When Markus met Peter (M+/M+)(Concluded 11/30/24)

[Socksbound]

Hunter you devil, and to think I thought you were cute and sweet at the start

[DeeperThanRed]

No! Peter and Markus can't break up! I still need to see Peter doing tile wor- I mean, they are so good for each other! I'm sure they'll talk things through unless a certain someone makes sure they can't talk at all...

Either way, I love the tonal shift between the cute fluff and tension in this chapter!

[Guardianbound]

Noo!!! Don't eat or drink anything from a jilted roommate who has a full blown crush on your boyfriend and stole credit for YOUR COOKIES!!! Poor Pete...

Love this added drama

[gag1195]

@Volobond Rescued? You and the others certainly have some serious ideas brewing!

@Socksbound to be fair, Hunter is still cute! Even if he's less sweet than before...

@DeeperThanRed Peter bound and gagged doing construction labor is such an enticing visual... and of course, they are also a great couple for other reasons!

@Guardianbound If I didn't know better, I'd say that many of you don't trust Hunter! And yes, I gotta up the drama for these last few chapters of the story!


Thanks for the comments everyone! I hope you all continue to enjoy things as we move towards the end of this tale! Don't worry, there's still a few chapters left before we are done!

[harveygasson]

Wow unexpected although I think Hunter may be pulling some shenanigans of some kind.

[KidnappedCowboy]

Hunter is a devious, scheming, stalking POS!!!

What has he done to and with Markus! Slipped him a Mickey Finn, no doubt!

What awaits Peter when he gets home? Will he be fooled with the text from "Markus"????

Or will he see through the "reformed" Hunter?

And will Liam figure in any rescue of Markus?

Or will it be left to Liam to rescue both Peter and Markus???

[gag1195]

@harveygasson Gotta inject some drama! Can't let the end of this story go out with anything less than a bang!

@KidnappedCowboy Everyone is so quick to assume the worst! Turning on Hunter, so sure he's done something terrible... I suppose we will just have to wait and see what is waiting for Peter, and what's going on with Markus, and just how Liam might get involved... Your imaginative comment did make me smile, friend!


I should have the next chapter up by the end of the weekend, so stay tuned to see just what might be happening with Markus and Peter!

[gag1195]

A somewhat shorter update, but I hope you all still enjoy it! Things are starting to heat up a bit, but there's still a bit more to go!


Part 26: Best of my Love

Peter

Peter stared at his phone, dumbfounded. It didn’t make any sense. He and Markus were in a good place. Things were going well. Right? They had chatted earlier today and everything seemed fine. What changed so drastically between then and now?

Peter: What do you mean? What’s wrong?

Peter: Can we talk about things? Did something happen?

Straight to voicemail. Twice. A heartfelt message.

Peter: Markus. Please call me.

Peter hopped off his bike and sprinted to the apartment. Bounded up the stairs, moving too swiftly and too impatiently to wait for the elevator. His shaking hands fumbled with the keys. He nearly pushed the door off its hinges.

A dark and empty apartment greeted him. No Markus waited for him on the couch or in his room. Hunter gone to his nerd meet-up. Peter fired off a few texts to his roommate, asking him to call when he got the chance.

Another round of texts and calls to Markus, all greeted with silence. Peter replayed their recent interactions over and over again in his mind, trying to figure out what he’d done wrong, what little thing had driven Markus to want to break things off. Had the teacher talked to someone that made him change his mind? Was he cheating on- No. Markus wouldn’t cheat, not after everything we went through with Eddie, and not since we became exclusive. No, he couldn’t think like that. Markus wouldn’t. Couldn’t.

So why did the bearded teacher want to end things?

It didn’t make any sense. Sure, Peter was an ass, even he could admit that to himself. But in terms of their relationship, Peter felt that he’d been more than a perfect gentleman. What had set Markus off? And why ghost him now?

Desperate, Peter called Liam, almost broke down explaining the text and the empty apartment.

“I guess it’s my turn to comfort you.” Liam joked, trying to lighten his friend’s mood. “Your place or mine? I’ve got rocky road or mint chocolate chip ice cream… And I can throw away any remaining baked goods…”

“Actually, I want you to join me at the Cloak and Dagger.” Peter said, his voice growing serious.

“I know what you’re thinking, Pete. Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Liam hesitated.

“Positive.”

—--

“I still say this is a bad idea.” Liam shook his head as the two accountants entered the club.

Peter ignored his friend.

“If Markus is here, he clearly doesn’t want to talk to you, so what is a public confrontation going to do? You’ll both say something you don’t mean and make things worse!”

Peter pushed through the dancing crowd of polyester and silk, making his way towards the bar.

“Let’s just go!” Liam tried to catch up. “Trashy reality TV, ice cream, a couple strong drinks. Talk to Markus later!”

Deaf ears. Peter marched up to the bar and scanned the seats. No Markus. He flagged down Kyle. “Have you seen Markus tonight?”

Kyle shook his head. “Not yet? He meeting you here? I can keep an eye out. You’re welcome to wait too. Drinks?” Despite the crowd, Kyle remained coolly confident. He faced Peter fully, giving his near undivided attention, his eyes occasionally darting to check on his other patrons.

Peter’s stoic face fell. “Just… Just text me if he shows up.” And he turned back towards the exit.

Kyle shot a curious glance to Peter, then Liam. “Rough patch.” Liam leaned in to answer, hoping Peter didn’t hear. He did. Rough patch. Dumped over text and ghosted. That’s pretty rough if you ask me…

Peter didn’t slow down, even as Kit, dressed in a shining gold jumpsuit and afro belted out The Emotions and joked about trying to solo a three-part harmony.

Liam caught up with Peter outside, just as Hunter called. Peter immediately answered, renewed hope in his voice.

“Hunter!” Peter practically shouted into the phone. “Did Markus say anything to you before you left? He wasn’t at the apartment when I got there.”

“Uh, he didn’t show up. At least not before I left. I waited as long as I could, but I was gone before 6 and there was no sign of him.” Hunter answered, sounding apologetic.

“Are you sure? Shit…” So maybe Markus really did want to end things.

“Yeah. Sorry, I just assumed you two’d made other plans or something, weren’t meeting at the apartment after all.” A pause and then, “Did something happen?”

“He dumped me.” Peter didn’t feel the need to lie to his roommate, not at this point.

“Shit.” Hunter echoed. “I’m leaving now. You shouldn’t be alone right now.”

Peter shook his head. That was the last thing he wanted. “No. Stay, have a good time. Liam’s with me. Gonna crash at his place tonight.”

“If you’re sure…” Hunter began. “If you’re sure, I’ll stay. I was gonna text and tell you that I probably won’t be back tonight either. Hit things off with one of the guys here. Wish me luck.”

