Snakes Alive

Title: Snakes Alive
Authors: Jo, Carol, Tarabeth
Characters: Jack/Jay and Mason/Billy
Implements: Hand/Wooden Spoon

As Jay's eyes opened he looked at the bedside clock, it read 6:00 a.m. `Why can't I sleep in on the weekends,’ Jay thought as he flipped the blankets back. He slipped out from under Jack’s arm, and made his way over to the bathroom. His butt was still hurting a little. He grabbed the hand held mirror, and stood with his ass toward the wall mirror until he was able to get a good view of himself. He was still a little red. He could make out a few paddle imprints, but nothing that would bruise or last long. ‘Yeah, I’m going to feel that for a few days,’ he thought. He put the mirror down on the sink, and grabbed a pair of silk boxers out of the linen cabinet to put on.

As he made his was toward the kitchen, Jay turned on his laptop and headed for the fridge. Opening it he saw what he wanted, and he grabbed the orange juice. He took a long drink, and left just a swallow; so he wouldn't have to toss it or throw it away. He put the coffee on for Jack, because Jack was a total pain in the ass without his morning coffee. While the coffee was brewing Jay went back to his laptop and signed onto yahoo messenger to see if DJ was on. ‘Damn no DJ.’ Jay quickly typed out, "Hey Brat When you get this--either call me on my cell or IM me. I need to ask you a favor; it’ll probably get us into some deep trouble, but it sounds like a blast. Okay, thanks. Love ya, Jay." He read it over a few times to make sure things were worded and spelled correctly. Deciding it was all right, he clicked send, and waited to see if DJ was playing hide and seek. When he didn’t get a response, Jay closed his email account just as Jack awoke with a growl.

"Do I smell coffee?" Jack asked. "You're a life saver," he staggered out of bed and kissed Jay soundly. Then made his way to the bathroom to empty his bladder and brush his teeth. He came out and poured a black coffee, adding plenty of sugar. "I got bacon, cheese and mushrooms," he said, to Jay, "Fancy an omelet for breakfast?"

Jay lowered his laptop screen and got up. "Sure why not," Jay told him with a shrug of his shoulder. "I'll make the toast. So what kind of chores, does my Lord and Master have in mind for his humble servant to do while he is at the office?" Jay asked giving Jack a bow with folded hand. ‘God please tell me you’re going to the shop for a few hours.' Jay thought.

Jack raised an eyebrow. "The windows need washing," he said, casually. "Inside," he added quickly, "The outside was done yesterday while you were at work." Jack was busy cutting up the bacon and cheese, "Slice the mushrooms--will you, Baby," Jack asked. "I have to go pick up the truck from Mason's, then I need to do some shopping," he said, throwing the egg carton into a box, he kept for the local kindergarten.

Jay’s face twisted a bit. "Umm, can I go with you when you go get the truck?" Jay asked while slicing the mushrooms. "It won't take long to wash the windows, I can do them when we get back," he said popping a mushroom into his mouth. Jay gave him a grin, "Or not"

"Oh, they'll be done," Jack replied easily, deftly pouring the eggs into the pan. "Why would you want to come get the truck with me? Maybe the fact that Billy is there?" Jack teased gently, adding the bacon, cheese and mushrooms to the pan. He flipped the omelet out, and divided it between the two plates. "Tuck in while it's hot," he urged, tossing a soft cushion onto Jay's seat.

"No, just wanted to spend the day with you but," shrugging his shoulders as he took a bite," but if you don't want me around, I'll do as you say." Jay sat down on the soft cushion. "Oh and we need OJ, get the stuff with the pulp in it this time can you." Jay's ears perked when he heard a dog bark. ‘Damn it DJ's on.' Jay thought as he tried to wolf down his breakfast.

"I always want you around, sweetheart," Jack replied, "but you get really bored when I shop. That sounded like DJ’s on-line. I'll head off while you chat with her and then when I get back we can spend some time together, washing windows." Jack's eyes sparkled with laughter.

"Sounds like a ton of fun," Jay said getting up to put his plate in the sink. He tossed the cushion back onto the sofa, gave Jack a kiss good bye, and sat down at the computer.

SkaterJboi: Hey how’s my little girl doing this morning,

Skaterchick: Get fucked, If I can get in trouble I am all for it, what do you want me to do?

Jay sat and typed out what Billy wanted. DJ, sent a few LOLs, while Jay explained things to her. After a brief pause, Jay asked, "Oh yeah can you video it for him?"

Skaterchick: Sounds like a laugh, ok When (date) Where (address) Who (what's moms name) yeah I can do it, cost you a case of the best and a dollar for the movie.

SkaterJboi: I'll find out and send you the info.

After that was taken care of. DJ and Jay caught up on things that had happened since the last time they talked.

After signing off, Jay sighed; this was going to be funny as hell. Jay pouted as he realized that he had left the Twilight DVD in his backpack in the truck. He went to get the pale to wash the windows. "This fucking sucks," Jay yelled. He put on his ICP CD, cranked the music up, and started to mix the vinegar and water to do the windows.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Billy looked out the window and saw Jack at the truck. "Hey Jack, hold on a minute," he yelled out as he walked outside. He was moving a bit stiffly, he was going to be feeling Mason's paddling for the next couple of days. "I've been trying to ring Jay and he's not answering. Can you get him to ring me sometime today?" Billy's blue eyes were wide, innocent and Jack despite being a Top, fell for it.

"Sure," Jack answered, assuming it had something to do with Jay's work schedule.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Jay was just finishing the last of the windows when he saw Jack's truck pull up to the curb. Tossing the rag into the pail, Jay headed over to the stereo and turned it off, then grabbed his shoes, he slipped them on to go down and help Jack unload the truck.

"Hi sweetheart," Jack said, "The windows look great. You must have had the music up high, Billy has been trying to phone you most of the morning." Jack laughed as he saw Jay turn around to head for the loft and the phone. "Hey grab a bag," Jack protested, "You'll save me two trips if you do."

"Oh yeah," Jay blushed, "That's what I came down for." He said, by habit Jay nosed around it as he went up the stairs, "Did you happen to pick up some MD?" Jay knew a, ‘NO’ was coming but he had to ask. "What did Billy want? Did he say?"

