. At least he wasn't pining for his straight best friend anymore, just his gay one. That was slightly less pathetic, right?
He slid on a pair of boots and fussed with his phone for a minute, debating ordering an Uber to Hen's or taking the Jeep. Fuck it. It was a night out, so he might as well treat himself. Pre-gaming at Hen's was going to save him money on drinks anyway, so it was basically free. Girl math, as Maddie called it one time. He wasn't showing up empty-handed, though. Athena had taught him better than that. He had a bottle of Karen's favorite wine (as a thank you for invading their home) and a bottle of tequila Eddie had left after their last group barbecue that Buck couldn't bring himself to drink alone. He probably shouldn't even drink it around Eddie, since it lowered most of his inhibitions, but this was a night to celebrate Eddie and let loose. Buck could have a little self-control. Maybe.
His phone pinged to let him know that his ride was here, and he grabbed his tote bag full of goodies by the door. Phone, keys, wallet, check. Keep control of your feelings, check. There was nothing else he could do to delay leaving, much to his dismay.
The ride was quick, for Los Angeles. The evening traffic had finally died out, and Buck was able to zone out for most of the drive. They pulled up to Hen's house in no time, and Buck almost cringed at how giddy he felt when he saw Eddie's truck in the driveway. It was like the moment he allowed himself to start thinking of Eddie romantically, his brain couldn't shut it off.
He gave a quick knock on the door, and there was a muffled shout from behind it before Karen opened the door. She was ready to go out, wearing a sleek black dress that hugged her curves, and not a single hair out of place.
"Looking good, Buckley." She said as she let him in, and Buck flushed just a little.
"Thanks, Karen. You're outdoing me, though. You look gorgeous, as usual." He toed his shoes off and made his way into the kitchen instinctively, hearing Eddie's laughter from the backyard even through the house.
"Yeah, yeah, go get your boy." She laughed as she followed him, and Buck frowned a little.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Don't worry about it." She waved him off, stepping in front of him to open the door. He caught a glimpse of Eddie through the kitchen window and faltered before crossing through the doorway.
Eddie looked fucking good. He always looked good, but today he looked really good. Hen must've dressed him because Buck couldn't picture him buying any of this in the store, let alone even walking into a store that sold clothes like this. Eddie was wearing a black leather collared shirt, buttoned up just enough that you could see the white t-shirt underneath peaking out, his St. Christopher necklace tucked under both. Tight black jeans completed the outfit, and Buck granted himself five seconds just to stare. Oh, the guys were gonna be all over Eddie tonight. It wasn't fair.
Hen also must've styled Eddie's hair, because what she had dubbed the 'slut strand' was on full display, the rest of his hair tousled artfully. His cheeks glowed as he laughed at something Hen was saying, and Buck tried to push down even more jealous feelings that began to pop up. It was fine that Eddie was laughing at Hen, and hanging out with Hen more. She was…. helping him. There was no reason to feel jealous.
"Buck!" Eddie swooped in for a hug as soon he noticed him, and Buck savored the moment. He was usually the more tractile one in their friendship, but once Eddie started opening up more, he started initiating more too, being the one to reach for Buck's hand after a long call or brush their shoulders together after a few quiet hours in the club.
"Didn't you just see each other this morning? When we all got off shift?" Hen observed.
"Can't a guy miss his best friend? C'mon, Hen. You'll get to see Chimney soon." Buck teased, waiting for Eddie to pull back from the hug before stepping away. He was never the one to end their contact, even before he'd figured out his feelings. He'd always want Eddie to touch him, at whatever cost.
"I don't greet Chimney like that." Hen sassed, and Buck laughed. "He and Maddie should be here soon, though. Karen made a few cocktails in the kitchen if you want one."
"Karen made them?! Hell yeah." Buck was excited. He thought he was going to be roped into making the drinks, which he never minded, but Karen made a mean cocktail. "I brought some tequila, too, if we wanna do some shots." He waggled an eyebrow at Eddie, and the other man just groaned in return.
"Tequila? Really, Buck?"
"What?!" Buck tried to look offended, but his smile betrayed him.
"You know what tequila does to me." Eddie hissed as Karen waved them inside, four shot glasses set across the counter along with some loose sea salt and a fresh cut lime.
"Buck! I found the tequila." Karen's triumphant grin was a fantastic juxtaposition to Eddie's face of dismay.
"Shouldn't we get to the club before we start doing shots?" Eddie tried to suggest, but he was quickly shot down.
"Nope!" Hen filled a cocktail shaker with ice, pouring what was definitely more than four shots worth of tequila inside, and shaking it above her head like she was being paid for it, even attempting a flip of the shaker that almost ended in liquor on the floor. Karen was the one to save them, quick reflexes allowing her to grab it before it hit the ground and spilled all over. "Oops." Hen laughed, clearly not sorry at all.
"Are you trying to show me up with your bartending skills?" Buck passed out a lime slice to each of them, shoving one into Eddie's hand when he tried to protest again. "This is your night out, Eddie. Are you worried you can't keep up with us, old man?"
Eddie narrowed his eyes at Buck but took the lime wedge, shaking some salt into the palm of his hand. He was never one to back down from a challenge, which Buck knew. "First off, I'm not even a year older than you, so calm down, whipper-snapper. Secondly-"
Buck didn't respond, too busy licking a stripe on the back of his hand so he could shake some salt over it to make the process easier. He paused when Eddie fell silent, looking up only to see that Eddie was busy staring at his tongue, not even paying attention anymore.
