Archive of Our Own

Thomas noticed Alex roaming the halls, peeking around each corner with suspicion in his eyes. Typical. Probably trying to avoid him. However when Alexander had slammed into Thomas a second later, he was all but screaming. 

Thomas was more concerned than annoyed about how Alex had just spilled whatever text books he gripped in his hands on the floor and was just standing there. He was staring at the floor as if he were a villain after a failure to succeed.

Once they locked eyes it knocked whatever trance Alex was in out. It was as if his attitude snapped into place like armor.  “What, you’re fucking stalking me?” He snapped, crouching to grab his books.

Thomas instinctively grabbed his arm before Alex ceased the interaction, raising a brow. “What’s up with you today? You’re already way more annoying than usual.” 

“Why do you care?”

Thomas froze. Why did he care? “It was pretty obvious you were sneaking around campus not even a minute ago,” Thomas said, brushing it off.

Alex shifted “Well,” His voice cracked slightly.

That's when Thomas noticed the bag Alex had been holding. It was clearly something different from the usual backpack. Something he probably didn't want noticed. 

“I was making sure you weren’t around, dipshit,” Alex choked out as soon as he noticed Thomas’s eyes darting to the back, clutching it tighter.

Then he stormed off, most likely in a direction he wasn’t meant to be headed.

Thomas watched him disappear in utter confusion, dusting off the hand he had touched him with. “The fuck?” He mumbled under his breath.

He sighed, assuming the best idea would be to pretend that confrontation never happened and head to his class.

Things ran smoothly—no, better than before after that little interaction. It seemed Alex had left early, reasons most likely having to do with that bag. What could it have been? An explosive? A one-way ticket to Paris? A wild animal? Well, maybe not that last one.

He was jolted out of his thoughts by a nudge to the shoulder. James. 

Thomas looked down to see he’d been tapping his pen against the desk like a maniac.

“Dude.” James asked, brow raised.

Thomas stiffened, placing the pen on the desk and sitting upright all in a swift move. He had been staring blankly at the wall instead of the lecture, probably resulting in weird looks from the students around them. “Sorry, ‘just got stuff on my mind.”

James gave him a calm yet mildly confused look. “You’re fine.”

A short pause between the two, before James added. “Is it school?” James asks, quiet and straightforwardly. “Stress?”

Thomas was about to give the real reason before biting his tongue in self punishment. He’d be sure James would think this situation is some sort of joke if he heard anything along the lines of ‘thinking about Alexander’, so he’d best not say anything about it.

“Mhm,” He hummed, keeping it short.

James gave him a thin smile, sensing something off but being polite enough not to say anything. “Laf told me he’s got a plan for us after class.”

Thomas smirked, much more excited than James’s grin. “I like the sound of that.”

Thomas didn’t know what to think when Lafayette had tilted his phone screen over, showing the club that had recently opened back up, just a few blocks away from campus and with many more attractions. He could only mutter a small ‘uhm’ before Lafayatte was already turned away from him, showing Hercules the same website.

James nudged his arm—again, indicating that he had yet again zoned out. “Sorry.” He said before James could comment anything. The attempt failed however, because Lafayette decided to speak up instead. “Mon ami? What’s the issue? You’re very much quieter than usual.” He asked. Thomas must be visibly distressed with all the looks he was given, showing agreement to what Lafayette had said.

“I’m just not the clubbing type,” He answered, unclenching his fists (why were they clenched in the first place?).

“Ha, it’s not just any club,” Thomas could hear the smirk on Hercules’s face when he said this. “Did you even read the site Laf showed you?”

Thomas nodded, despite the fact he was forcing a guilty look just so they could show it again. He has a thing for not admitting he’s in the wrong with words.

Lafayette gave him the phone instead, allowing him to scroll through. Once he read it thoroughly, he gave them a shocked look “A strip club?”

“Hell yeah-” Hercules was going to ramble more but was flicked on the neck by Lafayette, who took over the conversation. “Yeah. Us three were pretty frequent visitors.”

“Damn, you too James?” Thomas said, eyeing him. James was definitely the more reserved one of the group. Imagining him going out clubbing every night like a teenager is hilarious. 

James simply shrugged. “If I’m into it, surely you’ll like it too.” He wasn’t joking.

Hercules chimed in without Lafayette rudely stopping him this time. “Exactly!” He said, rubbing the back off his neck. “So are you coming? Same place at 7PM.”

Thomas decided to just give in, his life has been pretty uneventful lately. “Yeah, sure.”

The three friends cheered, high-fiving each other as if it was that hard to convince him. 

“Come on, let’s tell John we’re all going.” Laf said after they calmed down.

Thomas didn’t exactly question Laf’s decision, but he definitely should’ve.

Thomas has no clue what counted as club appropriate, so he threw on sweatpants and a T-shirt and called it a day.

Honestly, he didn’t even know what he was getting himself into. Strip clubs meant poles and money, right? That was all the knowledge he had, and it sent him spiraling.

Thomas yanked his keys off the hook and speed walked to his car, taking a few deep breaths.

He pulled into the campus shortly after, and was immediately greeted by his buddies waving and shouting something along the lines of, ‘Thomas! You actually came!’. He wanted to say ‘well of course I fucking did,’ but he felt that’d be too snarky for his liking.

They hopped in his car without consent, resulting in Thomas groaning loudly. “Seriously? Could’ve told me you guys didn’t have a ride before I got here.”

“Nah, we just prefer yours. It’s hella fancy.” Hercules said, getting himself situated. 

Thomas was relieved when James was the one who sat in the seat beside him. He could’ve sworn he heard a small ‘sorry, their idea’ from him, but it’d be too good to be true. 