"You know better than that Brat," Jack growled. "I never buy Mountain Dew, even if you want to build that MD Christmas tree. No, Billy didn't say what he wanted. I guess it must be something to do with that job offer. I’ve got to go down to the shop; I have a lot to do before Christmas, and so I may be late tonight."

"Ass," Jay sneered at the door after it closed. Jay took the phone out onto the fire escape, for the last week it had been they only fresh air he got once he was home from work. Jay dialed Billy’s number. "Hi, can I please speak to Billy,"

"It's Billy; is that you Jay? Are you safe to talk? Mason has gone to help his Mom in the deli. Just wondered how the snake plan is coming."

"Yeah its safe Jack's in the shop, DJ said yes, all I need is when, where and who. DJ can only get a garden snake this time of year. She also said she’d record it for you. Maybe you can let your friend know what’s going on, so DJ will be able to make an escape fast--if anything were to go wrong."

"Great," Billy said, "How about I come over? I can ring Johnno and find out when they're going to be home and give him a heads up. He won't spoil the surprise."

"Yeah come on over, see you in a few, Bye." Jay went out to the truck to get his backpack. On his way back in, he went to his shop area and grabbed two Dews out of his stash, just in case Billy may want one.

Billy turned up about fifteen minutes later, a six-pack of mountain dew in his hands. "Great minds think alike," he laughed when he saw the two cans sitting on the table. "I guess Mountain Dew better be on the shopping list for the garage, from now on."

Billy frowned slightly. He'd wanted to go down to the garage today, but Mason had firmly vetoed the idea. It still rankled somewhat, but with his sore butt, he hadn't pushed the issue. The couple of swats Mason had given him to reinforce the decision had stung--and made him even more determined to follow the snake plan.

"You sure your friend's okay with this?" he asked Jay. "Hey, I'm not doubting you or her, but my parents don't tend to play fair, and my mother is terrified of snakes." Billy's smile was pure evil.

"Yeah, DJ’s all for it." Jay set down a bowl of chicken salad and some crackers, "She's already texted me twice, since I talked to you, to find out if it was still a go, she may be able to get a King snake instead, I think a Gopher Snake is better, ‘cause they look somewhat like a rattle snake." He told Billy as he popped open a can with his teeth.

Billy grinned. "How about both, one for my darling mother, and one for my bully of a father." Billy took out his cell phone and sent a text message. "Now to wait for Johnno to get back to us. He's going to have to get DJ out safely and then collect the snakes so they don't get hurt." Billy's phone beeped and he scanned the text message. "Fucking hell," he exploded "They've fucking fired him, he's working out his notice, so we’ll have to do it a week or so before Christmas. He says he’ll be more than happy to help with the plan." Billy looked at Jay, "Can we arrange it for next Saturday?" he asked. "Johnno will help take photos, and make damn sure DJ gets away safe." He took a mouthful of chicken salad, "Hey, this is really good."

"Hold on," Jay took out his phone and typed in a message. "She will get back to us in a minute," Jay got a silly grin across his face. "Too bad we can't go and watch the fun ourselves." Jay told him. Jay picked up his phone and looked at the text, "Yeah, Saturday’s a go. Jack makes it for me, so I won’t eat junk food." Jay said with a smile. "Speaking of, I got some Ding Dongs and Ho Hos," Jay got up and went to the closet.

"Maybe he can pass the recipe onto Mason," Billy replied, "That way I might get out of eating that god awful salad." He looked at Jay. "You do know if our Tops find out about this stunt, our butts are toast don't you? Just giving you a chance to pull out if you want to. I'm personally going to be hiding all the wooden spoons we own."

"Yeah, I'll probably hide that damn paddle of his, and the thing he has in the closet." Jay shivered at the thought of getting another strapping. "But oh well, we'll live."

Jay flipped open his laptop, and opened IM.

SkaterChick: I will get back to you either by IM or text. No later then Wednesday at fifteen hundred hours. That's 3:00 p.m. Jaybird.

SkaterJboi: Ok that's fine Jack won't be home.

After a brief conversation DJ signed off, and Jay went into his files to delete the conversation.

"Ok, if all goes well, she should mail out the DVD on Sunday, it should be here sometime Tuesday or Wednesday. Oh, I guess I should tell you that DJ and her family are all private investigators, so she knows what she’s doing." Jay told Billy to give him a little peace of mind.

"I’ve got to work on Wednesday," Billy said "And if I skip out to be with you, Mason will be asking questions. Nasty suspicious mind my Top has," he grinned at Jay. "Any problems text me. You're coming to the garage Thursday right? I need to write up some advertising, and if anyone asks that's why I came to see you. Mate, I really appreciate this." Billy looked around and his eyes fell on Amie's aquarium. "Can I check out your snake? Unlike my parents, I love them. I'm just not sure Thomas would be too impressed, if I got one."

"Yeah sure, she’s friendly, I'm thinking of letting her breed. A guy at the pet shop in Kelowna has an albino male and he wants to see what we get,” Jay told him taking Amie out of her aquarium. “Some guy was going to let her loose, so I took her. Yeah, that's a good plan to keep this business like, don't want them to get any wiser."

"If we get really lucky, they won't get to hear about it," Billy replied, letting Amie slide up his arm and across his shoulders. "She's cute," he said carefully handing her back to Jay. "I'm just hoping my parents don't over-react. When I got into a fight at school, I got expelled and stuck in juvie for about a month on assault charges before I got shipped off to my uncle."

Jay took Amie back, and put her back in her home, making sure the lid was closed tight. He turned to Billy. "I've been in Juvie once, Shane put me in it for the weekend, when he caught me high, and I would not tell him were I got my stuff from. When I got home, he beat my ass black and blue; I was about fifteen I think. How come you got sent off?" Jay asked being nosy.

"Like I said: assault. I was at a boarding school and some of the town kids started picking on one of the eleven year olds. I stepped in, I was fourteen, the kid couldn't fight for toffee, and I put him in the hospital. The kid's parents pressed charges, so I ended up in lock up. I think my parents, in the end paid them off, and suddenly juvie was too crowded, so I got shipped to my uncle who took a strap to me, until I couldn't walk for a week." Billy shrugged. "Old news, I got out and found Mace."

