It’s Important

Attitude is everything. Zachary told himself as he finished grabbing his meal for the day, an apple. It wasn’t much, but he had to be careful with his money. Since he’d eaten some chicken yesterday, today was going to be fruit. Licking his lips, his eyes glanced sideways toward a head of broccoli and he felt his stomach constrict with need.

No. You can’t have it. A vegetable is tomorrow. Today is a cheap fruit.

He stared down at the red apple in his dirty hand and forced a smile. It wasn’t ideal, and he would have loved to be able to afford the broccoli as well, but he knew saving his money was more important than being full. He’d live with just the apple. Nodding to himself, Zachary turned and strode past the vegetables and walked up to the ‘10 items or less’ line. The person working the register smiled and greeted him. She was an older woman who had worked there for as long as he could remember, so they knew each other somewhat well.

“How has your day been, Zachary?” She asked as she rung up the apple and he handed over the forty-nine cents it cost.

“Good Mrs. Besby. Going job hunting again after breakfast.”

The woman nodded and smiled as she handed the apple back over to him.

“Best of luck, young one. I know you can do it.”

Zachary grinned and winked. “I’ve got it, today for sure.”

The woman nodded again and made a funny cheering gesture with her wrinkled fist. “Go get em, tiger.”

With a slight skip to his step, Zachary headed outside and immediately began eating his breakfast. While the apple wasn’t much, it definitely soothed his aching stomach, allowing him to start thinking more clearly. He’d noticed a few places north of where he lived that had Help Wanted signs in their windows so he figured he could try those first. Of course, with his ratty clothing and dirty appearance, he wasn’t sure how well he’d manage first appearances, but he knew he was an asset if anyone would just give him a chance.

His feet stopped outside of a nightclub about two streets away from his alley home. The building was silent and loomed over its neighbors, boasting three stories were most of the buildings around only had two, or just one. One of his good friends, though the man likely didn’t think so, was the bouncer at the club. Zachary had literally run into him one night while trying to maneuver through a crowd he hadn’t realized was just waiting to get into the club.

Maybe I’ll finally make him smile tonight.

The man was always stone-faced, even when dealing with drunken patrons.

I’m gonna crack that frown!

Grinning to himself, Zachary felt the need to run well up in his chest, so he obliged and bounded down the slowly busying streets. People were coming and going, most heading to work while those from the night shifts trudged home sleepily. Living in an alley, Zachary didn’t sleep much. He got just enough to keep himself going, though last night he did manage to get a few extra hours in preparation for today’s job hunt.

His attitude remained positive, even as he began to rack up rejections. He almost wished he had a phone so that they could at least give him some kind of hope by telling him that they’d call tomorrow instead of just saying that they had more qualified candidates that had already applied, though he didn’t know how someone could be more qualified to stock food or fold clothing. Grumbling to himself, Zachary finally turned into his alley and sat down against the wall by the entrance, his eyes staring down at the dirty ground between his legs.

My jeans have a new hole…

It wasn’t in an obvious spot being on the inside of his leg, but it would definitely be more noticeable soon. Leaning back, he felt his head press against the worn brick behind him. The sky, beginning to dim as day became night, loomed overhead. Clouds were also pooling over the city, foretelling an incoming storm. Zachary slowly stood, looking over at the awning he used to sleep beneath to avoid getting soaked by the rain. It had far too many holes in it now to be of any help for the night’s storm.

“Guess I’ll be getting a shower tonight.” He said with a chuckle as he headed back toward the club he’d visited earlier. Judging from the dimming light, he knew it had to be around seven or so. The nightclub wouldn’t be busy for awhile, but that just meant he’d have time to talk with George, the bouncer for a bit.

Money weighing heavy in his pocket and hunger weighing far greater on his stomach, Zachary headed off toward the club. When he didn’t notice George standing outside he walked past, knowing that he wouldn’t be allowed inside because of his age… and likely his dirty and torn clothing. So, he just kept walking, finding himself inside the grocery store for a second time that day.

No. You already got your food for today, tomorrow you can get some broccoli.

No matter how much he repeated those words in his head, he couldn’t help but find his way over to the vegetables. His stomach growled, begging for him to just reach out and take something. Anything.

“Hello dear, how was your day? Did you find anywhere to work yet?”

Zachary squeaked, jumping from surprise as he turned to see the old cashier from earlier behind a cart with a few groceries in it.

“Oh, Mrs. Brisby. Hello, I didn’t get anything today, but tomorrow, for sure.” He said with an upbeat voice, even though the knot in his stomach tightened abruptly, making him wince.

“That’s too bad. Well, I’d like some broccoli but I can never finish one of those big ones, but this granny doesn’t like frozen food. If I buy one, will you take half so that it’s not wasted?”

His tongue tied immediately, making words unable to leave his mouth. Stunned, Zachary just nodded as his stomach growled audibly, making the old woman chuckle as she picked out the biggest head of broccoli she could find. Not knowing what else to do, Zachary followed her to the register but then moved past it to stand against the wall near the exit, not wanting to seem intrusive. When she’d finally paid for her food and pushed the cart over to him, she took out the broccoli and tried to break it in half. She struggled with it for just a moment, then gave up with a shrug and offered it all to him.

“It appears like this old granny can’t pull apart broccoli anymore. Ah well, I’m not really hungry for it now, you take it.”

He thought he was going to pass out. It might not be much to most people, but it was an amazing dinner to him. “Thank you ma’am!” Zachary said a bit too loudly. The woman didn’t seem to mind though, and the store was mostly empty so it wasn’t a big deal.

“You’re welcome, son. Best get going, the store is closing in a few minutes.”

With that she sauntered slowly out of the store with her one bag of groceries after returning the cart. Zachary took a moment to regroup his thoughts before heading out as well, turning once back outside to head back toward the club. As he walked he dug into his food, getting odd looks from random people on the sidewalk but not caring in the least. He was going to enjoy his dinner!

He’d finished about a forth of the broccoli by the time he arrived at the club. George was standing outside, already checking ID’s for those that came early. When he finished a particularly large group he glanced up and noticed Zachary. There was no smile for him, but he was used to that. With his own wide smile Zachary walked over.

“Hey George, how has your day been?” He asked cheerfully. The large man turned to check three more ID’s before he looked back at Zachary and answered in a deep, rumbling voice. “Pretty good. How has yours been, kid?”

Pursing his lips, Zachary let the kid jest slide, knowing that grumbling to George about it wouldn’t help.

“Pretty good. Still looking for a job, but I’m sure I’ll get one soon.” He said cheerfully. George grunted in response and began checking more IDs, only to suddenly stop when someone came out of the club. The man was surprisingly gorgeous, in a handsome sort of way, of course. He was wearing fitted leather pants, though they appeared stylish and not just tight. Raising his eyes from them, Zachary noticed that he was completely bare-chested. And what a chest it was. After a moment of staring his eyes rose the rest of the way, allowing him to take in the man’s square, stubbled jaw, messy black hair, and cold blue eyes.

“Excuse me, but who are you? We don’t allow loitering.”

Zachary had to refocus his attention, then repeat the man’s words in his mind before he was able to answer. “I-I’m sorry, s-sir.”

Immediately Zachary’s eyes dropped to his worn out shoes. The souls of them long-since detached and just barely clinging to the fabric by a few threads.

“You need to leave, guests are complaining about someone sometimes standing out here begging.”

It hurt that people had lied about him. He’d never begged for anything in his life, and especially not when talking with George. He wouldn’t argue though, and quickly backed up a few steps, then apologized one more time before darting away down the street. As he ran he heard George begin to say something, but got too far away too fast to catch any of it. When he was finally safe in his alley several blocks away Zachary walked down it about halfway and slid down the wall to the ground. The action made his dirty, previously-shirt ride up a little, but the slight scratch the wall gave his back didn’t matter much. He was more frustrated that he’d actually bothered people enough just talking with someone he wanted to consider a friend. He didn’t really have any, but George at least talked to him once in awhile and didn’t seem to mind his company.

Stay positive. Not everyone is going to be nice.

Zachary nodded and leaned back, looking at his hand… where his dinner had been. Tears immediately stung at his eyes. The food wasn’t as important as the feeling of losing the gift the woman had graciously given him. To add insult to upset, the sky finally decided to open up and drenched him in seconds.

Well, at least the rain isn’t too cold tonight.

The thought made him smile, even if he was getting soaked to the bone and beginning to shiver. He hunched, trying to get as close to the wall as possible to stem the water that could hit him. When he turned against it to rest a bit more comfortably, he noticed a silhouette in the rain at the entrance to the alley. Zachary fidgeted and stumbled to his feet right away, worried that he was going to have to fight. For what, he wasn’t sure. He only had a few bills to his name, and his clothing was in tatters. There was nothing worth taking in the alley, including himself.

He hoped that the silhouette would just disappear, curiosity sated that there was nothing worth bothering with in the dirty alleyway. Unfortunately, he wasn’t that lucky. In fact, another form joined the first. The rain was too heavy to be able to see them clearly but he wasn’t interested in waiting until they came closer. Hoping that they hadn’t seen him yet in the downpour, Zachary began backing up, moving until his back was firmly pressed against the far wall some twenty yards from the entrance where the two people were standing.

Just go away, please. I don’t have anything for you to take!

When they did the exact opposite, Zachary knew he had to get ready to fight. His blood pumped fast, heart thrumming hard against his chest. It wasn’t until George appeared through the downpour that he felt all of the adrenaline suddenly leave his body.

“Hey kid, you dropped your food.”

Zachary looked down at George’s hands, then back up to his face. He hadn’t brought it back, so why mention it?

“It’s o-okay,” he stuttered anyways, shrugging, though it was stiff from the cold seeping through his bones. George’s normal frown deepened before he was suddenly nudged aside.

The other man.

Zachary immediately stepped to the side, wanting to get away. George easily blocked him with his towering size though, forcing him to hesitantly look up at the other man. He was soaked as well, but since he wasn’t wearing a shirt, most of the water just ran off of his sculpted body. Zachary assumed he was going to get lectured on going near the club again, or maybe for dropping his food, but when the large man knelt down, he flinched and dropped his eyes to his shoes.

“Hey…”

Shivers began along his spine, then quickly traveled all the way to his fingertips and toes.

“Come back with us to warm up, please? I apologize for judging the situation so quickly.”

Even though the offer was more than generous, Zachary couldn’t help but shake his head. He was more than content to accept the apology and leave it at that, but evidently the man had other ideas. Zachary could feel his eyes on him, and when the man’s next baritone words finally came, he couldn’t help but answer.

“What is your name?”

“Z-Zachary.”

A large, slightly-tanned hand appeared in front of his eyes after he spoke.

“Zachary, come back with me.”

He wanted to tell him no, but the word was stuck on his tongue. When the man’s fingers curled slightly, beckoning him, he reached up slowly and found himself placing his own dirty hand atop his. The man tugged him gently and turned to face the entrance to the alley. George was standing there now, waiting but not paying them any mind as he looked down the sidewalk. Zachary trusted him, but his friend from the club was someone he wasn’t sure about.

“Zachary?”

Blinking away some raindrops on his eyelashes, Zachary glanced up, unable to meet the man’s eyes but at least managing to get close and stare at his neck.

“Come.”

The man squeezed his hand, then began walking. It was against his better judgement to do it, but he couldn’t disobey any longer. His right foot lifted, then moved forward and splashed into a dirty puddle. His left one soon followed, and pretty soon he was walking, following a man he didn’t know back to a club he’d never been inside of. As they moved, Zachary found himself finally lifting his eyes high enough to watch the man’s face through the heavy rain. He stared for only a moment before he was caught looking and abruptly looked down. Instead of saying anything though, the man just gave his hand another gentle squeeze as he lead him away from the home he’d known for the past three years.

(Not sure if this idea is actually going to go anywhere, but it wouldn’t get out of my head until I typed it ._.)

Storming Thoughts

They didn’t stop walking until they were facing a light brown door in the alley beside the club. The man slowly released his hand and fished a small key from his pocket. While the storm drowned out any noise from the club with the door shut, as soon as the man opened it and stepped inside, a loud booming bass reverberated into Zachary’s body. It made him step back, unsure and more than a bit worried. He’d never wanted to go inside the building, not even out of curiosity. After another step backward the other man stepped back out, his lips turned down into a frown, no doubt a bit frustrated that Zach wasn’t making this easier on him. The man stopped about two feet away, wisely deciding not to crowd him.

“Zachary?”

Zach chewed his lower lip nervously as he let his eyes lift to just-barely meet the man’s.

“Stay here. I will be right back.”

When the man disappeared Zachary knew that was his chance. Yet his feet wouldn’t move. He’d never had trouble doing what was better for himself, but now his mind was just refusing to listen… to anyone besides the man he didn’t even know!

Come on. You can’t just do what he tells you!

It was pitch black inside the open doorway and the cold air from the air conditioner didn’t feel any kind of good to his already-frozen body. After about five minutes he looked up to see that the man had returned. He was holding several things in his arms but set them down to the side when he saw Zachary. Being watched again made him take another step back. The poor guy felt like a starving alley cat that wasn’t sure if the niceties of a human it had never met meant that it would get a meal and a warm place to sleep, or be trapped and carted off to animal control. When the rain began to turn into hail, however, Zachary knew he would be in real trouble if he stayed outside too much longer. The temperature was dropping fast, too, and the hail was already beginning to hurt his raw skin.

“Come inside, Zachary. I locked the other door leading into here, so no one else is going to bother you. You just have to deal with my annoying self.” The man said, then chuckled as he knelt down and began sifting through what he’d brought. With his eyes away from him, Zachary hesitantly let himself move a step closer. When the man just kept messing with his stuff, he chanced another step. Soon he was close enough to the building so that the hail and rain were blocked by the large structure. It was a relief to be free of the storm, but the air conditioning that now hit him in the face wasn’t making his decision on whether to stay or go easy.

“I had George run ahead of us as we walked to throw this blanket in the dryer and heat it up.” The man said, finally looking up at him with a warm smile. Zachary tried to return it, not wanting to seem rude, but he couldn’t stop his teeth from chattering as a new gust from the air conditioner blew against his chilled skin.

“I know this is definitely not something you’d normally hear, and I tend not to ask people to do it on a first meeting…” he smirked, silently telling Zachary that he likely did sometimes ask people what he was about to ask him. “Anyways. George warmed up a blanket for you and I brought a bunch of towels, but your clothing is completely soaked and will make those things much less effective unless you remove them.”

Heart suddenly hammering against his ribs, Zachary jerked away, taking several steps back out into the storm. He heard the man split a curse of frustration but being asked to undress by some random person he’d never met before was a bit much. The man set aside the blanket he’d been tugging at and stood, making Zachary stumble back until he was leaning against the far wall of the alley.

“Hun.”

The man shook his head, pressing his fingers to his forehead and sighing before returning his attention to him.

“Zachary, come here.”

It was extremely frustrating. He couldn’t even think the word no, let alone get it out of his mouth. He did manage to fight the man’s order for nearly a full minute before his determination buckled and he walked over, stepping inside before he lost his nerve.

“Tha–,” the man paused, then licked his lips in thought. Zachary could tell that he had meant to say thank you, but when the man decided on something else, it actually felt more… right?

“Good boy.”

Shifting awkwardly from foot to foot, Zach looked down at his old shoes and noticed that they were making large puddles of water on the clean floor.

It’s just shoes. There’s nothing weird about taking my shoes off.

Telling himself that made it easier for him to lean over and carefully untie his treasured, worn-out sneakers. The right one was removed first, then the left. Dark red marks marred his bare feet from years of wearing the too-small shoes, but even though they hurt, they’d still saved him from walking around barefoot for three years. Sneaking a peak up at the man, Zachary felt a small odd niggle in his belly at the sight of the man’s approving smile.

Biting his lip, he carefully began trying to tug his old shirt over his head. Except, the wet fabric, being too small to begin with, got stuck around his arms and head. He squirmed for a moment, trying his best to get the darn shredded fabric over his head. When he stopped to refocus, gentle, warm hands suddenly grasped his sides, thumbs pressing against his visible ribs.

“Shh. Let me help. Lift your arms straight up.”

He was having trouble breathing all of a sudden, yet he did exactly as told. The man’s hands left his chilled skin and grasped the bottom of his shirt, then easily lifted the fabric up and off.

“There we go.”

Zachary looked back up, frowning when he noticed the upset look on the man’s face. He looked down at himself, then back up, confused and worried that he’d done something wrong.

“Oh hey, hey no. It’s okay, I was just surprised.” The man said as he knelt down, making Zachary look down. His warm hands returned to his chest, thumbs slowly outlining the visible ribs there.

“I don’t like this,” the man said before he looked up to meet Zachary’s eyes.

“What have you eaten this week, Zachary?”

Embarrassment swamped his senses as Zachary tried to remember. He almost didn’t want to answer, but when the man stood and lifted his right hand, gently moving a strand of wet hair from in front of his eyes, he couldn’t stop the words from coming out.

“I-I think I had a-a peach on Monday, and um, bread on Tuesday. Yellow squash o-on Wednesday, and um, some chicken yesterday.”

Zachary could tell that the man wanted to shake his head but held back the gesture in favor of a smile.

“And today? Was the broccoli that you dropped your food for today?”

He nodded quickly, then smiled when he remembered what else he’d had. “I had an apple too. My friend works at the grocery store, she bought me the broccoli.”

“I see. Well, George picked up your broccoli and told the chef to get it washed.”

Zachary’s eyes widened with hope. “It wasn’t thrown away?”

The man chuckled and shook his head before leaning over slightly and beginning to work on Zachary’s pants. It took everything he had to keep still until his torn jeans were around his ankles. His cheeks burned, suddenly remembering a very obvious thing he shouldn’t have been able to forget… his lack of underwear. Before he could run out of the door behind him and back into the welcoming rain, a huge, soft, warm, white blanket encircled his icy cold body.

It felt like heaven. He didn’t notice at all when the man moved them into a sitting position against the doorjamb, or that he was being hugged tightly. That is until a soft towel began to slowly run through his damp hair. Instead of worrying about being naked, wrapped in a blanket, in another man’s arms, Zachary enjoyed the warmth and comfort, unable to even think about leaving again. He was, however, curious about something. Looking up, he waited for the man to move the towel so that he could see his face.

“Um…”

The towel slipped down to rest around his neck atop the blanket as he got the man’s attention.

“Yes, Zachary?”

Having the man’s eyes suddenly on his face made Zachary shrink back into the blanket before mumbling out his question. “U-um, what is your name?”

For some reason, the question seemed to surprise the man.

“Hmm. Well, I don’t usually give out my name at my place of work, but I suppose since you’re not a customer…”

Zachary waited, confused as to why he couldn’t even give out his name in a simple club.

“My name is Orion, but my friends just call me Ryan.”

Curious, Zachary replied. “I like Orion better, but what do people call you here?”

That had Orion grinning.

“Well, while this isn’t a BDSM club, we do often get some people interested in that lifestyle.”

Having been on the streets and worried about much different things, Zachary had no idea what the man was talking about. Orion seemed to pick up on his confusion when he didn’t reply, so he instead continued. “While I’m not very interested in harming anyone like some who practice the lifestyle, I am a dominant. I enjoy control, so I’ve become known as Master here.”

Ah, no wonder I found it hard not to listen to the man’s orders even though I didn’t know him. He’s used to having control and probably knows how to get people to do as he wants.

“I see.” Zachary said.

“Well, the other part of that type of relationship would be a submissive person, but we can talk about that another time if you’re still curious. For now…” He shifted Zachary’s weight in his arms, then stood, easily lifting the smaller male and beginning to carry him away from the open door.

“While I’m sure you’d like a nice hot shower and a bed, I’m more worried about filling your stomach than cleaning off whatever dirt the storm didn’t get to.” Orion said as they ducked into another room, this one far more brightly lit than the last, which had appeared to just be a basic type of storeroom. The one they were now in resembled something much more… intimate.

Zachary found himself back on his feet, wide eyes staring up Orion’s.

“The only problem with feeding you right now, would be me losing my job.”

He was confused at first, but when Orion actually laughed a little it dawned on him and he pulled the blanket tighter around himself with a blush.

“How about this. Come.” Orion said as he turned and opened a door. Zachary followed immediately, surprised when they stepped into a bathroom. It looked normal at first, with two sinks, a toilet, and a large shower that had a door of frosted glass instead of a curtain. When Orion pulled the door open, however, Zachary couldn’t help but stair at the four leather straps in the back, two fastened a few inches above his head while two others were around near where his ankles would likely come to.

“Ignore them. Like I said, it’s just something from my lifestyle, but they are only for willing participants. You wash and warm up, and I’ll go get you some dinner.”

Zachary hesitated, not sure if he was comfortable, but after he felt a gentle nudge against his back through the blanket, he decided that a shower was a rare opportunity that he couldn’t afford to waste.

“Okay. Th-thank you, Orion.”

Orion nodded and squeezed his shoulder once before turning and walking out of the bathroom. Once he heard another door close Zachary let the blanket around him drop and quickly hopped into the shower, shutting the glass door to it before beginning to work with the temperature knobs. When he got them just right he began to scrub himself to the bone, which sadly didn’t take much pressure to do.

You’re getting a real dinner tonight though, so you’re definitely going to put on some weight.

The thought made him excited. A real dinner. He hadn’t had one of those in so long. Even cooked food was rare. With a hopeful smile he lathered shampoo into his hair that smelled strongly of mint… and Orion. He was so focused on removing weeks of built-up dirt and grime in his hair that he didn’t notice someone else was there until the shower was suddenly turned off, leaving him standing naked in it with soap covering his eyes, daring him to open them and get burned.

“H-hello?” He asked, blindly searching for the knobs to turn the shower back on so that he could wash the soap away.

“Hello, gorgeous. I didn’t know Orion had found himself a new twink. You must be really obedient to have caught his interest, especially with that skeleton of a body.”

What? Twink?

“I-I’m not a twink. I-I don’t even know what that is.” Zachary replied, worry slipping into his normally-calm voice.

“Really? You’re showering in his personal room, using his stuff, and you don’t think he’s your master?”

My what!

“No!” Zach shouted back in response, only to get shoved back against the tile wall.

“Yeah right. He obviously hasn’t begun training you yet, so I’ll give you a little sneak peak of what you’re in for.”

There was a sadistic sound to the man’s voice as he kept Zachary pinned against the wall with one arm and wrapped his wrists with his free hand. Once those were bound above his head, the man went for his ankles. Zachary tried his best to kick him, but without being able to see him, he couldn’t land any of the hits.

“Excuse me, Brendon. What the hell are you doing?”

The temperature in the room seemed to drop several degrees in the few seconds it took Orion to ask his question. The other man, Brendon, tried to stutter out a coherent response, but when he failed for the third time Orion took over, yanking him away judging from how fast his arm disappeared from Zachary’s back.

“Get out, now. And if I find you bothering him again, you will not be welcome at this club again.”

The sound of someone running met his ears, then silence. His stomach twisted, worry and nerves warring with something he didn’t understand as a gentle hand settled atop his shoulder. “I’ve got you, Zachary. It’s okay. Just give me a minute and I’ll have you free.”

Nodding rigidly, Zachary held as still as he could as he felt Orion lean over him and work on the leather. When he got the clasps undone Zachary quickly rubbed at his eyes, trying to blink them open even through the burning the shampoo was causing. He was getting frantic, needing to see.

“Hey, hey. Calm down, It’s okay.”

When he didn’t listen, and instead started panicking further, Orion carefully reached around and pressed his hand gently over Zachary’s eyes. The sudden action had Zachary freezing, his breath hitched in his throat. Orion very slowly added pressure to make Zachary lean back until his head and back rested against his chest.

“Shh. It’s okay. No one’s going to hurt you. Brendon is an ass, but he wouldn’t have gone much further and if he dared, I would have likely lost my job by putting him in the hospital.”

That had Zachary slowly calming his breathing. Orion noticed and leaned down, pressing his lips to the top of his hair.

“I do not put up with anyone trying to take advantage of another. There is either consent, or there isn’t. Black and white.”

Zachary gave a jerky nod and sighed out a shaky breath.

“I’m proud of you for calming down so quickly. Just keep taking deep, slow breaths and I’ll get your ankles free, okay?”

Orion waited until Zach answered before moving his hand and kneeling behind him. He was adept with the buckles and had them undone in seconds. “There we go. I’m going to get the water on so that you can wash that soap off, okay?”

He gave another stressed nod before the water was turned on. It was luke-warm and hit him from the waist down, but try as he might, he just couldn’t force himself to turn around. All Zach wanted to do was huddle against the wall and try to regain his composure. Sure he’d caught his breath, but his mind was still going a mile a minute.

“Zachary?”

Orion’s familiar strong hand settled on his shoulder, very gently guiding him to turn until he was facing the water. He didn’t dare open his eyes, but after a quiet moment he was carefully moved into the spray and Orion sifted his fingers through it, removing the soap before his deft fingers rubbed softly at his eyes. When their comforting pressure finally disappeared Zachary chanced opening them.

He had to blink several times to clear his vision, but as soon as Orion’s worried face appeared from the cloud of blurry figures, Zach couldn’t help but step forward and press himself to the man’s solid chest.

(Lalala goes to take a fish back to the store)

Pastabilities

It was a relief to actually not be held by Orion. Zachary wasn’t afraid of him, but at that moment he didn’t want anyone touching him, even though he had his palms pressed against the man’s chest along with his forehead. He took about two minutes to steady himself, then leaned back with one final, relaxing sigh. His eyes rose to meet Orion’s once he was completely calm, a small, embarrassed smile on his face. “Thank you, Orion.”

The man mirrored his smile with one of his own, though embarrassment was nowhere to be seen on his face. What could be read with just the short amount of time Zach managed to keep his eyes from lowering was a look of pride and possibly a bit of intrigue.

I don’t know why anything about me would be intriguing.

“You are welcome, Zachary. I got your clothing while the chef cooked your meal and put them in one of the washers.”

When Zach felt his face drain of color Orion chuckled, raising a hand to cover some of his own mouth, as if the gesture was a little embarrassing.

“It is alright. I took the money out, it’s on the nightstand. Come.” He said, guiding Zachary out of the room. Relief flooded his system when he saw his meager change sitting on the nightstand right where Orion said it would be.

“Here ya go, these should fit until your clothing is dry.”

Before he could reply Zachary had to jerk his hands up to catch the pair of shorts being tossed to him. His eyes widened when he held them up, noticing that there wasn’t a single hole and the colors weren’t faded or stained.

Wow.

He couldn’t help but grin as he tugged them on. Compared to his one pair of pants, they looked brand new! A shirt swiftly followed, not giving him any time to dwell on the shorts before he had to catch the other article of clothing. When he tried to get it over his head he paused, because Orion had walked over and was now tugging at the drawstrings Zach had missed. Orion’s fingers deftly got a nice knot tied, making the shorts fit much better on his narrow hips.

“There,” he said, smirking up at Zachary. “Not that I would mind them falling, but I believe clothing should only be removed when someone wants sexual attention or is going to sleep.”

Zach’s face immediately lit up, eyes widening and mouth gaping. He could tell that Orion wanted to say something in response, or do something, but the man instead cleared his throat and stood, licking his lips before turning to walk over to a nightstand. Zachary followed him once Orion had sat down, joining him a moment later only to have a huge plate of food set in his lap. Broccoli was the dominant item on the plate, but there was also a lot of pasta, Parmesan cheese, and a bunch of chicken.

“It’s Alfredo, but I told the cook to only use a little sauce because it can be hard on your stomach if you’re not used to it.”

He didn’t care if there was or wasn’t sauce. Heck, the food itself was a blessing. Even if they had just given him back his broccoli he would have been ecstatic and thanked them to no end. Staring down at the food, he let his nose take in the delicious smell and had to bite back a moan.

This is too much… but it’s already made. Asking him to take it back would be rude and a waste.

After a moment of silent thought Zachary set the food aside on the blanket and got up, taking one step toward the nightstand and grabbing four crumpled-up ones from his meager savings. When he sat back down and offered Orion the money, he could see the conflict in the man’s eyes. What he decided to do was actually surprising though. He took on the money, but handed him back two dollars.

“We’re a restaurant as well as a club so we can get ingredients cheaper than most. It only took about two dollars to make that, so you take these two back.”

It was a relief. Not just to have the two dollars back, but because of the fact that Orion didn’t pity him and make him take back all of the money. It was a respectful tradeoff, even though he could tell that it upset the other man a little bit.

“Thank you,” Zachary said as he set the remaining money back on the nightstand and sat back down. This time he grabbed the plate of food and folded his legs up on the bed, getting comfortable right as he began to dig in. It was absolutely delicious, even without a lot of sauce, the chef hadn’t spared any spices, giving the pasta a slight kick that was perfectly sated by the small amount of sauce he did put on it.

“This is dericious,” Zach said around a mouthful of chicken and noodles. He looked up at Orion to speak, but when the man frowned in response, he fidgeted, confused. When Orion forced a smile and said “I’m glad,” Zachary tried to shrug off the upset he’d seen on the man’s face and continue eating. He got through another two bites before worry began to make the food settle like rocks in his stomach.

“Orion?” He tried, looking back up at the man.

“Yes, Zachary?”

“Um, a-are you mad? Did I do something wrong?”

Orion seemed surprised at first, but then he almost looked nervous before answering.

“It’s alright, you’re hungry and I have a stupid pet peeve. It’s nothing to worry about.”

Even though he said that, it was definitely something that was making Zachary worry! He didn’t like the way Orion had looked at him but he couldn’t remember having done anyth––wait a minute.

“I-I chewed with my mouth open!” He said, excited that he figured it out… or at least that’s what he thought it was. The slight grin on Orion’s face told him that he was right. That, in turn, allowed him to begin relaxing. “I am sorry about that. I was taught better.” Even if his parents didn’t want him anymore, what was considered respectful while eating hadn’t changed. Orion let out a quiet breath through his nose and reached over, gently sifting his fingers through Zachary’s hair for a moment to reassure him. “It’s quite alright.”

“I won’t do it again,” Zach said as he gently leaned into the attention.

“I would appreciate that, Zachary.”

When Orion moved his hand Zach felt a faint loss but he quickly began eating again, not wanting to dwell on it. He ate for another ten minutes before Orion stood, immediately garnering his attention.

“I’ve got to head back upstairs. I’ve got the only key for this room besides my boss, so I’ll lock it on my way out. If you would like to sleep, go ahead. Also, if you feel the need to leave, feel free to go back out the way I brought you in. Neither of those doors are locked from the inside, but once you step out, the outer one will lock.”

“Okay. Thank you very much.”

Orion nodded, then ducked out of the room. The sound of a lock clicking into place settled the nerves Zachary had felt when he said he was leaving, making him worry about Brendon returning.

He can’t come back if he doesn’t have Orion’s key.

Nodding to himself, he picked at his food for another few minutes, managing to eat half of it before feeling too full to continue. He didn’t want to waste it though… Looking around the large room, he spotted a closed closet, two nightstands, and Aha. Sliding from the big bed, Zachary walked around it to the other side, then knelt and opened the small fridge. It had a few simple snacks in it like cheese and chocolate, but the rest of it was just beer cans.

Alcohol.

Just seeing the cans made his stomach hurt. Alcohol had been a big factor in his father’s cheating. It always happened after he’d drunk a good amount. He probably thought that he was invincible, that even if he got caught it wouldn’t change anything.

He was right.

A stray tear dripped onto the soft carpet beneath Zachary’s knee, catching him off-guard.

No crying. You’re free of him now. You’re in control of your life, no matter how hard it is to live sometimes.

It may have sounded bad, but to him, it was the truth and it was liberating. Taking a deep breath, Zachary blew it out slowly and got himself under control. He considered taking the plate of food with him, but he didn’t own the plate so he just slid it atop the cans of beer and shut the door. After walking back around and retrieving his money, sliding it into his pocket, he looked out over the large expanse of the king sized bed. He was tired from his long, awkward day. Add a fully belly to that and he really didn’t want to leave. The bed had felt so soft when he’d sat on it. He could just imagine how soft it would be to sleep in. All he had to do was fall forward.

No.

The reminder of the alcohol in the fridge was more than enough to solidify his decision.

“I’ll come back in a few days to return his clothing and get mine back.”

The idea hurt for some reason, but he didn’t try to fight it. Forcing himself to walk away from the bed, he slowly pushed open the door to the storeroom area, then back outside. The rain had died down to a drizzle, making the walk back to his alley nice… until he realized he’d forgotten his shoes!

Zachary had just turned to walk back to the club when he realized that the door would be locked.

Oh man. I can’t walk into the club barefoot… or at all!

He thought about going and asking George to get them back, but just couldn’t dwell up the courage to do it.

Maybe tomorrow. He told himself as he turned back around and tried finish his walk with a little less motivation in his step. If he had no shoes, he couldn’t go inside places to apply for jobs, or go into the grocery store…

Darn it. No! Go get them!

Knowing that he couldn’t get food or come close to a new job without the worn sneakers, he forced himself to turn back around. Just walk up to George and ask. Surely he’ll have some time once the rush dies down.

With that thought he made himself walk the block back to the club. It was surprisingly busy considering the rainy weather, with people bustling in and out. He wasn’t sure if there were more drunk people going in then coming out, but quite honestly, he didn’t care. All he wanted was to get his shoes and go home to his alley to rest. He stood a few feet away until several patrons began to stare, drawing George’s attention.

“Hello, Zachary.” He said, his normal cool voice in place. It was a relief that he wasn’t showing any indication of having found him in the rain earlier.

“Um, h-hi George.”

Biting his lip to try and force some extra courage, Zach looked down at his bare feet, then back up at George. “I-I left my shoes…”

George’s gaze lowered, then rose before he gave a slight nod.

“Go in and get them, kid. Then come right back out, got it?”

Zachary knew he could lose his job for letting him inside, so he knew darn well not to linger.

“Yes sir. I just need my shoes.”

George nodded and gestured for him to go inside. Zach did, though he was terrified the second he stepped past the door. The place was huge, with three levels he could easily see from where he stood. The second and third floor were open, with walkways running around the open area leading to different doors he could barely see at his angle. On the main floor people danced, talked, ate, drank, and music swallowed every other sound.

Just get your shoes. Just get your shoes.

It was easy to tell himself that, but a whole other thing to actually do it. He had no idea where the room he’d been in was, and if his memory was correct, Orion would be upstairs… with the only key to the room besides his boss.

No. No no no.

His heart raced and he took a hesitant step forward, then got shoved to the side by a drunk patron walking in. There was no apology, or even recognition before the man disappeared into the churning crowd of bodies in the middle of the floor. After two more shoves in seconds, Zachary resigned himself to skirting along the wall. He made it all the way to the bar without another person running into him, but he felt eyes on him the whole way. He didn’t risk looking around to try and find who was actually looking at him, figuring it was better that he didn’t know. Instead, he looked up at the bartender.

Ah, well. At least I know one person who’s been watching me.

“I don’t know how you got past George, but you need to turn around and walk right back out of here, kid. This place is twenty-one and up and I can tell that you’re definitely not twenty-one.”

Hmph. I will be in a few months!

He understood though. Without eating regularly he looked like a teenager, but that wasn’t important right then. “Sir, I don’t want to be here either, but I left my shoes in Orion’s room and I need them back.”

The young blond male behind the bar gave him a look, then shook his head. “Okay, I don’t know how you learned his real name because he sure as hell doesn’t use it here. Look, just, dammit. Sit down and don’t move, got it, kid?” He said as he pointed to a bar-stool that was currently vacant.

Zachary nodded immediately and did as told, climbing up into the seat. He watched the man as he pulled out his cell phone and dialed, then held it up to his ear. The entire time he did that, and spoke to the person on the other end, he watched Zach like a hawk. With the music so loud he couldn’t hear anything the guy was saying, but as long as he got his shoes, he didn’t care.

The man slid his phone back into his pocket a minute later, then filled two drink orders before walking over to him. “My boss is busy but she’s going to get Orion to help you.”

Zach nodded, unsure why he suddenly felt odd. Well, he knew why his head was pounding and his stomach hurt, that was from the ridiculously loud music and people staring at him, but he also felt a little nervous. It seemed like almost an hour passed as he waited there, but it couldn’t have been more than five minutes before he felt a gentle hand on his shoulder. Turning to see Orion standing beside him was a relief, but then he noticed what the man was wearing and stared, confused.

The look made Orion grin and grasp his hand, tugging him from the stool and through a small crowd. Everyone seemed to migrate out of the large man’s way, knowing better than to block him from where he wanted to go. A few of the people gave them knowing looks while others almost seemed envious.

Of what? I’m nothing to be jealous over.

He quickly shook his head as Orion pushed him through a small door and into a dimly-lit hall.

Of course you’re worth being jealous over. You’re smart and have held several jobs, some even at the same time even though you have no home.

Zach could tell that his odd gesture had caught Orion’s attention, but the man kept it to himself as he fished a key from his leather pants and unlocked the door they now stood in front of. The familiar room from before was laid out in front of them. He thought they might go straight to the other room so that he could get his shoes and leave, but when Orion gently turned him so that they were facing each other, Zachary knew he had other intentions.

“Zachary, my boss told me that you needed to see me, but you had walked through the front door?”

Zach nodded, unable to raise his eyes from his bare, damp feet. Orion must have followed his gaze, because he walked away and the sound of the other door opening met his ears. That had Zachary looking up just in time to see the man disappear into the dark room. He took two steps toward the door before hesitating. The fridge full of alcohol caught his eye. He knew he had no reason to accuse Orion of anything just because he liked to drink though. It would just take some time getting used to the cans being there.

Used to? You aren’t staying so it doesn’t matter what he has in his fridge.

Orion returned a moment later with his shoes in his hand. They looked terrible in comparison to his, but Zachary took them with an appreciative “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. I’m glad you came back for them. I don’t like the idea of you walking around barefoot outside.”

His words caught Zachary a little off-guard for a moment, but then he realized it was likely only the man’s caring personality that had him saying that.

“Zachary?”

Orion’s whispered words made him jump, suddenly aware that he’d actually been dozing off standing up!

“I-I’m okay. Just tired.” He stuttered out, making his way around the man to head for the door. “I’m gonna go.”

He stepped through the first door and into the dim storeroom, heart jumping awkwardly in his chest at the thought of leaving. His feet took him right to the door that lead him outside, but when he reached up toward the handle, a firm hand settled atop his the moment he set it down on the knob. Zachary’s breath caught and held as Orion’s fingers gently rubbed his for a moment, then moved away. Curiosity made him turn, but his eyes, once again, couldn’t meet Orion’s. Instead they settled on the shiny black leather that was fastened over the man’s muscled chest in smooth, taught lines. He hadn’t been wearing it earlier, but somehow, it didn’t look bad on him. Hell, it looked like it was made for him, as odd as that sounded.

He didn’t know that he was staring until Orion’s hands took hold of his and slowly lifted them until his palms were pressed against the black leather. Without any coaxing Zachary began to feel along their lengths, intrigued by how tight they were against Orion’s skin but also how they felt when he slid his fingers beneath the long bands, trapping them between the strong leather and Orion’s toned muscles.

His head slowly began to bow unknowingly, but the gesture was caught by Orion, who placed his hand softly against Zachary’s lower back. The light pressure made him snap back to attention, but when he met Orion’s eyes the older man was smiling knowingly.

“Come to bed, Zachary. I need to get back to work but I’d like for you to get some rest.”

The thought to argue came to him, but just ask quickly it was washed away with the need to sleep and the chance to do so in a real bed again. Just thinking about it had him teetering on his feet. He felt strong hands steadying him, then, surprisingly, lifting him. Zachary didn’t mumble a single word as he snuggled into Orion’s strong arms, already beginning to doze off. He felt himself being carried but he was already so out of it that it felt almost like he was drifting. When he was set down atop the soft blankets he was nearly gone right then. The very last thing he could remember before his consciousness completely disappeared was the feeling of Orion’s fingers gently moving along his neck as he tugged something into place, almost like he was fastening a large necklace, or possibly even a collar.

Understanding

“Welcome back, Master. Is everything alright?”

Smiling, Orion stepped into the room and calmly strode over to the group relaxing on a sofa to his left. Some of them were wearing leather similar to his own outfit, but some went further, while others had normal clothing on.

“Yes, Ariana. I just had to take care of something.” He said as he got behind the mini bar and filled the orders he’d left. Most of the rooms on the second floor were devoted to slightly more physical partiers. They paid extra for his attention, but that was all he was willing to give. Everyone knew, whether they got the information straight from his mouth, or more likely, the gossips, that he didn’t show physical affections to anyone but his sub. Unfortunately, everyone also knew that he didn’t have one right then, so his room was far more full than before he’d let his last one go.

Jake had been sweet… and manipulative. He’d used Orion’s popularity to increase his own, then cheated behind his back.

Hmph. Cheating with a dominant doesn’t work. I remember the marks I make on my subs, and the ones I don’t.

His heart shoved aside that memory and gave a hard jerk at the new image burned into his brain from just twenty minutes ago as it came to his mind.

Zachary…

He’d looked so vulnerable and tired lying in his bed. Even though he was too skinny and honestly clueless, Orion just couldn’t help himself when he remembered he had put his collar in the nightstand drawer for safe keeping.

Damn. He doesn’t even know what it means and I still did it. While he was asleep, no less!

“Mm, Master. Is that dreamy look for me?”

No, it’s for my Za— darn it. He’s not yours, Orion.

Forcing himself not to shake his head, Orion gave the woman a dazzling smile and winked. “Secret, love.”

He walked around the side of the bar to deliver their drinks when the woman leaned forward as he leaned over to set the tray down on the glass coffee table near them. “I wouldn’t mind being your secret.”

Forcing another smile, Orion sat down, allowing the woman to slide into his lap as her friends scooted closer. He enjoyed their conversation and did his best to be a good host, but at the same time he kept his hands to himself. When that group left another quickly replaced them. Being males, the new group was a little easier to relax with, but at the same time he had to be on his guard. They were much more brazen than the women and by the time they finally left around three, Orion was exhausted.

He punched out, and after checking on George at the front, he retired to his personal room. It was a relief to finally shut and lock his door, but seeing Zachary still asleep, tucked beneath his comforter, was amazing. He walked over after silently taking off his shoes, Orion slid onto the side of the bed beside Zachary, then carefully reached over to stroke his soft hair.

I’m glad you stayed.

Grinning to himself, Orion ran his thumb over Zachary’s cheek bone slowly, then moved it down to his pale lips.

Some good rest and a lot more food and you’ll be as good as new.

Zachary awoke to the calming sound of water raining down in the bathroom. The door was cracked, a small streak of light piercing through the dim room. He remained with his head against the pillow until the water was shut off. He had a feeling it was Orion, since he said he was the only person besides his boss that had a key, but Zachary was still uneasy. Once he saw the man he’d be able to go back to sleep…

That wasn’t the case, because when he saw Orion, the man wasn’t wearing a towel like he thought he might be. Sure he had one, but it was busy drying his hair, not hiding anything it normally would. Zach’s mouth felt drier than the desert as he stared, eventually getting Orion’s attention as the man’s hands slowly came to a stop in his hair. He gave a proud smile and Zachary felt his face light up with heat.

