Chapter Text
Running his fingers through Three' soft blond hair, Vessel got lost in his thoughts. Their band was developing well, some people recognizing them after releasing Sundowning and the small halls were filling in. The only problem was their guitarist. Always running late or not showing up at all for their rehearsals. They were good friends, but it was obvious that juggling two bands at once and a full-time job wouldn't be ideal for anybody.
“Not that I'm complaining, but you got quiet on me again. Did I really do so good I rendered you speechless?” Three smirked, grabbing the wrist currently tangled in his way-too-long hair. He should cut it soon. Or at least dye it.
“That's exactly what you just did. Complain I mean.” The smirk was evident in his voice. He grabbed a fistful of his hair and pulled.
“Dickhead!”
“Oh, come on, you love it.”
Three pouted at first, but gave in and nodded. He closed his eyes again, letting those long fingers soothe him. It's nice.
Vessel bit his lower lip, thinking. “You know, Fore might actually resign this time.”
The other band is doing better and the studio in London was way too far for him. He would probably get more successful that way, Vessel thought.
“Yeah well, he mentioned that multiple times. Also, some of his equipment already disappeared so I'm actually just waiting for him to drop the news.” Three yawned and stretched.
“Do you think it would be easier on him if we suggested it first? Or would that feel like we are kicking him out? God, I don't know, I've been stressing over this for the past few weeks and it's not getting any better. The fuck do we do?” Vessel's forehead visibly creased, the worry evident on his face.
He thought about how to approach the topic without offending the other man. He is sure that they will still stay friends, but so many people already left his life disappointed, angry at him. For never being enough and feeling like a burden more often than not. What if they don't have to separate? What if they find a studio a bit closer to where Fore lived-
Three grabbed his hand and put it on his naked chest. A simple squeeze should bring the other man back from his spiralling thoughts. “Stop that! No hating yourself, I can see what you're doing.” Vessel smiled at him. They've known each other for a long time now to know what helps the other feel better.
“I've talked to Fore about this more than once. Don't worry love, he is figuring it out. We could meet tonight to just get it over with. The sooner we look for someone new, the better.”
Vessel nodded. They are on a break now. Not quite a break, more like not having many gigs, and them needing to travel too far. And as grown adults with full-time jobs, it's not that easy to do that often. They should be able to find someone good enough to cover at least a few songs when their next gig comes. Which is in two months.
“Thanks. Let's go for a beer, play some darts or something. Just don't hit anyone please. Or they will kick us out for sure this time.” The frown and pout were worth it. “I'll call Two, see if he wants to come too.”
They met up at their local pub, closest to their studio. It's small enough that they basically know everybody who comes there. Good for watching football matches and spending nights with friends. They told Two the not quite news over the phone, since he was spending his evening with Andy. He agreed with everything - he was also just waiting for that to happen. He and his partner already called a few people asking for a replacement. No luck so far.
Fore took it well. It surprised them both that he was even more nervous about bringing that topic up and also felt a bit like an idiot trying to sneak out his equipment without them noticing. They talked for a long time, just enjoying the night drinking and discussing music and such. The boys made sure to stay in touch, to stay friends and keep hanging out. There is no bad blood between them, which made Vessel feel much better about the whole situation. There is no need for more negative thoughts. Fore also gave them a list of people who might know someone who could cover for him, since he knew he would be leaving. They went through the list together, leaving them with absolutely no one in the end.
***
A week went by without anything interesting happening. Three kept coming around, just to bother Vessel or have a good time. They were playing some video games and eating some take out when Two messaged them. He was coming over, apparently with some great news.
There was a knock on the door. No one stood up, since they knew it was Two, who had a key. All of them do - Vessel's flat is the closest to the studio hence making his place visited the most out of all of them. Three's flat is too small even for him anyways, looking more like a shoebox - barely fitting a bed big enough for his tall frame. And Two lives with his partner.
“Great news. I might have a guy who can play with us!” Two yelled from the doorway, unlacing his shoes. “He moved here about a year ago, he is a guitar player for hire besides his everyday job at a music shop or something. Apparently, he also came to see us a few times in the past. How awesome is that?” He sat down next to the two giants and grabbed something to eat, stuffing his face immediately.
Three perked up, talking with a mouth full of food. “Holy shit yes, who is this guy? I thought we went through everybody we know.”
“Greg actually got us the contact, he didn't say much, just that he is skilled and can play an eight-string. Not sure what guitars he has with him though.”
