Chapter Text
The next few days were rather calm, for which he was thankful. Gavin was able to work on the jacket and a selection of special ties that would go well with the whole collection. It kept his mind off the strange encounter with Nines and how strange he felt after being close to the man.
And Nines avoided his floor and him, too.
Having figured it was because of how awkward it was, especially after they were seen by Josh in such a compromising position. Just thinking about it now made him chuckle at how ridiculous it was before he recalled the weight of Nines' body pressing him down, making his heart race, the blue eyes staring into his own, almost as if the man was staring into his very soul. And the heat of his skin even through his clothes.
“Fuck.” Pricking his finger he glared at his own hand and stuck the finger into his mouth. “Should have worn a thimble...” But the jacket was nearly done.
Josh never mentioned the incident again, probably because he had been too excited for his date with the Alpha doctor. When Gavin managed to adjust a deep lavender jacket to his body he nearly cried, promising to take the utmost care of it and return it after having it dry-cleaned, but Gavin just waved a hand. Keep it. It only fits you now, anyway. And you'll get more use out of it than anyone else would.
And it he had to reassure the young man several times that he meant it, even when he was on his way to the date.
The next day he nearly floated in on Cloud 9, gushing about the perfect man and how they already planned another date. It was truly delightful to listen to him recap the whole date with such joy, gushing over Aaron and every detail. His face was so red when he briefly described the innocent kiss at the end of the date, not elaborating more on that. And Gavin didn't pressure him, either.
At least with Josh distracted he was able to focus on working and filling his head with loud music. This relaxed him and distracted him from dealing with other issues. Working on that old machine to get the seams just right he kept smiling more and more. Yes, he would have this done by tonight. Maybe he would stay at the office longer to make sure it was perfect, though the finishing touch would have to be done on the model himself.
Four days were enough to get over such an incident, right?
For a moment he stood up and stretched, his t-shirt riding up again. He went back to his usual style of jeans and t-shirts, the kilt retired from his wardrobe for the moment. While it had the effect he desired, the end of that day was a small disaster.
Stepping out of his private office he saw Josh conducting another interview. This time with an older lady with a most dignified air about her and a well-fitting pant-suit. Lovely work on the colour combination and accents. Gavin was listening in as he headed to the new coffee machine to make another one, sneaking glances at them and nodding as she answered Josh's questions without any hesitation.
Oh, he liked her. Giving the man a thumbs up and a huge nod to signal he wanted her hired, Gavin quickly retreated into his office before she could see him. This made the third person he approved of. A younger woman who had stellar work ethic and ideas, a middle-aged man who has worked with big fashion houses in France before moving to the States, and now this lady.
And all of them were married or taken. Wonderful. This meant no trouble for his department at all. If Josh ended up meeting his fated lover when he met the doctor, that would only leave him. But Gavin had his medicine and needed nobody and nothing.
He unlocked the drawer and took out a small pill, using the hot coffee to down it.
Fuck Connor and his opinions. He had no idea what it was like.
But the last thing he wanted to do was to think about that asshole. Focusing on the jacket he hand-stitched the last seam the way he liked it, the way no machine could ever do, and placed it onto the mannequin.
“How am I so fucking good?” Patting himself on the shoulder he went to a small box and took out one of his personal labels. This could go on later, but for now he had to make sure it fit this model.
Grabbing a black cloth cover he put the jacket on a hanger, then slid the cover over it and took his phone. Stepping out of the office he saw the woman look at him this time, just as Josh was wrapping up the interview.
“Hey, I gotta run up to see Nines and make sure this fits. You're in charge. Oh, hi. And bye.” Gavin flashed a quick smile before he made for the elevators, aware of the stares.
“That man was Gavin Reed, wasn't he?” She didn't even sound surprised.
“Yes, the head designer and leader of this department.” Josh sounded proud as Gavin repeatedly pressed the elevator button.
“I like his style. Reminds me of my oldest son. Oh, don't worry, I wouldn't dare talk about Mr. Reed outside of work. I am merely glad someone can remain true to their self like this. I had a hard time with it myself.” And Gavin heard no more as the two began to chat and he finally escaped into the metal box.
