Mea Culpa 5/?

[imogen-lily.livejournal.com]

Disclaimer: not mine, don't know them. Made up. Please don't sue.

N.B. This entire chapter is a flashback

Orlando looked around. He should be happy; he was surrounding by his friends – his beloved Fellowship, his wonderful boyfriend, he should be having a great time. He wasn't. The party was amazing, there was no denying that. Liv and Elijah had really outdone themselves and it was great to meet everyone again, so what was wrong? A five letter word was what was wrong.

V-i-g-g-o ... to be precise.

He hadn’t see Him, but Orli knew he would turn up, why shouldn't he? Apart from Elijah, he was one of the main characters after all. He couldn't ask them to turn Viggo away; that was unfair to everyone and Viggo just wanted to see his friends, there was no reason for them to even see each other, right? Right, breathe deep. He could do this, Mark was here beside him, just stay away from Viggo and everything would be fine. He was an actor for God sake, if something happened; just…well…act normal. Be cool, calm, collected. Just like Viggo.

NO! NO NO NO!!!! Not Viggo. No Viggo. Definitely bad thoughts, he couldn't… wouldn’t go there. He'd pushed Viggo to the back of his mind for so long now, why did it have to pop up now, why here of all places, couldn’t he just forget about the man and move on? He had Mark, after all. Mark loved him and he loved Mark, so why couldn’t forget about Him? He prayed Viggo would stay away. As long as he maintained a distance, things should be alright. He glanced at Mark who seemed slightly on edge. He knew Mark didn't like these things. Pubs and clubs absolutely, but celebrity parties weren’t his scene to say the least and he really appreciated him coming to this. Orlando smiled at him as he moved closer to Mark, showing his support. This was their first major, major outing as a couple. He'd met all hobbits, obviously, but not the entire cast, and certainly not like this.

"So this is the reunion, huh?" Mark asked, eyeing around the place as he wrapped an arm round Orlando. Not bad, well, as far as these acting bashes went. Wasn't really into them himself, never had been. Too many egos and too much falseness. He’d met so many of them on various films sets that he’d begun to feel that they were an entirely different breed, until he met Orlando, anyway, Orlando had been so different, even as the star of a major movie, he’d been almost...shy, going out of his way to help the crew when he could. Mark had found that endearing not to mention rather unusual. In the film business, the ‘crew’ didn’t really figure much in movie stars brains. In Mark’s experience they couldn’t think beyond their next paycheck or eye lift. Mark had hated them. He didn't have time, or inclination to sugar-coat things for spoilt celebrities with their heads so far up their arses that clinical extraction was needed. So far, he'd been pleasantly surprised. The cast were in normal clothes (and most of those weren’t even designer labels), no sparkling gowns or tuxes. No red carpets or caviar. They all seemed to know each other, laughing and messing around like a big extended family of sorts. Definitely not typical Hollywood behaviour and it made for a nice change. He glanced round the room, trying to spot any familiar faces.

He already knew Elijah the Midget (as he’d taken to nicknaming him) and Dominic, obviously. Orlando didn't do anything without them and he sometimes wondered if they'd been more than friends in the past. He didn't like that idea. He asked Orlando once, who'd laughed and insisted nothing had gone on and so he'd left it alone, but he still wondered ... they were so close so… touchy-feely. Then there was Billy, who he'd met a couple of times. He seemed pretty down to earth, (for a Scot anyway), not forgetting Astin (what was his first name? Who cared, they all blended into one as far as he was concerned), who completed the 'hobbits' as they called themselves, again no massive egos.

Of all the 'hobbits' Sean was the one who bothered Mark least, seemingly settled happily married with a family, and also flirted the least with Orlando, kept his hands away, perhaps Sean could be trusted around Orlando, but then all the Hobbit’s general 'bond' with Orlando was beyond creepy, and frankly seemed rather too familiar for 'friends'. Also a girl called Lynn…no Liv. She was definitely beautiful and Mark found himself wondering what being with a woman would be like. She looked so soft and inviting…had Orlando ever been with her? Probably. After all, he'd been with the blond chick before him, so he definitely liked girls. Mark had never been bothered with girls but with Liv...she was so girly, her laugh was infectious. In some ways she reminded him of Orlando.

They could have been brother and sister, twins even, and not just from their similar appearances but the way they interacted, all the little in-jokes and gestures it was almost like some bizarre form of ESP, where words were not needed, all the Fellowship shared this and it unnerved Mark, since when did telepathy evolve on a movie set? They seemed alright as people, but he didn't like the way they touched Orlando; it was as if they wanted Orlando for themselves. That wasn't good, Orlando was his boyfriend. His. He was the only one allowed to touch and kiss Orlando like that. A glow of pride ran through Mark, that he’d won Orlando. He could never understand Mortensen’s rumoured reluctance to display his relationship with Orlando. Proud to have Orlando by his side, to openly display their love for the world. Who wouldn’t? But that didn’t give people the right to touch Orlando. That was his sole right. After all, Orlando was impossibly gorgeous, some could argue sin made flesh, but he was also off the market. People should learn to keep their distance. He didn't want Orlando getting any ideas; he wouldn't tolerate infidelity from Orlando. It all started out innocently enough, kisses, hugs and before you know it, you're in bed together. No, that wasn't going to happen this time.

Certainly he loved Orlando, it was really impossible not to. But Mark found himself beginning to question if he could trust, really trust Orlando. People that beautiful were rarely faithful. They were used to being indulged, their every whim catered for and when the excitement wore off, would be looking for the next ‘fix’ of adoration, leaving a trail of broken hearts in their wake. Infidelity was so common place now; no one batted an eyelid if a married celebrity (usually a man, it had to be said) went off with a one-nighter or fellow co-star.

He prayed Orlando wouldn't do that. He didn't want to lose Orlando, not like that. Not only was he beyond amazing in bed, but it was Orlando as a person that called to him. There was something untouched and pure about him, almost as if he glowed. And the truly strange thing was that he was unaware of it, of his own magnificence, and that in itself was almost as appealing as Orlando himself. If he was a poet or a luvvie (which he most definitely wasn’t. God he got so sick of everyone assuming gay = luvvie, honestly not every gay guy was like the Queer Eye bunch, why couldn’t they see that, or were they simply too afraid to deal with it any other way?) , he might compare Orlando to a beacon of light, but this was rather maudlin and Mark wasn't one for fancy words or poetic phrases, he’d always believed actions spoke louder than words. Orlando simply wasn't like anyone he'd ever met, and now that he had Orlando, he didn't ever want to let him go.