“Good morning, Zachary.”

Blinking, Zach finally managed to look down. Well, further down, until he saw his hands folded in his lap. “M-morning,” he mumbled awkwardly. When his neck bent, he felt something against it that he wasn’t used to. Reaching up, his fingers brushed over something smooth that looped all the way around his neck.

Wait… so that wasn’t a dream?

“I apologize for that, Zachary,” Orion said, drawing Zach’s attention back to him. Thankfully, the larger man now had on a pair of boxers. They didn’t exactly hide much, but at least fabric was over the obvious parts. Ignoring that, he returned his attention to the collar around his neck, fingering it curiously.

“Why did you put this on me?”

The look Orion gave him was one of worry, but also possibly excitement? When he sat down next to him, Zachary shifted a bit more so that he was leaning against the pillows and headboard.

“I apologize, again, for putting that on you. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision and one I shouldn’t have done without your approval.”

Zachary agreed that it was a bit odd to just have a collar put on him, but it wasn’t tight so he wasn’t going to freak out about it yet. Although, it did bother him a little bit.

“Can you take it off please?”

Orion’s hesitant smile immediately went away, making Zachary fidget. He didn’t like seeing the man upset, but he barely knew him, and collars usually meant that someone was claiming ownership of something. It was just way too fast.

“Of course.”

Reaching over, Orion carefully tugged on the collar until the clasp was in the front, then got it undone. When it was removed from his neck Zachary hesitantly took hold of the end, pulling it just enough so that it straightened-out between him and the side Orion still held.

There’s just an M on it…

“It stands for Master. Basically, no one here would bother you if you had it on. I guess that’s one reason why I put it on you when you fell asleep.”

Eying the item, Zachary thought for a quiet moment before glancing up at Orion. “You said they call you Master here.”

Orion nodded. “Yes, they do.”

Chewing his lower lip, Zachary nodded as well, thinking for another long minute before finally putting the pieces together. “When you put it on, did you want me to belong to you?”

That actually seemed to catch the older man off-guard. He opened his mouth to answer, then closed it. After doing that another three times he finally managed to find the words he wanted to say. “I’m not sure. We don’t know each other yet, but I do know that I want to get to know you.”

“I see,” Zach whispered before he met Orion’s eyes again. “Please don’t do something like that again unless you are sure of it.”

He knew it was a bit rude to say it so bluntly, but he didn’t want to consider becoming anything to anyone who wasn’t absolutely serious about wanting him in their life first. It was a side-effect from his parents kicking him out that he could never get over. He thought it might make Orion annoyed or frustrated, but the man actually looked understanding.

“You’re smart beyond your years, Zachary. I agree completely. I will be sure to think through my actions next time.”

Without much more to say and the need to sleep more weighing on his mind, Zach nodded to Orion and began to settle back beneath the blankets. He figured Orion would climb into the other side of the huge bed, but instead, the man remained beside him silently for several long but relaxing minutes. When he finally did something, it was just a slight turn toward Zachary as he whispered a question.

“I… I’m not used to asking.”

He paused for a moment, then continued after licking his lips once.

“Would you like to come with me later today for some shopping? I’d like to pick up some things, but I’m used to having someone with me to… well, spoil. I-I know you don’t want someone to pity you, and I swear I’m secretly keeping it deep down so I don’t upset you, but I really do enjoy buying someone I’m interested in things.”

Seeing the man stuttering was a shock. Zach had almost been asleep but by the time Orion had finished speaking he was definitely awake. Not wanting to answer while still laying down, he pushed himself up, stopping when their faces were only inches away from each other.

“Um… I don’t mind coming with you, but I don’t need anything.”

Orion gave him a look, but covered it up by chuckling and sticking his tongue out.

“Alright. How about we settle on a deal. You let me by you things, and whatever you don’t feel you need, you can donate. I do have one condition though.”

That seems reasonable, but the condition…

“What is your condition?”

He grinned, making Zachary glance away for a moment, nervous.

“At each store we go to, I get to pick one thing that you have to accept. Whether it be an outfit or a type of food.”

“Oh. I suppose that’s okay.” Zachary said with a small grin. He was excited all of a sudden, eager to get to go places and hang out with his new friend.

Wait a minute.

“Hey Orion?”

He was about to get up when Zach spoke, but sat back down to listen.

“Are we friends?”

Orion cracked a smile and lifted the blanket. Zach scooted over, a bit surprised when the older man slid in next to him, but the moment he extended a hand to him, Zachary couldn’t keep himself from crawling into the man’s waiting arms. When Orion’s chest vibrated with a deep chuckle against Zach’s right cheek, he knew what the other man was going to say before he said it.

“I think this sums up what we are right now.”

If it did, then Zachary was confused. He couldn’t figure out where they stood in terms of relationship. He’d just met the man yesterday, considering it was already the next morning, all-be-it early, and yet he was perfectly comfortable getting ready to fall asleep in his arms.

For a second time. He reminded himself.

Instead of bothering with what the confusion of what they were or weren’t, he snuggled in a bit closer, getting a gentle hug in response before he slipped into a deep, comfortable sleep.

Waffles

Waking up to the smell of bacon was something completely unfamiliar to Zachary. Well, not exactly unfamiliar because there were a few restaurants close to his alley, but as he sat up and saw the plates set on the nightstand beside him, he knew that he would actually be able to eat what smelled so good. Before assuming and just reaching for one of the mouthwatering plates, Zachary looked around the room. He was a bit confused when he didn’t see Orion anywhere.

“Orion?”

Surely he had left the food, but then why did he bring two plates if he wasn’t going to eat as well? He waited for a few moments before the sound of the closet door opening caught his ears and he turned to see Orion stepping out. Their eyes met immediately and they smiled, but then Zach couldn’t help but look at the man’s new wardrobe. Gone were his fitted leather pants, replaced with a nice pair of stylish black jeans and a light grey sweater. Both articles hugged his body like a glove, and he’d be lying if he said he wasn’t a tad bit jealous for some reason.

“I brought breakfast, go ahead and pick whichever plate you’d like.”

Zachary nodded, returning his attention to the plates as his stomach grumbled loudly. Now that he was actually focusing on them, he realized they were actually really different. One had sausage links, bacon, scrambled eggs, two small waffles, and toast with butter and jelly. Odd. The other one had pancakes, sausage patties, bacon, and the same toast with the odd combination of butter and grape jelly. He’d never had toast that way, but that wasn’t an issue. He’d eat it even if it tasted funny. However, he didn’t want to be the one to choose. It didn’t feel right when Orion had made the food and likely paid for it.

Orion sat down beside him on the bed and gently rustled his hair before reaching for the two plates, handing him the one with eggs and waffles on it. “Thank you for asking. I hope you enjoy the meal.”

Zach thanked Orion for cooking and in general, for the food, before beginning to dig into his breakfast. Heck, his first breakfast in at least three months. It was heaven right from the beginning, but when Orion produced a small container of syrup and offered it, he would have done something for the guy he’d never consider normally if he didn’t have a plate of food in his lap.

Bad thoughts. No!

He nodded, swallowing his mouthful of food as he watched Orion drown his waffles in syrup. Not a millisecond later and Zach was murdering his waffles and laughing maniacally in his head as he consumed ever single morsel.

“Pardon me for this,” Orion said, making Zachary look up as he finished chewing his last bite of waffle. When the man’s tongue pressed against his chin and began to inch its way up toward his mouth, Zach froze. He didn’t move a hair until Orion’s tongue tucked back into his mouth right before it was going to meet his lips, though he didn’t pull away until he finished mumbling, “Best to lick off the sticky stuff before it dries.”

The joke went right over his head, and thankfully Orion let it, likely to be sure he didn’t spoil Zachary’s appetite with embarrassment. They both finished their food in silence after that. Zach was surprised that he could actually eat everything on his plate, and was even more surprised when he really liked the flavor of the toast.

“Alright, ready to head out?” Orion asked. Zachary nodded, but then paused and slid out of bed to run to the bathroom. He shut the door most of the way, then relieved himself with a sigh. Once that was done he opened the door, but then paused as a toothbrush caught his eye.

“Orion? Do you have an extra toothbrush?”

Orion walked over and dug through a few drawers before pulling out a sealed red toothbrush and handing it over. “Yup.”

“Thank you,” Zach said as he took the toothbrush and quickly stripped the wrapper away and got down to brushing. While he worked on scrubbing his teeth for the first time in a month, he couldn’t help but watch Orion move behind him in the mirror. He wanted to ask what he was doing, but the man soon showed him as he reached around Zachary and grabbed a bottle, then flicked the lid to it open and squirted some of its contents in his left hand. After he replaced the bottle on the counter he got busy rubbing his hands together, then started working the minty-smelling stuff into Zach’s hair.

He really likes mint.

He’d never styled his hair before, not even when he had a home and allowance. Orion finished right as he leaned down to rinse his mouth, leaving Zachary’s breath minty fresh, as well as his mussy-yet-styled hair. When he turned to look up at Orion and question why he’d styled his hair, the guy just smirked and stuck his tongue out, then grabbed his hand and tugged him back to the bed before pointing down.

“Get those back on. I took them off when you fell asleep last night but you need them to go into the stores.”

Zach quickly did as told, pulling on his shoes, then tying them before straightening. He was glad that Orion had untied the laces instead of just pulling the shoes off. It was greatly appreciated, though he felt the man already knew that since he remembered from yesterday. They headed out after that, Orion leading him out of the alleyway and to the sidewalk. When Orion stopped in front of a nice black car and hit a key fob, the car unlocked and Zachary stepped forward to open the passenger’s side door. Except, Orion was there before he could even reach out, opening the door for him. It was a bit odd, but he just thanked the man before carefully sliding into the spotless car.

As Orion walked around to enter the driver’s side, Zach got his seatbelt fastened and waited patiently. Soon they were off, though the drive wasn’t too far away. After about eight blocks Orion got the car parked and slid out. Zachary reached for the door handle, but when he noticed the other man walking around to his side, he put his hand back in his lap and waited. Sure enough, Orion opened the door for him, then offered him a hand to get out.

Zachary grinned to himself and began to get up, only to realize that the seatbelt was still fastened.

“Oh, oops.”

Orion chuckled and reached over before Zach could do so, undoing his seatbelt and helping him out. “No problem. Let’s go have some fun.”

Fun. That was a word Zachary wasn’t used to hearing. At least not when directed to him. “Y-yes, that sounds good.”

He had been so focused on just walking without tripping over his broken shoes that Zachary didn’t notice where they were going until Orion held the door open for him and they stepped inside.

A thrift store.

He didn’t expect it, but it made him feel so much better, and also a little cheated. The clothing wouldn’t cost much at all, but he couldn’t exactly donate it because they were literally buying it from the place you would donate it to! He cut a glare to Orion but the man was already busy stalking toward the junior’s section.

Hmph. I’ll get my revenge!

Until then… Zachary ran after him, stumbling a few times as he tripped in his shoes. Orion caught his last near-fall and immediately changed direction to the shoe area. When he finally caught up Orion already had two pairs of nearly-new tennis shoes pulled down, waiting for Zachary to try them on. He did just that after getting his own shoes untied. The first pair were black Nikes. He liked the way they looked, but they were a bit too tight. It would have been useless to buy them since he was likely going to grow just from the insane amount of dinner and breakfast he’d already eaten. The next pair, while so bright red that they almost seemed pink, actually fit really well and had some room to grow into.

“I really like these,” Orion mumbled as he suddenly appeared kneeling down in front of Zachary. His sure fingers felt the tips of the shoes. “Wiggle your toes, Zachary.”

He did as told, feeling his big toes tap against Orion’s fingers. “Perfect. I think they’re keepers, you like them?” He asked, making Zach nod immediately.

“Great. Keep them on, we’ll pay for everything once we’re done.”

He felt odd wearing something he hadn’t bought yet, but when Orion got up, taking his old shoes with him, Zach quickly hopped up and followed. The new shoes felt amazing on his feet, but not being used to real shoes, he found himself stumbling and over-striding more than a few times. It was a relief when they finally made it to the clothing rack of jeans. The idea of actually looking through all of the clothing made his head spin, so he guessed it was good that Orion seemed to know exactly what he was looking for.

Zachary waited and watched, holding whatever was passed to him before they moved on to the shirts, then shorts. By the time they were standing in the dressing room Orion had to help Zach remove the mountain of clothing from his arms so that he could actually begin trying things on. The woman helping with the dressing rooms eyed them when they asked for a room and Orion went in with him, but she kept her mouth shut about it. It was a relief, because he was honestly embarrassed when Orion got all of the stuff hung up on different hooks, then turned to him expectantly.

It’s okay. We’re both guys and we’ve already seen each other naked…

Pursing his lips nervously, Zachary quickly tugged off his shirt, then undid the knot on his shorts to allow them to drop to the floor.

“Here, put these on,” Orion said, offering him a pair of boxers from a pack he’d taken from a rack. They had been sealed, so Zach didn’t hesitate to tug them on. They made him feel much better about being in the dressing room with Orion, too, allowing him to begin to go through the clothing. He did the shorts first, since those were the easiest to determined whether they fit or not. Once he was finished with them, he moved onto the shirts. Most of them were too big, but Orion refused to hear that excuse as he kept telling him that he’ll easily grow into them.

Zachary couldn’t even find a reason to argue once Orion made his decision, so he finished trying on the remaining shirts, then stared at the pants when he had finally pulled the shirt he’d borrowed from Orion back on.

“Time for the pants.” Orion said with a snicker. Zachary rolled his eyes but began tugging them on and off. Most were jeans, which he preferred for their durability. When he got about three pairs in Orion suddenly grabbed the top hem and slid his thumbs inside.

“I love these and they seem to fit perfectly. Lift your shirt and turn, please?”

Zachary glanced up, getting another “Please?” before doing as told. It took all of his focus to not move when Orion’s fingers skimmed his skin. He had to be doing it slowly on purpose because it didn’t take two minutes to check jeans! In fact…

“You’re doing that on purpose.”

Orion’s fingers paused and he glanced up, having knelt to check the jeans. Without an ounce of hesitation he smirked and winked. “One hundred percent. Though I did check the jeans, and they fit like a glove and look great.”

“R-really?”

Sure he was a bit embarrassed to have Orion touching him, but did he really think the jeans looked good on him? He hadn’t had anything look good on him in forever… and even when he did, his parents and friends had barely noted it. Hearing it from Orion actually made him feel good. Great, even. 

“Yes, definitely. They look really good.”

The praise warmed Zach’s heart, making him blink a few times to keep tears from his eyes. He had no doubt that the older man noticed, but thankfully Orion ignored it and instead got another pair of pants from a hanger and held them up. Zachary took the hint and shimmied out of his definite pair of new jeans, but when he reached up to take the other jeans, Orion turned them around, getting a blush from Zachary.

“There’s slashes all over them…” Especially on the butt, though they at least looked stylish. There was no way he could see himself wearing them! He was about to toss them aside, since they were useless in any practical situation, but when Orion raised his brows suggestively, Zachary knew that he was going to have to try them on.

At least I’ve got boxers on.

Reminding himself of that, he took the pants and carefully pulled them on. Or at least up to his knees. They were tight, obviously not fitting. Zach was about to take them off, relieved, but then Orion’s hands were on the jeans and tugging them up a few careful jerks at a time. Because the pants were so tight, when Orion finally got them fitted around his hips, Zachary’s boxers had ridden up to the point where his bare backside was the only thing visible in the slashes on the back of the pants. He knew it and felt uncomfortable immediately, wanting to take the pants off. The only thing that stopped him was the look on Orion’s face as the man looked in the mirror over Zach’s shoulder, obviously staring.

“O-Orion?”

Zachary made sure to whisper, not wanting anyone standing outside of the tiny dressing room to hear him. Orion looked like he was struggling with himself, a faint sheen of sweat forming on his brow before it was quickly swiped away by a shaky hand. When he managed to get ahold of himself he slowly leaned over and tugged Zachary into an awkward hug, burying his nose in his neck.

“Please.” Orion whispered, the vibrations the word caused against his skin making Zachary shiver.

“Please just say Mas— Orion, you can touch, just a little.”

The sheer need in his voice stunned Zach. He swallowed and shakily raised his hands up to place one on each of Orion’s shoulders.

“Y-you want to touch me?”

It was a foreign thought to him, just like when Orion had told him the previous pair of pants had looked good on him. There was no hesitation with the man’s answer, though, just like before. “Desperately.”

That’s all he’d needed to hear. If someone could take him in, feed him, and overlook the fact that he looked like someone who had lived on the streets for years, which he had, then the least he could do was trust him. The only thing Orion had ever done that was a tiny bit odd was putting the collar on him, but he took it right off when Zachary had asked him to, so he couldn’t think of a reason to decline him such a simple request.

“Okay… y-you can.”

He didn’t expect him to say anything else, as he had been given the ‘okay’, but while he did feel Orion’s hand begin to slowly descend down his back, the man also spoke. “How much? I need specifics, Zachary.”

Not really able to think, Zach muttered “A-a little?”

Orion chuckled and nodded, then rested his chin on Zachary’s shoulder as his left hand finally lowered to rest overtop the cut fabric. While he was barely adding any pressure, Zach felt himself stiffen slightly, not used to having anyone touch him in such a personal area. Or at all, really. There was a very light tap before Orion moved his hand, surprising Zachary with how fast he ended the contact. When Orion leaned back, Zach didn’t hesitate to meet his eyes this time, curious.

“Thank you, Zachary. Those pants look amazing on you and I’m really happy that you let me touch.” 

Blushing, Zach nodded, then let Orion help him out of the tight pants before returning to trying on the others. He got through about three pairs when Orion spoke again. “If something happens like that again, I want you to choose a word that lets me know that you don’t want the attention to continue. No is too common a word, so pick something random you know will catch my attention right away, okay?”

It was an odd request, but he supposed it made sense. Zachary spent the next few minutes trying on pants and thinking, then, finally, pulled his borrowed shorts back on and turned on Orion.

“Waffles.”

(It’s 1 AM… forces self away from laptop)

A Long Road

They had been in the thrift store for nearly an hour and a half before finally walking out into the chilly, muggy air. Thankfully Orion had thought ahead, or watched the weather channel within the past few days, and had also bought Zachary a few sweatshirts and a bright red hooded jacket. The store owner had also been nice enough to let him change into one of his new outfits so that he felt more comfortable. Now they were walking down the street, having decided to leave the car after putting the extra clothing in the back, since Orion had told him that their next destination was close by.

He hadn’t been lying, either. Not two minutes later he turned and held open a door, gesturing for him to step inside. Zachary did just that, ducking into the restaurant right as the smell of fast food Chinese food hit him in the face… and made his stomach rumble loudly. He was embarrassed at first, since he’d eaten only two hours ago, but then he actually chuckled to himself.

You’re awesome, stomach, you know how to work it when you know you’re gonna get filled.

It always seemed to know when he was going to get more than his normal once-a-day item. When Orion stopped beside him behind the man currently ordering, they both glanced up at the menu. Everything looked good, and he could remember from a long time ago that he liked sweet and sour chicken and the spicy green beans.

“What would you like, Zachary? And no lying and saying that you’re not hungry, because your stomach is yelling at me to fill it or parish.”

His words made Zach crack a smile and look up at him. “I really like spicy green beans and I think I remember trying the sweet and sour chicken, too.”

He nodded, then they both stepped forward. Zachary considered ordering his portion after Orion ordered his, but he quickly closed his mouth when he realized that Orion was paying, so he could technically order anything he wanted and Zachary shouldn’t interrupt, even if what he’d asked for wasn’t requested. Orion ended up ordering what he’d wanted, then added a package of egg rolls, General Tso’s chicken, and pork fried rice.

The food was done in only a few minutes and Zachary took the big bag, honestly wanting to at least carry it since Orion had bought it. He set it down on the table where Orion had sat down, then quickly began taking out the containers until the bag was completely empty. He then folded the bag and set it aside, eyes wide and eager for the big lunch.

Orion opened all of the containers, then, to Zachary’s surprise, he split the rice between two of the long, see-through lids, then began sorting the food up on top of them. By the time he was done he’d moved about half of the food from the containers and made two decently-piled ‘plates’.

“Best to try everything at least one,” he said before nudging one of the lids over to Zachary, then handing him chopsticks.

Uh oh. My greatest nemesis.

After being on the streets for so long, he never got frustrated with anything… except for chopsticks. People often tossed them on the sidewalk, and since they were usually wrapped, he always picked them up in case he needed some type of utensil. They had unfortunately proven more of a hassle than a help.

Oh my god, that look! You’d think the poor guy had been stabbed by chopsticks repeatedly to glare daggers at the poor utensils like he is.

Holding back a chuckle, Orion slid from his seat and quickly pulled the one beside Zachary close, then took a seat, armed with his own unwrapped chopsticks.

“Don’t like chopsticks, Zachary?” He asked, making the guy’s expression sour.

Definitely not.

“Let me show you,” Orion said before reaching over to Zachary’s food and taking a piece of chicken between his chopsticks. He then lifted them until the sweet chicken was pressed against Zachary’s lips. The food smelled delicious, but Zach’s lips looked even more so. Especially when the younger man opened his mouth and chomped down on the chicken, a playful smirk turning his yummy lips upward. When he opened his mouth to begin speaking, Orion’s chest tightened slightly, but then swelled with pride as Zachary seemed to remember that he disliked it when he spoke with his mouth full.

Good boy. He thought to himself, knowing that he couldn’t lay things on too thick too fast. Orion’s smile shifted to one of awkward confusion when he watched Zachary lean forward and promptly bite his chopsticks, snapping the wood at the tips so that it splintered.

“I call foul play,” Orion mumbled as he tossed his deceased chopsticks to the side and grabbed Zachary’s, with the guy’s fingers still on them.

“I’m gonna force you to learn how to dominate these. Now watch,” he said as he moved Zachary’s hand and fingers with his own. It took some focus and a few mess-ups before they managed to get a piece of chicken settled between the two pieces of wood and up to Zachary’s waiting mouth. He did that a few more times before releasing Zach’s hand and gesturing for him to try.

Of course the restaurant did have forks and knives, but messing with his Zachary was so much more fun… and it was helping him learn to bend a little, even if it was just to something as simple as not being able to have a fork. What made Orion really enjoy the situation though, was the fact that Zachary wasn’t trying to even get the fork. He seemed to already accept that he was eating with chopsticks, or not at all. Apparently, the ‘not at all’ part was more likely to happen than with, because he soon tossed down his chopsticks, frustrated and grumbling about how useless eating food with sticks was.

“Oriooon,” he mumbled, looking up at him with the most unfair puppy eyes he’d ever seen. Normally he didn’t like whining, but Zachary somehow made it seem almost cute.

Sorry sweetheart, no forks, but…

“Here, ah?” Orion said as he grasped the abandoned pair of chopsticks and got some rice and chicken with them. There was no argument from Zachary as he opened his mouth and carefully took the chicken and rice between his teeth. The sight was gorgeous, and Orion found himself repeatedly feeding Zachary with a content smile on his face the whole time. He honestly saw himself in the poor guy, having been on the streets himself as a young man. While he doubted Zachary’s reason for being in such a predicament was by choice, he couldn’t say the same about himself.

I’d given it all up. A good job, a girlfriend who loved me… and also introduced me to what eventually fucked my mind to the point where I couldn’t think of anything but them. Drugs.

Orion felt his muscles tense up as memories of getting high and shooting up in alleys far too similar to what Zachary had lived in flooded his mind. It had been amazing passing each day feeling more invincible than the next, but when it was all said and done, he’d ended up broke, on the streets, and with an arrest record for theft and drugs. What actually, truly, ended his drug addiction was George. They had never hooked up or anything of that sort, because when they’d first met Orion still figured he was straight. However, George actually saw something in him besides a dirty stoner and pulled strings, at the risk of his own job, to get him a spot.

There Orion learned that he could actually control himself, and that he liked regaining that control through hard work. He worked overtime every chance he got and helped others as often as possible. When he was given his own upstairs room because of customer preference, he gladly accepted and the slight promotion and slowly began to learn about the BDSM lifestyle from some of his patrons. While controlling his own life was empowering, when he started learning how to be a dominant, everything just seemed to fall into place. He loved being in control of other people’s decisions, but when he noticed other couples causing pain and being too aggressive, he decided to slowly back away and review how he wanted to go about being a dominant. It took awhile, and several subs, before he was finally comfortable. His last sub had hit his heart a bit hard by cheating, but the moment he saw Zachary sitting alone in the alleyway, he couldn’t think of anything but trying to get him into his arms. To tell him that it would all be okay soon enough.

“U-um, Orion?”

Hearing his sweet voice, Orion blinked, having not realized that his attention had slipped.

“Yes, Zachary?”

His eyes darted to the lid-plate, making Orion’s eyes follow.

Oh. It’s empty.

“Th-thank you for lunch.”

Realizing that Zachary was likely suggesting that he should actually eat now instead of feed him, Orion grinned and lifted the chopsticks. “You’re welcome, Zachary. I think I’ll have dessert first though.”

Zachary’s head tilted slightly, adorably, obviously confused about what exactly dessert was. He found out soon enough, because Orion didn’t hesitate to gently grasp Zachary’s cute nose with the chopsticks and tug, bringing the young man just close enough so that he could tilt his own head and lean in for a chaste kiss.

I’ll Be Here

(Awesome cover fanart by MayaDemonAngel)

Zachary was incredibly confused. Not from the kiss, he thought Orion might just try it eventually, but what part of a kiss equaled dessert? He couldn’t wrap his mind around the idea of a person being something similar to cake.

Cake is far better than most people. I’m not sweet, either.

His eyes widened slightly in understanding as he figured out what Orion meant.

“You called that dessert because the chicken was sweet, right?”

Orion stared at him for a long, quiet moment before he slowly nodded and began eating his portion of food. If Zachary didn’t know better, he’d think that his guess had been right, but it was obvious Orion was rolling his eyes on the inside.

Oh well. Maybe I am just that sweet. He thought optimistically.

“Here.”

Looking up, Zachary barely had enough time to open his mouth before an egg roll was shoved between his teeth. He was so stunned that he actually forgot to chew and just sat there, staring at Orion until the man snickered. “Chew, Zachary.”

Oh.

He chewed, once.

“…again.”

He chewed a second time, getting an actual eye roll from Orion when he stopped right away.

“Chew three times.”

Zachary did as told, trying his best to hold back a grin. It was obvious now that he was just messing with Orion, but he couldn’t help himself. It was fun!

“I see how it is. Fine. Lick it.”

As soon as Orion said that he seemed to realize an obvious fact that would make his try at getting back at Zachary by embarrassing him, null.

“Yeah yeah. I know your tongue is in your mouth.”

He knew exactly what Zachary was thinking… likely because the guy was trying so hard to keep himself from bursting out laughing. After a moment he had to take the egg roll out of his mouth so that he could breathe without choking on it.

Err. Drooled a bit.

Lifting the egg roll back up, he quickly lapped at the two lines of drool that had escaped his mouth when he removed it, then bit the top to finally start eating the food.

“You torture me.” Orion mumbled, drawing Zach’s attention back across the table. He wasn’t sure what else he’d done to bother the guy, but obviously it wasn’t that bad since he was still sitting there eating his food at a content pace.

“I try my best,” Zachary said anyways, flashing a toothy grin before finishing off his egg roll. He nibbled at whatever else Orion decided to put in front of him, or really, in his mouth, until all of the food was completely gone and his stomach was the fullest it had ever been.

“Alright you, let’s get going. We still have to stop by the grocery store.”

Zachary gave him an are you serious? look.

“You never go to a grocery store hungry.”

Unless you’re me.

Zach smirked, making Orion frown before getting up and reaching over. Soon Zachary was being tugged out of the restaurant, Orion tossing their garbage into the can by the door. Instead of walking to the grocery store they headed back to the car. Zachary waited obediently for Orion to get his door, knowing that the man would want to. After he slid in he got his seat belt buckled, then waited for Orion to get in and get them on their way. The store was only a few blocks away though, so the ride was short and silent, both of them content with their own thoughts. When Orion got the car parked, Zachary expected him to get out and walk around to help him out, but instead of even opening his own door, he turned to him with a cautious smile.

“Did that kiss bother you?”

Zachary had to think about that question for a moment more than he’d expected to. It was a kiss, which normally meant someone liked you in that way, but he had just met Orion. They barely knew each other so reading anything but a joke in that kiss wouldn’t make any sense.

“It was a joke, right? I don’t mind.”

Orion seemed to think over his words for a moment before finally nodding and sliding out of the car to walk around to Zachary’s. He was still milling around his thoughts on the kiss when his door was opened and Orion reached over to unbuckle his seat belt.

“Don’t dwell on it, Zachary. It is whatever you wanted it to be, right?”

He’s right. Anything that happens to me is what I get to decide. Even though he said he likes control, he hasn’t forced me into anything bad.

“Right.”

Taking the hand Orion offered, Zach slid from his seat and let the taller man help him up. The grocery store was the same one he normally went to, so he smiled when he saw his old friend working her cash register line. She noticed him after a moment, too, and waved. Her eyes then turned to Orion, but before she could give Zachary a questioning look she had to tend to someone needing to check out. That left him running after Orion, who had gotten a cart and was already heading for the first aisle.

“Your friend?” Orion asked when Zachary caught up and began to keep pace with the cart.

“Yeah. She’s really nice. She gave me the broccoli yesterday.”

Orion smiled, nodding before leaving the cart to look at something on a shelf. Jumping at the chance, Zachary took hold of the bar on the cart. He wanted to at least push it since he didn’t even have his money to help buy anything. Orion took down several packages of pasta and put them on the cart, then gently ran his left hand over Zach’s hair before walking ahead. Without realizing it, Zachary grinned at the light pet and quickly hurried to follow. Orion stopped several more times to grab a few different pasta sauces, some cheese, and salami.

I miss cheese.

It had been his favorite thing back when he was living with his parents, and once in awhile, when he had at least two jobs, he’d buy himself some sharp cheddar. Orion did get some cheddar, so Zachary hoped, for the first time in awhile, that he could at least share a piece with the man when he decided to eat it.

“Zachary? Come.”

Blinking out of his thoughts, Zach hurried to catch up as Orion turned a corner down another aisle.

Oh, yummy. Snacks!

It’s an aisle he avoided at all costs, knowing that there was just no comparing nutritional value between real vegetables and cheeze crackers. Even the ones that spell cheese correctly aren’t very healthy.

“Would you like anything, Zachary?”

Zach paused, looking at the boxes of crackers and cookies Orion had already tossed into the cart. He wasn’t really sure how he was supposed to answer him. Of course he wanted something. Heck, any of the things on the shelves he would have loved, but his mind forced him to reason with himself.

If he’s offering to buy me snacks, if I decline until we get to the vegetable aisle, perhaps he’ll buy me something from there.

“No thank you, Orion.”

It hurt to decline food, but he was hopeful that it might lead to him eventually getting something more beneficial, at likely less of a cost to Orion, too.

“Alright, let’s continue then.”

The next few aisles were skipped because they were mainly for barbequing, pets, and party stuff. When they got to the toiletries and hygiene aisle, however, Orion was quick to turn. They stopped by the toothpaste and toothbrushes, making Zachary glance up at Orion in confusion. He already had a toothbrush to borrow… did Orion want him to get his own toothpaste, too?

Wait. Why am I even thinking that? I’m probably going back to my alley soon so it shouldn’t matter to him whether or not I have toothpaste or not.

“Open your mouth please, Zachary.”

Huh?

When he didn’t obey Orion just grinned and reached over, gently nudging his finger between Zach’s and pressing down, forcing his mouth open a small amount. “Look up, please.”

This time, Zachary obeyed immediately, the action making his mouth open a little more.

“You’ve got very nice teeth but it looks like they could use a cleaning.”

He had no doubt that they could. He hadn’t brushed them for years, but dentists were expensive. Not to mention, he could remember his last appointment and it hadn’t been very positive. At least he barely ever touched sweets, so he likely didn’t have any cavities.

“Let’s see if this toothpaste helps for now,” Orion said as he grabbed a package from the shelf and tossed it into the cart. Zachary was okay with him buying him toothpaste, but that tube was nearly eight dollars!

“Come.”

Feeling like an argument would be fruitless, Zachary kept himself quiet and followed. Orion added some floss to the cart as well before they turned to the next aisle. Socks were next, though he was a bit surprised to see them in a grocery store. After another ten minutes and some randomly-added food, they were at the outside of the final aisle where Zachary often found his once-a-day meal. The cart had a decent amount of stuff now, but it was nowhere near full. Orion seemed to have a plan to fill it though, because as soon as they got to the aisle he began picking different fruits and vegetables out. He ended up adding a bag of potatoes, broccoli, spinach, carrots, and peas. Then for the fruits he decided to get with bananas, apples, and a package of strawberries.

Those strawberries look delicious.

Heck, it all looked delicious to him after not eating much for three years. Zachary could never afford to be picky, which is why he never got himself junk food, even though it might taste better sometimes.

“Zachary?”

Jumping from slight surprise, he shoved the cart forward, intent on following Orion, but the other man actually stopped the cart with a hand and a raised brow.

Oh. Oops. He isn’t even walking.

“Go pick out a vegetable and a fruit.”

Zachary wanted to argue, but he could tell that he wasn’t being asked, but was being told.

“O-okay,” he mumbled out as he walked around the area, looking for the cheapest items. He was unaware, however, that as he stopped at each food he actually wanted, but decided to skip, Orion was following behind him and putting each of them in the cart.

Oh my god are you a sweetheart.

When Zachary finally returned to the cart with a small bag of grapes and one yellow crookneck squash, Orion couldn’t help but chuckle. The younger guy seemed confused at first, but when he went to add his two simple items to the cart, his face had Orion literally cracking up. He’d done it to make the guy happy, and of course, spoil him. What he didn’t expect though, was the guy’s reaction after he set his items inside with the others.

Orion’s dying laughter stopped abruptly when arms wrapped around his neck and a warm nose nuzzled into its crook. His own reaction was automatic. He immediately wrapped his arms around Zachary and held him as close as he could. The younger man’s body melded to his almost perfectly.

It’s okay, sweetheart. You deserve to finally have something you want, not just need. 

“Th-thank y-you so m-much.”

He was so into the hug, loving that Zachary had even wrapped his legs around his waist, that Orion nearly didn’t catch his whispered words. His heart swelled with pride and his dominant side flared to life, making him speak before he could really think through his words.

“Come home with me, Zachary. You can stay for as long as you’d like. I will never keep you there against your will or do anything you tell me you don’t want me to. I want to keep your stomach full forever, a roof over your head, and clean clothing on your back.”

Orion could hear Zachary sniffle but judging form the way his arms were only tightening around his neck, he knew he was getting close to getting through to the guy.

“Let me spoil you, please. I loved buying you clothing and the adorable look you had on your face when you saw all the things I put in the cart when you weren’t paying attention.”

Wide, watery eyes finally met his as Zachary leaned back after a minute, still sniffling a little. Orion couldn’t resist, he shifted Zachary’s weight to one arm and lifted the other so that he could give his soft hair a pet. They were quiet for several more moments before Zach finally spoke in hushed words. “I-I’m… not sure.”

His words did make Orion inwardly fidget slightly, worried that he may have pushed too hard too fast. He swallowed his worry though, and instead gave Zachary a gorgeous smile as he gently let the guy slide down from his arms to his own two feet.

“I understand, Zachary. It’s going to storm tonight like yesterday, so would you do me the favor of staying till at least the morning? I just want to be sure that you’re safe and at least have a good dinner and breakfast.”

“B-but you d-don’t know me.” He stuttered out.

Zach’s words had Orion suddenly realizing something.

“You’re right, I don’t. But I see someone in you that I want to raise up. You have potential and, so far, are the most humble, sweet guy I’ve met.”

When Zachary got tongue-tied Orion grinned and took his hand, easily pushing the cart with his free one as he tugged Zach toward the checkout. Intentionally, he went into the older woman’s line. Well, mainly because she was glaring daggers at him and he was afraid she might spank him if he didn’t clear up why Zachary was crying.

“Good evening, ma’am. I believe I made your boy cry, but I promise it’s not because I smacked him with a cucumber but because I put extra food in the cart and plan to force him to eat it later.”  

The woman’s expression instantly changed to one of excitement as she gave him a firm nod and began ringing things up. Even with the added food the bill wasn’t very large. “Thank you ma’am, have a great day.” Orion said once they had all of their bags and Zachary began pushing the cart away from the register, a faint pink tint to his cheeks.

“I expect to see him chubby soon, or I’ll have to come after you with a cucumber.” The old woman said with a wink. Orion couldn’t help himself, he winked back with a smile and then jogged after Zachary. Since he was already waiting by the car, Orion hit the fob to unlock the trunk and let Zachary begin putting things away.

By the time he got close enough to help Zach already had the last two bags in his hands, so Orion just pushed the cart back to the return, then ran back to open Zachary’s door.

Good boy, you waited for me.

Once he was in his own seat and they were both buckled Orion got them home. He kind of wanted to take Zachary to the dentist and just do a walk-in cleaning, too, but they had stuff in the trunk that needed to get put away, so he’d save that for another day. When they finally got everything inside Orion dropped to his knees by his mini-fridge and opened it, seemingly surprised to see it full of beer.

“Oh right. I forgot my last s– uh, my friend left his habit here. I hardly ever needed this fridge before so I guess he figured he could use it.”

He seemed to think for a moment, then shrug and pull out a can. Right after he popped it open to take a sip, the sound of feet shuffling against the floor caught his attention and he glanced over his shoulder to see Zachary peeking at him from inside the bathroom. His eyes held two different emotions that Orion could clearly read, and highly disliked. Fear and sadness.

“I’m just opening them so that I can pour them out. There are a lot here though, so please come help?”

Zachary’s eyes flicked to the fridge, then back up to Orion’s face several times before he gave a shaky nod and began hesitantly walking toward him.

I don’t like wasting anything, but if he’s upset by alcohol, it likely played a really bad part of his past. And I can understand not wanting to revisit one’s past.

Handing him two cans, Orion then grabbed three and they both made their way to the sink in the bathroom. They went through at least twenty before the last one was left in Zachary’s hand. He’d already popped it open, but was struggling to pour it out.

“It’s okay, Zachary,” Orion said quietly as he walked over, placing himself behind him. “Just take a deep breath,” he continued as he lifted his left hand and very gently pressed it over Zachary’s wide eyes. “Pour it away, just like the memories created by it.”

After several deep, steadying breaths Zachary did just that, tilting his hand to slowly drain the contents of the can. When the last drop had been removed Orion could feel moisture against his palm and wrapped his right arm around Zachary’s too-thin waist in a gentle hug. When he felt him lean back into his chest as a result, Orion didn’t hesitate to lean forward and press a soft kiss to Zachary’s hair, then whisper.

“I’ve got you, sweetheart. Please, lean on me”

Interrogation

“So… I believe we have some groceries to put away, hm?” Orion said with a smile as he removed his hands from Zachary, only to tap his backside before stepping out of the bathroom. The tap made Zachary jump, dropping the empty can in the sink before he stalked after Orion.

“That was not your butt to tap,” he chided as he knelt down beside Orion and began digging through the bags to get things put away.

“Oh?”

Zachary tried to glare at him and shook the thing he’d just grabbed from the bag at the older man, but when the guy just snickered, Zach glanced down at his hand and frowned.

Of course. Out of all the things I could have grabbed to shake at him, it’s the cucumber.

When Orion burst out laughing Zach smacked him over the head with the vegetable.

“Oh, how I wish I had gotten a photo of that.”

Both of their heads jerked over toward the door where a woman that looked around thirty or so stood.

“Don’t you ever knock?” Orion grumbled as he stood up and walked over to her.

“Nope. You know this already, Master. “

Orion rolled his eyes but Zachary knew he didn’t mind because of the smile that accompanied the gesture. “What do I owe the pleasure of this visit, Xena?”

“Aww, not happy to see your very own warrior princess?” Xena said as she tried to skirt around Orion to obviously get to Zachary. When she couldn’t get past him she huffed out a frustrated breath and put her hands on her thin hips.

“Oh come on, Orion. I just wanna see your new sub. No need to hide this one from me just because I drove off Mackenzie. You and I both know that he wasn’t even gay and just wanted to piss off his friend that liked you.”

“I know that, but you also drove of Mitchel and Harmon, too.”

The woman paused, then smirked. “True. They just annoyed me.”

Orion shook his head and sat down on the bed, then realized his mistake when Xena blurred past him and over to Zachary. Unsure of what to do about the woman rapidly encroaching on his personal space, Zach lifted the cucumber in both hands and pointed it at her like a weapon.

“D-don’t come any closer!”

The woman stopped abruptly and looked back at Orion like he was crazy. “You picked an interesting one this time. Defending himself with a cucumber?”

“He’s spunky, but he’s not my sub” Orion said with a grin. Xena didn’t look impressed. In fact, she turned back to Zachary and returned her hands to her hips.

“Alright you, all of Orion’s subs have to go through me before you can be official. So, what’s your name?”

But I’m not his sub…

Doubting that she’d even believe him, Zachary hunched his shoulders and replied. “Zachary.”

“How old are you? Where do you work? Where did you live before Orion invited you to stay here?”

Man, she knows him really well.

“I’m twenty, and uh, I don’t have a job yet.”

Her eyes narrowed, but when Zachary didn’t answer her last question she turned and glared at Orion.

“Really Orion? How many times do I have to throw out guys that just want to take advantage of you? It should be really obvious by now, yet you keep bringing them home.”

“Xena, he’s not trying to take advantage of anything.”

The woman threw her arms up in frustration. “I’m not going to deal with another useless brat strutting about the club like he owns it because you’re his dom.”

“I already told you, he’s not my sub, Xena.”

The woman didn’t even blink at Orion’s answer and instead turned her attention back to Zachary and his cucumber-weapon. “Answer the last question. Where did you live before he invited you to stay here? You’re getting drug tested either way, but I still want an address.”

I don’t like her, but if she wants the truth, I’ll give it to her.

“I was homeless. He found me during the rainstorm in the alley two blocks away.”

The woman’s face relaxed slightly out of surprise. “What?”

Shifting from foot to foot nervously, Zachary looked down at his feet, lowering the cucumber as he shrugged and mumbled. “I don’t have a home. I’ve been trying to get a job for awhile, because I’m down to twelve dollars and twenty-two cents, but it’s hard to impress people when you have nothing to offer.”

For once in his life, Zachary felt inadequate. His normally determined, positive outlook just didn’t help him right then as the cucumber slipped from his fingers and dropped to the floor.

