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Bran had received a phone call from the Sussex Police informing him that his twin brother, Landon, was in a major car accident. He drove his white Audi A5, with the muscat brown interior, to the hospital. The police didn’t have much information to share other than the MacLaren that his brother loved so much had been totalled when he wrapped it around a tree. He had been speeding but they weren’t sure if alcohol or drugs were factors in the crash. Thankfully no one else was hurt but Bran couldn’t relax until he knew that his twin brother would be okay as well.
He was still at least 15 minutes away from the hospital when he decided to call Nikolai, his situation-ship? Boyfriend? He wasn’t sure what they were as they had never really labeled their relationship. They had been seeing each other for several months now and while they’ve kept their relationship private, Bran knew he was getting too attached. He just felt happy, or as close to happy as he could get, when he was with Nikolai.
“Hi Baby! I was just thinking about you.” Nikolai answered. Bran, much to his embarrassment, immediately started crying. “Bran? Baby, what’s wrong? Are you hurt? Where are you?”
Bran sniffled and tried to assure Nikolai that he was okay. “I’m okay, Niko. Sorry.”
“Baby, you don’t have to be sorry. Talk to me, what’s going on?”
“I’m headed to the hospital. Lan was in a major car accident. He’s hurt but they couldn’t tell me anything else.”
Nikolai said in a calm voice, “Lotus Flower, I’m sure your brother will be okay. I need you to focus on driving, alright? Or pull over and I’ll come get you. I can be there in just a few minutes.”
Bran shook his head, though Niko couldn’t see him, and replied, “Don’t worry, Niko, I’m okay to drive. I’m almost there.”
“I’ll stay on the line with you until you get there.”
“Actually, I have to call Mia. I’ll call you back as soon as I can.”
Niko argued, “No, Baby. Don’t worry about her. You can tell her once you get to the hospital.”
“Niko,” Bran said softly, “If something happened to you, I’d want to know right away.”
“Baby, Fuck.” Niko swore, his tone indicated that he knew Bran was right. He knew how he would feel if - God forbid - Bran was in the hospital. He’d want to be the first fuckin’ call. “Alright, alright. Call her!”
As soon as the call disconnected, Niko hopped on his Harley which was parked in front of the Heathen’s mansion and headed to the hospital. While Niko couldn’t careless about Landon fuckin’ King, he definitely cared about the superior twin, Brandon King. Niko had wooed (read pestered) Bran for weeks until he finally gave into Niko’s charms. They’ve been together for months, although none of their friends or families knew anything about their relationship. It had taken awhile but they had found a routine that worked for them - for the most part. Every morning, Niko would wake up at the ass fuckin’ crack of dawn to run with Bran and in the evenings, they would spend several hours at their penthouse. Alright, it wasn’t their penthouse as much as it was Niko’s but it felt like theirs. They spent most evenings together eating, watching movies, and fucking - so, so much fucking! - at the penthouse. It was their little hideaway from the rest of the world and all Niko wanted was to keep Bran locked in the penthouse forever.
Nikolai strolled into the waiting room of the Royal Sussex County Hospital Emergency Room and immediately searched for his Lotus Flower. He scanned the room and found Bran tucked in the corner on a small couch, he was hunched over with his elbows braced on his knees and his face was hiding behind his hands. Niko immediately dropped to his knees in front of Bran and gently called, “Baby?”
Bran’s head jerked up when he heard Niko’s deep voice and he immediately wrapped his arms around Niko. Once again, his emotions got the better of him and he began crying with his face buried in Niko’s neck. God, what the hell was wrong with him? This is the second time in less than an hour that he has lost all control of himself at the sound of Niko’s voice.
Niko wrapped Bran in his strong arms, holding him tightly against his torso. Fuck, he loved having his Lotus Flower in his arms. Everything just felt so fuckin’ right when he was with Bran. No matter what they were doing - fucking in every room of the penthouse, eating breakfast, running, watching those stupid Agatha Christie murder shows, or even just doing the fuckin’ dishes - every moment Niko was able to spend with Bran felt so fuckin’ good. “Hey, Lotus Flower. Shhh, Baby, don’t cry. Please don’t cry. Everything’s going to be okay.”
Niko continued whispering words of assurance into his ear until the tears stopped falling from his cheeks. Bran couldn’t believe Niko was actually here. When he called Niko, he had wanted the comfort only Niko could offer. Of course, he would’ve wanted him to be with Bran in person but he knew (or he thought, anyway) that it wouldn’t be possible. No one knew about them and they weren’t exactly in a relationship - although they were exclusive. Bran was sure that the reason Niko suggested they be exclusive was because he didn’t want to share. He was an attention whore and for now at least, he wanted Bran’s attention. Since Bran didn’t want to share Niko with anyone else, he readily agreed. When it was done, it was done. That’s what they agreed on at the start and Bran had to admit, he was surprised they had lasted this long. He was certainly happy that they lasted this long but the longer they were together, the harder it would be when it was over.
Fuck, Bran would not go down that road right now. He was already an emotional wreck and he did not want to think about that right now. He needed to get his emotions under control, not make them worse thinking about a future that he wasn’t going to have.
Bran wasn’t sure how much time had passed before he pulled away from Niko. He didn’t go far, just loosened his hold and shifted until he could look at Niko’s beautiful face. Fuck, this man was gorgeous. “You’re here?” Bran asked though he was clearly stating the obvious.
“Of course I am, Baby. Where else would I be?” Niko answered before he pressed his lips to Bran’s cheek in a quick kiss. Fuck, he really wanted to kiss his beautiful lips but Niko had to remember where they were. “You okay, Baby? What did the doctors say?”
Bran unconsciously stroked fingers into Niko’s dark shoulder length hair and answered, “I don’t know much. All they told me was that he was in surgery for a fractured femur.”
Niko nodded, “I’m sure they’ll have an update soon. Do you need anything?”
“No, thank you. Mia couldn’t sit around waiting so she went to find us some coffee.” Bran huffed a quiet laugh, “She couldn’t keep still.”
Niko gave Bran a semi-devious smile and replied, “Stillness doesn’t exactly run in the family, Lotus Flower.”
With the reminder of Mia, Bran knew Niko couldn’t stay long. Bran hugged Niko again and said quietly. “I’m so glad you’re here but you should go. I’ll be okay.”
Niko’s body went stiff and he tightened his hold on Bran. “I’m not going anywhere, Baby.” Nothing could make Niko leave his Lotus Flower right now. Bran needed him whether he would admit it or not.
When Bran called Niko earlier, he had instantly decided he was going to kill whoever the fuck made his Baby cry. Once Bran had calmed down enough to explain that his brother was in a car accident, Niko calmed down a little. He didn’t give a fuck about Landon King, in fact he hated the bastard. But, he was Bran’s twin brother so he had to be cool about it. He wouldn’t let Bran or his sister, Mia, go through this alone. He’d deal with the consequences later.
Niko’s baby sister Mia was currently degrading herself by dating the shittier King twin. Of all the fuckin’ people on this damn island, in the fuckin’ United Kingdom, Mia had to pick that arrogrant piece of shit. Honestly, it made Niko sick to his stomach but after numerous arguments with Mia (and Lotus Flower), he had no choice but to let it go. Mia refused to see what a selfish prick Landon was and Bran wasn’t happy with his behavior toward his twin brother.
Bran was about to argue with Niko. He was about to remind him that people couldn’t see them together. But, Bran didn’t want Niko to go. He needed Niko’s strength to make it through this. It was amazing how much better Bran felt just having Niko close to him. So instead, he squeezed Niko a little tighter and whispered, “Thank you, Niko.” He patted the seat next to him on the small couch made for two, “Come sit.”
Niko immediately stood up and plopped himself down next to Bran. He was relieved (and surprised!) that Bran hadn’t argued with him. Niko wouldn’t have given in but he also didn’t want to put any additional stress on his Lotus Flower. Niko shifted closer to Bran and was about to wrap his arms around Bran’s shoulder when he spotted a tiny blonde girl dressed entirely in black headed their way. Mia’s face was blotchy and red, clearly she had been crying. Damn it, he really hated seeing his baby sisters cry. When Mia was just a few feet away, Niko stood up and opened his arms for a hug. “Okay, Mia?”