Orlando had told Mark once that his ‘special’ group of friends were called `the Fellowship'. What a word, fellowship ... he didn't even want to begin to think about all the kinky things that must've gone on during that film. That many guys and nothing happening? Yeah right. It was the same with Troy and Kingdom of Heaven, they were all boys movies, and many of Orlando’s co stars had been highly attractive. At one point he was sure that there was more than ‘brothers’ to Orlando’s ‘friendship’ with that Hulk guy, Eric (which yet again Orlando had denied with a laugh and a shrug) No, Orlando would have to keep his distance from now on. Not tempt anyone, but then Orli (God he hated that stupid nickname, it sounded like some Disney sidekick, possibly some cutesy talking rodent. Orli the chipmunk. How endearing) Orlando, rather, could seduce a nun, a pope and a saint all in one evening. The guy was walking sex; just looking at him gave Mark chills, strictly the good kind. Orlando just had to be very careful that he didn't encourage anyone. Mark didn't really want to set ground rules, but he could see something would have to be done. Orlando was his and as long as he remembered that, things would be fine.

"Hey! Orli!! Orli, Mark! Over here!" yelled Billy as he waved frantically trying to catch his attention. Orlando grinned at his friend. Taking Mark's hand, he helped him navigate through the sea of bodies until he finally reached the quartet of hobbits. Without pausing, Elijah threw himself forward and hugs Orlando enthusiastically before handing him a drink. The hobbits greeted Orli and Mark, in turn; Billy soundly thumping Orlando on the back, after giving him a bear hug and Dominic pressing a kiss to Orli’s check. Even married hobbit…(Astin was it?) gave an enthusiastic hug, he should know better than to touch someone else’s partner.

Dom noticed Elijah, as usual, kept his distance where Mark was concerned and frowned at his friend's behaviour. He really didn't want another `Kate-redux', thank you very much. After all his childish and hurtful behaviour, which Billy had tried repeatedly to lecture the young hobbit on to no avail, Elijah had actually come, God forbid, to like her and had spent hours with her discussing music, one of her main passions in life, which when coupled with her genuine affection for Orli ("no, she isn't a gold-digger or a demon, Elijah, sorry") he had, albeit grudgingly, warmed to her and ended up giggling like a couple of kids, which, considering their respective ages, wasn't far off the mark. Dominic resisted the urge to poke Elijah sharply in the back. It wasn't like Elijah was being rude or snotty, exactly. It was…well…almost, wariness. To an extent, Dom could understand that. While Mark was relatively tall, he wasn't a giant or a bodybuilder, but he definitely had some real strength, there was something about Mark that he couldn’t quite define but it screamed: ‘don’t fuck with me or you’ll regret it’. Dom had seen him working on Kingdom of Heaven when visiting Orlando; he'd been impressed, even mentioning to Orli that he wouldn't want to get into a drunken brawl with Mark, at which they'd both laughed.

He couldn't make Elijah like Mark (although by God he and Billy had tried), but surely Elijah could stop being such a brat? No one was asking Elijah to jump into bed with the guy or anything. He couldn’t work out where the hostility was coming from, Mark was a good guy, and more to the point he was good for Orlando. While Dom couldn't deny that at times Mark appeared intimidating, he wasn't going to bite Lij's head off. Besides, Orlando had been with Mark for five…or was it six months now? That was plenty of time for Lij to get used to Mark. He really needed to grow up. His mind drifted back to the conversation as Sean and Billy happily nattered with Mark about their latest projects. Orlando seemed decidedly quiet as Elijah babbled on about nothing to him. It was obvious his thoughts were somewhere else.

"Is this a private club or can anyone join?" came a smooth voice from behind them. Elijah stopped rabbiting for a moment (Orlando had long lost the thread of the conversation) and turned to find Karl grinning at them. Billy and Sean stopped talking as they greeted him warmly. Karl gave Orlando a brotherly squeeze before turning to Mark, his eyes clouding in slight confusion. Of course, Karl had never met Mark. Introductions…Orlando hated doing them. There was a part of him that always worried people would hate Mark, or would disagree with Orlando for moving on. Everyone loved Viggo, would they feel Orlando was moving on too quickly? As far as he was aware, Viggo hadn’t been with anyone since the break-up – no one serious anyway, but that was hardly his problem was it? Mentally shaking himself he pushed away his thoughts, and stepped forward to make the necessary introductions.

"Karl, this is Mark, my boyfriend. Mark, Karl. Karl played Eomer, blond warrior prince in a helmet" he added, not that it would mean much to Mark. He hadn't watched the trilogy and had no intention of watching `grown men ponce around in tights' as Mark politely referred to it as. Karl's warm smile seemed to ease Orlando's worries, he should’ve known Karl wouldn’t judge him; it just wasn’t in the man’s nature. "So this is the illustrious Mark. Nice to meet you. The hobbits have been going on about you for a while. Shame we couldn't meet sooner really, but you know the fame game - never gives you a minute’s peace." Karl sighed slightly. Mark merely smiled politely.

"I can imagine, Orlando never stops working, I don't know how you all do it. Personally I don't get the whole globetrotting thing, seems like a pain in the arse to cope with" Mark shrugged

"Ignore him Karl, he's being deliberately obtuse. He's really a big fan of the mile high club" Orlando grinned wolfishly at Mark, before planting a kiss on his cheek. Elijah's mouth dropped at Orli's lewd reply Billy let out a snort of laughter, while Dom and Sean struggled to conceal their sniggers, Karl himself merely raised an eyebrow. Mark said nothing, but smiled and pulled Orlando closer to him, letting his lips brush Orlando's. Looking at the two Karl felt a smile spread across his face, it was such a relief to see Orli smile again, a real one. He'd forgotten just how devastating that smile was, Karl was quite sure it had been responsible for a few heart-failures.

He might not be…completely into guys but as with everyone else, Orlando was an exception to the rule. God he’d missed that smile, it was as if someone lit a beacon in Orlando and light radiated from it, OK that was horribly corny but it didn’t make it any less true. It was far too long since Orli had smiled or laughed, and Karl was more than a little relived that his favourite elf was clearly on the mend. Sure, Mark wasn't Viggo, but that was good. There was no tortured artist about him, no hang-ups or Deep Angsty Thoughts. Of course Viggo couldn't change who he was, nor would Karl want him to after all Viggo was his friend as much as Orli was, and Karl wasn’t a man to take sides (God he hated break-ups, so horribly messy) despite his rather pratish behaviour towards Orlando, Viggo was a good guy (regardless of what the hobbits said) but he couldn’t for the life of him understand why Vig had broken things off with Orlando, things had seemed fine between them, then, bam - over.

Their break-up had shocked him, hell the whole Fellowship had been stunned, and caused more than a little depression and worry among them; surely if Viggo and Orli couldn't make it, no one could? Pushing his gloomy thoughts away he came decided that if Mark could make Orlando smile and laugh, then he would be Mark's life-long fan. "So come Orli. Is it true?" he cajoled with a grin. Orlando blinked owlishly at him for a moment, not sure what he was referring to, the ‘smacked by a tree’ look as Elijah kindly referred to it, Karl pushed the evil thought away as he felt a smirk rising.