Jay let out a low whistle, "Wow, So what kind of stuff do you do for fun, I mean working on cars and stuff can be a blast but boring. Do you skate, ride, bike, play games?" Jay asked he was running out of things to say. "I'd show you the yard up on the roof, but I’m not allowed out of the loft, on the weekends and after 12:30 p.m. on week days. Thankfully, that will only be for a few more days. Well at least Jack didn't make it a month like the last time; God was I bored out of my tree." Jay went over to the fridge for a Dew, "You want one, or would you like a beer instead."

"Beer would be great," Billy replied; glad to get off the subject of his background. "I bought the Dew for you. I don't really like the stuff. I guess I'm lucky my job is my hobby. When I'm not at work, I tinker with other things. I want to super power Mason's stand mixer, but he says if I even touch it with a tool he'll paddle me. Despite what we're planning at the moment, I don't go around asking for it." Billy grinned. "I play some pool, but Mason usually has me on a pretty short leash."

Jay open his mouth to say something and then shut it shaking his head he laughed, "My sister-in-law used a 18volt cordless drill to mix cookie dough once, God was Shane ever pissed." Jay told him. "Jack lets me do pretty much as I want on my free time, as long as he knows where I am, who I’m with, stay out of trouble, and I’m home by dinner time." Jay grabbed himself a beer as well; he wasn’t sure how Jack would react to him drinking this early in the afternoon, but one never knows until he does it. "Hey you want to watch a movie? I’ve got most of the new one that are playing now,”

"Cool," Billy replied, "I love the movies; it’s the one thing I miss by being in Jade Heights. Mason's really strange; he once got a movie that you had to read to understand."

"Yeah I don't like those either, If I wanted to read the movie--I’d buy the book," Jay told him.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Jack stomped upstairs in a bad mood. One of the pieces he was working on was just not looking right, and he wanted to check his sketch. He was upset when he found out he'd left it upstairs on his work desk. It took him a minute to identify Billy reclining on the sofa, with Jay next to him. He casually looked at the screen and his temper let loose. "Jason, what the hell are you watching?"

Billy jumped almost ten feet in the air and landed right on his butt. "Ouch," he said, bouncing up. He looked at Jack and gulped.

Jay jumped, dropped his beer, spun around, and about wet his pants all in a spit second after Jack’s voice boomed across the room. Jay swallowed the lump in his throat. "Humm, Twilight."

“The bootlegged copy," Jack said in a dangerous voice. "Did I not make my opinion about that clear yesterday?" Jack throttled down his anger. "Billy, I suggest you leave. I want to have a discussion with Jason."

Billy shuddered under Jack's gaze and glanced at his fellow Brat sympathetically. He knew the full name was never good. "Yes sir," he said and almost crawled out.

"Clean up the spilled drink," Jack ordered. "I’m not happy at the moment, so I suggest you stay quiet and do what you're told."

Jay had seen that look once before, he knew Jack would never actually strike him, however he was not taking the chance. Jack was pissed off over something. Jay didn't think the movie had anything to do with it, but it just didn't help matters.

Jay grabbed his backpack off the sofa. Before Jack could grab him, Jay was out the door, he almost dragged Billy down the steps. Jay quickly went into the storage area and locked the door. "Come on I'll show you out the back way." Jay told Billy, as he headed toward the garage. "I'm going to stay up there until he cools off," Jay pointed to an area in the rafters. Once Billy was gone Jay climbed up into a small closed in area; it was not an easy task with one arm.

Jay sat on one of the old wooden boxes and stuffed his backpack behind him. HE closed his eyes tight to fight back the tears.

"What the fuck..." Jack was dumbfounded as his Brat ran out of the loft. "Oh shit," Jack sat down heavily and put his head in his hands, what had he done? He'd taken his temper out on his beloved Brat. No wonder Jay had run out with his past history. Jack had a sudden idea, and rang Jay's cell phone, praying his Brat had it on him.

Jay felt his backpack buzzing; he pulled out the phone and glanced at it. ‘Jackson,’ danced across the screen. Jay thought about letting it go to voice mail, but figured he was already up to his neck in trouble, He cleared his throat as he flipped the phone open, "Yes, sir".

"Oh thank God," Jack was relieved. "Jay, sweetheart all I can say is I’m sorry. Please come home, I promise I'm not angry with you. I was pissed about something and took it out on you. I can't say I’m sorry enough. Please come home."

Jay looked over the side of his little hide a way and gulped. "Be up in a few," Jay told him. Jay crawled to the edge of the platform, and then turned himself around so his legs were dangling off. If he had two good arms, he could do this, but one arm wasn’t going to cut it. He pulled himself back up, grabbed his cell phone, and pushed Jack's number. "I'm in the garage," Jay told his lover in a very small voice. "I'm hidden and can't get down."

Jack took the steps two at a time. He looked up at the rafters, and couldn't help to smile. “Lower yourself down, sweetheart," he said, "I'll catch you, I promise. I won't let you fall."

"Catch," Jay said tossing the backpack down toward Jack. Jay let his leg slip over the side again wiggling his way over the side. He felt Jack grab his legs and let out a worried breath. It only took a few minutes for Jay to be down where he belonged--in Jack's strong arms. "I didn't mean to run, I just panicked, I guess."

"I'm sorry for scaring you." Jack replied, kissing Jay. "I should never ever take my bad mood out on you." He carried Jay back up to the loft and laid him on the bed. "The DVD goes back to its owner tomorrow right?" he questioned, as he started nipping and sucking on Jay's body.

"Yes," Jay said slowly undoing Jack's shirt. ‘Even with one hand, I still got it,’ Jay thought as he got the last button undone. He started to work Jack's left nipple with his fingertips, and slid down Jack's body to his belt. "Thought you had work, to do?" Jay asked. Once Jack's pants were loosened, it didn't take long for Jay's hand to find what he was looking for. "Oh wow," Jay gasped as he gently stroked Jack's hard, hot, dripping cock. "Umm Jack, umm, Oh, yeah, mmmm. Yeah that's the spot." Jay murmured as Jack found hot spots on Jay's body.

"Work can wait," Jack mumbled, "Part of the joy of being the boss." He leaned over and ran his tongue down Jay's neck and then bit down hard on the junction between the neck and the shoulder. Then as Jay gasped in pain, he licked the spot. His other hand slipped down Jay's pants and he released his lover's cock. He was about ready to cum, just from the foreplay.