He still hated that damn elevator music, so he put his headphones on and listened to music instead, tapping his foot as he waited for it to get Nines's floor. Happily stepping out he made his way to the secretary, tempted to just waltz right in as he normally would. Hell, why not?
About to do just that he jumped when someone touched his shoulder. Whipping around he came face to face with his least favourite Alpha and instantly glared at him. “Don't fucking touch me! What do you want?”
Connor just rolled his eyes. “I called your name a few times, but you didn't reply at all. I had to get your attention somehow.” He seemed unfazed by the designer's outburst, though the secretary looked shocked. Nobody ever spoke to the Andersons like that. They would not dare. But this man stared him right in the eye and seemed downright annoyed to have Connor talk to him!
“Now you have it. What the hell do you want? Because unless it has to do with the collection, I want nothing to do with you.” Just looking at him made Gavin feel angry, even though many would claim he looked like Nines.
No fucking way.
Nines's eyes were a calm blue that could get really bright when he was annoyed. Like when they first met. His jawline was also perfectly cut and his cheekbones higher, his nose more regal. And after the little incident he also knew his hair was a shade lighter than Connor's and looked softer. Longer, too, with a few curls that always seemed to fall into his forehead and mess with his perfect look. And Nines had small freckles on his cheeks and over the bridge of his nose, barely noticeable, but Gavin knew.
He paid a lot of attention to the man when selecting colours for the jacket to match him and nobody else. There was no other reason why he would notice those details.
“I just wanted to ask you if you are feeling alright. You seem agitated. Maybe because-”
“Because a cocky asshole is trying to get involved in something that is none of his damn business. Of course I am agitated.” He pulled the covered jacket away and stepped back. “If that's all, I actually have work to do. And that has nothing to do with you because my department falls under Nines, not you.”
“You know what I am talking about, Gavin. A stronger dose will only work for so long before you will get used to it and need even more. What then? You can't continue like this.” If he didn't know better he would think the man was genuinely concerned about him.
“Watch me. I can and will do whatever the fuck I want with my own body. I will never listen to an Alpha like you.” Gavin hissed, just loudly enough for the man to hear, then walked past him and without bothering to knock entered Nines's office.
Thankfully, there was nobody other than him around. Not even Nines was there...
“Asshole...” Gavin muttered, closing the door and walked up to the man's desk. His phone was on it, the computer was on, all screens full of some shit he didn't care about. An unfinished cup of coffee sat on a coaster neatly to the side. In fact, everything on the big desk seemed to have a place. Without thinking he pushed the mug an inch to the left, then shifted a few papers around.
But where was Nines?
“Creepy to be here like this... the hell is he?” Looking around he took in the dark style of the office, everything so elegant and neat it was almost too perfect. Last time he didn't get to pay attention to it too much, so might as well make up for the lost time. The furniture matched he walls perfect, he had to admit. But the couch looked much more comfortable than the one in his office. Such a demure tone seemed to linger around it made him wonder if Nines's home looked like this. Depressing.
“Is anyone there?” He recognized the man's voice coming through a nearby open door and followed it, entering what seemed to be a conference room. Of course he would have his own.
“Yo, it's me. I think I am finished with the jacket, just need one last fitting to make sure. And holy shit, you really don't waste time, do you?”
The long table was full of notes and pictures, everything somehow connected and showing off each piece of the underwear collection. There were pins on boards that highlighted Lifewear's previous campaigns and those also had notes scribbled over them or pinned to them. Nines was leaning over the table, writing something down again before sliding the small paper to the pair of briefs with a lace side-panelling.
“I am not fond of wasting time, especially not with the deadline getting closer. So I figured that once this is done, I can focus on the jacket itself.” Nines finally looked at him, that cocky smirk back in place. Gavin laughed and looked at another note the man written, nodding his head.
“Damn, looks good. I take it you are almost ready then? I hope you picked some models with normal body hair, too. Kinda sick of shiny skin everywhere. That's not how it works. Anyway, feel like trying the jacket on?” He walked around the table to look at the different designs and what notes the man made on them. “Hm, not bad. For these maybe add some heavy rings on the model, or leather bracelets. Show the contrast between lace and leather even more. I mean, that's why I'm wearing these.”
He held up his wrist where he had several leather bracelets, some braided, some with beads. He rarely wore much jewellery, but if he did, he always went big.