She nodded before stepping back and handing a cup to Bran. Niko caught her glance at the couch he had been sitting on before she took a seat in the chair on the other side of Bran. Niko sat back down next to Bran and did his best to keep his hands to himself. It wasn’t long before Niko’s cousin Killian and his girlfriend, Glyndon, walked into the waiting room. Bran immediately stood up and hugged his sister, “It’ll be okay, Glyn.” Bran said quietly, hoping to offer her comfort.
When they let go, Mia hugged Glyn as well. Killian didn’t say anything, as usual, he simply nodded in their direction. Thankfully, Mia offered Glyn her seat so she could sit next to her brother because there was no way in hell Niko was going to give up his seat. He was struggling enough with keeping himself from touching his Lotus Flower, he wasn’t going to move away so he couldn’t even feel his warmth or smell the citrusy scent that belonged just to Bran. Absolutely fucking not.
The five of them sat in the ER waiting for an hour before Bran started pulling at the hair on his nape. Niko shifted in his seat, pressing his side against Bran hoping that would get him to stop. When that didn’t work, Niko quietly told Bran to stop but he didn’t seem to hear him, probably too lost in his thoughts. With a heavy sigh, Niko reached up and gently pulled Bran’s hand away from his head. Bran did look at him then, they shared a moment of communicating with just their eyes. God Niko, wanted to hold onto his hand so badly but he knew he had to let go. Reluctantly, and only after he squeezed Bran’s hand gently did he release it.
Bran sighed, he hadn’t realized he’d been pulling at his hair again until Niko pulled his hand away. He was just so fuckin’ frustrated with the lack of communication! He knew they were busy but it had been over two hours without a single word about his brother. Bran leaned back against the chair and crossed his arms against his chest. “I wish they would just tell us something! Anything!”
Niko immediately stood up and walked toward the nurses’ station. “Niko?” Bran called out in confusion. Was he mad that Bran had been pulling his hair again? He knew it annoyed Niko when Bran pulled his hair, it annoyed him that Bran would hurt himself, but walking away without a word was definitely an overreaction, especially at a time like this.
“I’ll be right back.” Niko answered, effectively stopping Bran’s spiraling thoughts. If Bran wanted an update, Niko would get him an update. Whether that meant charming or threatening someone, he would make it happen. There was very little that he wouldn’t do for his Lotus Flower and in fact, he couldn’t think of anything at the moment. Whatever his Baby wanted, his Baby would get.
“Hi. I need an update on Landon King. He was brought in two hours ago and no one has told us anything.”
“Sorry, what was the patient’s name?” She asked before she even looked away from the computer. When her eyes finally landed on him, they filled with want. Charm it is, he thought to himself.
Niko plastered on a smile and repeated, “Landon King. He was in a car accident.”
Her green eyes moved back to the screen though she stole glances at him every few seconds, “I’m sorry, Mr. ?”
“You can call me Nikolai.” He answered, though he felt a yucky feeling in the pit of his stomach. He didn’t like having to flirt with someone when Bran was the only person who mattered to him but he needed answers and this seemed to be the best way to get it.
“Nikolai,” she said with a smile, “I’m sorry, our system isn’t showing an update yet.”
Niko shifted, crossing his heavily muscled arms on the counter, showing off the tattoos which covered both of his arms. He leaned over the counter, pushing himself further into her space. He watched her eyes darken with lust as she leaned toward him in return. “Couldn’t you maybe go back there and see what’s going on?” He asked with a tilt of his head and a flirtatious smile on his face.
She stood up and immediately answered, “Oh yes, of course. I’ll be right back.”
He nodded his head in the direction of the waiting room and said, “I’ll be waiting for you.” Her face lit up at his choice of words before she scurried off to do his bidding. When he turned back to the waiting room, Bran looked about ready to murder him. His scowling face was turning a pretty shade of red and his fists were clenching and unclenching where they rested on his knees. Oh, Lotus Flower was jealous. Niko couldn’t help the giddy feeling at Bran’s reaction. It made him feel wanted and he loved when his little Prince Charming staked his claim - even if it would only happen once they were behind closed doors.
With a little extra swagger, Niko returned to his seat next to Bran. Niko felt Bran’s glare on him as he moved past him. Silly, Lotus Flower. Hasn’t he figured it out yet? He was the only one Niko wanted. “She went to find out what’s going on.” He commented as if he didn’t realize how mad Bran was. Oh, he was definitely jealous so Niko simply smiled, loving the attention.
“Thank you, Niko.” Glyn said, while Mia signed her thanks to him as well.
Killian grumbled, “His name is Nikolai.” Glyn simply rolled her eyes at her boyfriend who apparently hated the fact that she used the shortened version of his name.
“You’re welcome. Anything I can do to help.” Niko replied sincerely. Bran still hadn’t stopped glaring at him but Niko didn’t mind so much, he was just happy he had his undivided attention.
A few minutes later, the blonde nurse returned. Niko noticed that she had pulled her long blonde hair out of the ponytail she had been sporting when he first approached her. She was also wearing lipstick in a soft pink color. Oh, this just keeps getting better and better. If Niko noticed the extra effort she had gone through for him, there was no way Bran didn’t notice as well. He would no doubt hate this.
“Nikolai?” The nurse called out, in a much softer voice than earlier, as she approached. He glanced at Bran for just a moment, thrilled to see his glaring had moved from Niko to the blonde. Nikolai stood up, knowing what his 6’5” muscular body looked like and what it would undoubtedly do to the nurse (and anyone else that was paying attention to him.) He didn’t say anything, just stepped forward and cocked an eyebrow, his in his front pockets, waiting for her to say something that would settle his Lotus Flower’s worries. She gave him a flirtatious smile as she tucked her blonde hair behind one ear, green eyes sparkling, “Um, hi.”
“Hi,” he replied, “Do you have an update for me?”
She nodded, “Yes, Mr. King -”
Nikolai cut her off and corrected, “Landon.” Saying ‘Mr. King’ could mean Bran and Niko couldn’t bear to even think of his Baby in the hospital.
“Right, sorry, Nikolai.” she said with a small, embarrassed giggle.
Jesus fucking Christ. Was this blonde bimbo seriously flirting with Niko? Right in front of him? As if he didn’t fuckin’ exist? Her behavior was absolutely unacceptable - she was unprofessional and he had half a mind to ask for her supervisor. How dare she blatantly flirt with Niko while Landon was in the hospital, possibly fighting for his life! Did she really think Bran wouldn’t notice that she let her ashy blonde, split-end ridden hair down and slapped lipstick on? Fuck no. Bran couldn’t take it anymore so he stood up and forcefully pushed himself between Niko and the slut.
“Enough with the flirting!” Brandon demanded in a voice Niko had never heard before. “We have been waiting for two hours and I want an update on my brother now!”
Oh fuck. Kolya definitely loved that voice. Niko shuffled a few inches forward until his entire torso was pressed to Bran’s back. He slipped his hand under Bran’s jacket and gripped his hip, hoping his touch would remind him that Niko belonged to him, hoping his touch would calm his obviously frayed nerves.
The nurse went pale as she quickly composed herself. “I apologize, sir. Mr. Landon King suffered a fractured femur which they just finished repairing. He has two broken ribs and a concussion. His leg has been plastered but he’ll need to stay at least a couple of nights to monitor the concussion.”
“His hands? Have they been hurt in any way?”
She shook her head, “No, sir. There’s been no report of any damage to his hands.”
Bran sighed and leaned further back against Niko. Thank God, Lan hadn’t hurt his hands. At least his art, his career, his future was safe.
Glyn asked, “When can we see him?”
The nurse turned her attention to the youngest King, “Sorry, visitors will be restricted to immediate family only.”
Killian stood up, wrapping an arm around Glyn’s waist and growled, “She’s his sister! When can she go in?”
“Oh, I’m sorry I didn’t realize. She can go in right now but he is sedated and he likely won’t wake up until tomorrow.”
Bran remained pressed against Niko’s strong body, enjoying the tight grip Niko’s hand on his waist. He could finally relax knowing his brother would recover and his career wouldn’t be affected. “Glyn, why don’t you and Mia go first? I’ll call Mom and Dad to let them know what happened.”