Thomas’s car’s radio unfortunately needs repairing, so an uncomfortable silence filled the car as he started pulling up directions on his phone. He decided to strike up a conversation. “So, where’s John? Is he already there?” He asked, beginning to drive.

“Well, yes. He sort of…” Lafayette looked around for a bit before continuing. He was hesitating. “He works there.” 

“What?!” Thomas said that a little too loud. James had to correct his mind, quickly reading why he was so shocked. “He’s not a dancer. I don’t know his job exactly, but he can get us a free room.”

Thomas was a bit embarrassed as he heard the snickering from Lafayette and Hercules in the back of the car during the explanation. “Oh. Why do we need a free room?”

“Is that even a question?!” Hercules exclaimed. “It comes with free drinks plus a better view of the dancers. It makes the experience ten times better, man!”

Thomas simply rolled his eyes. “Okay then.” 

When Thomas put his eyes back on the road, he noticed the GPS was leading him to an area that dips down, trees covering the building perfectly. “Looks sketchy.” He said, brows furrowing.

Lafayette giggled. “It is best to keep clubs like these hidden, mon ami.”

Thomas took forever finding a parking spot, as if this place is some sort of amusement park. It ended up being in the very back, making it a long walk to the front doors.

“Are any of you willing to guide me through this?” Thomas asked, gulping down saliva to keep his composure. This felt unreal. He was at a strip club.

“I volunteer. You’ll love my help.” Lafayette threw him a wink, but Thomas looked away. “Quit trying to charm everyone.” James said. It sadly wasn’t enough to shatter Lafayette’s ego. 

Hercules held the door for everyone, only saying ‘ladies first’ after they were already hurled in to piss them off.

Thomas couldn’t hear the music, only the extremely loud bass, which was shaking the ground below them. “I can tell this place is loud.”

Hercules laughed. “Well duh.”

They were obviously required to flash their IDs to the receptionist before finally being let into this place. Lafayette made sure to stick at Thomas’s side, considering he’s his new ‘guide’.

“Where’s John?” Lafayette asked the two behind him. They shrugged, but James spoke up. “Don’t know. I’ll text him.”

A few seconds go by, and James is smiling. “He already has the room for us. Follow me.”

Thomas kept his head down once he entered the club, trying not to notice the intoxicated men and women. Lafayette shoved him. “Come on. Enjoy the view.”

He looked up for a single second and the blinding lights were already way too much. “Laf, I don’t want to go blind.”

Lafayette chuckled. “Pfft. You’re just nervous because you’ve never seen strippers before, aren’t you?”

Thomas groaned and walked past him, almost slipping on a few spilled beverages while doing so. “The fuck? Do they not clean this place?”

“Everyone’s drunk. It’s part of the charm..” Hercules winked. Thomas purposely squeaked his shoes against the floor to prove his point, receiving odd looks.

James put a hand on his forehead. “Oh my God. Thomas, you’re acting like a toddler.”

Snickers came from Lafayette and Hercules as Thomas squinted his eyes. “I’m just trying to express that clubbing isn’t for me.”

“And it’s funny.” Hercules choked. Thomas rolled his eyes. They were nearing their destination.

James opened the door to a long hallway. “What’s the number?” Lafayette asked.

“Eighteen.” 

When they stepped foot inside, John was obviously bored and scrolling on his phone. “John!” Lafayette shouted, snapping him out of it. “The fuck, Laf!?” He cursed, throwing his phone onto the table.

Thomas canceled out the chatting of his friends with his thoughts as he examined the room. There were a few fancy chairs, however no bed, and a singular table. This was easily a dancing room. For weird old men who want lap dances from literal teenagers, judging based on how young the dancers looked.

He found himself eased on one of the cushioned chairs. It was surprisingly comfortable.

John was now mumbling into Lafayette when Thomas zoned back in, probably discussing dumb drama or whatever. Maybe gossip revolving around the workers here, or something.

They snickered before straightening up and announcing “Grab your wallets, guys,” John said, “Y’all better tip these dancers well, especially—”

“Shhh!” Lafayette cut through. He realized it was pretty suspicious from the weird looks the others in the room were giving him, therefore continued “We talked about this. Quit favoriting dancers. It’s biased.”

John went with it, groaning extremely loud on purpose. “Fine.” He said, tugging at the stupid name tag he had to wear on his chest.

Thomas noticed that everyone but him and obviously not John had stacks of cash waving in their hands. 

Lafayette nudged him. “Where’s your money, mon ami?”

“In my wallet.” Thomas responded. No way they're willingly carrying fat stacks around. “You’re going to want to have it out to toss it onto the stage.” Hercules said while analyzing James’s money.

“I doubt I’ll even throw. It’ll be fine.”

The way the four began looking at each other only raised the suspicion Thomas already had even higher.

John got up from his seat and dusted himself off. “Allow me to lead you guys.”

Everyone but Thomas left everything but their cash and phones unattended as they left to get back on the floor. 

After a whole maze later, they were in the seats John had promised. In the dead front of the stage. Thomas still can’t get over how everyone is way too casual. They’re at a strip club, as if they’re thirsty drunk men in their 50s. And being right in the front is even worse. 

“Take a seat, Thomas.” Lafayette said, a playful smirk on his face, and Thomas did so. Thank the lord James noticed and moved to sit beside him as well. He’s practically an angel that’s been sent from the heavens.

There was clear discomfort on Thomas’s face, so Lafayette was quick to attempt to fix it. “Trust me, you’ll love it.”

“I’m already at the strip club, and I’ve already seen the strippers. What exactly are you implying?” Thomas’s brows furrowed.