“What? You mean you're wearing some?” Nines's eyes got wide and Gavin just shrugged.
“Sure. Figured I would try and see how the wear is. Nobody wants to deal with scratchy lace all day. So far, I am definitely a fan.” He used the back of a chair for the hanger, then unzipped the cover and tossed it aside. Removing the finished jacket he was more than pleased with the looks.
Elegant, but modern, more styled to fit a man in the office as well as a man on a date or just one who wanted to add something more to an outfit. “I figured that a more luxurious lining on the inside would be a nice secret. Especially if we use darker shades. I already picked matching shades, but custom orders will be possible. Well? What are you waiting for?” Holding the jacket out he nodded. “Try it on. It will only fit you, after all.”
“Do you also expect me to model it?” Nines tried to make a joke, but Gavin didn't laugh. “Oh, come on, you cannot be serious and expect me to-”
“Nines, I tailored it to fit only one person. You. It would not look great on anyone else. Surely you realized the consequences of agreeing to model for me?” Gavin watched the man shrug the jacket on and indeed, it fit like a glove.
He walked around Nines, testing the fit, tugging and pulling on certain parts, but they were perfectly in place. The sleeves were the exact length for Nines's arms, the collar snug around his neck, the shawl lapel perfect for the sleek silhouette. He wanted something different. And the accents of blue brought out his eyes even more. Not that it was the real reason for adding them, just figured it would be a nice touch.
“Perfect... yes, I knew I was a fucking fashion mastermind, but this is one of my favourite pieces to date. Hm, we can offer different lapel styles and cufflinks to go with any custom order, but this style...” Gavin stepped away and stared at the man for longer than was strictly necessary.
“One day I will probably make your wedding suit. And you know it will be perfect.” he bragged.
“I don't plan on ever getting married.” Nines rolled his eyes, walking to a nearby mirror to see how the jacket fit for himself. And indeed, it was made just for him. “I will have to figure out how to advertise this. You gave me more work.”
“As if it wasn't obvious from the start. But why no marriage? I'm sure you can find some nice Alpha woman or whatever and go on to create a legacy of more Alphas to continue the family name. Or whatever subgender strikes your fancy.” He never cared for those division anyway.
“As much as I know it would please my father to do exactly what you have described, I have no desire to marry anyone, Alpha or no Alpha, man or woman. It's too much work. Besides, you have seen how strongly affected I can get. Why would I want to inflict that on anyone? In fact, I am surprised you can be around me.” Nines kept inspecting his reflection, trying his best to find a flaw in the design and failing.
“Someone has to stand up to you and keep pissing you off. I will gladly help with that. But... I kinda have to agree with you. Marriage and procreating are overrated. Especially the latter.” Scoffing he looked at the briefs campaign the man had on the long table. Not bad. But he did write down to add heavy jewellery to the model.
“I am surprised. I figured someone like you would enjoy having his own family.” Most sub-genders wanted that, even if maybe not with an Alpha.
“I have a family. My mum and dad are still alive and my brother and his wife was probably working on adding to the family. Which is not something I want to think about. Nah, I keep myself busy all the time and wouldn't have time for a family anyway. Even a husband would be too much to deal with. I like working late at night and doing whatever the fuck I want.” Gavin didn't even notice the reveal he made.
“I see.” Nines buttoned the jacket up, then patted his pocket. “Shit, my phone is in the office. I want a photo of myself wearing this. The work is impeccable and I am almost upset that I cannot find anything wrong with it.”
“Thanks, I guess? Just let me take a photo and I can send it to you.” Grabbing his own phone he guided the man to the large windows, choosing a backdrop that wouldn't show the campaign he was working on. “Just try to pose or something. I don't know.”
Reluctantly at first, Nines eventually did relax a little and managed to make a bit of a pose, letting him take a few photos. Better than taking one himself, he decided.
“There, all done. Give me your number and I will send them to you.” There was nothing strange about that. And it could be handy to have his boss's number.
“Give me your phone, I will put it in.” Ignoring the raised eyebrow he took the offered phone and typed in his number and name. “There. Send them to me when you'll have the time. That way I will also have your number. Odd that I haven't thought of getting it yet... I do have your assistant's phone.” Nines took the jacket carefully off and inspected it closely.