"Depends what you're talking about. There's a lot of unsavoury rumours about our dear Orlando circulating on the net, one can’t be too careful what you read nowadays, nothing but smut and scandal surrounding our once pure elf" Billy grinned.

“Yep, that I heard, it was something about Orlando, a rubber duck, a feather boa and a mango in a strange place, that I’m not going to go into details about, suffice to say, it scarred grandmothers across the country for life, poor dears” Dom added, his face a mask of stern disapproval. Utterly bonkers. Karl burst out laughing at that; he forgot how much he missed all of this. Orlando smirked at him.

"I would like to point out to those present, those rumours were completely unfounded, Mr. Monaghan, and I can categorically state I did not have any relations of any nature with that duck, or the mango, so get your filthy minds out the gutter Boyd and Monaghan, you Hobbit-sized gits” he said haughtily

“What about the feather boa?”

“We have a special understanding” was all Orlando replied, wigging his eyebrows. Karl rolled his eyes, enjoying the insanity of hobbits and the elf. "Please forgive them Mark. I hope they're not always like this."

"Karl-Heinz Urban! I'll have you know we're nothing but completely discrete and sober around Mark," Billy gasped, sounding mortally offended. "We're completely natural around Mark, aren't we? Well…normal for us anyway," Elijah grinned, an evil little smirk dancing around his lips. Mark made no comment on this, but resisted the urge to wipe that grin of the little prat’s face. Ever since they’d first met the yank had rubbed him up the wrong way, Elijah made no secret of his loathing for Mark, which he was more than happy to reciprocate, he only tolerated him because of Orlando, but his patience was already wearing thin. Karl sighed, he'd obviously get no sense on this matter, but then he should've guessed as much. Nice to know some things never changed, no matter how irritating…

"So Mr. Bloom, getting back to our original topic, what does it feel like being nominated for an academy award?" Karl asked, his eyes dancing with mischief as he pretended to hold up a mike. Orlando tipped his head to one side and pretended to ponder this question carefully.

"Well…it's unreal. It's amazing what a prosthetic hump-back can do for your carrier, but I’d like to give special thanks to Sidi, my mother, God, my agent, my fan base, my fan girls, my posse, my peeps, my limo driver, my feng shi coach and my ten vegan pastry chefs - without them I am nothing" Orlando grinned. "In all honesty I don't think it's fully sunk in yet. I mean `Perfume' was exhausting but it was so much fun. It doesn't feel right to be awarded for having fun, kind of like being paid to…I dunno eat cake or something," he shrugged, his voice suddenly turning serious. "Anyway, I doubt I'll win. Have you actually seen who I'm competing against? We’re talking some serious heavyweight in Hollywood, I’m a bloody featherweight" the old insecurities beginning to seep through.

"There’s no one that you can't beat Orli," Karl said seriously. Honestly, Orlando didn't give himself enough credit, he remember how on the Rings set Orlando had always pushed himself to the limit, worried he wasn’t working hard enough or fast enough. At one point he’s practically driven himself into the ground he’d been working so hard, at the point of virtual collapse, Viggo hadn’t exactly been happy when he discovered that and had almost yelled at Orlando for being so dismissive of his talent, which had lead to an upset Orlando and Viggo practically carrying Orlando back the trailer amid several cat-calls, where Karl was pretty sure Viggo had tried another method of ‘convincing.’ Whatever he’d done, it’d worked wonders, so where did all this suddenly come from? You’d think after so many films under his belt that Orlando would be more confident in his abilities. He should really give himself a break.

"C'mon Orli, I've seen the film, and read the book. The guy's a psychopathic hunchbacked serial killer with an obsession for smell. That's a hard one to pull off. Give yourself a little credit; the academy thinks you do, and who are we to question their all knowing authority?" he grinned.

"He's right Orli. What was it like under all that make-up and the fake back?" asked Elijah, genuinely curious. "I swear I would've never recognised you without your contacts out. Man they were fucking freaky!"

"Hot, tiring, sweaty, defiantly not pleasant. I mean, Grenouille's face alone took five hours, not to mention the whole hunchback and twisted limbs. I had to go back to physio a few times, as the back mould started causing a bit of a problem, but that was pretty much it. But it was great fun; we had such a laugh, although I don't think I'd like to go through something like that for a while again. Next time it's definitely no make-up and modern setting," he vowed.

“Sure, just like your swore with your previous eight films. Give it up Orli, you belong in fantasy land, you’re a Princely Pirate Elven Knight through and through” laughed Karl as Orlando rolled his eyes. The conversation gradually progressed to the various projects the hobbits were undertaking and after Billy ordered them to have fun circulating, Orlando and Mark obediently moved away, leaving the hobbits to generate mindless chatter with Karl.

Halfway across the room he was greeted by a streak of raven hair as Liv wrapped Orlando in a tight hug. "God Orli! I've missed you so much. I'm so glad you could both come!" she squealed as she moved back slightly and hugged Mark as well, although not quite as enthusiastically as Orlando. She didn't fancy accidentally cutting off Mark's air supply.

"This is great Liv. I can't believe you and Lij managed to organise all this. My hat's off to you both," he grinned, mock-bowing. Liv dropped into a deep curtsey.

"My thanks good sir. I can't believe we actually managed to get everything done. Lij can be such a stubborn little ass at times. I believe he had a `vision'” here Liv rolled her eyes and Orlando chortled, typical Elijah, he always went over the top. “Vision my ass, he just wanted to get the credit for everything” she groused good-naturedly.

"As if that wasn't bad enough, time was non existent because Lij's director wanted him to do a billion retakes, and my agent kept ringing about some weird ad series. I was amazed we actually managed to get ten minutes together to organise this. Thank God for e-mail and phone!" She and Orlando laughed together. "Anyway, I'm so glad you guys could make it. I know this must seem really weird for you," she offered to Mark, who simply shrugged, smiling slightly. He'd been noticed. Hooray. "I don't really mind. They're Orlando's friends and it was a big movie," he said somewhat diplomatically. Smart move. Liv smiled at him.

"Well thanks for coming anyway. You both look great, by the way. Nice outfit Orli, very trashy. You'll be certified trailer trash in no time," she grinned impishly as she deliberately looked him up and down. He actually looked fantastic, as usual.

Casual yet slightly quirky, a style that always looked good on him, but then, of course, only Orli could carry off. No matter what he wore, from those hideous neon shirts which had now thankfully ‘disappeared’ from his wardrobe (she briefly wondered who to thank for that, Dom or Kate…) to the smart tuxes he was obliged to wear on occasion, yet even in those, he always managed to look slightly different. Whether it was his innumerable pendants, or a piece of cloth wrapped round his wrist. Liv herself didn’t see the point of that, unless he had hickies on his wrist, she was positive that was the reason for his obsessive scarf-ware all made up for the rather...eclectic wardrobe of her dear Mr Bloom. Orlando looked at her in mock outrage.