“I have no problem lending him one, we've always done that anyway.” Vessel said, deep in thought. “Do you think he would be interested though? We don't get paid much, and our next gig is in less than two months…”
“Stop worrying Vess. Greg said he learns fast, but we will have to see for ourselves. Him being interested in our music already helps the situation even more.” Two seemed to be quite sure about this new guy. And Three literally vibrating in his seat made Vessel agree to scheduling a meeting with the stranger.
“I already texted him; he told me what I told you. He definitely wants to meet all of us and soon. Preferably this weekend. So, you two better clear out your not so busy schedules.”
“I'm good, my hook up cancelled on me this Saturday and Vessel would be holed up in the studio anyways.” Three shrugged, not bothering to give any more information about his date.
Vessel pouted. “I thought you had me, now I'm hurt.”
Three leaned towards him, pecking his cheek. “Yes I do, you know that. You are my favourite, and you know that too.” He took another bite. “It's just a classmate from high school. Promised me a good time. He can go fuck himself now.” He laughed, not getting offended whatsoever. Their loss.
“Okay then, I will schedule the meeting this Saturday. Be sure to be there in the afternoon, I will text you the specifics.”
They continued to chat and eat for a while. The rest of the evening was spend catching up on Shameless and video games. No one managed to beat Vessel in Halo so far.
***
Vessel was late. His boss made him make some changes at the last minute and he had to bring it back to his office. What a pain in the ass. He was out of breath and his hair a floppy mess when he barged into the studio.
“Shit, fuck, sorry I'm late. That idiot made me do some extra stuff again…” He wheezed, leaning onto the doorway, wiping his sweaty forehead. A laughter could be heard around the corner. Two came to greet him and took some of his bags.
“No worries, we showed him around and talked a little. He seems cool and Three took a liking to him immediately.”
“Doesn't he do that with everybody? Just don't let him seduce the new guy, we don't want to fuck things up so soon.” Vessel whispered the second part, leaning down so Two can hear him.
Two just smirked and nodded. “Mentioned that. Got offended. I mean, we know how he is, but I think we can trust him. They do seem to have hit it off, like for real Vess.” Two looked genuinely happy about the situation so far. Making their way in, they greeted the others. The new guy had his back towards them, listening to excited Three talking more with his arms than anything else. When he spotted Vessel, he took a deep breath before introducing the newcomer.
“There you are! This is Ivy, our new guitarist. I already hired him so don't even try to argue with me. I want him here.” Three spun him around and placed his arms on his shoulders as if they knew each other for years. He pointed a warning finger at Vessel, who was already looking at the newest face in the room. But all he could do was gasp quietly, mouth slightly open.
Pretty. That's the only thing that went through Vessel's brain. On repeat. He is so pretty. Droopy blue eyes, fluffy brown hair sticking out as if someone messed it up on purpose. A genuine wide smile making his face shine even more. Vessel had to look a bit down, since he is about a head taller than him. Three let him go and Ivy stretched out his arm to offer a handshake.
“It's nice to finally meet you! I'm IV, or Ivy. That nickname just stuck after a while.”
His eyes are so kind and honest. And blue. He seems so excited to even be here today. Why is he so pretty though. That small beauty mark on top of his left cheek is so distracting-
Two cleared his throat and bumped into him slightly. Vessel's eyes widened, a dust of pink covering his face. He grasped Ivy's hand in greetings. “Hi. Hi! It's so nice to meet you. I'm Vessel.”
Ivy nodded, amused. “So I've heard.” He looked around a bit, crossing his arms.
“Three and Two already showed me around a bit, but I would like to talk to you too. You are the founder after all…?”
Vessel just nodded, lost in his thoughts again. Three giggled, clapped his hands and exclaimed: “Well, me and Two are gonna do our stuff, you guys talk, yeah?” he grabbed the shorter man to let them have their moment.
Vessel awkwardly put his hands behind his back and shuffled towards his keyboard where he sat down. Ivy followed, perching on a windowsill.
“Well, the whole band thing was my and Two's idea. Three has been here the whole time too, we know each other almost as long. Our guitarist seems to change quite a bit though.”
“Yeah, Two mentioned that it's quite unstable. I'm fine with whatever you have me do honestly, I've been to some of your gigs, you guys are awesome.” Vessel played a slow tune, just to have something to do with his hands. And to not have to look at Ivy all the time, it made him anxious.
Vessel smiled, shy. He could never take compliments well. “Thank you. Ehm…” He cleared his throat. “I do all the guitar parts in all of our songs, so I can teach you whatever you need. I will also provide you with the songs we play every ritual, so you can learn the most important ones. I've heard you can play an eight-string...?”
“Absolutely! I've worked as a guitar tech for a while too, so I should be able to do that if needed. I can work around equipment quite well.”
