alive not dead - ASHTON

[PETER WALKER]

And rain falls angry on the tin roof
As we lie awake in my bed.
You're my survival, you're my living proof.
My love is alive -- not dead.
OUTFIT

Peter's sleeping problem seemed ever so persistent. For some reason he just couldn't get to sleep. Even when he would manage to get to sleep he would wake up every five minutes or so and it would just take a huge toll on him in the morning. His first mistake, as he had found when he had mentioned the problem before, was that he hadn't told Ashton right away. But Peter wanted to think that he could beat it on his own. Unfortunately that just hadn't been possible. So when Ashton offered to come over the first time... Peter was just hoping it would work. That night had been a blast. He had gotten quality alone time with Ashton and for once it wasn't to have sex. Peter had been so glad that he had agreed to let Ashton come over. Nothing could beat the feeling of waking up in Ashton's arms that morning. WAKING UP. For once Peter had at least managed to sleep an hour. It had been so much better with Ashton there. So, of course, it sort of became a nightly thing.

The invitation for Ashton to come over had already been sent. Peter had been ready for bed for about two hours already and all he had to do was wait on Ashton. He had taken a shower already so he knew that he didn't smell bad and he had changed into his pjs which consisted of a pair of super mario boxers and a white super mario t-shirt. For anyone else Peter would put some pants on, but for Ashton, well, Peter favored boxers for the moment. The night was all about comfort. He just needed to be comfortable and if that meant boxers, then so be it. Peter didn't think Ashton would do much complaining about it. He sat on the end of his bed, looking down as Hobo licked his feet. Wrinkling his nose, Peter bent down and picked Hobo up. "Hey, baby girl, guess who's coming to see us tonight." Peter said with a smile. Hobo wagged her tail happily, licking Peter's face.

Peter laughed, laying back. The silence in the room hit Peter hard. He didn't like silence of that variety. It was so uncomfortable. Peter sighed heavily, letting Hobo back down. He moved over to where he kept Eleanor. He slowly opened the case and ran his fingers over the length of Eleanor. Peter loved his guitar more than anything in the world. It was his one posession that he would never think of giving up for anything. Someone could hold a gun to Peter's head and he wouldn't give up Eleanor. He picked her up gently by the neck and pulled her into his lap as he sat on the floor indian-style. Peter drew in a large breath. He had felt lately like he had been neglecting Eleanor, but that was about to change. It wouldn't be long before Ashton would be there, but that didn't mean that Peter couldn't mess around on the guitar. Biting his lower lip, Peter began to play something that had been floating around in his head. It was a nice, smooth melody. He had been favoring the smoother stuff.

At first Peter hadn't been expecting lyrics, but soon they just came to him. "oh the sultry sunset brings peace to my injured heart. well the brutality of fucking reality, it was tearing me apart. yeah, i know i was losing my mind, shying away from the truth i couldn't know. oh yeah i was losing my mind and now, i just want you to know..." Peter's voice died off when he realized what he was about to say. Never had Peter wanted so desperately to put the word love in a song. It had been a while. The last time Peter sang about love in general... he was singing to Alex. This time was completely different. This was Ashton... the boy that had told him from the beginning that he didn't believe in love. At that time Peter hadn't been so sure either. He could remember clearly how Ashton challenged him to think. Ashton still challenged him to think and he loved it.

Peter closed his eyes and put Eleanor back in her case. Surely Ashton would arrive soon. He pushed the case back under his bed and stood. Peter looked at Hobo, who had curled up on his bed, already starting to go to sleep. He smiled and climbed onto the bed, laying flat on his stomach next to Hobo. "I don't know what I'm doing, girl." Peter said, his smile dropping slightly. "I don't want to get hurt again. I'm drifting into uncharted waters here." Hobo tilted her head toward Peter. "I mean, I know if I could do it years ago... I can do it now... but I mean, it's different." Peter didn't know what he was talking about. He couldn't kid himself. It would be a mistake to get into any of the love stuff. "Maybe I'll get some sleep tonight, girl. What do you think?" Hobo whimpered slightly and Peter sighed. "Yeah, I was kind of thinking that too."

[ASHTON JOHNSON]

<sup>Ashton looked down at Luna. She was rubbing up against his leg and meowing. He sighed, of all times that luna wanted attention. "I gotta go..' he tilted his head a bit when she made a protesting sound and circled around his feet. He grumbled something and picked her up. "You want to come?" he quirked a brow and Luna answered by purring loudly and trying to rub her head on his fingers. He rolled his eyes with a small smirk and nodded. "Yeah yeah yeah... alright come on then. he grumbled. He had just pulled on a pair of sweats and a white t-shirt. Under his sweats he had a pair of black boxers, but he wasnt going to go walking down the hall in just boxers. He hadnt drank or smoked anything so he had more dignity then that. He set luna down and walked over, grabbing a few toys and the new one hed gotten for Hobo. Luna watched him intently from where she was now sitting on the foot of the bed. "Dont worry Im not just going to ditch you..' he smirked and headed back over picking her up and then grabbing the other bag that had two white milk chugs in it and some oreos.

lately hes been staying over at Peters. When he had found out about the nightmares ashton had been a little hurt that Peter hadnt told him. Ashton really had no idea what he could do to help, but the fact that he could at least stay with him at night and if he started having nightmares he could wake him was at least something. Ashton sighed. He thought maybe oreos would cheer Peter up a bit tonight. And if not, then Luna could snuggle with him... or.. well he could. He smirked a bit to himself and shook his head. He was such a dork sometimes... but mostly when it came to Peter.