Jay had to tell himself, ‘no not yet,' a few times, He wiggled under Jack, "shorts, off, now." Jay’s grunts matched Jack's strokes. Jay’s mouth soon replaced his fingers on Jack’s nipple. He sucked it hard, and then flicked his tongue across it. Jack gasped, and Jay bit lightly just enough to hurt but not to leave marks. He felt Jack's body jerk, and he started to suck again.

"Who's the Top around here?" Jack growled, as he flipped Jay over. He quickly stripped Jay and then kicked off his own pants. He reached over to grab some lube, and slowly began to prepare his lover, first inserting one finger, and then two and finally three, gently stretching him. He heard Jay keen as he removed his fingers. Jack leaned over and whispered in Jay’s ear. "Do you want my big, hard, throbbing cock to fuck you now?"

"Yes." Jay said. He spread his legs, so Jack could fuck him. His ass was still a little tender from the paddling; however, he was not going to let Jack know this. Getting fucked with a sore ass was a turn on for him. Jay wanted to hurry it along, he wanted to push himself back towards Jack, but feared all activity would come to a stop if he did so. He let out a low moan, "Jack, please just fuck me," he whimpered into his pillow.

Jack didn't hesitate, and the two men, fell into a rhythm they'd established that brought the most pleasure to both of them. Jack brushed his Brat's prostate, as he thrust in and then, almost fully out, until thrusting fully in again. He felt his balls tighten, "Cum my love," he ordered Jay, as he came hard.

Jay panted as he collapsed onto the wet sheets pulling Jack down with him, his body quivered from his climax, his breathing was hard, and he could feel Jack's breath on this neck. He let out a sigh as he came down from the high. Stretching like a cat he turned his face to look up at his lover. "Damn, Jack, that was the best, yet."

Jack smiled back at him, leant over, and kissed him. "Pretty damned good," he replied. "Let's get cleaned up, and then I vote we snuggle up and watch a DVD. How about you get dressed, make some popcorn and grab a couple of drinks, and I'll choose the DVD." Jack pulled on some jeans and bare chested made his way over to the DVD machine. He smiled lazily, as he turned on the screen, His eyebrows raised slightly, when he saw Jay had Mountain Dew, but made no comment.

"This DVD gets returned tomorrow," he said, firmly "But while we've got it we might as well watch it." He turned on Twilight.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Billy was laughing out loud, as he watched the recording of his parents receiving his early Christmas presents--of two snakes. "Oh God, that's so funny, I never knew my mother could move that fast," he said, "I can't believe my father pissed himself." He looked at Jay. "Johnno said DJ got away clean, and he got the snakes out safe. He's gifted them to his nephews, much to his sister's distress. Have I thanked you enough for setting this up for me?"

Jay was laughing just as hard, if not harder, as he watched the clip of the 'Christmas gone wrong'. "Yeah man the case of Monsters Energy Drinks says it all dude,” Jay wiped the tears from his eyes, "I haven't laugh this hard in years. DJ texted me afterwards an told me, but she wouldn't tell me a damn thing, the little prat."

"Johnno sent me some still photos," Billy admitted. "He sent them to my cell." He showed Jay the pictures. "When I first saw them, I almost choked on my muesli. Mason was suspicious, but I explained that I'd subscribed to joke-a-day. I'm not sure he bought it."

"Hey! Your supposed to share all, remember bro," Jay whined, holding out his hand. "I want to see too."

Billy laughed and handed over his cell. Billy had closed the garage early so they could watch the DVD. Jay had found that working a couple of days a week at the garage was proving to be very profitable, for both he and Billy.

Jay flipped through the photos on the phone. "Oh God, bro, these are priceless. You better send them to a safe place, ‘cause if your LaM sees these he’ll shit his leather throne."

Billy just grinned. "Hey, those are safe on there," he replied. "As far as he's concerned, I'm sending my parents lumps of coal for Christmas, which I still may do anyway. He's less than happy with that plan. He reckons, we don't need them in our life. I guess I better reopen, if Mason hears I closed early, he'll want to know why." As he raised the door he saw a car drive past the garage. He went white "Oh fuck," he moaned, "Those are my parents."

"Mason’s not at home, so if no one answers the door they'll leave? Right?" Jay asked Billy. Jay knew there was no way Billy wanted to face angry parents as well as an angry Top.

"No," Billy replied, bitterly, "They know Mason is the local Fire Captain. I guess the only good thing is, that there are no police, with them." Billy turned to Jay; "I promise I'll keep quiet about you and DJ. I'm so dead, but it was worth it." The remains of the devil may care glint, was still evident in his blue eyes.

'Yeah no cops was a good things, as long as they didn't call the local ones,' Jay thought as he popped a Monster open. "Bro, in case you forgot Mason already knows I'm involved with this, remember the BBQ in your back yard. Come on, we've got a few hours left yet, and working on a motor is the best thing to get your mind off this right now." Jay told him as he tried to pull Billy's mind off the trouble he is in. "Besides, I think I figured out what wrong with the rice burner." Jay let out a breath and shook his head 'Man what the hell is Jack going to do when he hears about this.' Jay thought as he started checking the wiring on the bike.

Billy chuckled. "You know me too well," he said to Jay. "Give me a motor and I'm happy. Well at least we can keep DJ's name out of it, we don't want my parents to cause trouble for her. I'm just glad I own this place outright and have a good relationship with the petrol company. They can't threaten me that way, and they can't cut me out of the will, that happened years ago."

Billy turned to one of the cars in for service and popped the hood. "You need me for the rice burner?" Billy asked, his mind turning to business.

"No man, I found the trouble, some how the wire got a bare spot on it. It was grounding out, that's why it would start and die." 'If his parents can cause trouble with petrol companies,’ Jay’s eyes got wide. "Umm, Billy do you think your parents can cause me trouble with the post office?"

"No, bro," Billy replied. "They don't know you exist, and I intend for it to stay that way. Don't worry."

"Cool, thanks. Alright that's all done, what's next?" Jay straddled the motorcycle, and with one good kick-start. It came roaring to life, and Jay laughed when Billy jumped a little. He let the motor idle for a few minutes to make sure it didn't turn off again. "Yeah that should hold the old thing together for a few hundred miles," Jay said as he turned off the motorcycle. ‘Man I miss riding,' Jay thought as he put the key on the pegboard with the slip.