“That’s enough, Xena.” Orion finally said, pushing his way past her in order to tug Zachary into his arms. He hadn’t wanted to interfere because Zachary was his own man, and really made him proud by standing up to such a dominant woman that scared even him, but it was time to step in and protect what was his.

“He isn’t my sub. I put my collar on him and he asked me to take it off. He might let me have him one day, but for now I just want to help him. He’s not taking advantage of me at all, and everything I’ve done so far has been strictly because I wanted to do it.”

The woman took a few frustrated breaths before taking a step away from them and crossing her arms over her chest. “What expensive store did you get his clothing from?”

“The thrift store down the street. The receipt is still in the bag.”

Her eyes widened, pouting frown finally beginning to turn authentic.

“Where did you take him for lunch? I know you, you always take out new guys to start getting to know them.”

“We went to that Chinese fast food place near the thrift store.”

When Xena finally turned her attention back to Zachary Orion felt the guy nod, his head gently moving against his chest, where he held it for comfort.

“Darn it. Fine, I got it. He’s not your sub, at least not yet, and he’s not trying to take advantage of you. Did I miss anything?”

“Yes. You forgot to tell me about the birthday party you’re planning for tonight, even though I told you at least twenty times over the years that I don’t like parties with your clingy customers. Unless you’re down here for another reason that I can’t guess.”

Xena rolled her eyes and flicked her wrist, as if his words meant nothing. And to her, they pretty much did. “Oh you’ll get over it, Orion. Tonight’s your night to let loose!”

Correction. Tonight’s you’re night to let loose, and blame me later for letting you get shit-faced.

“Be up in about an hour, okay Master?” She said as she sashayed her way toward the door, her tiny pitch-black dress swaying with her matching hair as she moved.

“Yes mom,” Orion sighed, making the woman giggle before disappearing out the door. When he was sure she was gone he flopped over onto the bed, blowing out a frustrated breath.

“God, this is going to be terrible.”

Zachary slid onto the bed, sitting beside him with a curious stare. “Why not just skip it if you don’t want to go?”

Orion looked up at Zach, grinning at the guy’s naivety. “She’s my boss… and she has a key to this room.”

Realization took over Zachary’s curious expression and he shook his head.

“Yup, that’s basically my outlook on it. Since I don’t have a sub yet, either, I’m probably going to get swamped with random presents that I don’t want, either.”

Shaking his own head, Orion sat up and reached over, mussing up Zach’s hair out of habit before sliding from the bed. “I’m gonna go get in the shower, since I know she’ll skin me if I don’t look the way she wants when I go upstairs for the party. Can you put away what we bought please?”

“Sure,” Zachary said as he quickly slid from the bed and began doing just that. He removed the plate of food Orion had made him the previous day and got busy stuffing the fridge with the new things he’d bought. By the time Orion was in the shower he had put everything away… and really, really had to pee.

Just wait . He told himself, trying to force himself to hold it, but darn it! He’d drunk way too much water at the restaurant. It wasn’t even two minutes later that he peeked into the bathroom. “O-Orion? Can I use the bathroom real quick?”

The dark outline on the other side of the frosted shower glass made him blush as Orion turned to face him, but obviously couldn’t see him. “Of course.” Zachary didn’t wait another second as he rushed forward and unzipped his pants. The relief made him sigh, getting a deep chuckle from Orion as he finished up.

“Just don’t flu—fuck!” Zachary literally did exactly what he told him not too, a second before the words left Orion’s mouth.

Oops!

“Sorry!”

Another quiet laugh came from him, drawing Zachary’s eyes toward the frosted glass just long enough for him to see Orion rubbing his likely-burning backside. He forced his eyes away toward the sink, a blush quickly covering his face right down to his neck. He stood there quietly for a moment, expecting Orion to say something, but when he instead heard the shower door open, he knew he had to run! Unfortunately, he, of course, wasn’t fast enough. Orion’s soaked, bare arm slid around his waist and pulled him backward, straight under the spray of water!

“Ah! Hot!”

It wasn’t as hot as it had likely been when he’d flushed the toilet by accident, but it was still pretty hot.

Wait a second.

Moving a little, Zachary confirmed that he was being held against something firm… and breathing.

So that also means Orion… and Orion is naked.

If his neck and ears weren’t bright red yet, they definitely were now! His heart was pumping so fast that he thought he might begin to get light-headed, too, especially when he felt Orion nuzzle against his cheek beneath the warm spray.

“You burnt my butt.”

Zach’s eyes had squeezed shut, but now blinked open, surprised by how random Orion’s statement was. Not that it was a lie, he likely did have a red butt right then, but Zachary definitely hadn’t expected him to say those words instead of teasing him or getting upset!

“I-I’m sorry.”

There was silence for a moment before Orion slowly released him to stand on his own. Zachary didn’t dare turn around until he was literally forced to by Orion’s firm hands on his shoulders. He thought the older man might still be a bit upset, but when all he was met with was Orion’s grin, he felt his body relax.

“I’m not mad, you just startled me with the hot water. I know it was a mistake.”

Zachary nervously licked his lips and nodded. It had definitely been a mistake.

“There will be a punishment, however.”

What? But he said he wasn’t mad.

Worry etched its way onto Zach’s face but before he could dwell on it Orion told him to turn around. Stiffly, Zachary did as told. He knew that Orion wouldn’t hurt him, but he wasn’t really sure what else he could do as a possible punishment. His thoughts broke apart when strong fingers began to work soap into his hair, making a groan slip from his lips unintentionally. Orion easily blocked the spray of water with his large stature so all Zachary had to do was focus on staying upright, which was harder than he’d ever thought possible considering how good Orion’s fingers felt against his scalp.

After the shampoo was washed off he eagerly anticipated the conditioner. Orion didn’t hesitate to apply it, but instead of scrubbing it in he gently slid his fingers through his smooth hair, removing any tangles that had managed to occur throughout the day.

“Orion?”

The older man’s fingers paused in his hair for a brief second before he replied. “Yes, Zachary?”

“Do you um… um, have any books o-on…”

He couldn’t manage to finish his sentence, embarrassment taking over him again. It was a simple question, one Orion had probably heard plenty of times, or even asked at some point, but for some reason Zachary just couldn’t get the words out of his mouth.

“BDSM?”

Turning slowly, Zachary felt Orion’s hands slip from his hair and slowly move down his wet face, finally stopping on his shoulders. He wanted to talk, to acknowledge what Orion said, but after a few silent moments he just nodded. It was a simple gesture to a simple question, but the way it lit up Orion’s face… it made Zach’s chest suddenly feel too small for his racing heart.

I want to make him smile like that more.

Orion

Words could not explain the emotions swarming through Orion’s mind at that moment. He felt as if he could get down on one knee and offer Zachary a ring, just for pushing past his nervousness and asking for a simple book. The younger man’s face also lit up when he himself smiled, making Orion’s heart slam against his chest like a jackhammer.

“I-I will get you one that explains the very basics of it… however,” Orion mumbled the last part of his sentence as he let his eyes skim Zachary’s still-clothed body down to his toes, then back up to his eyes.

At least he remembered to kick off his new shoes.

As much as his fingers itched to remove Zachary’s clothes one inch at a time and savor revealing his bare skin to his eyes for a second time, he knew right then wasn’t the time. He, unfortunately, had a party to get to, and Zachary had some reading to do . Grinning, Orion tugged Zach forward and helped him rinse out his hair, then turned the water off before stepping out to begin drying himself off.

“Go ahead and shut the shower door, then strip out of those clothes. You can hang them on the bar in there so that they can dry.”

He expected the door to shut right away, but it was at least three full seconds before he heard the magnet seal shut, making Orion chuckle to himself as he wrapped his towel around his waist, then grabbed one to toss to Zachary. Once he was sure the guy didn’t need any help getting out of the wet clothing, sadly, he walked back into his room, then went inside his closet. In all honesty, he wanted to just wear normal clothing for once, but he knew a good portion of the people there would be expecting him to be in leather.

Sighing with a shake of his head, Orion pulled on a pair of underwear, then found a nice pair of black leather pants and yanked them on. He could already feel how bad his underwear was going to chafe by the end of the party, but he knew better than to go commando around drunk, handsy patrons again.

Definitely not a memory I want to relive.

Looking around, he frowned at the different black leather accessories he often used for ‘shirts’, but didn’t really feel like any of them fit his mood for the night. It was significantly better than he would normally expect since Zachary had asked to at least read a book on his lifestyle, but that still left Orion with the task of dodging hands and teeth in the lion’s den tonight.

The sound of Zachary scurrying about in the bedroom had Orion turning around just in time to see his towel drop as he tried to pull on boxers with it still around his waist. He was still skin and bones, and likely would be for awhile, but the guy had an adorable butt.

“Orion… you can stop staring now.”

Oops.

He thought about playing it off, but heck, Zachary already knew he liked him, so why not look?

“You have a nice butt.”

Zach rolled his eyes but he couldn’t hide the deep blush burning its way up from his neck to settle in his cheeks. Winking, Orion admired the guy’s bare chest for a moment before turning back to try and find something to wear for himself. He sifted through the leather another time, then grumbled. None of it looked good right then.

“How about these?”

Surprised, Orion turned to see Zachary holding up a blood-red length of leather in one hand and a more intricate item of the same color in the other. He looked incredibly nervous, with his eyes darting around the large closet, but he kept the items in his hands and didn’t bolt like Orion thought he might.

“I forgot I had those. Sure, will you help me get them on? The ropes are a bit hard to fasten one-handed.”

Of course, he had become a master at it over the years, but he wasn’t going to tell that to Zach. At least, not yet. The guy will likely figure it out fast if they do end up becoming dominant and submissive anyways.

“Oh. Okay.”

Stepping forward, Zachary set the more intricate item down and when Orion offered him an arm, he carefully began wrapping the leather.

So cute.

“Let me show you, okay? Just hold this piece right here, tightly, okay?” Orion said as he undid what Zachary had already done and pressed the end-piece of the length right before the bend of his arm. The younger man did as told right away, allowing Orion to wrap the leather but paying close attention to each motion.

“Doesn’t that hurt?” He finally asked once it was completely fastened. Orion raised his brows, grinning.

“Yes. But not like a shot or punch might. It is more an ache over time. I have gotten used to it after years.”

Zach frowned, obviously not understanding.

That’s okay, sweetheart. I didn’t understand at first either, and I know it’s different for everyone.

“It helps me ground myself. I did very bad, very stupid things in my past, and this little bit of pain helps me remember never to go down that road again. Also, the feeling of being constricted, at least to me, feels like a hug. Secure and strong. So even when I do not have anyone to love me, I can still feel the sensation.”

Orion glanced away nervously, shrugging slightly before returning his attention to Zachary’s curious eyes.

“I’ve never told anyone else that part, so please keep it for yourself, okay? Most people who have told me why they do this have less savory reasons, and I must admit that a very small portion of my intentions may coincide with theirs at very specific moments, but… I-I think I may be confusing you.”

Zach blinked and tilted his head, reminding Orion of a puppy who was most-definitely confused, or at least curious. “I… um, it’s okay.” Orion wasn’t too sure if he really did  get it, but when Zachary gave him a dazzling smile and held up the next length of leather, he figured that it was good enough. Besides, Zach wasn’t running, screaming from the closet yet, so it had to be a positive. Right?

“Can I try again?” He asked, getting an immediate nod from Orion. This time he seemed a little less focused on being gentle and much more-so on doing it exactly how he’d been shown.

Perfect. 

Flexing his hands when Zachary finished, Orion felt the tight coils constrict against his muscles.

“Wow. You did really well.”

Zachary smiled, then quickly grabbed the other item from the floor. “How do you put this one on?”

“The three long bands go around my chest, but it will be easier to fasten those if I put the other part over my head first.”

He nodded, then lifted the item over Orion’s head as he leaned over and quickly got busy fastening the three buckles that rested over his left ribs. While he worked Orion gave him random tips on how to tighten the straps easier or check to see if they were as tight as he liked, or needed to be fixed. Every single thing he said though, Zachary listened intently to. When he had finished about ten minutes later Orion couldn’t have been more proud. It wasn’t perfect, but who the hell cared. Zachary had done it for him!

Realizing that he was staring again, Orion leaned over and took his little soon-to-be sub into his arms for a tight hug. “You did great, sweetheart.” He cooed, determined now, more than ever, to make sure that he doesn’t scare Zachary away. When the young man’s arms wrapped around his neck, returning the hug, Orion thought skipping Xena’s party might just be worth her wrath if he could stay right where he was.

Unfortunately, he knew this time he couldn’t blow off her party. “As much as I want to hug you all night until you pop,” Orion chuckled. “I’ve got to get upstairs before Xena comes and finds me and drags me out.”

“Kicking and screaming?” Zach added, looking up at him when they finally disengaged their hug.

“Absolutely, because I’d rather stay down here with you then bother with the party any day.”

The blush on Zach’s face made Orion have to rustle his hair before walking out of the closet and dropping to the bed to get his boots on. He usually put them on before his leather, but his mind was just not itself with a frustrating party coming up.

“Here, I got it Orion,” Zachary said as he dropped to his knees in front of him, surprising Orion. The view was one he was used to seeing with other people, but with Zachary?

Don’t touch. Don’t. You have to be upstairs in a few minutes and you can’t keep getting distracted.

God, yes he could! He wanted to get distracted, especially if it involved more bindings and Zach!

The second Zachary had finished tying his shoes Orion jumped up and strode toward the door, needing some breathing room before he embarrassed himself. Just keep acting like a clingy idiot and he’s sure to love you. Not.

“I’m going to head upstairs, thank you for helping me. I really appreciate it, and here. Take this.” Orion said before grabbing two keys hanging near the door and tossing one to Zachary.

“That’s the key to the outside door so that you can come and go as you like, but it won’t open this one.”

“Oh. Thank you, Orion.”

He nodded and grabbed the door handle, only pausing to look over his shoulder and smile. “I’ll try to sneak out as soon as I can, but until I’m back, feel free to do or eat whatever you’d like.”

Zachary smiled and nodded, giving a little wave as Orion walked out and the door clicked shut.

He forgot to give me that book. Oh well.

Not really knowing what else to do after he finished up his cold, leftover pasta from the night before and put on his shoes and a dark red sweater, Zachary decided to go for a walk. It was likely already too late to look for jobs so he just enjoyed the crisp air as he strolled down the street. He intentionally went in the opposite direction as his alley.

He wasn’t really sure why, but when a bright sign advertising a sewing shop beneath it caught his eye, he couldn’t help but follow his feet to it. The shop was surprisingly still open, though considering the fact that the sun was mostly down, it had to be at least eight o’clock. Stepping inside, a small bell chimed over his head, alerting the little old woman sitting behind a desk to his right to his presence.

“Hello there, can I help you with anything?”

Zachary suddenly felt very nervous, having no idea why he came into the shop. “Um, n-no thank you. I just wanted to look around.”

She giggled quietly and nodded, then went back to what she was working on before he had come in. Relieved, Zach began walking around the room, his eyes darting here and there curiously. There were a lot of different little sewn nicknacks and stuffed animals, he figured all made by the woman at one point or another. One stuffed animal stood out to him, however. It was a small one, just big enough to sit in the palm of his hand, but something about it was just adorable.

It has that look that Orion gets when he’s embarrassed but tries to hide it. It always make him look like he’s pouting.

Reaching his hand into his pocket, Zachary felt the last of his money with his fingers and sighed. He had brought it with him out of instinct, but he couldn’t really consider spending it on a stuffed animal something worthwhile. Shaking his head, he turned around, intent on leaving, when something caught his attention. Unable to help himself, Zachary walked over, stopping in front of the wall that held several rows of collars. They were all well made, but he just couldn’t take his eyes off of a specific one.

“Oh, are you looking at that dark purple one, dear?”

Jumping from surprise, Zachary turned, noticing that the woman was now staring at him. He couldn’t find words to answer so he just shrugged, embarrassed that he couldn’t be a real customer and actually be able to afford one simple thing.

“I-I’m sorry. It’s really nice, but I don’t really have enough money to afford it.”

He knew the next thing people normally said to him in this situation was that he probably could. That the item wasn’t that expensive, but after the woman watched him for a moment, she ended up standing and gingerly walking over to the collar. When she took it down he braced himself, getting ready to tell her that he really, honestly, couldn’t afford it. Instead of her trying to push it on him, however, she walked right past him with the help of a cane and went over to the little stuffed animal he’d been looking at earlier. Once she had both items she returned to her desk and set the items next to her sewing machine before sitting down.

“That ones been hanging on the wall for quite some time. I think it’s best to give it a good home instead of making a few dollars, don’t you?”

Unable to argue, Zachary nodded and walked the few steps up to her desk.

“Now then, is there anything you want sewn onto it? A name for your dog?”

Biting his tongue, Zach nodded again, swallowing his grin as he answered. “Orion, please.”

“Alright, sweetie. This will only take a moment.” She said as she quickly got to work with her machine. Zachary waited, watching as the woman sowed Orion’s name into the collar with silver thread. When she finished and held it out to him, Zach couldn’t help but sniffle at her kindness.

“That’s really nice.” He said, honestly meaning it as he took the collar and stared down at it with a huge smile on his face.

“Thank you, young man. Here, take this little guy, too. He’s been sitting over there long enough to need dusted three times.”

Overcome, Zachary leaned across the table and gently hugged the woman. “Thank you so much. It means a lot.”

When he let her go she giggled and gave his shoulder a pat. “I’m glad. Now you best be getting home, it’s getting late and I’ve got to close.”

“O-oh, right! Um, thank you again, ma’am. Have a good night!” Zach said as he walked to the door, waving to the woman before he stepped out and began his walk home.

Home?

His shoes halted on the sidewalk abruptly. He hadn’t been thinking about his alley when he’d thought that. No, he’d been thinking of Orion. Not even the man’s room, but just him.

Orion.

A cold drop of rain plinked down onto his nose, making Zachary return his attention to his surroundings and where he needed to go. Evidently, before it started to pour. He ended up running the last block, and when he finally managed to get the darn key in the whole and step inside, he was shivering like a leaf. The shower called to him, the need to warm up making him bolt into the bathroom and strip. The water heated up as he pulled off his clothing, making it sting his skin when he finally stepped under the spray.

“Oh man. That feels so good.”

He scrubbed his body once it had warmed up, then shut off the water and dried off. He could have stayed under the spray for an hour, but it wasn’t his water so it would have been rude to just stand there to stay warm. He could, however, get under the blankets, which is exactly what he did after brushing his teeth with the new toothpaste Orion had bought him, flossing, and tugging on a pair of boxers and pajama pants. He had hung up his wet clothes on the bar in the shower, but, not wanting to leave the collar or bear sitting in the bathroom, he brought them with him to the bed.

Zachary snuggled in, warm and content, and for once in his life, not hungry or worried about tomorrow. He stared at the bear for a short time before setting it on the pillow next to him for Orion, then eyed the collar for a much longer time. Sleepiness took over after what felt like hours, and after hugging his pillow tightly, he fell fast asleep with the collar still in his hand.

The party had been exactly as Orion had predicted… and he felt violated. Slipping into his room, he felt all of the stress he’d built up during the party fall away at the sight of Zachary asleep in his bed. As much as he wanted to run to the bed and snuggle, he knew he needed to take a shower. Walking to the bathroom, he began undoing the leather wrapped around his arms. Once they were both set by the sink he got the larger, more intricate piece off and added it to the others, then tossed his pants and boxers before stepping out of his boots.

“Ah. Much better.”

He did enjoy the pressure of the leather and the marks that it made, but that didn’t mean he didn’t enjoy taking it off after several hours wearing it in an unpleasant atmosphere.  The shower did wonders to relax his body, but he rushed through it, as well as his nightly before-bed routine, in order to be able to slide into bed ten minutes later.

Because the lights had all been out besides a small lamp by the other door, he hadn’t noticed the little black teddy bear sitting on his pillow until he slid into bed. Holding it up, he smiled at its funny pout and set it next to him, a few inches from Zachary’s nose, then reached over to settle his hand atop the young man’s soft hair.

“Thank you for the present, Zachary.”

He thought he had been speaking quietly-enough as to not wake him, but the guy had evidently not been asleep for long because he was soon yawning and starting to sit up.

“Hey sweetheart, I’m sorry. You don’t have to get up.” Orion cooed as he tried to guide Zachary back to laying down, but the guy wouldn’t have it. It confused Orion, but he wasn’t going to force him to sleep, especially when his warm body stumbled into his arms.

If my heart could melt I’d be dead right now.

Orion let his hand rub up and down Zach’s back for a minute as the guy continued to try and snuggle closer and closer. When he finally stopped moving Orion leaned over and whispered against his ear. “Can I touch you, please?”

When Zach gave a faint nod Orion let his already-moving hand slip carefully beneath his shirt to continue rubbing against Zachary’s warm, smooth, bare skin. Such a simple thing, yet it felt like heaven. At first Orion could feel Zach’s muscles tense from his touch, but it only took him a few moments to relax again, making the older man smile.

“Hey Zachary?”

“Mm…?”

“Thank you for being here, and trusting me.”

“Mhm…”

Haha. Sleepyhead.

“Let’s get some rest, okay sweetheart?”

Zachary nodded against his chest, but when he moved his right hand something caught Orion’s attention.

What’s that?

Reaching up, he gently took the item from Zachary’s hand and squinted, trying to read the writing on it.

O… ri… on.

Eyes widening, Orion held up the gorgeous dark collar and just, stared. He’d never had his real name on a collar before. It had always been that M. Looking down at Zachary, he grinned when he saw the guy’s sleepy eyes staring up at him in confusion.

Poor baby is so tired.

“Did you get this for me, sweetheart?”

Zachary blinked, trying to wake himself up enough to be coherent. It wasn’t working that well.

“I god it.” He mumbled before resting his head back down against Orion’s chest with a content sigh. Orion squeezed him in a tight hug, then leaned back a tiny bit, leaving Zachary sitting up in his lap, swaying slightly.

“You would make me the happiest twenty-nine year ol— or, well, thirty year old in the world if you would allow me to put this beautiful collar on you.”

The cloudiness in Zach’s eyes seemed to clear a little and he gave Orion the most adorable, half-asleep grin. He didn’t get a verbal answer, but when Zachary leaned forward and his soft lips gently brushed against his cheek, Orion knew that come morning, Zach wouldn’t ask him to take the collar off this time. So, while they explored each others’ cheeks, foreheads, and noses with soft kisses, he slipped the collar around Zachary’s neck and fastened the clasp in the back.

The Start

So warm…

Zachary opened his eyes slowly, looking around but seeing nothing but darkness.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart. I’ve got you.”

He relaxed hearing Orion’s voice, but when he tried to move it felt like something was wrapped around his ankles and wrists.

“What’s going on? Orion?” He asked, voice quaking slightly from nervousness.

“You know, sweetheart. You’re mine now. You let me put a collar on you, so now we’re going to get down, to business, and very dirty.”

Jerking upright, Zachary searched the dim room, realizing immediately that he had just been dreaming. Panting heavily, he forced himself to begin taking deep, slow breaths. When his eyes finally landed on Orion, passed out on his back beside him, he let the rest of his panic slip away.

Just a bad dream. He wouldn’t do that.

As he worked on calming down, Zachary lifted his left hand to tug at the collar fastened around his neck. It was well-fitted, but not uncomfortable.

I have a collar on.

It was a funny thought at first, but when he remembered that it had Orion’s real name on it, not just an M, he grinned. He still didn’t know much about the lifestyle, but it meant so much more to him to have a collar with Orion’s real name on it instead of just an alias. Glancing sideways, he used the glow from the lamp near the storage door to look down at Orion.

The man was out cold, his upper chest bare, as it looked like the blanket had migrated down to rest around his lower torso.

He must work out a lot. There’s no way he got those muscles just from BDSM… I think.

Blushing, Zachary pushed that thought to the back of his mind and instead focused on Orion. His lips were slightly parted, allowing a near-mute snore to escape every few seconds. It was a cute sound coming from such a big guy. If he had to guess, he’d put Orion near one-ninety or two hundred pounds, but not a single bit of it was fat. That much he was sure of. 

Just to check…

He reached down, pressing his fingers against the faint indentations in Orion’s skin that the leather had left from earlier. It was already beginning to return to normal, but that didn’t stop Zachary from getting lost in tracing them along the man’s skin. When he finished with all of the indents he could see on Orion’s belly, he switched to the arm he had folded overtop the blanket. Apparently the leather that had been wrapped there had been done a little tighter, and Zachary easily found the lines with his fingertips. He was just finishing near Orion’s wrist when it slowly began to turn, the hand opening before its fingers wrapped around his own gently.

“Hey there, sweetheart.”

Orion’s words were nearly silent in the dark room, but they still drew Zachary’s attention like a little moth to a big flame. Without even thinking about it, Zach scooted against him until their hips pressed together, then laid down. Orion’s right arm came around him, helping him turn onto his side. Their bodies fit together nearly perfectly, and likely would be one hundred percent if he gained a couple pounds.

“Sorry for waking you.” Zachary whispered as he let his eyes slide closed. His head was settled atop Orion’s right shoulder, his taught muscle surprisingly comfortable. The man’s arm tightened slightly around him as a chuckle reverberated through his chest.

“Waking up to you touching me? I don’t think I mind.”

The joking tone in his voice made Zach grunt and turn to face away from him, but Orion didn’t let him get away with it for long. He didn’t pull him back against him, but instead rolled his body on top of Zach’s.

“Ah! Lemme up.”

Orion chuckled again, but being pinned by him made the vibrations rumble from his chest straight into Zachary’s back. Unable to help himself, he shivered and immediately hid his face in one of the soft pillows.

“Aww, so cute.” Orion cooed, making Zach’s face burn even more. Before he could try to squirm his way free Orion rolled off him. That gave the guy a chance to breathe a sigh of relief and relax as he watched Orion slide over to move his legs over the edge of the bed by the mini fridge. When he opened it the faint light from inside aided the small lamp in illuminating the room, but just long enough for him to reach inside and take out the package of strawberries he’d bought earlier. When he actually opened the package and popped one into his mouth, Zachary stared, then looked over his shoulder at a small clock on the nightstand.

Four.

“You’re eating fruit at four in the morning?”

Orion paused with a strawberry at his lips and glanced over at him… then shrugged and ate the entire thing. When he finished chewing and swallowed, he grabbed another and smirked at Zachary, holding it up.

“Do you like strawberries, Zachary?”

Sitting up, Zach nodded, licking his lips without realizing it as he stared at the little red fruit.

“If you would like some, you may come take some… however, if you will allow it, I think they might help us begin our new relationship with some very basic training.”

Zachary glanced down at the blanket his lower half was still beneath, worrying his hands with each other for a moment before looking back up at Orion with determination.

I can do this. Remember, he said he’ll never do anything I don’t want him to. What harm could come from just trying?

“O-okay.” He mumbled, trying his best to look like he wasn’t worried. He hadn’t even gotten a chance to read the book Orion had mentioned, but he knew the man wouldn’t just rush him into something he wasn’t ready for.

When Orion slid off the bed Zachary noticed, a bit late, that he was just wearing a pair of black silk boxers. Not wanting to stare… well, okay, maybe a little. But not wanting to get caught staring, out of curiosity only, of course, Zach slid from the other side of the bed to meet Orion near his closet. Instead of opening the door right away, the man looked down at him with a warm smile. “I’d like to just see how you react to some of the leather I normally wear. It’s customary, to a point, but I don’t mind if you end up not wanting to wear it. I would, however, like you to try it before you decide.”

That’s understandable.

“Okay. I don’t mind trying on some of your stuff.” He said, smiling nervously.

“Great. Also, another part of this is going to be positive and negative reinforcement.” He held up the strawberries, comfortably settled in their container. “If you do well, like stand still while I work and listen to what I say, you’ll get strawberries. Simple as that.”

Delicious strawberries just for standing still and listening? I can totally do that!

“Sure, that sounds good.” Zach said, honestly interested. The idea of being ordered around and punished wasn’t exactly appealing, but Orion didn’t seem like someone who would let the ability to command someone else get to his head.

“I’m glad. Let’s give it a try, then catch up on a bit more sleep before I have to get ready for work.”

Zachary nodded, turning when Orion opened the closet door and stepped inside, flicking the light on so that Zach could follow him without worrying about running into him. When they got inside Zachary took in the large area with more attention than he had previously. It was a rather large room, about half the size of Orion’s bedroom. There was normal clothing hung up on either side of the entrance, but the middle and back area had quite a bit of different leather items. Their color was mainly black, but there were a few dark brown, dark red, and one… oh!

“This one,” Zachary said as he carefully tugged a length of leather off a hanger and showed it to Orion with an eager smile. To his surprise, Orion seemed to hesitate, but then he smiled and nodded before kneeling down and reaching for the rope of leather. Zach handed it over right away.

“Hold out your left arm for me, sweetheart,” Orion said. Zachary obeyed immediately, holding still when Orion pressed one of the end pieces to the inside of his arm and began to wrap. He stopped after two loops, then looked up to meet his eyes. “Tell me if it gets too tight, okay? This isn’t supposed to be as tight as mine had been. It’s just to see how it feels to you.”

Zachary nodded, getting one back from Orion before the man continued to work. At a few points he felt like it was beginning to get too tight, but he finally broke his silence when it felt like the leather was pinching badly. “Th-that’s too tight.”

Orion stopped immediately and unwound the last three wraps, making Zachary sigh with relief. His skin was a little red where the second wrap had been, and Orion quickly began rubbing it with his thumb. “Good boy. Thank you for telling me.”

After a moment more of rubbing Orion reached into the container of strawberries and pulled one out, handing it up to Zachary. “Here, you earned it for being truthful.”

It seemed a bit odd, but Zach wasn’t going to argue with free strawberries. He took it with a quiet “Thank you,” then got busy nibbling at the delicious fruit while Orion continued to work on the leather. He finished after another minute, at the same time Zachary hesitantly finished his yummy strawberry.

“How does that feel, sweetheart?”

After licking his lips clean of berry juice, Zach flexed his hand, then arm. The leather tightened with the actions, coiling around his skinny arm. He thought it might be uncomfortable, which it was at first. What he didn’t expect, however, was the other sensation that came with it.

I can’t believe it, but he’s right. It’s constricting, but it’s also almost… reassuring?

He couldn’t quite put words to what he was feeling, but he was definitely not against the idea of wearing the leather now. “It feels kind of like what you said. Like it’s kind of helping me calm down a little.”

He thought the opposite might have been true, but it wasn’t.

“Would you like me to do the other arm?” Orion asked.

Zachary pursed his lips and looked around, noticing something that looked like what Orion had worn last night. He took it from its hanger and held it out to Orion. “I wanna try this.”

Orion looked surprised for a moment before he grinned and nodded, taking the item and standing. “Of course.” He replied as he slipped the leather over Zachary’s head, then began fastening the leather around his upper chest.

While the item Orion had worn last night buckled mainly on the belly and torso, the one Zach had picked, he noticed, fastened more on the chest. He didn’t mind though, it still held his attention as Orion worked on shortening the straps, then fastening them. He did feel his muscles flex a couple times when the man’s fingers brushed against his skin, but he forced himself not to move anymore than that. After the third strap was fastened Orion sat back on his heels and handed Zach another strawberry, then took one for himself.

“Mm,” they said together after a bite, grinning at the humor of thinking the same thing. The grins evolved into quiet chuckles, then full on laughter as Zach dropped and snagged another strawberry. The serious atmosphere had all-but disappeared as he downed the fruit, then went for another. Being intercepted by Orion’s hand wasn’t a surprise, but being flipped onto his back on the carpeted floor definitely was. He tried to get up, but the other man easily kept him down with just a hand on his chest.

“No fair,” Zach grumbled, pouting up at Orion.

“Ah ah. The first strawberry was earned, the second, however, was not.”

“I-I’ll earn it.” Zachary said nervously.

“Nope. Subs don’t take their rewards before they earn them.”

Swallowing, Zach looked past Orion to the ceiling.

“Zachary, look me in the eyes, please.”

It took him a minute to finally comply, and when he did manage to keep his gaze steadily locked onto Orion’s, his heart twisted in a sudden sadness he’d never felt in any situation. Without even thinking about it, Zachary practically yelled “I’m sorry!”

Orion seemed a bit taken aback, but when he noticed Zachary beginning to cry he didn’t hesitate to pull him into his arms. “Shhh, it’s okay.” Zach shook his head, messy hair rustling against Orion’s bare chest.

“Y-you’re upset,” he whispered against his skin.

He thought Orion might tell him that he wasn’t, that it was okay but to not do it again. For some reason, he was glad when the man ended up giving him a reassuring squeeze, then moved him to arms length and spoke. “I am upset. There are times for fooling around. Many of them, but when training a new sub, I take things very seriously because, sweetheart…” He reached over, gently running his thumb over Zachary’s lower, slightly trembling lip. “It can be dangerous when communication isn’t one hundred percent. I need to know that you will listen, and if you don’t, you need to know that a punishment will occur in most instances because I care for your safety.”

Zach nodded slowly, trying to force his mind to stop imagining all of the things Orion could do to punish him for stealing the strawberry.

“Remember, I want to make this as enjoyable for you as it will be for me. So, Zachary, what do you believe your punishment should be?” Orion asked as he carefully undid the leather on Zach’s arm.

Fidgeting after the piece of leather was removed, Zach looked down as his hands twisted together in his lap. He could only think of two things that would be negative to him right then, so he mumbled them both and hunched, waiting to hear which Orion would choose.

“U-um, n-no food f-for today or m-make me l-leave fo—” His words were cut off when he was snatched back into Orion’s arms and nearly smothered to death by his hug.

“That is never a punishment I will ever consider. Do you hear me, Zachary? Do not think of that again. I know we are taking this slow, but that is an order. I don’t want to hear those words from you ever again.”

Unable to talk because he was so focused on sniffling to keep his nose from running, Zachary just nodded. “Good boy.”

Feeling his body being lifted, Zach automatically wrapped his legs around Orion’s waist and let him carry him to the bed. He thought they might lay down to sleep again, his punishment perhaps that he couldn’t use the blanket, but when Orion reached over into the nightstand and fished out a small book, Zachary understood.

“Your punishment is to read this book, starting now, and then tell me exactly what you’ve learned from it tonight.”

Don’t Be Silly

Reading. It wasn’t his strong point. In fact, it worried him. Zachary kept it to himself, however, because telling Orion wouldn’t help either of them. He got comfortable against the pillows by the lamp and opened the book as Orion went back to sleep a few feet away.

Chapter One: Respect and a General Introduction to BDSM

While this book   will introduce   you to   the lifestyle of BDSM, there    are several  different basic aspects    that apply. An understanding   of these   are important    before continuing onto the next   several   chapters…

Zachary went through several pages about trust and being able to communicate well with your submissive or dominant partner. The book mentioned what Orion had already told him, about the possible dangers of not talking to each other when something might be wrong. The chapter was logical and he happily sped through it… or so he thought.

“Mm, good morning, Zachary.”

Hearing Orion’s voice had Zach looking over at him, then the clock.

S-seven!

I’ve been reading for almost three hours?

He knew he’d fallen asleep here and there, but to only get one chapter done?

“I forgot to take that leather off of you before bed, comere’ sweetheart.”

Unable to decline, Zachary folded an ear in the page for the second chapter and then set the book aside so that he could crawl over to Orion. Feeling the man’s fingers against his warm skin made Zach fidget, unintentionally drawing Orion’s curiosity with a few glances to meet his eyes before the item was finally tugged off over his head.

“There we are. Now then,” Orion said as he tossed the leather to the side, then carefully tugged Zachary into his lap. “What’s wrong?”

Nothing! He wanted to scream, but the chapter of the book he’d read so far chastised him for even considering the lie. Well, it wasn’t technically a lie. Nothing was really wrong, but perhaps, just not as right as he wanted it to be?

“How far did you get in the book, sweetheart?”

Uh oh. Uh, um. Darn it!

“I-I got to the second chapter.”

Orion’s expression changed for a moment, then was abruptly covered up by a small smile. But Zachary had seen it. The disappointment. He felt his shoulders hunch, but then remembered. I don’t have to be perfect. Without a second thought he lifted his head and forced his lower lip to stop trembling.

“I don’t read well, b-but I’ll finish the book by tonight!”

Orion’s smile became honest as he rustled Zach’s hair and hugged him to his chest. “Thank you for telling me, Zachary. This may sound rude, but I would honestly like to know if you would like to learn to read better? I would be glad to help you.”

Considering Orion’s tone, Zachary knew right away that the man wasn’t making fun of him for his lack of reading skills. But do I want to be taught by him? He wanted to learn, of course, but he was embarrassed to admit that he needed help. Even so, Orion was offering him something he couldn’t get on the streets unless he walked the seven blocks to the library each day… which had been time better spent searching for a job instead of reading books that wouldn’t put food into his belly or, someday, a roof over his head.

I have a full belly now and Orion has given me a roof to shield me from the weather.

Steeling himself, Zachary forced his eyes to meet Orion’s. “I want to learn how to read better, please.”

The man’s eyes lit up and he leaned over, nibbling at Zachary’s nose. “I need to start getting ready to help in the kitchen, as we’ve had someone unexpectedly quit yesterday, but I should have some time in between then and when we open to come back down. Maybe we can read the book together and I can help you whenever you feel like you need it?”

“Okay!” Zachary chimed, eager to get started, even though he’d have to wait until Orion came back later.

Wait a minute.

“Can I help in the kitchen?” He asked as Orion set him aside so that he could get up and head for the shower. The man paused by the bathroom door at Zach’s question, turning with a surprised but intrigued smile.

“I guess the cook wouldn’t mind an extra pair of hands. You don’t mind doing dishes or prep work?”

Zachary shook his head fervently and crawled to the edge of the bed where Orion met him to scoop him up. “Then I guess we’ve got a shower to take, hm?”

“Yeah,” Zach said happily, then paused.

Wait. Did he just say that we’ve got a shower to take? As in, together?

His thought was answered when Orion set him down in the shower stall, then climbed in and shut the door with a playful grin. “Let’s use this as a lesson while we’re getting clean, hm?”

A lesson in keeping our clothing on? He thought awkwardly as he leaned against the back wall. As if he’d read his mind, Orion quickly removed his clothes and tossed them over the shower door. Unable to keep his eyes from lowering, Zachary swallowed hard and tried to not focus on certain parts of the other man that seemed to be enjoying the attention.

“Zachary, this lesson will be simple. Very little of this lifestyle, to me, is about sex.”

Huh…?

When Orion just turned and got the shower going Zachary blinked in confusion. The water only hit his lower legs since he was in the back, or well, pants. They’re getting wet. Looking up, he noticed Orion holding up a washcloth that he’d already lathered with soap.

“I want you to get used to this. Just simple showering.”

I can do that. We’re just showering… I showered with a lot of guys in high school after P.E.

Remembering that made him a lot more comfortable with the situation, so he carefully removed his pajama pants, then straightened back up with a slightly nervous grin.

“There we go, here. Wash up while I wash my hair, then we’ll switch.”

Nodding, Zachary took the cloth and got busy scrubbing himself. Every few seconds he could feel eyes on him, but he didn’t chance looking up in fear of blushing even worse than he already was.

“May I wash your back, Zachary?”

The cloth slipped from his fingers but was snagged by Orion right before it could hit the tiled shower floor. The man’s chuckle followed the action, making Zach’s face heat as he looked up at him. He felt like he should say no, just because of the situation and how awkward it was. In fact, his instincts told him that this was a bad idea and to be weary of Orion.

You can say yes and still be careful. He hasn’t tied you up with the leather straps and is simply asking to wash your back. He told himself. “Okay…” he ended up whispering just loud enough for his words to be heard over the hum of the shower water.

It took him a few moments to get the strength to turn around, but Orion waited patiently with a smile on his face. His heart was racing when he pressed his palms against the cold tile wall, but the moment Zachary felt the warm washcloth against his skin, being guided by Orion’s strong yet gentle hand, he immediately began to relax. It felt as if he was giving him a massage at the same time he was washing his back. Without meaning to, he heard a quiet moan slip from his lips as he leaned his forehead against the cool tile.

“Feels good, sweetheart?”

Zachary nodded, slowly turning once he felt the washcloth finally leave his skin.

“I’m glad. Did you know, you have an adorable mole beneath your right should blade.”

“I do?” He questioned, automatically trying to look behind him, though he quickly realized that it was impossible. Duh. When Orion nodded Zach chuckled, then grabbed the washcloth. “U-um, can I?” He mumbled, holding up the washcloth with a hesitant smile.

Orion obviously knew what he meant, but was going to make him complete his full question before answering. Forcing his embarrassment aside, Zachary clenched his fist around the cloth and straightened his shoulders. “I want to wash your back, too, can I?”

Seeing the man’s face light up with a dazzling smile told Zachary that he’d definitely asked the question right, and made Orion happy. “Yes, I would love that, Zachary.”

It had been a long, long time since he’d had someone was his back so gently. It was adorable, but it wouldn’t get the job done. “Harder please, sweetheart. Don’t worry about hurting me. I promise I can take it.”

He let a joking tone slip into his words and, to his surprise, got his backside pinched for it!

“You did not just do that, Mr. I’m Embarrassed to Show my Master my Body!” he chided, whirling on Zachary, scaring the guy with the sudden action. Realization seemed to dawn on his face after a moment, turning it completely cherry red. Zach raised his hands and backed up when Orion stepped forward, pinning him without touching him, against the back wall.

As much as Orion was enjoying watching Zachary so flustered, the fact that he had actually tried to initiate some type of play was very important, and he needed to show him that. Unfortunately, he knew that even though he wanted to reciprocate and pinch Zach’s adorable butt in return, it wouldn’t go over well. He needed something less sexual, but still physical.

Hmm.

His eyes widened a fraction when he figured it out. “Hey sweetheart?”

“Y-yeah?” Zachary stuttered out.

“Are you ticklish?”

The sudden look of horror on his boy’s face made Orion smirk evilly. “Revenge time.”

With no way out of the shower besides getting past him, Orion knew that he was going to get his revenge, too. He just wasn’t expecting how insanely ticklish his new sub really was! Zack squealed and jumped into the corner, then quickly slid to the floor as he struggled to hide his armpits, then belly, then feet! Oh boy were his feet ticklish! While it was fun, he did have to dodge several accidental kicks, and by the time two landed on his left arm he decided to give the poor guy a break.

Unfortunately, tickling Zachary had been the worst decision he’d made so far… because he couldn’t take his eyes off the guy as he lay sprawled out on his shower floor, panting and soaked from the cooling shower water with a flushed chest and cheeks. His length was immediately at attention, draining a good portion of the blood he needed to keep his thoughts logical, and not involving taking Zachary where he lay. Dammit, seeing that collar snug around his neck isn’t making it any easier.

“…Master?”

Jerking his mind back into focus abruptly, Orion blinked away the rest of the blur in front of his eyes and let them meet Zachary’s worried ones. “What did you just call me?”