Hen cleared her throat, and Eddie wrenched his eyes away, the moment broken. She pressed a shot glass into each of their hands, giving them each a calculating look.
"Okay well, if we're done with…. whatever that was." Hen snorted as Karen tried to lead them in a toast, smothering her laughter when her wife just glared at her. "I'm still waiting to hear from Chimney if they're meeting us there or not, so it's just the gays here now! Eddie, Buck, it figures you would both have your own separate queer journeys this year-"
"Hey!" "What's that supposed to mean?!"
They both protested at the same time, but Hen was quick to shush them. "My WIFE is speaking." They fell silent, and Hen raised her glass to Karen. "Keep going, baby."
"As I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted," Karen's fond look betrayed her tone, and Buck shot her a bashful grin to try to win her back, "The journey isn't what matters, it's the destination. Eddie, we're honored to show you the joys of West Hollywood, and Buck, I can't believe we haven't done this yet. To queer beginnings!" She raised her glass and they all tapped their glasses together, each chasing their shot their own way.
Karen took it straight, not even making a face after. Hen didn't use the salt, but she did take a bite from her lime, grimacing slightly at the bitter taste. Eddie tossed the salt from his palm into his mouth, taking the shot as quickly as he could and letting a few drops dribble from his mouth as he bit into the bitter fruit after. Buck tried not to stare when Eddie licked his lips clean but was pretty sure he was unsuccessful from the look that Hen was giving him, and he realized he was still holding his full cup.
Karen busied herself making actual drinks while Hen excused herself to call Chimney to see when they were leaving, and Eddie gestured to the shot glass.
"You're not going to take it after you just made fun of me?"
"Oh, right." Buck dragged his tongue over the back of his hand, gathering the flakey sea salt on his tongue. Eddie's gaze followed his mouth as he tossed the shot back, finishing it up with the bite of lime. Buck felt his face flush just a bit, the way it always did once he started drinking. He raised his hand to lick the remaining salt off, hoping to help rid his mouth of the lingering tequila taste, and swallowed thickly when he realized Eddie was still watching him.
"Okay, Chimney and Maddie are leaving now and will pick us up. Maddie doesn't think they'll stay too long, but she wants to at least hit one stop with us, and we'll just Uber back." Hen announced, making Buck jump a bit at the intrusion. Fuck. It was embarrassing how easily he could forget about everyone else in the room if Eddie was paying him even the slightest bit of attention.
"Perfect! That gives me just enough time to put some finishing touches on the boys, and make sure we can really wow the crowd tonight." Karen passed Eddie his drink first, then Buck. Buck took a cautious sip. The drink was delicious, but strong as hell. She had kept with the tequila theme, making them each a tequila sunrise.
"What finishing touches? I'm ready." Buck gestured at his clothes, wondering what she meant. He was pretty proud of his outfit.
"I just think a little eyeliner would make those blue eyes really pop, you know? And Eddie, I know you wouldn't let me earlier, but if Buck lets me put eyeliner on him, can we give you some mascara? Don't you want to use those long lashes to get some free drinks tonight?" Karen pleaded her case, and Buck could already feel himself ready to give in.
"If Buck's gonna let you put eyeliner on him, I'll try the mascara. It's only fair, after all." Eddie was already halfway done with his drink, and Buck knew drunk Eddie was dangerous. How was he going to make it through the night?
Karen turned directly to Buck. "Please? Just this one time, you won't even need to get me a birthday gift."
"You know I'll get you a birthday gift anyway." She batted her eyelashes and he groaned, not actually upset at all. "But sure, why not!"
He let Karen drag him into the bathroom, and perched on the side of the bathtub as she pulled out a black eyeliner pencil, getting right in his face. "I won't poke your eyes out, but you need to stay still."
"This isn't my first time wearing eyeliner." Buck pointed out as she began to drag the kohl across his lower lid, but followed her directions. "Do you think Maddie was immune to making me play dress up? She always practiced her makeup on me."
"Cute," Karen remarked, using a brush to presumably smudge the makeup, hemming and hawing as she made sure it was even. "Eddie, did your sisters do that with you?"
"Are you kidding me? My dad would've killed us." Eddie stood in the doorway, watching as Karen worked on Buck. "The girls weren't even allowed to have makeup until I was already moved out, and there's no way Helena Diaz would waste her money on any for kids to play with. I'm surprised your parents didn't get upset with Maddie for it."
"Please, like they even noticed." Karen took a step back and Buck stood up, eager to see the final results. He switched spots with Eddie and took a look in the mirror. She was right, it did make his eyes pop. The black was artfully smudged and just made him look a little more put together. He'd have to get some for himself.
"What'd I tell you, Buck? It looks good." She let him preen for a moment before the mirror before turning her concentration to Eddie.
"Yeah, yeah. You're always right, Karen. That's why I didn't argue."
"Whoa! What are you trying to do?" Buck stifled a giggle when she pulled out the eyelash curler and Eddie jumped in his seat, almost tumbling into the bathtub behind him.
"Stop being so dramatic. Buck, why don't you help Hen in the kitchen before we go?"
Buck could tell when he wasn't needed anymore and he ducked back out, going to do as he was told. With him helping Hen they quickly got the mess cleaned up, and he took the empty tequila bottle out to the recycling, savoring the fresh air and solitude before he had to prepare for a night of bodies all around him.
When he got back inside, the familiar voice of Maddie's laughter filled the air and he rushed to give her a hug.