Once he got to Peters room he knocked once and then opened the door. Peter already knew he was coming over so he figured it was okay. "Hey.. he said poking his head in first and then coming in the rest of the way setting LUna down. "She demanded..' he said nodding to luna who he set down. Immediately she jumped up next to Peter and started to rub her head on his shoulder, purring.

Ashton rolled his eyes a bit and shrugged, dropping the toys and then walking over to squat at the foot of the bed. "hey hobes' he said and pulled out a squeaky toy. THey were annoying as hell and she seemed to always know where the squeaker was, but she loved them so he couldnt help but get her more. He squeezed it making it squeak and her ears shot up. He laughed lightly and then waved it in front of her and tossed it on the floor. She jumped down to get it and Ashton stood up and took her spot.

"Hey.. he said resting a hand on Peters back, rubbing it lightly between his shoulders and down his spine. "Brought you something..' he smirked and held the bag out to him. "Thought you could use some...' he smirked.</sup>

[PETER WALKER]

Hobo was beginning to get impatient. She had already begun pawing at Peter's ear and climbing playfully on his back. Of course, even this got boring for Hobo as she lay back down in the spot next to Peter. He tilted his head, raising an eyebrow at his puppy companion. "I know, I know, he's taking his time, sweety. That's okay." Peter laughed at the look Hobo gave him. He wasn't sure Hobo agreed that taking time was a good thing. Peter folded his arms and rested his cheek flat on the back of his hands. Usually Peter would be worn out and exhausted after his shower, but this time Peter felt wrestless and paranoid. Peter thought about the nightmares about how horrible they were. He could always remember waking up and screaming to the point where someone would have to come and check on him to make sure that he was okay. Peter knew that having Ashton there would prevent that because Ashton could shake him and wake him up before it got that bad.

Peter didn't even look up when he heard the knock. He already knew who it was and the door was unlocked so there was no need to get up and open it. Peter grinned instantly when he saw Ashton come in and set Luna down. He laughed as Luna rubbed up against his shoulder and nuzzled her nose against his cheek to get him to pet her. Peter, of course, gave in, shifting his position so that he could pet Luna. The minute Peter heard the squeak he knew that Hobo's attention was lost. He watched Hobo jump off the bed and go for the toy. Ashton was really going to spoil the puppy if he kept getting him toys. But Peter never complained. He liked getting down there with Hobo and playing with the toys too. So it was really like Ashton was spoiling them both. Peter and Hobo played together a lot since Peter was starting to spend more time in his room. He didn't like going out and leaving his Hobaby all alone.

Peter stopped petting Luna when he felt the electic touch on his back. He loved that he still felt special every time Ashton touched him. It was like that spark from before had never died down. That had to be a good thing. "Hey, baby." Peter replied softly as he fely Ashton's hand run down his spine. God that felt amazing. He loved those little moments when Ashton would show him affection or just do the small couple stuff that Peter had started out never expecting. They were obviously maturing as a couple to the point where some of the stuff that had bothered them before were really no longer a problem. Of course, there were still some pretty awkward moments, but Peter could totally look past those. Naturally, Peter's eyes lit up when Ashton said he had brought him something.

Sitting up excitedly, Peter took the bag and peered inside it. Oreos and milk. Peter smiled and leaned over, gently kissing Ashton's cheek. "Best boyfriend ever." He said as he reached into the bag, pulling the pack of oreo. Peter was just glad that Ashton remembred his favorite snack food. He opened the pack and placed it between him and Ashton. Peter didn't want to be an oreo hog. Peter then reached in and pulled out one of the milks and handed it to Ashton. He loved oreos and milk. It was a combination sure to win over Peter's heart. Peter took one oreo, opened the milk and dipped it in. He swirled the oreo around a bit, letting it get a little soggy before he lifted it out and ate it. After swallowing Peter smiled, "Good God, it's like heaven in a cookie."