"I don't think there's anything else today," Billy replied. "I know on Thursday, we've got about four bikes booked in, so if you want to push off early, I don't mind. I'm in hiding," he grinned at Jay.

"I don't know, I feel like I'm leaving to go stand alone in front of the firing squad." Jay told him. "Jack's not going to be home until after five anyway, so I’ll just help clean up."

"Thanks I appreciate it. Your help means I can finish this car off, before I have to close up,"

The alarm went off at 5.00 p.m. and Billy, as usual, managed not to throw a spanner at it. "That's five," he said to Jay, "Time to knock off." Billy slowly closed up the garage and turned to walk home. As he approached the front door, he took a deep breath, opened the door and yelled "Mason, I'm home."

Mason exited the kitchen with a very sour expression on his face. He was drinking from a bottle of water, and had a wooden spoon in the back pocket of his jeans. He kissed Billy on the cheek. "Hello Darling," he said. "You'll never guess who came by the firehouse looking for you this afternoon." He put his arm around Billy's waist. "Why don't we have a seat on the sofa and talk about it.”

Billy looked at Mason, his eyes flickered towards the wooden spoon. The expression on Mason's face did not bode well for his butt.

"Well, I did see my parents come into town," he said. "So I'd guess it might have been them." Billy squirmed out of Mason's hold and headed towards the stairs, rather than the sofa, "I really need to get cleaned up," he stuttered and found his way up the stairs blocked by a ginger ball of fur. "Damn it, Thomas," Billy swore at the kitten.

Mason took Billy by the hand, and led him to sofa. He took a seat and undid Billy's jeans. He gave them a good yank, causing them to pool around Billy's ankles, and with the precision and speed of a skilled and trained firefighter and Top, Mason pulled Billy over his lap. He held Billy tightly around the waist, and rested his right hand on his Brat's butt. "All right now, Monkey, would you care to tell me, why you think they came to town looking for you?"

Billy felt very vulnerable suddenly. He shut his eyes and whimpered slightly, "To wish me Merry Christmas and say all is forgiven," he said, and then wished he could keep his smart mouth shut.

Mason tapped his fingers on the round white cheeks laid out before him. "Well darling, they told a slightly different story. My recommendation to you, my sweet Brat, is that when you find yourself in this position, telling the truth is the best strategy. Sarcasm and lies will add to your time with the spoon. And a nice one it is. I stopped at the store on my way home and picked up the most lovely cherry wood spoon. It's got some nice weight behind it. Now, would you like to try answering that question again? Why do you think your parents came to our sweet little town, a mere seven hour drive for them, looking for you?"

"I guess they didn't appreciate my early Christmas present to them," Billy mumbled. "Come on Mason, it was just a bloody joke."

"And why do you think they didn't appreciate it?" Mason was prepared to keep Billy draped over his knee for as long as his Brat to understand the dangers of his prank.

"Neither of them like snakes," Billy replied. "They were perfectly harmless," he protested.

"Anything else they might not have liked?" Mason asked.

"Can't think of anything else, especially when I'm in this position," Billy moaned.

"Well, Monkey, you're going to be in this position for a while. Your not getting up without a well paddled butt, and I'm not paddling until we've fully talked this out. So, you might want to think a little harder and start talking."

"That's not fair," Billy protested. "It was a joke, a prank, I sent a couple of totally harmless snakes to my parents. I arranged for a couple of still photos and a recording and that's it. I swear that's all.”

Mason's body grew rigid, and his voice raised several decibels. "You did what?"

‘Fuck, fuck, fuck,’ Billy chanted to himself in his head. He only realised, as the words came out of his mouth, that his parents, and therefore Mason, knew nothing about the recording or photos. He wondered if he could possibly dig himself any deeper.

"And you told me not to do it," he hurried on. "Not to invite my parents back into our life. You said my butt would pay for it."

"You are correct, I made it very clear to you that you were to not do this. Willfully disobeying me is disrespectful to our relationship and me. I realize that your parents do not deserve any respect...but that doesn't mean you get to show them this level of disrespect either. Do you realize you could have been arrested for this little stunt? Did you involve Jay in it?"

"You know I can't answer that," Billy almost wailed. "I don't see what I could be arrested for. The snakes weren't dangerous, and they could have kept them as pets if they wanted. I didn't mean to be disrespectful," he finished with a slight catch, in his voice.

"I'll take that as a yes Jay was involved," Mason said. He was angry about Billy’s stunt, but his husband’s whimpers and hiccupped breaths were breaking his heart. He turned Billy over on his lap, and held his hands--gently massaging the palms with his thumbs. Mason looked into Billy's eyes. His look was firm; yet still loving and ensuring safety. "Billy you worked with someone to trespass on your parents’ property and terrorize them with snakes. Do you really not see how that is illegal?"

"It was a courier," Billy replied, "And she was let onto the property after showing her credentials to Johnno. Did my parents happen to mention they'd terminated his employment with them by any chance?" Billy’s voice was bitter. "The snakes are happy with his nephews. Honestly, I don't think the police would be able to charge me with anything, and even if they did," Billy put on his best little boy voice and batted his eyelashes, "Please Judge, I really thought my parents would like their early Christmas present."

"Monkey," Mason said. He put his hand under Billy's chin to ensure his Brat was paying full attention. "I don't think the police would have any problem arresting the person who contracted with the courier. Not to mention that you, your butt and me have already had discussions about you involving others in your naughtiness. Johnno especially, because I worried that he could loose his job for this sort of thing."

Billy's puppy dog eyes were turning sad.

"I count that as you involving Jay, Johnno, and a courier. Was there anyone else?"

"Not that I can think of," Billy replied softly. "I'm not unhappy about what I did, you know?" he looked at Mason. "I’m upset that you're angry with me." Billy bit his lower lip, "Do you wanna see the pictures?" he asked, hopefully.

Mason gave Billy a very stern look. "No Brat, I do not want to see the pictures. You will be destroying them, before you send your parents an apology."

Mason stopped and pulled Billy close, hugging him and rubbing his back. "I know your parents were horrible, and sadly, I imagine there are quite a few thing about them that you haven't told me. But, Monkey it it’s not good for you to keep seeking revenge on them. Eventually it’s going to get you in trouble with someone other than me, and I couldn't bare that. Please Baby, can you talk to me about why you wanted to hurt them, and can you tell me what I can do to help you get them out of your life."