“You’ll see.” Lafayette gave him a wink. Thomas turned to James on his right, wondering if he’d give him the reason. And of course he didn’t, and simply nodded, showing Lafayette was correct.

He didn’t know where to look anymore with his friends ‘betraying’ him like this. He instead looked up at the stage, noticing the lights had switched to a blinding hot pink while the rest being a shade of turquoise. “Ouch.” He whispered, praying only James would be the one hearing him.

He heard a loud ass voice appear over the speakers, and Hercules immediately gasped. John was standing beside them, as if he were monitoring them and actually doing his job. His smirk was just as wide and prominent as everyone else’s.

James leaned over and whispered to him, “They’re announcing the dancers.”

Thomas was confused. “Okay?”

James didn’t speak any further, except a small “They’ll come out in probably five minutes.”

Thomas had no idea as to why James was being just as weird as everyone else, but decided to finally push it aside. It must mean there’s some sort of twist.

The lady on the speaker’s rambling finally stopped and got to the actual point. 

The first few names were lost in the loud crowd, and Thomas rolled his eyes. Why was he even listening in—

“…and Alexander Hamilton.” Then it turned off.

Thomas‘s head immediately whipped around, eyes wide. “Did I hear that correctly?” He tried to keep his composure, as they are in a public place.

Lafayette bursted out laughing, while John gave him the real answer (yet he was laughing too).

“You sure did. Alex works here too.”

Thomas got up out of his chair in the midst of shock, stating “You can’t be serious! Oh my god, him?! On top of that you all were in on this which explains why we got these seats. Oh my fucking god, this is torture! You’re forcing me to-”

James began quietly chuckling while tugging on his jacket. “Calm down.”

“James, you too?!” He swatted his hand away. “I’m not watching my worst enemy dance on a pole half naked on a stage!”

Despite Thomas’s state, James continued. “You’re acting like you’re three years old. Sit down and we’ll explain.” Thomas wanted to say something else, but was silenced as he was pulled down back onto the chair. Lafayette had stopped laughing, therefore he definitely had something to say.

“The surprise wasn’t the strip club, Thomas. It was the show we’ll be watching in it. Plus, we all know how you look at our dear Alexander. Think of it as a gift.”

Thomas desperately tried his very best to not kill him as he spoke. “What the fuck are you implying?! I don’t like that little—Ugh!” He crossed his arms and Lafayette gave him an insincere pat on the back. “I know you’re going to like it, Thomas. No need to mask it.” He coaxed. His voice was much softer, so only Thomas could hear this.

Thomas stared at him, mumbling a small, “I don’t fucking like him, Laf.”

You’d think Thomas would be way more defensive in a situation like this, immediately storming out of the club and driving away without them. But no. Ever since James had sat him back down, he felt glued to the seat. Maybe even feeling anticipation. His hands fell onto his knees, which were moving from the slight anxiety his thought gave him. He doesn’t like Alex, and never has. Lafayette had just been teasing him so he didn’t run away. And it fucking worked.

Suddenly, fast-paced music blasted through the speakers, silencing the crowd. It wasn’t very loud, thank god, but it made him flinch, because he knew it was starting.

Thomas’s fingers moved to the armrests of the chair, digging his nails into the fabric. Lafayette snickered at this sight, before focusing his eyes back onto the real deal. 

Thomas refused to look, just until the clicking of the heels became less frequent.

When he looked up, his jaw dropped. His brain shut off.

“Oh my god, James…” He croaked, barely above a whisper. Thomas didn’t know why he turned to James specifically about this.

“Just watch.” Despite what he had said, James looked a bit shocked himself, considering he and Alex aren’t exactly on good terms, but he didn’t move an inch. Neither did Thomas. He couldn’t look away. He couldn’t even blink. His eyes were locked at the center of the stage, completely ignoring the dancers in the back.

Alex was clearly the leader of the show, doing a completely different routine than the rest, who were performing perfectly in sync.

To describe his outfit in the most brief way Thomas could, it seemed to be a set of light pink female lingerie, just tampered with to be way more sexy (not that Thomas thinks it is..). He wore stockings raised to be just above his knees, allowing for focus on his smooth, shaved legs. Not to mention how their length increased by the angle compared to his short torso. Thomas couldn’t help but wonder how they would feel. Possibly soft. Even his waist was feminine—no, his entire frame was feminine.

There’s his hair, instead of its usual uncared for, messy look or a casual slicked-back ponytail, it seemed silky and well brushed, spilling onto his shoulders and sparkling under the pink light. It waves around with each whip of his body, and it would’ve been rather beautiful if it wasn’t Alexander.

That’s another topic to cover: How smooth and professional he danced around the pole. It’s easy to infer he’s had many practices before-hand with the amount of skill radiating off him, and the way he kept a dumb smirk playing on his lips the entire time.

The makeup was the perfect touch that really helped him shine on the stage. It was harsh, glittery, and full of gems. Overall it was typical stage makeup, except on Alexander and way too complimenting against his delicate skin.

To conclude, Thomas has never analyzed Alex so thoroughly, and he definitely deserves tipping for making him do so.

Thomas dug his hands roughly into his bag, desperately searching for his wallet without taking his eyes off the stage. Lafayette, who was throwing a few twenties, was quite amused at this sight. “Wow, Thomas. Who knew you’d be tipping your ‘worst enemy’? It’s almost like he’s not.” He teased, hoping to earn a hard punch on the shoulder, but Thomas didn’t turn his head away, simply retorting, “It’s a strip club. What do you expect me to do, climb on stage and praise him?”

Lafayette smirked. “That wouldn’t be too bad. You’d finally be making a move.”