With wide, worried eyes Zachary pursed his lips and sat up and looked down at the tiled floor, then back up after a few quiet breaths. “You were j-just staring a-and I said your name three times but you didn’t respond. S-so I said what the book calls d-dominants to try and get you to snap out of it.”

He couldn’t stop staring again, mouth agape.

He’d just called me…

When Zach started looking around worriedly Orion snapped back to himself and, to the surprise of his male ego, giggled and lunged. He grabbed Zachary around his chest and jumped up, swinging the guy in a circle as he yelled, “You called me Master!”

He intended to complete the circle, then kiss the guy a few times before he finally had to step out and get dressed, but he accidentally hit Zach’s foot against the shower door, smacking it open and making them both startle. Orion set Zachary down immediately and dropped to his knees to check his foot. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry.”

As Orion fumbled with his foot, trying to see if he’d hurt him, Zachary snickered quietly, drawing his attention up. “It’s okay, Orion. The door opened so it took most of the hit, I’ll be fine.”

Just to prove his point Zachary set his foot back down and added weight, only scrunching his eyes a little with the ache. “See? No big deal.”

Orion didn’t like it. He wanted Zach to go to bed immediately and rest with his foot up and ice on it, but as he stood up, he could tell that his boy wouldn’t let him get away with that scenario.

“You swear? You’re okay?” He added, reaching out to gently touch his fingers to Zachary’s cheek.

“Yes, now, since you’ve already got your hair washed…” Zach grinned and ducked behind Orion, then nudged his back until he stepped out of the shower. He then shut the door, effectively telling him that he was now banned from the shower.

“I need to wash my hair without being tickled and swung into doors, Master.”

Orion had to take a deep breath when Zachary called him Master again, but he kept himself from reentering the shower by shoving a toothbrush in his mouth. When he finished scrubbing his teeth and gums raw, along with his tongue, then spit and rinsed with mouthwash, Orion finally had enough control to speak again.

“I’m going to bring some of our groceries to the kitchen and make us breakfast before we need to start working. You made me very happy calling me Master, so I’d like to cook you what you’d like for breakfast. So pick a few things and I’ll have them ready by the time you get to the kitchen.”

Zachary didn’t hesitate to let him know exactly what he wanted with an excited reply. “Bacon, sausage, and waffles!”

Chuckling, Orion opened the door to the bathroom and headed for his closet to get dressed. “Got it, sweetheart. I’ll meet you in the kitchen. Don’t think of me too much while in the shower or it might not be hot when you get there.”

Before Zachary could respond Orion ducked into his closet and got dressed in record time, then grabbed his boots and ran out the door, laughing to himself.

Too Much

“Hey Orion, don’t tell me what the gossip train is saying is true and that you’ve finally gotten yourself another sub?”

Orion rolled his eyes, having just walked through the double doors to the kitchen. He wasn’t surprised that the black-haired cook, David, was already interrogating him, either. The man had been one of his first tries in BDSM but they quickly realized that their versions didn’t quite mesh. David liked pain, and Orion wasn’t one to dish that out, no matter how much his sub wanted it.

“I know it wounds you deeply, but I have,” Orion replied, unable to keep his excitement out of his voice for even a second. Zackary had called him Master, so it was official! Even though he hadn’t even read the book about the basics yet, his backside was totally owned by him!

Mine! He chimed in his head as the cook chuckled and stirred the contents of a pot.

“I’m getting the broth for later ready but since the dishwasher left last night and Xena usually helps with prep, you’re gonna have to try and cover both.” David said, frustrated.

“Let me guess, Xena’s got a hangover and can’t manage to get out of bed? And she’s likely blaming me for it.” Orion said as he got out a pan after setting the food he’d brought in down next to the stove.

“Exactly. You know you could just use some of our eggs and bacon for breakfast if you want, you didn’t need to bring that stuff.” David said as he nodded to the food Orion had set down.

“It’s a reward for my boy and I want to have bought it. Or at least most of it, I need to steal your sugar, milk, and flour.” Orion said as he dug through the giant industrial fridge and pulled the three items out. 

“So you’re basically paying for half of the meal because you were too lazy to bring the rest of the ingredients in two trips?” 

“Exactly,” Orion replied with a smirk as he got busy mixing batter for the waffles, then got one into the iron before setting the meat to cook in the heated pan. It smelled delicious, and Orion’s stomach was definitely glad that he’d brought enough for both him and Zachary to eat their fill.

“So, how’s Domino treating you?” He asked as he flipped the waffle iron so the other side could cook.

When his friend didn’t reply and instead Orion caught him shifting his collar a bit, he turned and walked over. If they hadn’t been together previously he probably would have gotten away with it, but Orion didn’t hesitate to carefully tug the collar up.

“David…”

His friend tugged the collar back down over the healing ligature marks and shrugged. “Dammit David, I know you like it rough, but there’s a limit!” Orion said, stress straining his voice as he tried not to shout. He knew getting upset was only going to worry David and push him away, so he forced himself to take several deep breaths and tended the food he was making before returning his attention to him.

He wanted to say something, and opened his mouth several times to do so, but when no words came out Orion ended up just walking over and slipping his key into the man’s jean pocket. The gesture was understood and neither man reacted as Orion headed to Xena’s room upstairs to snag the spare key. She was asleep, thankfully, so he just grabbed it and bolted before the sleeping lion could wake and neuter him.

By the time he returned to the kitchen Zachary was there with the most adorable faded pink apron on and his short hair tied back in a barely-there ponytail. Oh my god I want to kiss him. Biting back that thought, Orion walked over and stole a simple peck to his boy’s cheek before noticing that he had his hands deep in a sink full of suds.

“I’ll leave you to that, sweetheart.” Orion said as he turned to tend their breakfast… only to see half of it missing. That’s my boy. Shaking his head with a grin, Orion walked over to the prep station and got busy on the vegetables David had already set out and washed. His mind was abuzz with lots of thoughts but he kept them to himself as he worked, not wanting to bother either of the other two in the room.

It wasn’t even an hour before Zachary was finished and beside him, helping cut the vegetables at a surprising pace. “Damn boy, do you have a job?”

Orion jerked his head to the side to see Xena walking through the kitchen doors. He knew what was coming, but that meant Zachary would have a shift different from his own, making their time together drop considerably! He didn’t like it, not a bit. However, he did know that Zachary wouldn’t just let him continue to support him without trying to get a job. Heck, he’d been trying to get or keep one for three years, it would be absolutely unacceptable of him to tell him that he couldn’t have the one Xena was likely to offer him.

Zachary turned to her when she walked over to them and, knowing better, Orion stepped aside. Xena immediately grabbed Zach’s hands and cupped them in hers with the biggest, most creepy grin he’d seen in awhile. “Twelve an hour plus three free meals a week sound good to you?”

When his boy turned to him with a dazzling, wide grin, Orion couldn’t help but scoop him up into his arms and kiss him. “I think it sounds good, how about you, Zachary?”

The second he was set down Zach turned to Xena and nodded like a bobblehead on an off-roading vehicle. “Yes! Score!” Xena shouted before mussing up Zach’s hair and sending a shot of jealousy straight through his body. “You start right now! I’ll pay for the hour or whatever you already worked. You’ll be a dishwasher and when David needs you, you’ll help with prep, too.”

Zachary continued to nod, his eyes beginning to glass over with unshed tears of happiness. Seeing him so happy was like a balm to any stress Orion had felt over the past week. Or hell, month. My boy is so happy! While Xena often drove him nuts, and likely would do so to Zachary, too, right now she was Orion’s new favorite person. Of course, after Zach.

“Alright then! Keep at it and I might just force your boyfriend to wear tight leather later for you,” she said, making Orion roll his eyes and Zachary blush. When Xena left a moment later Zachary turned back to him and lunged for another tight hug that Orion was happy to take!

“I got a job! Orion, I got a job!”

Sharing in his boy’s excitement, Orion spun him around, careful of any shower doors in the vicinity as to not smack his foot for a second time. “I’m so proud of you, sweetheart. Xena’s a picky person when it comes to hiring and you definitely helped her get out of a sticky situation so I think she already likes you.”

“I hope so! I’m going to be her best dishwasher ever!” He said excitedly, making Orion nod in support. Such a positive outlook even with a simple, boring job. Sure he was getting paid more than minimum, but that was how Xena was. She never let her employees go without when she could afford to pay them better. That said, he had taken pay cuts and raises in the past when times were hard or plentiful, so it was random but appreciated. No matter what though, they never got lower than minimum wage, and rarely got down to that.

When he gave Zach another squeeze he noticed David’s expression a second before he turned back to the broth he was tending. His expression reflected so many emotions that stung Orion’s heart, but the one that was most prominent, and should never be there when you have a dominant, was need.

I can’t just keep quiet, even though I know he wants me to. It’s been three weeks and while he was smiling and excited at the beginning, the last week has just been bruise after bruise and nothing but fake smiles.

He knew he had to do something, but with Zachary now, it was risky. Not to mention he would likely be seen as moving in on another dominant’s sub… a very aggressive dominant. Not that Orion couldn’t handle Domino, but he preferred to keep fighting out of his life as much as possible. He’d had more than enough of it while doing drugs and being stupid. He didn’t want it anywhere near him again.

Sighing, he looked down at Zach and gently began walking backward, tugging him along until they stopped by the far side of the kitchen by the walk-in freezer. He then leaned over and began whispering in Zachary’s ear. “There is something going on with my friend, David, that I can’t overlook. He’s a submissive who has an aggressive dominant, but the man is too much for him. Is it alright if I try to intervene?”

“O-of course!” Zach said in a hushed shout, making Orion’s love for him grow to new heights. You have the heart of a lion and the compassion of a saint, sweetheart.

“Thank you, Zachary. I’m going to steal him for a few minutes, can you continue to work on the prepping and watch the stock he’s got simmering?” When Zachary nodded Orion pressed a soft kiss to his hair and walked over to David, setting a hand on his shoulder before leaning over to whisper. The man wasn’t happy, but thankfully Orion convinced him to walk out of the kitchen with him and to his room for a few minutes.

The moment he got David inside and the door shut the guy turned on him, which was completely expected and honestly, understandable. He wouldn’t want someone elses’ dominant or sub walking up to him for a pep talk, so he really did understand, but this was important. He easily dodged the simple punch aimed for his chest, then caught the next one with a frown. Instead of releasing it so that David could attack again, he used it to pull the man against him and into an extremely strong hug. It was far too tight for something he’d give Zachary, or really anyone else, but he knew David needed the attention, and also the pain.

While Orion refused to hurt him like a normal aggressive dominant would, he did give him what little pain he could muster for him. At first it didn’t seem to do anything but frustrate the guy further, but after another minute he heaved out a stressed groan and let his head fall onto Orion’s chest. Not wasting a second, Orion moved so that he could nuzzle the guy’s dark hair, then began rubbing his back soothingly.

“Dammit, Orion. I’m older than you, I don’t need a darn hug from a kid.”

Even though he said that, David didn’t bother struggling to get away. “By six months, but you’re acting younger than Zachary right now.”

David rolled his eyes and Orion grinned, sitting down on his bed and tugging David into his lap, whether the guy liked it or not. And he didn’t, but oh well.

“You got yourself a pretty sub this time, Orion, but you know people are going to target him as soon as they figure out that that’s your real name on his collar.”

He knew that, but it wasn’t something to worry about at that moment. David was trying to change the subject and Orion refused to take the bait. “I want you to stay here for tonight.”

The “Hell no!” he knew was coming did, but he wasn’t giving the guy a choice. He was a dominant, and even if he wasn’t an aggressive one, he sure as hell wouldn’t hold back an order if it would help his friend. “You are staying here tonight, and if Domino has anything to say about it then he can come to me.”

David glared at him, but anger was only half of the emotion he could see in his eyes. The other part was fear. “Dav, take a day off from him and stay with Zach and I. I already asked Zachary if he was okay with it and he just wants you safe.”

“Your kid doesn’t even know me,” David replied with a grunt, making Orion chuckle as he finally loosened his hold a little. “No, he doesn’t. Hell, I’ve only met him a few days ago and already I’ve got him collared.”

His friend nodded at that, then leaned back slightly and grinned at him. “I have a feeling this one’s going to be what none of the rest of us could for you. He already seems starstruck, even though he doesn’t seem to understand what he’s really doing yet.”

That got Orion to openly laugh. “You hit the nail on the head. I feel like he belongs by my side, submissive or not, I need to care for him.”

For the first time in a week Orion saw David sneak in a small, real smile.

“Yeah, I can see it now. You’re going to be whipped like nothing else… and you’re going to love every leathery inch of it.”

Plus One

“Hey, Orion’s brat!”

Zachary jumped, tossing the top of a carrot in the air he’d been cutting at. It came down with a thunk on top of his head, but his attention was completely focused on David as he stormed back into the kitchen.

“Yes sir!” He answered automatically, then blushed when the guy rolled his eyes and smirked.

“You’re my new slave, and it’s even better because you’re Orion’s new babe. So, I’m gonna make you sweat before I return you to him.”

Zachary wasn’t really sure what to think of his words, but he quickly understood the sweating part as he was put to work! David had him cutting onions for fifteen minutes straight, then washing and cutting mushrooms for another twenty before he went on to pineapple. He did every single task as fast as he could, but also carefully. He knew that cutting himself would only hinder his ability to work, so he had to pay attention.

“Open your mouth.”

The order took him by surprise. He opened his mouth without thinking… and got a piece of pineapple promptly shoved into it. The fruit was incredibly tart and sweet, making his lips pucker for a moment before he chewed, then swallowed. “Mmm.”

“Hey, what are you shoving in my boy’s mouth, Dav?” Orion grumbled as Zach saw him walk in with a load of dish towels in his arms. Ah, he must have been getting them from the laundry. No wonder he hadn’t returned when David had.

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” David replied with a waggle of his eyebrows. Zachary blanched, understanding what David was implying. “N-no! I-it wasn’t. He didn’t. I didn’t put his dick in my mouth!”

He’d run up to Orion as he half-shouted, half-cried his words. Then he realized what he had said and his face turned from white to cherry red. He was afraid to look at either of the men after what he’d just blurted out, but there was no way he could just run away from the situation, either.

Crap. 

Well, at least he didn’t have to make himself look up, because Orion had his hand beneath his chin in seconds, lifting his face until their eyes could meet. The look on his face was that of utter shock. “Sweetheart, I didn’t know you knew that word.”

Oh my god. He thinks I’m an innocent angel? Zach thought to himself as Orion began to break his mask of shock into one of uncontrollable humor.

Grumbling under his breath, Zach spun around and began tugging at the button on his jeans. “Yeah, it’s the awesome thing between my legs, wanna see, David?”

“Aw hell yes!” The guy shouted, right before Orion snagged Zachary from behind and lifted him up like an unneutered dog trying to claim dominance over a poor sofa pillow.

“This is mine, no can has!” Orion growled next to his ear, making Zach shiver a little. He sounded possessive but he could also hear the joking tone in his voice.

“Come on boys, up and at em! I wanna see the prep done in thirty minutes so the cleaning crew can scrub this place for their once a month contract!” Xena shouted as she ducked her head in. Seeing Zachary in Orion’s arms, she rolled her eyes. “Okay, well, down and at em. Put the poor guy down Orion and get busy. You’ll scare him away if you glue yourself to him so much and I can’t afford to lose my new employee so soon.”

He was set down immediately and they both got busy doing what David directed them to. Xena left shortly after, and thankfully, they finished on time. After establishing that he would be back to help in the kitchen later that night while Orion worked in his area, they headed back down to his room. Zachary was still giddy after having gotten a job so after five minutes Orion tossed the book they were trying to read together aside.

“You’re certainly hyper right now.” Orion chided with a grin, mussing up Zach’s hair before he was tackled in a hug against the pillows. “I can’t focus on reading when I’m so happy,” he mumbled, closing his eyes as he snuggled against Orion’s chest. His heart jumped when a firm hand settled on his hair, then began to soothingly pet.

“Would you like to train a little instead, sweetheart?”

Zachary thought about it for a moment, loving the attention but also wanting to work on what Orion wanted in the long run. After a minute he slowly nodded, but didn’t try to move yet.

“Do you like this kind of attention, Zachary?” Orion whispered against his hair as he continued to gently run his fingers over his hair.

Zachary nodded against his chest in response, getting a deep chuckle from him that reverberated through his body pleasantly. “I’m glad. I will remember that.”

He continued to stroke his hair for another few minutes before reaching down and tapping his bottom, getting a surprised squeak out of Zach as he hurried off the bed. He walked over to the closet, figuring that the training Orion would want to do would have something to do with the leather in there.

“Not there, sweetheart. Get back in bed, I want to work on some training here.” Orion said as he sat up and swung his legs over the edge, then patted the spot beside him. Zachary immediately moved to sit next to him, putting his hands in his lap as he glanced up at Orion curiously.

“What are we doing on the bed?” He questioned, his voice holding just a hint of worry. Orion smiled at him and push himself back near the center of the bed. Assuming that he should follow, Zach moved, stopping and sitting down next to where Orion did.

“Alright. This is technically a simple lesson, nothing big to remember. It’s more focused on that first chapter you read. Trust.”

Zachary nodded, glad that he wouldn’t have to focus too much, as he wasn’t that great at it when he was excited.

“Alright, I’m going to start slowly taking your clothing off, and I want you to tell me when you begin to get stressed for any reason, okay?”

Did right then count? Because he was immediately worried about sex. They were in a bed, after all.

“I-I’m stressed.” Zach mumbled, looking down awkwardly before forcing his eyes to meet Orion’s.

“Alright, good boy. Why are you stressed?”

He could feel his ears burning but forced out an answer. “We-we’re on a-a bed and y-you want me to get undressed.”

There was quiet for a short moment before Orion scooted closer and put a gentle on his shoulder, squeezing reassuringly. “That’s just it, sweetheart. The lesson is on trust, so you need to trust me as your dominant, that I won’t take advantage of you, even if it would be far easier to do so while you are naked in my bed. And I need to trust you, that you will listen to me and understand that I mean you no harm.”

Okay. That makes sense.

He was still a little worried, but Orion’s explanation was logical. “Okay.” Zach whispered as he fiddled with the hem of the shirt he was wearing.

“Good boy!” Orion said enthusiastically. Zachary smiled and held still when Orion slowly reached over, placing his hands atop his own and squeezing softly. They remained that way until Zach was able to calm himself down completely. He then retracted his hands, leaving Orion’s alone against his shirt.

“I’m going to start sweetheart. If you become stressed, you tell me, okay?”

Zachary licked his lips nervously and nodded. He was surprised when Orion didn’t actually start, bringing his eyes up to meet the other man’s in question. “There you are.”

Darn, he had realized that I was stressed without me needing to say it.

Giving himself a mental pep talk, Zach stuck his tongue out, making Orion chuckle before the older man carefully tugged the fabric of his shirt up and over his head. He lifted his arms to help, then watched as Orion tossed the clothing aside.

“I’m very happy to see that your ribs are slowly beginning to disappear from view.”

Not really knowing how to respond, Zachary smiled. He was glad, too. It felt good to have meat returning to his bones after years. And Orion’s the one who made that possible. A new surge of trust swam through his veins and he straightened, getting a surprised look from Orion.

“I trust you, Master.”

The beaming smile that was beginning to become familiar flourished on Orion’s face at Zach’s words, making him know immediately that he’d made the right decision. When Orion reached over to gingerly undo the button on his jeans Zachary moved onto his back, making it easier for him to slide the pants off once he got the button undone and the zipper down. It felt incredibly awkward being undressed by someone else, but Orion didn’t touch anything besides his clothing and faint brushes of skin as he worked. When all he had left on were his socks and boxers Orion stopped and they shared a smile.

“You have a gorgeous body, sweetheart.”

Zachary thought it might feel weird to hear that while lying on his back in the man’s bed, but he was actually feeling quite relaxed. Orion had done nothing but exactly what he’d said he would.

“Th-thank you,” he replied, honestly feeling that Orion was telling the truth.

“I think we’ll end the lesson here. You did amazing, so you deserve a reward. What would you like, Zachary?”

I want you to be happier.

“Um…”

He thought about asking for another strawberry, as he knew they hadn’t finished them last night, but he just couldn’t get his previous thought out of his head. Sitting up, he looked into Orion’s calm eyes and took a deep, calming breath before speaking.

“I think…” God, he couldn’t understand how, but he just couldn’t think of giving himself a reward that would be better than finding some way to make Orion happier. “What do you want, Orion?”

The man’s eyes widened slightly, then he tilted his head with a small smile. “What do you mean, sweetheart?”

“I-I mean, I think I want my reward…” Reaching up, Zach tugged at his hair for a moment before Orion grabbed his wrists and gently made him stop. “What’s wrong, Zachary? You can tell me.”

“I just don’t understand, b-but I want my reward to make you happier.”

Orion glanced over Zach’s shoulder toward the door, then back to meet his eyes before leaning over. “You know what would make me really happy right now?” He whispered. “What?” Zachary whispered back, eager but also a little nervous.

“It would make me a very happy man if you would go grab David, who just sneaked in here, and bring him over to the bed so that we can hug all of his sadness away.”

Zachary was a little surprised, and slightly embarrassed since he was in his boxers, but he did exactly as told and walked over to an apprehensive-looking David. The guy seemed to understand that trying to run from Orion’s orders was useless, because he didn’t fight Zachary at all when he took his hand and tugged him over to the bed, and even climbed in of his own accord.

“Good boy, Zachary. Come here, Dav.” Orion said sternly, not leaving room to argue as he opened his arms and beckoned them both, with one hand extended to Zach and the other to David. After giving David a reassuring smile, Zachary clambered into Orion’s waiting arm, soon feeling David move in beside him as Orion joined his arms together and squeezed.

“Good boys, so well behaved.”

“Thank you, Master,” Zachary replied as he nuzzled against Orion’s chest happily. David remained quiet for several seconds before he rested his head against the other side of Orion’s chest and let out a deep sigh of relief. “I am glad you are pleased, Master Orion.”

Annoyances

Working in the kitchen during actual business hours was intense! Zachary had worked at random fast food restaurants when he was a little younger, but nothing compared to a fully functioning restaurant and bar. The drink glasses were taking a good amount of time, but each time he’d get those clean a load of dishes would come through. He wouldn’t complain though, because he was getting paid and even though David bossed him around left and right, what he was told to do was simple and completed in a timely manner.

“Take ten, kid.” David said as he finished wit a particularly large order. Zachary smiled and nodded, tossing his dish washing gloves aside and grabbing the plate David had made him while working on the big order. Yeah, he was using one of his free weekly meals already, but Xena said she would need him till early morning to help with cleaning the glasses at the bar, so he couldn’t afford to be hungry and accidentally break any of the glass as he washed it.

Grabbing the big plate of chicken Parmesan, he sidled his way up onto a stool left in the kitchen specifically for quick food breaks. He was highly enjoying his, too. “You are a god cook!” Zachary said after finishing a mouthful of chicken.

“Finally someone who understands that I’m too awesome for this mortal realm.”

Zachary chuckled along with David as he continued to work on his food. For the next five minutes that’s all he was focused on, loving the flavors, and of course, filling his belly. He’d only asked for a half-portion, as he didn’t want to accidentally forget his leftovers if he wasn’t able to eat everything right away. Wasting food was definitely not okay. When he was just about finished the door to the kitchen swung open, drawing their attention to it. Zachary wasn’t sure who the man was that came in, but after a quick glance toward David, he immediately realized who it likely was.

The large man, dressed in head-to-toe black leather, strode right over to David with a sinister smirk on his face. Before either of them could even get a word out the guy was fisting his hands in David’s short hair. Judging from the look on David’s face, he wasn’t interested in the pain, even though the man now claiming his mouth didn’t seem to care. What really worried Zachary though, was the flailing of David’s hands as he tried to gain purchase somewhere. He’s going to burn himself with the things on the stove!

Knowing that he wouldn’t be of any use in the situation, considering the guy was easy twice his size, Zach bolted for the door and into a horde of people milling about. The main diners that came for dinner were already heading out or getting ready to party, so he had to be careful and dodge around person after person until he squeezed his way free of the crowd over by the entrance.

“George!”

The large, surly man turned his attention to Zachary with a slightly raised brow. “Yes, Zachary?”

“There’s someone in the kitchen bothering David.” He stammered out hurriedly, knowing that George didn’t have much patience when it came to holding conversations.

“That is his dominant that just came in, Zachary. They are together and he enjoys being bothered.”

With that George turned and began checking ID’s again, but Zach knew he couldn’t just let it go. “Please George, just go check! David didn’t look happy when the guy grabbed his hair and his arms were flailing and he nearly grabbed the hot pans several times!”

Visually getting frustrated, George checked three more ID’s before turning to Zachary with a glare. “Fine.” He looked behind him and motioned for someone. A young guy who was carrying a platter of empty glasses hurried over. George took the tray and nodded to the line waiting just outside. “Check ID’s. I’ll be right back.”

The guy seemed surprised, but didn’t dare argue with the hulking man as he took his spot just outside and began working. That left George to stomp his way through the swarm of people he so highly detested most nights, Zachary hot on his heels. He wasn’t a people person. He was a ‘get the hell out of my face’ person. Which made him perfect for his bouncer job. Pushing into the kitchen doors was a relief to the thundering music and sweaty bodies inside, but what he saw was not what he’d expected. Domino grabbing at David was expected, but when George lowered his gaze to the smaller guy’s pant leg, noting the pot already spilled on the floor, he knew that this had already gone too far.

“Domino, leave, or I will make you. You have worn out your welcome for the night.”

Both him and David looked up, and the pain on the smaller man’s face hurt Zachary’s heart. His entire face was red and sweat beaded on his brow, telling him that he was likely hurt, and not in a pleasurable way.

“What are you talking about? He’s my submissive and he loves pain. All I’m doing is getting him ready for later tonight.”

George remained standing tall, not even bothering to bat an eyelash at the man’s words. “I could care less what the two of you do after closing, but because it is affecting his work, you need to leave, now.”

Zachary held his breath, watching as David’s face got paler and paler. He’s really hurt.

“Tsk, fine! I’ll be back to pick him up the second his shift ends.” Domino growled before shoving David as he turned and left, not even realizing, or at least caring, that his boyfriend fell to the floor. Zach began to run toward him but George cut him off, grabbing his hand as he fished his phone out with the other and dialed. “Hello Xena? Yeah, we’ve had an accident in the kitchen and I need to take David to the hospital. He’ll be fine, but I need someone to cover for him for the rest of the night. Dinner service should be over any minute now so just someone who can do apps will be fine.”

There was a mumble on the other end, then he hung up and shoved the phone back in his pocket, releasing Zachary at the same time. “Go work on the dishes. You fluttering around him won’t help. Save Xena’s ass tonight and get those glasses and plates clean so that she can be sure the overnight crowd gets what they order fast.”

“Oh, right! I’m on it!”

Dammit all. Resigned to a night of babysitting, George grabbed David and hurried out the door, holding him whether he liked it or not. Either way, the guy seemed to be in too much pain to really bother with words anyways. Good. 

After getting him situated in his black Honda, George slid into the driver’s side and sped toward the hospital ten blocks away. He could tell that David was trying to hold back cries of pain, and he was grateful. He didn’t do tears, and he sure as hell didn’t do comfort. When he pulled into the parking lot he wasted no time in getting David back out of the car, then carried him right into the emergency room.

“W-wait,” David begged in a hushed tone… which George ignored. The emergency room was thankfully quiet so he had no trouble getting a room and the promise of a doctor within a few minutes.

“George, please, I need to go!”

Can’t you just go back to being quietly in pain?

“No, you need to be seen by a doctor. Unless you forgot, you just had boiling water dumped on your leg.”

He was going to dismiss anything else the guy said, but then he noticed him trying to hide something in his lap.

Dammit. Creepy subs and their pain.

Grumbling under his breath, George tugged off his large leather jacket and tossed it to David. At first he seemed confused, but then a light came on in his eyes and he quickly jerked the jacket around his shoulders and over his lap. Just in time, too, because the doctor strolled in seconds later.

“Hello, David?”

David nodded, swallowing as he shifted the jacket a little more, getting his arms in the sleeves.

“Your friend said that you got burned pretty badly from boiling water. So, let’s take a look.”

The doctor pulled over a stool on wheels and sat down, a pair of scissors in his hand. “Can I cut these pants? I can roll them up or have you remove them, but I can see the burn from the revealed part at your ankle and can tell you that It’s going to hurt much worse with the second or third option.”

“Cut the pants,” David tried not to hiss, shaking a little from the pain.

“Alright, just take a deep breath, I’ll go fast.”

He did just that, holding his breath as the doctor hurried to cut away his lower pant leg. “There we go.” The man murmured before he whistled quietly and looked up at David. “Did you soak this in cool water, or do anything else after it happened? It doesn’t seem like it…”

David shook his head as a bead of sweat rolled down his forehead to meld and fall with a tear.

“Alright, it looks like it’s close to second degree in some places, so I’m going to wrap it with cool cloth for a few minutes so it can cool your skin,” the man said as he got out some blue bandages and wet them in the sink, then squeezed out any excess water. As he began wrapping the burn David forced himself to stay quiet, his hands gripping the sheets until his knuckles were white. “We’ll leave these on for a few minutes, then I’ll remove them and add a salve to help keep infection away and also begin the healing. It will need to be reapplied every eight to twelve hours, and you will need to keep it out of the shower when you bathe.”

Since David seemed preoccupied trying not to scream as the doctor’s fingers moved around his leg, George answered. “Okay. He’ll be careful of that.”

“Good. You’re all wrapped up, so just sit here and try not to move your leg for a few minutes. I’ll be back soon.”

Once the doctor was gone David fell back onto the bed and groaned loudly, flinging his arm over his mouth to stifle a sob. For once, George wasn’t annoyed by someone else’s tears. Mainly because David’s were truthful, as he had been burned before doing simple things and knew it stung for awhile. He couldn’t imagine having half his leg boiled and not crying out. That’s the only reason he bothered to reach over and slide his hand into the one David had clutching the sheets on the bed. His grip was surprisingly strong but George didn’t mind.

The doctor returned a couple minutes later with a container George figured was the burn salve. He quickly unwrapped the wet cloth and then warned David before beginning to apply the medicine. George allowed David to keep holding his hand throughout the whole process until his leg was rebandaged and he was ready to go.

“You’re all done. Would you like me to get you crutches?”

George eyed David, noticing his body shaking and the exhaustion in his eyes. “Yes, but I’ll carry them and him out.”

The doctor nodded and told them to go ahead and pay at the front desk. George thanked him, then carefully got David into his arms and walked up to the receptionist’s counter. He already knew what David had for insurance because Xena provided it through their job, so he gave the woman the name, then got the number of his plan from David.

“Alright, your deductible will be two-hundred.”

David tried to reach for his wallet, but George already had his own out and was handing it to the woman. “I’ve got two hundreds in there, grab them please.”

She did as told, removing the money since his hands were full, then gave him back the wallet so he could put it back in his back pocket. “Here’s your receipt, thank you and I hope things go well.”

He took the item and added it to his pocket, thanked the woman, then walked out with David’s crutches and medicine in one hand, and David balance in his other arm.

“I’ll pay you back…” David mumbled near his ear, making George shake his head. “Xena will pay us back, kid. Workman’s comp, remember?”

He felt David chuckle weakly and let a slight grin slip onto his lips for a second before it vanished. Since he didn’t hear anything else from David, George carefully got him into his seat and buckled in, then started driving back to the club. He managed to get caught at nearly every red light on the way there, eventually making his eyes wander over to check on David.

Oh boy.

The guy was completely out cold snuggled in his jacket. He wasn’t surprised, the doctor had given him some strong painkillers and David had taken two after settling in his seat. They’re probably starting to work and the relief knocked him out.

As the light turned green George got the car going again, his mind moving onto what would be happening later that night. Domino was going to come back for David, but hell if he thought the guy deserved to call himself his boyfriend after burning him so badly and then just ignoring it. He still wasn’t exactly sure what he was going to do about it, if anything, but when he pulled into his parking spot, he could see Domino standing by the entrance, waiting.

This is gonna be good. And by good, I mean annoying.

Deciding not to worry about the inevitable, he got David’s crutches out of the back along with his bag of medicine, then lifted him up and kicked the door shut. It locked automatically after a few seconds, one function of his car that he greatly appreciated.

“There you are, geez. Took you long enough, give him here.” Domino said as he stalked over, reaching for David like one would a stuffed animal.

“Fuck off.”

He wasn’t someone who normally cursed, or got involved in anyone else’s issues that didn’t involve him dragging them outside when they’ve had too much to drink, but the look on Domino’s face just pissed him off.

“What did you just say, bastard?”

Rolling his eyes, George spotted one of his friends standing in the line waiting to get in and walked over, handing David to him with a slight grin. “Hold this for me?” He asked as the man took David and George set the medicine and crutches down on the sidewalk.

“Uh oh, you’re smiling. Don’t break too many of his bones man, don’t need an ambulance coming around before I even get drunk.”

George grunted and turned, catching a punch he knew would be heading for his head as soon as he was facing Domino. The guy was predictable, as most assholes were. So, when the next punch came George side-stepped, yanking the guy’s hand he still held to the side and forcing him to spin.

“Such a pretty ballerina,” he mused as the growing line waiting to get inside laughed.

“Fuck you, dumb ass ape!”

Xena’s going to get mad if I let him keep throwing punches outside of the club.

Shaking his head, George ducked another incoming punch, then nonchalantly landed one to the guy’s middle, stepping back just in time to avoid getting vomit all over his shoes. “Leave now, and if I see you anywhere near this establishment again, I will get the cops involved.”

The guy’s eyes widened with worry, and after another decent amount of heaving, he staggered to his feet and literally fell into his beaten-up grey truck. Not bothering to watch him speed away, George walked back over and took David from his friend, then grabbed the medicine bag and crutches and thanked him before going inside. The guy still working the door seemed fine, so he just walked past and straight back to the kitchen. Xena was at the friers, making chicken wings judging from the smells coming from the room.

“I brought your chef back.” George mumbled, drawing the woman’s attention and getting an excited scream that made him wince in response.

“Oh my god! David, are you okay?” She squealed as she ran over, her hands fluttering everywhere and making George frustrated. “He’ll be fine but he needs to stay off his leg for at least a few days. The doctor said he’s got some second degree burns and won’t be walking well for awhile.”

Xena sighed and nodded, realizing that David wasn’t waking up no matter how much she fussed. That at least had her stopping, which George was grateful for.

“Alright. I’ll take over the kitchen until he’s healed up. Thank god Orion’s boy is amazing with dishes and prep, we’re not even behind. Can you call Domino and have him pick him up?”

No.

“I beat him up outside when he tried to take David. He was the reason the boiling water spilled on him in the first place. I’ve also barred him from the club, so if you see him again, please kindly warn him that I will break his ribs if he does not leave immediately.”

Xena’s face deadpanned for several long, silent moments before she burst out laughing and gave him a strong pat on the shoulder.

“God I love you, George. Good job. Do you have a receipt for the hospital bill?”

George nodded and handed her the receipt.

“Sweet, that’s not bad. I’ll add the two-hundred you spent to your next check, that alright?”

He nodded. “Can I retire early for the night? David will likely be awake again within the next few hours as the medicine’s effect wears down, so I’d like to get some sleep so that I can wake up and get him re-dosed when needed so that his injuries can heal fast.”

She nodded, waving with a grin. “No problemo, go get him to bed. And take good care of my chef, I need his butt back cooking as soon as possible!”

“Yes ma’am, thank you and have a good night.”

Xena nodded, turning back to the friers to continue on with the simple orders she was getting. Understanding that he was dismissed, George ducked out of the kitchen and headed upstairs to his room. Orion and himself were the only two that lived on the premises. Orion was there for his own reasons but he was there for security purposes. It was free rent for the simple task of keeping an eye on the business, so a win-win for both him and Xena.

After two flights of stairs George stepped into his small room and let the crutches fall from his arms to the carpeted floor. He set the medicine down on his nightstand, then finally set David down on his bed. The guy was still wearing his jacket, but eh, he had a few others so it didn’t bother him. What did, however, was the need to shower. He’d worked a double yesterday and passed out before showering, then woke up too late to do it. Since David was good for the time being, he quickly stripped off his clothing and headed for the small bathroom. It was nowhere near the size of Orion’s, but he could care less. He didn’t need a lot of space and the less he had the less he had to keep clean.

Time to scrub myself to the bone, then catch a few hours of sleep before my new pet human wakes me up for more meds.

Sounded like sooo much fun… not.

Piece of Cake

(Zach’s song! Bless the Broken Road. This was playing while I was trying to write a happy chapter, darn song >< but the parttt “You’ve been there and you understand; and god blessed the broken road, that lead me straight to you.” So perfect. hugs Zach)

“Give me a high five, kid! You saved my butt today,” Xena said with a tired smile. Zachary clasped his hand in hers and returned her grin. He was exhausted and covered in all sorts of random food scraps, soap, and water, but at least he’d made his new boss happy. That’s all that mattered to him because a shower could and Orion’s bed could take care of everything else.

“I’m glad I could be useful.”

Xena laughed, then yawned, covering it mostly with a hand. “Alright kid, we’re done for the night. Ricki’s got more than enough clean glasses to deal with the stragglers at the bar, so get your butt outta here and go do whatever it is you do.”

Zach nodded and tossed his disgusting gloves he’d set aside in the trash and headed for the door, only to hear Xena call behind him to “Catch!” He whirled around, lifting his hands just in time to save a cold piece of something from falling to the floor. He glanced at the small container is his hands and opened the lid curiously.

Oh!

“Enjoy it. It was from my birthday a few days ago but I’m tired of eating cake. If you want, I think Orion should be on his break soon, why not go upstairs and share with him?”

Great idea!

“Thanks! I’ll go do that,” Zachary said happily as he turned and ran out of the door and up the stairs, hearing Xena laughing behind him. Once on the second floor it was easy to find Orion’s room, mainly because there was a huge M on the door for it. While he could hear a few voices inside, he figured it would be fine to just go in since he wasn’t dressed half bad. Grabbing the knob, he hesitantly pushed the door open and stepped inside.

The first thing he noticed was that it was much darker inside the room than outside. All of the lights were dim, giving just enough light to make out faces but not details from where he stood. Several women in leather or dresses, sometimes both, were sitting on several large sectional sofas the color of dark red blood or black. Guys were dispersed between them at certain points, but most were sitting at the bar where Zachary quickly noticed Orion making drinks.

“Hey Or—Master!” Zachary called, catching himself when he remembered that Orion didn’t use his real name at the club. Of course, he also failed to remember himself, that Orion’s name was on his collar. Orion looked up, a grin immediately in place over the forced smile he had been wearing. He quickly held out the drink he’d been making to a young man in tight black leather pants and leather straps around his chest before ducking around the edge of the bar and literally running over to scoop him into his arms.

“Hey sweetheart!” Orion said with a content sigh as he hugged him tight and sighed against his neck before kissing it lightly and leaning back. “How was your first day? Xena didn’t run you too raged, did she?”

“Nope! And look!” Zach moved his hand around to his front and showed Orion the container. “She said you would be on break soon and gave me this so maybe we could share it?”

Orion blew out a surprised quiet whistle and turned to walk over to one of the spots on the sofa where there was just enough room for him if Zachary sat on his lap. “Xena must really like you to give you that, she’s been guarding the last piece of her double fudge cake for three days under penalty of death.”

Wow, really?

“You really saved her butt tonight though, so you deserve it.” Orion said before sitting down next to a young man and woman that couldn’t stop staring between him and Orion.

“Oh my god, he’s adorable! Where did you find someone so cute, Master?”

My master, not yours!

Zachary blinked, then blushed at his own jealous thoughts. How mean, I have no reason to be jealous. He collared me, after all. Not any of these people. Even though they look older… and more mature… and obviously have more money…

Doubt swam in his veins but he forced it aside and realized that Orion was looking at him, and had likely asked him a question that he hadn’t heard. Oops. Thankfully Orion seemed to understand that he’d missed his words and just rustled his hair and took the container once he was situated on his lap comfortably.

“You forgot forks, sweetheart.”

Oh my god!

No wonder Xena had been laughing at him! “I-I’ll go get some!” He quickly squeaked out, but when he tried to get up Orion held his legs, keeping him in his lap as he chuckled deeply.

“It’s fine, sweetheart. Say ah?”

Zachary didn’t get much of a chance to decline, because a delicious-smelling piece of fudge cake was soon encroaching on his lips. He opened for it, of course, then moaned as the rich chocolate flavor exploded in his mouth. Holy crap! No wonder she guarded the cake!

“Haha, you’re so cute! No wonder Master collared you. What’s your name, cutie?” The young blond woman said as she leaned closer. Zachary realized that everyone’s eyes in the room were actually on him. Well, except for one of the couples on the other sofa that were too busy sucking each others faces off.

“U-um… my n-name is Zachary.”

Darn it, he’d gone several days without stuttering badly but having so much attention was unnerving! He leaned against Orion’s chest with a quiet huff and tried to hide his face a little. It didn’t work, mainly because Orion offered him another piece of cake with his fingers, and the delicious chocolate was too hard to resist. Another piece came before he’d even finished with the second one, but he gladly took it front Orion’s fingers all the same. What he didn’t expect that came directly after it though, was Orion’s soft lips as his thumb slid a small bit of fudge along his cheek to give him room for the kiss. 

Cheers erupted in Zachary’s ears as the room went wild. He didn’t mind kissing Orion, but doing it in front of so many people was really making his stomach roll with nerves. Thankfully Orion seemed to notice when he leaned back a little. “You’re getting pale, Zachary. Is this attention bothering you, sweetheart?”

Giving a shaky nod, Zachary felt Orion gently guide his head to his shoulder. He turned it just enough to nuzzle into the crook of his neck and hide his burning face.

“Sorry guys, I think I’m going to take him back downstairs. He’s not used to this kind of attention.”

There were a few “Aww”s from the group as well as a couple nods as Orion stood, carefully adjusting Zachary in his arms before heading for the door. “I’ll be back in a few minutes, please excuse me.”

Several people shouted something along the lines of “Of course, Master!” or “Enjoy!” but Zachary wasn’t listening to anything but his thundering heart pounding in his ears. Mix that with the loud music that returned as soon as Orion stepped out of the quieter room and he knew a headache was likely to be starting soon. They were both quiet until they were back in Orion’s room. As soon as the door shut Zachary heaved a huge sigh of relief and felt his body begin to go limp in Orion’s arms as the older man chuckled.

“I’m sorry about that, Zachary. They’re just curious and want to know my new sub.”

He could understand that, but he still wasn’t very good with people, let alone that many at one time. “It’s o-okay.” After getting a gentle pat on his back, Orion sat Zach down on his bed and then took the spot beside him with a grin. The grin looked a little too mischievous, however, and Zachary soon found out why as Orion lifted the container of chocolate cake he’d been feeding him.

