Broadway Darling

Tess O-Meter -- Green.

You can dip in and out of this unexpected series, but for a richer read and character development they are best when read in the order of writing.

Therefore, I would suggest, if you enjoy this, then go back to the beginning.

Correct order is, Broadway Lust Story, Broadway Love Story, Broadway Luck Story, Broadway Beginnings, Broadway Bust, Broadway to Vegas, Broadway Betrayal, Broadway Battle, Broadway Break, Broadway Threat, Broadway Baby, and Broadway Darling.

-X

Ty felt his grandfather's hand cover his. He must have been tapping the arm rest again. He turned his head and smiled thanks into dark eyes that were a mirror of his own.

In the next seat up, his grandma, who looked amazing in dark blue, gave him an encouraging smile.

There was no doubt that he was more nervous than Tony.

Taking a deep breath, Ty looked to his left and met Tony's grin.

It had been quite some experience getting glammed up and chauffeured (by Thomas, his boss, Cal's driver) to the Tony Awards. Ty and Tony had left their wardrobe up to Frank and Pip. Assisted by half the Engagement team, it seemed.

Dan and Gabi, Tony's parent's, had been due to attend with them, but were now watching with Tony's family, friends and neighbours back in Philadelphia, due to Dan having had a minor operation on his knee that Tony wouldn't allow him to postpone.

It had been a last minute change, but Frank had taken it in his stride. Saying he and Cal would come, and then producing Ty's grandparent's, flown up from Florida, as a surprise.

Both Tony and Ty had been amazed and thrilled to find Frank's door thrown open by his grandma this evening. Ty had been even more astounded to walk in and see Frank putting the finishing touches to his grandpa's long thick braid.

Never in his life had he seen anyone but his grandma touch his grandpa's waist length hair.

"All done," Frank had proclaimed. "It's great for conditioning. I'll put some aside for you."

"Smells nice too," Grandpa Maka had proclaimed, before standing and greeting his grandsons.

Ty's grandparents had pretty much adopted Tony within a few seconds of meeting him. Then several years later, once Ty and Tony were married and Tony fit and well, they had made it official via a Hopi elder who Frank had tracked down in New York to perform a 'mostly authentic, semi-adjusted, worked for them' ceremony in which Ty's grandad claimed Tony as his grandson in spirit.

Tony had then astounded everyone present (apart from Frank and the elder) by claiming Ty's grandparents as his, and promising that with or without Ty he would be as a son and friend to them always. (Not that he was EVER going to be without Ty. Hello?)

It had been beautiful and respectful, the Hopi elder and Cal were the only people who didn't get teary eyed. (Cal later admitted that it had cost him.) Tony had even managed some words in the language of the Lakota, which Ty hadn't understood, because he didn't practise enough, but his grandma had cried and hugged Tony like she would never let him go. Ty never had found out what he said.

Now, Ty hugged them both, delighted with the unexpected visit.

How Frank had pulled everything together in a couple of days, Ty had no idea. But his grandma looked outstanding in her dark blue, shimmery dress, with a beaded choker.

His grandpa had a dark grey suit that fitted perfectly, and had a matching beaded edging.

Frank had even managed sympathetic and respectful use of colour in the beading. He must have been cramming Lakota traditions and crafts. The man was a miracle.

Grandpa Maka had told them in the car how honoured and respected they had felt by Frank's care and attention. And how sweet Frank's nervousness had been.

They knew Thomas would report back how pleased they were. And Thomas, winking at Ty in the mirror, knew they knew.

Tony had been nervous, but on finding their seats he had inexplicably calmed down. Stating that he was sat too far back and pointing out other nominees who were much closer to the stage.

"It'll be one of them," Tony said firmly, seemingly relieved, and pointing out two Broadway stars who had an extra decade or more on him.

"Then why is Izzy presenting?" Ty questioned.

Tony rolled his eyes. "Because this is the first year in ages she hasn't been nominated. They grabbed the chance while they could. And what else is she going to present, but this award?"

Ty wasn't so sure.

It wasn't just that Tony was outstanding in a draining and demanding production. But 'Finding a Way' and the Jackson Derby story had really captured the public's imagination. And also been picked up for highlighting the bullying and abuse that was, sadly, still an issue in the entertainment industry.

So far tonight the show had dominated, and collected six awards.

Randall, who had won Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical, two years ago, for 'Empty Nights'. Had only just returned to his seat from collecting Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical.