Thomas shot him a glare. “Hey, you’re throwing money too, and according to your logic that means you like him, does it not?”

“I’m supporting a friend, Thomas. That is very different. ‘Supporting an enemy’ doesn’t sound very correct, does it?” Lafayette quipped.

Thomas opened his mouth to snap at him, but something on stage happened that caught the two off guard, snapping the playful tension between them.

Alexander’s fingers finally grasped the metal pole, allowing him to climb and spin and do really fucking flexible moves on the thing. Realizing Lafayette had stalled him from tipping, Thomas panicked—grabbing fistfuls of cash and hurling them forward. 

All whilst he did this, Alexander began coming closer. Way too close. He attempted to shrink into the chair, thinking if Alex saw him it would for sure shift the mood of the entire rest of the dance.

He didn’t know if it was working yet. Alex was on his knees interacting with others and scooping up his earnings and piling them up, throwing a few on top of him. 

Thomas’s eyes grew wider, if that was even possible, and he began to feel heat pool down in his stomach, splashing around and causing him to shudder. If he examined these ‘symptoms’ correctly, that flutter in his gut wasn’t dread.

Oh god, this was arousing him.

Thomas gritted his teeth, watching the immigrant inch closer and closer to him by the second. Keep it together Thomas. Not helping.

Thomas’s breath hitched as soon as Alex was interacting with Lafayette, the person directly beside him.

They seemed to be communicating in a language only the two of them understood, or more likely just doing a secret handshake. (was that allowed?)

They mouthed a few more things to each other and soon enough, Alexander was getting up. Thomas sighed in relief, thinking of possible reasons as to why. Maybe he’d seen Thomas earlier while dancing and didn’t want to interact with him, deciding to stop at Lafayette.

His mind successively convinced him that was why, just until Alex had shot him a wink, beginning to wrap his legs around the pole once more.

Thomas tensed back up, practically hearing Lafayette’s shock and James’s confusion.

“What was that?” Thomas asked, trying not to sound too breathless.

James tried to give a reasonable response, but Lafayette sadly spoke first again. “My, it seems Alexander saw you, and even flashed you a wink!” He says almost excitedly. “You have a chance after all.”

Thomas finally snapped and slapped him. “Laf, I don’t like him!” He growled, before toning down once he saw Lafayette pout and rub the red mark on his cheek. “That stings.” He whined.

James pinched the bridge of his nose, joining their conversation with an annoyed sigh. “Okay first of all, the show isn’t over. Second of all, why are you two friends? And third, no violence.”

Thomas scoffed. “You’re acting like this is my fault. James, vouch for me and tell him I don’t like Alexander, because I don’t!”

James exhaled before speaking. “Thomas doesn’t like Alexander, and you guys should really get back to watching.”

“Then why’d he wink at me?” Thomas grumbled, much lower to show he was ashamed of asking the question.

“Maybe he didn’t know it was you.” James offered, yet he seemed unsure.

Panic returned to Thomas’s face.

Lafayatte noticed and patted him. “Calm down, mon ami. Maybe Alexander is a little friendly tonight.”

Thomas side-eyed him as he looked away, refraining from causing anymore drama.

He focused back on Alexander. He was spinning midway on the pool, laughing as more money showered on the stage.

John, who he forgot even existed, was shouting encouragement, though he didn’t look like he needed it. “That’s it, Alex!” He’d yell.

“John, please.” Lafayette called back, earning a glare.

“But Alex is doing so well! Just look!”

Thomas felt another wave of heat curl in his stomach as he listened, clenching his fists to prevent anything too blatant.

He turned over to see what John meant, and audibly gasped.

Alexander’s fingers were on his waist, toying with the waistband of his panties.

Alex being a strip tease was not on his clubbing list.

“Holy shit.” Is all Thomas could utter, gulping down saliva to prevent any other noise.

Lafayette smirked, as if he didn’t almost prevent this whole scene from happening. “Turned on?” 

Thomas became a bit too defensive. “What? No, I’m just shocked. I was worried he was about to rip them off. I’d have to avert my eyes away if so.” He did not want to sit near him ever again after this night, he just won't stop nagging him.

Thank god the show is almost over, Thomas feels as if he’s about to explode.

The dancing slowed as the song did, giving it more of a romantic slow dancing look. 

Thomas threw a few more bills, mesmerized at how Alex kept a steady rhythm throughout the entire song.

Then, the female dancers in the back began exiting the stage, waving their goodbyes. Alexander was last to leave, blowing final kisses to the crowd before dashing off.

“Damn.” James said, getting up and immediately stretching.

Lafayette grinned evilly, turning to Thomas. “So? Did you enjoy it?”

“I…” Thomas swallowed. “I need to use the bathroom.”

Lafayette’s grin slowly faltered as he watched him run off in a random direction.

Back in the room, everyone but Thomas had returned–dragged there the moment John received Alex’s text.

“Mhm, and after I simply teased him, he ran right off! What should we do? He was our ride!” Lafayette complained, making probably 20 hand gestures in that sentence alone. Hercules tried to be reassuring, but as usual he came off entirely different. “Do you only care because he’s our ride? Come on, he’s our friend! He’ll come right back. Plus, we still don’t know if he threw the most money. Who knows if it’s him?”

Lafayette huffed. “You’re not helping, Herc.”

Hercules rolled his eyes and slipped past him, right beside James, clearly fidgeting with concern.

Alex and John on the other hand seemed unbothered, chatting as they sat on the arm chairs. “So, how was the performance?” John asked. It sounded more like a question Alex should be asking him instead. Alex’s stomach churned as he responded, more in embarrassment than anger. “Well, it was going fine, until I saw that jackass in the audience! Why didn’t you tell me, Jack?!”