Great. The best guy I ever dated just dumped me, and Hunter’s getting laid tonight. Fuck my life.

—--

Monday morning rolled around and Peter’s mood had yet to improve. He’d spent most of the weekend at Liam’s, both commiserating over their failed relationships and watching the best of the worst of TV. He continued to text and call throughout the weekend, but Markus continued to ghost him. By the time he walked into the office, Peter resolved to move on. Had to force himself to.

If Markus doesn’t want to talk about shit, then fine. He wants a clean break. Fine.

That didn’t improve his mood any, and he was grumpy all morning. Even Suzie’s usually bubbly personality didn’t help, and she quickly backed off back into her own cubicle. Liam also left him alone, only bothering Peter for work related questions.

Around 9am, Peter’s phone rang. A California number, one he didn’t recognize. He didn’t feel like talking to telemarketers, so she ignored it. The same number rang again. And a third time.

“Persistent fuckers.” Peter grumbled.

A text. Unknown Number: Is this Peter? Please pick up. This is Lauren, Markus’ friend? It’s an emergency!

Peter didn’t have time to reply before Lauren called again. Curiosity won out and he picked up.

“Thank god!” Markus’ friend breathed a sigh of relief. “Is Markus okay?”

Peter scrunched his face. “How should I know?”

“He isn’t with you?” Concern rising in her voice, she went on a small rant. “I’m sorry, I just assumed he’d be with you. Why would he be with you, you’re obviously at work. Sorry, Markus gave me your number when you finally got serious. Just for emergencies. Did you see him this morning before you left?”

“I’m sorry, I’m confused. He didn’t tell you?”

“Tell me what? What’s wrong?”

Peter heaved a deep sigh. It was too early in the day for this shit. “Markus dumped me. Haven’t heard from him since Friday, and he’s been ghosting me all weekend.”

“WHAT?” Even Liam looked over at Lauren’s piercing voice.

“So, no, I didn’t see Markus this morning. I’ve got no idea where he is, and frankly, I don’t care. If that’s all…”

“Wait!” Lauren sounded desperate. “Look, I’m sorry. That’s really shitty, but…” She hesitated. “I can’t get ahold of Markus either. So I just assumed that he was with you. I had no idea things were over between the two of you. I’ll get right to it. Markus didn’t show up for work today, and I guess I’m still his emergency contact. The secretaries and even the principal have been calling me all morning asking if I know where Markus is.”

“He’s not at school?” A small alarm started in Peter’s mind. “But he never misses work.”

Markus had bragged to Peter about his attendance multiple times. He’d only missed two days of work his entire career- once when he had an allergic reaction to some medicine and broke out in hives, and another time when he got food poisoning and was hugging his toilet for two days.

“Right? It’s weird, especially for no reason.” She huffed. “Look, I’m sorry to ask this, considering… everything… but could you go make sure he’s okay? Given his silence, I’m worried that something is wrong. I know it’ll be awkward, but please?”

I really wish I was a worse person… “Fine.”

“Thank you Peter! Please let me know as soon as you know something!”

Liam turned in his chair and watched Peter grab his jacket and helmet. “You’re really going to Markus’ house? Now? After he’s ignored you all weekend?”

“I know, I know. But something doesn’t feel right about all this. And maybe I can get some fucking closure. Cover for me?”

“Fine, but you owe me. Hurry back.”

“Trust me, the less time I spend at my ex’s house, the better.”

—--

Markus’ car was sitting in the driveway. A good sign. At least he’s home. Let’s get this over with…

He rang the doorbell, pounded on the door, called for Markus to answer. Nothing. Five minutes of trying and no success. Gritting his teeth, Peter fished out the key Markus had given him. Peter planned on leaving it with Connor at his next session later in the week, since Markus insisted on ignoring him.

“Markus? Wake up! You’re late for school!” Peter announced as he opened the door and stepped inside.

Silence. Darkness. Emptiness. He flicked on the light and called again, checking the kitchen, then moving towards the hallway. Did he get hurt while renovating? Is he hung over?

“Markus! Come on, Teach!” Peter called again, an edge to his voice.

No sign of him in the hall bathroom, or in the spare bedroom. Office empty. Peter pushed the main bedroom door open. Nothing. No noise, no movement.

No Markus.

No sign of the teacher either. Bed made, nice and neat, no phone resting on the nightstand. Peter checked the bathroom. Nothing. Shower and sink both dry. Now he was starting to panic.

“Markus, where the hell are you?”

His phone ringing made him jump. “SHIT!” He tried to compose himself.

“Peter, what’s going on? Lauren said you and Markus broke up and he’s not answering anyone?” Connor’s usually calm voice was also tinged with fear. “Are you at his place now?”

“I am, but Markus isn’t.” He explained everything to Connor, the break up text, the radio silence, the car in the driveway, the eerily empty house.

Connor remained quiet the entire time, letting Peter talk. When Peter finished, he finally spoke, but what he said made Peter’s heart sink.

“Peter, I need you to listen carefully. I need you to leave Markus’ house and wait outside. When we hang up, you need to call the police. I’m on my way over right now. I’ll update Lauren on the way.” He sighed. “Peter, I need you to prepare yourself.”

“Why?” He was feeling very nervous and Connor’s shift into almost calculating calm hadn’t helped relieve him.

“Because the police are going to question you, maybe even detain you. I think Markus has gone missing, and you might be the last person to have any contact with him.”

[Wedgieboy69]

So many ways this could go. I have no clue what way to guess! Hunter taken things too far? Connors normal meddling? Self bondage session gone wrong? Eddie getting payback? So many potential expectations!

[Volobond]

I'm hoping to bring down the full force of the law and whatever else might hurt on Hunter. This is too far!

[Socksbound]

Grrrr Hunter has made me so angry

[CaptiveDan]

I'll return to All Inclusive Fitness eventually, but I've been really enjoying this series as it's been coming out. These past few chapters with the mystery of Markus going missing and the building tension have been so cool, and I'm super excited to find out what happened to him and see how Peter is going to save him!

Awesome story!

[Guardianbound]

Poor Markus! I hope wherever he is, he isn't being tormented by his captor.

[KidnappedCowboy]

Poor Markus! I hope wherever he is, he isn't being tormented by his captor.

I bet, @Guardianbound! You want Hunter taunting and tormenting a bound and gagged Markus as much as the rest of us do!

What a baldfaced liar Hunter is!

He has Markus stashed away in some bolthole!

With Markus "missing," I bet Hunter plans to "console" Peter. When Peter does not respond to Hunter's ministrations the way Hunter wants, I bet Hunter will soon bring Peter to Markus before disposing of them both.

Will Connor and Liam come to their rescue?

