Title: Glamorous Glambert (39/?)
Author: Amberwinters
Pairing: Adam/Simon; Adam/Kris
Rating: R
Summary: AU fic that takes place in a fictional country around the 1700s. Kris is a landowner, Simon is a powerful trader and Adam is a theater sensation.
Wordcount: 2865 (91,730 total)
Notes: Here is part 39. A slight twist (couldn’t resist) but yes it is still wrapping up. Comments/Concrit are loved and appreciated.
Warnings: Not too many, some cursing, some sexy times, light violence, domination.
Kris headed back to the troupe camp. He arrived and went into the tent he shared with three other musicians. One of his tent mates was there,
“Kris, Paul and Benji have been looking for you. Simon Cowell, you know the most powerful guy on the continent, showed up looking for you. How does he know you?”
“It is a long story. Is he still here?”
“Yes, he is in by Benji watching some of the female dancers.”
Kris went into Benji tent and saw Simon sitting with Paul and Benji drinking some wine. There were three of the dancers there scantily clad with one sitting on Simon’s lap.
“Ah, here is Kris now.” Benji smiled, “I see your evening with Glambert went well. You did not mention you knew him.”
“Well, it didn’t seem an important detail at the time. Hello, Simon.”
“Nice to see you Kris, your associates here have been telling me what a creative genius you are and how much you have contributed to their production.”
“It wasn’t that big a deal. I am surprised you are in Pratsia after the Princess Paula debacle.”
“I am keeping a low profile and willing to take a risk to make sure you don’t screw it up with Adam again.” Simon turned to Paul and Benji, “Will you excuse us, Kris and I need to discuss private matters.”
“Certainly, Mr. Cowell.” Benji and Paul herded the women out and the two of them alone to talk. Kris just waited for Simon to speak. Simon turned to Kris,
“What in the hell were you thinking just taking off like that? I didn’t realize you had wanted to join a goddamn circus?”
“It is a musical troupe and I would have thought you would have been happy with my departure.”
“Why would you think that? I was enjoying your influence on Adam.” Simon winked at Kris. “Seriously, Adam lost it when you left him. He spent half the time walking around totally vacant and the other half drunk. I thought he was going to kill himself. Worse than that he started taking comfort in Kara’s bed and I wasn’t invited to join. So, I was not happy with your departure. In fact, I am willing to entice you back.”
Kris looked at Simon skeptically, “What empty offer do you have for me?”
“Empty? So far I have given you everything I promised. It is not my fault if you keep fucking it up. Anyway, how about I give you an opportunity to make something your own.”
“Like what?”
“I will give you the theater. You can keep on the manager and just focus on the creative side of the house. I am sure Adam would love to help out. I will even throw in a house adjacent to my villa. It is on my land so everyone will know you are connected to me and therefore untouchable.”
“Does the theater turn a profit?”
“Not really. Good point, Allen. I will also let you manage the trade to Bantria and give you a portion of the profits. If you are successful, you will have your own independent means again.”
Kris was suspicious but decided to bide his time. He looked at Simon, “I will think upon it and let you know.”
Simon became annoyed, “Think upon what? I am giving you a great offer, better than you could have ever hoped. What are you holding out for?”
“If it is such a good offer, then I am sure I will accept. I want to talk it over with Adam. I am tired of having my hand forced and being manipulated.”
Simon rolled his eyes, “I guess Adam’s dramatic side is rubbing off on you. Fine but don’t take too long because I am at wit’s end with Adam and I am not a patient man.”
Simon left the tent. Kris sat down and released the breath he was holding. It was a good offer and Kris would be able to continue making music and gain some independence. More importantly, he would still be able to see Adam. Unfortunately, the downside was he would be more involved with Simon.
Paul and Benji returned to the tent and looked concerned. Paul spoke, “How do you know Simon Cowell?”
“I met him a while ago at a Glambert show and our paths kept crossing. I think I need to leave the troupe. I left some unsettled business at home that can no longer be neglected.”
“We have shows booked for a fortnight can’t you delay your return? We are suppose to perform for the King again tonight.”
“I will do tonight’s show but please try and find a replacement. I doubt I can stay a fortnight.”
Kris went back to his tent to try and take a nap. He heard a commotion an hour later. He pulled on his trousers and went to investigate. He saw a livid Adam yelling at everyone around him. Adam spotted Kris and came over,
“You left me again?”
Kris was mad Adam was making such a big scene and deadpanned, “You only paid for one night.”
Adam’s jaw dropped and he seemed to hesitate and then looked at Kris, “Are you serious?”
“Serious about you not making a scene and upsetting the whole troupe. These people admire you and you are being a jerk to them.”
“Why did you leave without waking me up?”