They chatted quite a bit. About their studies, passion for music. Ivy basically interviewed Vessel about his guitar skills, his ideas and thought process. Vessel didn't complain, it's his favourite topic to talk about. He got into quite a long monologue during which they both moved towards the seating area in the corner of the studio. They didn't even notice that Two and Three had left.
When they came back with food and some drinks, the two had guitars in their laps, working on some of their newest songs.
The group spent their evening jamming, getting to know each other and filling their stomach with warm food. Ivy seemed to fit well into the group so far. Two and Three giving each other knowing looks from time to time, since Vessel's gaze never left Ivy's.
***
Those two months flew by so fast. Vessel was stressing out, as usual. Two thinking of how to improve his already perfect performance and Three just having a good time. Ivy fit perfectly with them. He was always punctual, bringing some sweets or at least coffee with him every day. He grasped the atmosphere of their band just right, having absolutely no problem playing any of their songs. He was groovy, swaying his hips and singing along. Three was right, if everything goes well and Ivy wants to stay, he stays.
They were in the middle of their last session. They have a gig tomorrow, but they feel as ready as one can be. Andy was there too, just hanging out and doing her thing. She and Ivy got on well too.
Vessel sang the last few notes, taking his time breathing and calming down. Everyone understands the need to come back from the emotional state music puts you through. It's especially strong with Vessel, for obvious reasons. They sometimes have to physically calm him down when the times are rough, but these past few weeks seemed to be really good for him. He was smiling through most of their sessions.
“That was very good everybody.” Two sipped on his energy drink, praising them for their efforts. They've discussed changing some of the songs for the older ones, but since their setlist is shorter this time, they should keep the most popular songs just to make sure.
Vessel kept sitting behind his keyboard, humming quietly and playing some notes. Deep in thought, he didn't pay much attention what went around him, and everyone let him. Two on the other hand, cleaned up everything after himself, left everything in a perfect condition and sat down next to Andy, holding her hand. Ivy, shrugging his guitar off, glanced at Vessel with a curious look in his eyes. He finds him mesmerising whenever the singer gets deep in thought and just creates. Ivy sat down on the sofa, joining the others and turning his attention to the soft melody that was played. He kept watching Vessel's back, waiting if anything happens.
It was just Three that happened, eventually. After putting everything in place, he stretched his long limbs and draped himself over Vessel's back, curling around him. The squeeze was welcome, making Vessel smile widely. He tilted his head up, resting it against Three's chest. A hand grasped his jaw tenderly, holding him in place. The following kiss was slow, soft. A comfort of sorts. Both of them hummed, happy and content. The kiss got deeper for a few moments, tongues running over opened lips and against each other, breathing in the other's presence.
“Your place?” Three asked after a while.
“Of course.”
They kept hugging for a bit after. Ivy's expression turned surprised. Not in an unpleasant way. He glanced at Two and Andy, who kept talking about some birthday party for their twin nephews.
“So, what's their deal? I don't wanna ask them directly, that would seem nosy. I just don't want to assume and say something out of place…” Ivy asked, interrupting their conversation. Two just laughed, shaking his head.
“Nah, you wouldn't trust me. They are very casual about it, definitely not dating. They would kill each other if they did.” Both of them laughed a bit at that, it's probably true. “I'm sure they would tell you if you asked. Three doesn't date, for one, he wouldn't say more about that – hates labelling shit. He is also one horny bastard. And Vessel is like a cat – warmth and comfort are something he seeks out. They don't really share much with me though, I just know they are definitely just friends who fuck a lot. I try not to ask.” Two shrugged, sitting closer to his girlfriend.
Ivy let it sink in, watching the two a bit closer. The touches are loving for sure, but if Two and Vessel know each other the longest, he thought he could trust the drummer with this info. Not that it affected him in any way. They can do whatever they wanted. He just didn't want to say something that might get him any disapproving looks. The guys were fun to be around, he definitely wanted to stay for as long as he could.
His thoughts got interrupted when someone grabbed his shoulder.
“Wanna come with us? I have a car here, we can drop you off at home.” Two offered, unbothered by the sweet sight in front of them. Andy was already huddled in a warm jacket and browsing something on her phone, ready to leave.
Ivy dropped his gaze, shrugging. “Yeah, why not. Thanks.” Collecting the few things he brought with him and putting on his jacket and beanie, he turned to say goodbye to the rest of them.
“Don't stay up too long, tomorrow has to be perfect!” Two pairs of eyes looked up, grinning.
“Can't promise anything!” Three exclaimed cheekily, grabbing Vessel's face and squeezing his cheeks. The singer just flipped him off.