"Are you suggesting, Ms. Tyler, that I, who has impeccable taste, am actually lacking in the taste department?" he demanded, a demented grin on his face. This was what he needed, to just let go and enjoy himself. He'd forgotten how great it was to be around all the cast again. It was so easy to lose contact with them and that was the last thing he wanted. It was good to be childish and goofy. Perhaps it wasn't considered dignified to be a goofball anymore, as he was, supposedly, a `bona fide star' (whatever that meant) but to hell with it. No matter what people said, at the end of the day he was a nerd…geek…or whatever they were called. There was nothing he could do about it now. Shame. "Oh and congrats on the Oscar nom, very much deserved. God that film freaked me out! I'll have the Nazgul over that creep any day," she grinned doing a theatrical shudder.

"I know what you mean. When Sam brought her kids up to visit on set one time, I was still in makeup and I think I scared Sam to death, I haven’t seen her so scared since Bast told her a troll would eat her brains when she was five. It took her about ten minutes to calm down. Of course Gabriel thought it was `totally cool' and wanted to see if he could borrow some ‘gross teeth’ to take to school, I think he’s trading in on the fact his uncle’s in the movies and Alex decided to see if she could pull out any of the hair, the wig department nearly had a heart attack. That kid's got a really tough grip, she obviously takes after her mum" he chuckled. Liv grinned at that image. She'd met Orlando's nephew and niece once and the boy was like an extremely hyperactive imp like an extremely hyperactive imp for lack of a better word.

He was so like Orlando had been when he first arrived on the Rings set it was uncanny, it was like having a mini-Orlando around, albeit one intent one causing as many mischief as possible. Seeing how gentle and patiently Orlando had been with the children was heartbreaking, it was no secret Orlando adored children, but neither Viggo or Kate had got round to discussing it with Orlando, although she betted that if Viggo hadn’t monumentally cocked things up then they would have eventually adopted or have IVF, being a parent was an experience no one should miss out on, least of all Orli

"How's Roystie?" Orlando grinned. He'd definitely missed his elf princess. He'd missed Liv, not to mention Beanie, Miranda and Ian, and that wasn’t counting John, Karl, Hugo, and Craig… and... Oh hell, he missed everyone! He didn’t do well with separations; he needed people around, needed people around. These friends, his Fellowship, kept him grounded and sane – when they weren’t driving him up the wall that was. It was so hard to believe been over five years since Lord of the Rings officially wrapped up and catching up was very much needed. At the mention of her beloved husband, Liv rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed.

"First he was going to be a European tour with Spacehog, then that got cancelled due to crap weather, so he promised to come to this. Of course then he had to go and get a cold. Well, he says flu. Absolutely typical, so he's moping at home feeling sorry for himself, claiming he's going to die and planning his will, etc., etc. Typical man, always over-reacting" she sighed. Orli merely raised an eyebrow but Liv waved it off. "I'm not counting you in that Orli, obviously."

"Good to know," Orlando grinned. "So how is life treating you, besides having a flu induced hubby?"

"I'm gonna do a new music vid with Dad. I think he misses me a lot. Then they're the Gavincy campaign and the movie `Between Worlds'. Hopefully I'll be getting the script soon since they've been `touching it up' a bit. And…well, I…I'm going to have a baby," she grinned sheepishly. Orlando's face lit up as he hugged her tightly.

"That's so great Liv! You'll be an amazing mum! I'm so happy for you. Pass my congrats onto Roystie too. You'll be great parents! When are you due?" he grinned. He'd meant every word. He knew Liv had wanted kids for a couple of years now, but something had always got in the way.

"I'm three months along, so quite a while but I wanted you to be one of the first to know. I don't know what Gavincy will say when they find out. God forbid I might put on some weight! Maybe they could airbrush all the pounds off? Oh well, screw them if they're not happy, I’m gonna have a baby" she grinned, a silly smile plastered on her face.

“Any thoughts on names yet?”

”Well Roystie claims when wants his grandparents names, but since they were Alfonso and Gertrude I’m vetoing that, I don’t care what he says, it’s scar the poor kid for life. So far I’ve got Hermione for a girl and Milo for a boy…”

Mark hung back slightly. It always amazed him how openly affectionate Orlando was with his friends, even if he hadn't seen them for months, as if they'd never been parted. Quite bizarre. He repressed a sigh. He wasn't happy; he was fucking bored he hated these `mingling things'. When there were just a couple of them, it was OK, but all this hyper energy was really too much. Any second now he expected them all to join hands around a camp fire with guitar and start singing ‘Cum By Yah’ It was as if they had permanent megawatt smiles painted on, everyone had their own codes of talking, little jokes, the atmosphere was almost electric. God wasn’t there a single normal person here? He watched as Liv and Orlando talked easily, occasionally touching each other, laughing and just generally catching up.

For the most part he ignored the conversation and glanced around the room. There were so many people here and he only recognised a handful at most, but Orlando seemed to know everyone cast or crew. He smiled and hugged and laughed, held nothing back. As usual. Mark cringed when he saw Orlando crushing Liv into a bear hug, and he could have sworn he heard the word `baby' in their conversation and resisted rolling his eyes. Hmm, so she was pregnant? Big deal. It wasn't as if it was earth shattering news, was it? Women got pregnant all the time ... they got fat, weepy and a baby popped out. End of story. What was so damn fascinating about it?

Liv turned back to Orlando, and Mark. That relived Orlando, the last thing he wanted for Mark was for him feel ignored and isolated. "What about you Orli, sweetie? Any thoughts on a family?" There was a brief pause as she looked between Orlando and Mark. Smart move Tyler, obviously not an awkward topic. She berated herself. "I'd…ur… like to, I guess…sometime…" Orlando admitted quietly, fumbling over his words slightly. Mark wasn't happy. He hadn't talked about it with Orlando, and didn't intend to. As far as he was concerned, there was nothing to discuss. Children were not an option. Orlando wanting children was certainly news to him.

Why would any guy want children? With woman wasn’t it like, pre-programmed that they cooed over babies and stuff, besides Orlando didn’t need kids, he had Mark. "We haven't talked about it Liv. It's a big decision and Orlando needs to focus his attention on his carrier, right hon?" he asked. Mark's tone made it clear to both that the discussion was at an end. That puzzled Liv. She knew Orlando desperately wanted a family, had wanted one for quite a while, although he tried to keep it silent, but it was obvious to anyone, the way he plays with his nephew and niece, or any kids on each movie set...didn’t Mark notice that? Surely Mark could understand that desire in Orlando. Didn't he want kids? She found that strange.

Kate and Viggo…they'd both liked kids, loved them. Orlando had immediately taken to Henry on meeting him, and Kate obviously wanted to be a mom one day. Even when they'd split up, Orli and Kate had talked about children, Kate apparently sharing the same view of Orlando having children, and Liv briefly wondered if Kate would ever surrogate for Orlando, although he'd never ask that of her. It just wasn't his way.