"Oh-Buck! We just saw each other yesterday." Maddie matched his enthusiasm though, and Chimney threw himself into the hug just a minute later.
"Can't a guy just be happy to see his big sister?" It helped that Maddie was the only one who knew about his feelings, so he could at least complain to someone as he suffered through the night.
"You look good, did Karen dress you?" Chim observed as they pulled apart, looking smart in his tight jeans and simple button-down, complementing Maddie's floral dress and comfy wedges. "I dress myself, thank you very much!" Buck tugged his shirt down a little, feeling exposed. "But, she did the eyeliner."
"I like it! Reminds me of when I'd dress you up as a kid. You just kind of let me, it was great." Maddie smiled fondly at him. "I wish we'd had pictures, but that's okay. I'll always remember the winged eyeliner and red lipstick phase."
He scowled at her. "Let's not bring up the lipstick. The eyeliner can stick around, though. It's fun."
"Chim, I saved you a drink! Quick, the earlier we go out, the sooner we can come back." Hen brought the last cup into the living room, pushing it into Chimney's hands and encouraging him to drink.
"Or, it just means the earlier we go out, the more fun we get to have!" Buck sat on the couch to pull his boots back on, making sure he wouldn't be the reason they got held up. Everyone teased him for his time management skills, but it was usually Eddie running late and Buck just taking the flack for it. He could handle a little teasing, sometimes. A small sacrifice to save Eddie some stress.
Eddie and Karen made their way back into the room, and Eddie plopped himself right on the couch next to Buck, pulling a pair of leather sneakers close. They matched his shirt and were shiny and definitely new.
"Karen really went all out with you, didn't she?"
Eddie sighed, but his lips turned upwards with a smile. "I think I'm all shopped-out for the rest of the year, but she does have good taste. Do you approve?"
"Of course I do. You look good in everything." God, Eddie was cute when he blushed. His eyelashes were accentuated by the mascara, and Karen had talked him into the eyeliner too, just enough to make his eyes look even bigger.
"You're just being nice to me," Eddie mumbled, tightening the laces on his shoes and standing up and heading back to the kitchen, where Chimney was trying to gulp down his drink.
Buck followed him, some pep in his step now that he was starting to get under Eddie's skin. He couldn't help it, unable to resist testing the waters. Maddie had planted the spark in his mind that his feelings may not be one-sided, and the tequila made him bold.
"Okay, game plan!" Hen slammed her drink down, and gathered them around the table."Since Maddie and Chim are only going to the first club, I'm thinking we start at the Abbey. It's a classic for a reason. When they're ready to go, the rest of us will check out the Flaming Saddles. Eddie, I think you'll be very impressed with that one." She winked at him and Buck had to try not to scowl when she was the one to make Eddie blush this time. It wasn't fair.
"Have you been to any of those, Buck?" Chim asked.
"Uh, no, actually. Tommy only ever wanted to go to the regular dive bars, said the 'gay scene' wasn't for him. I've been to The Eagle a few times on my own, but that's not really a 'club'." He tried not to linger too much on how Tommy never really wanted to take him out in the community. Sure, Tommy was gay, but he wasn't queer.
"Oh, I know all about the Eagle." Now Buck was the one blushing at the knowing look Hen gave him.
"What's the Eagle?" Eddie asked, looking just a little annoyed at being out of the loop.
"I'll explain it to you when you're older. I don't think you're ready for cruising and leather daddies quite yet." Karen slung an arm around Eddie's shoulder and gestured for everyone else to follow. "Well, if the driver is ready, I think we're ready to go!"
Buck was going to be so chill tonight. They were just going out to celebrate his best friend! His formerly straight best friend who was definitely not an option for him despite not actually being straight. No one will suspect a thing.
Buck was definitely not chill. He didn't know why he thought he could be, he wasn't capable of ever being chill. Things started off great at the Abbey. The drinks were good, the music was fun, and he enjoyed spending time with his whole little family. The only people missing were Bobby and Athena; they'd even run into Ravi unexpectedly, who was out for a night on his own.
The drinks were flowing, the music was good, and Buck felt alive. Things were only going up from here in his life, and he savored the time they were spending together before things changed a little.
Maddie was the first to dip out, unsurprisingly finding it uncomfortable after an hour of being at a nightclub while pregnant and sober. It was perfect timing because Chim seemed just a little too excited about their night out, pounding drinks back like it was four years ago, and was hitting the "tired drunk" stage far faster than they expected.
"Maddie, if you want to stay, I can wake up! Let's get an energy drink from the bar." He tried to convince her, but Buck could tell Maddie was ready to leave.
"Do you guys mind if we head out? I'm sorry to leave so soon!"
"Leave so soon? I'm just impressed you came out at all!" Karen scooped her into a very enthusiastic hug, Hen following suit. They were the ones making sure none of them had an empty hand, so it wasn't surprising Chimney had to tap out when he couldn't keep up with them anymore.
"I don't think the baby likes pop music," Maddie said, reaching out to Buck for a hug next. "He started kicking twenty minutes ago and just hasn't stopped."
"Maybe the baby's homophobic." Ravi joked, and there was a moment of silence before Buck burst into laughter, Maddie's horrified face something he wished he had a photo of. "I should clarify I'm pansexual, so I'm allowed to say that."
"So does this mean the next time someone's rude to me, I can just tell them they're being homophobic?" Eddie looked far too excited about the possibility.