John laughed. “Why not? Plus, you played it off so well with that wink. He literally ran off as soon as it was over because of how much he loved it! Just won’t admit it, of course.”

“What?”

“He practically tossed his entire wallet on your stage, Alex. He tipped you crazy good money.” Alex’s eyes widened like a deer in headlights, unable to even mutter a small ‘he did that?’ in the moment. Because oh shit. If he did…

Actually, he should’ve guessed. There was strangely a large amount of bills sprawled across the floor at Thomas’s feet. 

He looked downwards at the stacks of money he earned bonded together with rubber bands, finally gaining his ability to speak. “No way.”

“Yes way. I’m sure ninety-percent of the money you earned came straight from Thomas. The least you can do is thank him–or maybe return the favor.”

Alex’s face burned crimson, beginning in a rather calm way before processing the words and spiraling. “I don’t like your tone—wait, what’re you implying?!” He spat.

John gave him a wicked grin. “Use your imagination.”

Alex grumbled angrily. “John, I’m a stripper, not a prostitute.” He said, straightforward.

“I thought it was club policy to award the highest bidder?”

Silence—well, only between John and Alex, as the other two in the room were erupting with laughter, and have been for quite a while. “Pfft! Don't remind him, Jack!” Hercules yelped.

“Need me to go out and search for him, Alexander?” Lafayette teased, chuckling harder as Alex’s composure dropped. “No! Oh my god, please don’t.”

John spoke up, his polite tone in contrast to what he was saying. “Actually, they sort of need him anyway. He’s their ride, and there’s no way I’m letting those two step foot in my car.”

Lafayette crossed his arms. “That sounded pretty backhanded, John.”

“Well–Well at least let me change.” Alex decided, searching for his clothing that gave him actual coverage.

“Why, Alex? You’re already presentable enough.” Lafayette said.

“Shut up, Laf.” Alex grumbled, tugging his hoodie on without bothering to take off the lingerie underneath. The lace itched. He pretended it didn’t.

“Fine, I’ll cut the teasing.” Lafayette threw his arms up in defeat, his smirk reducing to a thin smile–still just as mischievous. “I’m saying, you should go look for him. I insist.”

Alex actually laughed, before realizing he was serious and coughing awkwardly. “No way you’re serious. He just saw me perform up there–he knows I’m a stripper, which has got to be the least respectable job there is.”

“Okay? And he tipped you like he loved you. Listen, if you want me to go instead I can–”

“No!” Alex quickly cut through. The idea of Lafayette chasing after him and spreading lies and implying how Alex was ‘so excited to see him’ or ‘wants to thank him for the grocery money’ made him nauseous. He’d rather just go himself to speak the truth. And how he’s still being played. “I’ll go.”

“Great, then it’s settled!” John jumped up from his chair, chiming into their conversation. “Get your pants on and find him for these two–I mean three. Whatever.” Thankfully no one questioned his slip. He didn’t have a problem with James, just the two wild animals he’s probably forced to hang around.

Alexander kicked off his heels to slip on his sweatpants and slide his feet in a pair of sneakers. “Okay..” He breathes, shuffling his outfit to look more promising. “I’m going.” He tried to cover his voice crack with a fake sneeze before he bolted out.

 Alex tried to keep his head low as he speed-walked through the mob of drunk men. Some unfortunately recognized him and tried to reach out and grab his hood, which was tugged over his head in an attempt to hide himself. He angrily whipped his head over and spewed something rude, before walking slightly faster. Just keep walking, Alex. 

He shut his eyes when another group of men tried to seduce him, and began running for the nearest door he could slip into. Fuck the Thomas thing, he’s about to get assaulted.

Once his eyes blinked open, he could thank god the male bathroom was placed so conveniently in front of him.

He’s never been so happy to step into the bright, dirty club bathroom until now as he slammed the door behind him.
That was until he noticed Thomas at one of the mirrors, his phone up against his ear as he mumbled nonsense.

Alex tuned in, tugging his hood to cover more of his face as he slipped into a stall. At first it was just him frantically speaking random shit, until he said something that changed Alex’s course of thought.

“I’m sorry–I just, I didn’t think I’d spend so much money–please don’t tell James. I still haven’t told him the full amount.” Alex peaked through the door, and cracked a grin as he saw Thomas immediately jolt after he said that. The caller must’ve been mad, he inferred. 

Another thing he could make an educated guess on–it seemed Thomas was just as nervous about the situation as Alex is, or was, because all the fear practically drained out of him the longer the call went on. He was in the mood for teasing, especially after all the stress caused by the idiots back in the room.

Soon enough, Thomas was placing his phone on the counter and grumbling in frustration. 

That was when Alex emerged from the stall, pulling off his hood. “Thomas?”

Thomas heard the familiar voice and quickly tensed up, slowly turning with wide eyes. “Alexander.” He realized.

“Well,” Alex couldn’t bring himself to look at him. “I wanted to thank you.”

Thomas cocked a brow, not expecting such words to come out of his mouth. “For what?”

“I could probably buy a nice tie–or a shirt with the money you gave me.” Alex said, chuckling awkwardly. “Thanks, you didn’t have to.”

Thomas began to spiral–did he really not care? “You’re welcome?”

After a moment of silence, Alex finally asked the question. “So, why’d you do it?

Huh. Why did he do it? 

His mouth opened to speak before he mentally answered the question. “I just–well, I, I thought…I thought you looked confident. I didn’t expect it, and well… in the heat of the moment,”

“I see,” Alex began fondling with the drawstrings of his hoodie. “So you liked it?” His smirk wasn’t forced as usual.