[gag1195]

@Wedgieboy69 So many interesting potentials to consider! Is Hunter truly as terrible as everyone seems to think? Is it something more innocent, or perhaps the return of Eddie? Only time will tell!

@Volobond We don't even know for sure what's happened yet! Is it perhaps to too soon to wish for militaristic retribution against Hunter?

@Socksbound It does warm my heart that so many of you wonderful readers are ready to square up in Markus' defense!

@CaptiveDan There is something quite enjoyable about currently updating stories! Glad you, and others, have enjoyed the additional mystery element of these last few chapters!

@Guardianbound I think I have to agree with @KidnappedCowboy. I suspect that you do in fact wish some sort of torment on our dear Markus... Not that I blame you either!

@KidnappedCowboy Interesting insight about this supposed plan of Hunter's... And I love your comments continually adding more characters to this eventual bombastic conclusion!



Thanks for the comments everyone! I'm thrilled that this twist in the third act has been so well received by you wonderful readers! I've been enjoying reading all your comments and ideas! My workload is slowing down significantly starting in the next few days, so I should be able to keep a more consistent release as we move closer and closer to the end of this tale! Stay tuned!

[gag1195]

Thank you for your patience as I got to this chapter, and the anticipation of what has happened to our dear Markus! Hope it was worth the wait! Enjoy!


Part 27: Love to Love You

Markus

He didn’t want to wake up. His head was pounding. He felt groggy. Weren’t naps supposed to make you feel refreshed? I guess I was more exhausted than I thought. How long have I been asleep? He was still sitting up on the couch, but slumped to the side a bit. Couch is firmer than I remember it being…

He couldn’t hear anything. Peter must not be back yet, so it can’t have been that long. Was Hunter still here? It was very dark. Markus felt something heavy tucked around him. Maybe Peter was home, and tossed a blanket over him? He’s too sweet. But shit, that means I’ve been asleep for a while… our date…

Markus blinked again. Still very dark. He was waking up more. Sense returning fully. He smelled leather. Tasted rubber. Felt something in his mouth.

“MMMMMMM!” He called out, panic growing. He shook his head, trying to dislodge whatever was in and on his mouth. He felt the leather pressed against his face now, framing his nose. Tight strapped wrapped behind his head and buckled into place. A wide piece of leather was fastened to his face, acting as a blindfold.



He instinctively reached up to try and remove the gag and blindfold, the leather muzzle swallowing his face. His arms wouldn’t cooperate. Couldn’t listen to him. A shiver ran down his spine and his panic only grew.

Markus felt his arms, each wrapped in a softer, canvas like material. Pinned to his sides, but separated from any direct contact, the canvas sleeves extended all the way up to his armpits and were tightly sewn closed at the bottom.. The tightness around him wasn’t a blanket at all. Markus squirmed, fought, pulled, stretched. The leather and canvas trapping him offered no hope of escape.

Markus’ breath caught in his throat. He screamed. “MMMMMMM HMMMMMM MMMMMMM!”

He was completely encased in a sleepsack. Almost every part of him was engulfed in tightly secured leather. From head to toe. He even felt straps pulled tight around his chest, his stomach, his legs.

What the hell was going on? Markus’ breathing quickened. He was hyperventilating. Peter wouldn’t do this, right? No! This is too far, even for Peter!

Peter knew about Markus’ claustrophobia, knew that this sort of thing would be too much for the teacher. He wouldn’t do this. Couldn’t do this.

It was hard to think. Hard to concentrate. He couldn’t slow his breathing. Couldn’t focus. Every thought Markus tried to form shrunk back in the waves of fear assaulting his mind. He was stuck, trapped, squeezed too tight. Blinded, silenced, alone in the dark.

He felt the stinging in his eyes, the tears flowing, at least the ones not caught against the blindfold. Markus screamed, in fear, in anguish, he screamed.

“MMMMMMSSSSS HMMMMMMM! PMMMMMMMRRR! PMMMMMMMMR! HMMMMMMMM!” The pecker and leather panel quieted most of his attempts to call out, but his fear didn’t care. He screamed.

He didn’t even know where he was. Markus pressed backwards and realized that he wasn’t on Peter’s couch after all. He was leaning, sitting up against a wall. His head grazed against something soft and foamlike attached to the wall. It was dark, wherever he was, at least there seemed to be no light attempting to peek through the blindfold. That, or the blindfold was just that tightly sealed on his face, a fact that did nothing to calm Markus down.

Was he still in the apartment? Who had done this? Did someone break in while he was asleep? Was Peter captured too, stored away in his own sleepsack? What about Hunter? Markus recalled Hunter having an event to go to. Had he gotten away safely, or was he a prisoner too? Could Hunter of all people be his, and perhaps Peter’s, savior?

“HHMMMMMMMMMMPPPPP HHMMMMMMMMMMMM! PLLLLLMMMMMMMMMM! HMMMMMMMMMMMMMMPPP!” Markus screamed again, hoping someone, anyone might hear him and help him. No one came.

Markus’ breathing refused to regulate. The fear continually clawed at his mind, his senses, his thought process. Panicked questions raced through his mind. Where was he? Who had done this? Why would they do this? What did they want? Was Peter safe? Was Hunter safe? Would either of them save him? How long had he been prisoner? How long would he remain prisoner? Was he going to die here?

He screamed and cried there in the dark. No answers came to him, only more questions, more fear, more panic. The tight bonds encasing him grew tighter and tighter, squeezing him, or at least it felt that way.

Markus wasn’t sure how long he’d been… wherever he was. The darkness and his own fear warped the passage of time. He screamed futilely for help until his muffled voice was sore and he could produce only strained whimpering sounds. His eyes still stung from his tears, though he’d stopped crying some time ago. He shook, uselessly trying to wriggle out of the sleepsack, or shake off his gag and blindfold.

When he sat still, paralyzed from fear, he heard nothing. The creak of his leather prison, his own haggard breath, the rapid beating of his heart. Beyond that, there was only the dark silence of wherever he was, wherever he’d been taken and stashed away.

Markus was alone.

Alone, imprisoned, silenced, blinded, exhausted, thirsty, terrified, confused.

Trapped by himself in this hellish torture, Markus tried to call out again. His throat was so dry, barely a whine escaped the leather muzzle. He cried again, realization of his defeat sinking in.

But the question remained- Why?

That answer came much later. An hour? Two? Three? Impossible to determine. But there was a noise. A doorknob turning, a rush of air in the space, soft footfalls approaching.

A hand, firmly pressed on Markus’ leg. Fingers checking the bonds. Not freeing the trapped teacher, but checking the security of the restraints. The hand explored upwards, feeling the outline of Markus’ cocooned arms. A playful slap to Markus’ chest before the hand settled on Markus’ head. A check of the leather head muzzle, a pat of the prisoner’s hair.