Every seam, every stitch, was perfect. There was nothing to even try to complain about. And he did notice some slight embroidery detail on the edge of the lapel, a winding flowery design, yet not quite. “Incredible work. I admit I am surprised. After we met I thought you were full of hot air and then some. But I admit I was wrong to judge you on appearance alone. In fact, I would almost say it makes sense now.” Carefully he hung the jacket, then zipped it into the protective cover and smiled. In his office, his phone gave a soft chime as he received a notification.
“There, sent. All right, I guess that's about it for the jacket. If you deem it finished, I can leave it here with you. I still want to finish those ties as a signature piece. Though something more bold... I wonder if I can get away with adding lace to a tie.” Chuckling he stretched his arms above his head, his t-shirt riding up just enough to expose the top of the underwear he wore. A hint of lace on the side.
“You... were not joking when you said you were wearing the underwear.” Nines's eyes were shamelessly on his body and Gavin tugged the shirt down quickly.
“Of course not. I wear everything I design at least once. Minus the custom-made dresses and items, of course. But the ties? Yea, I hate them, but I made sure they look good with a variety of styles. Same for the underwear, shirts, vests. Everything. I won't sign my name onto just anything you know. That's why I said that something considered delicate like lace would make a good contrast to heavy rings and leather cuffs. I even made a little note for you, look.” Gavin pointed at the paper under the briefs and Nines walked over, hovering just behind him.
The scent hit him again, same as when the man fell on top of him. Some sort of musk, deep and sensual, a woody scent that felt warm and comforting. And then there was this other note hidden underneath it and he wanted to smell more of it.
“Yes, I see what you mean now. Perhaps... you should model this pair yourself. Since you have the appropriate jewellery already.” Nines's voice sounded lower than usual and closer than ever and he could feel the man's body heat right behind him.
“Huh... yea.” He wasn't even listening to him now, just figured whatever he said was normal.
“You agree? Wonderful. I am quite surprised. I will make sure that no picture will show your face and nobody who is not in the know is aware of who you really are.” Nines reached over him and the scent got stronger, making him close his eyes.
When Gavin opened his eyes again he saw his name written beneath the jewellery note he made on the briefs. Only then it hit him what actually happened; what he had agreed to. And he couldn't exactly back out of this without embarrassing himself.
“Guess if you model the jacket, I can deal with this. Just let me know when and where. As long as nobody else will know I actually made those things, I'm fine with it.” In fact, it could be funny to see half his body in magazines and yet nobody being the wiser.
“I think I should get back to the design floor now. I'll catch you later. Though now you can text me if you need anything, I guess.” As Nines stepped back he walked around the table and back into the Alpha's office, then made his way to the door. He was just about to close it when he heard Nines call his name.
“Gavin! Did you mess with my desk!?”
He slammed the door and with a laugh jogged to the elevators, leaving a baffled secretary to stare after him.
---
He worked on the ties for the next two days, the new team a great help once he presented them with the patterns and what he expected. To say that some were surprised that he was Gavin Reed and the man behind the brand itself would be an understatement. One even doubted that, shocked that the man in ripped up jeans and a metal-band t-shirt that has seen better days was explaining the exact kind of stitch he wanted.
And afterwards he worked the hardest to impress his new boss.
Of course, all of them had to sign a contract not to disclose any information about Gavin, take any photos of him, or otherwise reveal who the creator of the brand was, but none of them argued. And with the new coffee machine in and breakfast catered to them, productivity was up.
Three days later, on a Friday, the collection was finally done.
The underwear, the ties, and the centrepiece of it all, the jacket, were all ready to be photographed. Then it was only a matter of days before the launch of the Greed collection for Lifewear was ready to be presented and sold.
Needless to say, Gavin brought in a few bottles of champagne and pizza for everyone on Thursday. Screw what the boss might think. This was the way to celebrate.
---
He really felt out of place among the tall models all around him and just sat back and let them do their thing.
Gavin never cared for behind the scenes of his creations, but watching it was definitely interesting. The male models were all downright perfect. Which actually annoyed him. Not everyone looked like this and it made no sense to present things for people who only looked this way.
“Yea, this isn't gonna work... gimme an hour. I want those two pieces untouched. I will find a model for them myself.” He patted Nines's shoulder, ignoring his question as he stepped out and wandered around. A different model was needed. Someone without perfectly chiselled abs, without blemish-less skin. Someone who looked human.