Thomas scoffed, hiding whatever else he had inside him. “Oh, quit with the teasing, Alexander.” 

Alexander was still intently staring at him, expecting an answer. Thomas gave up his act. “I think the money I spent is a good enough answer for you.”

”Who would've known.” Alex said, dramatically. “What could I ever do to repay you?”

His tone was teasing, yet Thomas tensed up, clenching his fists. “If you want me to bring the three back, I most certainly will.” He breathed.

Alex shrunk back. 

“Follow me.” 

It was more like an order, considering the way Alex grabbed Thomas’s wrist and dragged him out himself. Alex felt relaxed knowing the alcoholic men would step down seeing a taller man by his side, which is mainly why he forced Thomas to come without receiving any approval to do so.

Once they crashed back into their room, John was the first to notice. “Shit, you need me to give you guys some alone time?” John asked, darting his eyes downward.

Alex cocked a brow, following his gaze before realizing he was staring at his hand. And how it was interlocked with Thomas’s. He didn’t remember doing that. He jerked his hand away. “Thomas, since when were we—Oh my god Jack quit laughing!” He snapped. 

John quieted down, grabbing Thomas’s abandoned car keys and fidgeting with them. “Fine. I’ll get to the point.” He began.

“Thomas, I can easily send those three to go drink something at the bar, or watch the next show that’s in like twenty minutes. Or both. How’s that sound?” John’s smile grew throughout the sentence.

Thomas gave him a look of suspicion, though he knew exactly what he was implying. “I came to take them home. I’m not sure why you’re offering that.”

John’s lips settled into a small smirk as he began to swing the keys in a circle. Thomas could tell he was still hiding something.

“You sure?”

Alex inhaled sharply as he processed the words. “Look, Jack, I was teasing him and that’s that. Nothing escalated.” He admits, stepping closer. Why was he arguing? They both know the outcome.

John carried along. “So why were you two—”

“There’s so many creepy men here, maybe I got afraid and involuntarily slipped my hand into his. That’s it. You’re making it weird.” 

The two went back and forth for a bit until they finally settled down. Not to an agreement about what happened, but an agreement to end this stupid argument. 

Thomas looked around nervously before asking, “Should I take them home?”

Alex turned his head, giving him a look. Thomas couldn’t puzzle what it meant, but he felt something rush through him from it, causing him to speak up once more. “Actually—where are they?” He asked. Because they indeed were nowhere to be seen. 

“At the bar already.” John replied smugly. That’s when it clicked, and John could tell as he tossed Thomas his keys back. “I should get going.”

“Jack…wait, I’m not ready.” Alex said. John gave his arm an encouraging squeeze. “Not my choice.”

I should’ve read the details more carefully. Is what flew through Thomas’s mind immediately.

John had already flown through the door, leaving them all alone.

“Thomas, let me explain.” Alex said, inching closer once Thomas didn’t protest.

“I’m—I’m sorry. I didn’t explain it all to you. That group, especially Laf, thinks it’s so funny to lead people down a mental spiral. I was asking if you liked it because—because it was a way of asking for consent. I could tell you didn’t know, and I’m sorry because I’m also one of the assholes in this situation.” He sighed before getting to the worst part.

“It’s—It’s tradition to hook up with your highest bidder, not because it’s fun or whatever but because they complain saying they ‘wasted their money.’ Stupid. So it became normal to do it before they shout at the workers. Uh, you’re obviously not, but I’m sure they’ll get mad if they see me doing anything but getting laid,” He said, before blurting “But, I uhm, don't really mind right now.” He’s always had a small thing for Thomas, and it only increased drastically ever since he got on stage.

Alex clenched his fists and braced for whatever Thomas had to say.

“It’s fine. I knew those idiots had multiple tricks up their sleeves from the start. Starting with you being the dancer up there, and now this. It’s partially my fault for not looking into the website enough. And I’m sorry too. We’re enemies and I decided to be a thirsty pervert and tip you at least 75% of my wallet. Now we’re here.” Thomas’s cheeks burned, unable to look Alex in the eye.

Alex fell forward at the confession, and it took a moment for Thomas to process he was being hugged. 

Once he recognized it, he immediately embraced it. 

“Correction: we were enemies. Specifically this morning.” Alex mumbled against his chest. 

“I know.”

Once they let go of each other, Alex had a different look in his eyes as he spoke. “Is the door locked? I can’t tell.”

Thomas turned around and nodded. “Sure is.”

That’s when Alex’s lips crashed against Thomas’s in one heated motion, lacing his fingers up and down his body. At first it caught Thomas off guard, with the sweet affection from earlier, but he soon enough kissed back. Just as rough. Just as passionate.

Thomas easily took over the kiss, shoving his tongue inside and savoring the sweet taste of Alex’s mouth. God he could do this forever.

The more Thomas explored the humid mouth, the more his thoughts were fogged. The only thing he could picture was ravishing him.

Alex moaned before pulling away for air, panting with a hungry look in his eyes. “Fuck, Thomas—I’ve wanted this for so damn long…” He breathed.

Alex guided Thomas to the desk, allowing himself to fall on top of it.

Thomas swiftly lodged himself between Alex’s legs, leaning down to kiss at his neck. “You have no idea how much I’ve needed this too, baby,” Thomas drawled between kisses, the pet name slipping out unintentionally. Neither of them were complaining, though. 

Alex tries to tug at his hoodie, unsuccessful at taking it off. “You want that off, Lex?”

“Mhm, help—Thomas,” Alex said incoherently as his hoodie was flung up and over his shoulders.