Mia stood up and pressed a quick kiss to Bran’s cheek before she reached for Glyn’s hand and they followed the nurse. Niko squeezed Bran’s hip a little tighter, reminding him which Sokolov sibling he belonged to. Niko leaned his head down. “It’s going to be okay, Baby.” He whispered, “Call your parents, I’ll be right here.”
Bran nodded although he was very reluctant to step away from Niko. One, he didn’t want to lose Niko’s comforting touch and two, he didn’t want that fuckin’ nurse trying to talk to his Niko again. Bran tilted his head to look up at Niko and narrowed his eyes. “Behave, Niko.” He warned before he pulled his phone out of his pocket and dialed his Dad’s number.
Fuck, Niko loved it when Bran got possessive of him. Niko watched as Bran walked out of the waiting room with the phone held to his ear. God, he was absolutely gorgeous. Just a few inches shorter than Niko, Bran had the strong muscular body of an athlete. His brown hair was styled like Prince Charming as usual although it was messier since he had been pulling at it for the last couple of hours. Niko kept his eyes on Bran even as he sat back down on the couch.
It was quiet for several long minutes before Killian said, “So, Brandon, huh?”
Niko sighed and hesitated to look away from his Lotus Flower for even a few seconds. Obviously, Kil had observed their behavior over the last couple of hours. He didn’t want to lie about his relationship and he’s honestly been dying to tell someone. “Yeah, but we’re keeping things quiet.” The ‘so shut the hell up’ went unsaid.
Killian snorted, “Maybe you were keeping it quiet but you’re not anymore.”
“He’s not ready to come out.” Niko answered quietly.
“And you’re okay with going back in the closet for him?” Kil asked in a curious tone.
Niko shrugged, “Sure, why not?” He would do anything for Bran, anything to make him happy, anything to keep him.
Killian sighed, “Remember, what Jeremy told you when we were younger. You deserve to be loved in the light, Niko.”
Niko sighed heavily but remained quiet. He didn’t know how to respond. Of course, it hurt that Bran wanted to hide him away. Of course, he wanted everyone to know that Bran belonged to Niko and Niko belonged to Bran. But he couldn’t force Bran to come out of the closet. He couldn’t force Bran into a relationship with him. Niko already knew that he didn’t want to be with anyone else. He wanted Bran, only Bran, and if that meant going back into the closet then so be it. He just hoped it wouldn’t be forever. He hoped that one day, and one day soon, Bran would be comfortable with his sexuality and more importantly announce their relationship.
Bran walked in and felt a slight tension in the air. Niko seemed to be lost in his thoughts. Bran approached, stepping into the v of Niko’s widespread legs. “Niko? You okay?”
Niko was pulled out of his head by Bran’s voice and focused his attention on his Lotus Flower. He knew he had said something but he wasn’t sure what. “Bran?”
Bran repeated becoming more concerned, “Are you okay? What happened?”
Niko shook his head and answered, “Nothing happened, I’m fine.”
Bran eyed him for a long moment not really believing his words but chose to let it go for now. Clearly, Niko didn’t want to talk right now and Bran was too frayed to force the issue. “My parents are flying in. They should be here tomorrow morning.”
Niko nodded, “Good. You feeling better?”
Bran sat down on the couch pressing his forehead against Niko’s neck, taking comfort in his bergamot and mint scent. He felt Niko’s hand running smooth circles over his back. “Yeah, I’m just glad he’s going to be okay and his hands haven’t been hurt.”
Bran trailed his right hand from Niko’s thigh to the side of his neck and tilted his head to look at him. “Thank you for being here.”
Niko breathed out heavily. Fuck, he was crazy about this man. “Of course, Lotus Flower.”
Bran moved slightly forward and asked one more time. “You sure you’re okay, Niko?”
Niko nodded and said quietly, “Don’t worry about me, Baby.”
Bran sighed and gently scratched the back of Niko’s neck. “You know I do. You can talk to me.”
Niko closed his eyes for a moment wishing he could just hide away with his Lotus Flower but today wasn’t about him or even their relationship. Right now, all that mattered was Bran and his family, specifically his twin brother. Even if he was a mother fuckin’ asshole!
Bran tilted his head further and moved even closer to Niko. Kisses seemed to be the best currency when it came to Niko and he would use it to get what he wanted. Right now, what he wanted was for Niko to tell him what was bothering him.
Niko watched as Bran moved closer and closer giving him those fuckin’ bedroom eyes. He was equal parts excited and terrified. Excited because HOLY SHIT, Lotus Flower was going to kiss him in public. Terrified because he didn’t want a moment of regret. He didn’t want this to happen because he was stressed out and worried about fuckin’ Landon.
Before their lips met, someone cleared their throat loudly. Bran immediately released Niko and turned around. The look on his face was exactly what Niko had been afraid of, he looked like a deer caught in headlights. Did he forget where they were? Or did he not care for just a moment?
Killian, Satan’s fuckin’ heir, said in his normal monotone voice, “Maybe you should go check on Landon.”
Niko glared at his cousin from his spot behind Bran. This cock blocking mother fucker! Who fuckin’ cared about Landon, the little bitch?! Niko and Bran were having a very important conversation! Damn it.
Bran immediately stood up, “Right of course.” He went to the nurses station where a different nurse led him through the ER door. He didn’t look back for even a second. Fuck.
“What the fuck, Kil?”
“If you’re trying to keep it quiet, maybe don’t cuddle or make out in public!”
Niko growled. “I hate you.”
Kil watched his cousin for a long moment before he said, “You’re in too deep, Niko.” Kil and Niko had always been close growing up. Their moms are twin sisters and they were the same age. In the 20 years that Killian and Nikolai had spent in each other’s pocket, he had never known Nikolai to care about any of his fucks. Hell, he had never seen him look at anyone the way he looked at Brandon King. Honestly, Kil didn’t think Niko was even capable of such deep feelings.
Niko slouched further into his seat and crossed his arms over his chest. “What? You don’t like him? He was the only one that supported your relationship with Glyn or did you forget that?”
Kil cocked his head to his side. “I didn’t forget anything. I appreciate that he supported Glyn and I know how much he means to her. But none of that has anything to do with his relationship with you. Just because he’s not a bad guy, doesn’t mean he’s good for you, Niko. You don’t lie about shit. You don’t hide anything about yourself. But here you are, lying, hiding, and sneaking around. And for what? Are you even happy?”
“Of course, I’m happy. You think I’d be with someone who doesn’t make me happy? Fuck no.”
“Have you told your Dad about Brandon?”
The question was definitely a blow to Niko’s chest. Damn it, Kil. Yes, he had told his Dad about Bran to a point. He hadn’t specifically mentioned Bran by name but he did tell his Dad that he was seeing someone. And okay, he does tell his Dad everything. He’s truly Niko’s best friend and always has Niko’s back no matter what dumb ass shit he gets himself into, Niko can always count on his Dad.
“I told him someone existed.” Niko admitted begrudgingly.
It stayed quiet for a long time before Kil moved closer to Niko. He squeezed his shoulder but remained quiet as there was nothing left to say.
🪷
When Bran entered the hospital room, he found Mia had curled her tiny body against a sleeping Landon. Glyn had been sitting on the other side of Lan’s bed, holding his hand, until Bran walked in. She stood up to allow Bran space to see his twin brother. As she passed, Bran squeezed Glyn’s shoulder in thanks. He brushed his hand through his brother’s hair before resting it over his chest. Even though Bran and Lan didn’t really get along he still hated to see his brother lying in a hospital bed. There were several shallow cuts on his face that likely wouldn’t scar.
Mia slipped his hand over Bran’s and squeezed. He looked away from Lan to the woman who had brought his brother to his knees, “You okay, Mia?”
Mia nodded with a soft smile before she signed, Are you okay?
Since Glyn perched herself at the bottom of Lan’s bed, Bran took the chair next to Lan’s bed. The three of them sat in relative silence for nearly an hour before Glyn asked quietly, “So, Niko, huh?”