She had no doubt Orlando would make an amazing father, whether he adopted or had a surrogate mother, but fatherhood was definitely not something he should miss out on. But then again, he and Mark hadn't been together for very long so perhaps they needed more time together. After all, even having one child was a major decision and Mark would need to be fully behind the decision as well. As for Orlando's career, what did Mark mean by `focus'? He'd just been nominated for an Oscar for God's sake. How much more focus did he need? God knows he'd nearly driven himself into the ground, working non stop, especially after the break-up, it had been all Orli had thought about, she’d never seen that focused intensity in Orlando before and for a while she’d been worried, but kept her fears to herself, knowing Orlando probably wouldn’t want her clucking like a mother hen around him, especially when he’d had the hobbits, and later Kate to nag him constantly. Just like Viggo used to.

She secretly believed Viggo had revelled in babying Orlando. Speaking of the ranger, where was he? She knew Viggo was here somewhere, no doubt trying to stay out of the Hobbits way. It appeared Elijah and Dominic still weren’t on the best terms with Viggo. Billy and Sean on the other hand appeared to have given up trying to hound Viggo to death and had even spoken to him a couple of times. She couldn’t understand why Lij and Dom were being so pig-headed about this, yes Viggo screwed up but he wasn’t a saint and it was years ago, why couldn’t they forgive and forget? Privately she believed it was the ring barrier behind the continued animosity to Viggo, the little hobbit it appeared didn’t forgive a slight against the Elf. Hopefully Viggo and Orlando would keep their distance, and nothing would happen. Both were grown men and if they ran into each other (which she silently prayed to every god and deity that was known to man, and woman, that that wouldn't happen), hopefully they would be civil. Wishful thinking, ex's meetings were never pretty.

At that moment, she felt someone peck her cheek. Turning around, she grinned. "Viggo!!" she squeaked, sounding suspiciously like Mickey (or rather Minnie) mouse on helium. Acting on instinct she flung her arms round him, before she suddenly felt herself stiffen as she remembered Orlando and Mark standing there and a horrible sensation washed over her. Shit. This was not going to be pretty. Inwardly she cursed. Why now?! Of all the times Viggo could have come up to her, why was it when Orlando was with her. Didn’t he see Orli with her?! She felt his hug immediately loosen. Oh crap, he'd seen Orlando and judging from Orlando's suddenly rigid and tense posture, he'd most definitely seen Viggo. It was bound to happen some time, she tried to reason. They couldn't avoid each other forever. Besides, it was about time they got some closure, clear the end, it’d been good therapy. It could turn out all right. Perhaps. Maybe. God they were screwed.

"Right! This is great seeing you Viggo, but… I um…I think I'll uh…go get some punch and have a talk to…ah Miranda! I think I could use some y'know... girly gossip, nothing to interest you guys. I'm sure you have tons to talk about and reminisce over and stuff. Great to see you Orli and you Vig, but uh…got to circulate and stuff. Bye!" she garbled as she practically sprinted off in any direction that was far from the potentially explosive scene before her. She loved Orli dearly, she truly did. He was like a brother to her, and felt she was abandoning him, but she loved Viggo too, maybe not in a quite such a brotherly way but she hated the idea of either of them hurting. The last thing she wanted to see was two of her friends so unhappy and uncomfortable.

Maybe it was cruel to bolt like that, but it would've been just too painful. Besides, as hard as it was for them, this was something Viggo and Orlando had to work out by themselves. They had a lot of issues, but hopefully would be able to work them out. Spotting Miranda across the room, she sagged in relief and quickly made a beeline for her, and gently tugged on Miranda's arm, pulling her away from the swell of bodies.

"What's going on? Is something wrong?" Miranda asked, noticing Liv's worried face.

"You could say that. Viggo's just run into Orlando, accidentally, I hope to God. I was talking to Orli when, boom, Viggo came up and kissed me. He must not have seen Orli before, but when he did, they just... froze."

"So you just ran away, deserting them?" Miranda asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Yep! Far be it from be to be in the line of fire" Liv sighed, as she moved over to the punch bowl and poured herself a large glassful. Times like this she almost wished she still smoked, she mused.

"Smart girl," summarised Miranda, taking her own glass from Liv. "I hope they'll be OK," she mused. "What are the odds of them both coming out alive?"

"Well, I've just met Mark."

"Mark?...wait, Orlando's Mark?"

"The one and same."

"Oh God. This just gets better and better. You sure Kate didn't turn up as well? It could be an ex’s reunion, just what we need to liven things up. Those poor guys... Is he good looking?"

"Miranda! Yeah he is. Not like Orli, because he's beautiful, and, well, Orli ... Mark's more masculine, but he's still got the goods. He’s got really lovely blue eyes, not to mention well built, not really big but…nice…plus he can really dress, naturally."

"I just hope the Hobbits don't see this. If they do, Viggo's a dead man. I still wonder if Elijah's trying to plot Viggo's `accidental' death. I think Beanie's had to organise private security for him. You know how those Hobbits are tricksey creatures," Miranda sighed, a slight smile on her lips. "Jokes aside… I really feel for Orli. God, it must've been terrible for him, and for Viggo, I mean I assume it was a shock to him as well, I hope to God he didn't plan that."

"No...no way Viggo would do that, he looked as dazed as Orli, but I know what you mean. I feel really bad for bolting. He looked like he'd just been punched in the gut. I hope it'll work out alright."

"I'm sure it will; he's got Mark with him after all. Viggo's a grown man. He'll behave himself," Miranda encouraged, giving Liv a comforting hug.

"Oh…I've got some news to tell you-" Liv began, a huge smile splitting across her face.

***

Viggo couldn't believe his eyes. Orlando. His Orlando was standing right there facing him. How could he have not noticed before when he saw Liv? He tried desperately to stop his eyes from raking over Orlando, who looked like he was made of stone…no marble. A perfect, flawless sculpture. If Michelangelo could have seen Orlando…David had nothing on him. It'd been almost three years since he'd seen Orlando, not much some would argue but to him it'd been an eternity. An eternity of hell. Everywhere he looked, there was Orlando, especially now with the Oscars coming up, he was on every magazine, his films up on billboards...the endless interviews… But that was only in the outside world. For Viggo, he could still feel him in his house, under his skin; it didn't matter where he went, Orlando was there, reminding him what he’d lost.

He only had to look around the house for memories to flood back, and for that reason alone, he didn't spend much time there now. His eyes drifted away from Orlando briefly to the guy next to him. No doubt this was Mark. Orlando's boyfriend, who how had Orlando. Viggo wanted nothing more than to punch the man, besides shrivel up and die. Sean had warned him ahead of time that they would be at the party, despite the concern in Beanie’s voice, Viggo had understood what he really meant ... be prepared for the inevitable meeting and please don't make a scene when that time came.