Thomas smirked at the sight of Alex in his lingerie. “So beautiful.“

Alex’s breath hitched when he felt Thomas’s hands groping his upper body, sliding fingers beneath the lace. “Fuck, that’s so good… please Thomas,”

Thomas hummed, his hands tracing lower and lower. “Need me to touch you down here, darlin’?”

Alex nodded eagerly, spreading his legs wider. Thomas accepted the invitation and inched the sweatpants down and off his body, his shoes following afterwards. “You kept it all on, huh?” Thomas said, caressing the new exposed parts of his body.

He gives Alex’s thighs a few squeezes, resulting in a high-pitched mewl. “Touch me, please keep touching me,” He whimpered.

“So polite, I guess I have to give in.” Thomas complied, dipping a hand into the lace panties and palming the hard cock underneath it. “Is that good, baby?”

“Thomas—oh fuck,” Alex bucked his hips into the touch, relief flooding over him. “Yes, yes that’s so fucking good oh my god.”

Thomas sped up his movements, tearing off the panties to allow a full view. His stomach flipped when he noticed Alex was shaved everywhere. “Good. So good, Lex.”

“I’m—I’m gonna, oh, please,”

Thomas gave his cock a few more strokes before letting go entirely. 

Alex whined in protest. “What the fuck—why’d you…” He huffed.

Thomas gave him an innocent shrug, as if the answer was obvious. “You can’t come yet, love.” He cooed, kneeling down to kiss his forehead.

Alex let out a stifled whimper at the affection. “Okay…”

Thomas lifted his legs up and got on his knees. “Where’s the lube?” He asked breathlessly.

Alex let out a quiet ‘oh’. Was there even time? What if he’s called on stage? Fuck, if he’s so nervous he may as well answer.

“That drawer.” Alex said, pointing to a compartment on the table. Sure enough, there was a half-empty bottle of lubricant.

Once Thomas slicked his fingers up and pushed them against his hole, he noticed something. Alex’s inner thighs were lined with bruises. “Alex, baby, what happened?” He asked, eyes flickering with concern.

Alex panicked and tried to shut his legs, but Thomas’s firm grip prevented him from doing so. “C’mon, tell me.” 

“It’s just—it’s just from past customers.” Alex responded with a sigh.

Thomas’s hand ghosted over the markings. “Do they hurt?” His voice was soft.

Alex shook his head. “Only a bit, but I’m fine. Please—please hurry.”

Thomas decided to push the worry aside once he felt Alex press down onto his fingers urgently. He shoved two digits inside his opening, his ass swallowing them down completely. “Yes!” Alex hissed, his cock twitching from the feeling. 

Thomas smirked, thrusting the fingers at a steady pace. He added a third one, thanks to Alex’s history of hooking up with strangers. “You’re so fucking sexy,” Thomas said, curling his fingers and savoring Alex’s delighted shrill in response. “Oh my god, Thomas, I—I need,”

“What is it, Lex?” Thomas asked, words honeyed in contrast to the rough movements of his hand. 

“I need, I need you—please, Thomas, fuck me,” 

“Okay,” Thomas whispered, removing the fingers and getting back on his feet. “Just a minute.”

Alex shuddered with desire, wrapping his legs around Thomas’s waist. “Come on—please Thomas,” He pleaded, bucking his hips into nothing.

Thomas untied his pants and let them drop to the floor, pulling his cock out through his boxers. Alex’s gaze fixated on his length almost immediately, a growing amount of lust engulfing his body. “Please,” he keened, licking his lips.

“Just a little longer and I’ll fill you up, okay baby?” Alex nodded, unable to mask his impatience.

Thomas slicked his cock up with the lube, giving it a few languid strokes. Alex stretched his arm out, trying to yank Thomas closer but only looking more desperate than he already is.

Thomas leans in to capture Alex in one last demanding kiss, lining himself up while doing so. Alex kissed back the best he could, unable to focus thanks to the cock threatening to plunge into him.

Alex pushed him off. “Quit teasing,” He said between hot breaths.

Thomas snorted before finally easing into Alex’s tight heat. “Fuck.” He hissed.

The deeper Thomas pushed in, the more Alex became absolutely wrecked, slowly reducing into satisfied moans.

“Oh, Lex, you’re so good,” Thomas cooed once he was fully nestled inside him.

Alex shivered at the praise, tears beginning to slip out of his eyes—wait, why? Alex has taken at least twenty people. Whether that be anal or oral or simply making out, it didn’t matter. Alex shouldn’t be crying from a cock. A cock that’s overwhelmingly large, but that’s besides the point.

Thomas’s gaze softened, his hand reaching to cup his cheek and swipe the tears away with his thumb. “Alex? What’s wrong? Does it hurt?”

Alex leaned against the touch, doing his part by wiping the tears away with his own hand. “No, no, It’s fine—I’m fine, please keep going,” He reassured, coming off breathless.

Thomas took a deep breath before rolling his hips, gentle yet satisfactory. Alex could tell Thomas didn’t want to bruise him more than he already was. “This good, darlin’?” He asked, his breaths shaky the more he fucked into him. 

Alex's vision blurred from the bolts of pleasure flying through his body, long moans spilling out of him. “F-fuck, it’s perfect, oh,” He stuttered.

Thomas groaned and gripped Alex’s waist, beginning to thrust at a quicker and steadier pace.

Alex made an obscene noise, hands digging into his stockings and almost ripping them apart. Thomas was going to protest because he didn’t want Alex destroying his sexy lingerie, but he decided not to.

Or maybe Thomas did, because he responded to Alex’s action by instead pounding harder. Only small hints of gentleness to check on Alex’s wellbeing every now and then.

Alex’s body began to quiver and set aflame from the sudden shift in Thomas’s rhythm. “Thomas, oh, I—I feel,”

“That’s it. You’re taking it so well.” Thomas’s hands slipped into Alex’s top, flicking the sensitive buds underneath. 