He had joked that he would be going for best actress next year, but was clearly thrilled. He had stopped to shake Tony's hand on his way back to his seat, which as Tony pointed out, was closer to the stage.

"Well, if you do win, you should plant one on him as you go past. The crowd will love that." Next to Ty his grandpa chuckled.

"I won't win."

"If you do. I dare you."

"Whatever, Ty." Tony had scowled and watched the next award be presented.

Now Ty turned his hand over so he could grip his grandpa's, as Izzy was applauded onto the stage.

Looking stunning, she introduced the nominees and they all watched the short clips and applauded politely after each one.

There was good humoured groaning and laughing when Tony's clip came up. Everyone was seeing rather a lot of 'Finding a Way' tonight!

Izzy took a deep breath. "And the winner for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical, is."

She cracked open the envelope, her face lighting up.

"Anthony Thomas-Risio for 'Finding a Way'. Oh my God, Tony get up here!"

Ty's heart stopped, and he turned to Tony who was staring at the stage with a look of astonishment. Completely ignoring the approaching cameras.

Someone in the row behind them gave him a half congratulatory shoulder slap and half nudge to get moving. Ty turned and saw a grinning Hollywood superstar.

Then Tony finally moved. Only to look at Ty. "But?"

Ty gave him a brief kiss and then pulled back grinning. He knew he had tears on his cheeks, but didn't care. His heart had never felt so full. So much love. So much pride.

"But!" Tony said again.

Ty was pushed aside as his grandfather leaned over.

"Tony." He instructed sharply. "Act!"

"Yes, Sir." Tony automatically rose to his feet, sending one last wild look at Ty, and starting to walk.

More than one person was on his feet, including Randall, who grabbed Tony and kissed him, almost as if he had heard Ty's dare.

Tony was still sniggering after he had wriggled free and been directed onto the stage, where Izzy grabbed him in a swaying hug.

Then the glittering award was in his hands and he was pushed gently towards the microphone.

Ty noticed he kept a firm grip on Izzy and took her with him. His eyes wide and slightly terrified as he gazed at the audience.

"Okay, you've done this before, right?" he asked Izzy.

A pro to the core, she stepped closer and wrapped an arm around his waist, so the mic could pick up her voice. "Once or twice." The audience laughed. "Please tell me you prepared a speech?"

Tony winced, "Sorry!" More laughter.

But he was over the worst now and took a deep breath.

"Wow. Okay, so. Obviously, thank you. To everyone," he waved a hand as if indicating the entire world. Then took a steadying breath.

"I think it's clear from the awards that 'Finding a Way' has collected tonight, just how much goes into a production and how much of a team effort it is." There were a couple of whoops and some applause.

"They don't have a Best Performance by a Physiotherapist in a Musical, or Most Supportive Stage Door Guru, but they really should, because without the whole team it's not possible." Now there were cheers and applause.

"No one can do this alone," Tony continued when it quietened a little. "My deepest thanks to all of my family and friends. My colleagues and team, and incredible supportive fans. You all know who you are and how much you mean to me."

He squeezed Izzy close and took another fortifying breath. "But before I get dragged off, I also have to thank," he pointed into the room. "Sat out there with our wonderful grandparents. My husband. For supporting me through dance class, pushing me to singing lessons, and being with me through incredibly challenging times. Most of all, for always believing in me. I love you, Ty."

Tony's voice cracked on Ty's name and he dipped his head, then grinned ruefully and blew a kiss. Unable to speak anymore.

Ty watched as Izzy kissed Tony's cheek and led him carefully from the stage. Thanking his grandma when she pushed a tissue into his hand.

Then flushing when his grandad, looking delighted, pointed out the camera that was filming him being an emotional disaster.

Great. Just great.

-X

Just under two hours later, Tony dragged Ty into Frank's office.

Everyone was at Engagement, which had limited performances and capacity tonight, so the whole 'Finding a Way' production and anyone else who wanted to, could come along to celebrate.

Frank and MC were busy lining the eight Tony's up along the bar. Which included MC's Best Direction of a Musical, and Best Musical, which MC had sent the stage manager and one of the wig ladies up to collect. They had been more prepared than Tony was, and had repeated his team effort statements.

Tony still seemed slightly stunned, and Ty felt like he could fly. Was it possible to burst from happiness?

The door slammed and Ty was shoved back against it, as Tony's mouth attacked his.

He gripped Tony's hips and let him take. And take.