[ASHTON JOHNSON]

<sup>Ashton gave a small grunt and a sigh as Peter called him baby, but he said nothing. It kind of felt nice, though he wouldnt tell peter that. Pete probably wouldnt let him hear the end of it. Besides at least they werent in the chat room... or in public for that matter... and... well he was here for Pete. So.. he could... let him say it... just... for now. He crawled his fingers back up his back and then rubbed at his neck gently. His skin was warm beneath his fingers and, as always, he felt that electrical current that seemed to flow from his skin whenever he touched him. Hed heard those stupid love stories about stuff like that and even though he was experiencing it, he was not going to give in. It could be anything, maybe hed rubbed his feet on the carpet a lot. He knew that was BS, but hey... it was a lot safer to think that then to actually think that bits of fairy tales were true. He did like Peter... he truly cared about him.. he was an idiot if he said no. He was in an actual relationship so he had to care about him at least a little right? But he was not going to fall onto the love wagon. They havent really been together that long really even if it felt like years. Friendships could feel like that with the right person. Didnt mean anything. He refused to think otherwise.

Ashton watched his reaction and had an almost goofy grin on his face when Peter leaned over and kissed his cheek declaring him the best boyfriend ever. IT didn't take long for him to realize he probably looked like an idiot and his grin dropped immediately settling on his usual smirk, hoping Peter hadnt caught the smile. He wet his lips and watched him take the chugs out, taking the one he handed him and then Peter Set the oreos down between them. Ashton opened his milk as well taking a drink as he reached for one of the cookies.

His smirk twitched to a grin. Ashton knew how much Peter liked oreos and it really didnt take much to make Peter happy. Most people... they were so difficult but not Peter. The fact that he could actually make him happy, made Ashton feel good. Ashton had passed the arguing within himself over the fact that he was admitting it made him feel good. There was no point in it anymore because he was doing it more often just to see Peter happy. Yeah he still hated how sappy that sounded, but it was just between the two of them. Kind of made it... something of their own sort of. He liked their relationship being just between them. He actually didnt really like sharing Peter, but he wasnt about to tell him what he could and couldnt do regarding his friends. He would bit his tongue even if he wanted to just tell Peter he wanted to hang out with him and to stay. It was good he have time alone too even if it wasnt really a problem anyway. Peters been pretty much spending most his time with him.

With Peter things were more of a natural and easy progression then he would have thought. Then again Ashton knew that if he had tried this with anyone else it just .. it wouldnt do. He would not be this cooperative and hed be single by now. One of the reasons he never dated. Pete well... obviously he was different.</sup>

[PETER WALKER]

Peter was surprised Ashton had let the baby slip. He technically wasn't supposed to use pet names with Ashton, but that one had just sort of slipped out before he could stop it. Sometimes Peter had to think before he said things because he constantly wanted to call Ashton sweety, baby, honey, and other names that just pop into his head. Peter liked to show affection, but if Ashton didn't like it, then Peter wouldn't do it. The baby had gotten away from him that time, but Peter would have to think for the rest of the time about not calling Ashton a pet name. The grunt was adorable, and Peter knew it was in reaction to him calling Ashton baby. As Ashton ran his fingers back up the length of his pine and finally settled at the neck area, Peter released a relieved sigh. Ashton's touch was so much better than any sort of massage. It was relaxing for Peter. The weird thing was that Peter was pretty sure Ashton didn't mean to have that relaxing feeling about it. It just sort of happened. But it was a feeling Peter could get used to very easily.

The grin on Ashton's face was a lot better for Peter than any smirk Ashton had to offer. He loved seeing Ashton look happy or, well, pleased. But, of course, the grin faded into a smirk. Oh well, Peter wasn't too disappointed. He decided not to say anything about the sudden change. No, then Ashton might think about not doing it again. Peter was sure that if he left it alone Ashton would forget about trying to keep it at a low key smirk. He could still hardly believe Ashton brought him oreos. That really made his day right there. Just knowing that Ashton was really starting to learn more about him made him happy. Peter was never a hard one to please anyway. As far as that went he was really a simple kind of guy. But it was also easy to hurt his feelings too. Sometimes Peter could be hard to work with, but most of the time it was easy to get him to forgive and forget. The point was, Ashton currently made him more happy than he had been in a long time. That was something Peter considered.

Once again Ashton let another grin slip. This time it didn't fade. The first oreo was great. Peter reached into the bag for a second one. He went through the same process, dipping the oreo in the milk, swirling the milk around, and after the oreo was soggy enough to be soft and chewey, Peter would eat it. Peter looked down to his milk, which was a murky color because of the oreos. He smiled, reaching for another oreo. "Mm, if the white stuff is on the right, you get a kiss. If the white stuff is on the left, you get poked." Peter bit his lower lip as he drew out the opening of the oreo. When the oreo was finally open, Peter raised an eyebrow. The icing had split in half. There was some on the right and left. "Hm, well I didn't expect that to happen." He said with a laugh. Peter had to decide if that cancelled the whole thing out or if he would just do both. It was a tough decision to make for sure. But Peter finally settled on an answer.

