Raven sat on the end of the bed, staring at his lover as Michael stood
staring out the window.  He could still remember the anger that flowed
through him when he'd seen Tazz with his hands on Michael.  Raven had
wanted to wring Tazz's neck.

"Michael, why didn't you tell me about Tazz?"

Michael shrugged his shoulders.  "I wanted to handle him on my own.  I
didn't want you to have to fight my battles for me."

"Even when this battle was more then you could handle?  Michael, Tazz is
not a guy to mess around with.  He could've hurt you, and you know it."

"I know.  I just......"

"Just what?"

"I didn't want you to think I was a crybaby."

Raven's fists clenched and he wanted to kick Tazz's ass all over again.
Getting up, he moved behind Michael, pulling his lover back into his
arms.  "You aren't a crybaby, Michael Cole.  You're my baby, and coming
to me when someone threatens you will not make me think any less of
you."

"But, it makes me weak."

Raven tightened his hold on Michael, kissing his neck.  "It makes you
smart, Michael.  You aren't a wrestler and no one expects you to be able
to take on someone like Tazz."

Michael's hands gripped Raven's and he leaned back against him.  "I'm
sorry I didn't tell you."

"That's okay, baby.  Just trust me from now on.  If someone threatens
you or you're scared of something, tell me.  Even if it's a situation
you want to handle, I can be there to help you.  Back up is never a bad
idea."

Michael nodded.  "I will, I promise.  What about Tazz?"

"I think Tazz has learned his lesson.  He knows that I'm not the sharing
type, and I don't like someone trespassing.  But if he tries anything,
we'll find a way to get through to him.  I'm sure between the two of us
we could come up with a suitable retaliation."

Michael smiled as he turned in his lover's arms.  "I love the way your
devious mind works, Raven."

"Thank you.  Now, let's not talk about that thug anymore.  I can think
of better things to occupy our time."

Raven moved back, pushing Michael onto the bed.  All thoughts of Tazz
disappeared as Raven's lips met Michael's, then all coherent thoughts
left their minds as they lost themselves in each other's arms.
    THE END