"They hurt me. The abandonment I can handle, but I still have nightmares about Juvie. They had me locked in that place for a month. I found out only the tough survive, and I wasn't that tough. Then even after I was released, I got sent to my Uncle," Billy looked at Mason with haunted eyes, "I've blocked out a lot of what he did to me, but I do know I couldn't walk for a week. You know I phoned my parents and begged them to come and pick me up. I'd learnt my lesson. They fucking laughed at me. What's a couple of snakes after that? The nightmares aren't as bad now, with you, but I still hear them laughing at me."

Mason took the wooden spoon out of his back pocket and tucked it into the cushion of the couch. He picked his husband up; Billy's pants were still pooled around his ankles, and fell to the floor. "No Baby, I think you're right; I don't think a couple of snakes compare to that at all." Mason walked them both upstairs to the bedroom. He undressed Billy and tucked him into bed, and then removed his own clothes and climbed into bed, pulling Billy close to him. He gently rubbed his husband’s back. Billy was resting his head on Mason's chest and couldn't see the tears falling down Mason's face. "I've got you, my love. I won't let anybody hurt you again."

Billy had tears running down his face and was shaking with reaction. When he felt Mason holding him in bed, he curled up, but then sat up abruptly when he heard the tears in Mason's voice. “Don't be sad," he begged. "They're not worth it, and I've got you now. Nobody can hurt me like that again.”

Mason ran his fingers through Billy's hair. "I'm sorry Baby. It's hard for me not to be sad about you being hurt so bad." Mason kissed Billy on the top of the head. "I'm glad we have each other now, and you're correct, nobody can hurt you like that again."

They laid quietly in bed for a while, gently cuddling and petting each other, reassuring each other with soft touches. The touches, and both of their needs for comfort and assurances, eventually led to Mason making slow and gentle love to his husband, after which they both fell back into the gentle cuddles. Billy fell asleep in Mason's arms.

When Billy woke up, he looked up into Mason's eyes and asked if he was still in trouble.

Mason ran his fingers through Billy's hair. "Yes, my love. Not as much as you were when you came through the door this evening. But, you did purposely defy me, and I assume you did it knowing you would end up with a sore bottom. So, for that reason, and to maintain the rules of the house, I'm going to give you a spanking before bed tonight."

Billy gave a defeated sigh, and Mason pulled his husband up into his lap and kissed his lips. "You've had two revenge stunts now, I don't want there to be a third."

Billy nodded and let out a long yawn. Mason gave him another tender kiss. "I'm going to go down stairs and make us some dinner. Why don't you try and get a little more sleep. Come down when you wake up, or I'll come get you when it's ready."

Mason had pots boiling on the stove to feed his Brat a nice dinner of sausage and mash, when he saw his sleepy head enter the kitchen and take a seat at the counter.

"Hi Monkey," Mason said. "You still look pretty tired. Dinners going to be another twenty minutes or so, are you sure you want to be up?"

Billy gave a sleepy eyed yawn, and Mason rubbed his back. When the phone rang, Mason continued to rub Billy's back, while he listened to Jackson. "I think maybe you should chat will Billy," Mason said handing the phone over to his husband.

"Hey Jack," Billy said. "All I can say is I'm in trouble for sending snakes to my parents as a prank. I'm not going to tell you anything more than that, so it's no use asking anymore."

Mason resumed rubbing Billy's back. "Thank you honey," he said, "I didn't want to tell on Jason either. I think Jack and I are going to need to figure something out to make sure we all keep our friendships in tack."

The timer on the oven beeped, and Mason pulled out two cake pans filled with Billy's favorite chocolate cake. He smiled, as Billy seemed to quickly wake up. "I was sure it was the smell of chocolate cake that had brought you down stairs."

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Jay made his way up to the loft, once inside he stripped--his clothes leaving a trail leading towards the bathroom. Once that was done he headed into the front room when he saw Amie, his mind went back to the video DJ sent. ‘Man all I had to do was tell him she said no then Billy wouldn’t be in trouble.’ Jay thought as he headed over to the bed flopping down. He laid his arm over his eyes and he stayed that way until Jack got home.

"God, I hate Christmas," Jack said as he walked into the apartment. "Suddenly everyone and their dog want custom made jewelry as presents. I can fob off most, but there are some I can't refuse." He looked at Jason, "What's up baby?"

Jay moved his arm just enough to see Jack. "Nothing just tired I guess. I kind of forgot to put that pan in the oven like you asked me too." Jay told him as he played with the sheet.

"That's ok," Jack said easily, "I'm almost sure there's enough chicken salad left for dinner." He knew something was troubling his Brat, but he wasn't going to push the issue. "Have a good day at the garage?" he asked casually.

"Um, Billy and I ate the last of that Saturday." He told Jack as he chewed his thumbnail. "Yeah it was alright, I got to work on a bike that was made before you were born, man were they ever ugly." He watched Jack head into the kitchen, and was not sure if he should just came out and tell Jack about the stunt or just wait to see if he would find out. ‘God I hope Mason doesn't put things together,' he thought as chewed on his nails.

"How about we go out to the Maple Grill?" Jack suggested. "We deserve a night out together."

"Sure, I'll get dressed," Jay told him as he headed for the closet. Jay was not all that hungry, but if he said anything about not being hungry Jack would figure something was wrong and then start pushing for answers. "You know we need a good pizza place that delivers in this town," Jay told him. He pulled on his pants, they were too big and hung off his hips showing off just a hint of his treasure trail. He then slipped on his “Motorcross Guys Do It in the Dirt’ t-shirt. "Ok, Ready." Jay said as he pulled on his shoes.

"No, we do not need a pizza place that delivers." Jack said, opening the door and following Jay out into the cold night. He threw a jacket to Jay as the cold hit. "I prefer to make my own pizza, that way it's slightly more healthy than the take out variety. You don't seem to complain when I make it, anyway."

They found a table at the Maple Grille and ordered. Jack dug in, but did not fail to notice his Brat was playing with his food. Jack had a flash of insight, "What was his Brat feeling guilty about?" he wondered. "Eat, Jay. We'll talk when we get home."

Jay’s face twisted at Jacks mention of the “talk”. Jay stabbed a peace of meat and took a bite; his mind was working over time. He scanned the room, and a sly smile came across his face, just as his foot touched Jack’s inner thigh, "I know something better we can do at home instead of talking." Jay gave a wink.