Taking his milk in his hand so that it wouldn't spill. Peter closed in and kissed Ashton at the same time as poking him in the stomach with his free hand. "Yummy," Peter said with a laugh. "Oreo breath." Peter could be childish at times, but that was really just part of Peter's charm. He was so easy to get along with. Sometimes Peter didn't act childish around Ashton because of all people he didn't want Ashton to look down on him and think he was doing something stupid. But Peter didn't care about that for once. This time Peter didn't need to worry. It was just the two of them. They could act as silly as they wanted. Peter and Ashton had their silly moments for sure, just like any couple would. Peter liked it when there was no pressure and it was just him and Ashton like they were the only two left in SJI and nothing mattered anymore. But even Peter knew it couldn't be like that 24/7. Ashton would eventually get tired of him.

Besides, Peter didn't want his friends to feel abandoned. He had promised himself that he wouldn't be the guy that left his friends behind just because he got a boyfriend. Peter still liked being silly with Cait and he still wanted to have late night movie nights with Taylor and some ice cream. He loved those moments. Peter loved his friends, but that was a different kind of love. Wait, no. Peter had to push the l-word out of his head before he ended up doing something stupid. No more l-word. Peter ate the oreo that he had split apart, but first licked the icing off the inside. Yeah, Peter was an icing licker. With a dry oreo, the icing was better than the actual, but when soaked in milk... the whole cookie was transformed into an object of delight.

[ASHTON JOHNSON]

<sup>Ashton took his time on his cookie. He twisted it open and then scraped the white middle off on one side of the cookie and then the other making it into a pile on one half of the cookie. He looked over at Peter as he stated that if the white was on one side he either got a kiss or a poke. He quirked his brow his eyes dropping to Peters cookie as he twisted it open. The center turned out to stick half on each side. Snorting he looked up at Peter again to see what his decision would be. "oh.. no..' he laughed lightly, his voice slightly playful slightly sarcastic.

Peter then leaned in and kissed him. Ashton was cool with that but as his lips touched him, Ashton jumped a little from the finger poking into his stomach and he moved his abdomen away a little. "hey ..' he pressed a hand to his chest ending the kiss nearly right away. "You play dirty...' he looked down at the cookie that had the sweet center piled on it. "And to think I was going to let you lick my white center..' he gave him a look as he smirked. "But no I think Ill keep it to myself...' he took the cookie and leaned over the bed to set it on the table beside the bed, his shirt rising up a bit to reveal a strip of skin.

Straightening up he readjusted his shirt and gave Peter a playfully challenging look. "Two can play at this game.' he said and popped the clean half of the cookie into his mouth while taking a drink of his milk, keeping an eye on Peter in case he decided to dive for it. He had rolled his eyes a little at the oreo breath comment, but it was all in play. Ashton was in a pretty good mood tonight for now anyway and he was just enjoying this time with Peter. To be honest he liked how peter was, whether he was playful or serious or dorky or anything in between.

Ashton was well aware that sometimes he might be very critical of Peter, throwing things in his face and stuff. He had no idea why he didnt just keep his mouth shut. He personally didnt want Peter to change, maybe some things... like his need to please which in turn allowed people to walk all over him, well okay maybe hed like that to change, but other things.... He didnt. He licked his lips cleaning it of any crumbs or milk as he grabbed for another cookie. "You going to be good?' he asked his voice kind of lower then normal as he gave him a little look.</sup>

[PETER WALKER]

Peter couldn't help but do his usual giggle when Ashton said he played dirty. Hey- to keep up with Ash, Peter had to play dirty. He smiled as Ashton continued to say that he was going to keep his white center to himself. Peter watched Ashton as he leaned over the bed to place the oreo in question on the table next to the bed. The stip of skin that was revealed drew Peter's attention rather than the cookie. He wanted to reach out and run his fingers along that thin strip of skin, but he resisted the urge as Ashton seemed to readjust his shirt. Ashton really was playing dirty. But that wouldn't stop Peter from doing just the same if not more. He really did enjoy being able to be like this with Ashton. It was fun and enjoyable. Proabably not at all what people would suspect their relationship would be like.

Because Peter and Ashton were such opposites at times, it was difficult to tell how they would act together when. There were times when Peter and Ashton argued, times when they spent their conversation saying things with dirty double meanings, and sometimes they wouldn't say much at all. It really depended on their moods. It seemed that both of them were in great moods at the moment and that was all Peter would ask for. As Ashton reached for another oreo, Peter reached and grabbed his hand. He maneuvered himself to where he could straddle Ashton. "I don't know if I can be good with you talking in that voice." Peter reached up, sitting his milk on the table next to the oreo.

Peter grinned and kissed Ashton. He kissed down Ashton's jaw, down his neck, skipping over the clothed part of his arm, down to his wrist where Peter stopped and took a bite out of the oreo that Ashton had gotten from the bag. Peter sat up, still straddling Ashton. Reaching back, Peter grabbed an oreo from the bad. He opened it, the icing somehow all ending up on one side. "Hm, what to do now?" Peter asked, raising an eyebrow. "You have a white center I can't have and I have a white center you can't have." Peter smiled a slightly devious smile. "What are you gonna do about that?" This was an interesting situation. Peter had never thought oreos could be sexy before, but Ashton just really seemed to bring it out of him. But that was a good thing. Peter could have fun and get the physical part too.