I sense a trap.

Not that he cared, because soon Orion was offering him another piece of cake with his fingers. Yum! Zachary took it immediately, downing it fast as the next piece came, then made it disappear in the same fashion.

“Hey sweetheart?”

Zach blinked up at Orion, realizing that he’d moved to within a few inches of his face without him noticing. “Yes, Master?” He almost said yeah? but remembered just in time to change to Master. It was going to take him some time to get used to saying that, but at least he was catching himself most times.

“Can you put some on yourself where you would be comfortable with me licking it off?”

Zachary’s eyes went wide and he knew he was turning red when Orion’s smile lengthened a fraction. “Okay…” he whispered as he took the container Orion offered him and hesitantly dipped two fingers into the soft, cold fudge. He thought for a quiet moment before lifting his fingers and running them over the mark he already knew Orion had left on his cheek.

“Good boy,” Orion said as he leaned forward and let his tongue run along the length of the mark. Zachary shivered at the contrast of the cold cake to Orion’s hot tongue as it moved over the area, cleaning every last bit of chocolate from his skin before leaning away to lick his lips.

“Mm, you’re delicious.”

Looking away, Zachary felt his fingers clutch the container of cake nervously. “Th-the cake is delicious.”

There was quiet for several moments, so Zachary decided to chance a glance back at Orion. The older man was waiting for the action, because he was there right away, his soft lips hungrily kneading Zachary’s. “You think it tastes better than you?” He whispered against his mouth, voice husky. Zach wanted to lie, afraid of how Orion might react to the truth, but then he remembered what Orion had said, and also what the book had told him so far. Trust and truth. Lying to your dominant or submissive was not appropriate.

“I-I’m d-dirty from w-work…” He mumbled out, feeling his lips tingle each time they bushed against Orion’s. “Answer my question, sweetheart.”

Squeezing his eyes shut tight, Zachary quickly mumbled out. “I-I do.”

Orion’s tongue suddenly lapped up his left cheek, making his eyes fly open in surprise. He then slapped his hand against the wet spot while he stared up at Orion’s tongue as it retreated back into his smirking mouth. “Y-you just licked me!”

The smirk stretched, and before he could do anything about it Orion was licking a long line from his chin to his nose, and up to his forehead. “Ack! Hey!” Reaching up, he moved to rub his arm over his face, but Orion snagged it before he could and began licking at each finger on his hand!

“Oriiiooon. Stooop, my hands are dirty.”

He stopped licking at them, but then redirected to Zachary’s neck, catching him off-guard since he was focusing on getting his newly-freed hand to finally wipe at his face. When Orion’s teeth barely nibbled at the flesh just under his jaw Zachary couldn’t stop the loud moan that left his mouth. In a blur he was scrambling backwards, having seen the predatory look that came over Orion’s face the moment he’d accidentally moaned… but he wasn’t fast enough. No matter how much he moved, Orion was there not a second behind, eventually leaving Zachary on the edge of the bed by the storeroom door, holding his head up with his arm covering his neck in worry. Orion was resting overtop him, his large body easily pinning Zach’s with little effort, his eyes never leaving his target.

“Zachary… I want it, please.”

The raw need in Orion’s voice made Zachary’s stomach twist into knots. He wanted to give in, but then he would make a fool of himself and moan again! When the older man leaned over and pressed a kiss to his arm guarding his throat Zach swallowed, trying his best to keep his arm exactly where it was, as well as his head up so that he didn’t expose his neck further.

“Please, sweetheart. That was the best thing I’ve heard all day and I need to hear it again.”

Pursing his lips, Zach fought with himself for another two long minutes before he felt his head drop over the edge of the bed from exhaustion. His arm hadn’t moved yet, but it didn’t need to. Orion easily moved over it to press his lips beneath his jaw. He quickly begin to suckle there, drawing all sorts of stifled sounds from Zachary’s forcefully closed mouth. No way was he letting those sounds escape to increase in volume!

That’s what he thought, at least. Orion, however, was relentless and soon Zachary’s arm was completely out of the way so that he could enjoy his whole neck. And he sure as hell did just that. It wasn’t even another two minutes later when Zach just gave up and let his mouth gape open, freeing moan after moan as Orion worked his tongue and teeth against his sensitive skin with no reserve.

Not until Orion’s phone began ringing loudly in his pocket did Zachary notice that the man had one of his hands slipped under his jean-covered backside, grasping tightly, while the other held his hair in a tight knot with his strong fingers. “Damn,” Orion hissed as he forced himself away and off Zachary before sitting up and answering the call. There was quiet for a moment as Zachary shifted back fully onto the bed and tried to catch his breath, panting too hard to be able to hear whoever was talking on the other end of the call.

“Yeah, sorry. I got distracted. I’ll be right up.”

Another quick bout of silence and Orion glanced over at him with a grin, making Zachary flush. “Yup, he tasted better than the cake.”

Oh my god, it’s Xena! I’m gonna go die in the corner now!

Rise

Hearing the first groaning alarm clock of what he figured was going to be a consistent thing for the next few nights, George forced sleep from his eyes with a few good rubs at them, then stood up and walked around to the side where David was still sleeping fitfully.

“Hey David, wake up,” he said as he reached down, shaking his shoulder enough to get the guy to begin coming around. He looked like he hadn’t gotten a single minute of sleep, let alone the four hours that have passed since he fell asleep. When David seemed to finally be coherent George walked to his bathroom and filled a small paper cup with water, then returned to hand it to David. Thankfully he’d gotten the guy propped up on some pillows, knowing that he would have to give him medicine several times in bed.

When he was sure David had a firm grasp on the cup and wouldn’t dump it by accident, George grabbed the bottle of medicine and turned on the lamp on the nightstand. “Alright, looks like you can have another pill since it’s been four hours and you only took one after leaving the hospital. I’m going to assume that you want it?” He checked, looking down at David to see the man nodding.

“Alright, here. Once you take the pill drink the rest of the water.”

David whimpered as his response, then took the medicine and shakily chugged the remainder of the water before holding the cup up. George realized the silent request without needing words and quickly got the cup refilled. David went through two more cups of water before he finally set it down on the nightstand and leaned back against the pillows with a wince. Since he didn’t say anything, George figured he would just wait for the meds to kick in, then pass out again, but as he began to make his way back to the other side of his bed to get a few more hours of sleep before the next ‘alarm’ sounded, he heard David gasp out a few words.

“Need… t-to pee.”

Biting back a sigh, George walked back around and carefully got his arms under David. He understood that he would eventually have to go bathroom, so he couldn’t really be annoyed. At least he didn’t wake me up just to pee. “Alright, lifting you on three. One, two, three.” Unintentionally, the abrupt shift of his body knocked his burned leg against the other, making David give a pretty damn impressive scream.

Shit, that’s probably going to wake up Orion and his kid.

He had no doubt that Orion might think he was going after David, either. The guy knew he had a short fuse and wasn’t beyond beating people who deserved it. But David doesn’t deserve it. His ex, on the other hand… I wouldn’t mind getting my hands on him again. “Sorry, just take deep breaths,” George said as he got David situated on one foot by the toilet.

“You got it from here? I’ll hold you up, but I draw the line at the obvious.”

Feeling a faint chuckle from the other guy, George looked away as David relieved himself, then fastened his pants back up. “Thanks, just need to wash my hands.” George grunted and carefully got David in front of the sink where he washed, then dried his hands on a small towel sitting on the edge. Picking the guy back up afterward, George carried him back to the bed, then moved to his leg and looked up. “Do you want me to check the medicine he put on your burns? Does it feel like it’s getting worse?”

When he got a jerky nod in response George carefully began unwrapping the bandages, trying to be as gentle as possible… which was a bit hard considering his large hands. He seemed to manage decently-well at least, only getting a few grunts and one groan before he had the bandages undone. At that exact moment Orion walked in. He was only wearing a pair of black silk boxers but George didn’t let his current outfit play into how he reacted. Orion visibly looked worried, his brow creased and body tense.

“I picked him up so that he could go bathroom and his bad leg hit his other one. He’s fine and after I get his leg remedicated we’re both going to go back to sleep until his pain meds wear off again.”

Orion stared at him for a second longer than George was comfortable with, earning a glare. “What? Do you want him or something? Take him if you want.”

When Orion took a step forward, likely to accept the offer and remove David, the guy actually shook his head. “Please, dear god, don’t move me again.”

George rolled his eyes and shoved the medicine into Orion’s hand. “You can do that if you’re so worried. I’m going back to sleep.”

Without waiting for a response George walked over to his side of the bed and slid in on top of the blanket and closed his eyes with a yawn.

Definitely George. Orion bit back a retort and instead got busy rubbing the cream from the container he’d been handed. Whatever medicine David had been given seemed to be kicking in, because the guy was floating in and out of consciousness each time Orion chanced a look up at him. The poor guy was as white as a sheet and panting shallowly, but he wasn’t screaming and only gave a grunt every once in awhile. It was a relief, especially considering they used to be in a relationship. Short or not, Orion and Dav had remained friends and seeing the guy in this condition really boiled his blood. He wasn’t an aggressive person, not even to his subs if they asked for it, but if he saw Dom again, the guy was going to have to run… fast.

Since David was asleep by the time Orion had finished rubbing the medicine on his burns, he decided to forgo the bandages and let the guy get as much sleep as he could until the pain woke him up again. After glancing over at George, he noted that he, too, was out cold, and decided to just leave and return in the morning. The urge to hug David welled up in his chest but he knew it would likely wake him, so he just set the medicine container down on the nightstand and let himself out.

The next morning Zachary had to go in early to help Xena get everything ready since she hadn’t worked in the kitchen for awhile and luck would have it, her part-time cook was sick. Since he was already awake, Orion hopped in the shower after Zach left and then got dressed and headed upstairs to check on David. What he found when he stepped inside George’s small room, however, was definitely not something he ever expected. David was still on his back, but George wasn’t. Since David’s leg was now bandaged, he figured that he’d also been redosed with medication. It didn’t explain why George was partially hugging him though as he rested on his belly, one arm slung over David’s chest.

What might, though, were David’s red eyes that Orion noticed when he turned on the small lamp on the nightstand. If it’s one thing George doesn’t like besides having to do emotional stuff, it’s dealing with crying people. That was likely why he relented slightly and half hugged the guy.

Can’t pass up this opportunity.

Grinning like the fool that he knew he was for even considering what he was about to do, Orion grabbed his phone from his pocket and snapped a picture.

Unfortunately for Orion, George hadn’t been asleep. How the hell could he be when it was so uncomfortable to have his arm slung over someone else? It was practically numb and beginning to ache! He sat up slowly, shaking out his arm as his eyes narrowed on Orion. The guy was wise and quickly deleted the photo he’d taken, knowing that he was going down if he didn’t.

“Go get us some breakfast, Orion. His stomach’s been growling for an hour now and since you’re here, you might as well do it.”

When Orion just sighed and turned to leave, George knew he had won. Well, not really since he still had to deal with David, but at least he didn’t have go make breakfast and deliver it like some butler.

“Hey… George?”

Darn it. You’re supposed to be knocked out for at least a couple more hours.

Grumbling under his breath, George turned around to see David staring up at him with a tired smile. “I know that look. What do you want?” He asked, not bothering to beat around the bush.

“Can I try to bribe you into helping me take a bath?”

George narrowed his eyes and sat down on the edge of his bed next to David. “Ask Orion, I’m sure he’d love to help.”

That made the guy shift awkwardly, his eyes downcast on his lap as he tried to keep himself in a semi-sitting position. “What is it now?” George grumbled, making David flinch. Well too bad, he didn’t like waking up every couple of hours on his one day off that week. He was going to be a grumpy ass and David was just going to have to deal with it.

“I-I’ll cook you dinner?”

“You usually do anyways, remember? I eat the leftover stuff half the time.”

David hunched and sniffed once. “Um, I’ll cook whatever you want? I-I just want to get clean and asking Orion…”

Bah. He knew they’d been together at one short, short point and it was probably awkward, but he was not a damn caregiver! However… and fuck me for even considering this. “I want a cherry vanilla cake.”

“Deal!” David shouted as his head snapped up, a relieved smile taking over his exhausted face. “No take backs!” He added a moment later, making George’s face deadpan.

“Really? How old are you?” He asked with a huff, even as he got up and carefully began getting David into his arms. “This Earth has been graced with my awesome self for thirty years. I know, it’s hard to believe it’s still here, but I’m going easy on it.”

Unintentionally, George let a quiet chuckle slip out. He cut it off almost immediately, but considering the smile growing on David’s face, the guy had caught it. Whatever. Setting him down in the tub, he carefully held up his injured leg by his foot, which was barely burned thanks to his shoe, and put a folded towel beneath it. Judging from the hiss David let out when George set his foot down on it, it didn’t help completely, but at least it did what it needed to and kept his bad leg elevated so that he could start getting the bath underway.

“Get your clothing off, then I’ll start the water.”

When David just looked at him George frowned. “What?”

The guy lifted his shirt off and tossed it aside, but then glanced down at his pants, then back up at George with a raised brow. Dammit. I forgot that the doctor had to cut his pant leg off. Of course he won’t be pulling them off himself.

Grumbling something about never getting another pet for as long as he lived, George got up and walked back into his room, returning with a pair of scissors a moment later. Instead of bothering with any commands, he leaned over the tub and began cutting away at David’s jeans. When he got up to his waist he very quickly noticed that the guy wasn’t wearing any underwear, making George look up at him with a slight grin. He was going to poke fun at him, but when he saw the look on David’s face, he forced himself to keep his mouth shut and just finished carefully cutting away his pants.

“There.”

He tried his best not to look, but there was no helping it as he tried to cover the glances up with getting the water going and washcloths soapy. There were cuts and ligature marks everywhere. Literally every-fucking where. I’ll kill him if I see him again. There’s a huge difference between being a dominant to a submissive and being abusive.

“Here,” he said quietly, handing David the washcloth before getting up and walking back into his bedroom. He needed a minute to cool off or he would go off on the guy, and that wouldn’t help either of them. Well, it would make him feel better, but David feel worse. So, not a good idea at the moment. Instead, he did a few quick laps of his small room, then took the breakfast Orion delivered after a knock at the door. Not wanting to deal with someone else however, George quickly sent him away after telling him that David was taking a bath and was fine.

I doubt Orion would be able to just walk away if he knew about the marks.

It wasn’t the man’s business though. And hell, it wasn’t his either, that’s why he kept them to himself and closed the door behind Orion after he left. By then George felt cooled-down enough to walk back to David, glad to see that he was slowly managing to get the washcloth over his marred skin. Something was nagging at his mind still though, and being who he was, he decided to get it out.

“I made your ex throw up outside before I brought you in here yesterday.”

Leaving that bait in the air, he grabbed a paper cup from his counter and set it on the edge of the tub for when David wanted to wash the soap off. His hand had stopped however, just like George had figured it would when he spoke.

“He… he’s my boyfriend.” David replied in a hushed whisper, fear in his wide eyes.

“No, he’s not.” George stated flatly.

His blatant disagreement seemed to catch David off-guard, making the guy drop the washcloth into the water that came up to his waist. “What? O-of course he is. I-I’ll apologize a-and he’ll take me back, just like last t-time!”

Last time?

“What happened last time?” George asked, unable to keep the question from leaving his mouth.

David frowned and looked down at his naked lap, then shrugged. “I-I mentioned Orion…” His head jerked up quickly, worry etched in the creases beside his eyes. “It was my fault! I’d promised the time before that I-I wouldn’t talk about him at all. I-I deserved to get punished for it!”

“Bullshit!”

The scream wasn’t supposed to happen, but holy hell! How blind can someone be?

“Nearly choking you to death is a punishment? “ George snarled, making David flinch.

“H-he didn’t mean to make it so tight! It was just supposed to hurt!” He tried shouting back, but barely managed to get above a gruff whisper as his voice cracked with worry.

“Alright then. So I’ll just call him to come get you then?” George asked, a sneer on his face as he saw the reaction he knew was coming. David’s face paled and his breath caught, making him cough after a moment of terror.

“See? You’re fucking terrified of that asshole! So why the hell are you staying with him? You can do better, you idiot!”

He probably shouldn’t have added the idiot part, but dammit! He was pissed! And David was acting like a complete idiot!

The answer he got was nothing like what he thought he might. George figured David would just whimper another pathetic excuse about how he was in the wrong and Domino had punished him appropriately, but he surprised him when he spoke harshly.

“Well? Do you know anyone who would want to touch someone who looks like this? I know you’re disgusted by the marks, too, so don’t you dare lie about it! At least Domino pays attention to me! He might not love me, but I need something! And he’s the only one who will want me now that I look like this…”

His words died down near the end, drifting off into a mumble as his body sagged with exhaustion. Not being a man of words, and having already said way more than he normally did within a full day, George just decided to show instead of tell. He walked over to the tub and knelt down, then leaned over to begin rubbing his hands all over the scars and marks on David’s skin.

“You know what?” He said after a few minutes of silence. His hands were still moving but slowing so that he could concentrate on speaking. When David didn’t reply George decided to just finish what he wanted to say, his eyes moving up to meet his. “I think Domino did all of this to you because he was so insecure about himself. I think that he marked you so badly in the hopes that you wouldn’t think someone else might be able to see past the scars, but you know what, David?”

This time he got a response. A barely-there, cried, “…What?”

Reaching over and leaning up, George placed a firm hand on David’s soft hair and pressed his forehead against his. “I can see straight through those little scratches to see how awesome you really are, and I know that other people will be able to as well. And for those who can’t. They don’t deserve you.”

He felt the guy give a broken sob, then reach up and wrap his arms around his neck to nuzzle his nose in the crook. Awkwardly, George reached around and hugged him, being careful not to move him too much and jar his bad leg. “Do you understand?” He asked quietly as he began starting to rub his back, ignoring the scarred ridges he felt with the action. It took David a few minutes to pull himself together enough to speak, but when he did, George knew he would eventually be okay.

“Y-yeah. I-I’m just too awesome f-for m-most people now.”

Creative Mistakes (Rewritten/Fixed)

(This chapter was deleted by a glitch. I managed to keep some of it, but the rest I’ve rewritten. I tried my best to remember the important parts in this chapter so that the story flows smoothly. If you’re rereading this, please let me know if I’ve missed something. IF YOU STILL CAN’T SEE IT ALL, REFRESH THE PAGE. It should end with ‘trust you’.)

By the time noon came around George knew David was going to be a pain. He was already in pain, still, but the medicine was definitely working because the guy was nowhere near as bad as he had been earlier in the day.

“You stay right there,” George said, pointing at David as if he expected the guy to actually get up and just walk away with his crispy leg. He didn’t expect the walking but he knew the guy was getting really bored and there were still crutches. It wasn’t that he cared if David moved around the club, what bothered him was the possibility of him hurting himself further when he fell, which was highly likely to occur. As he stepped into the shower, George couldn’t help the thoughts that came to his mind.

I really just need to get the guy a leash and collar… and tie him to a lamppost outside with a Free To Good Home sign around his neck.

Of course he wouldn’t. That was illegal, and Domino would likely be the one to unfortunately find him first.

Can’t believe the idiot actually thought he should go back to that asshole.

It pissed him off just thinking about it. Shaking his head, George scrubbed a strong masculine-smelling shampoo into his hair, then rinsed. He wasn’t really sure what was in it, per say, but it definitely smelled like male, which was good enough for him. While Orion preferred his minty girly stuff, George couldn’t stand the smell and kept all of his things closer to the scent of strong mixes of whatever the stores considered masculine at the time he went to shop. Once he’d rinsed out his conditioner and then did a quick swipe of soap along his body, George turned off the cool shower and stepped out butt naked.

“Of course.”

He wasn’t surprised in the least when he looked at his bed and noticed David gone. Instead of rushing out of his room to find him, still nude, George just huffed out an annoyed sigh and dried off, then pulled on a pair of dark blue shorts. He then grabbed a belt and walked out, heading right for the place he knew he’d find the frustrating guy. He was there, of course, hopping around like the idiot George was understanding him to be.

And cooking in a pair of boxers and a T-shirt, no less. Maybe if I don’t help him dress next time he won’t leave… or I’ll just find him cooking naked.

He was about to tie David’s hands together, then grab him around the waist and drag him back to his room, but when he noticed the ingredients in front of the guy, he couldn’t help but feel a little hesitant. Not to mention, when David heard him come in and looked up, George couldn’t not notice the look of excitement and happiness in David’s previously pained eyes. Not that he didn’t look like he was hurting, but he looked like the cooking was taking much more of his focus now as he began to whisk some dry ingredients together in a bowl while trying to balance on one foot.

If he wasn’t making my cake…

Grumbling, George walked over and carefully grabbed David around the waist. The guy paused in his mixing to look over his shoulder at him, wincing when he saw the face George was giving him. “I-I won’t be long…” He tried with an awkward smile, looking like someone who knew they were in trouble but still wanted to at least finish the deed before they got punished for it.

George wanted to argue and drag the guy off like the bouncer he was. Scratch that, erase the arguing. But… “Hurry up.” He said with a glare as he held tight to David’s waist to keep the guy upright and still. While David quickly turned his attention back to the cake he was working on, George couldn’t help but let his eyes move over what he could see of his body. Very few of the injuries he’d seen earlier were visible now, which was a relief as he wouldn’t have to explain anything if Orion, Zachary, or Xena walked in. Moving his attention to the collar around his neck, a sudden anger welled up in his chest and he reached over to grab a pair of scissors that had been left out.

When he turned, he noticed David’s eyes on him with a slight hint of curiosity and confusion in them. Without bothering to explain himself, George reached for the collar, only to have his hand blocked by both of David’s as the guy gripped hard at the leather.

“Really, David? That guy has caused you so much pain, and yet you won’t remove his stupid collar?”

The why? was silent at the end of his sentence, but David seemed to hear it anyways as he hunched and licked his lips nervously. He didn’t actually reply with words, but George wasn’t stupid. He’d seen enough subs and understood, to a point, what the collar represented.

Safety. The feeling of being wanted.

He rolled his eyes and turned, working at the belt he’d brought with him as he added a third reason in his mind. Stupidity. Finishing what he was doing, he turned back toward David and noticed Domino’s name scrawled across the collar. Without much thought into it, he turned and swiped a silver Sharpie marker from the cup Xena used to hold her random stationary in the kitchen and wrote out his own name along the belt he’d cut.

When he was finished he eyed his work, not exactly impressed, but figuring that it was good enough. Turning, he reached for David’s collar again, this time doing so fast enough so that he wasn’t blocked. Next came the scissors, much to David’s chagrin, as far as his worried face was concerned. “Just deal with it for a second,” George grumbled as he cut the collar off, then replaced it with the one he’d fashioned from the belt he’d brought.

“There. Problem solved… and now you don’t have some asshole’s name around your neck. Just this asshole,” he said, pointing to his own chest with a smug grin.

What he hadn’t thought of before suddenly came to mind when David stared up at him with a hopeful smile. Uh oh. “D-don’t think that that’s permanent. It’s just until you find someone, you hear me? Go get a dominant you can trust and get him to put a new collar on you.”

George couldn’t have made his voice sound more stern if he tried, yet the reaction he got was anything but the one he wanted. David hopped forward and wrapped his arms around his chest, then leaned in to rest his forehead right beneath his neck.

“I trust you.”

Uncertain

(I just realized that this is the 18th chapter of this story. It feels like it’s somewhere near the 4th. Where did all the chapters come from? o.o In all honesty, this is probably the most fun I’ve had with a book, and the first one where I didn’t even notice the chapters going by. I normally end my books at 23-26 chapters, but I have a feeling this one has awhile longer to go. Hopefully you guys will stick around… you know, for Zach and David’s sake. Just to make sure they’re treated well and ‘stuff’)

“Hey there, sweetheart,” Orion said with a light purr to his voice. Zachary had heard him walk into the bathroom, glad that he hadn’t been startled by the man’s voice.

“Hey Master. Xena and I finished up while you were checking your room so I figured I’d take a shower and rinse off the tomato soup she’d managed to spill on my arms.” Thankfully it hadn’t gotten onto his new, or well, used, clothing.

“Ah,” Orion said, but when he didn’t leave Zachary grinned and shook his wet head back and forth before opening the shower door. “Come on, Master.”

The grin that lit up the man’s face as he quickly tugged off his shorts, boxers, and shirt, made Zachary smile. He backed up so that Orion had space, then calmly settled into his waiting arms once he had the door shut again. “That’s my boy, I’m so proud of you for working so hard.” He whispered against Zach’s hair, making him give a quiet, content hum. Tilting his head up, he welcomed the chaste kiss he knew was coming from Orion.

“Zachary, before our shifts begin in a few hours, would you do me the honor of a… a short date?”

Immediately Orion straightened, his cheeks warming as he glanced sideways at the tile. After knowing the guy for several days, Zach caught the odd stutter and grinned, poking Orion’s belly with a playful smile.

“I’d love to, Master.”

Orion turned back to him with excitement in his eyes before he scooped Zachary up. “Awesome! I know you’ll love it!”

Ah, so he’s already got something planned? Zachary thought to himself as he quickly scrubbed at his body while Orion finished with his hair. Since Orion didn’t seem to want to actually wash, because he’d already taken a shower earlier, they both got out at the same time and headed to the closet to get dressed. What Zachary saw inside both surprised him and warmed his heart.

He hung up all of my clothing that he bought for me… right next to his own.

“Zachary?”

Zach looked up with a curious smile, not the least bit worried that he was still standing in front of Orion naked. He trusted the man, so he had no reason to worry.

“May I choose your clothing for the day?”

Considering he wasn’t even used to switching his outfit more than once a year, Zachary agreed without a second of hesitation. “Yes please, Master.”

Orion set his hand atop Zach’s head and then leaned over to steal a quick kiss from his cheek. “Thank you, sweetheart. You make me very happy.”

Zachary blushed at his words and followed Orion into the closet, standing quietly until he was handed a pair of dark red boxers, which he slid on immediately. Next, even though he could tell that Orion really wanted to pick out the inappropriate ripped jeans, he handed him a pair of black, form-fitting, but not skinny jeans. The shirt took him a bit longer, eventually ending up with him holding two different choices up to Zachary.

“Which one would you prefer, Zachary?”

Without a second though Zach grabbed the dark red one with black highlights and tugged it up and over his head before pulling on his shoes. “Yeah, definitely the right choice.” Orion mused before he got himself dressed in a pair of blue boxers, worn blue jeans, a dark red tank top, and his normal pair of black boots. Zachary liked the outfit, a lot. It wasn’t Orion’s normal leather by any means, but the jeans hugged him in all the right places and the tank top was a perfect offset. Without really thinking his words through, Zachary said. “You are very handsome.”

To his surprise, Orion reached over and picked him up, pressing a kiss to his nose before hugging him tightly against his chest. “And you’re an angel, sweetheart. I’m very glad that you find me attractive, because if I haven’t said it yet…” Zachary wrapped his legs around Orion’s waist when the man paused, then realized he probably wanted to look him in the eyes. When they did meet, Orion continued with a warm smile. “I love you. Even though we’ve only known each other for a few days, I will do my best to keep you happy, healthy, and hopefully, mine.”

Zachary was completely out of commission for a few moments as he hid his face in Orion’s neck, trying to keep his blush from being too obvious. As if hiding wasn’t. Orion let him get away with it though, but he didn’t set him down as he toted him outside after grabbing his wallet and keys. They exited the storeroom door into the back alley and Orion carried him all the way until they got to his car. The drive took a few minutes and a few turns, bringing them to a part of town that Zachary wasn’t familiar with. He’d been there a few times, but never found a reason to stay. When they turned into a long stretch of roadway leading back into a forested area, Zachary’s curiosity piqued, but he bit back the questions on his tongue, not wanting to bother Orion.

When they finally pulled into a parking space, Zach looked around and easily spotted a large multi-court play area. When Orion helped him from the passenger’s side and then walked around to grab a basketball from the trunk, Zachary fidgeted. Orion caught it, of course, but he just smiled and tucked the ball under his arm, then offered Zach a hand. “Come on, sweetheart.”

Zachary took it, though he wasn’t very interested in making himself look like a fool playing basketball. Jeans weren’t exactly the correct thing to wear, too, though he assumed the dresscode was because of the cool weather. When they got onto the court he stared up at one of the hoops warily.

“Head’s up, sweetheart.”

Turning, Zachary got his arms up just in time to catch the ball Orion had tossed to him.

“Show me what you’ve got?” He asked with a goading grin.

I don’t have much, but here goes nothing… literally.

Grasping the ball tightly for a moment, Zachary took a deep breath and then began to dribble towards the hoop Orion was now guarding. His first shot was easily blocked, but when Orion tossed him the ball back, Zachary pursed his lips and focused on a second try. It, too, was blocked, but not strictly because it was a bad shot, but because Zachary got distracted when several guys walked onto the courts. He immediately straightened, not very comfortable with the sudden intrusion.

“Hey there, Orion,” one of the guys called as he walked over. The two exchanges half-hugs where they patted each others backs briefly, then all five sets of eyes turned to Zach briefly, making him want to shrink back into the bushes beyond the wire fence surrounding the courts.

“Hey Donald, nice to see you again. Wanna play some?”

Zachary felt his face flush, worried about playing a game he was barely able to fake being okay at. And with other people, to add to it.

“Sure,” Donald replied right away, grinning at Orion before giving Zachary a smile and splitting his friends into teams. They ended up with one guy named Mark, while the other three made up the other team. When the game started Zachary was a bundle of nerves. He tried his best passing the ball to Orion or Mark, but he didn’t dare shoot because he was always guarded by someone far taller than himself.

When they decided to take a break Zachary made his way over to Orion, but couldn’t really figure out what he wanted to do. He originally wanted to pretend that he was too tired to finish the match after the break, but he couldn’t help but feel that doing it that way would be wrong. Orion was having so much fun, and even if he wasn’t, he shouldn’t lie to him. So, Zachary grabbed Orion’s hand and tugged him away from the group regathering for the second half of the game. When he was sure they were far enough away to be able to talk, he forced himself to look up and meet Orion’s excited eyes.

Darn it. He’s eager to play more… but don’t lie. Don’t lie.

“Orion I… I’m having fun.”

Orion seemed a bit surprised by Zachary’s words, but smiled and rustled his hair when they were called back to continue the game. “I’m glad. Let’s go finish them off, eh?”

Feeling absolutely terrible, Zachary nodded and followed. They played for another twenty minutes before Orion suddenly told the group that they both had to go. Zachary was relieved, but at the same time he was jittery and stressed to the point of feeling sick to his stomach. When they both slid into the car they remained silent, but as soon as Orion drove a little further into the park and stopped the car, putting on the parking brake, Zachary just fell apart. He snapped his seatbelt off and literally climbed into Orion’s lap. His tears ran down Orion’s muscular chest and soaked part of his tank top. He cried for nearly five minutes before forcing himself to sit back against the steering wheel and look up at Orion.

“Zachary.”

His tone was serious. Crap. Even when Orion lifted his finger to swipe at a stray tear, Zachary knew he was upset.

“What should you have told me right from the beginning, Zachary?”

“That I-I wasn’t good a-at basketball.”

Orion shook his head slowly and pressed his palm against Zachary’s left cheek, making Zach lean into it out of instinct for his touch.

“You’re getting more stressed, sweetheart. I’m not mad, just a little upset that you’re not telling me the truth.”

The uncomfortable feelings in his stomach clenched to an unbearable tightness and Zachary forced himself to speak, though many of his words came out slurred from worry. “I-I’m not good at basketball a-and I wasn’t having f-fun.”

The second the words were out of his mouth he sagged against Orion’s chest, hiccuping as he grabbed at the man’s tank top, silently begging for some kind of comfort. He had never felt so frustrated with himself as he did right then. He wasn’t a baby and he didn’t need someone to tell him that it was okay and to give him attention, but ever since he met Orion the feeling of just needing to be something to him wouldn’t leave him alone. Orion was an amazing person, and he hadn’t done a single thing wrong, but Zachary just couldn’t handle it right then. Going from nothing to suddenly having someone nearly worship you? It was too much.

“Talk to me, Zachary. There’s something else. Don’t be afraid to tell me.”

Swallowing hard, Zachary sniffled one last time and licked his dry lips. “I-I think I need t-to go back.”

Orion tilted his head and looked down at him, but Zachary refused to look up at him as he continued to speak. “I’m o-overwhelmed. I-I think tonight, a-after work…”

Tightening his hold on him, Orion pressed several kisses to his soft hair, trying to urge him on. What he heard, however, Zachary knew he didn’t like considering how much his arms strengthened around him further.

“I think I need to go back to my alley for the night.”

What It Could Be

Orion couldn’t put into words how crushed he felt by Zachary’s simple sentence. He understood, but at the same time he couldn’t even consider letting his boy go back to that disgusting alley. He wanted to ask why, and for how long Zach would be gone if he did let him go, but he just couldn’t get a darn word out! Zachary seemed to sense his frustration, but when neither of them said anything for the next several minutes Zach awkwardly slid to the passenger’s seat and buckled his seatbelt before turning to look out the window.

No. No no no!

Even though he was screaming in his mind, Orion put on a fake smile and got them back on the road. The drive felt like only a few seconds, when it had to have been at least fifteen minutes. Zachary didn’t wait for him to open his door when he parked and instead headed for the alley by the club. He fished his spare key from his pocket and opened the door before Orion was even able to force himself to get his seatbelt off.

Where are you going, sweetheart? Please come back…

Groaning quietly to his empty car, Orion leaned forward and pressed his forehead to the steering wheel he was already gripping tightly on either side. He understood what Zachary wanted, and knew that the abrupt shift in lifestyle would likely have a negative effect at some point… but he wasn’t ready.

A gentle knock on his car window made him glance over at Xena. Her expression was worried, and when he leaned back and rolled the window down, she quickly reached in and hugged him like one would an upset child.

“It’s okay, hun. He just needs more time to adjust.”

Orion frowned but nodded, allowing Xena to turn off his car and remove the keys, then undo his seat belt for him before she opened his door. “Come on, Orion. You’ve been sitting here for nearly an hour.”

What?

He was going to argue that he couldn’t have been sitting in his car for so long, but when he looked at the dashboard clock, it told him that she was right. Grumbling under his breath, Orion forced himself out of his car and locked it, then followed after Xena to the front of the club. He didn’t want to go with her, he wanted to go pull Zachary into a hug he couldn’t escape until he promised not to leave later, but he knew that would only cause more problems.

“Can you help Jim clean up the main area and tables before we open please?”

It wasn’t really a question, but he nodded anyways and quickly got busy. By the time people were beginning to trickle in he was panting, already tired. They had finished awhile ago but he had gone above and beyond and also cleaned the bathrooms and each of the rooms upstairs. Hearing them, he quickly ducked back downstairs and into his room to take a quick shower. The warm water released a small portion of the stress he was feeling, but when the door to the bathroom opened and Zachary stepped in, barely visible through the steamed-up glass of the shower, Orion felt his heartbeat stumble in his chest.

Zachary!

Forcing himself to pretend that he wasn’t affected, Orion scrubbed at his hair, only realizing that he didn’t even have soap in it yet.

“Sorry, I-I’ll just wait till you’re done…”

Before he could say anything Zachary backtracked into his bedroom.

Darn it.

He quickly got his hair cleaned, then moved to his body before stepping out into the chilly bathroom. Zachary had left the door wide open, letting in the cool air-conditioning. It added goosebumps to his flesh as he walked into his bedroom after wrapping a towel around his waist. His feet stopped in front of his bed, and more importantly, in front of a curled-up, sleeping Zachary.

You’re right where you should be, sweetheart.

Reaching down, Orion allowed his fingers to gently whisper across Zachary’s cheek, just barely touching the skin enough to feel. He felt his boy lean in just like a cat, silently asking for more attention.

You’re so well trained already, even after doing so little. I’d be insane to let you go without a fight… but I’d also be stupid to force you to stay when you’re only asking for a chance to understand.

It hurt, but he retracted his hand and went into the closet to get dressed for work. As soon as he stepped inside he heard his bed shift as Zachary got up and scurried into the bathroom to shower. He’d been awake… Forcing himself not to walk back into the bathroom, Orion quickly got changed into his normal leather attire, then, just needing to do something for Zach, he picked out a full outfit of clothing and set it out on the bed.

He obviously wouldn’t force Zachary to wear it if he didn’t want too, but it kept him from doing something stupid. God, I can’t believe how much he’s affecting me after barely a week. It was illogical, but hell, he didn’t care. Zachary was the cutest, most well-behaved submissive he’d ever met, and the guy didn’t even know it yet. When Orion heard the shower turn off he grabbed his boots and darted for the door, worried that Zachary might misunderstand the clothing lying on the bed.

Without even thinking about any implications, Zachary dried off in Orion’s bedroom, then pulled on the clothes that had been set out. Once he gave his teeth an extra brushing and checked his reflection in the mirror, he deemed himself ready for work and headed for the kitchen. Even though David was supposed to be on bedrest, Xena evidently wasn’t able to keep him there because when Zach stepped through the double doors, he noticed the guy over by the prep station laying into some squash.

“I’ve got dishes then, I assume?” Zachary said as he headed for the sink and got his gloves on. David just grunted in response, making him grin as he began washing the few plates already waiting for him from appetizers. As he worked he let his mind wander. Earlier had been stressful, but it also got Orion to back off a little, which was sadly needed. He really did like the guy, and had no intention of pushing him away. I just need some time to think.

About halfway through his shift one of the servers ducked into the kitchen, literally begging for help on the floor. Evidently Xena’s luck just kept getting worse because one of her bussers left only a few minutes after their shift began because of a bad cold.

“Hey kid, you ever bussed?” She asked Zach as she flipped several fish on a grill.

“Yeah. I’m on it,” he said as he tossed his gloves, washed his hands, and quickly followed the young woman out. The dining room was a heck of a lot busier than the kitchen! Zachary ran around like a crazy man getting tables cleared and cleaned throughout the night. He lost track of time but that suited him just fine. He was making the server’s jobs much easier, and that made the hard work that much more rewarding. Well, until he noticed two people sitting at a table in the far corner. The woman wasn’t one he knew, but the man…

Cheating bastard!

He hadn’t realized he’d been glaring until the woman motioned for the man to turn around. That’s when their eyes met, and Zachary’s anger hit an all-time high. His father smiled and winked, then turned back to his flavor of the week.

No doubt you’re here while mom is at her yoga class.

Hatred welled in his chest, something he rarely felt. His hands tightened on the bin and cloth he held, just begging him to dump the waste he currently carried over the scum’s head. The only thing that prevented him from doing it was a strong hand clutching his elbow, pulling him backward until he was in the hallway leading to Orion’s room. It was off-limits for guests and most employees, so he wasn’t surprised when he was suddenly tugged down into a familiar lap and hugged tight.

There were no words, but he didn’t need them. When Orion’s hand began to sift through his hair Zachary immediately leaned into the slight pressure. He felt like a cat. No matter where Orion touched him, he couldn’t stop himself from pushing against him. When he felt lips warm his cheek he tilted his head and let their lips met. All of his stress poured into the kiss, turning it heated and aggressive. Orion seemed surprised by it, but he didn’t hesitate to meet Zachary’s fervent attention with his own. When he leaned away slightly to get a breath he got up on his knees, straddling Orion’s lap with the intent to move back in and start doing much more rated R things.

“Sweetheart.”

He could hear the groan in Orion’s voice. The yearning for him to move his hips faster. To kiss more. Touch more. Zach tried to go further, just wanting to lose himself and forgot that he’d just seen his dad cheating on his mom again, but Orion’s firm hands ended up grasping his hips, forcing them to stop.

“Zachary, please. I wish I could say that I understand, but I’ve only known you for a short time. I want to help though, but not in this way. Sweetheart, as much as I’d love to have sex with you, right now is just not the time.”

Zach heaved a frustrated sigh and tugged at the strong leather wrapped around Orion’s chest half-heartedly. “Why does he have to keep cheating on her?”

His words were whispered, but Orion still seemed to hear them.

“I don’t know, sweetheart.” He whispered as he gently pressed his fingers beneath Zach’s chin and lifted it so that their eyes could meet. “But I know that he doesn’t deserve to have you as a son, or your mother as a wife.”

Zachary wasn’t very surprised that he had guessed that the man was his father. They did look fairly similar, right down to their hair and eye color. Thankfully, that’s where the similarities ended.

“Zachary?”

Blinking out of his thoughts of his horrible father, Zach looked back up.

“Your shift ended over an hour ago…”

Oh.

After a moment of tense silence they both got to their feet and headed to Orion’s room. Zachary operated mechanically when he stepped inside, brushing his teeth and flossing before trudging toward the door that lead into the storeroom, and ultimately, outside. He was extremely grateful that Orion didn’t stop him, even though he could feel the man’s eyes on him until he disappeared out into the chilly night. Taking a deep breath, Zachary relished in the cold as he made the two block walk to his alley. It felt like forever since he’d been there, but as he stepped into the dark area it didn’t quite feel like home anymore.

Of course not. You don’t have a home.

Shaking that thought from his head, Zach straightened and walked to the end before turning around and sliding down against the worn bricks until he could feel the cold snow soak through his jeans. It was familiar, but that was all it was.

This is your chance to think away from him though. You need to focus.

And he tried, really, really hard. He thought about his job first, glad that he finally had a paycheck coming. He then thought about Orion, and more importantly, his lifestyle. The leather didn’t really bother him because Orion had already proved that he was trustworthy. The man himself was almost too perfect, though he had managed to catch him by surprise a few times.

Yeah, when you burnt his butt.

Grinning to himself, Zach shivered and hunched, wrapping his arms around his knees.

He’s so sweet though.

Remembering the moment when he’d said that he loved him earlier made all of the cold vanish for a brief few seconds. He wasn’t used to hearing those words. It had been a very long time since his parents had said them, and he never really had anyone to call a significant other. Leaning back, he let the gusty winter chill meet his face. Snow began to drift downward but he ignored it as a grin appeared on his lips.

He loves me.

His eyes widened, shocked at the realization he had just brushed off earlier.

He loves me.

Stumbling to his numbing feet, Zachary clenched his fists and shook his head. He’d had nothing, and then all of a sudden he got a man that cared enough about him to love him. And not just say the word, either. Orion had proved it by feeding him, buying him clothing, and giving him a place to sleep.

And he’d asked for nothing in return if I wasn’t comfortable.

Swallowing past a lump in his throat, Zach walked through the deepening snow until he got out of his alley and turned toward the club.

“Orion…?”

He was standing right there on the sidewalk, holding up the coat that he’d bought Zach as if he were just offering it to him to try on and see if it fit again.

“Oh uh, hey Zachary. You forgot your coat…”

He held the jacket a little higher while looking away for a second, then refocusing back on him.

You’re the real sweetheart, Orion.