Satisfied, the hand moved to Markus’ gagged mouth. It unbuckled one side of the gag, and with a yank, the panel unbuttoned from the rest of the head harness and hung loosely off Markus’ cheek.

Markus immediately tried to call out. “PLEASE HELP! HEL-MMMMMMMGGGGGHHHH!!” The hand shoved the pecker gag back in, but did not reattach it, instead holding it firmly in place.

“Not very smart, are you, Teach?” That voice… Hunter!

“Hmmmmmrrr?” Markus cried. What the fuck was happening? Why was Hunter doing this? What was going on???

“That’s right, Markus. I’ll be happy to explain things, but first-” Hunter removed his hand, but before Markus could call out again or ask his captor any questions, a foreign object was shoved into his mouth and sweet, nourishing water nearly choked him. Markus coughed and sputtered before managing to coax the deluge down safely. He felt instant relief, and despite everything else, the water had a calming effect.

The bottle was removed and swiftly replaced with the pecker gag, fastened and buckled tightly in place.

“That’s better.” Hunter patronizingly patted Markus’ cheek. “Can’t have you dying of thirst, right? That would ruin everything.”

“HNNNNNR, WHHHH NNNNN FNNNNNN!?”

“How are you enjoying testing out my camping supplies?” Hunter joked, running his hand back down the sleepsack.

Markus froze. Camping Supplies… The delivery the other weekend… How long has Hunter been planning this?

“I really thought I was never going to get the chance to use them, after Peter freaked out about my little white lie with the cookies. But I am a very convincing actor. ‘I’m so sorry, Peter. I let my crush go too far. I don’t know what I was thinking. I promise to back off and respect your relationship. Please forgive me’.” And then Hunter laughed. “And then this golden opportunity presented itself and I had to act. You, alone here in the apartment; Peter nowhere to be found; me, with the perfect alibi. I’m just glad you’re so trusting. I’m not sure I would have taken a drink from my boyfriend’s jilted crush…”

The beer! Markus jolted up.

“Yes, Markus, I drugged the beer I gave you. Knocked you right out. Other than dragging your heavy ass here, it was easy enough to get you all secured in that sack. I had plenty of time to hide you away before I was supposed to leave and well before Peter was supposed to come home.”

“PMMMMMR! PMMMMMR!” Markus interrupted, calling out desperately for his boyfriend to help him. Hunter made it clear they were still in the apartment, so surely Peter would be able to hear him.

Hunter slapped him. “Shut up! He’s not even home!” He slapped Markus again. “Besides, even if he was, there’s no way he’d hear you. My closet is completely soundproofed. So you’re better off saving your breath.”

“Nnnnmmmm…” Markus whimpered. What does Hunter want?

Like reading his mind, Hunter continued. “Besides, after that awful break up text you sent, I don’t think Peter wants to see you ever again…” Hunter leaned in close and pulled the blindfold off the head harness. It was just light enough in the closet for Markus to see Hunter’s intense face. It was partially in shadow, but close knit eyebrows and an unnerving stare were easy to make out. “Peter is going to forget all about you. He’ll move on and I’ll be right there waiting for him when he does.” He caressed Markus’ cheek. “Don’t worry. You’ll be around long enough to see the love of your life fall for someone else…”

Markus was dizzy. Hunter was going to hold him prisoner for who knows how long before… before… Markus’ eyes grew heavy. Had it not been for Hunter holding his head up, Markus would have slumped forward.

“Oh, did I forget to mention that I also spiked the water I just gave you? My mistake…”

—--

Wakefulness once came slowly for Markus. But nothing had changed about his predicament. He was still encased in canvas and leather, still blinded and gagged by the tight harness buckled around his head, still presumably locked in Hunter’s closet.

But he wasn’t alone. He heard movement around the closet. Hunter was there.

“Good morning Sleeping Beauty!” Hunter happily turned towards Markus’ direction. “Or should I say, good afternoon! Man, you sure can sleep! Then again, you must’ve been exhausted. Lots to think about, lots to consider, and oh that break up must have been hard for you, too. Peter’s taking it hard. Spent last night crying to Liam, and is spending the day there. So it looks like it’s just you and me today!” Hunter unfastened the blindfold.

Markus blinked, adjusting to the light he’d barely seen for almost a full day. Markus saw that half of Hunter’s closet had been converted into a tiny office, with a full desk and gaming chair, along with the pulsing color-changing LED lights. Hunter was shirtless and smiling, reveling in his victory over Markus.

“I’ve got something for you to eat.” Hunter held up what looked like a protein smoothie. Markus recoiled, even as his stomach groaned at the sound of potential sustenance. Hunter laughed. “Don’t worry. It’s not drugged. See?” He took a few long sips from the drink and gave an exaggerated “AAAAHHHH!” before bringing it closer to Markus’ face. “Silly me!” He undid the gag and forced the concoction into Markus’ mouth.

The captive had no choice but to swallow the smoothie or risk choking on it. Hunter offered Markus no chance to try and speak or call out. There was no window to get a single word out. Once half the smoothie was gone, Hunter quickly restored the gag and set the rest of the smoothie on the desk.

“Now, be a good boy and sit quietly while I finish some ‘work’.” Hunter placed air quotes around the word work, and winked. Markus could only begin to speculate what the deranged man meant.

Hunter returned to his chair and pulled out his phone. “I mentioned an alibi last night, right?” He didn’t wait for a response. “Right! Well, I didn’t lie to you last night. That CodeBreakers escape room networking event was a huge success. Nearly a dozen people were there. And of course, we solved the room in record time and got a commemorative picture. Then we went out to a nearby bar and drank for a few hours. I even went home with one of the guys, Jeremy. He’s cute enough for a convenient one-night stand. Didn’t get home until after 3am, and by that time, mean ole Markus had already broken up with and ghosted Peter and poor Peter was crashing on Liam’s couch.” Hunter fired off a few texts before smiling at Markus again. “And got another date with Jeremy tonight. Do you think he might be the one?” Hunter brought his hands up to his heart and sighed deeply before breaking out into a fit of laughter.

Hunter got up and left the closet, leaving the door open just enough for Markus to be able to see and hear him. He flopped onto his bed, a standard queen-size with dark sheets, framed by dark curtains on either side to block out most of the sunlight. Markus could just barely see the occasional flicker of afternoon light trying to peek through the windows.

Hunter messed with his phone for a moment before setting it on his nightstand. Markus immediately recognized the song that was starting to play. The slow building melody and sultry moans of Donna Summer’s Love to Love You began to fill the room.

Markus’ eyes went wide when he saw Hunter unbutton his pants. It didn’t take long before He was hard, confidently stroking himself. His eyes were closed, but he had to know that Markus was watching him the entire time. A captive audience.