Bran felt his face heat up. Shit, what was he supposed to say? He didn’t want to lie to his sister and he really didn’t want to deny Niko and these feelings that just kept getting stronger and stronger.
“It’s okay, Bran. Do you like him?”
Bran sighed heavily but nodded. “I think I’m falling in love with him.” Bran had never been in love before. Hell, he had never even experienced romantic feelings for someone. But whatever he was feeling for Niko, felt important. It felt life changing.
Mia’s eyes went wide with a big smile on her face, You’re going to be my brother-in-law.
“Pretty sure, I was going to be your brother-in-law either way.” Bran laughed loudly before remembering where they were. He turned his gaze to Landon’s sleeping form and commented, “Lan is going to hate this.”
“Bran, it is your life not Lan’s. You found someone that makes you happy, Lan will just have to deal with it. Besides, he hates Killian but you don’t see me giving him up.”
As pretty as Glyn’s words were, Bran knew that Lan would never accept Niko as he begrudgingly did with Killian. Yes, Glyn was their sister but they didn’t have the same relationship. Lan and Bran were twins, no matter how different they were from one another, they shared a bond that no one else understood. Besides, even though they haven’t been close for a long time Bran still hoped that one day they could be close again. How could that happen if Niko was in the picture?
“Please don’t say anything to Lan yet. Or anyone else.”
Mia signed, How long have you and Niko been together?
“A few months.” He admitted.
“Months? How have you been able to keep it a secret for so long?”
Bran shrugged, “There’s nothing to say really. It’s not serious.”
You said you’re falling in love with him. That’s serious.
“We don’t talk about our relationship or whatever you want to call it. Yes, I’m falling in love with him but I don’t know how he feels about me. You saw him flirting with the damn nurse!”
Glyn and Mia rolled their eyes. “Bran! He wasn’t flirting with her. He was just using his charm to get what he wanted, which was information for you, Bran!”
Bran huffed in annoyance. “Well, I still don’t know if he’s serious about me.”
“Niko has been here for hours! It definitely is not because he’s worried about Landon. He’s here for you! How much more serious do you want him to be?”
Bran didn’t have an answer so he stayed quiet. Thankfully, the girls seemed to take a hint and remained quiet as well. It wasn’t until hours later that Glyn stood up and said, “It’s getting late. I’m going to go home but I’ll pick up Mom and Dad from the airport in the morning.”
Mia asked Are you going to stay with him tonight?
Bran shook his head, “He would probably prefer you. Are you okay with that? I don’t want him to be alone.”
Mia nodded her head vigorously, clearly she wanted to stay with Lan. Bran couldn’t blame her, if Niko was in the hospital, he’d want to stay too. And if Bran was in the hospital, he knew without a doubt that he would want Niko with him. What would Niko want? Bran wondered. Would he want Bran to stay with him? Would he insist on being by Bran’s side if their roles were reversed?
“I’ll bring you a bag of clothes and toiletries tomorrow morning. Send me a list of what I should pick up.”
She smiled in thanks and watched as the King siblings walked out the door. Mia raised her hand and slid her fingers through Lan’s hair before she leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss to his lips.
🪷
When the King siblings walked into the waiting room, Nikolai and Killian immediately stood up. Bran couldn't help but feel jealous as he watched Glyn practically fall into her boyfriend’s arms. He swallowed hard, feeling a slight ache in his chest. Damn it, why did everything have to be so complicated between him and Niko? For the first time in his life, Bran wanted a relationship - a real relationship - and he wanted it with Niko. He just wished he could figure out how to make it happen. He knew the biggest problem was himself. He needed to stop standing in his own fucking way. He needed to stop self-sabotaging himself. He just didn’t know how to fuckin’ stop.
When Bran’s eyes landed on Niko, his heart skipped a fuckin’ beat. Niko was gorgeous, it was just a fact of life. Bran knew it, Niko knew it, the whole fuckin’ world knew it. Even though he had been sitting here for hours on end and his pretty midnight blue eyes looked tired, he was still handsome as ever.
Niko nervously held out his hand to Bran, hoping that he would take it, hoping he wouldn’t reject him. It was a sweet relief when Bran didn’t hesitate, immediately taking Niko’s hand into his and practically falling against Niko’s chest. It settled the loud thoughts he had been having since his conversation with Kil. “You okay, Baby?” He asked softly, voice deep and low.
Bran pressed his face against Niko’s chest and breathed him in for a long minute. Now that he was with Niko again, he felt some of the tension he had been feeling drain away. “Better now.” He answered, “I didn’t expect you to wait though.”
Niko frowned, “I wasn’t going to leave you here alone, Lotus Flower.”
Bran pressed a kiss to Niko’s left peck, where his heart beat, under his white t-shirt. “Can we go home, please?”
Niko squeezed the hand he had been holding and replied, “Of course, Baby.” They walked out hand-in-hand, “You want to leave your car here? It’ll be safe overnight.”
Bran nodded, he really didn’t want to drive right now and more importantly he didn’t want to be away from Niko. Somehow the most chaotic man he had ever met became the calm to Bran’s storm. When Bran was stressed, when his mind wandered too far, when the ink began circling him - Niko was there to protect him. Niko’s touch, his voice, the look in his eyes - everything about him held Bran together. He climbed up onto the back of Niko’s Harley, wrapped his arms around his waist, and rested his cheek on Niko’s shoulder. Before taking off into the night, Niko asked “You hungry, Baby?”
Bran wasn’t particularly hungry but it was late and he knew Niko hadn’t eaten so he replied, “Let’s just order pizza when we get home.”
🪷
Niko led Bran into their en suite and immediately lifted him up to sit on the counter. He pressed a kiss to the tip of Bran’s nose, “Stay here, Baby.” Bran watched Niko fill the tub with water and add the bath salts and lavender bubble bath he had purchased. Once he was finished, he turned back to Bran and pulled the blue polo shirt he was wearing off. When he finished unbuckling his belt, Bran slid off the counter so Niko could pull down his khaki trousers and black boxer briefs. “Come on, Baby, a bath will help.” Bran sank into the hot water and closed his eyes. “I’ll be back soon, Lotus Flower.” Niko said with a kiss to his forehead.
Bran’s eyes shot open, eyebrows furrowed. “Aren’t you coming in with me?”
Niko shook his head, “Not this time, Baby. You relax. I’m going to order dinner.”
Bran sighed but did as Niko asked, he closed his eyes and sank further into the bath. Bran wasn’t sure how much time had passed when he felt Niko’s fingers in his hair. “Baby, come on. The food’s here.”
Bran stayed quiet but he happily accepted Niko’s offered hand. Once he was standing in the tub, Niko rinsed the bubbles from his skin before wrapping him in a large, fluffy towel. “We’ll eat and then go to bed, Lotus Flower.”
After a quick dinner, Niko led Bran to their large bed. “Lay down ass up, Lotus Flower.” Minutes later, Niko climbed onto the bed and straddled Bran’s ass. He poured the bergamot and citrus massage oil he had just ordered onto his hands before he began massaging Bran’s back.
“Oh God, Niko.” Bran moaned, immediately waking Kolya up.
Not now, Kolya, we’re taking care of Bran and that’s it, Niko thought to himself. “Yeah, Baby, does that feel good?”
“So good, Niko. Thank you, Baby.”
Niko felt a shiver run up his spine at the endearment Bran used since it was so rare. “Just relax, Lotus Flower. I’ll take care of you.”
Niko spent well over an hour massaging his Lotus Flower from head to toe. Bran had been dozing off and on for most of the massage so he must have done something right. It was the first time Niko had ever tried to massage someone and he enjoyed himself even if Kolya was trying to kill him. When he was finished, his hands were a bit sore but Bran was like puddy in their bed.
Niko took a quick shower where he stroked Kolya fast and hard. He had been hard for so fuckin’ long, it didn’t take him long before he was cumming on his hand and the shower floor. He washed himself quickly and forced himself to blow dry his hair since Bran hated it when he went to sleep with wet hair.
When Niko was finally able to join Bran in their king sized bed, he cuddled behind him wrapping his arm around Bran’s waist. It didn’t take long before Niko fell asleep.
The next morning, Niko woke up to soft kisses being pressed against chest and torso. He stretched with a groan, “Morning, Baby.”