Jack ignored the jolt in his cock. “Talk," he said firmly, he knew when Jay was trying to use sex as a way to postpone unpleasant things. It made him even more determined to get to the bottom of things.

Once Jay’s stomach told his mind to stop fretting and eat, Jay polished off his dinner in no time. Drinking the last of his beer, he gave Jack a grin. "Can we play a few games of pool, before we go home?" he asked. "Please"

Jack thought for a moment. "Okay," he replied, "Best of three?" Jack led the way out of the Maple Grille and walked with his lover over to the lounge.

"Two beers," Jack ordered at the bar. Cameron smiled at him and said "Sure sweetheart." Jack ignored the flirting and fixed Cameron with a cold eye. "Taken," he stated, blandly, and took the two beers over to one of the pool tables. He kissed Jay.

Jay returned the kiss deeply making sure Cameron saw, so he would know who Jack was with. "I'll kick his fucking ass back to were ever he's from if he tries anything with you." Jay said in his dominant voice. He gave a murderous eye to Cameron. "Who the hell does he think he is anyway?" Jay asked as he racked up the game. "You want to go first or do you want me to show you how it's done?"

Jack was amused by Jay's response to Cameron's flirting. "You don't have anything to worry about," Jack reassured his lover. "I'll break," he said and promptly cleared the table. "Your break," he smiled sweetly at Jay.

"Show off," Jay snapped with a smile. Jay racked up the balls and took the first shot. He cleared the table, and then flipped a coin to decide who would start the next round. Jay won the flip. He knew all the ways to get Jack hot and bothered, so he positioned himself at the end of the table, and shifted his legs a bit, causing his pants to slide a little more off his hips. He moved his ass this way and then that, and could feel Jack’s, and probably a few other guys’ eyes, on him. Jay thrust his hips toward the table as he broke and cleared all the striped balls with four shots.

When he scratched, he gave Jay a sly grin. "Oops, your turn," he said as he walked behind Jack and pinched his left cheek.

Cameron adjusted himself slightly and grumbled to himself, "Where's Chad when I need him?" He saw Kipper raise an eyebrow at him and smiled, he really liked Chad's best friend.

"Slut," Jack said, affectionately knowing exactly what Jay was trying to do. Jack turned his attention back to the pool game, and finished it with a flourish. "I guess all that time hanging out in pool halls were worth it," he drawled. "Let's go home, before I have to fight for your honour. You got a whole lot of people in here hot and bothered."

You said three of the best and the last one was a tie." Jay grabbed the triangle. Jay turn back towards Jack, he had the triangle framing his lower half--he was so hard, he probably could bust rocks. "Besides, you like it when I play slut."

"Let's go," Jack growled, letting a little bit of his Top show. "We'll play the decider some other time. Your little display is making me want to take you here, and now, and somehow I don't think the owners would approve." He grabbed Jay and they walked out. "This is not going to affect that talk we’re going to have," Jack whispered in Jay's ear. "I suspect whatever you're worried about is something that's happened between you and Billy. I suppose I could always call Mason and ask if he knows what's going on."

"Nothing happen between Billy and me, and I’m not worried about anything or anyone." Jay told him, carefully leaving off the, 'but my own ass.' "I was just having some fun to show that jerkass that you belong to me. So there's no reason to be calling Mason; he can't help, nothings on fire." Jay zipped up his jacket. ‘At least not yet," he thought as he and Jack headed for home.

They entered the loft, and Jack glanced up and saw it was only 8.30 p.m. He picked up the phone and rang Mason. He wasn't going to push Jay, but he could see if Mason knew anything about what his Brat might be feeling guilty about.

"Hey are you going to help take a shower or not?" Jay yelled out from the bathroom, when he didn’t get an answer, he stepped out into the main room. "Who are you calling?" Jay asked.

"Hi Mason," Jack said, "How are you today?" He listened to the reply. "Tough evening. Do you happen to know if my Brat and your Brat have done anything we should concern ourselves with?" A couple of minutes later Jack heard a sleepy voice, "Hello Billy, Mason says you have something to tell me."

Jay had a funny feeling Jack would call Mason to find out what was going on, but he never expected Mason to have Billy rat him out like that. Jay let out a sigh; he leaned against the doorframe and watched Jack for any signs. 'Damn I should of hid that damn paddle.’ Jay thought as he pulled his T-shirt back on.

"Thanks Mason, I appreciate that," Jack said, and then hung up the phone. He turned to Jay, "You have a loyal friend there," he said blandly. "He just told me why he was in trouble, and I seem to remember you offered to help him with the plan. I also seem to remember I advised you, that I wouldn't be pleased if you did. Do you have anything to say in your defense, or have I jumped to a conclusion and you can truthfully say you had nothing to do with it?"

Jay wanted to step back into the bathroom and lock the door but instead his good arm dropped down behind him automatically his fingers grabbed a hold of the waistband of his pants. "No sir," Jay whispered. Jay felt his stomach tighten, like it did when he was in trouble, and his heart started to beat a little faster.

"I'm guessing you're feeling guilty because you felt if you'd said no at any stage, Billy wouldn't have gone through with it? Therefore he wouldn't be in so much trouble with Mason at the moment. Come and sit with me sweetheart," he ordered, softly.

Jay walked over and sat where Jack patted. He kept his eyes down and his mouth shut; he could feel Jack’s eyes on him. He turned sideways and curled his legs up under himself, and then folded his arm under his head. He laid it onto the back of the sofa. Letting out the breath he was holding, he looked over at Jack. "Sorry, I should of told Billy that DJ said no, and that probably would of been the end of it, but I couldn't. I felt like I had to help him--to get back at his parents for the shit they've done to him." Jay gave Jack a smirk. "And it was funny."

"You do realise the kind of trouble you could have been in?" Jack asked, his face serious. "I know DJ is beyond competent, but things could have gone wrong, and then she would have been right in the frame, for some serious consequences, as could you and Billy." Jack looked at his Brat, "And I know I asked you not to get yourself involved. I do understand why you did it, so I think the paddle stays where it is, but I am going to spank you."

"Man the shit I go through for friends." Jay said letting out a sigh. "You know this will be the first time I get my ass roasted and she doesn't."