“Don't be late. The body paint takes some time to put on. Have a goodnight Ivy.” Vessel said after freeing himself from the grasp. He watched as all three of them left, the guitarist giving them a sweet little wave.
Vessel smiled, finding him all cosy and soft in the beanie. He just wanted to squeeze him.
“You can do that you know?”
“Huh?” Vess startled, looking up at the other man. Three was looking down at him, full of adoration. He didn't realise he said that out loud.
Tapping his long fingers on Vessel's chin, he shrugged. “Ivy basically lives off of physical touch. He is worse than you even, I'm surprised you haven't noticed.”
“And how the fuck would you know that?” he asked, absolutely confused about the news. Good news, but how does he know that?
“We've been hanging out every week. Hasn't he told you?”
“Well... it's not something you just casually say during practice.” Vessel stood up, about to grab his bag and a coat. “I'm awkward enough as it is. Not gonna ask him if he likes to cuddle while teaching him guitar riffs.” The last part got muffled by the scarf he put around his neck. Not able to find the fluffy end, Three stepped up to him, helping him out.
Smoothing down the worn-out fabric, Three patted down his messy hair as well. “You're telling me you haven't been talking about anything else than music?”
“Well, sometimes, when we all stay here after.” He grabbed the other's hand, locking the door behind them. His flat was about five-minute walk from there. “I'm also not going to just hug him out of nowhere, I don't know him that well.”
Their fingers interlaced automatically. Three warmed them up by hiding them in his right pocket. Vessel loved the simple gestures of affection. Most people felt like you needed to be in a specific relationship phase to be able to do that. He was happy for Three being in his life. And Two as well, of course.
They walked for a while in a comfortable silence. Until Three couldn't keep his curiosity down anymore.
“Are you telling me that the two of you never hung out outside of practice?” Three asked, pulling out his vape and inhaling.
Vessel watched the smoke come out from between his parted lips, smelling like mint. “Not exactly, no.” He rubbed the loose stitching on the bottom of his coat. He would need to buy a new one for next season.
“I thought you liked him? He is really fun to be around you know?”
“I mean yeah, I do like him. He is a great person.” He agreed, rounding the corner and taking out his keys.
“So, what are you gonna do about it? I found out some things about him if you wanna set it up…?”
That stopped Vessel in his tracks. Set what up? “What are you on about now?”
Three waited until they got into the lift to answer. “The date? Or at least some not so obvious time alone with him. I mean, he didn't explicitly tell me he is interested, but everyone is a little gay-“
“What the fuck Three?” To occupy his hands and not hit Three for suggesting that, he took his vape and put it back in Three's inner pocket.
“What? It's so obvious to us you want to. You know I'm all in!”
Vessel just shook his head. Unbelievable. How many people did he talk about this? And what the fuck did he say to Ivy?
“I don't like him like that, you idiot. You know I don't date anymore…”
They made their way inside. The flat smelled of clean laundry and a bit of dust. It was a small flat with one bedroom, kitchen and living room divided by a fake thin wall. Three made his way to the tiny kitchen immediately, looking for something to drink.
“You don't date because you're scared. Not because you don't want to.” Before he was interrupted, he lifted a hand to stop him. “And don't argue with me. Me and Two both think that, so you are outnumbered.” He looked around. “And give me something to drink, I'm parched.”
“The tap works, you know.” Taking out two glasses, he handed one to the other man.
After a bit of bickering of who likes who, and Three promising he didn't say anything to Ivy about this, they sat down in the living room.
“Also, he doesn't know about us, unless Two mentioned something. Means that we might have to tell him before the tour starts. If you hump me again during Sugar I don't want him to run off, screaming” Three turned his whole body towards Vessel, putting his long legs in his lap, making himself comfortable.
Fluffing up one cushion to put behind his head, Vessel nodded. “Good idea.” Rubbing and squeezing Three's legs absentmindedly, he continued. “He didn't seem bothered today when we snogged right in front of him, so… he might be cool with it.”
Three scooted closer and ran his hand down Vessel's arm. “Speaking of snogging, I'm pretty sure I was promised some more today.”
Vessel hummed, a small smile forming on his lips. “That you were.”
They've done this so many times, it feels natural now. Their lips met, soft and unhurried. Vessel hummed, him being more vocal out of the two of them. Three was more chatty. Caressing each other's bodies, angling closer until they were as close as possible. Three leaned all the way back, resting against the sofa cushion, sitting comfortably. He pulled the singer on top of him, his warm palms brushing along his knees, making their way up. Vessel straddled his thighs and wrapped his arms around Three's shoulders. Making himself comfortable on such an inviting lap, his hips pushed forward.