With a tired smile Zachary stepped forward, sliding his arms through the jacket’s sleeves backwards so that he could hug the guy faster. When his arms came around him and Zachary inhaled to take in the scent of mint, he felt like he was home.

They remained that way for several quiet minutes before Orion pressed a kiss to Zach’s soft hair and whispered against it. “Can I get a retry for a possible date number two?”

Instead of answering verbally, Zach just gave a tired chuckle and got up on his toes to press a kiss to Orion’s cold lips.

Two

Having Zachary tucked in his arms, protected from the biting cold, was the best feeling in the world to Orion. He didn’t want to let go, to leave his boy to go back to that cold, disgusting alley… but he had to. With a fake smile, he leaned back. He’d intended to tell Zachary to come back when he was finished thinking, not wanting him to stay outside all night, but instead he just grasped his two chilly hands and squeezed. When Zachary just smiled, Orion licked his dry lips and turned to walk away.

He got about five steps away before soft, cold fingers slid into his. Immediately Orion stopped and turned, his eyes widening in eager hope. “Zachary?” The younger man opened his mouth to speak, taking a step closer to the point where they were nearly flush against each other. He ended up unable to speak, just like Orion had been previously, and instead shifted his coat so that it rested on his shoulders correctlly, then reached forward again to take Orion’s hand in his. The gesture read loud and clear to Orion, even though neither of them had spoken about it.

When they finally stepped back through the alley door and into the warmth of the club, Orion couldn’t help but sigh in relief. He wanted to scoop Zachary up and cuddle him right where they stood, but he had a feeling that his boy might still be overwhelmed so he withheld, barely. This is going to be harder than I thought. They were just stepping into his bedroom and already he wanted to have his hands on Zachary. 

“Hey Orion?”

Blinking, he gave his head a jerky shake and put on a smile. He might not be able to touch him very much, but at least he wasn’t sitting outside freezing without dinner. “Yes, sweetheart?”

Zachary had walked over to his nightstand and was now holding up the book he’d been reading. “Um, can we maybe read a little?”

It was already really late but there was no way Orion would say no to Zach’s hopeful face. “Of course. You need to get warmed up first though, okay? Your pants are wet and you look pale from the cold.”

Zach glanced down at his pants, then turned so that he could see his damp backside. “Oh.” Orion chuckled quietly and nodded for him to go shower real quick.

“I’ll go get some dinner ready while you shower, okay?”

The look on his face spelled relief, but that was okay. Orion knew he needed some time, and likely had expected him to follow him into the shower. With a curt nod Orion stepped out and headed to the kitchen, making a simple dinner of mini chocolate chip and blueberry pancakes. He thought about grabbing some bacon or another protein, but eating a ton before bed wasn’t usually a good idea. So, he made about ten small pancakes and tossed them on a plate with a small takeout container of syrup before grabbing a big glass of water and heading back to his room. He’d intended to grab a second cup, but balancing wasn’t his forte, at least not at four in the morning.

When he opened the door to his room and stepped inside, he couldn’t help but grin. Zachary had gotten the pillows propped up and was leaning against some of them with the blankets pulled up to his lap. He already had the book open, though as Orion walked over to set the tray down in Zach’s lap, he noticed that he had only just begun reading the second chapter.

As Zachary started digging into the chocolate pancakes– of course –Orion slid carefully into bed and remained atop the blankets to make sure that his boy was comfortable, then leaned back against the pillows and grabbed the cup of water for a sip before setting it back down on the tray and grabbing a blueberry pancake. As he chewed, Orion glanced at the title for the chapter and nearly spit his mouthful of pancake out.

Bonding over Bondage.

Worry immediately settled in his belly as they got ready to read the book. He let Zachary start reading aloud and just skimmed along, willing to help if needed. They just munched on pancakes for around twenty minutes while reading before they got to the eighth page. There was a fully drawn example with the outlines of people, focusing in on the leather bindings. The image was directing whoever was reading on how to wrap a basic binding on your partner’s arm.

Glancing sideways, Orion noticed a faint blush on Zachary’s cheeks. “Um, we already did this so, um, we’ll skip this example.” Orion grinned and nodded, listening as Zach continued reading. He needed help in a few places, but Orion just quietly slipped in words whenever he struggled, allowing the reading to continue. Several more diagrams were skipped that involved wrapping leather on your own arms, and also the chest piece they’d already done. The next time they stopped was the last diagram, which involved one of Orion’s favorite things. Hands.

Zachary was already looking at him when he glanced up from the book. He seemed nervous, but after checking that the diagram was the last thing in the chapter, Zach actually scooted out of bed once he handed Orion the book and went into the closet where he knew the leather was stored. He returned with the thick leather wrap they’d used previously to tie his arms, then climbed back into bed. Orion was eager to get the leather in his hands, but when Zachary scooted behind him, his brow furrowed with a glance over his shoulder.

“Um… can you maybe hold the book open for me?”

Orion was about to ask him if he could hold it open while he tied his hands, but when he noticed Zachary tugging the leather through his fingers, he understood. Putting his hands together behind his back, he wiggled his fingers and Zachary got the book situated in them, open to the page with the diagram example. The next several minutes Orion stayed as still as he could as he felt Zachary’s adorable fingers carefully wrap the leather around his wrists. With just a few directions to fix tightness and positioning from him, Zachary managed to tie his wrists together quite well. Orion tested the leather, trying to pull his wrists apart, and was more than proud when he couldn’t.

“You did very well, Zachary.”

Orion expected him to undo the bindings once he was praised, but to his surprise Zachary actually made his way onto his lap. Not that he was upset about that, at all, but it was a bit shocking. “Sweetheart?” Before he could say anything else, Zachary had his lips on his. Again, not a negative, ever, but now he was really confusing him. Screw it. Orion responded eagerly, nipping at Zachary’s lips until he opened up and their tongues danced together. He tasted deliciously sweet, just like the chocolate chip pancakes he’d claimed from dinner.

As the kiss got heated Orion struggled against the bindings, needing to put his hands on his boy, but no matter what he did the leather stayed firm. He wasn’t mad about it by any means, but it had been so long since he’d been the one bound… “Orion?”

Groaning quietly, Orion licked his wet lips and blinked open his eyes to see Zachary panting but a few inches from his nose. “Yes, sweetheart?” He almost said yes again, just wanting his boy to keep doing whatever the heck he wanted as long as it involved them touching somewhere, but he managed to keep the word to himself.

“Do you know why it took me such a short time to come back from my alley?”

Orion could tell that Zachary was a little nervous considering his quiet, hesitant tone, so he slowly shook his head and smiled reassuringly. “Why, Zachary?”

He opened his mouth but paused for a moment, sitting down in Orion’s lap. It took a lot of effort to keep down a moan at his added weight, but Orion somehow managed it.

“I-I think um… I don’t know how to say it.” Zachary mumbled the last half of his sentence as he hunched, looking down as his hands worried in between them. It was killing Orion to sit with his hands still bound, unable to do anything, but he had to trust him. That’s what a good portion of the bondage represented.

“Sweetheart, is there anything I can say to help you figure out how to say it? Because I desperately want to hear anything you would like to tell me.”

Zachary’s cheeks reddened further but he looked back up. “Um… c-can you say what you did before?”

Orion frowned slightly, trying to quickly go back through his memory for anything important he may have said. A few things stuck out from the rest, but one in particular made him smile wide and lean forward so that his lips were just barely against Zachary’s.

“I’m going to pick my most favorite thing I’ve said recently, and I hope that it’s exactly what you want to hear right now.”

When Zachary’s eyes only widened Orion flicked his tongue out and licked the guy’s soft lips. “I love you, sweetheart.”

Immediately Zachary burst into tears, making Orion flinch and blanch with worry. He struggled with his bindings, confused, thinking that he’d said the wrong thing. However, when arms suddenly came around his neck in a strong hug, he froze. “I-I don’t understand. It f-feels like I have t-to be near you or I’m not whole. I-I’ve never felt this w-way before.”

“It’s confusing for you, isn’t it sweetheart?” Orion whispered as he turned his head to nuzzle against Zachary’s soft hair. He nodded and sniffed, but then tilted his head so that it rested on Orion’s shoulder, allowing their eyes to meet. It hurt to see the red lining Zach’s eyes, but Orion bit back his words, knowing that his boy still had more to say. And boy was he right.

“Orion… I-I think I love you, too.”

Bless you, Zachary.

“I thought that being told what to do would be frustrating. I-I don’t like being told what to do when I’m not working… but with you it feels like a completely different thing. Like you’re not telling me what to do, but I’m waiting for requests I can’t wait to fulfill for you.”

Orion nodded, then leaned over and pressed a soft kiss to Zach’s nose.

“I feel very much the same, except, while I do not mind doing most things requested of me, to reason, I feel overjoyed when I request something myself, and someone enjoys accomplishing it.”

Zachary gave him a faint smile, then yawned. Orion mirrored the action before chuckling. “Would you please undo my wrists, sweetheart, so that I can devour your adorable mouth before bed?”

With burning cheeks Zachary nodded, moving off of Orion’s lap and around his back to work. He freed Orion’s wrists after a minute, then yelped when he tackled him to the blanket. They were both laughing from the action, then slowly their chuckles dissolved as their mouths melded together and quiet, content moaning took over.

Orion had planned to spend the night worrying about his sweet Zachary sitting in a cold alleyway, shivering by himself, without his secure arms around him. Now, as he pulled his adorable, breathless boy into his lap, he couldn’t have felt any more the opposite. He’d planned to curl up with Zachary after they’d finished kissing and fall asleep with him tucked against his chest, but as he watched his sweetheart drift off in his arms, Orion just couldn’t bring himself to lie down just yet. Instead, he found himself gently rubbing his thumb along Zachary’s kiss-reddened lips as he got comfortable against the stacked pillows.

I’m afraid that if I close my eyes, I’ll wake up and you’ll be outside in the cold.

Grinning to himself, Orion gave his head a minute shake and leaned forward to press a gentle kiss to Zachary’s hair.

I suppose I’ll just have to stay up a tiny bit longer and watch my angel rest right where he should be. Just to be sure that this isn’t just a dream.

Heat

“George?” David mumbled groggily. He felt faint movement next to him, but not enough to show that the guy had woken up yet. He really didn’t want to wake him up, and considered trying to keep quiet through the growing pain, but the medicine had long-since worn off and he was at his limit.

“George, please, it hurts.”

That plea, thankfully, managed to get through to the tired man. He sat up, not bothering to cover a huge yawn before getting out of the bed and walking around to grab the bottle of pills that would offer David sweet relief from the pain once more. Except, when George picked up the bottle and opened it, he frowned and poured out the one single pill left.

“I need to go get some more,” he said quietly as he headed for the bathroom and got David a cup of water to take the medicine. One pill wouldn’t help much, but he was desperate and inhaled it the second he got it and the cup in his hands.

“I’ll go get you a refill.” George said, drawing David’s attention away from the empty paper cup in his hand to the clock on the nightstand, then up to George. “It’s really late. I’ll be okay until later. You should sleep.” 

The guy frowned and leaned over, surprising David as he pressed a hand to his forehead, then slid his fingers down to his cheek. “Are you feeling hot?” He questioned as he let his other hand settle on David’s other cheek. The worry in George’s eyes was unsettling, making David automatically want to try and break the tension.

“I know you’re always a hot hunk of awesome, or whatever, but seriously. It feels like you’ve got a fever.”

Well, he did feel hot, but he’d already gone to the emergency room for his burns, and imposed on George a lot. Asking him to take him to the doctor for a simple fever wasn’t something he wanted to do.

“Come on, you. We’re going to the ER. They can give you a pain reliever while the doctor checks you out.”

The ER for a fever! “Not the ER, I just have a fever. Take me to a walk-in clinic or something.”

George didn’t look happy, but after a moment of silent thought he nodded and reached down, scooping David up into his arms and straight out the door. While he could walk, David didn’t bother arguing with George to put him down. It felt good to be in his arms. Once in George’s car David settled in, letting his eyes close as the medicine began to take effect. It wasn’t a full dose, so he could definitely still feel the burns, but it did take the edge off of it, and for that, he was grateful.

He had no idea how, but sleep overtook him and he didn’t wake up until he felt someone gently shaking his shoulder. It took a good amount of effort to even open his eyes, but when he saw a man leaning over in front of him with a worried look, he forced himself to try and come around more.

“Hey, you scared us. Your friend and I have been trying to wake you up for awhile now.”

David blinked, nearly letting his eyes close again as sleep called to him. A gentle squeeze on his shoulder made him push through the clouds in his mind, however, and open his eyes again.

“Can you tell me your name, Sir?” The doctor asked as he began pressing his stethoscope against David’s skin as George held up his shirt partway.

“David…” He replied in a hushed whisper before yawning. The doctor nodded and gave a small smile as he stood back up and wrote on a chart. “Can you open your mouth for me please, David?”

He did as told, allowing the doctor to put a thermometer beneath his tongue. It was removed a minute later and set aside so that the doctor could write the temperature down. He then pulled up a seat David hadn’t noticed was nearby and took a seat so that they were at eye level.

“Well, you’ve got a fever of one-hundred and three. It’s not life threatening, but it’s not good. While you were asleep I checked out your leg for infection, though I’m surprised that didn’t wake you up since your friend said you were having a lot of trouble with the pain over the last few days.”

David just nodded slightly against George’s firm chest, glad that the man was holding him up and in his lap, or he would have likely just fallen to the floor.

“I didn’t see any outward signs of infection but there could easily be something there causing the high fever. I’m going to prescribe you something that should take care of any possible infection and also a strong fever reducer, okay?”

“Alright, thank you Doctor,” George answered for him, obviously taking the hint that David wasn’t really able to respond anymore.

The next thing David awoke to was the feeling of sweet, sweet relief. He could tell that he was naked and judging from the water slowly rising on his body, he was in the bathtub. “Jesus, finally. I knew I should have taken you to the damn emergency room.”

David tried to lift his head, but quickly gave up and just rolled it to the right on the towel it rested on as he opened one eye partway. “Hey… George.”

“Don’t you ‘hey George’ me. Take these before I shove them down your throat.”

Before he could respond there were three pills pressed against his lips, which he took into his mouth, then chased down with a paper cup of water that replaced them. The water was icy, telling him that George had likely gotten it from the kitchen and not the bathroom sink, or even had ice from the freezer in the bathroom.

Come to think of it.

The bath water was also colder than he thought possible, and when he glanced down, he grinned like a dork, noticing ice floating in the water. “Here, drink more. The doctor wants your body flooded. Orion is making some food and you’ll be eating it whether you want to or not.”

Are you sure you’re not a dominant? David thought with a faint laugh. George didn’t seem intrigued and instead held another cup of water to his lips. “Drink.”

He did, finishing the cup right when Orion walked into the bathroom with a plate of food that made David’s stomach turn. Thankfully Orion didn’t get a chance to fuss over him because George wasn’t in any kind of mood to put with the other guy after being woken up after a double shift. Not to mention having to rush David to the clinic, then to pick up his medicine. At least those pills were working quickly, making him feel a bit loopy and tired at the same time.

“I swear if you start giggling like a little girl I’m gonna smack you one.”

Of course, David knew he was joking, but he couldn’t help responding. He did giggle, but then winked and sloppily licked his lower lip.

“Dammit. I should have known better to say that to a pervy sub.” George grumbled as he grabbed the plate Orion had left on the counter and brought it around. The smell alone made David’s nose crinkle with distaste, but the man didn’t seem to notice. Or really, he didn’t give a damn as he began shoving small spoonfuls of egg into David’s mouth. After a few gags he thankfully stopped, but that wasn’t the end of it. George set the plate aside for the moment, however, and got David up and out of the tub. He set him down on the sink counter just long enough to dry him decently well, then carefully situated him in bed, propped up against the pillows. He then disappeared for a moment, only to return with a few pieces of cut up bell pepper that had likely been on the plate behind the eggs.

Oh… now that I might be able to stomach!

David had only ever told Orion about his addiction to them, but the guy had evidently remembered, even after a year. When George settled down on the edge of the bed right next to him and lifted a piece of pepper near his lips, David did his best to try and take it hesitantly, but hell, he couldn’t help but go after it hungrily. He hadn’t eaten much of anything in the past few days so even with his head cloudy and hot from his fever, he couldn’t turn away the deliciously sweet pepper. When he heard George give a loud sigh of relief, his appetite suddenly skyrocketed.

He was worried…

“Here, another,” George said quietly as he offered a second piece of pepper. Wanting to make the man happy, David opened his mouth to let George place the food on his tongue. He chewed slowly, savoring the tiny bit of flavor he could taste through his growing sickness before swallowing. George continued to feed him slowly over the next several minutes, until he ran out of piece of pepper.

“You stay here, and awake, got it? I’m going to get more and you’re going to eat it.”

Without bothering to give David a chance to respond, again, George ducked out of the room.

It was an incredible relief to finally get some food into David. He didn’t know it yet, but it was already well into the next day and while he was due to work soon, George had already called Xena and told her that he would likely not be able to considering David’s current condition. She’d had no problem with it, glad that she did at least have an extra bouncer she could call in.

Stepping into the kitchen, he noticed Zachary already busily working on prep and gave the kid a slight smile. In return he got a far-too-bright beaming one. “Good morning, George!”

He grunted in response, then noticed exactly what Zachary had already cut up, still sitting on the far end of his cutting board. Instead of asking, he quickly walked over and gathered up a decent handful of the sliced bell pepper, then disappeared back through the kitchen doors before the guy could complain. Not that he was likely too. He’d probably just go about cutting another pepper with a happy grin on his face.

Returning to his room, George figured he’d easily be able to feed David, then hopefully get a few hours of sleep, but when he saw the guy out cold on the pillows, he heaved a sigh and set the peppers down on the plate he’d left on the nightstand. Now he was left with a decision to make. He could wake David up and make him eat more, or he could let him sleep, which he also needed to do. Either way, he did walk back to the bathroom and unplug the tub so that it could drain, then grabbed a clean washcloth and wet it with cool water before returning to David. With very careful motions he dotted at David’s damp skin, removing building sweat on his forehead and cheeks, as well as cooling him down.

In all honestly, he’d scared the hell out of him with his fever and he still wanted to take him to the hospital, but since he finally managed to get to sleep, George decided to let him rest. Unfortunately, he himself had trouble falling asleep now. Every time he thought about lying down he noticed David beginning to pant from the heat of his sickness or his cloth needed rinsed and reapplied.

By the time he was due for another dose of medication George felt like he might be the one sick, from lack of sleep, if anything. David awoke almost like clockwork, groaning as his leg began to hurt. Thankfully his fever had broken though, so he was a bit more coherent when he did wake up.

“Good morning, princess.” George said as he handed David a cup of water and his pills. The guy took them without a word, but when he glanced toward the bathroom, George knew he had to go. It was understandable, because he had basically forced the guy to drink a ton of water before he fell asleep earlier.

Without a word George lifted him into his arms and carefully got David to the toilet. When it was clear that he needed to do more than pee, he got him situated sitting, then stepped out until he had finished his business. When he came back in he made a face, making David chuckle weakly before he helped the guy up so that he could wash his hands. To his surprise, once he scrubbed them he ducked them back under the water, but then lifted them to rub along his face, neck, and chest. His fever had broken earlier, but when David repeated the action, trying to get his back, George figured he could at least help the guy.

So, he got him seated on the toilet seat once he shut the lid, facing partially away from him. He then dipped his hands into the bowl of ice he’d gotten, which had all-but-melted into chilly water by now. When he put his cold hands on David’s back the guy’s muscles flexed beneath his fingers, but then immediately relaxed as his whole body sagged with relief.

“That feels so good.”

David sounded so much better than he had in days with just that simple action so George gladly repeated it, eventually moving to his arms and unhurt leg, too. When he was on his fifth go he paused, feeling David shift uncomfortably and try to hunch. George knew what he was trying to hide and thought he might be put-off again, but he didn’t feel any different this time, even as his hands rested against David’s slowly moving chest. His ears were bright red, which was understandable as well, but what George couldn’t understand, was why his own heart was beating at a speed nearly twice that of David’s.

Moving Forward

It had been several days since Orion had told Zachary that he wanted to try a second date, but work had gotten ridiculously busy, and then yesterday David had looked half-dead and required a doctor’s visit. Today though, finally, the guy looked a good deal better and Zach had finished prep work early. That left them with about five hours until they had to start getting ready for their shifts. Orion was already dressed in a pair of black slacks, a white dress shirt, and surprisingly, his hair tied back. It was barely long enough to make a ponytail, but he was nervous, and when he got nervous he messed with his hair. The only way he’d learned to keep that from happening was to tie it back, out of reach.

“Master?”

Glancing up from his freshly-polished boots, Orion forced himself not to lick his lips at the sight of Zachary in just a pair of easily-removed maroon boxers. Dear god, he could eat him up right there… after tying him up, of course. And putting on a condom. His thoughts added before he mentally chastised himself.

“Would you like to pick out my outfit?”

Grinning, Orion nodded and turned to walk into his closet. He knew judging from the blush on Zach’s cheeks that he likely felt like a Ken doll being dressed up by its owner, but he hoped he’d get used it. Heck, even being asked to choose the outfit, even though the guy was embarrassed, made Orion feel amazing.

My Ken doll!

Of course he knew the difference, though sadly, there were some dominants who didn’t. As he sifted through the clothing he’d bought for Zach, he thought how much he was going to make the guy’s life change. Even more so than he already had. I’ll make him never think about that alley ever again. Grinning at the thought, he nodded and walked out of the closet to present Zachary with a pair of black jeans and a slightly worn light blue button-up. Before they headed for the door he tossed Zachary his jacket, then pulled on one of his own black ones and took his hand. “Shall we?”

Zachary grinned up at him and nodded, squeezing Orion’s fingers as they walked outside hand in hand. They strode past the car, silently telling Zachary that they were going to somewhere close by. When they walked up to a restaurant only a block away and Orion held the door open, Zachary paused, looking up at the name, then inside.

“This is really fancy…”

Orion grinned and settled his hand against Zach’s back to urge him inside. The place was nice, but fancy? Not really. He kept his mouth shut in that matter, however, not wanting to make Zachary feel awkward. It was likely fancy to him, so he let it be just that.

With a content smile Orion stepped up to the hostess and told her his name for his reservation, which he’d made the previous night. She smiled and grabbed two menus, then asked them to follow her. They were seated in the far corner in the back, comfortably away from the noisier groups. The young woman set their menus down and told them that their waiter would be right with them. And he was, in only a moment a man walked over… and seeing him made Orion want to grab Zachary and go somewhere else. Anywhere else.

“Well hello there, Orion.” Brendon said with a carefully twisted smile on his face.

Don’t react. Don’t react.

“Hello, I’d like a Coke. Zachary?” He asked, not bothering to even look at Brendon. Zach seemed to catch the hint and just smiled and requested a Sprite. Since he got no rise from either of them, Brendon thankfully just grumbled and stalked off to fill their drink orders.

Not wanting to dwell on him for a second on his date with his sweetheart, Orion leaned over and pointed out several things on the menu Zachary was starting to go through. “These are really delicious.”

Before he could respond Orion moved his arm over the prices on the side and smirked. “What would you like, sweetheart? No looking at prices. In fact, if you ask for something less than ten dollars I’ll make you order something else, too, and we’ll just have to take one of them home if you can’t finish both.”

The look on Zachary’s face was split between surprise and frustration, but when Orion didn’t move his arm, he sighed and began browsing through the options.

“Um… can I get the grilled salmon dinner?”

Moving his arm, Orion glanced down at the price and noted that it was indeed over ten. Fourteen, to be exact. “Sounds good.” He replied right as Brendon returned with their drinks. “We’re ready to order.” Orion said, only waiting until Brendon pulled out his little order pad before speaking. “I’d like the steak dinner with a side of mashed potatoes and spinach.”

Brendon pursed his lips and wrote down the order, then turned his glare to Zachary. Orion thought he might fidget from the intense stare but was pleasantly surprised when Zach straightened in his seat and smiled. “I’d like the grilled salmon dinner with a side of sweet potato fries and mixed vegetables.”

Having not gotten the rise he wanted for a second time, Brendon scribbled down Zachary’s order, then grabbed the menus before strutting away. His hips even swished as if he were trying to garner Orion’s attention, but the moment Brendon had turned away Orion moved his eyes to his boy and he leaned forward, hands clasped on the table.

“So, I wanted to talk to you about something.”

Sure this was a date, but he knew both of them didn’t want to dig into their pasts, so he was going to focus on their future… which would hopefully be intertwined. Just the idea made him giddy, but he knew he had to keep himself from scaring the guy by not going to get a wedding ring already.

Slow down, buddy.

“Sure.” Zachary replied simply, having no idea that Orion’s mind was thinking a bit too far into the future.

“So uh, well, I wanted to ask you… what is it that you see yourself doing as a career in the future?”

The question seemed to surprise Zachary, because he didn’t even try to put together an answer for several minutes. When he did finally manage one, it was just a simple, “What?”

Orion had a feeling that would be his complete response. Of course Zach wouldn’t be thinking about a career when he was barely surviving just a few weeks ago on the streets. Smiling calmly, Orion tried to look relaxed as he gave a careful response.

“What did you like to do in high school? What were your favorite classes?”

That question seemed much easier to answer, because Zach quickly smiled and cheerfully said “Math!”

Oh? Orion thought as his grin widened a bit. “What type of math?”

“Any! I’m really good at math. I was in honors calculus before I had to get my GED. It was really fun.”

Calculus? Geez. I’ve only ever gone up to algebra II.

“Wow, that’s amazing, Zachary.”

He blushed and shrugged, but the excited gleam in his eyes couldn’t be hidden.

“Well, Xena’s been heckling me about possibly starting college to get a degree in business and then help her run the place. Maybe eventually even become a partner.”

Zachary’s embarrassment completely vanished as he grew excited for him. So adorable. 

“That is awesome, Orion!” He said in an excited but hushed whisper as to not disturb other diners. If they weren’t out to dinner he would pull the guy into arms, but since he had to act civilized, Orion just replied with a smile. “I’m excited to give it a shot, even though it’s been awhile since high school.”

Zachary nodded but his smile never wavered. “You’ll do great, and if you need any help with math, I’d love to try some college level problems!”

I wanna hug you so badly!

“Well, how about we take a few classes together online?”

He knew they didn’t have much time to actually go into a campus, but it was really easy to get simple degrees completely online. Their food came before Zach could respond, giving them both a moment to just enjoy the meal and ignore Brendon’s continued glowering. While he normally ordered the same thing when he came to the restaurant and knew that it was amazing, he couldn’t wait to see Zachary’s face when he tasted his food. He wasn’t disappointed, either. His boy’s face lit up as he quickly took another bite. Then another and another.

“You are so cute.”

The question about college had completely taken him off guard, but when their food came and he took his first, nothing else seemed to matter besides inhaling the piece of yummy fish placed before him. He was already half done with it when he heard Orion speak, making him glance up from his meal, a little embarrassed.

“It’s really good.” He mumbled, staring down at his fish before a piece of steak slid onto his plate. His eyes jerked up to meet Orion’s gorgeous ones. “Try mine.”

“Oh, h-here. Try mine, too.” Zachary mumbled as he cut a piece from his fish and slipped it onto Orion’s plate.

“Thank you, sweetheart.”

“You’re welcome,” he replied before eating the piece Orion had given him. Without even realizing it he began to drool, only figuring it out when Orion started to snicker, then pointed to the side of his lips when Zach looked up.

Oh man!

Grabbing a napkin, he jerked it up to his mouth as his cheeks heated. Brendon returned with the check while he wiped at his mouth, then silently went back to eating his meal. They finished a few minutes later, but after Orion glanced at the bill, he actually handed it across the table to him. He took it, of course, but he hadn’t even gotten paid for his first week or work yet, so he had no idea how he could pay.

“Can you do the math for the total and fifteen percent tip please? I need to use the restroom.”

Oh!

“Sure, no problem.” Zachary quickly said as he grabbed the pen and began writing numbers in the total slot. He spent a few seconds double-checking the total, then did the tip amount and wrote it in. The entire few moments that he was working he could feel eyes on him… and they weren’t friendly. It was frustrating. Obviously Brendon had an issue with him, or likely more specifically, Orion, but glaring at them the entire time while they ate was completely unprofessional and he was sick of it.

Turning in his seat, Zachary stared up at Brendon, who had his arms crossed over his chest like he was Mr. High and Mighty. Hmph. Well, time to knock him down a notch. “You are an extremely rude server and while I have no memory of you beside the one where you walked in on me in the shower for some reason I’d rather not know, and tied me up, I have done absolutely nothing to you. Thus, you must be mad at Orion for something.”

Standing, Zach straightened to his full height and narrowed his eyes.

“Grow up and talk to him like a man if you have a problem with him, and if you can’t manage that, then just get over it and move on. The only thing you’re going to end up doing is getting yourself fired by glaring at guests and stressing yourself out.”

Brendon blinked, seemingly taken aback by Zachary’s words. He hadn’t shouted, but they were staring each other down anyways, beginning to draw attention in the large restaurant.

“Hey sweetheart. Let’s get going.” Orion said as he stepped between them and checked what Zachary had written on the bill. He smiled, then tossed two twenties and a ten on the table before putting an arm around Zach’s shoulders and guiding him to the front of the restaurant, then outside.

“Oh my god I’m so proud of you!” Orion said excitedly as he scooped Zachary into his arms for a too-tight hug. He was confused at first, but then something dawned on him as he was being set down.

“You heard what I said to him?”

Orion moved in for a kiss, right there in the middle of the busy sidewalk! Zachary was too startled to do anything but kiss him back for the brief moment their lips were connected. “Oh heck yes, and I couldn’t have said what you did any better!”

“Oh?” It was a shock, but a good one, he supposed. Zach wasn’t normally one to speak his mind when he was upset, but there was no excuse for Brendon to be so rude while they were spending money at the restaurant where he worked and basically helped fund his paycheck.

When Orion offered his hand, Zachary took it with a content smile. “Orion? Why is he upset with you?” He wouldn’t normally ask a personal question, especially to someone he hadn’t even known for a month, but considering Brendon had been glaring mostly at him throughout the meal, he felt he should at least get a basic summary.

“Well, he’s actually the first person I tried to date when I began to learn about dom-sub relationships. He taught me a lot about it, and also made me realize that there were different levels. Those were only reinforced when I tried to date David.”

Zachary grinned, remembering that George’s new charge liked things a little too rough for Orion’s comfort. “I’m guessing he gets jealous easily and doesn’t like to let things go?”

“Nope! He’s frustratingly-clingy.” Orion replied as they stepped inside, then stopped abruptly when he turned to face Zach. “Um… am I clingy? I mean, I guess I am, but does it bother you? I can try to back off a little if I am…” Reaching up, Zachary pressed a finger over Orion’s lips to keep him from continuing to babble. He could barely see the man besides his outline and a faint bit of his face and arm because of the hint of light from the bedroom beyond the closed door to their left.

“Master, I’ve lived on the streets for three years. I’ve been waiting for someone to see me for anything worth being close to. My friend at the grocery store, you, and George are really the only three that have ever really bothered with me.”

Feeling Orion’s arms wrap around him settled Zach’s nerves as he was tugged against the larger man, happy to rest his head against his firm chest.

“I’m very happy to hear that, sweetheart.”

Grinning, Zachary looked up at Orion’s shadowed face and grinned. “In fact, I’m feeling a little extra clingy right now. We should still have a few hours before we have to get ready for work… can we read another chapter from your book?”

Zach felt Orion chuckle before he leaned over and pressed a kiss to his nose.

“Of course, Zachary. I have a request to ask of you first though.”

Tilting his head in curiosity, Zach gave a slight nod. “Okay.”

Orion turned him, leaving one arm around his back to guide him toward his bedroom door.

“Sign up for two college classes with me?”

Grrr

“Dammit, open wider you little twink!” George growled in frustration as David glared at him. Both of them were already panting. George from anger and David from being a little bastard! “I swear to god I’m going to force it down your throat if you don’t start cooperating!”

They’d been at it for nearly five minutes already and George was seriously about to shove the toothbrush down the guy’s throat, or up his ass. Whichever got his inside bits cleaner, faster. Ever since David had caught him staring at him several days ago he hadn’t let up on the innuendos and continuous jabs! His leg was thankfully healing well and should only need a few more weeks of antibiotics and likely less days of pain killers.

Doesn’t look like he’s in any pain right now… maybe I should change that with the toothbrush.

Of course he knew that would just likely result in him getting off again, just like he had when George had grabbed his hair too tightly during one of the guy’s frustrating pervy joke runs.

“I will take that collar off right now if you don’t brush your damn teeth,” he finally growled as he held the toothbrush up to David, who was sitting on the bathroom counter by the sink in a pair of dark blue boxers.

Thankfully David finally seemed to give up, grabbing the brush and shoving it in his mouth with a grunt. While he brushed George flossed his own teeth, having already scrubbed them before getting in the hygiene fight with David.

“Why can’t we just give each other hand jobs or somethingggg? I know you’re interested and I’m more than willing, Master George.”

Stop calling me that, dammit.

He wanted to say it aloud, again, but just like the last fifteen times, the command would likely fall on deaf ears. Or selective hearing ears, more likely. If he even came close to uttering a word having to do with undressing, showers, baths, or cooking, the guy would perk up and smile like he’d just given him a puppy. But nope, he heard little else. Thankfully he understood that his hands had to be kept to himself.

“I have no idea what you see in me that would make you want to touch my dick.”

That had David stuttering into silence. Thought so.

“Seriously, you need to look for someone you actually want for who they are, not just what they have between their legs or the leather on their chest.”

He hunched with each word George said, making the man stand taller. Reassured in his idea. When David still didn’t speak, he turned to walk back into his room and get into bed. Normally he’d carry David, but he was pissed so the guy could just walk himself. Or hop.

“I am…”

What?

Turning, George walked back into the dimly lit bathroom and stared down at David with a hard glare.

“What?”

It took several quiet moments before David finally looked up. Oh no. Don’t look at me like that. You know the answer. And stop chewing on your bottom lip. And letting your eyes get all watery. It’s not going to work, especially not on me.

“You don’t even see it, do you?”

See what?

Instead of speaking George just glared harder and crossed his arms over his chest. Since he obviously wasn’t going to get a response yet, David swallowed the lump of worry in his throat and continued.

“Why haven’t you made Orion or Xena take care of me?”

George blinked, caught a bit off guard by his random question. It made no sense to him.

“Why would I? I live here and Orion already has his new guy to look after.”

He shifted awkwardly on the edge of the counter and shrugged, then licked his lips.

“Well, why not just leave me at the hospital like the doctor suggested when I got that bad cold?”

“Weren’t you asleep when I was talking with him during that part?”

David rolled his eyes and grinned, getting a frustrated grunt from George. Evidently he hadn’t been.

“Is Xena paying you extra to take care of me here?”

George shook his head.

“Is there anything stopping you from shoving me out on the street?”

Smacking himself in the face, George heaved a frustrated sigh and shook his head.

“Seriously David? I’m not an ass! That’s why you aren’t out the door right now!”

“Yes you are.”

George fidgeted, grinding his teeth together. He couldn’t argue. He knew he was an ass, at least to most people. It was his job! “I get paid good money to be one.” He eventually relented, still not really sure where David was going with the discussion.

“You’re an asshole and I want you for who you are. Not just because you put this collar on me, and not just because you’ve taken care of me. You do realize that everything that you’ve done for me could have easily been pushed off on someone else, yet you didn’t do that, did you?”

Without saying another word George stalked back into his bedroom and fell onto the blankets. He didn’t expect David to follow right away, but when he heard the guy slip off the bathroom sink and turn off the light, then hop into his bedroom and flick that light off as well, he knew he was in trouble.

The bed depressed as David climbed in. George did his best to pretend he was asleep, even though he was still wearing his jeans from his day off. After the past few days, he wasn’t really sure he wanted to remove them when sleeping next to David. He closed his eyes, trying not to think about anything and force his mind to shut off. Unfortunately, he couldn’t help but stay awake as he felt eyes boring into his back.

Dammit all.

George rolled over, only to be put himself face to face with David’s gentle eyes. They looked almost black in the darkness with only the dull light he’d used to give David meds at night on behind him. It illuminated his face just enough for George to be able to tell that he was smiling.

“What?”

Darn, I’ve been asking him that a lot recently.

When David just continued to stare George narrowed his eyes and growled. “What!”

David finally replied, but not with what he expected by any means.

“In the butt.”

He did not just say that.

He did just say that.

Even trying his best, George just couldn’t hold back the quiet snicker that managed to struggle past his pursed lips. It was nearly mute, but David still somehow caught it, making the guy burst out laughing like a darn Kindergartner!

“Stop it, you idiot.” George growled, only making the guy laugh harder. At the same time he was struggling not to laugh as well. He’d let a tiny inkling slip out, but he refused to let it get to him any further than that. When David continued for several seconds George grabbed his pillow and slapped it over the guy’s face, then held it down. It quieted David’s laughter, but that was about it. George could still feel his chest rising and falling abruptly with chuckles, eventually making him toss the pillow against the wall with a groan.

“Come on. Go to sleep you insane demon spawn.”

David turned his head to face George.

“But I’m not tired.”

He knew he’d regret saying it, but he was tired and quite frankly, didn’t care. “Then what will make you tired, David?”

George moved onto his back and had his arm draped over his eyes, not wanting to see the expression on David’s face brought on by his words. He expected the guy to give him some super raunchy response somewhere along the lines of being tied up and licked from head to toe, or being taken over the bathtub with his hands bound, as he’d so graciously requested several times in the past few days, but when he finally got an answer, it was whispered and hesitant. And definitely not what he’d expected.

“A k-kiss on the cheek?”

Peaking beneath his arm, George glanced sideways at David, surprised.

“That’s… all you want? Then you’ll go to sleep?”

He found it hard to believe, but when David just kept staring at him with hope in his dark eyes, George actually felt that he was being truthful. God, I know I’m going to regret this… just like everything else involving this guy. But I’m tired as hell.

That’s the excuse he used to convince himself to lean over and press his lips to the guy’s cheek. It only lasted a brief second, if that, before he pulled away and turned his back on him, but he’d done it, so David better keep his end of the deal. He did, but then he decided that it was a good idea to lean his back against George’s…

I know you can finally sleep on your side now that your burns are healing, but that doesn’t mean you can just sleep against me now!

“Move.”

David gave a quiet whine but didn’t move.

“Now, David.”

He grumbled and nuzzled against the pillow they were currently sharing.

“You threw my favorite pillow.”

Oh come on!

“Use another one.”

“But I liked that one.”

“I’m going to neuter you if you don’t use another pillow.”

David snuggled in a bit more, yawning audibly before he mumbled, “I love you too, George. G’night.”

When all he heard after that were quiet snores, he knew he’d lost the argument.

Hell, that wasn’t even an argument. He won right from the beginning and the little twerp knew he would.

Looking Back

(Needed a little brake. Read a few books and took the crazy dog to a park to play fetch while the other sat at home eating his favorite bone, not wanting to bother with other dogs. They both actually hate other dogs… one goes after them while the other just wants to be sprayed by the hose and play with her ball lol)

Math was the bane of his existence! How Zachary could be smiling as he leaned over the textbook in Orion’s lap and easily manipulate problem after problem, was far beyond him. In fact, while he had asked for his help and really, honestly, appreciated it, Orion had stopped listening three problems ago and instead was focusing on the gentle mint smell that wafted off of Zachary’s hair and the small mole just beneath the back hairline of his neck.

I wanna lick there.

“Orion, you’re not listening… and I don’t think you have been for awhile.”

Orion smirked and winked when Zach glared up at him.

“Guilty, sweetheart. I’m sorry, I just can’t focus any longer.”

Zachary rolled his eyes, then narrowed them. “We’ve only done ten problems. You have thirty-two due tomorrow and I won’t do them all if you won’t pay attention.”

If Orion did actually focus and learn the problems Zachary had no issue doing them for him, even though that was considered cheating. As long as the person learned, it was unfair to force them to do everything without help. That’s what homework was for, to help you learn the material.

Groaning, Orion flopped back on the pillows and sighed. “I know, I’ve just never been able to focus when it came to math. That’s one of the reasons I never bothered with college before.”

Zachary shook his head, setting the book aside after slipping the papers he’d been writing on in the bindings to mark their page. He then slipped onto Orion’s lap, automatically drawing the man’s full attention back to him. Orion eagerly ran his hands up Zach’s clothed backside, letting them slow as they clasped around his waist.

“I think you can focus,” Zachary said with a slightly scary smirk. “You just need the right incentive.”

Orion blinked, frowning at the guy in his lap, yet unwilling to release his hold on him. He had hoped that he’d be let off the homework hook since he was caught again not paying attention, but Zachary didn’t seem like he was going to drop it now. It’s not like he couldn’t afford to fail one or two assignments. The teacher said that he would drop at least one anyways.

“What kind of incentive?”

Grades and a chance to be partners with Xena in her business seemed like the best kind of incentive, and even that didn’t help him learn much. It was honestly depressing. He’d had such high hopes and Zachary definitely understood, but he just wasn’t getting a whole lot in his head. A few of the problems were easy once explained, but when they got more complicated he couldn’t focus enough to piece them together.

“Well, we’ve already read several more chapters of the book.”

Orion only had to think for a second to know that Zachary was talking about the S&M book and not the textbook, because he’d certainly not read more than a chapter of it.

“Yeah?” He replied, curious as to what Zachary had in mind.

“Well, u-um…”

Seeing his face burn made Orion fight back a grin. Instead, he waited patiently for Zachary to regain his ability to speak and finish what he wanted to say.

“Um, if you can get through this homework… a-and you get most of it right.” He looked down, licking his lips worriedly before sneaking a glance back up. “Maybe we can try the um… chapter eight?”

Oh my god are you adorable!

Orion hugged Zach to his chest, a smile that had to be wider than the state of Texas stretching his lips. “Deal!”

Without a second thought he carefully lifted Zachary from his lap, then realized he forgot something and leaned in for a quick kiss. Once that was done, he settled the book back in his lap and opened it to the beginning of the homework problems. “Can we restart? I lost you after the fifth one and would like to go back over everything to make sure that I can put the bigger problems together.”

Zachary’s embarrassment completely disappeared as he nodded and scooted right up against him, then flipped the paper over and got busy writing out the first problem again.

“So this is how most of the problems, even the bigger ones in this chapter, are going to start out when you solve them…”

They worked until Xena knocked on their door, telling them to come up to begin work, since they’d started working on the homework after prepping. They were on the last problem anyways, so they quickly finished it up before racing upstairs. Orion was a bit miffed that it had literally taken all of their time, but at the same time he could at least look forward to later. And that’s exactly what he did as he worked his entire nine hour shift with a smile on his face. His patrons seemed to think it was because of them, and hell, he let them. What they didn’t know wouldn’t hurt them.