"Bye, Eddie!" Maddie hugged him last, and Buck couldn't help but smile at how well they got along. His whole family just fit so well together. He didn't need anyone new to bring into their dynamic.
"Actually, yes, Eddie, that's exactly what that means." Chimney reached for one of the shots on the table and Maddie smacked his hand away.
"What?!"
"Okay, lover, let's go home. I already know you're gonna wake up cranky." Chimney let out a long sigh as he got up, audible even over the loud music, but Maddie was not budging. "You can Uber home later, if you want, and I'll just go home without you." She bargained.
"Why would I want to stay without you?" Chimney pouted while Hen and Eddie both made puking motions behind their backs as Buck stifled a giggle.
"Well then, let's go home." Chimney reluctantly followed her out, yelling his goodbyes as he went.
"One more round of drinks and then we close out and go to the next club?" Karen suggested, and Hen nodded in agreement. "Boys, I think it's your turn?"
Ravi led the way to the bar, and Buck leaned against the counter as they waited to order. Eddie did the same, pressing their shoulders together. Buck leaned into his warmth, despite the heat of the club.
"Are you having fun?" Buck asked. Eddie certainly looked like he was having fun. His cheeks were flushed, his hair a complete mess, and he'd been smiling from the moment they walked in. He was devastatingly handsome, and Buck tensed up every time he caught a guy checking Eddie out. It didn't seem like Eddie wasn't interested in any of them, but Buck didn't think he could handle seeing him make a move on anyone.
"I promise, I'm having a good time. You don't have to keep asking." Eddie reassured him, flagging down the bartender and listing off their drink requests before asking to close the tab. "Where's the next place we're going?"
"Uh, the Flaming Saddles. It seemed pretty fitting to me."
"Why?" Eddie's brow furrowed.
"You didn't Google the place? You always look up new places before we go there."
Eddie shrugged, fidgeting a little. "You said you guys wanted to surprise me, and I trust your choices. I didn't want to ruin the surprise."
Maybe Buck needed to go home, because how was he supposed to resist leaning over and just kissing the hell out of Eddie when he said such sweet things? It also felt like Eddie was… looking at his lips? He had to be projecting at this point. Maybe he had something on his face? Buck tried to subtly wipe at his mouth, but didn't see anything on his hand when he checked. Interesting.
"C'mon, let's get these drinks over. I can feel Karen sideyeing us from here." Ravi huffed, breaking the moment.
They made their way back over to the side of the dance floor Hen had commandeered, passing the girls their drinks and just taking it all in. A few go-go boys walked through the crowd, getting up on different stations to dance, and Buck definitely caught Eddie looking at some and blushing when they started to dance his way.
"Have you tipped one yet, Eddie? They're really nice, I promise." Ravi teased, and Eddie turned red, almost choking on his drink.
"Tip them? No uh, I think I'm good."
"Why? You don't think they're attractive?" Karen gave Eddie a sly look and Buck tried not to draw any attention to himself, not wanting to be the one getting teased. Besides, he wanted to know what Eddie said.
"I don't think twinks are my type."
"You know what twinks are?!" Buck was a little disappointed he hadn't been the one to teach Eddie about the different kinds of gays he might encounter. In fact, Eddie hadn't talked to him much at all about dating. Buck was a little offended, now that he thought about it.
"Well, what's your type?" Ravi asked, Hen and Karen paying close attention, their hands all over each other. It would be cute if Buck wasn't so laser-focused on Eddie.
"I'm still figuring it out. But, I think I want someone strong. I don't want to feel like the big guy in the relationship. Someone who can match me in the gym, maybe give me a challenge." Buck was practically vibrating out of his skin as Eddie's gaze lingered over him. Buck could be that guy.
"I hit a new record in the gym, by the way." He blurted out, embarrassed as soon as the words left his mouth.
"Really?" Eddie raised an eyebrow. "I didn't think you were trying for a new one. 350 was the last you told me."
Ravi's eyes practically bulged out of his head. "Like, deadlifting? "
"Yeah." Buck shrugged, bashfully rubbing the back of his neck with the hand not holding his drink. He didn't want to seem like he was bragging, he just wanted to impress Eddie. "Sometimes we gotta lift some heavy shit at a scene, and it's faster if I can just lift things on my own."
"What are you at now then? 375?" Eddie sipped his drink, intrigued. He pulled the cherry out of the cup and plucked the stem off, chewing down on the fruit. The juice stained his lips red and Buck had to stop himself from staring.
"Nope." He shook his head. "C'mon, you know I could do more than that."
"390?" Ravi asked, stepping closer to him.
"Just a little bit higher than that…"
Eddie's jaw dropped. "So you're saying…"
"I hit 405 last week."
A noise Buck had never heard before left Eddie's throat, something like a cross between a whimper and a squeak.
Ravi let out a low whistle, mock fanning himself as he tossed back the rest of his drink. "So Eddie, would you say a guy like Buck is your type then? That's pretty damn impressive."
"He just might be." Tension crackled between them, and Buck was starting to think he wasn't making things up. Now he just had to find a way to approach the idea with Eddie.
"I think you'll be really happy with the next stop, then." Ravi winked, a mischievous look in his eyes that made Buck suspicious. "Now finish up. I'm ready for some new eye candy."
Buck tried to keep some distance between him and Eddie as they walked to the next stop, but this time Eddie was the one who kept bumping his shoulder, making sure there was no space between them. Ravi led the way, a hop in his step, and they were almost there when Hen stopped them.
"Hey boys!"