“There you go.” Three mumbled between kisses. He gripped his chin, running his thumb on those heart-shaped lips he liked to bite until they were red. And bloody, sometimes.
Vessel's mouth got forcefully opened, sticking out his tongue and wetting the pad of his finger. Three growled, smashing their mouths together, tongues entangling. Licking all over, swiping the palate and moaning happily. Vessel grabbed his hair, pulling a bit. Three loved that. In exchange, the bassist ran his hands under Vessel's hoodie, groping anything he came in contact with. They humped and moved against each other, took turns kissing and biting each other's necks, jaws and lips. Until they were both panting and obviously turned on.
Pulling away slightly, a string of spit between them, Vessel leaned their foreheads together. “Let me suck you off, come on.” He breathed. Three just nodded. There is no way he is saying no to that.
Pushing him down on his knees, Vessel nudged himself between Three's legs and immediately went for the buttons. They fumbled with the jeans a little, sliding them off. A surprised hum and a smile made its way onto Vessel's face.
“Quite basic for you, no?”
Three just smirked, shrugging. “Wasn't sure if you'd be up for it today. Wouldn't wear my fancy underwear if there is no one to appreciate it.”
“Next time then.”
Not wasting any more time, Vessel dived in and tongued, kissed and nuzzled all over the still covered cock. Until it was all wet with his spit. Three just leaned back, letting out pleased hums. Only when those hips raised, searching for more friction, did Vessel take a pity on him and pulled him out. He ran his tongue all the way up, suckling on the head. All wet and sticky with pre-cum already. A lot of teasing, sucking and humming followed – refusing to push all the way down yet. Three let out a frustrated growl, putting his hands on Vessel's nape and squeezing. Swirling his tongue around the head one more time, he popped of and let a dribble of saliva drip down. The tip was wet, glistening with spit. Vessel bit his lower lip, enjoying the view. He took pity on him quickly, spreading the slick all over and pumping the length lazily.
“Fuck, you're perfect. So good for me.” The whispered praise encouraging him further.
Taking a few deep breaths, he sank all the way down, slowly. Enjoying the weight on his tongue, the stretch of his lips. Vessel's eyes rolled back, moaning loudly. Three's whole body went rigid, brows furrowing and cursing. The singer enjoyed every minute of it. Moving his head up and down, eyes closed, tempo never faltering. The tip bumping the back of his throat with every move, Vessel's moans got louder.
Feeling his own cock straining in his sweatpants, he let out a pleased hum and popped off. Vessel grabbed Three's wrist and tangled it in his hair. Taking a deep breath in, he slid down all the way down again, keeping his cock warm and snug in his throat. Vessel then look into the bassist's eyes, nodding slightly.
Three, never breaking eye contact, gave a faint nod. He laid his other arm on the cushion under him, braced his feet flat on the floor, getting ready.
“Such a good boy for me.” Before Vessel could react however, Three set a punishing pace. His hips ramming in and out of Vessel's throat, not giving him a chance to breathe properly. Vessel gagged, moaned and teared up through it all. His eyes rolled back, snot and tears running down his face in no time. Somewhere in between, he managed to push down his own sweatpants and boxers, jerking off roughly.
After sucking and tightening his throat as much as he could, Three pulled him off for a few seconds, letting him catch his breath. “What a beautiful sight you make.” Three panted, running his fingers through the mess on his face. Vessel just sighed happily, smiling through it all.
“I'm putting an eyeliner on you next time, gorgeous.” Before he could get an answer however, Three pushed him back down and started abusing his mouth and throat again. Slobbering all over his lap, in time their moans got louder and more desperate.
When Vessel's ragged whimpers turned into sobbing, Three knew they were both close. “Cum for me sweetheart. Let me hear you.”
Pleasure rolled through their whole bodies, leaving them both a shuddering puddle of mess. Vessel leaned his whole weight on Three's thighs, gasping for air and swallowing everything he received.
After they calmed down from the high a bit, Three pulled Vessel into his embrace fully. Nudging his head against his chest, he ran his fingers through the singer's hair, just breathing him in. He nuzzled his hair and kissed his forehead. Vessel smiled, humming happily.
“Hmm… That was nice.”
“Nice he says. You looked like you were gonna pass out on me at one point.”
Vessel let out a rough giggle, clearing his throat after. “That's how you know it's good.” He snuggled a bit closer, enjoying the warmth and post orgasmic high. Three let him indulge for a few minutes.
Later, he lifted Vessel's head, pecking his lips a few times. “Let's shower and sleep. I wanna snuggle and pass out.”
“Yeah, yeah.”