Bran only hummed in response, choosing to focus on making Niko feel good. God, Niko was so damn good to him last night. Honestly, Niko’s always good to him but last night was special. Whether it was coming to the hospital to support Bran, drawing him a bath, or giving him the best massage he’s ever felt in his life, Niko knew exactly what he needed.
Maybe Bran wasn’t brave enough to say it out loud but he could show Niko how important he was. How much Bran wanted him in his life, how much he needed him in his life. Bran was falling in love with Niko, even if he wasn’t able to put his feelings into words he hoped Niko would be able to feel it. He’d be able to feel how important he was, how much he was adored.
Bran had shifted further down the bed until he was able to take Niko’s large, pierced cock into his mouth. He didn’t want to be quick or rough today. Bran held Niko’s cock in his hand while he kissed, licked, and sucked. Niko didn’t appear to mind that he was taking his time, he simply slid his fingers into Bran’s hair guiding him gently. His beautiful dark eyes never left Bran’s face. It was as if both men knew something was changing between them at this moment. Bran pulled away and asked, “Will you make love to me, Niko?”
Niko swallowed hard. He had never made love to anyone before. He has fucked, and fucked well, hundreds of times before but he had never truly made love to anyone. He had never wanted to until this moment, until this person, until his Lotus Flower. Niko felt the heaviness of the moment, there was something changing. He could only hope this meant that Bran was ready to admit how he felt about Niko, to admit that they belonged together regardless of what anyone else thought.
“Come here, Lotus Flower.” Bran crawled up Niko’s strong body, their eyes never leaving one another. Niko had pulled Bran down until they were chest to chest before he pressed their lips together in a series of kisses that got more intense the longer their tongues danced together. Niko wrapped his arms tightly around him before he sat up with Bran sitting on his lap. He reached into the nightstand and pulled out the lube, spending long minutes prepping Bran to take Kolya deep inside himself. While he fingered Bran open, his mouth never left Bran’s skin. He traced kisses over his face, neck, and chest.
Once Bran was ready for him, he spoke quietly, “Tell me what you want, Lotus Flower.”
“I want you, Baby.”
“You have me,” Niko promised, gently cupping Bran’s face between his hands and guiding him closer for a kiss. Centimeters before their lips met, Niko stared deep into Bran’s beautiful eyes and repeated, “You have me.” Niko slid his tongue into Bran’s mouth, tasting him again. He was met with a high and breath sound, clearly Bran was in desperate need for Niko. “God, you're so sweet for me.”
Bran moaned, “Just for you, Niko, only for you.” He shifted until he was cradled between Bran’s legs and their fingers were entwined together above his head. On the first thrust, Bran’s cock shot a large amount of cum on his own belly. “Did you? Holy shit, did you just cum?”
Bran nodded, the shock clear in his eyes, “Please, please, don’t stop.”
“Never, Baby. God, you feel amazing.” Niko captured Bran’s lips with his own, moaning into his mouth. He moved his hips slowly, never wanting this to end. They rocked together, wrapped in each other’s love. Bran’s hands were roaming all over Niko’s skin, while his pretty mouth was sucking hickies onto his neck and chest. “Baby, I’m close.” Niko whispered, burying his face in Bran’s neck, inhaling the citrus scent that he loved so much.
“Please Niko, please Baby. Fill me up! Want to feel you deep inside me, want to feel you for days.”
Niko roared as his orgasm began, biting into Bran’s shoulder. All he could think about was how much he wanted to mark Bran as his forever. Niko heard a faint scream but was distracted by what had to be the tightest grip he’d ever felt on his cock, on his body. As Kolya began softening, Niko pressed gentle kisses to the teeth marks he left on Bran’s shoulder. “Sorry Baby, never meant to hurt you.” Niko apologized. It wasn’t like this was the first time he had bitten Bran and their normal routine was fuckin’ rough so he knew what Bran could handle. No, Niko apologized because hurting Bran even if he liked it, was not okay right now. Right now, Niko was making love to Bran and didn’t want him to feel even a moment of pain. “Tell me your mine, Lotus Flower.”
Bran closed his eyes for a few seconds with a smile on his lips. When he opened his eyes again, he confirmed, “I am yours, Nikolai. Always.”
They stayed wrapped together for a while more before Niko said, “We have to clean up, Baby.”
Bran groaned, not wanting to get out of bed, “Are you absolutely sure?”
Niko laughed quietly, “Yes, Lotus Flower. We need to get to the hospital to see Lan and your parents.”
Bran hated to admit it but he had sort of forgotten about Landon’s accident. It’s not that he had forgotten it exactly but he sort of pushed it from his mind once they left the hospital. Niko was so good at taking care of him that the stress he felt yesterday just seemed to fade away.
“Are you coming with me?” Bran asked in surprise. Why was he surprised? He had no idea, he really should’ve known better. Niko had proven himself to Bran time and time again. Bran really needed to stop doubting him.
“Of course I am, Baby, but I promise to be on my best behavior with your parents. We’ll just say I’m there for Mia or something.”
Bran knew how much Niko loved his sisters but he also knew that Niko wouldn’t have sat in the hospital waiting room because his sister’s boyfriend was there. Especially not this particular boyfriend since Niko and Lan hated each other. Bran knew that Niko was doing this for Bran and only Bran. No matter how much he hated Bran’s twin, no matter how much trouble Lan has caused Niko, he never held it against Bran.
Bran smiled, “Thank you, Niko. I - I” He stuttered trying to find the right words, when he couldn’t get it out, he simply smiled and pressed another kiss to Niko’s lips. By the look in Niko’s eyes, he knew exactly what Bran had been about to share with him.
Niko decided to let Bran off the hook and instead pressed a kiss to Bran’s forehead. “Come on, Baby.” They had time, all the time in the world, to admit how they truly felt about one another.
🪷
Niko had been sitting on the small couch he and Bran shared yesterday for about an hour as he worked on his assignments when Glyn walked in. “Good Morning, Niko.”
He looked up from his laptop and smiled, “Hey Glyn.”
“Is Bran already back there?”
Clearly, Glyn had figured out there was something going on between her brother and Niko. Or Kil told her. More than likely, she figured it out and Kil confirmed it. Niko nodded, “Yeah, we got here about an hour ago. Mia’s back there, too.”
“Did Lan wake up yet?” Glyn asked.
Niko shrugged, “I haven’t heard anything.”
Glyn took the chair next to the couch and commented, “I was supposed to pick up my parents this morning but their flight was delayed. It doesn’t look like they’ll be here until tonight.”
Niko frowned, “Was it the weather or something?”
“No, some sort of mechanical issue.”
“You should head back, Glyn.” Niko suggested.
Instead of listening to Niko, Glyn asked, “Are you planning to stay all day? You don’t have to, Niko. I’ll take care of Bran.”
Niko felt his chest tighten just thinking of leaving Bran here. “No, no. As long as Bran is here, I’m here.”
“You really care about him, huh?” She was watching him carefully, likely trying to figure out just how much he cared about her big brother.
Niko nodded but didn’t elaborate. He couldn’t tell his boyfriend's sister that he loved said boyfriend before he even told his boyfriend. Were they boyfriends? It sounds so inadequate but regardless of labels - Bran belongs to him and he belongs to Bran. Simple as that.
“I’m glad he has you, Niko.”
Niko smiled, “He’ll always have me.”
When Niko had gotten caught up on all of his work, he texted Bran.
Niko: You okay, Baby? Did Lan wake up yet?
Niko saw his text had been read but Bran hadn’t responded yet. Maybe he was talking to the nurse or was typing a long response.
“Baby?”
Niko looked up and found Bran standing in front of him. “Shit, Lotus Flower, I didn’t mean for you to come out here. You could’ve just texted me.”
Bran shook his head and took a seat on the same couch they had shared yesterday. He immediately snuggled into Niko’s body, it always made him feel safe. “I know but he isn’t awake and there’s nothing I can do back there.”
“Is it weird that he hasn’t woken up yet?” Niko honestly couldn’t care less about that asshole but Lotus Flower did so he would suck it up.
“Mia said he woke up this morning before visiting hours started. He couldn’t really remember anything that happened.”