They turned around, not surprised to see her clutching Karen's waist as they giggled against each other. "I think Karen and I are going to catch a ride back home. Take advantage of the empty house, you know?"
"You're like my sister, I so did not need to know that." Buck groaned, and Hen giggled, a noise you almost never heard until you got her at least tipsy.
"Don't think I haven't forgotten about your Firehose days, mister." She teased. "You can deal with it."
"We'll wait here while you call for the ride." Eddie offered, and Karen held up her phone screen.
"Got one already, they're two minutes away."
"So you were planning to ditch us before we even left, I see how it is." Buck leaned against the brick of the alleyway they'd paused by, the cold brick grounding him just a bit. "We'll still wait, it's just polite."
Eddie leaned into him, and Buck stiffened when he laid his head on Buck's shoulder, soft brown hair tickling his neck.
"Can't believe you didn't tell me you hit 405 pounds," Eddie murmured, and Buck relaxed.
"I didn't want you to think I was bragging."
"You should brag more often. You do impressive things, Buck. Why don't you ever want to talk about them?"
Buck didn't have an answer, and Eddie didn't bring it up again. A sleek black Prius pulled up, and they waited until Hen closed the door behind them and the car took off before resuming their walk. They only had one more block to go, and the wait to get in was short despite it being a Saturday night.
Buck was glad he'd kept the bar a surprise. This was definitely an improvement over the other club if he was reading the look on Eddie's face right.
The bar was Western-themed, with a large dance floor full of writhing bodies. A few thick climbing ropes hung from the ceiling, dropping down to small tables where their dancers stood. Eddie could've passed for one of them in the Texas get-up he had sent pictures to Buck of him wearing whenever he visited El Paso. The men all wore low-cut jeans, no tops, and oiled abs were all on display for everyone to see.
"So are they more your type than those twinks were?" Ravi nudged Eddie's shoulder, and a blush blossomed over his face, adding to the tipsy glow he had.
"Shut up. Do you want me to buy us some drinks or not?"
"Yes, please!" Ravi shoved them to the bar, waving his hand to get the bartender’s attention. "Can we get three DILF shots, then three Patron shots, please?"
"What is with the drink names?" Eddie muttered to Buck, his breath hot against Buck's neck when he leaned close to be heard over the music. Buck's pulse began to race, heat thrumming underneath his skin. "If I have to order a 'Tonsil Tickler' or a 'Schlong Island Iced Tea' again, I might just stick to water."
"That's the best part though, it helps you decide what you're in the mood for," Buck said brazenly, looking over the menu in front of them.
"Are you in the mood for a 'Tonsil Tickler' then?" Brown eyes met blue, and Buck swallowed, his mouth suddenly drying up. He needed to turn the tables, stat. It wasn't fair how easily he fell under Eddie's spell.
"Maybe." Buck winked, and he watched as Eddie's eyes visibly darkened, warm eyes turning molten. "Guess we'll see if anyone fits the bill, right?"
"Right. You know, I've-"
Ravi pushed a shot at each of them, clearly not interested in letting them talk anymore. "DILF shot first! Eddie Diaz, you are my favorite DILF. Don't tell Chimney. Cheers!"
They threw their shots back together, the taste of peach and cranberry hitting Buck's throat. He wondered what it would taste like if Eddie was the DILF he was taking a shot of. Fuck. At this point, his cock would never be soft again.
"And now, our last tequila shots! Let's make them count."
The bartender slid over a small plate with some limes and a salt shaker, along with the bill. Buck watched as Eddie signed the receipt with a vigorous flourish, his signature completely illegible.
Ravi threw back his shot first, not even bothering with anything else. Buck missed when he could drink like that, but he needed a moment to prepare.
"Has Buck taught you how to take a body shot yet?" Ravi's tone was innocent, but Buck narrowed his eyes at his friend. He thought Ravi liked him, but he was clearly wrong. If Ravi liked him, he wouldn't torture Buck like this.
"It's not like I've never been to a party before. I've done body shots." Eddie huffed, looking a little offended at the insinuation.
"But have you done one off someone you're attracted to? Because let me tell you, that's a whole different type of shot."
"I'm not going to find a stranger to take a shot off of. That's just unsanitary." Eddie scrunched up his nose, looking ridiculously cute, and before Buck knew it, more stupid words were coming out of his mouth.
"You could take one off me." He didn't know what possessed him to offer, he wasn't even that drunk, but now the idea wouldn't leave his mind. Please say yes.
Ravi clapped his hands together, only adding to Buck's suspicion. "Well, would you look at that? Someone you're attracted to, volunteering so quickly. It sounds like you don't have any excuses."
"How is he going to teach me how to take the shot then?"
"He'll take one off you first, duh." Ravi rolled his eyes, acting like he was explaining this to a five-year-old and not a 30-something-year-old.
"Okay." Eddie shrugged, looking at Buck. "What do you need me to do?"
Rail me into next year? "Uh," he cleared his throat and picked up one of the lime slices. "The easiest way to do this will be on the neck." He licked his palm, coating it liberally, and reached toward Eddie's neck. "This will be the easiest way for the salt to stick. Do you mind?" Eddie nodded in agreement, and Buck stepped closer.
"Tilt your head for me." Eddie did, and Buck rubbed his wet palm on his neck, concentrating on just one spot. He picked up the salt shaker and tapped it delicately, cupping his hand below to catch any fall out so it didn't end up under Eddie's shirt. "Will you hold the lime for me?" Eddie held his hand out and put the wedge between two fingers.