So this was Mark. Orlando’s Mark. Viggo hated him already. Well, despised would be more accurate. He was attractive, not even Viggo could deny that. Thick dark hair, even darker than Orlando's, long enough to be edgily fashionable, he was taller than Orlando, not by much but enough to seem to be able to wrap Orlando around him. He didn’t like Mark’s hair, he preferred Orlando's curls, the beautiful rich mahogany colour had always glinted in the sun, curls bouncing off his face as he laughed. He had the most beautiful hair, and Viggo could have spent all of eternity stroking the silken curls. He'd spent hours caressing them when they used to lie in bed together.

Orlando was tactile, he loved textures, fabrics. He was always hugging people, kissing, touching things. He constantly played with his rings, tucking his flyaway hair; he used to love brushing Viggo's hair out of his eyes, nuzzling his scalp. Once he’d even plated it when Viggo was napping in the trailer. Viggo could still remember the uncontrollable sniggers of the set when he’d walked on the set with a pair of plates hanging either side, Sean and Karl had given him hell for that, Billy and Dom had naturally sent Polaroids to every member of cast and crew, Viggo had been ready to throttle them.

He’d almost banned Orlando from touching his hair again after that but, unsurprisingly he hadn’t. Orlando had adored Viggo's hair; he constantly ran his fingers through it, played with it, stroked it. He'd moaned constantly when Viggo had cut it short before the ‘King' premiere…God that had been an amazing night…. No, focus on the present.

He tried to glance at Mark again without being conspicuous: full lips, deep blue eyes, good check bones, his clothes were tailored to fit, covering an obviously well trained body, good confident posture. Yes, Mark was attractive, definitely, but not like Orlando. Mark's was a more traditional attraction; it was easy to see ... more masculine. Orlando wasn't so easy to define, he never had been, maybe that’s what had attracted him to Orlando in the first place. Mark was perhaps in his mid thirties, certainly no older than that (that made Viggo feel so old all of a sudden). He complimented Orlando well. They looked good together. Viggo felt sick.

Orlando felt his heart pound. Not now, please not now! he begged. His prayers went unanswered, of course. They always did where Viggo was concerned. He didn't look at Viggo, keeping his eyes firmly on his shoes. Trying desperately to get his breathing under control without anyone noticing, he slowly lifted his head. Viggo looked gob-smacked, for want of a better word. He obviously didn't realise Orlando had been talking to Liv – didn't he see him?? For some reason, Orlando found that idea comforting, that Viggo hadn't planned this. He felt Mark move closer to his side, a reminder of his presence. He didn't know whether to be relived or frightened. It was taking all his willpower not to turn and run. The silence was becoming excruciatingly painful.

"Are we going to have any introductions?" came… Mark's voice. Hmm, he was British, like Orlando, Viggo could hear a slight Welsh tinge to the voice. Well spoken too, like Orlando. No more Americans for Mr. Bloom then. No doubt he'd had enough of them. The trance was broken and the ex-lovers managed to mentally shake themselves.

"Uh…Mark, this is Viggo Mortensen, Viggo…Mark," Orlando said, trying not to stutter. The introduction confirmed what Viggo had assumed.

"So…you're Orlando's boyfriend?" Viggo managed. Right, be grown up and professional. He could do this, damn it! Did he really expect Orlando to stay single, pinning after him? A part of him wished exactly that. He didn't want anyone else to share Orlando's love, to know him as intimately as he had; he had been Orlando’s first (male) lover, his boyfriend… and wanted to keep it that way. Viggo should have been disgusted with his selfish and rather primitive thoughts, but he couldn't help it.

"Yep, lucky me," Mark replied simply, unable to stop a small, triumphant smirk gracing his face. And you're nothing but his infamous ex, he added with a mental snort. He was finally meeting the brilliant, multi-talented overly perfect Viggo Mortensen. This was Viggo? What a fucking let down!

What the hell had Orlando been thinking? The guy was at least twice his age and looked rather rough around the edges. While perhaps he might have been considered good looking in a rather average, rugged tramp-like kind of way, he couldn't see anything remotely attractive or desirable in the man. Despite Samantha's numerous attempts to explain why so many women found Viggo, or indeed, similar – more mature – men attractive ("the voice, it's like sex. In a voice. Seriously, women love that,") he hoped Sam was in a minority with her thinking. Obviously it had worked for Orlando.

When he’d asked one of the hobbits why Orlando he been with someone twice his age, Elijah had smirked and replied ‘watch Indian Runner’ it was then that Mark decided he did not like Elijah Wood. He knew they’d dated quite a while ago, before Orlando had been famous, on the stupid Lord of the bloody Rings (honestly who cared about the stupid movie?). He knew Viggo had been Orlando's first boyfriend, first everything really, from what he had heard. Just how young Orlando had been back then made Mark curious. What was Viggo? A perverted child snatcher, what the hell had Mortensen been going with someone as young as Orlando, couldn’t he cope with someone of his own age? He didn't know much, if anything, about Orlando's relationship and Viggo and was content to keep it that way.

He had no interest in Viggo, even less now that he'd seen the man. Who, as far as Mark was concerned, left a lot to be desired. He, in Mark's opinion, looked like a retired hippy of some kind. "I wouldn't miss this, I mean it's great to see everyone, y'know… catch up and stuff," Viggo admitted, feeling beyond awkward, but wasn't that how it was supposed to be between ex's? "So…how are you?" Viggo asked. Ugh, this was horrible, stuffing his hands in his pockets, he felt like a disgruntled schoolboy.

"I…uh…I'm OK. Working a lot, the usual" Orlando answered a small self- depreciating smile twitching his lips.

"I actually met Mark on the set of one of my films," Orlando added, not knowing quite where to look.

"Oh really? Good, good. I mean you can meet, um, special people on set. Which one was it? I've kind of lost track I'm afraid. There's been so many, I guess I'm losing my memory."

"You're not that old Vig-go," Orlando scolded gently. Oh God, he almost used Viggo's nickname. He hoped that Mark didn't catch that little slip up since he finished his name properly. He had to get away from here. Things were becoming too friendly, too familiar.

"We met on Kingdom of Heaven where I was the stunt co-ordinator. Orlando being a daredevil, wanted to do a load of stunts by himself. Ridley, worried about his favourite actor, freaked out and made sure I looked after him, which I did," he grinned, pulling Orlando even closer to him. There was an underlying taunt in that, Viggo was sure. He wasn't stupid; he knew a sign of dominance and territorial claiming when he saw one. It didn't help that Orlando leaned into Mark, who again gave a satisfied smirk. He really hated Mark. Cocky, smug bastard. `Look after Orlando'? More like taken care of him when Viggo so callously dumped him.

Fine, Saint fucking Mark rescued Orlando from a broken heart. White Knight Mark. What a load of bull. He knew from Dominic and Elijah that it'd been American Kate Boselworth…or something along those lines anyway, who'd helped Orlando, not Mark, who'd no doubt seen Orlando as a hot piece of ass. Damn, he hated people treating Orlando like a sex object, as if he had no depth or personality. He should really stop giving Mark death glares; Orlando was bound to notice in a moment. Mark stared back at him, his lips twitching in a knowing smirk. Arrogant git…he knew!! God, he was still using Orlando's `Brit swearing'. It seemed so much more civilised than American. "How are you anyway? Any films lined up, or exhibitions and stuff?" Orlando's voice shook him out of his daydream.