“You were pretty adamant about not talking about anything so I figured I’d just leave until you were ready. I am sorry if I upset you again.”
“I still don’t want to talk about it but I want you with me. Don’t you want to be with me?”
Kris saw the vulnerability in Adam’s eyes as he asked the simple question.
“Of course I do. I gave up everything for you.” Kris smiled, “I can’t leave the troupe yet because they need to find a replacement.”
Adam seemed annoyed by the inconvenience. “We are heading back in two days and I can’t delay the trip because we have a party at the house.”
“I can return later.”
Adam shook his head and snarled, “No, you are coming with us.”
Kris looked at Adam. “No? I am not your child or even your spouse so you cannot order me around. I will return when I am ready.”
Kris saw Adam’s eyes gloss over and knew he may have pushed too far. Adam grabbed Kris by the shirt and pulled him up closer, “You will come back with us or don’t bother coming at all.”
Kris pushed Adam away, “You are giving me an ultimatum?”
Adam looked at Kris and became angrier, “No, let me rephrase it. You either come with us of your own volition or I am dragging you back. Either way, you are coming home and staying there even if I have to keep you locked up.”
Kris was confused by Adam’s attitude and also embarrassed when he noticed half the camp watching them, “Are you insane?”
“You are getting me there.” Adam seemed to hesitate and change tactics, “OK maybe that was a little extreme but I can’t leave without you. I will definitely go insane then. Please, don’t make me wait.”
Kris laughed, “You are such a manipulator, Adam. These people took me in and helped me out I owe them something.”
“Really, I think you returned that debt when they took my money to use you for a night. You don’t owe these bastards anything. Stop being the nice guy and making silly sacrifices. Come home with me.”
Kris could see Adam’s point. “I need to do tonight’s show.” Kris felt weary from being pushed around by everyone, “I will decide tomorrow on my timetable.”
Adam was staring at Kris with a concerned expression. “OK. I will see you tonight at the show.” Adam pulled Kris to him and kissed him possessively. Kris was so shocked Adam had done that in front of the whole troupe he returned Adam’s kiss instead of pushing him away.
Adam whispered in his ear, “I love you even when you are difficult.”
Adam turned and mounted his horse. Kris watched Adam depart and decided to go in his tent rather than face half the troupe that were in audience of their tiff.
+++
Kris hid in his tent until show time. Kris was bombarded by the other members asking him what it was like to be with Glambert and how long they were together and so on. Kris declined to discuss it and just concentrated on getting ready for the show. The King came backstage with two well dressed men and introduced them to some of the troupe. Kris caught the eye of one of the men who leered at him. Paul oblivious as usual brought the men over.
“This is our newest member Kris and he has written a few of the songs we will be performing.” Paul smiled at the men.
Kris bowed to the King and then turned to the two men. The King spoke, “This is my heir apparent Leland and my younger son Marcus.”
Leland once again leered at him and then smiled, “It is nice to meet you Kris and we are looking forward to your performance. Afterwards, maybe you can join us for some refreshment.”
“Thank you, your highness. We usually head right back to the camp.”
“I am sure you can make an exception.” Leland smiled.
Paul quickly added, “Of course your highness. Any of our performers would be honored to attend you. Isn’t that true, Kris?”
Kris just smiled tightly and claimed he had to go tune his instrument. Kris avoided further contact before the show. The troupe went out for the first song. Kris noticed Adam and Kara sitting with Leland and Marcus. He was also surprised to see Simon sitting with them. The men seemed engaged in serious discussions. Kris began to play the first song which featured him singing. He saw the men looking over and Adam’s expression grow dark. Leland was looking toward Kris and winked. Adam noticed and was livid. Kris hoped Adam remained calm but also hoped he could stop Leland.
Kris continued playing. Adam came up and performed a song. Kris noticed how tense he was,
“Is everything OK, Adam?”
“No, it seems you caught the eye of the Prince. This is why I did not want you to meet them back in Lisantia. Don’t encourage him.”
“Of course I am not going to encourage him.” Kris was annoyed at Adam’s remark and even more annoyed by the jealous tone. He also realized Marcus and Leland must have been the men Adam met with in Lisantia. He was glad Adam had stood up to Simon at the time because he had a feeling Leland was a cruel man.
Adam finished the song and returned to the table. Once again the men began talking and looking over by Kris. After the performance, Kris and several of the performers were invited for some refreshment. Kris had little choice so he followed his colleagues into a private salon. Kris saw Leland and Simon speaking. Simon waived Kris over. Kris panicked and was looking for Adam but could not find him in the room.
Kris went over stiffly and bowed, “Your highness, Mr. Cowell.”