Slowly starting to rub circles on Tony's hips, gradually increasing in size, until it was over his back and down. Gently and slowly. Calming him.

Tony's hands relaxed in Ty's hair and his kisses gentled, until he broke free and pushed his face into Ty's neck, letting Ty's arms slip fully around and hug him close.

"Okay, my baby?"

One of Tony's hands lowered to stroke Ty's chest. "Yea. Sorry. I just needed," his voice faded.

"What?"

"You." Tony pressed closer. "I needed you."

"I'm always here, baby. I'm right here."

Tony let out a breath and then pulled back to smile into Ty's eyes. He was flushed from excitement and still looked slightly shell shocked. "This is insane," he claimed.

"No," Ty let his hand coast down Tony's back in another firm sweep. "You deserve it," his hand moved over Tony's hip. "And I'm gonna reward you real good later," as his fingers now danced with cheeky precision over Tony's balls and cock. Pressing gently as Tony gasped and firmed slightly, before roaming up his laddered abs and on to his chest.

"Jesus. Bastard." Tony complained, pressing himself against Ty for relief as Ty's naughty fingers slid around his neck now and brought him down for another kiss.

They kissed and giggled for another few moments, until there was a soft tap on the door.

"Yea?" Ty called.

"Disengage boys. Playbill need Tony out here for an interview. And wipe my desk down."

Ty pulled the door open to glare at Frank. "We're not doing anything."

Frank's smug grin had fallen into sheer horror as he pushed past Ty to grip Tony's shoulders. "Sweet Jesus. Look at the state of him!"

Ty leaned back on the door frame and grinned. To be fair, Tony did look a bit dazed, well kissed, and very turned on. His hair was a mess as well.

Frank scowled and pushed Ty into the corridor. "Tell them he'll be out in five." Then he slammed the door.

Chuckling, Ty went and found the Playbill team speaking with Randall. He passed on the message and went to fetch them some drinks. He knew most of them from benefit performances. They were always generous with their coverage for a good cause.

Ty hovered by the bar for ten minutes, until he saw Tony come out and head over.

Urgh. Whatever Frank had done, which was surprisingly subtle for Frank, but Tony looked like sex on legs. Wincing as he hardened, Ty decided Tony had enough support with Randall, and abandoned ship while he could still walk.

-X

Ty spotted Randall's eldest, Byron (his mom was very romantic), heading into the back passageway. Byron was actually Randall's step-son, not that he ever mentioned the step part, and they couldn't be any closer. Byron had been around four, Ty thought, when his parents met. His father having passed away when he was a baby.

Ty and Tony had gone to a party at their house one time, when they were doing 'Empty Nights' and Byron and Randall had spent half an hour showing them all the pictures around the house that illustrated his mom and father's relationship and first few months that they had together when Byron was a baby.

There had been three sets of grandparents at the party and Bryon's-father's-dad, had joined them to add to some of the stories. He (Ty forgot his name) had told Ty how happy it made him that Bryon's second dad was so determined to make sure he didn't forget his father.

Apparently all three sets of grandparents went on holiday together once a year. The ladies in the spa, while the gents went fishing. Ty wasn't entirely sure if it was sweet or weird. However, he had loved the fact that the photos had been spread through all the more recent photos, making Bryon's father a current part of their lives, not pushed into the past.

What he was sure of, although he didn't know him super well, was that Byron was not his normal cheerful self, and considering his dad had just won a 'Tony' he should be buzzing like his little sister. Maybe more so, as at thirteen, he understood better than she did.

He followed quietly, and in time to see Bryon wipe his face on his sleeve and put his phone away quickly when he heard someone coming. "Oh. Hi, Ty."

"Hey, Bryon. Exciting night. Why you hiding back here?"

"Not," his cheeks flushed. "Not hiding, I just wanted," Ty smothered a smirk as Bryon obviously searched his brain for a reason. "Um, a different drink." He wrinkled his nose at the bottle of Coke he was holding.

"What's your poison?" Ty asked, in a deliberately rough voice, like he smoked twenty packs a day when he wasn't drinking whisky.

Bryon snorted out a laugh, "I like Mountain Dew best."

"Gotta be grape."

"Obviously," Bryon scoffed, like 'what else'.

"Come with me," Ty offered in a mysterious voice, and went a few paces down the corridor before tapping and part opening a door. "Minor coming in, is everyone decent?"

"It's only me, and I'm decent enough," Pip called back.