It wasn't long before Jay was over Jack's lap. Jack began to spank his Brat, making sure that the lesson would be learnt. He landed three spanks on one spot, then moved up slightly and repeated the action, and continued until every spot was covered.

"Owe, Dude move around." Jay yelped when all three swats landed in the same spot. It wasn't long Jay was in tears. He could tell by the force of the swats and how they landed that this lesson was to be learned and learned well. "OWW," Jay yelled as let go of the pillow he was biting into "I get it, I'll listen." Jay babbled as he tired to keep his breathing normal, he couldn't. Jay finally stopped fighting it and went limp.

Jack stopped only when Jay's bottom was a fiery red. "All over now Baby," he said, his hand gently, stroking Jay's back.

Jay only heard the word "over," and then he felt Jacks hand gently rubbing his back. Jay pushed himself up, and fell into Jacks waiting arms making sure his backside did not touch anything. "M'sorry," Jay mumbled into Jacks neck when he was able to speak again. "You think Billy is in trouble?" Jay asked once he got his hiccups under control.

"Yes," Jack said, simply.

"Oh," Jay said as he laid his head back down on Jack's shoulder. Jay took a deep breath, breathing in Jack's manly smell. Jack gently rubbed his lower back. Jay smelled a faint hint of Ben-Gay of Jack’s shirt. "Umm Jack I think you need to take a shower, you smell like old people."

"Cheeky Brat," Jack stood up, lifting Jay with him. They headed towards the bathroom. "You're slightly fragrant yourself. Share a shower?" he asked.

Once they both got into the shower, Jay tried to adjust the water so it would be a little hotter, but got his hand slapped away.

Jack liked the water hot, but nowhere as hot as Jay, so he took control of the temperature.

Jay gave Jack a frustrated look, and grabbed the soap to started to washing Jack’s chest. "So care to finish what I started at the bar?" Jay asked as his hand slid down Jacks body.

"Yes."

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

“You are in so much trouble little girl!”

DJ shivered at the cold air on her bare bottom, and let out a yelp as her father’s big had landed hard right on her sit spot.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

"What? Cake before dinner," Mason feigned outrage. He began to cut into the warm cake; it crumbled into the bowl loosing its shape. "Ice cream and chocolate sauce?" Mason asked.

Billy closed his mouth, after it had opened in shock. Mason never allowed chocolate cake before dinner. "Both, please," he replied.

He had the cake safely in his hand when he looked up at Mason, a slow smile spread across his face. "You're getting soft in your old age," he teased.

"Bite your tongue," Mason said. He stood behind Billy, and pulled his husband against him, taking a nip at Billy's ear. "I'll never go soft with you around."

"I do still expect you to eat some dinner, Monkey, and then it's an early bedtime."

Billy leant back against Mason's broad chest and sighed. "Safe," was all he said. "Are we having onion gravy with the sausages?" Sausage and mash were a real comfort food for Billy.

After dinner Mason cleared the dishes from the table. "Baby, go take a shower and get ready for bed, while I clean up from dinner."

Billy took his time in the shower. He wasn't looking forward to the bedtime spanking, but finally he got out and dried off. He stepped into his pajama pants, which were the only concession he made to the increasingly colder weather, and padded through to the bedroom.

Mason retrieved the new wooden spoon and went upstairs to the bedroom. He sat down on he and Billy’s bed and waited for his Brat to get out of the shower. He held his arms open to Billy when he entered from the bathroom. Billy quickly cuddled into his husband. "So my love, I think we've got a spanking to take care of," Mason said as he ran his fingers through Billy's soft blonde hair. "I think we already talked a lot about this, but I want to make sure that you understand why you're being punished, and what my expectations are for any future dealings you have with your parents. So please, do tell."

"I'm getting spanked for pulling that prank on my parents, when you told me not too. I disrespected our relationship," Billy's voice trembled; he'd hoped he'd never see that wooden spoon again. "If I have any future dealings with my parents, and that's a huge if, I have to be respectful. No more revenge for my shitty upbringing." Billy stopped and thought, “And for getting Jay into trouble with Jack. I hate this," he said, cuddling into Mason's chest.

"I know sweetheart." Mason kissed the top of Billy's head. "We'll be done in a few minutes." Mason helped Billy to turn over, so he was now ass up over his lap. He lowered the sleep pants, and applied a firm swat to the curve of his Brat's butt cheek. Billy's cheek bounced from the impact. Billy clenched his cheeks tightly in response to the first strike, and Mason looked down at the pink impression of his hand covering the soft white bottom. He raised his hand and applied the second swat to the opposite cheek, and then picked up a steady rhythm.

Billy was emotionally spent, and started crying early in the spanking. Mason ended the hand spanking and picked up the wooden spoon. He applied it once to each cheek. The spanking was tame in terms of a Mason Monroe punishment. "Okay my Monkey, that was your taste of the cherry wood. I'm throwing it away now, because I don't expect to ever have to spank you again for playing a prank on your parents. Okay?

Billy answered affirmatively through his tears.

"I love you Billy Fleming-Monroe."

"I love you Mason," Billy’s said, through his tears. He knew the spanking had been tame, but it had still hurt, and he knew he'd feel the burn, tomorrow at work. "Why throw that thing away?" Billy asked eyeing the spoon, with malice. "Burning it is a much better idea."

"If you promise me there will be no more pranks on your parents, you may burn the spoon," Mason said.

Billy's eye's lit up with glee.

"Only under my supervision," Mason quickly added.

"I see a big bonfire," Billy said, a wicked twinkle in his eyes. "And a full ritual burning of the spoon." He looked at Mason. "Maybe I could start the bonfire with the paddle."

"Not the paddle. It still has an important roll to play in our relationship,"
Mason said. He planted a kiss on the sour face Billy was giving him. "I'm envisioning a nice ritual burning of the spoon in the fire pit in the garden, possibly followed by a refresher lesson on the use of fire extinguishers."

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

“Hey Jack, it's Billy, is Jay there,” Billy had waited until 1:00 p.m. to phone his co-conspirator knowing that as it was Wednesday, Jay would be working from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the post office. “Hey Jay,” Billy said, “I hope you didn't get it too hot last night. I can tell you, Mace wasn't happy and I spent most of the night over his lap. Do you want to come to a ritual burning of a wooden spoon?”

The End.