But Peter really didn't want to end it with sex. Peter just wanted to enjoy his time with Ashton. He would really have to tone it down. He wouldn't complain, of course, if they ended up having sex. Still, it would be nice to not have sex for once and just...chill. It's not like they hadn't done that before. If they could do it once, then Peter was sure they could do it again. He kind of looked forward to snuggling up next to Ashton and TRYING to get some sleep. The only thing Peter was really afraid of was his tendency to talk in his sleep. That was when his thoughts tended to slip out, or if he were dreaming, then his spoken words in the dream might actually be spoken. There had been complaints lodged by all of his friends nearly.

[ASHTON JOHNSON]

<sup>Peter was probably the only person, girl or guy, that Ashton could even stand to listen to giggle. Really he always found giggling annoying. When Ashton used to do it before hed roll his eyes and tell himself it was annoying, but as time went on he realized he hadnt been annoyed by it because it had been annoying, but it was annoying because he actually hadnt found it annoying. Ashton had changed, not completely and not really how he was, but there were parts of him that hed never let out that he somewhat did now. Peter was always the trigger.

He touched more, with more intent of it for feeling then for sexual basis. He actually snuggled and spooned. In public... he may not be real big on PDA but he would hold hands more then he used to and hed even throw in a kiss here and there. If they were alone then he took advantage of it. He was a private person. Back at parties when hed been fucked up, he didnt even like to do stuff unless they were alone or well sometimes there were instances when they werent compeletely alone but for the most part... And now he was still the same save for some little things whenever people were around. There was a lot of things Ashton didnt show people and he was well aware that some might think he treated Peter like crap or they believed he did. They honestly had no reason not to think that. Ashton could care less about changing peoples minds. He figured if Peter really wasnt happy in their relationship then... he would be able to tell right? He wasnt so sure Pete would actually say something but he should be able to tell at least. Well hed like to think so. He had his paranoid times but at the same time when he wasnt being paranoid he was almost sure that Peter actually liked being with him.

Ashton looked up at Peter as he grabbed his wrist and it didnt take long before he had a lap full of Peter. Ashton smirked at him his brow raised, before giving an innocent shrug at his words. "I didnt do a thing...' he mused slightly.

Then it didnt matter because Peters mouth was on his. He almost was expecting it, but still the feeling he got from it was always shocking to him. He put a hand on his hip, the other kind of touching his other side and still holding the cookie in it. Peter moved from his lips and Ashton made a sound of protest, which nearly quickly turned into a moan as he felt Peters lips on his neck then. Peter then moved down to his arm and trailed to his hand leaving goosebumps behind. Then he was taking a bite of his cookie and pulling away to grab one as well.

Ashton grumbled under his breath. PEter was such a fucking tease. Peter proceeded to continue to play with him as he untwisted the cookie. Ashtons brows went up. ''hmm.... he smirked and turned them hoping not to hit the cookies as he was now angled on top of peter, "I always get what I want...' he said as he nipped at his neck and then jaw, looking down at peter he flicked his tongue over peters bottom lip before sucking it lightly into his mouth, giving it a gentle gnaw before letting it go. The question is more... what are you going to do about it'</sup>

[PETER WALKER]

Peter was surprised when the tables were turned and Ashton was on top of him. That was a move that he hadn't been expecting. Unexpected? Yes. Sex? God yes. Ashton knew just what to do in order to get Peter's blood rushing. Peter wanted to comment on the fact that Ashton said he always got what he wanted, but before Peter could really say anything about it Ashton's lips were on his. Ashton did the thing Peter loved and played with his lower lip. That was inarguably a turn on for Peter. He wondered what Ashton would do or say next. There really was no telling. Peter kind of liked not being about to guess what Ashton might do or say. Sometimes it was a little frustrating, but that was only when Ashton would be in his difficult mood. Peter still had a few things to figure out about those. But when Ashton was in a good mood... Peter loved the sponteneity of it. He loved always having to be on his toes. Ashton was the best with that.

When Ashton asked what he was going to do about it Peter laughed. "Mm, you wanna know what I'm gonna do about it?" He mused. Peter wouldn't even try and outdo Ashton's thing. There was no way that he could. Instead, Peter moved up a little toward the head of the bed so that he could reach the half of oreo that was sitting on the table next to the bed. He reached over, grabbing it from the table. Peter then smiled as he pushed his icing side together with Ashton's icing side. "Push the two sides together and it's double the white center." He said as he placed the now whole cookie back on the table. Peter smiled before he moved back in his comfortable position under Ashton. Usually people didn't like being under someone else, but Peter loved being under Ashton. Then again... Peter wasn't one to really care about control. He didn't need to control the situation. All he wanted was to have Ashton there with him. If Ashton was there with him, on top of him, then so be it.