When he had finally emptied his room and clocked out, Orion was a bundle of nerves and eager butterflies as he raced downstairs to his room. Zachary had come up two hours earlier, having been dismissed since all of the dishes were clean and the food portion of the business had slowed to a crawl. He was slightly worried that he was already asleep, snug under the blankets… in that case, he’d just swallow his excitement and take the snuggle. Thankfully, when he stepped inside and shut, then locked the door, he heard the shower just turning on.

Yes!

It took everything in him not to run into the bathroom and scoop his boy up for a kiss, and other things, but he took his time removing his pants instead. He then walked into his closet and got down several leather ropes. The first one he wrapped tightly around his leg since he had no boxers on under his tight pants when he worked. The familiar sting of the tight leather had him sighing with contentment before adding another to his already partially-wrapped right arm.

There. That feels amazing.

And it did. Turning, he took the other two ropes and headed straight for the bathroom. His heart was pounding in his chest, and it wasn’t disappointed. When his eyes fell upon Zachary’s blurred image in the back of the shower through the frosted glass, Orion couldn’t keep his heart’s speed from doubling. He carefully stepped inside the shower, tossing the two extra ropes aside in favor of focusing on the gorgeous man trying to tie himself up with the buckles he had fastened to the tile in the back of the shower.

It was obvious that Zachary was trying to tie himself up. He was failing with the second binding, considering his right arm was already fastened, but it was so adorable he had to just stand and stare for a few moments before walking forward and taking his hands gently. For good measure, he leaned in and kissed Zach’s nose, too. “Hey sweetheart,” Orion whispered as the warm water from the showerhead tapped against his backside and legs.

“Ready to Explore and Exercise?” Orion asked with a smirk, saying the title of the most recent chapter they’ve read aloud. The blush he was so used to seeing on Zachary’s soft cheeks flared to life as he nodded.  It wasn’t hesitant, however, and that had Orion’s heart swell with pride. He leaned over, taking Zachary’s lips hungrily as he slowly moved his hands to Zach’s left, unbound one. Without even looking Orion fastened it masterfully over the others’ head, then fixed the other one so that it was more comfortable. When he was finished he leaned back to check his work, then return his eyes to Zachary’s.

“Is it okay? Are you okay?”

He could hear the hope in his voice, though he hadn’t meant to let it slip. He didn’t want to pressure Zachary into any of this if he wasn’t ready to take the step, but after Zach glanced up at each of his hands and flexed his wrists, he smiled and looked back at Orion. “I’m okay.”

Orion returned his smile and nodded before turning and grabbing one of the ropes. Because Zachary still had his boxers on, Orion automatically knew that he was comfortable as long as they were left on. Of course they had been naked several times before, but this was a new situation and the chapter emphasized that the sub needed to be sure that he was one hundred percent comfortable in the situation.

“Tell me everything that you feel as I go, okay? I want to hear good, bad, okay, and what not. No holding back just to make me happy, okay sweetheart?”

Zachary nodded and Orion mirrored the action before kneeling down and beginning to wrap the leather simply but tightly around his boy’s leg. Technically Zach was a man, but Orion couldn’t help but think of him as his boy because of the way he general viewed males and females. It was the same as saying boys and girls. Zachary wasn’t exactly manly in most aspects, either. He was just usually adorable and curiously naive.

Mine. Orion thought proudly. The prospect of Zachary standing strong in front of him, his body filled out to a healthy weight and a possible light beard on his chin did have Orion thinking of him as a man. It would take time though, and he was in no hurry to switch one of his pet names for Zachary. His boy was his sweetheart, and for now, that was that.

Finishing tying the leather, he looked up at Zachary and raised a brow. “It’s okay.” His boy mumbled, immediately telling him that it was likely not the right place.

Orion quickly undid it, then stood and reached up over Zach’s head. He remembered how he had liked the bindings on his arms, so he carefully wrapped the length of leather around his left one firmly, then looked down at his boy. The expression Zachary had on his face at that moment tugged hard at Orion’s heart. His eyes were closed, lips slightly parted with his head tilted back. Swallowing, Orion leaned down, keeping his hands firmly grasped on Zach’s bindings as he brushed his lips with his own.

“Good?”

The moan that was given in response had Orion pressing down harder against Zachary’s lips, nibbling on his bottom one until he opened for him. Immediately he could taste remnant flavors of his sweetheart’s dinner. Fedicini Alfredo . David had made it for him one of the rare times George had let him out of his room while healing. Zach had been hooked ever since. It’s far better to be addicted to pasta than drugs.

The sudden seriousness of his thoughts made Orion uncomfortable… and for the first time in awhile, hungry for something he definitely shouldn’t be thinking about. Staring down at his arms, he took a steadying breath, remembering the old scars he’d put there by more needles than he could remember. That had been one of the main reasons why he started getting interested in his current lifestyle. He could hide his flaws beneath the leather, or blame them on it. Not that he didn’t like the secure feeling of it, he did, but there were many different layers to every decision. Most people just didn’t dig beneath the first. And he was grateful for that.

“Orion?”

Blinking himself out of his negative thoughts, Orion tried to push them away, but they lingered as he fumbled with the bindings on Zachary’s wrists. He could read the confusion on his sweetheart’s face, but he couldn’t continue right then. After being clean for so long, he was having trouble with the sudden slam of cravings. When he got Zach free he paced backward until he felt the cool tile against his back, then slowly slid to the floor. It was hard to fight it, having been taken so off-guard by the feelings. He could remember the highs, the amazing feeling of being invincible. Of not caring.

“No, Orion.”

Part of the haze swamping his mind cleared enough to allow him to hear Zachary and see him carefully kneel down in front of his bent legs. When Zach reached forward and began running his fingers over his pulse, then leaned in to check his eyes, Orion felt his heart nearly shatter at his own stupidly. Zachary was checking him for reactions to drugs! The idea that Zach would even know what to look for bothered him, but he knew it shouldn’t. He had been on the streets, too. Had likely seen people shooting up, smoking, or doing just about anything else to get drugs into their systems. How he had evaded all of that was amazing.

No it’s not. It’s because he’s a very smart and sweet guy. He knew better. you didn’t.

“Orion, how do you answer question number two in the homework?”

Two?

He had to think hard to figure out what he was talking about, but then began to remember. It was the only problem he’d had trouble with that wasn’t complicated. It had just stumped him until they tried it a second time.

“You multiply everything by the same number, then use the formula in the first part of the chapter.”

“Which one?” Zachary asked as he leaned closer, snuggling against him and making him move his legs to the tile floor. They were both beneath the showerhead, just out of range of the spray.

“…that stupid one. The one with the division. They should have had the multiplication part as part of the equation.”

“True. But you taught them. You nearly have that problem memorized now.”

Orion grinned, though he was still having trouble thinking through his body’s strong cravings.

“Now then, how about that last problem?”

That had him groaning and tossing his head back, right into the tile wall with a smack. “Ow.” Zachary reached up and rubbed his head, making the pain mostly dissipate after a few moments.

“That problem. I’ll tell you about that stupid problem. There were so many parts that it should be illegal. Who the heck expects someone to memorize that you have to convert lengths to match each others’ units, then multiply them by speed, which also has to be converted correctly. Then!” He emphasized with a deep exhale. “You have to subtract remaining distance and divide by the time. Which, of course…”

Zachary grinned and finished his sentence as Orion smirked down at him. “You have to convert!”

“Yes!” Orion shouted with a dramatic roll of his eyes as he wrapped his arms lightly around Zachary.

“Well, you got through all of those evil problems, and got them correct.” Zach said with a smile as he leaned up to press a soft kiss to Orion’s jaw before nestling back against his chest.

“Hell yeah I did. They were a pain but I showed them.”

Zachary chuckled and nodded against Orion’s chest before he leaned back a little and smiled.

“You did. And I’m really proud of you, Master Orion.”

The rest of the clouds fogging up his mind cleared with that one sentence from Zachary. It was a relief. Such a great relief. It did worry him that he had gotten so out of it so suddenly, and he’d likely need to tell Xena later since she had been such a big part of him finally getting off the blasted things. Thoughts about having to get more treatment weighed heavily on his mind, but as he felt Zachary wrap his arms around his neck in a tight hug, Orion let his own arms tighten and buried his nose in the crook of his beautiful sweetheart’s neck.

I may have to finish dealing with a problem I thought was long gone, but at least I have my own kind of rehab right here in my arms.

Bulldog

“Wake up,” George grumbled as he shook David’s shoulder roughly. The guy slept like a rock even without his pain meds, which had run out two days ago. He hadn’t asked for anymore, so hopefully he was getting close to the end of his healing. Unfortunately, he had an appointment coming up in an hour or so and he was still in bed!

“Get up you lazy bastard or I’ll shove the last piece of my cake up your ass.”

Yes, he’d eaten almost an entire cake in a week… but it was a damn good cake. Almost too good to waste on David’s ass, but he was seriously losing his patience. It had been in the fridge since it was made, too, so it would definitely wake him up nicely.

“…I’d rather have a different kind of frosting in there.”

Knowing that he was about to lose his shit, George grabbed David and tossed him over his shoulder, ignoring the guy’s pained yelp before he put him down in the shower and turned on the cold water. He then slapped a fresh washcloth in his hand and grumbled out “You have eight minutes,” then turned and stomped back into his room.

If David hadn’t been able to stand on his own by now George might have just put him in the dish washing sink and dump a bottle of Dawn on his head. Luckily for David, his leg was healed just enough to support a bit of his weight with a limp. He still used the crutches for nearly everything, but in the kitchen and shower he managed without. While the guy cleaned up George got himself dressed. He’d worked a double the night prior so Xena gave him the day off, though he had a feeling it was so that he could take David to his check-up over anything else. That was fine with him. After he brought him back he was going to catch up on the sleep he’d missed yesterday.

Once he was dressed George walked back into the bathroom and held out a towel next to the glass door he’d left partially open in case David accidentally fell. The guy knew exactly what to do when he heard him coming, too, which was nice. He rinsed his hair one last time, then got the water off and carefully hopped into George’s arms. After he got the guy over the small raised threshold of the shower George set David down, then quickly began scrubbing his hair before doing a once-over to dry his body. He ignored the slight rise he got from a certain item between the guy’s legs, already used to his reaction as he dried him. Once he was done he dropped the towel on David’s head and turned to walk over to the bed.

When David hobbled over after setting the towel down on the counter George knelt down, allowing him to grasp his shoulders for balance as he helped him into his boxers, then shorts. When George stood to help him with his shirt David couldn’t seem to help but speak. “Why don’t you date?”

George paused with the shirt hovering over David’s head for a second, then jerked the fabric down with a grunt. “Because people are annoying.”

Struggling to pull the shirt down correctly, David shook his head, waiting to speak until the fabric was comfortably over his chest. “You can’t think that everyone is annoying. You had a girlfriend or boyfriend before, right? Surely you didn’t think they were annoying when you first figured out you liked them?”

When George remained silent and only held out David’s crutches, he knew the guy was catching onto him. Unfortunately, he had to walk with him and that gave the guy plenty of time to fire off questions at him.

“Who was your first significant other?”

“Mary.”

“How old was she?”

“Old enough.”

He sped up, hoping to at least make it clear that he wasn’t interested in talking. No such luck.

“How many times did you guys have sex before you broke up?”

Personal much?

George ignored the question but was once again forced to wait for David when he held the door open for the guy. Thankfully he didn’t stop in the middle of the entryway, but when they got to the car and headed on their way after the crutches were tossed in the back, David turned in his seat and grinned.

“How many of those answers you were telling me were lies?”

The drive to the walk-in clinic was thankfully quick, but George knew the guy wouldn’t get out without him answering. Even so, he walked around to his door and opened it, threatening him with a glare if he didn’t get out. It didn’t work, of course.

“I lied about everything. I’m a damn virgin because I hate people, now get your damn ass out of the car, David!”

Suddenly much wiser, David scrambled from the car and got his crutches as George slammed his door shut and locked the car. They stepped inside the doctor’s office and were in a room within ten minutes since the place was empty of waiting patients. They sat down after George took David’s crutches and leaning them against the wall. The doctor came in a moment later, the same one they’d seen previously. It was nice to see him since they wouldn’t have to waste time explaining what had happened again.

He was quick to check David’s leg thoroughly, then smile up at him. “This looks great. You’ve taken really good care of it. I don’t see any hint of infection and it all seems to be healing really well. Do you need a refill of pain meds?”

David shook his head and the doctor nodded, then took his temperature, checked his blood pressure, and wrote down a few things on the paper on his clipboard. “Alright, I think you’re good to go. If you have any issues with the burn please come back, but for now I think you’re set to heal up well. There will be a good amount of scarring, but you can take care of that at a later date if you want to do surgery.”

“Okay, thanks doctor.” George said as he got up and shook the man’s hand, then helped David with his crutches and held the door open. After paying he got back in the car, waiting silently as David got his crutches in the back, then settled in the front. The moment he closed the door they were off, George nearly gunning the car to get them back faster. David was surprisingly silent and didn’t even say something the whole walk back to the room they were currently sharing.

Something’s up.

He wasn’t wrong, but he sure as hell wasn’t expecting what David did. While he used the restroom the little imp limped off to his small closet and took a belt, of which he only had two left, and promptly got busy butchering it considering what he could hear from where he sat on his toilet-throne.

“I’m going to skin you in two seconds!” He shouted to David as he quickly cleaned up and flushed, then tugged up his pants and stepped out of the bathroom… and right into a collar?

“What the hell?”

Why the heck would David even consider putting a collar on him? He wasn’t a sub! Or a dom, for that matter! Hell, he wasn’t anything to anyone! Unfortunately, when he reached back to try and remove it he realized that the idiot had used the quick-drying super glue he kept in his nightstand to fix a piece of his boot that had been nicked off last week.

Scissors.

“Give me the scissors you used to cut this and I might not turn you inside out.”

David licked his lips, visibly nervous as he sat down on the edge of the bed.

You should be you bastard!

“Hear me out…”

He couldn’t be serious!

“I’m serious. It’s just a collar. You can cut it off in a minute so just listen to me for once!”

Crossing his arms over his wide chest, George forced his temper down temporarily and ground out. “Talk. Fast.”

“I have another proposition for you. Give me one day, in private only.”

When he didn’t speak again, George stepped forward, silently prompting him.

“Let me be your master for one day!”

David squinted and jerked his arms up to shield him from the hit he knew was coming. He wasn’t hit, but he was shoved onto his back against the blankets with a very angry George seething over him.

“You think I need someone else to tell me what to do? To run my fucking life?”

Shaking, David jerked his head from side to side, being sure to keep his arms up in case George decided to swing. When he didn’t David hesitantly lowered his arms just enough to see George’s furious eyes narrowed on him.

“Th-that’s not what I-I said.”

“Oh? Well that’s exactly what it sounds like you said!”

Swallowing stiffly, David forced himself to sit up. He couldn’t stop his arms from shaking as he used them to support himself on either side, but he didn’t focus on them. Instead, he squared his shoulders and stared straight up at George.

“A master isn’t someone who dictates your life. Every one is different, just like Orion isn’t Domino, and my old ex Marco isn’t someone else. First and foremost, a master should support his sub. There are some that do so aggressively depending on what their sub wants, or sometimes doesn’t want…” He mumbled the last part, looking down for a moment before glancing back up.

“I-I think that you don’t like to trust people unless your job depends on it.”

George rolled his eyes, making it clear that he did, in fact, hate trusting people he wasn’t forced to.

“Well, I think that maybe if you let yourself listen to someone else, and really take their words seriously for even a day, that maybe you might want to trust people a little more. Or at least a few people more…”

George didn’t want to even consider it. He’d seen how people into that stuff acted. Orion was the most normal of them all, and even what he did was uncomfortable in his eyes.

“I’ll make you something else if you make it through the whole day without strangling me. Anything you want me to cook.”

The idea of telling him to go to hell sounded amazing, but as George opened his mouth to speak those exact words, the only thing that came out was, “Double chocolate mousse cake.”

Fuck.

Unexpected Trip

Knocking on Xena’s office door was so much harder right then than it had been at any other time in his life. But you have to do this. Zachary is everything you’ve always wanted and you were about to drop him off early in order to go find some damn meth. Just the thought of the drug sent a shiver down his spine. Disgusted, he shoved her door open, not waiting for her to answer it, even though he knew she hated when people just barged in.

When he stepped inside she was already standing, a glare on her face though he knew it wouldn’t last. He quickly turned and shut the door, locking it, then moved to take a seat in the only chair across from her large wooden desk. Thankfully Xena noticed his tense posture and understood he had something important to say that shouldn’t be interrupted. His leg leg bounced slightly as he tried to find the words he’d practiced over and over again in his head, but they were all missing.

Dammit.

“You’re having withdrawals, hun.”

Orion’s head jerked up, eyes wide and worried as his leg continued to tick out a rhythm on the hardwood floor with the heel of his boot. When Xena just set her hands in her lap and waited, Orion grabbed his hair and pulled, hard. “Zachary is helping so much. He knows. It’s so obvious sometimes, but I almost dropped him off early from our date! The one we’ve been planning for the past two days! Just so that I could get some damned drugs!”

The room quieted as he finished speaking. The only thing audible to either of them, his heavy panting as he tried to regain control. They sat that way for several seconds until Xena calmly spoke.

“What would you like to do, Orion? I know Zachary means a lot to you…”

“He’s my boy. I-I can’t believe I even considered doing drugs again with such a sweet guy by my side. I don’t need them, I have him!”

“Then he needs to be your grounding thought. You know that you’re an uncaring asshole when you do drugs. Do you think Zachary is going to stay if you treat him like that?”

Of course not. He wouldn’t expect him to, or want him to. Zachary deserved better than what he had been like in the past. When he’d spent his days doing drugs, or doing anything he could to get them.

“No.”

“I think maybe getting away from this place for a little while might help you get your control back. You have plenty of paid vacation time and since Zachary has been working his butt off since I hired him, I’ll let you take him with you, too.”

A vacation. That actually did sound really nice.

“Okay. I think that would do me some good.”

Pushing the chair back from the desk, Orion stood and gave Xena a reassuring smile. “Zachary is gonna be so excited!” 

She nodded, grinning at him before flicking her wrist towards the door. “Get going, you. Pack up your handcuffs and leather thong and go wow your guy at some resort or something.”

Orion stepped over to the door and unlocked it, but instead of walking out right away he glanced over his shoulder. “I don’t have a leather thong… but that would look amazing on Zach.” Xena shook her head, heaving a sigh before Orion darted from the room, not wanting to risk having something thrown at him.

Wonder where I can get a leather thong.

“Hey Orion.”

Stopping abruptly in the hall, Orion turned, only to grin as Zachary came walking over to him. Resisting hugging him, Orion greeted him with a smile, then gestured for him to follow. The place had just opened a few moments ago so there weren’t many patrons yet. When they stepped into his room and the door slid shut Orion couldn’t help but turn around and tug his boy into his arms.

“Xena said we needed to take a vacation.”

The look on Zach’s face was adorable and quite humorous. “A… vacation? But I only just started here. And don’t they need us?”

“David is already back in the kitchen, though George doesn’t seem to like it. Xena will probably take over washing dishes until we’re back, but since it was an order, we can’t exactly argue.”

Orion winked after he finished speaking, getting a confused blush out of Zachary.

“Oh… okay. Um, where are we going?”

Er. Um. To bed for several days?

Grinning to himself, Orion shrugged and walked to the closet to tug out a large red suitcase. He had three, but he wanted their things to be packed together. Tossing it on the bed, he unzipped it, then looked over at Zachary.

“Pack for four days, okay?”

Nodding, Zach grabbed four pairs of boxers and socks and set them next to the suitcase, then stared up at Orion. “Would you like to pick what I bring, Master Orion?”

He knew. Of course he knew. It was impossible not to see the signs of withdrawal after living on the streets for so long. He wanted Orion to tell him outright that he was having trouble still, but at the same time he understood that he couldn’t. It was hard, and being in a position where you were normally the one others leaned on, then suddenly feeling weak? Zachary understood. In all honesty, he didn’t need nor want a vacation, but if it would be with Orion, and help him, then it was worth it.

“Yes please, sweetheart.” Orion replied as he leaned over and pressed a soft kiss to Zach’s forehead, then turned and walked into the closet. Not knowing what else to do, Zach followed, watching as Orion meticulously chose different shirts and pants for him. He did notice Orion grabbing the pair of slashed pants, but didn’t comment. If showing a little skin would make him not think about getting a fix, then he would gladly wear them for him.

“Will you pick out one of the outfits please, Zachary?”

Nodding, Zach began reaching for clothing. His hand was caught gently in Orion’s, making him pause and look up at the man. “Let me turn around. It’s a simple thing and I don’t want you to pick anything that won’t be uncomfortable, but I’d like you to choose something I won’t see until you wear it.”

“Oh. Okay.” Zach said with a small smile. He waited for Orion to turn, then quickly grabbed down his favorite outfit and went to pack it away in the suitcase, then added his boxers and socks overtop of it so that Orion wouldn’t see.

“Alright.” He called back. A moment later Orion was beside him, setting his other clothing in the suitcase before turning and grabbing his own outfits. While Orion was busy Zachary slipped the book they’d been reading together beneath his own clothing, Orion’s laptop, then added a pair of handcuffs he knew were in the nightstand drawer.

“You look like you just stole a strawberry,” Orion chided as he set his things in the suitcase. Zachary licked his lips and shrugged. “I wouldn’t call them strawberries ?”

The slight joke had a little spark light in Orion’s eyes, making Zachary smile impishly.

“Alright. I’m sure whatever you sneaked in will be the most innocent of things.”

“Of course.” Zachary chimed as they zipped the suitcase, him holding the top down as Orion worked the stubborn zipper. “There. Let’s get the hell outta here, eh? Grab your coat, and do you have your wallet on you?”

Zachary nodded as he ran over to where he’d tossed his coat on the edge of the bed and pulled it on. When Orion got his own on and grabbed the suitcase, he grasped Zach’s hand with his free one and promptly tugged him out of the room, then out into the chilly evening. Their feet crunched on the settled snow out on the sidewalk before Orion stepped in front of him and opened the car door. Zachary thanked him as he slipped into his seat and buckled up, allowing Orion to shut his door before he walked around to put the suitcase in the trunk, then get in and start up the car and heater.

“So,” Orion said as he pulled out into traffic heading toward the interstate. “Since this hadn’t exactly been planned, wanna just drive and stop whenever we see something interesting during our random vacation?”

It was pretty random, but Zachary wasn’t picky. “Sure.” He said as he settled back in his seat and began watching out the window. Snow twinkled down from a cloudy sky, dancing along the slight breeze before settling on the ground. He was so used to sitting outside in that snow. Feeling it drift down to land atop his hair.

He remained lost in his memories until he felt Orion’s warm hand settle overtop his left one and squeeze gently. Zachary returned the gesture and closed his eyes as a yawn took over.

Just a quick nap.

“Hey sweetheart. Your belly’s been growling for the last hour. So, wanna open those pretty eyes and get some dinner with me before we find our hotel?” Without much thought Zachary nodded, getting a kiss as a reward before his seatbelt was unbuckled and he was helped out. The chill of the night’s cold brought him around quite fast. He blinked a few times, wiping the blur of sleep from his vision as he looked up at the sign hanging on the restaurant in front of him.

Bob’s BBQ Joint.

“I love barbecue!” He said in a surprisingly excited, yet slightly slurred voice.

“I’m glad,” Orion replied as he settled his hand on Zach’s shoulder and began leading him up the steps and into the restaurant. It was comfortably warm, but with his stomach grumbling at him hungrily, Zachary knew better then to let himself slip into slumber again. Instead, he ordered a sugary iced tea after they were seated and made sure to take a few good sips of the cool drink to help wake himself up.

“Your hair is adorably messed up,” Orion said as he tried to hide his grin behind the menu he now held up across from Zach. Grumbling under his breath, Zachary reached up and tried to flatten his hair, but he already knew that it was useless. Foregoing wasting time when he was hungry, he instead grabbed the menu their waiter had placed in front of him and immediately saw what he wanted.

When the waiter returned a moment later he quickly told him his order. “I want the pulled pork sandwich with the two sides as macaroni and cheese and corn nuggets.”

Orion eyed him, surprised that he’d ordered so much, but eh, Zachary felt like being a little piggy. He was on vacation, after all. He could afford to eat himself into a coma because there was no need to wake up early to help with prep. Orion seemed to realize that and smiled as he gave his order of a platter of ribs, french fries, and baked beans with bacon. When the waiter walked away with their menus Orion darted around the table and slid into the booth next to him, nudging Zachary over a bit with his thigh so that he could fit. “Hey there, cutie.”

Zach rolled his eyes and grabbed his tea as Orion moved his own drink to their side. “Hey yourself, muscles.” Orion smirked, taking a sip of his drink, likely to keep from saying something that wasn’t appropriate for the restaurant.

“So, the signs along the road said that there was a nice hotel about ten miles ahead at the exit. Want to crash there tonight and then drive around like lost tourists looking for stuff to do tomorrow?”

Zachary nodded. “That sounds good.”

Considering the restaurant wasn’t very busy, their meals were out in about fifteen minutes more of random banter. It might have just been simple talk, but the entire time Orion hadn’t looked stressed or awkward, which left Zachary content. Zach ate a little faster than he normally would, but it was delicious! He could feel Orion’s eyes on him every few bites but he couldn’t slow down until he was halfway through the sandwich and the corn nuggets were completely gone. Once he’d taken a sip of his drink and sighed with relief as his stomach settled, Zachary finally looked up to see Orion staring down at him with slightly watery eyes.

He was going to ask what was wrong, but before he could Orion reached over and gently cupped his cheek with a warm hand. “I’m so glad that you’re eating a lot.”

Oh. Of course he would be happy that I’m eating a lot. I’m still pretty underweight for my age.

Smiling, Zach turned and pressed a soft kiss to Orion’s palm before licking it outright. They both laughed, the tension broken in an instant. Zachary went back to his food, finishing everything before Orion was even halfway done. Of course, the guy didn’t surprise him in the least when he slid some of his ribs onto his plate. Zachary ate them without comment, continuing when Orion added french fries and some beans, too. By the time Orion’s plate was empty like his, Zachary felt more than a little chubby. His belly was even bloated from the food!

“You’re gonna make me fat,” he mumbled quietly as Orion paid the bill, then helped him out of the booth with a hand that he refused to release once Zach was standing.

“Oh? Is barbecue your weakness?”

Zachary yawned after he descended the steps outside, grateful for the chilly air on his flushed skin. “Mm, yeah.”

“I’ll have to remember that,” Orion said as he got the car door for Zach and held his hand until he slid in. Feeling more sleep than before, Zachary was grateful for the help. Once Orion slipped into his seat and got the car started, but didn’t put it in drive, Zach glanced over.

“You look like you’re already about to pass out again, sweetheart,” Orion whispered as he reached over to press his palm against Zach’s cheek. “Can I get a goodnight kiss before you leave me for your dreams? I’ll carry you to bed if you do.” He said with a heartwarming grin on his face.

Just seeing Orion looking so happy had Zachary forcing down his need for sleep and scooting over into the man’s lap. Orion initiated the kiss and Zach did his best to match the slow but sensual pace. He felt hands on his sides and wiggled slightly, sighing when the action had Orion’s fingers tightening gently. When the kiss finally broke they were panting softly, their breath mixing with the scent of their meal.

“Orion?” Zachary mumbled, trying to fight a yawn.

“Hmm?” He answered as he began to rub up and down Zach’s back. Smiling sleepily, Zachary reached up and wrapped his arms around Orion’s neck before snuggling into its crook. “I love you and I’m proud of you. And if you ever need me to say that again at a certain moment, I’ll be more than happy to, m’kay?”

“M’kay, sleepyhead.” Orion whispered as he helped settle Zach back into his seat. Buckling his seatbelt, the man leaned over for one final kiss, then mussed up his hair before getting the car on the road. Zach managed to stay awake for a few short minutes before he fell into a deep sleep on Orion’s soft whisper. “I appreciate it.”

Your Story

“This is ridiculous,” George mumbled as he gently ran a soaped-up washcloth along David’s injured leg. He was used to helping clean the guy, but just his leg? Either he needed help or he didn’t! If he could wash the rest of his body, why couldn’t he get his leg now, too? Not to mention, his other orders for the morning had been to give him a hug, a kiss on the cheek, and to tell him a positive memory from his childhood.

Why the hell would a few nice gestures and a three minute story about my dead dog Ferfy make any sense to a dominant?

He honestly thought the first order would be sex, followed by cooking, and then more sex. Possibly while cooking. Yet it was already almost ten in the morning and they were just dicking around in the bathtub! Granted, he didn’t have his dick out, nor would he even if ordered, nor was he in the bathtub but they were seriously just wasting time taking so long with David’s bath.

“Okay, I think I’m done. Thank you for helping, George.” David said as he leaned forward and pulled the plug, then carefully got to his feet as the water began to drain. Knowing that the fool was likely to slip, George carefully helped lift the guy from the tub, then handed him a towel before stepping past him. He still had to shower so as David got busy drying himself, George yanked the curtain shut and stripped, tossing his clothing out onto the floor before he got busy cleaning himself. As he enjoyed the cool water he heard David moving about in the bedroom, likely pulling on clothing. What he didn’t expect, however, was the sound of footsteps moving back into the bathroom and up to the curtain. His hands stilled from working conditioner from his hair, his heart jumping with anticipation. Then he heard the most awkward, hesitant, nervous voice he’d ever heard stumble out as a sentence with so many stutters that he could barely make out what David was saying.

“L-let m-m-me l-look…”

Shaking his head, George got back to washing as he replied with a no-nonsense tone.

“No.”

There was quiet for a moment before he heard a few steps moving away from the shower. Figuring that David had retreated, he rinsed off, then tugged the curtain aside a few feet after turning off the water, only to frown when he saw David holding the only towel in the bathroom. Well, hiding behind it sounded more appropriate. When he didn’t immediately hand over the towel, either, and his cheeks just lit up, George knew what he wanted to do.

Some dominant.

Forcing himself not to snatch the towel out of the idiot’s hands, George stepped out of the bathtub onto the soft mat beside it.

“Well? Get on with it.” He growled. The second the words left his mouth David’s eyes lip up and as he jumped forward, the towel lowering, he could also see the guy’s disturbingly wide smile of excitement.

His hands were careful but thorough as they gently skimmed the towel over every inch of his front. Normally George would just scrub the rough item down his arms, legs, front, back, between his legs, then a quick tussle of hair and be done with it. David, however, made the towel almost feel brand new… not the three years of age and roughness he knew it to be. The most surprising thing about it though, was the fact that even when David moved to dry off his privates, he didn’t hesitate, but he also didn’t dwell on them. He gently tapped and rubbed at the water droplets until the area was clean, then swiftly moved lower to get his legs, then feet.

When he finished his front George looked down to see David staring up at him like a puppy begging for a treat. Except he had a feeling that the treat would be him turning around so that he could dry the back half of his body. It was so weird. He just couldn’t grasp how anyone could be so eager to just dry someone else off. Anyone can dry their own body, yet David had eagerness and hope shining like a beacon in his eyes wanting to do it for him.

Damn this guy.

Sighing in frustration, George turned on the shower mat and immediately felt the towel begin its trek up from the heels of his feet. It was torture not to just do it himself and be done with it, but if it would make David happy and stop his frivolous attempts at being some sort of dominant for a few moments, then he would just put up with it.

When he was finally done, several minutes later, David stood, nodded, and then ran into the bedroom closet before coming out a moment later with an outfit that definitely wasn’t his.

He wants to pick out my clothes?

The idea left a sour taste in his mouth, but as he looked at what David had gotten out, he didn’t notice anything he didn’t mind wearing. So, he grabbed the boxers and tugged them on, then added the black jeans and white T-shirt.

“Um… l-let’s go get breakfast.”

George glanced at what David was wearing, since he hadn’t really paid attention previously. He had a soft pink hoodie on, though it wasn’t as harsh as most pinks. I think the color is called salmon or something. Pairing that with worn white jeans was actually… something. He couldn’t really put a word to it so he just decided to shrug off the thought and nod. They made their way to the kitchen. Right off the bat George headed for the fridge, grabbing out his last piece of cake that he’d been saving… only to have it taken from his hands and set back in the fridge.

“Breakfast f-first.” David said, trying his best to sound stern. The stutter didn’t help him at all. He relented though, because today was David’s day to fail at being a dominant.

“Okay. What do you want me to do then?” George grumbled. He wasn’t going to just stand and watch David do stuff, since he did that as a job with way too many other people already.

“Here, cut this up please.” David said as he set a bell pepper on a cutting board and got to work dicing an onion and a pickle.

He remembers that I like pickles in my omelet.

The first time he’d told him to put bell pepper, onion, and pickles in his omelet David had given him the most entertaining look. With a smile hinting at the edge of his lips, George walked over to the cutting board and carefully sliced the pepper up into tiny pieces. When he was finished he backed away, letting David take over and make two large omelets. Remembering that he liked cheese, George grabbed a block of pepperjack from the fridge and grated a small amount onto the cutting board, then returned it after getting down two plates. When the plates were loaded with deliciousness he sprinkled the cheese over David’s, then handed him a fork after getting one for himself and began to dig in.

They ate their meal in silence, the only sound the scraping of forks against the plates and one satisfied grunt from George. Neither of them spoke until they had their dishes and silverware cleaned, dried, and returned to their rightful place.

“Let’s go for a walk, okay?”

You’re not supposed to ask Mr. Dominant.

Of course he didn’t know whether you really were supposed to ask or not, but his views on the lifestyle were pretty much from only two dominants. Orion and Domino. They contradicted each other to a T, so he really was just going to roll with whatever as best he could.

“Sure.” He replied before David slid his hand into his and lead him towards a back door. It was appreciated, even though the place wouldn’t be open for a good while. He’d promised not to make him walk around the club with people he knew wearing the collar. Not that going out made him much happier with the thing on, but he appreciated it nonetheless. When they ducked outside he took in a deep breath of the crisp morning air. It felt close to sixty, which made him perfectly comfortable in his T-shirt and jeans.

He wasn’t sure where they were going but he did enjoy the walk. Everyone was so busy coming and going from their jobs that most didn’t even think to glance at them. The few that dared though, got deadly glares that sent them running. Literally. When David finally turned to head up several small flights of stairs outside of a building, George glanced up, a bit surprised.

The library?

When he looked over at David he noticed that the guy seemed nervous.

“I like the library.” George ended up saying, if only to make David feel less worried about taking him there. He did, in fact, like the library. It was quiet and idiots didn’t bother him there. Idiots actually tended to stay away from the building as a whole, which was nice. It was kind of like a stupid repellent.

When they stepped inside he felt his body begin to relax. The building was huge, with two stories and several rooms used for different student projects, meetings, or whatever else you wanted to do that was related to books and such… that was PG-13. David released his hand when they got close to the science fiction section. Since he swiftly began scanning the titles George decided to find something for himself. He rarely got time to read, and hell, his life was enough of a story. At least for himself. He doubted anyone would want to read it if it was a book.

Yes, the story of a grumpy bouncer with no heart stuck with a permanently horny submissive he saved from an idiot. Sounds like a page turner. Not.

His eyes did settle on an interesting title though. He quickly plucked the book off of the shelf and glanced over the synopsis on the back. Not bad. He found a few others after several minutes of looking, then went to find David. Rolling his eyes when he found him in an adjacent isle, George noted the stack of books in the guy’s arms.

“Alright, you. Let’s go upstairs and actually read some of those before you fall over by adding more,” he said, grabbing David’s arm and dragging him away as he began to reach up for another book. Even though he groaned, David allowed George to pull him away and up the stairs to the second floor. The first few rooms he looked in were taken by college students studying or book clubs, but he eventually found an empty one with several beanbags and sofas spread out around it.

Perfect.

They walked in and George went straight for a chair, only to have his hand grabbed and tugged gently. Turning, he noticed that David had set his books down by a beanbag, the pile already spilled over onto the carpet. “Beanbag.” 

Yes, almighty master.

Grunting, George walked over and dropped into a black one, stretching his long legs out awkwardly. He wasn’t made for beanbag chairs. He was too bulky and his legs were too long. David, however, slipped into the bright blue one next to him with easy. It kind of reminded him of a kitten hopping into a cardboard box. Made for each other. Inwardly shaking his head, George flipped open his first book and got busy losing himself in it. Contrary to what most people would likely think of the silent, stone-faced bouncer, he actually loved to read and was fast as hell at it. By the time he felt David’s curious eyes on him he was already seventy pages into his book.

He glanced sideways at him, watching as the guy jerked his attention back to the book sitting open in his hands. His shaking hands. Stupid. The guy always got cold fast. George learned that quickly when David continuously stole the majority of his blankets at night and refused to get up when it was cold in the morning from the air conditioner. Now he was shivering in his seat, even wearing a hoodie sweatshirt . He noticed, however, that the idiot had forgotten to put a shirt on under it.

If you ever become a real dominant your sub is going to be taking care of you. Not the other way around.

Biting his tongue on a snarky comment, George reached over and grabbed David’s arm, then yanked. The guy was light enough for the action to put him right up and over the small rim of the beanbag and onto his left leg. Since his legs were spread to the side for comfort David’s settled between them as he got comfortable himself. When he wouldn’t stop shivering even after George had moved him he reached around and wrapped an arm around his waist. It was an awkward hug, at least for him, but when David snuggled right in against his chest, he had a feeling the little sub may have just tricked him, because suddenly he wasn’t shaking nearly as much.

Dork.

He let it slide though. But only because his book was getting to a really good spot. So, with his new cuddle-sub situated against his chest, evidently no longer interested in reading the book he had been, George returned his focus to his own story. As he continued to read he felt David’s body relax, his breathing slowing while sleep took him. Every twenty minutes or so he shifted, waking just enough to get a bit more comfortable before sinking back under. After about two hours he began to shift his leg specifically, his body tensing every few moments from pain.

His leg’s hurting. Time for meds.

“Let’s get going, you need to take some of the basic pain meds we picked up in case your leg started aching.” George mumbled as he began to shut his book and get ready to get up. Only he was stopped when David pushed against his chest, then settled his head back against it. “No, please. You’re almost done with the book. I’m just a little sore. Finish the last few chapters.”

George had no idea why he’d want to wait. He could just check out the book if he wanted to finish it, but since he was the dominant for the day, he just huffed and settled back in, then opened his book to the correct page.

He read through another chapter before a question that had been nudging at his mind since he’d tried to get them to head back to the club made him speak.

“Why don’t you want to leave and get the pain meds? You’re obviously hurting.”

He expected him to say that he wanted to cuddle or whatever, but when David reached up and splayed his left hand next to where his head rested, ear pressed against his shirt, the guy’s words literally made George’s next words get stuck right on his tongue before he could even think about speaking them.

“Because I can finally feel your emotions. As you read. Hear them as your heart beats faster. Slower. Stutters and hums with each page you turn.”

He snuggled in a little closer, raising his other hand to press against George’s chest before turning his head to press a kiss over where his heart was illogically speeding up.

“I want to be the one who writes a story good enough to make your heart show me such things again.”

George still couldn’t manage to get out a single word in response, though plenty came to mind. Mainly idiot, fool, stupid, dork, among several others, but when he didn’t actually say anything for several long moments David looked up, and when the guy’s eyes widened, he knew he was screwed… Because he felt unfamiliar heat burning his cheeks and no matter how much he tried to force it away with other thoughts, he knew that it was only getting worse as David’s smile widened.

A Lesson Learned

Mini golf definitely wasn’t his thing. Zachary forced himself not to throw his club like that actor in Happy Gilmore. His parents used to watch that movie every Christmas, why, he had no clue. The specific part with the mini golf was what he always remembered… and he should have taken it as a warning not to try it. He’d already tried putting his way through six holes and failed miserably, then when Orion stepped into the green area to try and help direct him, he hit the poor guy in the shin with his ball.

“This is hopeless…” Zachary mumbled. He wasn’t one to just quit, but considering Orion’s limp and his terribly high score on their card, he had a feeling golf really wasn’t his sport.

“As much as I’m against being negative, my ankle is begging me to agree.” Orion said with a half-smile as he walked over and put his arm around Zach, leading him back towards the small building they entered the course from so that they could return their clubs and pencils.

“Hmm, hey Orion?” Zachary asked, looking up after they ducked inside the small entry building.

“Yes, Zachary?” Orion replied as he set his club in its holder, then took Zach’s and placed it next to it. They both dropped their pencils in the box for them on the counter before stepping outside and throwing out their score paper.

“Doesn’t the hotel we’re staying at have an inside pool?”

Orion got the car unlocked and held open the door for him as he nodded. “Yeah, they do.” He waited until they were both seated in the car and getting it turned on before looking over at Zach again. “You wanna go swimming?”

Pushing back his nervousness, Zachary nodded. “Yeah, I think it would be fun. Since it’s inside, it should be heated, too.”

Orion grinned as he got them back onto the highway headed towards their hotel. “True. Sounds like a plan. I think they have swimsuits in their giftshop, too, so we can just grab two before heading to the pool.”

“Sounds good.”

Well, it had sounded good. Getting the swimsuits wasn’t a problem, as the giftshop did have several different ones to choose from. Zach let Orion pick his out, of course, not minding relinquishing the option at all. He actually liked the zebra-striped pair of trunks Orion decided on, matching them with his pair of tiger ones. The hotel even had a small locker room to change in by the pool. The real problem was when Zachary actually got close to the water and his fear shoved past the barrier he had put up to try and keep it at bay. He couldn’t swim.

Orion slipped into the water seamlessly, his body relaxing as he slowly moved backwards in the water. Zachary wanted to follow, desperately. Those big strong arms called to him. He belonged there, but he couldn’t even make himself move down onto the first step, the one that only had an inch of water on it.

“Hey sweetheart,” Orion whispered as he reached up with one welcoming hand, startling Zach.

When had he swum back over?

Now he sat on the second step, the water halfway up his chest, looking completely comfortable in the water… and delicious. Droplets of water slowly meandered down his bare chest, the faint marks from his leather work uniform no longer visible on his smooth skin. When his fingers wiggled playfully Zachary couldn’t help but take a step closer. No one else was in the pool area, thankfully, but people were the least of his worries. That water just didn’t look as great as he’d imagined it in his mind earlier. He wouldn’t let his worry keep him from Orion, though. With a bit of forced renewed vigor, he took that last big step to put him at the edge of the pool.

The smile that slid across Orion’s lips spurred him on a little further after he recollected himself. Before Zachary knew it he was standing on the first step, hands clenched in a death-grip around the railing leading down into the water. He knew it was stupid to be afraid, especially of an inch of water, but after having an accident at the pool when he was five, swimming had been shoved to the back of his mind and the will to learn, locked away. Until now. He reminded himself. After all of the years watching other people enjoy swimming, he wanted to try. He really, really did.