Hunter began moaning along to the song. And vocalizing his own fantasies. “Peter… Yes… Tie me down… Make me yours… Peter…”

He brought a hand up and closed it around his own neck. “Yes, Peter… squeeze me, choke me… I’m yours… Yes… YES!”



Markus closed his eyes when Hunter climaxed. He couldn’t watch that happen. He kept his eyes closed when he heard Hunter start up again a short time later. This was how Hunter planned on spending their Saturday together- continually masturbating in front of his prisoner, forcing Markus to picture Peter in Hunter’s sick fantasies.

Markus did his best to ignore Hunter. The terror of his situation made everything hard to focus on. He couldn’t keep his thoughts long enough to escape into them. Couldn’t hide in his imagination, not with Hunter’s threats and suggestions. He was trapped, mind and body.

After the third orgasm, Hunter was seemingly finished. He strode confidently back into the closet and stood over Markus. “Did you enjoy the show? I can’t wait to share those moments with Peter for real, but for now, this will have to do.”

He hunched down and affixed the blindfold back in place. Whispering into Markus' ear, Hunter’s voice was ice cold. “I hope you understand your new lot in life, Markus. I’ll let you think about everything with a clear head. I’ve got a date to get ready for. Think of it as practice for my future date with Peter…”

He slapped Markus again before closing and locking the closet door, once again trapping Markus in his soundproof prison.

Markus shuddered, Hunter’s words piercing into his brain and mixing with his tormented emotions. Hunter was going to torture him for as long as it took to make Peter love him, and then…

Alone in the dark, Markus began to cry.

[Volobond]

I ain't even gonna lie - the pic did nothing for me. I'm too in love with my favorite teacher and outraged about his predicament to even consider Hunter in any way other than plotting his downfall.

The man's so pathetic he'd rather pine for someone who has outright said in clear terms he doesn't want him than actually work to find someone else or improve. He stole credit for making cookies - man probably doesn't even know how to preheat an oven - and kidnapped a man who most likely has friends/a job/family who care about his whereabouts.

And he's keeping him close by? To jerk off in front of? Even if I didn't hate him, I'd think him an unconscionably stupid wannabe mastermind. But all these grievances combined? I loathe Hunter and wish him as much ill as the law or shadowy kidnapping corporations can bring him.

But that said, I loved the genuine terror and excitement of this installment! Markus' sheer panic comes through so clear, and it's a hot yet worrying situation he's in! Love your writing style and glorious descriptions, and I can't wait to see what happens next - a dashing rescue? A punishment of the guilty? An escalation, a false surrender? On the edge of my seat - someone tie me down!

[Socksbound]

I’ll start off with how good your writing is. You’ve got me so emotionally invested in the story. Thank god I know the outcome or I’d be a wreck.

Hunter is despicable, I’m now putting up there as my most disliked character on the forum. I hope when the time comes he gets everything he deserves. To think I thought he was cute and innocent at the start

[Straitjacketed]

Oh wow, I picked the right moment to catch up. Hunter did some hunting!

[blackbound]

Sounds like my Therapist could've taken some notes from Hunter. I feel for Markus, but the exquisite torment is too hot to ignore.

[Guardianbound]

Uh oh! I sure hope nobody mailed Peter to Hunter!

Definitely not, no amount of packaging can silence that chatty mouth!

My own prediction is a body bag or sleepsack or straight jacket, something he can store Peter to sleep in. The best lies are half truths.

I'm going to claim partial credit here!! Oh poor Markus, someone's got to rescue him soon and deliver some justice! But villains look like they're winning all the way to the end so maybe Peter gets captured too. Keep up the great work as always!

[harveygasson]

Holy cow! Now that's not just dastardly, that's evil! Incredibly well written. It's not often you truly hate a character you read but you've done a great job with Hunter. Amazing as always!

[gag1195]

@Volobond Your written takedown of Hunter is scathing! It's a good thing he is fictional, I don't think he could handle it otherwise! To your point about kidnapping Markus and the community our wonderful teacher has, I truly don't think Hunter fully realizes just how connected Markus is. Hunter's definitely a bit blinded by his end goal to properly plan. As it is, the school, Lauren, Connor, and Peter are all now actively looking for Markus. I have to ask though, would the Company actually want Hunter? It's owner is definitely not enthused by him... And of course, thank you so much for your unbelievably kind words. This was quite the chapter to write and I'm glad it worked out!

@Socksbound Thank you so much friend! I'm not sure I would have been able to write this chapter/plot without knowing that this is a prequel and we know that ultimately, Markus ends up okay! I certainly wouldn't want a repeat of the Not-So-Happy-Ending of Moral Quandaries! I feel your pain, though. Sometimes the cute ones end up like Peter with his heart of gold, sometimes they end up a bit more psychopathic like Hunter. I'm not sure if I should feel honored or not that he is topping your hated-characters list!

@Straitjacketed You certainly did pick the right time! And yes, Hunter has had a successful hunt! But how long will it remain successful?

@blackbound Given the fate of your Therapist, that doesn't bode well for Hunter! It is a bit complicated though, isn't it? You gotta feel for Markus' plight, but on the other hand, it is an extremely hot scenario...

@Guardianbound The agony I felt at reading your initial guess regarding Hunter's delivery, and not being able to confirm it immediately was torturous! I applaud you for being able to (mostly) correctly predict what Hunter was planning! We'll have to see if any other predictions come true or not! Villains are always so cocky, right up until the end...

@harveygasson Dastardly, wicked, sick, twisted, evil... I'm glad that Hunter has made such an impact on all you wonderful readers! Thank you for your compliment! It means a lot! I hope Hunter continues to live up to your expectations!


Thank you, everyone, for taking the time to comment! I truly, truly appreciate it! I know this was a very anticipated chapter, and I'm so happy it was so well received! I leave you to speculate how all of this will end! Stay tuned for the next chapter!

[KidnappedCowboy]

I wrote earlier that we eagerly anticipated Hunter taunting Markus, but I never expected it would be so sadistic and vile!

You have outdone yourself, @gag1195, with this update. I just finished a mystery novel where the bad guys leave one of the protagonists tied up in a hole in the ground to rot away. And I watch a German series about a forest ranger, who suffers from claustrophobia. In one episode he lays trapped in a collapsed mine. The fear and terror each character experiences was palpable to me as the reader/viewer. You achieve that, @gag1195, with Markus in this update. I never imagined the bolthole where Hunter would stash Markus away would be Hunter's own closet. Markus is unable to move, confined as he is in the sleep sack. He is unable to speak or see unless Hunter removes his gag and blindfold. Locked away in the closet...It will be as if he is mummified alive and in his own tomb! Then, Hunter taunts Markus with his "breakup" with Peter, only to then pleasure himself. I felt Markus' revulsion and was so glad he looked away.