Alex gasped. Oh my god, he can’t, he’s going to—

“Gonna come for me, baby girl?“ Thomas smirked at the way Alex’s cock jumped in reaction to his words, and how he nodded frantically. “Oh god—don’t stop, please don’t—”

With a rough thrust, Alex was pushed beyond his limit, his vision going white 

For a few seconds, he was gone. The only thing he could feel was the rush of pure pleasure, and the warm come landing on his stomach in messy strips. His mouth was parted, crying noises that were cancelled out by the heat fueling his cock.

Thomas’s cock twitched at the sight, and at how fucking tight Alex clenched. He leaned down, muttering praises into Alex’s ear as he fucked him through his climax.

Alex slowly came down from his high, spasming from after shocks. “That—That was fucking amazing…” He pants, putting a hand on his softening cock.

Thomas groped Alex’s ass as his thrusts became erratic, feeling his own climax building up. “Alex, fuck,” 

He slowed down before finally releasing himself inside of Alex, tossing his head back in a moan.

It was electrifying, not just for Thomas.

Alex jolted as he felt the warmth pool inside him, as if he’d been stuffed to the brim. How stupid of him, to not remind Thomas about wearing a condom—or maybe it was because he didn’t ask? 

Or both? Yeah, both. So what?

He was too blissed out to think coherently.

Alex’s voice was hoarse, unable to say more than his name. “Thomas,”

“Shit—Alex, I’m so sorry—I’m stupid,” Thomas confessed once he realized the severity of what he’d done, pulling out in a hurry.

Alex outright moaned from the feeling of being left gaping, but swallowed any more noises down after processing Thomas’s words.

“Wait, no—Thomas, it’s fine.” He said, hand reaching to fondle with Thomas’s hair. Thomas didn’t protest the affection, only his words. “No, it’s not. I had every ability to pull out, or realize and end it fast, but I didn’t.” 

Alex’s fingers clenched the curls, almost causing Thomas to wince. “Do I look like I care?” He laughed, “If I didn’t remind you I think I would want you to finish in me, and hey, you enjoyed it right?”

Alex’s digits returned to their original soothing movements, carding fingers through his scalp. Thomas gritted his teeth. 

“Okay.” And just like that, he collapsed onto Alexander, relaxing his tensed muscles. 

Speaking of muscles, Alex hadn’t realized how much they ached until now, wincing softly. ’Hard work pays off’, huh?

After what seemed like years of embracing each other, Alex pushed him off to get up.

“Wait, Alex. Are you not uncomfortable?” Thomas asked, obviously referring to the load he had shot inside him. 

“Nah.”

It took all his strength to pry himself off the sweat covered table, groaning softly at his sore legs. He tried not to make it blatant, worrying Thomas more would probably get annoying.

What a night.

Alex spent the next few weeks replaying that event. 

The way Thomas gave him the best aftercare he’s ever gotten, the way Thomas immediately questioned if he should have taken him home instead, considering the table wasn’t the most comfortable option, etcetera. Thomas cared about him, and always has. He could recall when Thomas brought him his favorite cup of coffee on a bad morning, excusing the kind gesture by saying he ‘didn't want him to be grumpy because it would drive him crazy’, and how Thomas actually defended him against Burr one day. There was definitely more, but Alex couldn’t think right now, simply cracking a smile. He hated that he liked remembering it.

Unfortunately the smile turned into a grimace when he remembered what else happened.

John had gone around the club telling their coworkers that Alex was ‘mid-hookup’ in an attempt to embarrass him. Alex wasn’t too mad, he’s a stripper after all, but the problem was he told everyone but James, Lafayette, and Hercules, leading them to spiral once he and Thomas stepped out of the room disheveled. ‘It was obvious.’, they’d say, ‘Laf, give me my twenty bucks.’. 

Alex had rolled his eyes and said, ‘You shouldn’t have betted on it. It's not my fault Thomas was the guy tonight.’

Thomas gave him a playful shove once he had said that.

Currently he’s in his dressing room, adjusting himself. Thomas by his side was helping him tighten one of the straps of the top. 

“You look stunning.” Thomas whispered against his ear, patting his shoulder once the top was secure enough.

“What a charmer.” Alex snorted, but didn’t protest when Thomas pressed a chaste kiss against his hair. “Thanks.” Thomas obviously recognized the sarcasm but played along anyways.

Alex turned and gave Thomas a surprise peck on the cheek, leaving him starstruck. He took the opportunity to strap on his heels. “You seem stunned, not like I haven’t done more than that,” He said with a chuckle.

Thomas shook his head as if to snap out of it, scoffing. “Whatever.” He didn’t want to argue.

Once Alex was confirmed ready by staff, the lady got on the speakers and gave her speech. 

Alex leaned against the doorframe, getting impatient. “She sure loved to ramble.” He said, rolling his eyes. Thomas smirked, but held the snarky comment in his throat, something else coming out. “I think she’s telling you to break a leg.”

Alex gasped dramatically. “Did she?!” 

“Not literally, idiot.” Thomas said, wrapping his arms around Alex before he could shout at him. “You will. I know you will.”

Warmth spread throughout Alex’s body as he softened. “Thanks.” He said, hesitating before muttering a much quieter ‘I love you’.

“I love you too, Lex. So much.” Thomas returned, swiftly kissing Alex’s forehead before hearing his name coming from the speakers. “That’s your cue.”

Alex simply nodded before getting in ‘character’, turning to go. “Have fun!” Thomas called, hoping he had heard as he strutted onto the stage with a booming smirk.