"Ready?" Buck picked up the shot from the bar, already nervous that he was going to drop the glass, the condensation sticking to his fingers.
"Go for it, unless you're too chicken."
That's it. Buck leaned forward, grabbing Eddie's waist with one hand and licking the salt off slowly, lingering over his pulse point. He then picked the shot up and quickly took it, not breaking eye contact with Eddie. He reached to grab the lime from his hands, but Eddie stopped him.
"Here, let me." He held up the wedge and Buck bit into it, taking advantage of the moment and swiftly laving his tongue over Eddie's thick fingers. How many times had he fantasized about taking them inside of him, of being stretched out for his fat cock, of Eddie, milking him for every drop. And now he had the chance to show those fingers some devotion. He pulled back after a moment, remembering where they were.
Eddie's pupils were blown wide, and Buck glanced down to notice both of their pants looked tighter. Good. Now he didn't feel guilty for continuing to tease Eddie.
"My turn?" Eddie grabbed the salt shaker, and Buck steadied himself against the bar.
"Yeah, if you think you're up to it, Diaz."
Nothing could compare to the feeling of Eddie's rough tongue swiping over his sensitive neck. Well, if he got to kiss Eddie that would definitely be better, but this would have to do. Buck made sure his neck was perfectly tilted, baring his throat for Eddie. He tried not to whimper when he felt sharp canines scraping against his neck, and he couldn't help but wonder if they would leave a mark for him to see in the morning. If this was all he was going to get of Eddie, he wanted to savor it.
He held up the lime for Eddie to bite as he finished off the shot, and tried not to be too disappointed when Eddie pulled back as soon as he was done, not lingering over his fingers.
"Look at that! Another accomplishment. Now, should we dance?" Ravi clapped his hands together, gesturing to the lit-up floor in front of them.
"I'm gonna sit here at the bar for a minute, if that's okay."
"Do you want me to sit with you?" Buck offered, but Eddie shook his head.
"No, go on out there."
Buck was torn but Ravi grabbed his hand, making the decision for him. "Don't worry, I'll take good care of him."
They made their way into a darker corner of the dance floor and Ravi guided Buck's hand onto his hips, looping his around Buck's neck. "You're welcome, by the way."
"Why would I thank you for torturing me? Is my crush that obvious?" Buck pouted, swaying his hips to the rhythm of an early 2000's pop remix. At least they didn't play country music at this bar, despite the theming.
"The only crush more obvious is the one he has on you." Ravi laughed, and Buck could feel the grin that split over his face, his cheeks almost hurting.
"Do you really think Eddie likes me back? It's so hard for me to tell."
"If Eddie had laser beams for eyes, he would be destroying me right now."
Buck whipped his head over to look at Eddie by the bar, and sure enough, he was glaring at Ravi. Experimentally, Buck pulled Ravi closer, pressing their hips together, and Eddie jumped to his feet.
Perfect.
"Have a fun rest of your night, okay? I'll Venmo request you for any more drinks, it's the least you can do." Ravi slipped away, and Buck only had a second to try to compose himself before Eddie appeared in his place.
"I thought you didn't want to dance." Buck teased, unable to resist. Eddie's face flushed, and Buck gave him a reassuring grin, trying to make sure he knew Buck wasn't actually upset with him.
"That didn't mean I wanted for you to dance with Ravi," Eddie grumbled, pulling Buck closer.
"Who would you let me dance with?" Buck had to give Ravi credit, that idea must actually worked. Jealous Eddie was hot.
"Me, obviously."
"Then show me your moves, cowboy."
Buck winked and turned around, pressing his back against Eddie's firm body. Eddie caught on fast, and they rocked to the music together, the crowd around them fading, the music meaningless. He didn't know how long they danced for, time slipping away. He would have found this overstimulating if he was out with a stranger, but being in Eddie's arms felt so right that Buck didn't care where they were.
Every so often he ground his hips down, teasing at the hardness he felt behind him. He'd seen Eddie naked before, it was just inevitable with how entwined their lives were, but he had never allowed himself to properly look. Hopefully, he'd get the chance tonight. They hadn't even kissed and yet all Buck could think about was getting his mouth on Eddie's cock. His mouth watered just thinking about it, and Buck's patience was wearing thin.
Eddie's breath was hot on his sensitive neck, and a shiver ran down his spine as he felt soft lips against the back of his neck, nibbling slightly as they went. Buck couldn't take anymore, and he turned back around, putting them face to face.
Eddie leaned forward, almost within kissing distance. He paused, a searching look in his eyes, and Buck quirked an eyebrow at him. "What are you waiting for, Diaz?"
He sighed, hot breath puffing against Buck's lips. "I want to kiss you so bad."
"Why don't you?" He tried not to whine, but couldn't help it if it slipped into his tone. He just wanted Eddie so bad, it wasn't fair to have to wait any longer.
"I don't want our first kiss to be on this dance floor. It's going to be our last first kiss, so it should be special."
Buck's cheeks heated and his lips twitched up. He tried to school his face into something at least a little chill. "You're really that confident, are you?"
Eddie gave him a smug look, his hands tightening around Buck's waist, making him feel like the smaller one for once. How was Eddie so ridiculously sexy without even trying? How was Buck supposed to resist not taking him apart right here on the dance floor?
"So you want us to wait until we get home? Do you think we're gonna last that long?"
"No." Eddie snorted, shaking his head a little. "I know we won't. But that place where Hen got picked up was pretty secluded."