Niko pulled Bran against him a little tighter. “Do you need anything, Lotus Flower?”
Bran shook his head, “No, I’m okay. Are you okay? You really don’t have to stay all day, Niko.”
“Are you trying to get rid of me, Baby?”
“Of course not! I just feel bad that you’re wasting your whole day sitting around a hospital because someone you don’t even like is here.”
Niko shook his head, “Baby, I’m not wasting anything. I’m here for you. Besides, I happen to like you very much.”
Bran smiled, “Well, I’m glad to hear it because I like you very much, too.”
Bran snuggled with Niko on the couch for another hour before Glyn texted to say that Lan had woken up. Bran turned to Niko to apologize, when Niko said. “Go on, Baby. I’ll be here.”
When lunch time rolled around, Niko ordered sandwiches for everyone. He met the delivery kid outside before he texted Bran that lunch was here when they were hungry. Glyn immediately came out and hugged Niko in thanks. “He fell asleep on the chair and I didn’t want to wake him up.”
“I thought Lan woke up.” Niko said, confused. Why would Lotus Flower be asleep when his brother was finally up?
“He did for about 30 minutes and then he was out again. He’s pretty heavily drugged right now.”
Niko really wanted to take Bran home to sleep in their bed or at the very least, have Bran use Niko’s body as a mattress, but that wasn’t happening so instead Niko held out two sandwiches, “For you and Mia. No olives on Mia’s, she hates olives.”
Glyn smiled and pressed a kiss to Niko’s cheek. “I’ll send Bran out when he wakes up.”
Niko nodded, grateful for Bran’s sister. She was clearly supportive of their relationship. While Niko knew that Lan would never support their relationship, he hoped that Glyn and maybe Bran’s parents’ opinion would be enough.
Niko had scarfed down his sandwich, a large bag of chips, and half a dozen chocolate chip cookies before he slouched down on the couch to take a nap. This is how Bran found him when walked into the waiting room. Bran couldn’t help the little smile that tugged on his lips at the sight. He fit himself between Niko’s legs and bent down low enough to press their lips together. Niko immediately woke up as if his Prince Charming had just saved him with a true love’s kiss.
“I’m sorry I woke you.” Bran said quietly.
Niko shook his head, “You can always wake me up with kisses, Lotus Flower.”
Bran smiled and took his seat next to Niko, immediately accepting the bag of food Niko had ordered. “Thank you, Baby.”
While Bran ate his food, he updated Niko on Lan’s condition. He would have to stay in the hospital another night but if all went well overnight, he would be released in the morning. Bran asked, “What have you been up to out here?”
Niko shrugged, “Finished my assignments, paid some bills, watched some TV.”
“What bills did you pay?”
“The water, cable service, and the mortgage.”
“Mortgage?”
Niko cocked an eyebrow at Bran’s confusion. “On the penthouse.”
“Right, of course. I guess I hadn’t thought about it. How much is it?”
Niko shook his head, “Don’t worry your pretty little head about it, Baby.”
Bran narrowed his eyes, “Niko, I want to know how much the mortgage is.”
“Why?”
“Because I can contribute!” Bran was an idiot for not realizing the penthouse came with bills. He should’ve thought about it earlier but now he knew and he needed to contribute. It wasn’t fair for Niko to pay for it on his own when they were both practically living there. For Christ’s sake, Bran had even turned one of the spare bedrooms into an art studio.
Niko shook his head again, “You don’t have to worry about it, Bran.”
The longer this argument went on, the louder the voices in his head became. Why didn’t Niko want him to help pay? It’s not like he didn’t have money. He was a King, he had a bloody trust fund plus he made a decent income selling his art pieces. Was it because it was too much of a commitment to allow Bran to help with the bills? Did he think that Bran would try to take half of the penthouse if they ever broke up?
“Well, I can’t in good conscience continue staying there if you’re not going to let me pay. I’ll clear out the studio and the rest of my things next week.”
Niko choked on his breath, eyes wide in disbelief. What the fuck? “What the fuck, Bran?! What are you talking about? You’re not fucking going anywhere. Are you trying to break up with me, right now?”
Bran shook his head, “No, I’m just giving you back your space. I’ll just pack a bag when I come over.”
Niko shook his head, “Why the fuck would you do that? That makes no fuckin’ sense.” He argued, a feeling of dread building inside him. What the fuck had gone wrong? They were perfect this morning. Hell, they were perfect 20 fuckin’ minutes ago when Bran walked out here and kissed Niko awake in public.
Bran shrugged, “We’ve basically been living together, Niko. If you don’t want me to contribute to the bills, then I can’t stay there as I have been.”
“Why? You’ve been there all this time without contributing. Why is it a problem now?”
“I didn’t realize you were paying for everything, Niko! I should have, I don’t know what I was thinking, but I should have. I’m sorry I didn’t think of it sooner but I know now and I need to contribute if I’m going to stay there.” Before Niko could say anything, Bran continued, “If you don’t want me to contribute because you think I’m going to try and take half of it when we break up, you don’t have to worry about that. I would never do that to you.”
Niko felt his jaw drop at Bran’s words. What the fuck? “When we break up? You just know that we’re going to break up? You think I give a fuck about you trying to take half of the penthouse? If we’re not together, Bran, you can have the fuckin’ thing!”
Bran shook his head, “Don’t be ridiculous! It’s yours!”
“I don’t fuckin’ want it without you! If you ever leave me, I’ll burn it to the fuckin’ ground.” Niko growled. “I’ll burn the whole fuckin’ world down.” Niko was shaking in anger.
Bran’s eyes went wide at Niko’s declaration. Jesus Christ, he shouldn’t feel so happy at Niko’s threat. Bran immediately hugged Niko, “I’m not going anywhere, Niko. Relax, Baby, please. Just relax.”
Long minutes later, Bran pulled away to look at Niko. “You okay, Baby?”
Niko shrugged, “You’re not fucking leaving me, Bran! You’re fucking mine!”
“I’m yours, Niko, I’m yours.”
“You really want to contribute?” Niko asked quietly.
“I really do.”
Niko sighed and told his truth, “I want us to be real, Bran.”
“We are real, Niko.”
Niko held onto Bran’s hands tightly, shaking his head. “No, Baby. I want us to be real. I want to tell the whole fuckin’ world that you’re mine, that I’m yours. I don’t want to fuckin’ hide anymore.”
Bran shuddered a breath. He didn’t know how to respond. Of course, he wanted to say yes! He wanted everything with Niko. But, could he really do it? Could he really go public with his sexuality?
Niko released his hands with a shake of his head and whispered, “Forget it, Bran. You should get back.” Niko had been bouncing his leg, clenching his fist over and over again as he waited for Bran to leave. Niko should’ve known better, he shouldn’t have said anything. He knew Bran wasn’t ready, he fucking knew it but he couldn’t help himself. Now that Killian, Glyn, and most likely Mia knew about them, Niko had wanted the world to know. He loved Bran and he knew Bran loved him too. Or at least he thought he knew. Hoped, anyway.
Instead of leaving like Niko told him too, Bran pulled out his phone and texted Glyn. “We’re going to go home for the night. I’ll be back in the morning to pick up Lan and Mia.” Glyn responded with a thumbs up.
Bran stood up and Niko tightened his jaw, refusing to watch Bran walk away from him. “Come, Niko.” Bran said.
Niko looked up to find Bran standing in front of him with his hand out. He furrowed his brow in confusion. “I’m not going back there, Brandon.”
Bran took a deep breath, he hated when Niko called him by his full name. Bran knew he deserved it though so he pushed on, “Neither am I. We’re going home.”
Niko watched Bran for a long minute before he accepted Bran’s hand. He allowed Bran to lead him toward the parking lot when he realized he had forgotten his bag. He pulled Bran to a stop, “I forgot my bag, Baby.”
Bran smiled and squeezed Niko’s hand, “I’ll grab it and meet you at the car.” Niko shook his head, about to refuse. “Don’t argue, Niko, please.”