Simon laughed, “Kris is shy and a little standoffish.” Simon pulled Kris toward him and kissed him on the lips. “Relax, Kris, this is a private party.” Kris was a little taken a back by Simon’s behavior and did not hide his shock.
“He is very pretty, Simon. It isn’t fair that you covet all the desirable ones to yourself.”
“True. But life isn’t about being fair but I can be generous with my friends.”
Leland moved closer to Kris and turned to Simon, “No wonder you have so many influential friends.”
Kris was getting nervous and angry. He was not about to let Simon use him to sweeten a business deal. He felt Leland’s hand move across his ass and wrap around his hip. Kris instinctively moved back.
Leland smiled, “He is feisty.”
Kris saw Adam walk in and felt relieved. Simon leaned in closer to Leland, “He is feisty and it is interesting watching him surrender.” Leland licked his lips and seemed to agree whole heartedly.
Kris felt dizzy and needed to get away, “I think there is some kind of misunderstanding. I need to-
“Relax.” Simon smiled, “I know you get nervous but I am sure I can more than compensate for any discomfort.”
Leland smiled at Kris, “I am crowned Prince surely that is a step up from your usual admirers.”
Simon looked over at Adam and then back at the Prince, “As much as I think you would enjoy sampling Kris, I am sure you have sampled shy, timid boys before. I have a better plan. How would you like to see something new and exciting?”
Leland looked interested. “Such as?”
“Along with being a theater sensation, Glambert was know among certain circles for other talents.”
“I have heard as much but he is not really my type.”
“No but imagine watching him work his magic on someone that is you type. Let’s say a timid, pretty musician.” Simon nodded toward Kris.
Kris was trying to get Adam’s attention but Adam seemed either oblivious or intentionally obtuse. Kris returned his attention to his present company just as Simon pulled Kris closer to him and ran his hands down Kris’ back and ass possessively. Kris looked at Simon like he was insane. Kris wanted to get away from them. Thankfully, Adam came over and smiled wickedly, “Good evening, Kris, maybe you can break away from Simon and say hello properly.”
Kris looked at Adam wondering if this was an elaborate joke. Adam returned Kris’ gaze and there was no warmth in his look. Simon spoke up, “Pratsia is conservative in the area of entertainment and perhaps we could coax Kris to perform in an adhoc show.”
“No!”
Kris looked at Adam and Adam just shrugged, “He’ll come around.” And in a more menacing tone, “One way or another they always do.”
Leland looked at Adam, “Seems Kris has not fallen captive to the Glambert charm. Maybe it would be an interesting show.”
“A show that is never going to happen.” Kris went to walk away but Adam grabbed his arm hard, “Kris, we will make it worth your while. Besides, you might like it with an audience.”
“Fuck you. I am not participating in this…activity. Find another musician or whore whatever you are shopping for but I am not that guy.”
Adam smiled and ran his hand over Kris’ crotch, “You will be that guy. No sense resisting, last night should have shown you that your troupe leaders will sell you at the right price. Although, I should warn you I tend to be a little more ardent with an audience.”
Prince Leland laughed, “Excellent, I must acknowledge some people but I will expect you all in the green salon in an hour.” Prince Leland walked away. Kris turned to Adam,
“What the fuck, Adam?”
Adam ignored Kris and turned to Simon, “That bastard better sign the trade agreements after this performance or I we go to plan B and eliminate him.”
Simon looked at Adam, “He is a crowned Prince not easy to eliminate. You just better make it interesting enough for him to be swayed and you better keep your head in the game.”
Kris looked at Adam, “You are going to humiliate me for a trade agreement?”
Adam looked at Kris with a heavy heart, “I told you I am not a good person maybe now you will finally listen. I am going to let Paul know you will be spending the night with us.” Adam walked away and Kris turned to Simon,
“You bastard. How long has this plan been in the works?”
“I do not spend all my free time plotting. When are you going to realize, Adam will always be loyal to me. I suggest you steel yourself for later because I am not sure you have seen this side of Adam very often.”
“I am not going to be a part of this.”
“What choice do you have? There is no where for you to go.” Simon hesitated and then added with a smirk, “It hurts when the person you are closest to betrays you, doesn’t it?”
Kris just looked at Simon and hated seeing the smug expression Simon was wearing. Kris felt like he had been run over by a herd of wild horses and had not seen it coming. It seemed Simon would finally get his revenge. He feared what was to come and wondered if Adam would go through with the performance. Kris’ heart was breaking with the thought that Adam would not only sacrifice their love but hurt him for monetary gain. If this was the case, Kris knew the man he loved never existed and Adam was truly flawed. Worse yet, along with his own societal demise, he would be emotionally crippled for the rest of his days.
~~~End Part 39~~~