"The alleyway?" So Buck clearly wasn't the only one feeling desperate right now. Interesting.
"What do you say? Are you feeling adventurous tonight?" Eddie attempted to wiggle an eyebrow, and Buck smothered his laughter. No one else knew that Eddie Diaz was actually just a giant dork.
"You're not like wasted, right? You aren't going to regret this?" Buck didn't think he was, but he had to make sure.
"I've had just as much to drink as you have. We sweated most of it out walking over here."
"Okay, good. Yeah, let's go."
They pushed their way through the crowd, eyes only for each other. The air outside was hot, but not unbearable, a welcoming relief from the sweaty air inside. Eddie reached down, lacing their fingers together, and tugged Buck down the block.
"I'm impressed you can remember where she got picked up," Buck remarked, picking up the pace to keep up with how impatiently Eddie was walking.
"I couldn't stop thinking about kissing you when we were waiting for their ride." Eddie pulled him into the secluded alleyway, out of view from prying eyes. It was late enough that traffic was limited, and some discarded furniture gave them enough space to feel like they were somewhere private.
"So are you gonna kiss me now or-" The breath in his lungs momentarily left him as he was pushed against the cold brick. He shivered, goosebumps racing up his skin.
Eddie's plush lips captured his, and Buck let out a muffled moan as they finally made contact. It didn't matter where they were, or what time it was. Buck wasn't even sure that he was on Earth anymore. Years of tension had led to this moment, and he tried to take a mental snapshot of how he felt. There was a hint of tequila still on Eddie's lips, and Buck ran his tongue across the seam of his mouth, chasing the taste. His lips parted in invitation, tongue meeting his, and Buck dove in, practically licking inside of his mouth. Fuck.
Now that he'd tasted Eddie, he could never go back. Why had they waited this long? They could've been doing this the whole time! He pulled back to tell Eddie just that, but Eddie only let him breathe for a second before pressing their lips together again. Buck let out a moan when he wrapped a large hand around his hip, pulling them closer together.
This shouldn't have been as hot as it was. They were outside, in muggy west Hollywood, making out in an alleyway like some horny teens. And yet, this was the kiss Buck would remember the most. The moment everything fell into place.
He moaned as Eddie began to kiss down his neck, tugging the collar of his shirt aside and nipping at Buck's neck. "Don't rip this shirt, okay? I actually like it." Eddie groaned, annoyed.
"All I've wanted to do is rip this shirt off. Do you know how good you look? All I could think of was doing this." He slipped a hand under the mesh and tweaked at one of Buck's nipples, rubbing it to a hard peak, and Buck let out far too loud of a moan for still technically being in public. "Shhh, baby. You don't want anyone to come interrupt us, do you?"
Buck shook his head, but Eddie didn't relent, one hand torturing his nipples and the other stroking at the back of his neck. He was completely surrounded by Eddie, and yet he wanted more. "Touch me." He begged and felt a smirk against his lips.
"I am touching you." There was a sharp pinch to his nipples to remind him.
"You know what I mean." He whined, and the hand that was behind his neck trailed down his back, and soon both of Eddie's hands were under his shirt, tracing over his skin. Blunt nails scratched down his stomach, and Buck let out another loud moan when a hand grasped at the bulge in his pants.
"If you want me to touch you, you need to be quiet."
Buck couldn't take it anymore. He pushed Eddie back and reversed their positions, sinking to his knees, slowly so the ground wouldn't rip at his nice pants. Eddie's jaw dropped just a bit, and Buck watched his throat bob as he took in the sight of Buck on his knees, looking dumbstruck.
"Why don't you just make me be quiet?" He challenged, his voice just on the side of desperate and already a little wrecked.
"You sure about this?" Eddie asked, and the best part about being eye-level with his dick meant that Buck could see that Eddie was now fully hard, and clearly the level of risk was doing something for him. Was he sure about this? What a crazy question to ask.
"If I don't get my mouth on you, I just might die, right here. You don't want that, do you?" Buck pouted, running his hands up the inside of Eddie's thighs, brushing close to his destination.
Eddie cursed and unbuttoned his pants, Buck grabbing at the fabric and yanking them down just enough to let Eddie's cock spring free, already flushed and hard. Buck's mouth watered. "Don't expect to get everything you want when you give me looks like that, okay? I'm weak right now."
"Because it's such a hardship to get your dick sucked, how torturous." Buck took a moment to just appreciate what was in front of him. He nuzzles against his cock, lapping at the shaft, and now Eddie is moaning loud enough to get them caught.
"Buck, I'm not gonna last long," Eddie confesses, his fingers sliding Buck's curls and twisting. Buck whimpers, adjusting himself against the ground. He's straining against the seam of his pants but pays it no mind. This is about Eddie.
"Don't worry, you just need your stamina for when you fuck me at your place." Buck winked up at him and leaned forward, taking as much of Eddie's cock into his mouth as he can, relaxing his throat. Sure, he's been with a few guys recently, but Eddie's the biggest. Buck wanted to compare them side by side, just to be silly, but Eddie's was definitely thicker than him and it kept Buck's mouth full.
Eddie groaned again, blunt nails scratching against Buck's skull. "Fuck, that feels so good. You're desperate for me, aren't you? Wanted my cock so badly you couldn't even wait to get home."