Niko nodded and headed to Bran’s Audi. They had left the car at the hospital overnight, taking Niko’s bike home. This morning, they had taken an Uber to the hospital so they could pick up Bran’s car. Niko slid into the driver’s seat and drove to the entrance of the ER waiting room to pick up Bran. What was taking him so long? Niko put the car in park and stepped inside to find Bran at the nurse’s station. Oh shit.
This morning, while Bran was sitting with Lan and the girls, the nurse from yesterday brought him a cup of coffee. He reluctantly accepted the cup and thanked her for it. It wasn’t until after she had walked away that he realized she had written her number on the cup. Niko had rolled his eyes and put the cup on the floor. He had no need for her number and didn’t bother adding it to his phone or even memorizing it. He should’ve thrown it away instead of leaving it on the floor. Shit.
Niko approached Bran and caught a bit of what he said, “...stay the fuck away from him. He belongs to me.”
Niko couldn’t help the way his heart sped up a few beats hearing Bran’s claim on him. He grabbed Bran’s hand and tugged him away from the nurses’ station. “Come, Baby.”
Bran turned his head to look at Niko, “You’re fucking mine, Nikolai.”
Niko nodded, “Always, Lotus Flower.”
🪷
“We need groceries.” Bran said on the drive home.
Niko nodded in acknowledgment and pulled into the grocery store parking lot. He put the car in park but didn’t turn it off. “Turn off the car, Niko.”
Niko turned to him and cocked an eyebrow. “What?”
“We need groceries, Niko. Come on.”
Niko sighed heavily before turning off the car and following Bran into the store. As they strolled through the store, Bran didn’t hesitate to talk to him or touch him. It didn’t seem to matter that they were in public and anyone could see them. Niko loved it, he was soaking it all in but he didn’t want to get his hopes up.
Niko watched Bran as he moved through the kitchen putting groceries away. “Why did you buy so much groceries?”
Bran stepped into Niko’s space, wrapping his arms around his waist. “Because my parents are coming for dinner tonight.”
Niko’s eyes went wide, “What?”
“We’re real, Niko. Every moment we’ve spent together has been real.” Bran leaned up to press his lips against Niko’s. “I’m sorry it took so long. I’m sorry that I hurt you.”
“Fuck, Lotus Flower.” Niko growled. Bran laughed when Niko picked him up and he quickly wrapped his legs around Niko’s waist. “I’m gonna fuck you so good, Baby. Gonna…”
Bran leaned down and pressed his lips to Niko’s in a deep kiss. When he finally pulled away, Bran asked, “What, Baby, what are you gonna do to me?”
Niko lay Bran out on the bed, ripped his shirt off and threw it somewhere behind him. “I’m gonna make love to you, Lotus Flower.”
Bran smiled brightly, “Please, Niko, please. Yes, make love to me!”
Niko spent time stretching him out while pressing his lips over Bran’s beautiful body. Fuck, Niko loved him so much. He couldn’t believe Bran was finally his. He slipped inside of Bran, loving every moan, every breath he could pull from him. Niko thrusted into him over and over again, until he couldn’t hold back any longer. “Baby, I’m cumming. Come with me, Lotus Flower, come with me.” Niko practically begged.
Bran let out a loud moan, “Niko! Please, Niko! Yes! Yes!” Bran’s ass tightened on Kolya so fuckin’ beautifully as they came together.
Niko collapsed onto Bran and he immediately wrapped his arms around his tattooed body. “I love you, Nikolai.” Bran declared quietly.
Niko tilted his head to look at Bran, “I love you, too, Lotus Flower.”
🪷
Niko had been pacing the length of the living room for over twenty minutes before the elevator sounded. Fuck, they were here.
Bran came out of the kitchen, where he had spent the last few hours preparing dinner and shooing Niko away. “Relax, Baby. They’re gonna love you.”
Niko huffed a deep breath, doubting Bran’s words.
Bran happily greeted his parents with hugs. “Hi Mom, Dad.”
“Oh, Hon! You look great.”
“Thanks Mom.”
“Son. Who’s your friend?”
Bran took a deep breath before moving to stand next to Nikolai. He laced their fingers together and introduced Niko to his parents, “Mom, Dad. This is my boyfriend Nikolai.”
Nikolai stepped forward, extending his hand. “Mr. and Mrs. King. I’m Nikolai Sokolov.”
Bran’s mom grinned brightly, “Oh hello! It is lovely to meet you.”
“It’s nice to meet you, too.”
Silence filled the room as Bran’s Dad, Levi, glared at Nikolai. “Dad?” Bran called.
“Bran?” Levi returned without moving his eyes from Nikolai.
Bran sighed, “Please Dad. Will you say something? Anything?”
Levi stepped forward, “What are you doing with my son?”
“Sir? I -”
“I’m waiting.”
Nikolai took a deep breath and answered honestly, “I love your son, Mr. King. He makes me incredibly happy.” Niko looked at Bran and said, “And I think I make him happy, too.”
Bran smiled and nodded his head, “You do, Niko, you make me so happy.”
Astrid, Bran’s mother, squealed in delight. “You two are so sweet!”
Bran smiled brightly at his mother’s approval. “Thanks Mom.” “Let’s eat before dinner gets cold.”
The four of them sat at the dining table that Bran and Niko never used unless they were fucking on it. Damn it, Niko really wished that thought hadn’t crossed his mind. Knock it off, Kolya! Do you not see the older, blonde version of Lotus Flower glaring at us!
“This is delicious, Baby.” Niko complimented after swallowing the first bite of the steak and french onion mashed potatoes that Bran had filled his plate with.
Levi narrowed his eyes at the easy endearment.
“Thank you, Niko.” Bran replied as he brushed his hand over Niko’s shoulder.
Astrid engaged both Bran and Niko in conversation throughout dinner while Levi sat quietly. “What do you like about my son?” Levi asked out of the blue, interrupting Astrid’s update on her upcoming exhibition.
Niko put down his utensils before sitting straighter in his chair. “I like that he’s responsible, punctual, and takes all of his engagements seriously. Steps up for justice and helps in every way possible. I like his cooking, his rare smiles, and how dedicated he is to running and staying healthy. I like making him laugh and watching him sleep. I like how he’s fully concentrated when he’s in the art studio. But most of all, I like how he let me into his life and made a place for me there. I even like the boring Agatha Christie movie adaptations now not because they’re any good but because he’s truly obsessed with that sh - I mean stuff. I even like his nagging and control freak tendencies most of the time so yeah there’s nothing I don’t like. Actually, there’s something - he has this habit of putting everyone else’s comfort before his own or he pretends to be fine when he’s obviously not. I don’t only dislike that, I hate it.”
Levi sighed heavily as he looked at his son. He could see how much Bran loved this man. Fuck, there was no way Bran would get over him, would let him go which means Levi will be stuck with another fuckin’ psycho. Sure, Nikolai was more respectful than his psycho fuckin’ cousin Killian but Levi couldn’t imagine that he would ever be good enough for his Bran.
🪷
Levi and Nikolai found themselves sitting in the living room alone while Bran and his mom were working on dessert. Nikolai turned to look at Bran’s Dad where he sat on the small couch across from him. “Look, I know I wouldn’t be your first choice for Bran.” Levi grunted in agreement but Nikolai pushed on, “But I love your son. No one else could ever love him the way I do. I would give anything - my life included - to make him smile. You know he loves me too. Please don’t make him choose.”
“Choose?” Levi asked. “Choose what?”
Nikolai sucked in a deep breath, chest tightening. “Please don’t make him choose between your family and me. I know he’ll choose you, I understand that, but you need to understand that it will break his heart.”
Levi huffed, “I have no intention of making Bran choose anything. I love my son, Nikolai, and that means I want him to be happy.”
It was quiet for a long minute before Bran and Astrid returned. Nikolai felt himself relax for the first time since the Kings walked into their penthouse. They wouldn’t make him choose, they wouldn’t take Bran away from him. Thanking fucking God!
Bran handed Nikolai a plate with a large slice of the chocolate and raspberry cake he had made this afternoon. “Thank you, Baby.” Niko smiled before taking a large bite. “Fuck, so good!” He groaned happily around the rich cake in his mouth.