Ty pulled Bryon through the door, where Pip was clearly fresh out of the shower, his hair still wet, in jeans and about to pull a T-shirt on.

"Whoa. Cool scar!" Bryon's voice was loud as the door closed and shut the music out and Ty winced. Relieved when Pip's dark eyes warmed and he grinned at Bryon. Who immediately realized his error. "I'm so sorry, Sir. That was rude." Then he look a second look. "Wait. You're Lady Pippin. Sir?"

Pip laughed now and walked forward as he pulled the shirt on. "Yes, I'm Lady Pippin," he held out a hand to shake. "But right now, Pip. And Sir is correct, but thanks for checking." He lifted his shirt again. "And yes, it is a cool scar. Shows I'm alive."

"What happened?" Byron asked, his eyes wide. Almost reaching out, but then putting his hands behind his back.

Pip, to Ty's incredible pride (he used to be very shy and embarrassed about his scar), sat down, pulling Byron down with him, and tucked the tee behind his neck. "You can touch if you want. You have a chaperone!" he winked at Ty who just rolled his eyes and moved to the small fridge.

"Did it hurt?" Bryon asked, his eyes full of concern as he gently traced the long scar down the centre of Pip's chest.

Pip screwed up his face thoughtfully. "I was just a kid, so I can't really remember. But Ma told me it was hard that I wasn't old enough to understand when I was upset, or had to be restrained to the bed or sedated so I didn't hurt myself. She said I just wanted to play and was always so full of energy, even when I was ill."

He covered Byron's hand and pressed it a little firmer to his skin. "You won't hurt me. My heart was poorly so I had to have several surgeries. All before I was six. But it's beating now, you can feel it." He patted Byron's hand and then released him, pulling the shirt back over and down.

"You're not still sick?"

"No. My heart's as healthy as Ty's now. All better."

"Good."

Pip smiled and then looked up as Ty came over with a bottle of grape Mountain Dew.

Ty gave him a wicked grin. "Stole it from Pete's stash. We'll blame in on the kid!"

"You half inched it," Pip grinned and laughed when Byron looked quizzically at him. "I dated a guy from London for a while. He used to say half inched when someone stole something."

"Why?" Byron wondered, taking a gulp of his new drink.

"Because half inched rhymes with pinched, and pinched is British slang for stealing."

Byron tipped the bottle and gave him such an unimpressed look that Pip cracked up.

Ty grinned as well as he crouched in front of where Pip and Byron where sitting. "Bryon. I just wanted to check if you are okay? You don't seem quite yourself."

"I'm okay," Byron's smile faded immediately and he flushed, his eyes falling to his feet. Ty caught Pip's concerned look and patted Byron's knee.

"I was just worried that maybe," he bent to look up into Byron's face. "Maybe some of the kids at school are giving you a hard time?"

He got a shrug. "Why would they?"

"Maybe because of what your dad and Tony are doing seven shows a week on stage?"

Byron's colour depended, but when he looked at Ty his eyes were damp. "It's just pretend."

"I know that and you know that, but kids can be idiots."

Pip put his arm around Byron, pleased when he leaned in to the hug. "Tell us what's going on."

Haltingly, but gaining confidence, Byron told them of the teasing and bullying at school. Mostly around the closing act one scene, in which his dad stripped Tony to the skin, making love, while singing a beautiful song.

The song was one of the break out hits, and Randall had been doing guest spots all over.

The scene had already become legendary.

But talking about it like it was porn was missing the point. It was a turning point in Jackson's life, and in his and Clive's relationship.

Bryon had clearly been uncomfortable repeating some of the words and language that he had been hearing. Ty had reassured him that it was nothing he and Pip hadn't heard before, and his discomfort just proved that he was a decent human being.

Of course, none of these kids had actually seen the show, or the scene, they were too young. It wasn't like the movies, but no one under fifteen was getting in.

Both Byron and his younger sister had seen it. But they were practically pros. Both of them looked set to follow in their dad's footsteps.

"To be honest they sound jealous," Ty told Bryon. "But you should tell your dad, and let him speak with the school."

"That'll make them worse," Bryon wailed. He looked totally defeated and Ty felt terrible. No kid should look that exhausted, or be so worried about school.

"I've got a better idea," Pip offered.

"What?" the look of hope on Bryon's face was heart-breaking, but cute. Definite hero worship going on here.

"Well most of the issue is in your drama class right? Or kids that are from your drama class?"