Nick balled his hands into fists and glared at the man before him with that stupid, smug smile on his face. He began to wonder how this had turned out to be so complicated.
"Well, you can't have it both ways, AJ," he said. "It's not fair to either of us."
"But what if I'm having fun?" AJ asked, still stretched out on the bed with his legs hanging over the side, except now they were swinging like a happy child's.
"That's just too damn bad. Brian or me?"
AJ sat up and leaned forward, pulling a pack of cigarettes and a lighter from his back pocket.
"You really want me to choose then, huh?"
Nick watched him expertly light a cigarette and nodded.
"Yes, I do," he said, doing his best to keep his voice from trembling, and trying desperately to ignore the sad feeling descending upon him because he knew Brian would be the ultimate winner in this game.
AJ puffed away, staring at a spot just above Nick's head. "Then I need some time to think," he finally said.
"Fine. I'll leave you alone."
"What? You mean I'm supposed to just decide right here?! I can't do that!"
"Tough. You can either do it here, or in your room. I don't care. But you're deciding today."
"Where are you going?" AJ demanded as Nick walked past him.
"Not far. I'll be back in time for the press conference later. Happy thinking."
Nick quickly made his exit, leaving AJ alone with his thoughts before making his way down the hall. He rapped lightly on the door to room number 1512, praying it wasn't empty. A moment later, the sleepy occupant peeked out at him and frowned.
"Nick? What's wrong?" he asked, rubbing his eyes. "Is everyone okay?" Nick answered by pushing his way inside and kicking the door shut with a sound click. His heart was pounding as he advanced towards the other man. He knew this was wrong, that he was acting out of hurt and anger, but he didn't stop himself.
"Nick, what are you doing?" came a hushed whisper of confusion mixed with sudden desire.
"Shhh," Nick said, pressing a finger to parted lips. "Just be quiet and go with it, Kevin."