Bran leaned forward and pressed a kiss to Niko’s cheek. While he didn’t love how much sugar Niko took in everyday, he did love to see him happy. Especially tonight, Dad certainly hadn’t made it easy on Niko but he handled it beautifully. He never got frustrated, he never showed any sign that Bran wasn’t fuckin’ worth all this. If anything, he made Bran fall even deeper in love with him.
Astrid asked, “Bran, what have you been working on lately?”
Niko immediately lit up, “You should take them to see your studio, Baby.”
“Studio? You have a studio here?”
Bran nodded, “Uh, yeah, I do. Do you want to come see it?”
Astrid immediately stood up from her seat next to Levi. “Absolutely, Hon!”
Bran led his parents down the hall, “I guess I should give you the tour.” Niko followed behind just watching his Lotus Flower show off their home. “This is the guest bedroom which we’ve never used and down here is the first bathroom.”
“How many bedrooms and bathrooms are there?”
Nikolai answered, “Four bedrooms and two bathrooms.”
“And you own this place?” Levi asked.
“Yes, it’s under my name but this is our place.” Nikolai responded. “I don’t stay here unless Bran is here.”
“Oh? And where do you stay otherwise?” Levi grilled.
Bran answered, “When I’m at the Elite’s Mansion, Niko will stay at the Heathen’s Mansion.”
“I’m glad to hear you aren’t spending all your time with him. You shouldn’t be isolating your friends, Bran.”
Bran rolled his eyes and grumbled, “Dad! Please, please give him a chance.”
Astrid slapped Levi on the arm, “Levi, enough.”
Bran hesitated before opening the next door. This door led to their bedroom and it almost felt like a violation to allow anyone into their private space, especially since Dad has been so vocal about issues with Niko. He glanced at his parents, hoping he wouldn’t regret this. “This is our bedroom.” He said as he opened the door and stepped into the room. He and Niko had cleaned the room earlier so he knew exactly what they would find. They had changed the bedding on their king sized bed - using white sheets and a white comforter. There was a light blue blanket folded at the end of their bed. The hoodie Niko had been wearing earlier was thrown over the chair in the corner of the room. On the nightstand, there was a framed picture of Bran and Niko. It was one of the only pictures the two had together.
Bran had spent most of the day locked in his studio when Nikolai had barged in. “You’ve been in here all day, Lotus Flower. I miss you!”
Bran laughed, “We had lunch together a few hours ago.”
Nikolai shook his head, “You ate and left! I barely saw you.”
Bran stepped forward, paint brush in hand. “Are you bored, Niko?”
“Yes!”
An idea came to Bran, “Would you let me paint you, Niko?”
“Huh, what do you mean? Like one of your French girls?”
Bran laughed loudly, “No, will you let me paint on your body. It’ll wash off.”
Niko’s eyes twinkled, “Fuck yes! You can do whatever you want to me, Lotus Flower.
An hour and two orgasms later, Nikolai's skin was covered in paint. Nikolai pulled up the camera on his phone to take a selfie, “Come here, my little artist! I want you to show off your masterpiece.”
Niko stood there half naked (as usual), with his hair pulled into a knot at the top of his head, a few wavy strands falling out. He had a bright smile on his face which only seemed to brighten even more once Bran stepped in close to him. Just as Niko snapped the photo, Bran turned his head to press a kiss to Niko’s cheek.
Astrid lifted the photo with a smile, “I’m so happy for you, Bran.”
“Thanks Mom.” Bran said before opening another door, “This is the en suite.” Bran had never really noticed how domestic their lives had become until he imagined seeing it through someone else’s eyes. Their toothbrushes, shaving products, hair products laid on the counter next to each other. The bath towels hung on the rack drying.
As they moved to exit the bedroom, Levi pointed to another door. “What’s in there?”
Nikolai was closest to the door and pulled it open. “Closet. Bran has a lot of polo shirts and at least 10 pairs of the same khakis.” he snarked.
Bran laughed and whacked him on the arm. “Not everyone would prefer to walk around half naked, Niko!”
Niko shrugged, uncaring. He hated clothes and went shirtless as much as he possibly could.
Once again, Bran saw how domestic their life seemed to be. Shirts and pants were hung next to each other, sweaters and shoes sat on the shelves. The drawers held their underwear and socks. Almost every worldly possession they had was inside of these walls. It was visual proof of the commitment and devotion they had made without really realizing it.
Niko placed his hand on Bran’s lower back as they followed Bran’s parents out of their room. Finally, it was time to show them Bran’s art studio. Niko once again opened the door. “This is where the magic happens.” He proclaimed.
Bran knew that the studio wasn’t anything special. Sure, the large windows and glass roof provided tons of natural light but so did a lot of art spaces. To an outsider, this space wasn’t any different from the hundreds of other studios out there. But to Bran, it was a piece of Niko’s home that he had gift wrapped especially for Bran. It was Niko’s way of showing him that the penthouse belonged to the both of them no matter whose name was on the paperwork.
As Levi and Astrid took in Bran’s art studio, Bran turned to Niko. “Thank you, Baby.” Niko cocked an eyebrow in confusion. “Thank you for building a home for me, with me.”
Nikolai sucked in a breath before he brushed his lips against Bran’s forehead, “You know I’d do anything for you, Lotus Flower.”
🪷
The next morning, Bran woke up at 5:00 for his daily run. He had missed yesterday’s run and really wanted to skip it again today. It was so damn hard to get out of this bed, when it was so warm with Niko’s body cuddled against his own. After his parents had left for their hotel, Niko had dragged Bran into their bedroom and fucked him so damn good. He slept deeply until his internal clock went off. He fought with himself in silence before he gently untangled himself from Nikolai.
Thirty minutes later, Bran stepped out of the penthouse and stretched out his legs on the pavement. He was dressed in a gray t-shirt, blue running shorts, and his white trainers. He popped his ear buds in and took off down the street. The sun had risen at least forty minutes earlier when he walked back into the penthouse. He went straight to the fridge for a large drink of water before going to check on Niko. He had found him still fast asleep. Face buried in Bran’s pillow, body stretched at an angle across their bed. Bran smiled to himself before he went to take a shower.
Bran was standing in the shower letting the hot water relax his muscles when he felt Niko’s large arms slide around his body. “Mmm, Good Morning Baby.”
Bran leaned back, resting more of his weight against Niko. “Morning. How’d you sleep?”
“Slept fine. Did you sleep okay?”
Bran nodded, “Really well actually, you wore me out.” Bran felt Kolya flex against his ass before he moved away. “Oh no. I have to leave soon to pick up Lan and Mia from the hospital.”
“We’ll be quick.” Niko whined as he closed the distance between them again.
Bran laughed, “You always say that and it never is!”
Niko pouted but gave in. “Fine but after we drop Landon off, you’re all mine.”
“I have to see what kind of shape he’ll be in. He may need my help.”
Niko shook his head, “No way! He’s Mia’s problem, not yours!”
“And what do you mean after we drop him off? You’re not coming with me, Niko.”
Niko frowned, “Why not? I thought you said we were together now? You introduced me to your parents for fuck’s sake!”
Bran stepped forward and wrapped his arms around Niko. “Listen to me, Niko. We are together and I’m so glad that my parents got to meet you. I have absolutely no regrets about that, okay?” He only continued after Niko nodded in agreement. “But Landon is different. He’s literally just getting out of the hospital and has enough on his plate. I promise I will tell him but not yet. Is that okay?”
Niko thought about it, “Does this mean we can’t be seen together anymore?”
Bran moved his hair through Niko’s wet hair. “No, Baby, we’re never going back to that. Okay? I’m sorry that I ever put you through that.” Bran kissed Niko’s lips softly, “I’m not hiding you away but I’m also not flaunting it in front of my brother or cousins.”
Niko nodded, “Okay but I want to tell Jer and the others. Killian already knows and I don’t want Jer to hear it from someone else.”
Bran didn’t particularly like Niko’s relationship with Jer. Deep down he knew there wasn’t a reason to be jealous but he didn’t like how close they were, how Jer knew things about Niko that Bran didn’t. “Why don’t you go to the Heathen’s Mansion while I pick up Landon?”
Niko nodded in agreement. “Okay, deal. Let’s kiss on it.”
Bran laughed but did as Niko asked and planted a deep kiss on his full lips.