Peter allowed his hands to settle at Ashton's hips, gently rubbing before moving up Ashton's back. He smiled, leaning up to gently kiss Ashton. It wasn't a lustful kiss, but more of a kiss expected from a boyfriend. When Peter pulled away his smile refused to go away. Being with Ashton just made him happy. He was so glad that he had Ashton to help him out. Without Ashton Peter couldn't imagine what his life would be. Sure he figure that he would still be having late, late night movie marathons with Taylor or having sleepovers with Cait, but something would be different. Before Ashton there had been a sort of emptiness there that Peter had chosen to ignore. But Ashton filled that up. There was no way that Peter would think of getting rid of that feeling. Peter liked knowing that Ashton was his and he was Ashtons. That was the way Peter thought all relationships should be like.

"What do you think about that solution?" Peter asked with a grin. He thought it was the perfect solution. Mentally Peter compared the two halves to him and Ashton. He figured that they had already found out that life apart just wasn't working out... so in the end... it just made more sense to put them together. In the end, Peter was glad that was the case. And in that case... Ashton was right... he could have what he wanted any time he asked for it because Peter would go above and beyond to get it for him. It was a little cheesey, yeah, but that was the way Peter felt. Deep, deep down Peter knew he would do that stuff for Ashton because he loved him enough to want to do that stuff for him. At the same time... the idea of loving someone that much again was scary.

[ASHTON JOHNSON]

<sup>Ashton nodded looking up at Peter, a half smirk on his lips waiting to see what he was going to do. Ashton had to bite his lip as Peter scooted up, his body rubbing against his as he did so. Peter then put their halves together and put it back. Ashton rolled his eyes. "lame.. he said. "I think you could have done much better then that...' he snorted. Though his smirk was quickly wiped off when Peter started moving again to get back to where he was. Ashton grunted trying to keep from moaning and he lifted himself a little bit so he couldnt feel him quite as much.

He felt Peters hands at his waist, the warmth burning through his shirt and the little bit of skin that was showing from all the moving around. He licked his lips a bit as he felt him rub a little bit before moving up his back as his lips met his at the same time. Ashton kissed him back, hed gotten a lot better at not immediately turning kisses into kisses that were about sex. Peter had to stop him one time and tell him to relax as he showed him that people, especially in relationships, could have 'nice' kisses. Hed never had one of these before at least that he remembered. Maybe the first couple times hed ever kissed, but those had been really awkward so that doesnt count.

His first 'nice' kiss had been a little awkward because sometimes hed just kind of forget and speed it up again, but he had gotten much better. He actually kind of liked these kisses. They were sweet and he had time to actually really feel Peters lips and taste him. Ashton kissed him back.

Ashton made a small face and wondered if Peter knew exactly how much of a tease he could be. Or if he was truly trying to be on purpose or not. Ashton shrugged, licking his lips again, though this time it wasnt out of habit or nervousness, it was to taste Peter on them. "I think as far as cookies go.. as long as you're eating it, I dont care.' he scrunched his nose up a bit. Ashton liked oreos but he wasnt a fan of the center. so he really didnt like the double stuffed kind. Now it didnt matter because he could just give the center to Peter. "but as far as us... well. Im not complaining am i?' he smirked again and kissed him. It was sweet but still held a bit of lustiness to it.</sup>

[PETER WALKER]

Peter had to laugh. He probably could have come up with something that was a lot better than that, but he didn't think he needed to. Actually, all PEter wanted to do was sit there in the arms of his boyfriend and just keep chilling out. It was hard for them to act the way they were in public simply because Ashton was still new to the whole relationship thing. Peter understood this and he never complained when Ashton would get nervous about PDA or holding hands. Actually, Peter never really complained about much of anything. That was one of the things Alex would always praise about him. No matter what happened to Peter... he wouldn't complain. He might mention it, but he would never dwell on it. Peter had quite the talent for thinking about others... if indeed that could be considered a talent.

The soft kisses from Ashton really helped Peter realize how real their relationship was. Ashton had already promised that it wasn't about sex, but now that Ashton could sort of control the sexual urge stuff, well, Peter enjoyed just being with Ashton. It didn't always have to come to sex. Peter loved being touched by Ashton, being kissed by Ashton, hell, he loved just about everything about Ashton. Peter didn't have to ask Ashton to do those things... he didn't have to ask Ashton to let him hold his hand in public or anything. It showed something to Peter that Ashton was willing to do those things anyway. He loved thinking that Ashton was willing to do that for him. But since Peter didn't pressure it... it told him that Ashton knew him too. Ashton knew him weill enough to know what would make him happier and what wouldn't.