Your choice of Hunter as a name is so very ironic, @gag1195. He is no true hunter. Hunters respect their prey. Hunter is heartless.

I eagerly await your next chapter, my friend!

[gag1195]

Apologies for the slight delay, friends! This behemoth of a chapter ended up taking longer than I initially thought, and I kept changing how I wanted to format this chapter (and the next few chapters going forward!) But it is finally here! I hope you all enjoy!


Part 28: Don’t Go Breaking My Heart

Monday

Peter

Connor had been right. When the police pulled up to Markus’ house, they took Peter’s and Connor’s statements and then brought Peter in for more questioning.

So there Peter was, sitting in one of the precinct’s interview rooms, repeating himself again. His anger was rising. While the police were wasting their time hearing Peter’s story over and over again, Markus was out there somewhere, possibly in danger, or kidnapped, or injured. Were they even looking for him?

“As I said”, Peter continued, “Markus and I texted each other around lunchtime on Friday. I had to work late, so I didn’t get home until just before 6:30. When I got home, I saw a text from him breaking up with me. I called and texted but he never responded. So I called my friend, Liam, and we went to the Cloak and Dagger Club to look for Markus. We were supposed to go there together, so I thought I might find him there. We didn’t. We left and I spent most of the weekend at Liam’s apartment. I went back to my apartment late Sunday night, and still hadn’t heard from Markus since that breakup text. This morning, I got a call from one of Markus’ friends, Lauren, asking me to go check on Markus. When I got to his house, it looked deserted. That’s when I called the cops.”

The detective sitting across from Peter, a no nonsense woman in a red button-down who introduced herself simply as Sullivan, looked at her pad of notes again, then back up at Peter. “When did you leave work?”

“Right around 6.”

“And you got back to your apartment…”

“Almost at 6:30 on the dot. A few minutes before, I guess.” Peter finished.

“Can anyone corroborate this information?” She tapped her pen against the paper.

“My friend, Liam. Liam Matsuoka. He’s also my co-worker and cubicle-mate. He left around the same time as I did. Also, my co-worker Suzie- Susan Goodman. We were all working late. I’m sure you could also check with the building’s security.”

She raised her eyebrow at Peter’s barely disguised frustration. “And when you got home?”

Peter huffed. “I checked my phone, saw the breakup text, and went upstairs.”

“And the apartment was empty?”

“Yes. Markus wasn’t there, and neither was my roommate, Hunter Scott.”

“And you were expecting one or both of them to be there?”

“Yes… and no.” Peter breathed again, trying to calm himself. “Markus and I planned on meeting at my apartment before going to the club. So I expected to see him there.”

“But not Hunter?”

“No, he was going to some sort of meet-and-greet with some other coders he works with. He was supposed to let Markus in, then head out.”

“But Markus never arrived?” She asked so casually, making Peter even angrier.

“I guess so. Hunter said that when he left, Markus hadn’t shown up, and he figured we had changed the plans without updating him.”

“Why would he assume that?”

Peter rubbed the back of his neck. “Well, we hadn’t been on the best of terms lately.” He paused, expecting the detective to say something, but she seemed content to wait for Peter to continue. So he did. “Hunter had a crush on me, and didn’t get along with Markus. He was jealous that Markus and I were dating, lied to me about some petty and stupid stuff, and I finally told him off. We talked it out and are starting to get back to good terms.”

“Hmm…” She mumbled, mostly to herself, before asking more questions. “So, you get to your empty apartment, then what?”

“I called and texted Markus too many times to count. No response. So I called Liam to come over and calm me down. We went to the club-”

“The Cloak and Dagger?”

“Yes. Markus and I were supposed to go there for a bit before going back to Markus’ place. I thought he might be there, so I went to confront him about dumping me.”

“But you didn’t find Markus at the club?” Peter shook his head. “And is there anyone, besides Liam, who can back this up?”

She’s trying to poke holes in my story. She’s trying to catch me in a lie. Peter tried to bury his anger again. “One of the owners/bartenders, Kyle Jameson. We talked briefly and I asked him to keep an eye out for Markus in case he showed up.”

She scribbled a few more notes. “And then you and Liam left the club? What time was that?”

Peter scrunched up his face. “Hunter called me back, as we were leaving the club, around 8? Confirmed that Markus never showed up. So Liam and I went back to his apartment. We spent the rest of the weekend at his apartment, bitching about failed relationships, watching shitty reality tv, and eating a bunch of takeout.”

“So let’s talk about today. You’re at work and you get a call.”

“Correct. I was at work and got a call from Markus’ friend, Lauren Brown. She wanted me to go check on Markus. He didn’t show up for work, so his school started calling. When they couldn’t reach him, they called Lauren, who is his listed emergency contact. She called me.”

“Why did she call you?”

“Because she lives in California, and also couldn’t get ahold of him. She called me because she thought Markus and I were still together. She didn’t know he broke up with me, so she thought I might know where he was. She asked me to go check on him, so I went over to his house.”

“And when you got there?” She flipped the page and looked over the notes from Peter’s statements.

“I saw that Markus’ car was in the driveway and assumed he was home. But he didn’t answer when I knocked and rang the doorbell. So I let myself in. And the house was empty. No sign of Markus.”

She looked up. “And that’s when you called the police?”

“Well, first, I got a call from Connor Malloy, who told me to go outside and call the police. Then, yes, I called the police.”

More furious scribbling before the detective looked up at Peter again. “Thank you Mr. Wilson.” She stood up and gathered up her notes. “If you wouldn’t mind waiting here for just a little bit longer.”

It wasn’t a question. Connor warned him that the police would detain him, and Peter expected this. Peter was the jilted ex-boyfriend whose ex has possibly gone missing, and was the last person with any confirmed contact with the missing person. He had access to Markus’ house, and his alibi almost exclusively involved his close friend and co-worker. On paper, Peter knew he could easily fit the police narrative. He couldn’t let it get to him. He had to keep reminding himself that they were just doing their job.

“Can I file a missing person report now? I’m worried about Markus. Especially if no one has seen or heard from him since Friday night. Isn’t that enough time to file an official report?”

“If you could just be patient a bit longer, I’ll be back and then we can talk about making a report.” With that, Detective Sullivan left Peter alone in the interview room.

Alone. Waiting. While Markus was out there, missing, or in danger, or… And Peter was stuck sitting there. I should be out there looking for Markus. Doing something… Instead I’m just sitting here, answering the same questions over and over again.

And that was the worst part. Stuck, alone with the questions and the worry. Chief among them was, why did Peter care so much? If Markus had truly dumped him, Peter shouldn’t care this much about it all. But he did. Ex-boyfriend or not, Peter had to know that Markus was safe.