Buck nods as well as he can, swallowing around the cock in his throat and humming a little, the vibrations causing Eddie's thighs to tremble. He pulls back a little, holding Eddie's cock in his hand and giving it small pumps as he bites at his inner thighs, leaving dark red marks that he hopes stay to make Eddie remember this. The word home just made him desperate, the way Eddie said made it sound like he was included, and that was all Buck wanted.
"Such a good fucking boy, and all mine now, aren't you?" Eddie pants breathlessly, and Buck nods frantically in response. He can feel his own cock throbbing in his pants and he presses his palm down on it, hoping he won't make a mess and embarrass himself right now.
"Will you fuck my throat?" He blurts out, settling into a better position for it. "I'm ready to taste you, please." He flutters his eyelashes just a bit, hoping to paint a tempting image and Eddie growls. Success.
"Mhm, you want my cum down your throat?"
Buck nods eagerly and opens his mouth wide, taking his cock in his mouth again. Eddie thrusts shallowly, just a few times, and when Buck does nothing to stop him, he starts to let go, sliding his cock as far down as it can go before pulling back, his hands in Buck's hair keeping him in place. "You like this, don't you? Using your throat like a toy, like you're my toy."
Buck moans around his cock, tears pooling in the corner of his eyes, probably smearing the eyeliner Karen had so carefully applied. He looked wrecked. Drool sliding down his chin, makeup running down his face, hair completely destroyed from Eddie tugging him around. to keep him in position.. He can't even bring himself to care, because judging by the way Eddie is looking at him, he loves it just as much.
"Fuck, baby you're taking me so well. I'm almost there, you're doing such a good job." Eddie's thrusts pick up, full balls knocking into Buck's chin
The praise just encourages him and Buck sucks harder, hollowing his cheeks to create a tight seal for Eddie to fuck into it. He tries every trick he can think of, eager to please. Eddie will never be able to choose someone else again. Buck wants to ruin him.
"That's it, I'm so close-"
Buck takes a risk and runs a hand up Eddie's thigh, rubbing a dry knuckle against his perineum, and that's the move that does it. A loud groan echoes through the alleyway as Eddie shoots down his throat, and Buck tries to swallow everything he gives him. Some drips down his chin but he wipes it away with his thumb, sucking the salty liquid off. Of course, Eddie would taste good, and Buck found himself craving more already.
"Get up here," Eddie said gruffly, and Buck tucked him back into his pants as he got up, pins and needles spread through his legs, and he tried to catch his balance against the wall. "You good?"
"I'm great, I promise." He smiled, a little cock-drunk, nuzzling at his neck, and Eddie snorts.
"Yeah, try not to look too smug. I'd like to see you last longer."
"Oh, I don't even know how I'm gonna make it home," Buck admitted, and Eddie captured his lips in a filthy kiss. Now, Eddie is practically fucking his mouth, drinking some of his own cum, and Buck thinks he might explode. "Please, Eddie, how am I supposed to get home like this?"
Eddie changed their position, putting Buck against the wall like he did the first time. He kicked his feet apart and slid a leg between Buck's, a thick thigh now pressed against his crotch, warm beneath him. "How about this? Be a good boy and make yourself come on my leg, and then we'll go home so I can fuck you into the mattress."
A whine left Buck's lips as he finally got some pressure where he was aching, and he knew he wouldn't last much longer. "I don't want to ruin these pants."
"I don't give a fuck about your pants." Eddie kissed down his neck again, his hands moving to rub over his nipples again, and Buck is helpless to resist. "Go on, get yourself off. Be my good boy, yeah?"
That's it. The shame leaves Buck's body at the praise, and he began to grind down frantically, chasing his release. He's so fucking close he could almost taste it, just like the cum still lingering in his mouth. Whimpers leave his throat, and Eddie murmurs encouragement in his ear, hot and filthy.
"Take what you need, you're doing so well. Are you so desperate you're going to make a mess of your nice new pants, show me how much you want me? I know you can do it, baby. Let go."
The permission is exactly what Buck needed. Black spots filled his vision as his orgasm raced through him like a freight train, and he sagged against the wall bonelessly. Eddie caught him, pressing frantic kisses to his mouth to swallow down his moans. Buck couldn't remember the last time he came that hard, and he didn't even care. No one else would compare to Eddie.
"You with me?" Eddie murmured against his skin, and Buck let out a weak chuckle.
"Yeah, I'm here. Fuck, that was kind of insane, right?" He looked into Eddie's eyes, searching for even a hint of regret, but was pleased to find none.
Eddie laughed. "But are we not both just a little insane? Is it really that surprising?"
"No," Buck admitted, and they both chuckled. "So what's next?"
"I think we should get home so I can fuck you into the mattress before Chris gets home, and then start figuring out how to break the lease on the loft."
"Diaz, are you asking me to move in with you? On the first date?" Buck tried to sound shocked, but it really wasn't that surprising. How long had they been waiting for this moment?
"No, I'm asking you to move in before the first date. Which is even crazier. But we're going out for breakfast tomorrow, so I'll try not to wear you out too much." Eddie winked at him, and Buck's cock made a half-hearted attempt at hardening again and he willed it to calm down. "That can be our first date, if you want me to ask you again."
Buck was so happy he could barely feel the jizz starting to dry in his pants. "Then let's get going, cowboy."
"How many times are you gonna call me that?" Eddie grumbled as he pulled out his phone, tapping at the screen until a ride was called.
"Hm, I don't know." Buck mused, trying to make them both look more presentable so they could try to keep a decent Uber rating. "Why don't you try to make me stop?"
"You're going to be the death of me."
"And what a beautiful death it would be."