"Mm, now that's a damn good answer." Peter said, pressing his lips gently against Ashton's once more. After he pulled away Ashton continued, no longer talking about the cookies, but about them. Peter smiled, happy with AShton's comment. He was glad that Ashton wasn't complaining. That meant something was going right with their relationship at least. Peter didn't like to worry that something wasn't going right. He liked knowing that he was happy and Ashton was happy... that was all they needed. Well, that was all that Peter needed. Before Peter knew it Ashton's lips were back on his. It was the kind of kiss Peter could enjoy without thinking that they would end up having sex even though Peter could feel that potential behind it.

Peter kissed back though he kept his own kiss in the 'nice' area. His fingertips moved down, curling around Ashton's waist, clinging to the fabric of Ashton's sweats. He wished he could do more for Ashton, but the drowzy feeling was starting to catch up to him. Peter broked the kiss and rested his forehead against Ashton's his eyes closed. "Sorry," Peter said, gently kissing Ashton's lips before pulling away again. "Lack of sleep is catching up with me."

[ASHTON JOHNSON]

<sup>Ashton smirked. Sometimes I like to think that I am smart he replied as he continued to kiss Peter. When Peter pulled away apologizing, Ashton gave him a confused look about to ask why, but then Peter continued, answering his unsaid question. Ashton gave a small shrug, kissing his lips back lightly before sitting up. "Its okay.. he said and then stood up moving around to pick up the cookies and set them down on Peters desk.

"hey..' he turned to look at peter on the bed. "I um.. I got you a gig... sort of. I mean I didn, but well you have to call the guy to set up a time and such. he gave a shrug. Ashton always felt... well not really weird, but... it was just .. different whenever he did something for Peter. He knew music was important to peter and he had been surprised that the only person that had contacted peter about playing, was someone to a club his dad had gone to. Of course that wouldnt do, so Ashton hadnt thought twice when he ran into a guy he used to party with. Apparently hed inherited this club when his dad died and was looking for some entertainment. Ashton knew it would be perfect for Peter.

Licking his lips he rubbed the back of his neck and gave another shrug. "so um.. yeah... he pulled a piece of paper from his pocket and handed it to Peter. "Thats his number... his names Robert, but.. he goes by Bob. he moved over to the TV and turned it on. You wanna watch anything?' he asked. or.. listen to ... something? he wasnt sure what Peter was up for, something to put in so he could go to sleep maybe.

Ashton looked down as LUna rubbed against his legs and he bent down, petting her, scratching along her neck. She started to purr loudly and he smirked, straightening back up and then looking over at Peter as he waited for his answer.</sup>

[PETER WALKER]

Peter kind of felt like he might have ruined a moment. That wasn't what he had wanted. He would go further, but he just didn't think that he could satisfy Ashton the way he wanted to with how tired he was. Luckily Ashton didn't seem to react like a moment had been ruined. His eyes followed Ashton has he moved up and around to put the oreos on the table. Peter seriously hoped he hadn't just ruined the whole night. Even though he was sure that if it had annoyed Ashton that he had backed out, Peter was sure that Ashton would forget about it later on. He leaned back against the headboard of his bed, missing the feeling of Ashton's body against his already. Peter felt cold without it, but he had to tell himself that he didn't need to get used to Ashton sleeping in his room.

When Ashton mentioned the gig Peter's big brown eyes naturally lit up. Peter definitely hadn't expected that. He knew Ashton cared about his music or Ashton wouldn't have bothered going to the first performance. After that Peter had been hoping to get a few mor offers, but there had been no dice and peter wasn't about to play at the club that his dad frequented. It was a bold move refusing an offer as a rising musician. But hearing that ashton had a gig for him, well, Peter was beyond happy. Peter nodded when Ashton said that he would be the one that would have to call and set up a date and time. He would be more than happy to do that. At one point Peter had been too nervous to play fully in front of people. But after that first show.... all of it had been left on stage. At that first show Peter had been feeling a strange mix of nerves and anger, but this time... he wanted the happiness there with him.

Peter reached out, taking the paper and looking at the number. He smiled, finally placing the paper on his nightstand in the pages of his song journal. That was a place that he wouldn't be likely to lose it. Peter settled down in the bed, laying his head on his pillow. "Bob," Peter said with a yawn escaping him. "Got it." His eyes focused on Ashton once more when Ashton asked if there were anything he wanted to watch. Peter shook his head. "Nah..." Peter said with a smile, his eyes already half closed. "You choose." He said, forcing his eyes to stay open. Why was it that he was so comfortable with the idea of sleep when AShton was there, but couldn't handle it on his own? It was confusing to Peter. Even though he had told Ashton that he slept better with him in there... Peter tried to make it sound like he was completely reliant on Ashton's sleeping with him. Peter wanted to think that the nightmares wouldn't stay long.