“Wait... hey, you! Wait!” Running up to the security guard from his second day, the one who seemed the most reluctant to kick him out, Gavin grinned. Yes, tall, tanned skin, but a muscular build that would work really well. “Have you ever been a model?”
“Uh, no sir? Is something wrong?” The man stared at him in confusion. After he was asked to work security detail for the photoshoot he agreed since he was bored of the lobby, but why was the designer talking to him?
“There's a first time for everything, as they say. No idea who they are, though. Anyway, I really need someone like you for the new collection and I will make sure you are paid for your time and work, in addition to what you're doing right now. Come on, please?”
“S-sir, I can't just leave my post. And I was given instructions to-” Gavin waved his hand.
“Come on, screw those instructions. This place is guarded better than all the banks I have been to. And I am sick of those guys. I want someone real to show what my work is like.” The guard hesitated, but then glanced above the man's shoulder and nodded, as if someone gave him permission to do so.
“Well, if you think I will do well. But I'm not exactly model material.” The security guard muttered.
“Bullshit. Anyone can model anything. You are exactly what I wanted for this. What's your name? I'm Gavin.” He lead the man into the shooting room, unaware that only a moment before Nines went back inside.
“It's Shayne. And... I know who you are sir.” The man just followed him and Gavin nodded. Irish, it seemed, or at least origin-wise might be.
“Cool, then just call me Gavin and not sir. Nines! Hey, I need you to get me one of those contracts you had for those guys for Shayne here because I really want him to model those two pieces. He's perfect for it.” Gavin was almost bouncing with excitement now. The last photo of the day would be Nines modelling the jacket.
“You... just grabbed one of our security guys and made him your model?” Nines was staring at him, then shook his head. “I'm not even surprised. All right, as long as you are fine with it?” He turned to the security guard who just shrugged.
“Eh, beats standing around, I guess. Though this is not really my scene.” He seemed to fidget a little.
“Just you wait. There's changing rooms over there and the underwear is already on the table, along with a matching tie. There's also a robe you can put on if you want, but you'll probably have to go into makeup first. I still have no idea why they powder someone's stomach and then put on shiny powder.” Shaking his head, the designer watched as the man was lead to the changing room and was left alone with Nines.
“You just have to do things your way, don't you?”
“Of course. That's what makes me who I am. Besides, that man has a nice frame and will show off exactly what is needed. Models are too... cookie-cutter. I want a change.” Hell, if he could find someone with a bit of a gut, he would probably ask them to also model things. For now, this would have to suffice.
And Shayne did a great job!
The man was tall, but thick, showing everything off perfectly, his beard hanging low, though obviously trimmed and styled. At least he was the last one to go so there weren't many people around. Gavin personally approved the photos he wanted, most pleased with the result.
“You know, I think you have more hidden talent at Lifewear than you know, Nines. I will definitely want Shayne to work for me again.” When the man was finally allowed to change back, Gavin smiled. “He better get a percentage of every piece that photo sells. Anyway, I guess... shit, how did I agree to this?”
“I wonder that myself, but you agreed to model this specific piece yourself, so go ahead, Gavin.” Nines smirked and ignored the way the man flipped him off as he headed to the changing room.
Things were about to get interesting.
Gavin was most pleased with the way the briefs fit. The length was perfect for his size, the lace on the side showing a hint of skin. He wore his favourite bracelets and cuffs, along with a few heavy rings on his fingers. Grabbing the robe he tugged it around himself and put his boots back on. Staring into the mirror for a moment he tried to reassure himself that this was fine. Nobody would see his face and find out who he was.
Stepping out he ignored Nines completely and walked up to the photographer who directed him to a leather chair he had ready. The robe came off and he tossed it nearby.
“Thanks, but I will pass.” He pulled away from the woman who came at him with some kind of powder on a big brush. “No, really, I don't want that stuff on me.”
“Just let him do as he pleases.” Came Nines's voice and he became aware of the man watching him, the blue gaze not leaving his body.
“Damn right. Let me do as I please.” Gavin muttered as he sat down in the chair.