And he was just sitting there doing nothing!

Peter huffed again, and adjusted the cuffs of his shirt. He’d dressed plainly, not having any energy after a weekend of wallowing, so when he begrudgingly rolled out of bed this morning, he’d thrown on a simple blue oxford and black slacks. Sitting in the interview room now, Peter was glad he’d forgotten a tie. He would have found the pressure around his neck stifling during Detective Sullivan’s questioning.

What was she doing? Was she sitting on the other side of the one-way glass watching him? Was she waiting for him to break, crack, give her something to support her theories? Or was she actually going to check something?

Peter stewed on those questions for a while, unsure how long he’d been in the room. But before long, his thoughts turned to Markus. Ever since Connor had called him, Peter had been worried about Markus. The chilling, silent walk through his empty house was enough to send him into a panic.

Peter tried to deny it, but the feeling wouldn’t go away. This was serious. Markus wouldn’t miss work without a very good reason. He wouldn’t not tell Lauren, his best friend, about the breakup. That was the first thing Peter did when he could think- call his best friend to vent. Not even Connor had any idea about the weekend. Had that text been some sort of desperate attempt to reach out, to send a message? Where are you, Markus? What’s going on?

Just as Peter was starting to spiral, gripping his arms as tightly as he could, Detective Sullivan returned. She kept her trained, cool demeanor as she sat back down and faced Peter.

“Well, Mr. Wilson, I appreciate your patience today. I’m sorry for taking so much of your time.” She produced a piece of paper and slid it across the bare table, followed by a pen. Peter saw that it was a Missing Persons Report. Some of Markus’ information had already been filled in. “If you would, please fill out any and all remaining information. Any details you can think of, nothing is too small to mention. After that, you are free to go.”

Peter’s eyes went wide. He wanted to scream. He wanted to leap over the table to shout in her face all of the rage that had been building since he got to the precinct. “Really?” Peter asked through gritted teeth and barely contained exasperation.

“Really. But, I strongly advise you to remain in the area. And to make yourself available for any follow up questions we might have for you.”

—--

Connor met Peter outside the precinct and immediately wrapped him into a hug. Peter sank into it, tension beginning to melt since he got to Markus’ that morning. He glanced up and paused. The Sun had moved far across the sky. He looked at Connor who nodded.

“Just after lunchtime.” He guided Peter to his car. “They kept you in there so long, I was starting to get worried that you’d actually been arrested.”

Peter shook his head. “The detective certainly thought I might be good for it. Had me stewing in there. I was about to lose it.”

Connor began driving them through the city, and Peter realized that they were heading toward his office building. “Well, she wasn’t just letting you sweat. She and her fellow officers have been talking to just about everyone we know. I think they were trying to confirm your story. The officers talked to me, Liam, Kyle, and Lauren a little bit after you got taken in. I guess we backed up enough details for them to let you go.”

“Lauren? She’s here?” Peter was shocked, but supposed he really shouldn’t be. If they were as close as Markus had implied, it made sense for her to make her way here.

Connor nodded. “I called her right after you, on my way to Markus’ house. She was already at the airport. She landed about an hour ago. Dropped her off at the Cloak and Dagger and headed straight to you.”

“So what now? I filed a report, but I can’t just sit around and do nothing. Not if Markus is in danger.” Peter balled up his fists.

Connor sighed. “You’re going back to work. Especially if the police are still eyeing you as a suspect. Don’t give them a reason to detain you again.”

“You’re fucking joking, right?” Peter faced Connor as much as the seat would allow. “Markus is out there, hurt or worse, and you want me to go sit in my cubicle? No way. Not happening!”

“It has to!” Connor yelled. Loud and deep. Peter shrank back. He’d never seen the personal trainer this way. “It sucks, Peter. It hurts. I get it. But you need to listen to me, damn it!” Connor pounded the steering wheel. “Markus is missing and the police suspect you. Even if they let you go, there’s no reason to think they won’t bring you in again. Besides, nothing good is going to come from you losing your job.”

“But-”

Connor cut him off. “Lauren and I are going to set up at the Cloak and Dagger. Kyle is going to help us organize things there. You and Liam can join us after work.” The car came to a stop outside Peter’s office building and Connor faced him square on. “We’re going to find Markus. I promise. We just need to be patient and methodical. I need you to trust me. If we find out anything, you will be the first call I make. I swear it.”

Peter took a few deep breaths. “First call?”

Connor traced his finger over his chest. “Cross my heart. I’ve got your and Liam’s numbers, so if I can’t reach you, Liam will be my second call.” He reached over to hug Peter again. “Just go up there and try to get some work done. Join us at the club later.”

“Thank you, Connor.” Peter squeezed him back. “You don’t know what this means.”

—--

Of course, Peter couldn’t focus on any amount of work. Especially not with Liam, Suzie, and even their boss asking him endless questions. Liam and Suzie confirmed Connor’s explanation. Each had been individually interviewed by the police regarding details from Friday and the weekend. Their boss, hardass as he was, also complied and allowed one of the officers to confirm dates on the security footage.

Peter alternated between checking Markus’ socials, and inputting the same data into a spreadsheet. When the end of the day finally arrived, he dragged Liam out the door and to the Cloak and Dagger.

Connor hadn’t exaggerated either. They had commandeered the VIP lounge upstairs, the tables pushed together like a conference room. Phones, laptops, notepads, strewn all over the tables. Connor was sitting there, at the head of the table, naturally leading things. Peter saw Kyle and Santiago, but did a double take when he saw Kit leaning over their computer. Next to Connor, Peter recognized Lauren. Short but thin, he short cropped brown hair was pressed down with a headband.

Everyone paused and smiled when Peter and Liam appeared at the top of the stairs. Hugs and greetings and introductions were exchanged, and then everyone quickly fell back into the work they’d been engaged with before the accountants’ arrival.

“Kit is finalizing flyer designs.” Connor explained, and the performer waved absentmindedly. “Kyle and Santiago have been calling as many places as we can think of that Markus might have been.” Both men nodded, briefly looking up from their phone calls. Peter saw the laptop between them had a map of business and after each call, the pair were crossing names off their list. “Lauren is doing the same, but with any of Markus’ contacts we haven’t talked to yet.”

Lauren gave Peter an empathetic glance. “I’ve already called Markus’ brother and updated him. Dean hasn’t heard from Markus since last Wednesday. I’ve promised to keep him informed. Their cousins likewise, haven’t heard from him. No one at school either.” Peter could hear her voice starting to crack. Connor placed a firm hand on her shoulder, which seemed to steady her.

“What can we do?” Peter couldn’t continue to sit there and do nothing. He needed a task, a job, something to do to help things.