Finally Peter closed his eyes, breathing deeply. He wasn't asleep, but he felt peaceful enough to go to sleep. Wait- no- it wasn't peace... it was happiness. Peter knew that he was completely, totally happy right then. He looked down to see Hobo looking up at him with her big sad looking eyes. Of course, Peter caved. He twisted around and reached down, picking Hobo up. Peter placed Hobo on the bed next to him, but she wasn't quite happy with that area. Hobo sniffed around him a couple of times before finally curling up on his chest. Peter stroked her fur a few good times with a smile. Wasn't this what happy was supposed to be like? Peter thought it was... he believed that having Ashton, Hobo, and Luna really made him happy beyond belief. Or was it love? Peter still couldn't believe the L-word was floating around in his head like that. It wasn't normal.

[ASHTON JOHNSON]

<sup>Ashton gave a nod, the look on peters face was totally worth it. Ashton offered him a half smirk and a shrug as if it was nothing managing to seem as if it was all so casual and what not. Ashton was still getting used to the way his stomach felt and how light he felt whenever Peters eyes brightened and his face shone any time Ashton did something for him. Peter was a very attractive guy in general but whenever he looked like that it was multiplied times ten.

Ashton looked over at Peter, he had his eyes closed. Ashton didnt mind that Peter was so tired, he was over there to help him sleep better, keep the monsters at bay... hopefully. Peter putting an end to what may have happened wasnt that big of a deal, though Ashton wouldnt have minded if it had gone further. Ashtons need to have sex with Peter hasnt really lessened, in fact its probably gotten even more so, but mostly because evertime hes in proximity or if hes even touching Peter... even talking to him in general he cant help the way his body reacts or the way his thoughts go. Hed never been as attracted, sexual as well as mentally with someone as much as he is with Peter. The part thats really kind of freaky for Ashton is the fact that his worry over Peter and needing to make things better for him is just as intense.

Ashton frowned a bit, though more in thought, trying to decide what he would choose. He bit his lip then and moved over to where there were some movies and he picked a random one up, Moulon rouge... eh whatever it works. He put it in and then shut off the lights, the only light coming from the tv now. Moving to the side of the bed he pulled his shirt off and his sweats leaving him only in his black boxers. He hated being restricted while sleeping so he normally slept either naked or with boxers on.

Crawling in next to Peter he propped himself up on his elbow raising his brows at Peter and Hobo. "Thats not fair...' he even put on a small frown. "Where am I suppose to sleep?" he asked. "Hobo always gets what he wants...' he was managing to keep the smirk from his face, his expression and voice staying pretty serious.</sup>

[PETER WALKER]

Peter smiled at Ashton's choice. Moulin Rouge was always a good choice. He knew that he could trust Ashton's ability to pick good movies. As Ashton crawled into bed, Peter glanced over to him, still smiling even as he noticed the small frown accompanied by the raised eyebrow. Peter knew that Hobo had kind of taken over, but he figured Hobo could sacrifice one more night of sleeping with him. He chuckled at ashton's words. Even though AShton's tone was serious... he was starting to be able to tell when Ashton was joking and when he wasn't. That was a good thing because before there would be times when he just couldn't tell. But he felt like he was definitely getting a better read on Ashton. Peter didn't like being in the dark and now he was getting a lot more light shed on the relationship. The more they saw of each other, the more they talked... the better they seemed to function as a couple. It was motivation enough for peter to want to spend time with Ashton.

"Mm, she's so hard to resist." Peter said, turning his eyes to Hobo, who already seemed comfortable where she was. "But," Peter said with a tired smile. "Between her and you... i would rather cuddle up with you." Peter reached up and poked Hobo in the belly. "Alright, Hobaby, you know what to do." Peter said to the dog, fighting off another yawn. Hobo seemed to get the gist of what Peter meant for her to do. There had been other times when Peter would end up tossing and turning and Hobo would get frustrated with him. She would get up and move off to a corner of the room where Peter had eventually placed an old hoodie of his that he didn't wear often. That was where Hobo would go when Peter had nightmares. She didn't seem to like sleeping with him during those times.

Hobo lazily moved off of Peter, jumping to the floor and moving off to the hoodie in the corner. Peter smile as he moved closer to Ashton. He was already in his boxers. The only confining thing was his t-shirt. Peter sat up for a moment, removing his shirt and tossing it to the floor. He then slipped back down next to Ashton. Peter's body fit right nicely next to Ashton's. Peter loved how perfectly they seemed to fit. He gently kissed Ashton before resting his head on Ashton's shoulder. Carelessly, Peter draped one arm over Ashton's waist and laced their fingers with the other hand. Peter enjoyed the proximity. He liked being close to Ashton in more of a romantic way. Not that Peter didn't like getting sexual with Ashton, because he did. But he also liked a little romance.

Peter's eyelids were getting heavier and heavier. He was actually having trouble keeping his eyes open for once. Eventually Peter's eyes slid shut. The heavy breathing set into place. "Good night, Ash." Peter said in a soft, sleepy tone. "I love you." He said barely above a whisper before sleep claimed him.