The photographer told him how to sit, how to show off the underwear, but also the jewellery he wore. Bending his knee to show off the top of his heavy boots he frowned for a second, then tried to relax.
“Don't worry, I know better than to take a photo of your face. Alright, now, stretch your leg a little bit more, that's good. Now try to lean back at the same time, show off the lace detail. Okay.” The light was adjusted a little. “Place your hand lightly on your side... lower, yes, perfect. Alright, now hold.” Multiple flashes went off and he kept blinking each time, but otherwise didn't move.
“Now, stand up and put your leg up on that chair. Those boots look really nice with this style.” Gavin did as told, ignoring the heavy feeling of being watched. The light prevented him from seeing anything beyond them. “Now, use your other hand. Set your arm over the knee, relax your fingers. No, relax them. That's good. You don't have to flex-”
“That's just how I look!” Gavin growled. Flexing? Why would he bother with that?
“Oh, sorry. Alright, then just stay as you are... perfect!” More flashes went off and he did his best not to move. How did people do this for a living?
“Okay, next-”
---
He thought it would be amusing to have the designer himself model the underwear the way he liked it, but the plan seemed to actually backfire on him.
Gavin stepped out in a silky robe, which he dropped quickly. And Nines wasn't ready for that display. The underwear fit him perfectly, the lace on the side adding the allure he spoke of before. And it would be impossible to ignore the fact that the man looked good. More than good.
Either Gavin Reed worked out, or he was damn lucky in this regard. But his body was firm and when he turned around, Nines noticed that his behind looked perfect, especially in those undergarments.
When he was made to pose, directed by the photographer, the Alpha couldn't look away. The scent of lilac and lavender was faint, but it was there. And the longer he stared at the designer, the more he became aware of the man's presence, his heart beating faster. The heavy rings and bracelets contrasted the lace perfectly, Gavin knew what he was talking about when he proposed that, but nothing could have prepared him for this.
Gavin looked incredible.
So when the shoot was over, he felt almost disappointed. As the designer marched off to change back he stepped up to the photographer, hovering behind him.
“I want a copy of each photo to decide which ones I will use for the campaign.” He wanted all of them. For purely professional reasons, of course.
Two minutes later, Gavin Reed was back, dressed in his usual outrageous attire, but all Nines could think of was the underwear and whether he was still wearing it, or not.
“Your turn.” The man nudged him and Nines was brought back to reality. Right, the jacket.
---
He had never had his photograph taken like this for anything other than the yearbook or official IDs. And it felt as awkward and strange as he recalled. Relieved when it was over he knew it was his turn to gloat over how uncomfortable Nines would be having his photo taken.
Gavin didn't think the man would walk out in a pair of the boxers he designed and nothing else.
So many times he had taken the man's measurements to make sure the jacket would be perfect, he had the numbers in his head even now, but it didn't compare to seeing him almost naked. How was he not in the modelling business already? Gavin stared like a fool and Nines unzipped the jacket from the cover, then slid it on, making it look so incredibly casual.
Blue eyes met his and he knew his cheeks were red.
The photographer guided the Alpha to the same chair Gavin sat in moments ago, telling him how to lean back and pose, how to show off the jacket, then handed him a glass of amber liquid. Of course. Classy.
Flashes went off as photos were taken and Gavin knew he could just leave. He had no more business here, but instead he stayed right where he was and stared.
Nines made it all look so casual, so easy, as if he had been made for this kind of thing. The jacket showed his body off perfectly as he stood up to strike another pose, the boxers cupping him almost too damn well. He thought he would have been able to mock the man for this, but instead he found himself admiring the way Nines made everything look perfect. It was a wonderful decision to tailor the jacket to fit him, but a terrible one as well.
By the time the photo shoot was done, Gavin's mind was full of new ideas, all made to fit just one man. A nice vest, with the finest brocade. A shirt that would show off his forearms. A suit that would look amazing both in a meeting and outside of it. Too many ideas and too little time.
“Gavin? Gavin!?” Snapping out of it when Nines stood before him, all dressed once again, Gavin looked at the man. Why was he still wearing that jacket over his shirt? “Sorry, you appeared lost in thoughts. The shoot is wrapped up, but I am glad you were around till the end. The photographer will send me the photos by the end of next week, but I told him to also send them to you in case you have any preference. As the head designer, you should definitely have a say in what we publish.”