"No, I'm taking a break for a while, just living the simple life I guess. I've got a few scripts but I'm not really in the mood for movies right now. Congratulations on the Oscar nomination by the way. Truly well deserved," he added, turning to Orlando, looking at him properly for the first time. Did Orlando blush?

God, he was still shy about his work? Unbelievable. Orlando had given an earth shattering performance that no one could stop talking about. No doubt Orlando was still unable to accept the praise and credit that was being handed out. An Oscar was the least he deserved. Orlando hadn't moved an inch since he saw Viggo. While there wasn't a big physical gap between them, he felt so distant, yet so close to him. This was unbearable, to be so formal and distant with Orlando, knowing what they had once shared, the intimacy, the love.

"Oh, thank you Viggo." Again polite, restrained. "I saw your latest painting exhibition. I liked it, it was so beautiful. You really put your heart and soul into it and it shows, Viggo," Orlando said, the earnest expression of his youth on his face, making Viggo's heart ache. Viggo was surprised.

Why would Orlando see his paintings? He didn't like painting anymore. It reminded him too much of Orlando. He hadn't been happy with his last batch, or the previous one. They'd lacked originality or depth, in his opinion. There was nothing there to display his true feelings. But perhaps that was better. He sometimes wondered if he lost the way to feel when he'd lost Orlando. It was difficult for him to be enthusiastic or inspired by much anymore it seemed. While acting had always come secondary to his art, he hadn’t found a script that interested him, so much was the same and perhaps a small part of him, didn’t want to risk meeting Orlando again if he took up acting, Orli had worked with so many people by now that it would be difficult to know someone had hadn’t met, and therefore been entranced by him and Viggo just couldn’t deal with that anymore. To say he’d made a terrible mistake was the understatement of the millennium, but he’d made it and now had to deal with it, which amounted to avoiding anywhere that could be linked to him.

Although he’d never told him, Orlando had been his inspiration for so much of his work. The boy just cried out to be worshiped; his flawless beauty begged to be captured forever on canvas, to be hung in a golden frame and displayed for the entire world to marvel at. Had Orlando been his immortal muse, in the truest sense of the word? Without him, Viggo found it more difficult to concentrate on his paintings. The smallest thing would bring back memories of him and Orlando together in his studio. For some reason Orlando had always been shy of Viggo painting him, almost as if he was unable to see, or appreciate his own beauty. Usually after making love, Viggo had felt an overwhelming desire to capture Orlando, on camera or by paint. To shout to the world this angel was his. HIS. His angel who was now with Mark. Fuck. He couldn't do this, didn't want to. It was too civil, too sterile. This was becoming painful...no beyond painful.

Any minute now he was going to fling himself on Orlando and beg his forgiveness. Beg him to take him back, admit his terrible mistake for al and sundry to see, a part of him he didn’t care if he humiliated himself, his entire being screamed at him to get Orlando back, at any price...but he couldn't do that, couldn't do that to Orlando. He’d been given his chance and had ruined it; Orlando didn't need, or deserve to have his ex boyfriend harassing him. He just had to walk away, while he still had some semblance of dignity, which was by now hanging by a thread.

"I better get going. There's still a load of people I'd like to see." Viggo cringed at his words. Don't make it sound too desperate to get away, he admonished himself. Orlando looked crushed.

"Right, yeah, you're right. I mean, there are so many people here and stuff. It's really good seeing them again."

"So…uh…how are the Hobbits anyway?" there was a note of sadness in his voice that Orlando couldn’t fail to miss. It seemed the Hobbits had held true to their promise of ignoring Viggo and that saddened him.

He’d never wanted to cause a rift in the Fellowship. Viggo didn’t deserve that; after all he’d moved on so why couldn’t the Hobbits forgive Viggo? For what – ripping your heart out? came a snide voice from the depths of his mind. That unsettled Orlando, he thought he was over it, he should be by now, Viggo was certainly over it…

"They’re all good. Dom and Billy have managed to sell their movie script. It's going to start filming this autumn. So that's really good. Dom's doing some theatre work at the moment. I think he's beginning to prefer that to films. Lij is well…Elijah, where he goes, mayhem follows. I'm sure you know about his movies, I think he’s aiming for the role of a sadist vet last time I heard. Sean's spending some time with the family, taking a career break for a while; he really missed being away from Chris and the girls on his last job. I think they want to add to their family."

"I'm glad they're all doing OK. I'm sure they keep you in line, as much as they can anyway."

"Yeah they've been keeping an eye on me, and probably a surveillance camera too. I think Dom's taken up part time residence at my flat. It's cool though, he's really got this `mother-hen' attitude. So if Mum or Sam nagging me about sweaters and my nutrition intake isn't enough, I get Sblomie as well, he’s becoming horribly domestic" he sighed good-naturedly and before he knew it, he smiled at Viggo. A real, full blown smile. Viggo smiled at the old nickname for Dom and was momentarily dazzled by Orlando’s expression. God he'd missed Orlando so much, not just as a lover but as a person, as a friend and partner. He was one of the most wonderful, and unique people he'd ever, and probably ever would, meet.

"I better start mingling more…I…it was really good to see you Orli" Viggo said suddenly, gazing at Orlando for a moment. Orlando nodded and felt something stick in his throat. Viggo hesitated for a moment, before he gently caressed Orlando's shoulder, it was meant to be a friendly shoulder squeeze but Viggo’s hand unconsciously lingered, seemingly mesmerized by Orlando’s shoulder, the soft feeling beneath his skin and suddenly Viggo wanted to cry. Closing his eyes Orlando tried to push the feelings swelled inside him, it had been so long since he’d felt Viggo touch him for a moment he forget everything, it was just him and Viggo…then all at once, the hand was gone and without another word Viggo walked off.

"Orlando, I think we should go. It's getting late," Mark grated, a strange sound tingeing to his voice. It sounded edgy, hard even. He’d never heard such a harsh edge to his lover’s voice before. Orlando still felt a bit dazed, he hadn’t seen Mark’s jaw set or his hand clench as Viggo touched him, he hadn’t really been aware of anything at that moment. Had Viggo just touched him, or had it all been an imagination of his fevered brain? Mark took his arm in a none too-gentle grip, which quickly brought Orlando crashing back down to earth. Viggo was gone, again and this time he wouldn’t be returning, biting his lip Orlando choked down a sob threatening to emerge.