“Liam, help Kyle and Santiago make some calls. You can help them get to a few more before places start to close.” Liam nodded to the in-control redhead and joined the bartender and mechanic at the table. “Peter, I need you to tell me exactly what you told the police. We need as complete a timeline as we can get, and hopefully narrow things down…”

—--

Markus

The rest of Markus’ weekend had been a blur. In part, thanks to the near constant darkness he found himself trapped in. It was hard to get a sense of time, hard to track the passing of hours or days. And also in part because of the drugged water Hunter kept giving him. Fading in and out, coming out of the fog did nothing to help him temporally orient himself.

Hunter had reappeared hours after leaving Markus on Saturday. Was it still Saturday, or had the clock ticked over into Sunday? It was impossible to say. Hunter went on and on about his date, how he kept picturing Peter in his date’s place, and how lovely it was to enjoy the great weekend weather. The remainder of the smoothie and more water, and Markus was out again, adrift in the void, the forced but thankfully dreamless sleep.

When Markus awoke again, perhaps on Sunday, he felt immediate wetness. He shifted, trying to blindly determine what was happening. And then, in spite of everything else happening, he felt shame, embarrassment.

Markus had wet himself. The beer, the water, and smoothie, the forced muscle relaxation of the drugs, Markus had wet the bed, or sleepsack, in this case. Cold and clammy, and no relief from the smell, Markus cried out. Not necessarily for Hunter. Markus doubted his captor would have any sympathy for his plight, but he cried out nonetheless.

More tears, more pained whining. Markus was sure how long he was awake before he heard the door unlock and open.

Hunter immediately and dramatically gagged. “Jeez, Markus, it reeks in here!” He laughed and leaned down to grab what he could of Markus’ hair. “Did someone have an accident?” He’d shifted into baby talk, speaking down to his captive. “A shame. And not very attractive.”

He forced more smoothie in Markus’ mouth and left him, returning a short while later with what Markus quickly and painfully realized was a catheter. Afterwards, more drugged water and Markus spent the rest of what he could only guess was Sunday in sleepy stupor.

In and out, darkness of sleep and darkness of blindfold, Occasional liquid meals and water, continued taunting from Hunter. Spiraling thoughts haunted Markus whenever he was lucid enough to form any thoughts at all. Fear for his future, his safety, nagging concerns about his students and lesson plans and co-workers, laments about never seeing Dean or Lauren or Connor again. And at the core of it all, the deep abiding sadness that he would never see Peter again. Never get to hold his boyfriend, laugh with him, grow with him. Hunter replacing him in Peter’s life caused chills to run down his spine.

Peter…

—--

When Consciousness next came to Markus, he almost choked on the smell. Hunter may have forced a catheter into him, but he’d done nothing for the other end. Markus felt gross and uncomfortable and shamed.

When Hunter visited him, he mostly kept his distance, except to give him food and water. His taunting was done at a distance. His work was now being completed in his bedroom instead of his converted closet.

When he entered this time, he practically bounced over to the captive teacher. It was Monday, by Markus’ estimation. Nearly three full days since he’d been kidnapped. Despite the smell, Hunter jovially walked right up to his prisoner and squatted down next to Markus. Blindfold removed, Markus was greeted by a beamng Hunter. His eyes were lit up and he looked so happy it was almost deranged.

“Guess what, Markus?” He almost yelled. “You’re officially a missing person!” Hunter playfully pet Markus’ hair and face, holding on to the straps of his muzzle and shaking his head back and forth. “I just had a lengthy conversation with a police officer. Here in the apartment! Imagine, your salvation was twenty feet away, and he had no idea!” Hunter stopped shaking his victim and stood up, his smile remaining the entire time. “Peter mentioned me in his own statements so the good officer needed to corroborate the information.”

Hunter’s demeanor shifted. The smile faded, replaced with confusion, concern even. “I’m sorry, Officer, I wish I could be more helpful. But when I left the apartment around 6, Markus had never showed up. Initially, I’d assumed he and Peter made different plans. I left and met up with my freelance coding group. I was in an escape room for a while and then networking, then I finally saw that Peter had called and texted… a lot. I called him back and that’s when he explained that Markus dumped him. I offered to meet him, leave my meet-up early, but Peter insisted that he was fine. I think he spent the rest of the weekend with his friend Liam. I didn’t get back to the apartment until very late Friday night. I’d hit it off with one of the coders and it sort of turned into a date. We met up again Saturday. I didn’t see Peter until Sunday night and he went straight to bed almost as soon as he got home. Of course I can get you a list of names for the escape room meet-up…”

Markus moaned into his muzzle. He’s actually going to get away with it. He’s actually going to pull this insanity off…

Hunter’s dramatic sorrow continued. “Oh poor Peter. His boyfriend, sorry ex-boyfriend, is officially missing. He’ll be devastated, broken up, in shambles. The search will last a few weeks, and then the case will go cold, as will any hope of Peter finding you. Luckily, his roommate Hunter will be there, providing much needed emotional support. Peter will grieve, but eventually turn to Hunter to satisfy other needs. And soon Markus will be just a sad memory, a stepping stone on the way to Hunter’s and Peter’s happiness together!”

—--

Peter

It was after midnight when Peter returned to the apartment. He and Connor and Lauren went over Peter’s story and details too many times to count. Lauren continually interrupted, asking questions, seeking clarification. Her brow remained tightly furrowed all night. Connor tried to keep spirits as light as he could, but the entire lounge was tense.

“Go home.” Connor commanded. “Sleep. Sleep in your own bed. Shower. It will do you a world of good. We’ll start fresh in the morning.” Peter had protested, wanting to stay, to help, to search. But deep down, he knew Connor was right. Infuriatingly. He was no good to Markus, or any of them, if he worked himself to death while searching for his boyfriend.

He sighed when Hunter sprang up from the couch the moment he entered the door. He had no energy to deal with his roommate right now.

“Peter!” Hunter called, relief in his voice. “I was debating if I should call you. I wasn’t sure if you’d be back tonight. I heard about Markus. The police came and interviewed me about Friday night. Oh my gosh, how are you holding up?”

“I’m really tired, Hunter. I just want to go to bed.” Peter pushed his way past his roommate and steered himself towards his bedroom.

“I understand.” Hunter’s voice cracked. And suddenly, Hunter’s arms were around Peter. “I know you want your space, but I’m here if you need to talk.” A quick squeeze and then Hunter retreated, practically running down the hall to his room.

I just can’t figure him out at all. Lying about cookies one minute, offering genuine care the next… Peter shook his head. Hunter’s eccentricities were the last thing he needed to worry about.

Markus was still missing. Missing for three days. Going on four. That was all that mattered. Peter had to find him. He had to.