“Yea, sounds good. Seems like today was a success, as far as I'm concerned. Anyway, I think I should head home. You know, it's Friday and we all want to go out and do stuff. Or just ignore the world and stay at home doing nothing.” With a soft laugh he stepped out of the room, toying with the keys in his pocket.
He would definitely go home, change clothes, and then go out. With some luck he could find a partner for the night. After all these weeks of work and pressure he wanted some relief.
“I agree. It's been a rough couple of days, so some rest is well-deserved. Any plans for tonight?” Nines's question was innocent enough, but Gavin knew he couldn't answer it.
“Not really. Maybe I will just grab a drink at a bar somewhere and head home. You?” He walked with the man to the elevators where the musky scent reached him again.
“Probably the same. I would invite you out, but I doubt that we would match on our bar preferences.” Nines's breathing was a bit heavier as well.
“Definitely not. I don't go to places where prosecco is soup du jour.” When the elevator door opened he was almost happy to get out. “Anyway, see you Monday!” Waving as he got into his car, which still seemed to piss many people off with its age and look, Gavin pulled out of his assigned parking space and drove off.
---
One quick shower later and Gavin felt no different, just eager to go out and find someone. It has been a while and he just had to avoid any Alpha he would encounter. The same song and dance as always. Grabbing a clean pair of jeans, these with only small rips on the knees, and a plain black t-shirt, Gavin took his leather jacket and headed out, calling a taxi.
Never drink and drive. His father would never forgive him if he did. Growing up with an Alpha detective was not always easy, but at least the man never treated him like trash because of what he was.
Probably after he beat up his Alpha brother for being an asshole. But Elijah had it coming.
Their mum was not happy, but dad seemed almost proud. And strangely enough, he got along with his brother much better after almost breaking his nose. Strange how some things worked.
Getting out of the taxi somewhere Downtown he thought of his options. A classic pub or bar would not cut it tonight, no, he needed something else. A place where people would gather and where he would be able to find someone suitable. Which wasn't easy considering his own looks and personality.
After looking at his phone for a bit he found a nice place recommended not only for their drinks, but also as a hunting ground for casual hook-ups. Exactly what he needed.
The place was barely half-full and he easily found a seat at the bar, ordering a beer as he scanned the room. A few groups hanging out, some couples out to have a good time, and some singles mingling about. So far, so bland.
Nobody matched his type. He never really had any, but recently he developed a taste for tall men. Someone with nice hair and intense eyes. Good forearms were also nothing to frown at. But here? There was not one person who would match that description, not one man who would suit his taste. And he never had much of a taste aside from his partner not being an Alpha.
When did that change?
---
Nines sat at the bar and scanned the place again, but in the thirty minutes he had been there nobody caught his attention. He went home and changed clothes, something more casual than his usual, but even now seemed too intimidating. The bartender himself just served him without really meeting his gaze, which in itself was annoying.
On his second whisky, wondering if he should perhaps switch to a different place, this bar doing nothing for him, Nines looked at his phone. Barely nine in the evening. Damn.
It was the moment he saw Gavin in those briefs, looking as cocky as always, posing like he was made for it, that awakened something inside he thought he was gone. That was why he wanted all photos from the shoot. Not to select the best ones, since the photographer himself had an eye for that, but to see them all.
Staring at the pictures of himself Gavin took a couple days prior he smiled. The man really knew his stuff. The jacket was now hanging at his house, right where he could see it. After all, why not take what was custom made to fit him? He would have worn it tonight had it not been so important and... precious.
Smiling at his phone he sat up as it hit him out of nowhere.
Lilac and vanilla.
He glanced around, eyes wide, and then saw him a moment later.
Gavin Reed sat at the opposite end of the bar, looking equally as bored, drinking his beer as his eyes scanned the place. Could it be...?
Calling the bartender over he whispered something to him, nodding towards Gavin briefly, then sat back and looked at his phone. Typing something he frowned, erased it, then tried again. And erased that as well. It was the fourth message that he was satisfied with before he hit send.
Fancy a drink with me?
A second later, he heard a faint chime and watched as Gavin took out his phone, and looked around, bewildered. Then their eyes met and Nines smirked.
Perhaps tonight could be interesting after all.