“Let’s go Orlando, I’ll get your coat” the voice was still hard and grated on Orlando’s nerves. "Couldn't we stay a bit longer? I still want to see the rest of the gang" Orlando said, feeling slightly put out. “You can see the Bean guy anytime, c’mon”

“I can’t see Ian or John anytime, I haven’t seen Miranda or Karl for months Mark, this is my only chance to see them, I’ve got to see them, they’re the Fellowship” he argued, more than a little pissed off by Mark’s pig-headedness. He’d had to endure some of Mark’s less than desirable friends so the least Mark could do was let him have a couple more hours here, honestly it was one of his few free nights and he had to go and ruin it.

"For God sake Orlando! It’s a movie for fuck’s sake, there is no Fellowship, it’s over – done and dusted” he bit out harshly. He’d had more than enough of this place. What the fuck did Mortensen think he was doing touching his boyfriend, and he wasn’t the only one, the Hobbit bastards could barely keep there hands off him, and from the sound of things Ian was even worse. Orlando’s face hardened at that. What right did Mark have to say that, yes the movie was over but these were his friends, he’d gone through experiences with them that he would never do again, the bonds they’d forged together on that had bound them tight, providing a connection which would never be severed. Viggo had always understood that, he understood it because he’d gone through it with Orlando, what the hell did Mark know about Fellowship anyway, the only thing Mark’s ‘friends’ seemed to be held together with was their love of bear and crass put-downs. Mark either didn’t seem to notice or care about Orlando’s change in demeanour.

“Look Orlando. I don't like this. I hated the movies and I don’t like standing around while your hobbit-gang make stupid little in-jokes about the stupid movie. It's boring, I’d never do this to you, I’ve tried OK but now I want to go home, right? I've done my ‘duty’ and I'm tired so if you think we could get going, I'd greatly appreciate it, your highness." Orlando wasn't sure he liked the mocking tone in Mark's voice. Damn it. He didn't want to go yet as they'd only been here a couple of hours.

Did Mark understand he wanted to see his friends, some of whom he might not see for a while. He was such a killjoy. It wasn't as if Orlando wanted to drag Mark out clubbing till all hours anymore. Most nights he was happy to stay in, so why did Mark demand they leave? "Look, I can’t go yet, it’s rude I haven't even said hi to all of the Fellowship yet."

"I think they’ll forgive you babe, you have that affect on people, just bat your lashes.” Orlando shifted uncomfortably at that, was he a flirt? Billy had told him almost the same thing once, but it had sounded very different; Orlando couldn’t fail to ignore the underlying sneer accompanying it. “Anyway, you can send them an e-mail or something”

“You know I’m hopeless at that sort of thing!”

“Use a fucking phone then, even you can use them!”

“Keep your voice down, you’re making a scene” Orlando hissed, fury swelling up in him. What the hell gave Mark the right to act like this? “Whatever, I'm going home, now, Orli. Call a cab or something, I'm taking the car," Mark growled. Orlando noticed a few people nearby were glancing at them, shifting nervously and he had to stop himself from cringing. God, this was embarrassing. Mark was behaving like a spoilt child. There was no way Mark could drive, he’d already had a few drinks and he wasn’t the safest driver at the best of times, add to that, that Mark was seriously pissed off and pissed and pissed off did not make for a safe combination on the road. He might not be impressed with Mark’s behaviour but he sure as hell didn’t want anything to happen to Mark, he’d never forgive himself if Mark had an accident while driving because of his foul mood.

"Fine! You win, just stop making a scene for God sake. I'll tell the Hobbits I'm off, just stay here." Quickly darting over to the Hobbits, he grinned. No use letting them see how annoyed he was. Karl was still with them. Obviously he hadn't been talking to Viggo that long even though it'd felt like an eternity. "Hey guys, I'm taking off. Mark's had a few too many and I'm going to drive him back."

"Awww Orli, you just got here," moaned Elijah, pouting rather beautifully. "It is kind of early, Orli" Karl pointed out, rather surprised. On the phone yesterday, Orlando had been so excited about the reunion, and now he was desperate to leave. Very strange. He hadn’t thought Mark was drunk. He seemed pretty sober when he'd talked to him, rather quiet actually and in Karl’s experience people were often louder when drunk. Hmmmm. Orlando grinned slightly. "Sorry Karl, I'm a bit knackered myself. I've got to be in Japan in a couple of days anyway, so I could do with a bit of rest before I go off again."

"Ahh, these jet setting types, so busy with their lives of luxury they forget the little people," Billy joked. That worried Orli slightly, though he tried not to show it. "Maybe I should buy a blond wig?" suggested Dom. "We'll let you off this time, Prissy Elf, but only cause we're feeling uncharitably kind. I expect a full report on my desk tomorrow. I'll try to get some of the cast round tomorrow for us to meet up since I'm feeling so magnanimous," Dom grinned. "Thanks guys, you're the best."

"All in a day's work, my dearest Legolas, just make sure he gets back safely" smiled Sean, patting Orlando on the back. Glancing at Mark, who looked more than a little impatient, he quickly hugged the Hobbits and Karl before he set off, stopping at the door to let Pete know he was leaving, giving the portly director a quick hug in the process. By this time, Mark was practically shoving Orlando out the door. "At least we know someone's going to get some tonight!" came someone's voice over the crowd. Dom didn't know who'd said it, but he didn't smile, the Hobbits and Karl didn’t seem to find it amusing either.

Viggo frowned at the comment, he didn’t appreciate ‘jokes’ like that, especially not involving Orlando. He was disliking more and more Perfect Mark by the second, Mark had almost shoved Orlando out the door, not even giving him a chance to say a proper goodbye to PJ, Viggo knew how important that was to Orli, he’d never leave like that . He'd seen how Mark had gripped Orlando's arm on the way out, too tight in his opinion, he’d have never held his…no not his…Orlando like that... and Mark had no right to be so rough with Orlando. The same as Viggo had no right to air those thoughts. Paws off Viggo, he's no longer yours.

Elijah was worried. He hadn't liked the look in Mark's eyes. He'd been practically crawling up the walls to get away. By the end of it, he'd looked positively fuming. "Ehh…Mark looked a bit miffed, didn't he?" asked Billy, not really expecting an answer. None of the group looked very happy. Karl sighed.

"Maybe he was just tired or something, y'know? These things can be exhausting if you're not used to them." He sounded as if he was willing it to be the explanation but found it sounding false, even to his own ears.

"More like mega pissed off," Elijah muttered. He'd seen how Mark had practically dragged Orlando outside. Yet another reason for disliking Mark. He didn't care what Dom said ... something wasn't right with Mark. He couldn't explain it but the guy set him on edge. No, he definitely didn't like Mark. For once Dom didn't glare at him. Elijah was right. Something didn't seem right between them, Dom could feel it. He hoped he was wrong.

Comments

[(Anonymous)]

i'm so glad to see this back. hope you wont stop half-way!

[dreamerswings42.livejournal.com]

Ohhh I love this chapter, it gives a lot of back story and let's us know where it all started. I HATE Mark already ;-) If only Vig had followed his instincts and tried to get Orli back, none of this would have happened!

Good job, I can't wait for the next chapter! Thanks