“I’m proud of you, sweetheart. You’re doing really well.”

Zachary licked his lips and gave a jerky nod, glad for the words, but even more glad that Orion wasn’t touching him. Not that he didn’t like it, but in his current situation his mind would immediately think that he was trying to help him into the water, and that would only flip a panic switch. He took a full five minutes to make himself slowly, ever so slowly, move down to sit on the top step. That, of course, forced his legs down so that his feet landed on the third step. Almost immediately his legs began to lift in the water, making him want to shift his weight as his nerves kicked up.

“It’s okay. It’s normal for the water to lift you slightly.”

Zach nodded, but kept his grip firm on the silver rail. He felt Orion move before he saw him, looking up from the fluctuating surface of the water to see the man move about five feet away.

“Have you ever seen a dog swim, Zachary?” Orion asked, standing up where he was so that the water was only up to his waist.

It’s not that deep there…

“Y-yes.” Zach mumbled.

“Good. Okay, I want you to think about how a dog swims. Using all four of their legs, right?”

Zachary nodded, trying to calm his breathing.

“Try to do that to get to me.”

Zach’s eyes bulged, making Orion frown as he moved closer and reached up.

“Okay, will you hold onto me instead? No swimming at all, just… give me a tight hug?”

It was a reasonable request. That’s what Zachary kept telling himself as he slowly uncurled one finger at a time from the railing they felt like they were glued to. When he was done to just his thumbs, he bit down on his lip hard, then jumped. Of course he slipped on the thin layer of water on the upper step he’d moved back up to for the jump, but before he could even come closer to going under, Orion was there.

Strong arms. Check. Soft lips on neck. Check. Terror subsiding. Check.

“Good boy, good boy, good boy. You did it. You’re okay, sweetheart. I’ve got you.”

Zachary reached up to wrap his arms around Orion’s neck, quickly following them with his legs around the man’s waist. With his chest pressed firmly against Orion’s, he had no doubt that the man could feel his heartbeat slamming against his warm skin.

They were still for a long while, exactly how long, Zach wasn’t sure. It was long enough to allow him to calm down, though, which made all the difference. Curiosity eventually overwhelmed his ebbing worry and he gingerly peaked open his eyes to glance at the large expanse of water over Orion’s strong back.

“Th-this was a-a bad idea,” he mumbled, feeling his heart begin to stumble through his chest again.

“Actually, Zach, I’m really glad that you decided on this.” Orion said as he tilted his head so he could nuzzle against his hair.

“Why?” Zachary replied with a quiet whisper.

“Swimming is very important. You may never use the skill after you learn it, but you also might find yourself in a situation where knowing how to swim can save your life. And I will do anything I can, even if it worries you some when learning it, to give you any skills I can to prevent you from being in danger if a situation ever does arise. Because you’ll know how to get yourself out of it.”

Wow…

Zachary was surprised, but also a little envious. Orion was so mature and said exactly what he meant. And he cared about him. Not just said things he didn’t mean or wouldn’t back up.

He really cares a lot about me.

Determination welled up in his belly and before he could scare himself out of it, Zachary slowly began climbing down from Orion’s arms. Thankfully, the man never truly let go of him, but when his toes finally hit the bottom of the pool he couldn’t help but hop. Literally. He felt awkwardly off-balance with his body so light. He bounced up and down three times before Orion’s hands, having moved to his waist, carefully slowed him until he stood still in the water. Zach made sure he had a solid grip on Orion’s forearms, just in case, but when he looked up at Orion, he knew he’d done it. His heart felt like it was going to jump out of his chest, but he’d done it! He was actually standing in a swimming pool!

“I’m in a pool!” He half-shouted, just in case Orion didn’t notice. 

“You are!” Orion said cheerfully as he began to move backwards. Zachary didn’t even notice that he was being moved into deeper water, his legs lifting to drift behind him while Orion moved. “I’ve been so afraid for so long. I had a really bad fall into the pool when I was a kid. I almost drowned and now, I’m in a pool!”

“You are, sweetheart. Kick your legs for me a bit, splash us.”

Zach obliged with a smirk, kicking his legs enough to send water raining down on them. They both laughed at it and Orion reached up to muss up Zachary’s hair. “That all you got?”

“Hmph! I’ll show you!” Zach growled playfully as he kicked like crazy, moving his right hand through the water as Orion continued to try and mess up his hair with his left one. When Orion leaned over and stole an abrupt kiss, Zachary took a deep breath and kicked hard, sending him up against the other man so that he could wrap his free arm around Orion’s neck and steal a much longer, aggressive kiss. He moved his other hand up to press against Orion’s cheek, kicking his legs slowly as he enjoyed his lips.

“Look behind you, sweetheart.”

Zach didn’t want to stop kissing, but he didn’t want to disobey such a simple request, either. So he looked over his shoulder… and realized that he was all the way across the pool in the deep end with Orion. Fear surged through his body, but relief came right after it, putting out the fire of worry.

I got out here with just a little help from Orion. I did.

He forced himself to remember everything he’d done for the past several minutes. Regulated his breathing. Kicked just enough to keep himself steady. Paddled with his front legs so his head stayed just above the water. He probably looked a bit funny, since his butt felt like it was a bit too high and his chin was dipping below the water’s surface every few seconds, but who cares!

“I’m swimming!”

Zachary dipped beneath the water right as he said that, but Orion’s strong arms easily brought him back up as he moved them over to the shallower area. Zach stood as soon as he could, spitting out a bit of water with a big grin on his face.

“So, wanna chalk this up to a win and go shower?” Orion asked, figuring out that even with the accomplishment, Zach was ready to call it and rest.

“Yeah, that sounds good.”

They briefly considered using the one in the locker room area, but instead decided to grab their stuff and run up to their own room. It was a good idea, because they would have likely gotten in trouble if anyone found them making out as much as they currently were in the public shower. Their swimsuits were tossed on the floor, one on the carpet and the other on the tile in the bathroom. The shower was running hot, but neither of them noticed much as Zachary sat against the back of the tub and Orion leaned over him while kneeling, their mouths locked together, tongues dancing eagerly. There was no struggle for dominance between the kiss. Orion was in complete control.

“Can I touch you?” Orion asked breathlessly against Zachary’s mouth. He had already had his hands on a good portion of him, but he was asking for permission to touch private parts, as he likely would several times before deciding that it was okay between them without permission.

“Y-yes.” Zach huffed, struggling to get in breath as well. He had even more trouble the moment he felt Orion’s firm right hand wrap around his length. Just the touch had him gasping, head leaning back into Orion’s other hand, keeping him from hitting it on the tile wall. He half expected Orion to ask him if it felt good, perhaps because that’s what he’d seen in the few movies he could remember that had sex scenes, but when he just began nibbling down his neck, tugging at the tender flesh, Zachary knew he shouldn’t have expected such a bland question to come from him. Of course it felt good! He was moaning like he was in freakin’ heat and bucking his hips into Orion’s hand!

When he finally felt his body orgasm he noticed Orion was also releasing with a loud moan right along with him. It was odd to see someone able to do that without even touching himself, but then Zach realized that Orion was an extremely visual person… who perhaps also enjoyed having some control over another. Being his sub, of course he’d get turned on getting to touch. It was just surprising how much.

“Sorry, sweetheart. I lost a bit of my control.”

His voice was deep. Sexy. And his eyes? Zach took several moments to swallow the drool building in his mouth before he was able to speak coherently. “I-it’s okay…”

That had Orion smiling as he leaned back and grabbed a small washcloth that they had packed. He lathered it up with some of the hotel soap, then began washing the mess he’d made from Zach’s chest. He didn’t take care of his own body until Zachary was completely clean, and maybe a bit more than that. When he started rubbing Zach’s seed from his own chest Zach gently stopped his hand and removed the washcloth. He was about to question Zach, but when he started to gently clean where he’d left off, Orion seemed to understand.

“Thank you, Zachary.”

Zach glanced up at Orion’s words, but quickly darted his eyes back to the man’s chest as he scrubbed it gently, cheeks burning. Instead of commenting on his growing blush, Orion just ran his hands through Zachary’s smooth wet hair, tugging softly at the tips with a content smile.

“It might be a bit early, but would you like to go out for dinner?”

Zachary nodded, getting a pat to his head before Orion let his hand rest there while Zachary worked.

“And uh, I don’t believe I’ve actually said this, officially. So uh, will you please be my boyfriend?”

Out Of Control

(I have a new book out, you guys should go stalk it. I mean read it. It’s called Reverse ^^)

Checking I.D. after I.D. was frustrating when all George could think about were David’s stupid words back at the library earlier. Right after he’d managed to get himself under control he’d jumped up, the action forcing David to stumble out of his lap. He’d stomped out of the room with the other man on his heels, leaving their piles of books in the rooms even though he’d wanted to finish the one he’d been reading.

“Hey Georgi boy.”

Dammit. Go away.

Glaring at the approaching man, George handed the I.D. he’d been checking back to the under-aged kid in front of him and told him to get lost. The guy opened his mouth to argue that he was likely the person in his fake I.D., but after George turned his glare on the guy, he bolted like a terrified alley cat. When the large man stopped in front of him George forced himself not to bare his teeth.

“Domino. To what do I owe the displeasure of this visit?”

“Just came to take my pet back, I figure he’s had enough punishment by now.”

The fuck?

George was so shocked by the man’s words that he nearly let him slip through the doorway to the club. At the last second he reached forward, grabbing his arm as he yanked him back.

“I don’t think so. He doesn’t want to see you again, let alone be anything to you. Now I suggest that you leave before the cops are called.”

The exasperated look on Domino’s face made George give a cocky smirk.

“The hell are you talking about? That guy worships this!” Domino shouted, gesturing to his body like he was some type of god.

“Oh yeah? Well now he worships this.” George said with his own cocky tone as he pointed to the side of his head.

“Your brain? The guy’s an idiot! All he ever wants is sex and food, not brains!”

The punch just happened. George hadn’t meant to do it, or at least he hadn’t openly thought about it. The feeling of his fist connecting with the guy’s face felt amazing though. That, he couldn’t argue. Domino seemed to take it like everything else George had said so far. With a disbelieving, full-of-himself, attitude.

“The hell? You just punched me, you fucking monkey!”

Monkey?

“Come on, I’m bigger than you. I’m at least an ape. And, I haven’t fucked him. So that just makes me a normal ape, too.”

Domino’s mouth opened to say something, but then shut before words were able to be formed.

“Right then, now that we understand what I am, this non-fucking ape is about to beat you senseless if you don’t go find another territory to mark. Go on, git goin’.” George said, shooing his hand at the man to try and urge him to leave. It had the opposite effect, but George was ready. He wasn’t Xena’s favorite bouncer for nothing. Domino landed one punch on George’s left cheek, then on his second strike he was flipped a full one-hundred and eighty degrees before slamming down to the icy ground. Air rushed out of his lungs, leaving the man laying there, gasping up at George like a suffocating fish.

Since he didn’t seem very mobile at that moment, George turned his attention back to checking I.D.s. He got through ten before he heard Domino groan and looked down, seeing the man begin to stagger back to his feet. Wisely, when he finally got up, he decided to turn and stumble away. George didn’t take his eyes off of the man until he disappeared around a corner a block away. Once he was gone George returned his attention to his job, doing it exactly as he should until his replacement showed up. As soon as he was free to go he ducked inside the club, heading straight for the kitchen.

It was already pretty late, some time around two, so the kitchen had slowed down and switched to just doing bar food for the remainder of the night. After a quick look around he noticed that Xena and Zachary were the only ones working.

Then David’s in our room.

Suddenly feeling awkwardly nervous, George took slow steps towards the room, counting each footfall until he reached for the handle. That’s when he noticed that his palms were sweating. Damn it! I don’t get nervous! This is ridiculous! He thought as he rubbed his hands on his pants, then grabbed the door handle and yanked it open. What he saw made his face immediately turn red for the second time that day.

David stood near his bed, one leg  up, paused in mid-air as he held boxers in both hands, about to pull them up after he slid his second leg into its correct space. They stared at each other, their faces matching in color after only a few seconds. Then David lost his balance, stumbling his leg into the correct space as he pulled up his boxers, then fell down onto the unmade bed with a grunt. George watched, but he was suddenly much closer than he had been seconds earlier.

Standing by the bed, he watched as David pushed himself up into a sitting position, then looked up with a sheepish grin. “You caught me with my pants down.”

George raised a brow, noting with a look towards David’s bare legs, that he still had no pants on.

“Uh, touche.” David mumbled as he slid from the bed and grabbed a pair of shorts that had been discarded on the floor earlier, not wanting the fabric of pants to bother his burns. After he pulled them on, he turned to George with a big grin and pointed to the nightstand where a big plate was sitting with a bowl on it. In the bowl was spaghetti and meatballs, and beside it on the plate was a piece of the mouse cake George had requested from their deal.

George went straight for the cake, of course, but David was there before he could take a bite, and instead, stole it. “Mm, that is good. You need to eat dinner first, though.”

George glared as he sat down on the bed and put the fork David had just taken his first bite of cake from into his mouth.

“Oh now don’t pout. It’s just more important to eat the spaghetti first before the dessert. You haven’t eaten anything since breakfast this morning, so no arguing.”

He knew that, but his cake! He could just eat it first, then eat the pasta. It wouldn’t change anything but the order they made it into his stomach. George could have easily argued that, but considering that David had taken the time to make him a cake and dinner, he decided to just accept that he had to eat dinner before his treat.

“Fine,” he said, still grumpy as he dug his fork into the pasta and began eating hungrily.

David chuckled, but his laughter stopped abruptly when he leaned over and touched his fingers to the bruise forming on George’s cheek, making him wince.

“Where did you get this from?”

George thought about his answer for a quick moment before shrugging, swallowing his mouthful of pasta, and speaking with a nonchalant tone. “Your ex thought he was going to take you back. I changed his mind.”

David’s jaw dropped, giving George a nice view of his white teeth and pink tongue.

He has cute teeth.

Narrowing his eyes, George mentally chastised himself for the stupid thought.

“You may want to shut your mouth, or I’ll put something in it.”

He’d meant it as a joke, but of course David took it completely seriously and opened his mouth wider. Rolling his eyes, George stabbed a meatball on his fork and shoved it into David’s mouth, making the guy straighten and begin chewing, a frown on his face. While David was busy George dug into the pasta again, inhaling another couple of bites before David finished eating the meat ball.

“That wasn’t the kind of meat ball I wanted in my mouth.”

George sputtered, spitting pasta all over the plate and his cake as he choked on what had managed to slide partway down his throat. With David’s hand helping thump on his back, George managed to cough up the remaining food, then swallow it before gasping in deep breaths of air.

“You okay?” David asked as he moved back around to George’s front, looking down at him, worried. George shook his head, resting his forehead on an arm, elbow resting on his knee.

“You are the most perverted person I’ve ever known.” He finally said, glancing up. He expected David to brush off his comment with a joke, or another perverted one of his own, but when the guy reached up with his right hand and awkwardly dug his fingers into his hair, George knew that he wasn’t going to just play off what he’d said to him.

“I’m sorry. I don’t mean to sound like a pervert… I guess I just have a habit of telling the truth a bit too strongly.”

George wanted to nod and brush his words aside to finish eating, but the upset look in David’s eyes made him set his plate of food aside and pat his knee. Just like a small child, David jumped at the opportunity and sat down. He looked up at George for only a moment before leaning against his chest and looking down.

“David?”

David looked back up, worrying his lower lip with his teeth.

“What would you do right now if you could do anything you wanted?”

Brows raised, David pursed his lips, then licked them as his eyes lowered from George’s eyes to his lips. He began moving his lips, obviously trying to say something, but when he realized that no words were coming out he gave a frustrated growl and reached up, pressing his hand against George’s uninjured cheek and leaned up. When their lips met George’s pulse skyrocketed. He’d kissed a few people in his life, most of them relatives at family functions his mother forced him to go to, but even with random people he’d tried to start a relationship with, he’d felt nothing. With David, however, his body was immediately hard, and not just his six pack, biceps, or calf muscles. David tasted sweeter than any cake George had ever savored.

The thoughts suddenly running through his head made George feel like he was going to be starring in a porno any second. “Bathroom!” He shouted, getting up and running without a second thought. When he got inside the room he leaned over the sink, panting as he felt fingers nimbly undoing the button to his jeans and working them down.

Wait a second.

Just as he looked down David reached between his legs and pulled out his length from his boxers, then promptly took it into his mouth like a lollipop. It felt like fireworks were suddenly exploding in George’s head, which fell back as he moaned loudly. The whole situation lasted less than five minutes, his control lost when he shot into David’s mouth. He couldn’t even remember most of it as he sank down to the floor in front of David, trying to clear his swimming vision to see the man before him. When he was finally able to focus he noticed that David was rubbing the back of his head vigorously.

“Oh shit, are you okay?” George asked, reaching forward to press his hand against the back of David’s head, worried he might be bleeding since he noticed a bit of the paint chipped right behind it.

I didn’t even realize that I was thrusting!

Instead of answering with words, David chuckled quietly and leaned forward, stealing George’s lips with his own smiling ones.

Shock and Awe

I feel like there’s a waterfall going down my back and I’ve dipped my hands in a bucket of boiling water.

Frustrated with his nerves, Orion rubbed his hands on his pants and licked his lips. When Zachary stepped out of their room wearing a pair of black jeans and a nice button up shirt, Orion couldn’t help but tug him close for a hug and peck on the lips.

“Ready to go?”

Smirking, Zachary stuck his tongue out a fraction and started back for the closing door. “Nope!”

Not falling for the sarcasm he heard in Zach’s voice, Orion snagged the guy around the waist and let the door shut and lock. “Well, we’ve got reservations so you’re just going to have to make due without your make up and tie.”

He moved his hand to Zachary’s when the guy straightened, tugging him along beside him. “You made reservations?” He asked, making Orion chuckle as he hit the button for the elevator. It was evidently already on their floor and opened with a bing. When they stepped inside he answered. “When you took a nap after our escapade in the shower.”

Zachary’s blush settled his nerves a little. The door opened after it got to the first floor of their hotel and he pressed his fingers to the small of Zachary’s back to guide him from the elevator and out of the front door. “Where are we going?”

Orion tapped Zach’s butt after he opened the car door. “Nope. You’re just going to have to wait and see.” He said, shutting the passenger side door, then walking around to the other side and sliding in to get them started on their way. As he drove, Zachary continued to try and guess the restaurant but when he pulled the car into the parking lot of a tiny little hole-in-the-wall barbecue place, Zachary looked at him questioningly.

“Don’t give me that look. Just wait, by the end of this date you’re going to be in a food coma and worshiping me for showing you this amazing place.”

Orion had said it as a joke, but when Zachary replied, he couldn’t manage to close his mouth after it had dropped open in surprise. “But I already worship you.”

If Zach hadn’t hopped out of the car and ran to the door, Orion would have tried to tug him across the center counsel and steal a kiss or three. Resigned that the little devil had escaped him for the moment, Orion quickly slid from the car, locked it, then jogged over to where Zachary now held the door open for him.

“Thank you, sweetheart.” He said as he ducked inside. The place was rather full, but unlike some of the large chain restaurants, it wasn’t that loud. The hostess glanced down at her list when they walked in, then smiled up at them. “Orion?”

Orion returned her smile and nodded. “Right this way, please.” She said as she grabbed two menus and turned, guiding them to a little booth in the middle of the left side. After ordering two waters and taking a quick glance at the menu, Zachary looked up at him, but Orion was ready. “Can I order for you, sweetheart?”

He could see the hesitation in Zach’s face, but it was quickly changed to curiosity. “Okay.”

Reaching across the table, Orion squeezed one of Zachary’s hand and took the menu to place overtop his own. “You’ll love it, I promise.” He added a wink just in case, then looked over as their waitress came over and set down their drinks. “Hello guys, are you ready to order or do you need a few more minutes?”

Orion nudged the menus to the edge of the table. “I’m going to have number seven and he’ll have eleven with a side of corn nuggets.”

He glanced at Zach as he ordered, glad to see his boy smile at the knowledge that he’d get a familiar favorite barbecue food of his. Once the woman took their orders she disappeared to get them in to the kitchen, leaving them to speak for the short time before it would arrive. He picked this place because it was fast, but also because it was delicious. So, knowing that they wouldn’t have too long to talk, he folded his arms on the table and leaned forward with a grin.

“Uh oh, what’s that look for?” Zach questioned, pursing his lips. With a quiet chuckle, Orion motioned for Zach to lean closer, which he did after taking a sip of his water.

“Xena and I have been talking about promotions.”

Zachary’s left brow went up and he leaned back some. “I know, she’s going to make you partner if you get through some college classes.”

Orion leaned back as well, figuring that the dramatic flare wasn’t going to work. “Well, yes, there is that, but I’m talking about something else.”

“Oh? What else? Are you getting a promotion before that?”

With any other person, Orion knew they would sound jealous, but when Zachary’s eyes just lit up and he leaned forward again with a big smile, there was not an ounce of dislike in him.

All mine!

“I’m not talking about a promotion for me, sweetheart.”

That really seemed to baffle Zach, making him lean back again against the upholstery. The look of confusion on his face was just adorable. “Zachary, I’m talking about you.”

Their food came and their glasses were refilled before Zachary managed to close his gaping mouth. Then when he tried to speak, he only got out the word “I,” before his mouth got stuck open again.

Tsk, someone might try to put something that isn’t food in there if you keep hanging it open, Zach. In fact, I know a certain sub who’d die for the chance to have someone put something in his mouth that isn’t food.

Inwardly rolling his eyes at David’s sexual habits, Orion reached over and pinched Zachary’s tongue between his fingers and tugged. “I’m going to steal this if you don’t close your mouth. Remember, we’re in a restaurant.”

That seemed to finally get him, but not before he pulled his tongue back in and nipped Orion’s fingers. When he pulled them away Zachary began to spew words from his mouth.

“What do you mean me? I’ve only been working two weeks? Three weeks? I don’t know. But me? I don’t deserve a promotion yet. You must have heard wrong. Zachary is a common nam—mmph.”

Orion heaved a sigh, shaking his head and smiling as he removed his hand from Zach’s mouth. “Sh. Restaurant, remember?”

Zach slowly nodded, his face red from his worried outburst. “I’m sorry.” He mumbled, nibbling at a corn nugget to try and calm his nerves.

“It’s okay, sweetheart. But I am serious. Xena and I have discussed it, and I promise I didn’t push this, she did. She was literally shoving it down my throat that it was going to happen, so you’re stuck with it, I’m afraid.”

Zachary finished his corn nugget and moved onto the next, completely ignoring the delicious smelling pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw on his plate in front of him.

“Well, I just wanted to tell you this before we got back so it isn’t as much of a surprise… and I kind of wanted to be the one to tell you either way,” Orion added with a cheeky grin.

“Okay, um, what is the promotion?”

Orion knew he was probably thinking something along the lines of being a waiter or bus boy, but Xena didn’t like wasting people’s skills on things that didn’t highlight them. Since he’d taken a bite of his chicken, he quickly chewed, then swallowed before answering.

“She wants to train you to be floor manager.”

When Zachary went white, Orion quickly slid over to his side of the table and hugged him to his side with one arm. “You’ll do great, sweetheart. I need you to breathe right now though, you’re starting to turn blue.”

Zachary blinked, then took in a deep breath, then another. He shook his head after a few more breaths before taking a long gulp from his drink and turning to look up at Orion. “I… I get to train to be a-a manager?”

Unable to stop himself, because dammit if Zach didn’t look like a puppy getting its first toy, Orion leaned over and kissed him. “You deserve it. Xena’s been driving me nuts telling me how much you put into everything. She thinks she’s wasting you back in the kitchen just washing dishes when she can do them and put you on something better.”

When Zach didn’t reply, Orion continued as he tugged his plate next to Zach’s. “It will come with a two dollar pay raise. It’s not much, but once you are done training it will likely go up another two dollars, plus better benefits.”

“Wow,” Zach whispered, looking up at him as if he were a god. “Yes, sweetheart. Now eat before it gets cold. If you have any questions we can discuss them later, okay?”

After another moment of silence from him Zachary nodded, finally turning his attention to his food. His stomach rumbled loudly, making Orion playfully nudged him with an elbow before they both began to dig in. As he had figured, once Zachary began to focus on his food, he couldn’t stop. Pretty soon the entire giant sandwich was gone, along with the remaining corn nuggets and drink. Unable to hold himself back after finishing his own meal, Orion reached over and gently pressed his palm against Zach’s belly.

“Feels like you just ate a small child.” Orion said, laughing quietly before turning to hand their waitress his credit card as she approached with the bill. When she left Zach shoved his shoulder, but not hard enough to get him to move much.

“Taunt me all you’d like,” Zachary said before patting Orion’s own slightly distended belly. “But you seem to have a baby on the way now.”

The waitress returned before he could reply. Orion hastily tossed a ten on the table and tugged Zach out of the booth as the woman wished them a good night. The moment they were out of the restaurant they were hit with a blast of cold air. After eating so much it felt good, but they didn’t stop moving until they were back in the car. Orion got it turned on, making sure that the heater was started up, but then his attention turned to his boyfriend sitting in the passenger’s seat. He was staring right at him, grinning sleepily.

“Thank you for taking me out tonight, Orion. I had a great time.”

As if as an afterthought, he then added. “And now that we’re both pregnant with barbecue babies, I guess we don’t have to use protection next time since it won’t matter.”

Oh my god. You sound drunk on food.

Shaking his head, Orion leaned over and kissed Zach. He was going to just let it be a quick peck so his boyfriend could relax on the drive back to the hotel, but when Zachary opened his mouth for him, Orion couldn’t say no. He gladly deepened the kiss, bringing his arm around to hold the back of Zachary’s head. Their tongues tangled together as if they really were drunk on their meals, but neither seemed to mind. They just enjoyed the sensations and tastes they got from each other. Then, after at least a full minute, Orion leaned back with a quiet gasp. Zach did the same, both of them panting to regain their breath until their gulps for air turned into quiet laughter.

“You’re a dork,” Orion finally said on a content sigh as he got the car heading onto the road.

“Yeah. But I’m your dork now.”

And I will fight to keep you until forever.

“Yes sweetheart. Yes you are.”

Aren’t You a Monkey?

(Sorry this is super late but thanks for not hounding me with requests to update! I appreciate it. My back kinda died and is still a bit bad, but I really wanted to get this chapter done.)

David-

Staring up at the small neon sign of the Black Light gay bar and club, David felt his stomach twist into an even tighter knot. He had tried so hard to get George back into the mood after their tiny trieste in the bathroom, but each time he tried to even steal a chaste kiss afterward, the man flat out dodged him.

He wouldn’t even let me near him today, or while we slept. He slept on the floor!

Frustration had finally won out. If George didn’t want him. Thought him annoying. Which he’d verbally said several times in the past two days, then he wouldn’t bother him anymore. Someone will want me. He reminded himself as he straightened his shoulders and hesitantly stepped inside of the dark club, lit entirely by giant black lights fastened to the ceiling.

The music pumped loud from speakers placed about, just out of the way enough to not risk being run into as they blared the newest hits. The dance floor, something David never found of interest, was packed full with bodies gyrating in every direction against everything and anything. When a young guy at least a head taller than him slipped from the crowd and began stalking toward him, David weighed his options. He had come for some desperately needed attention and affection, but did he want an actual relationship?

No.

He had tried so hard to get George to like him, and even though the guy had said that his scars didn’t matter and David gave him the literal verbal offer of free sex and attention, he still ran.

If only Master Orion wasn’t taken. It was a selfish thought. David knew he had lost his chance with Orion a long time ago. Then when Zachary came into the man’s life? That had sealed the deal. He’d seen the way Orion stared at the guy. He worshiped Zach and David was pretty sure that Zachary saw a god in Orion, too.

“Hey there, cutie.”

Blinking, David looked up at the man now standing directly in front of him. He was handsome. Definitely knew it, too, judging from the way he was smirking down at him. Reminded by the unfamiliar lack of weight around his neck, David forced a smile.

“Hello.”

The man offered a hand, which David took. His fingers were strong, surrounding his and giving a strong squeeze that sent a small shiver down David’s spine.

“My name is Tommy, what’s yours, cutie?”

As the man spoke, he guided David over to the bar. Both of them took a seat and Tommy ordered them a drink.

“David.” He replied as he sipped at the beer the bartender slipped him. Normally he would check his drinks, but since the bartender gave it directly to him, he just hurried to get a few mouthfuls of liquid courage into his veins. He felt Tommy’s eyes on him, likely taking in his tight white jeans that flared slightly at his knees, allowing him to wear them without upsetting his healing skin. As well as his dark green long-sleeved shirt. After another full minute of looking, Tommy reached over and gently grasped David’s arm and tugged him into his lap.

“I hope I’m not being too forward, but I can’t help but want to touch.”

Even as he spoke Tommy’s hands were getting comfortable on David’s belly, beneath his shirt.

Why can’t George like me like this? Or at all…

Biting back a sigh, David nestled himself against the man as he felt fingers play gently over his belly. They remained that way for several minutes as music pumped through their bones. It was making him restless, and he knew Tommy could tell because he was fidgeting in the man’s lap. The reason David knew the guy knew? He was getting extremely hard beneath him . David thought about accepting the obvious offer of release and some much needed physical attention, but then he remembered his legs. Especially his burned one, but also the other one. Both were damaged and would be impossible to hide if he had sex.

“While I am very interested in getting you naked and in bed, might I offer just a short session as a dominant and submissive?”

He’s offering no sex… just attention and whatever I would be okay with.

Nodding, David quickly slid from Tommy’s lap and turned to smile and take his hand.

“Please.”

They walked to one of the back rooms he used to spend hours in with Domino before they began dating. He pushed all thoughts of him out of his mind and focused his whole attention on Tommy as they stepped inside. Tommy immediately pressed the switch on the door, telling anyone wondering that the room was in use, but not locked per the rules of the club. He then walked over to David and began running his fingers through his short hair. When David leaned into the gesture, Tommy guided him slowly over toward where they both knew a table would be that had several small ropes and cuffs. The club only supplied simple bondage items unless the patron decided to pay for others or brought their own. Obviously for sanitary reasons.

Just having the ropes, however, was plenty for David. He gladly turned when he felt a slight pressure against his side, silently asking him to do so. As the ropes began to slip around his wrists after he placed them behind his back, David felt the familiarity of the situation settle some of his nerves.

“How tight, hun?”

David lulled his head to look over his shoulder.

“Very.”

Tommy grinned and nodded, his dark brown hair swishing in front of his eyes as his hands worked expertly to secure the constricting rope. David let his head tilt back, expecting to feel a jolt of need begin to well in the pit of his belly that would make him beg for more… yet there was nothing.

Odd.

“Another?”

David nodded quickly, moving his head to look down at his waist.

Nothing.

He felt another rope, this one leather instead of twine, as it winded its way around his waist, then moved up and over each shoulder as they crossed his chest. When the ends were finally tied bruisingly-tight between his shoulder-blades, he still felt nothing but bland pain.

I probably just need to get used to it again. I’ve been starved for it for the past few weeks.

With that thought, he allowed himself to be touched, tied, and loved by the man he didn’t know. All clothing stayed on, but even as orders were uttered and obeyed, David felt nothing. Even as he was bound to a pole and hands roved over every inch of his clothed body hungrily, he felt nothing.

“Um…” David mumbled after another several minutes passed and he just got more anxious. He felt Tommy lean away and heard him sigh. A moment later and the man was unfastening the rope, then leather.

“I’m sorry.” David said as he rubbed his wrists to return some of the feeling.

Tommy shrugged, a half smile on his handsome face. “I have a feeling that I’m not the one you want trussing you up, David. I’ve never played with someone with less enthusiasm.”

He chuckled at the last comment, making David blush in embarrassment. Before he could get another word out the door was shoved open, the knob crashing against the wall before the door swung back and bounced right off of the brick wall-of-a-man standing in its frame.

“George…?”

Tommy shook his head, grinning from David to George.

“Ah, now that is a look I know. Too bad it’s not for me, cutie, but I’ll leave you with your dom now.”

He stopped by the door to clap George on the shoulder and wink. “You’re a lucky guy, I wish I could have stolen his heart before you got here.”

When Tommy looked down at the belt clasped in George’s white-knuckled hand, his lips quirked up into a grin. “Go get em’.” With that, the guy left. Leaving David to press his back against the wall as George stepped inside the room and shut the door, turning the little bolt that would symbolize the room being in use.

Uh oh.

He had no idea why he should be worried, though. George hadn’t wanted him! He thought leaving him alone would finally make him happy. “I don’t understand,” David finally whispered as George began to slowly stalk closer. When he stopped in the middle of the room, right next to the large queen sized bed, David felt his muscles bunch. He felt like a kitten being cornered by a lion.

I’m never intimidated. He’s not my dominant. I don’t answer to him!

“Come here, David.”

Yet, as soon as the man spoke, David felt compelled to go to him. To run to him. To get on his knees and just look up at him with all of the eagerness he felt in his bones to please the man.

Dammit all! He doesn’t want you, idiot!

Planting himself firmly where he stood, though it took all of his effort, David held strong. Even though he couldn’t even get the simple word no, to leave his mouth.

George seemed to realize that he wasn’t going to get his way so easily. He glanced around the room until his eyes landed on the twine and leather ropes that had been tossed on the bed. He grabbed them both, eyeing them unnervingly. He forced himself to steel his nerves against the obvious dislike for what the ropes really stood for and walked up to him. With only a dull lamp lighting the small room, David’s vision was basically stuck on George. Not that he would have looked away, even if he could. He’d prayed for days and nights that George would walk toward him with purpose… and with ropes in his hands.

The first thing he did when he stopped in front of him was to settle the ropes over his right shoulder and lean down, fastening the modified belt David had taken off before leaving Xena’s club. He’d set it on George’s small nightstand after he’d showered and gotten changed. With the familiar weight returned to his neck, David had to fight himself not to burst out crying. He wasn’t a crier.

“I’m sorry, David.”

What?

Jerking his head up a little higher, David bit his lip hard, then whispered out a quiet reply. “F-for what?”

Then George leaned down, grabbing his hair in a painful fist as their lips crashed together for a brief second. David’s mind was still spinning when George leaned away, the pain making his pants begin to get a bit too tight.

Why are you reacting now, you stupid body! He doesn’t want you!

“I’m sorry I’m an asshole. I’m sorry I don’t understand. I’m sorry your rope and pain fetish creeps me the hell out.” Thanks for that last one. “But dammit, David, just because I’m an idiot doesn’t mean you should just go off trying to get laid by random other idiot!”

David felt his face heating up, suddenly glad that the room was fairly dark as he mumbled, “I thought you were a monkey… not an idiot.”

George rolled his eyes, crossing his muscled arms over his chest with a snarky look. “Ape. I’m an ape.” He turned around, then glanced over his shoulder. “See? No tail. And I often feel the need to throw my feces, though so far my valiant effort not to do so has proven successful.”

Unable to help himself, David let a tiny chuckle slip from his lips. The faint sound seemed to light up George’s eyes as he turned back to face him and knelt down on one knee, taking David’s hands in his much larger ones.

“Please, David, give me a real chance? I can’t be what you’re used to or what you want yet. I don’t even know what the hell I’m saying. I’ve never really liked anyone and I sure as hell have never done what I did with you in the bathroom the other day, with anyone else. God damn that had freaked me out.”

When David made a face, George hastily continued. “N-not in a bad way. Just, dammit, I’m not a normal guy, okay! I’m disgusted by the whole BDSM thing you and Orion have going on. I hate your piece of shit ex and I really hope he comes back so I can bust his face up. I also suck at cooking, like, I could barely peal a banana without somehow hurting myself…”

David quickly interjected. “Pealing a banana isn’t cooking.”

George gave him a glare, making David bite his bottom lip to stop the grin that wanted to slip onto his face.

“So…?” George asked, his body uncharacteristically fidgety.

“So…?” David repeated, his own body language just as nervous, if not more-so.

They both eyed each other for several more seconds before George awkwardly began to lean in again after standing. His palm gently pressed against David’s cheek, and immediately, David leaned into the gruff feeling skin that proved George likely disappeared to a gym when he had time off.

“David?”

Blinking away tears, David swallowed and forced his eyes to remain on George’s. He tried to open his mouth and reply, but words just wouldn’t come out. Instead, not wanting to leave George hanging on such a vulnerable topic, he leaned up on his toes and pressed his lips fleetingly against the gruff man’s.

“I understand, and I’m sorry, too. I kept pushing you even though I knew you had no experience and were uncomfortable. I was just so used to being obsessed over, even in a bad way. Um, can we maybe try and start over?”

When George gave a tiny smile and nodded, David felt his heart give a little stutter. He hesitantly reached up, knowing that he had to remove the collar. Just for now. The idea of doing it still hurt though. He was just feeling the buckle out to undo it when George grabbed his wrists and moved them back to rest at his sides.

“That stays. God knows I don’t need someone else trying to steal what I’m trying to figure out. And I sure as hell don’t need to figure out if I’m the jealous type.”

David already knew the answer, judging from how he’d heard about George laying Domino flat on his back when he’d come to try and take him back. He’d keep that to himself though, not wanting to spoil the moment.

Oh my god. We’re having a moment!

It hadn’t really dawned on him until just then. Unable to contain his excitement, David leaped up and wrapped his arms around George’s shoulders. The hug was made even better when he felt strong arms awkwardly encircle him and squeeze.  

When he was finally set down from the hug, George leaned back in. David, of course, expected another kiss, but when he opened his previously-closed eyes, he realized that George was chuckling… and he now had a rope tied around his waist.

Huh?

“Come on, let’s go. I tied you up, now you’re officially mine, right?”

George tugged on the rope, making David move toward the door. It made absolutely no sense… and the rope belonged to the club, but as he was lead out like a cow being towed across a field, David couldn’t help but smile at the back of his frustrated new boyfriend’s head. 

“Yeah. That’s exactly how it works.”

Circumstance

-Zachary

After returning to the hotel Zachary hurried to relieve himself first, then darted into the room when Orion slipped into the bathroom to do the same. He knew he was acting weird, but he was excited, curious, and still carrying his food baby, which made him want to just flop over and pass out.

Not yet! He thought eagerly as he dug through the suitcase and tugged out the small item he’d slipped inside before they left. Staring at the handcuffs, Zach licked his lips and felt a well of nerves suddenly creep into his veins. He shoved it aside, however, when he heard Orion’s footsteps on the worn carpet, then felt the bed dip right behind him as the man climbed closer. When his chin settled on Zachary’s left shoulder, he finally turned his head enough to grin. “H-hey, Orion.”

“Hey,” he answered gruffly as his strong arms wrapped around Zach’s body, tugging him into his lap. Warm fingers slowly slipped beneath his shirt as he got comfortable against Orion’s chest, eventually tilting his head so that he could give Orion room to kiss. The man didn’t hesitate to take the offer, either. “Those are my favorite,” Orion mumbled against his throat as he used his teeth to nip and tug at the soft skin there. Zachary’s heart swelled with that knowledge, making him grin before he suddenly felt his shirt slip up and over his head.

Sneaky fingers.

He didn’t mind though. Especially because it was Orion. So, when he felt the man’s fingers run down his arms to grasp the cuffs, he gladly let them go. Within moments he felt his arms being drawn back, wrists placed together. Then the sound of handcuffs clicking into place echoed in the room as a whisper met his ear. “You’re under arrest for theft.”

Glancing over his shoulder, Zachary frowned. “Theft?”

Orion nodded, smirking as he glanced down to double check the cuffs. “Yes,” He replied, looking back up. “For stealing my heart.”

Zachary blinked. Narrowed his eyes. Then rolled them. “You did not just say that.” Lifting his eyebrows a few times, Orion chuckled and gently shifted Zach to the blankets. He then made himself at home leaning over him on his elbows, being sure to keep most of his weight off him. Zachary could feel Orion’s belly pressing against his own chubby one lightly, making him grin and wiggle. “I feel your baby.”

Orion shifted his weight a bit more, moving down so that he could press his lips to the slight rise in Zach’s stomach. “If only I could put a real one here…”

Zachary felt his face immediately begin to burn. He moved a little, but the handcuffs easily kept his arms from being of any use. Instead, he was left to try and keep from gasping when Orion began to lick along his lower torso and upper abdomen. His tongue was hot and wet, making Zachary bite back a groan. If Orion asked, he would likely have given him a free pass to go all the way. After what they’d done in the shower, as long as there was protection, he would have gladly accepted the attention. Unfortunately, Orion’s phone decided to ring at that moment, snapping both of them out of their fun. Zach could tell by the look in Orion’s eyes that he was planning to ignore it, but then thought better of it.

“Cruella de Vil’s theme. Xena’s ring tone.”

Ah.

Grinning, he slid off of Zach and sat down on the edge of the bed as he grabbed his phone.

“Hello?”

Zach could hear Xena rambling on the other side of the line, but what she was saying exactly, was lost to him. That left him having to wait, handcuffed on a bed and awkwardly turned-on. When Orion sighed into the phone a few minutes later, Zachary knew they were done for the night.

“Yeah, I got it. We’ll be back tomorrow.”

When Orion hung up, he carefully climbed back over to Zach and helped him sit up so that he could undo the handcuffs. “She needs us back tomorrow. No idea how she could have forgotten, but there’s a big inspection tomorrow and she needs us to help get the place up to par.”

Zachary sighed, frustrated as he felt the cuffs drop away. He moved his hands around to his front, then began to massage his wrists. “Why? Doesn’t she have her other employees?”

“One of them quit because of a move and the others gave her stupid excuses.”

Knowing that they didn’t have a choice, Zach didn’t bother trying to argue. Instead, he went back to the suitcase and grabbed the book they’d been reading together. He’d thought about bringing the math one, but this was a vacation. They should both enjoy what they’re reading. Well, he didn’t exactly enjoy it, but he loved making Orion happy, and reading it definitely would. Thus, it was a positive.

With the book in hand, Zachary flopped down against the pillows next to Orion and opened the book to where they had stopped. He felt the man’s arm go around him and tug him close, stealing a smile from Zach’s lips as he got comfortable.

“Cuffing and Cuddles.” He read aloud, trying not to snicker. He felt Orion’s chest moving against his side, bringing a grin to his lips as he began to read… only to stop when he saw several little notes scribbled in pen along the edges of the pages and a few scribbled drawings in the pictures. He specifically noted the little heart next to the first image of handcuffs on the page, sending Orion a look that got the man smiling wide. Shaking his head, Zach returned his attention to the book, trying to read the real passages that had to do with the images, but he kept finding himself wandering to the little notes instead.

I love having my lover handcuffed to my bed when I come back from work.

Zach’s face grew hot and he quickly went back to reading the book’s actual words. Orion had obviously written that for whoever he asked to read the book, no doubt. I wonder how many people have read this before me. Judging from the amount of randomly written and erased notes next to the ones Orion had left in pen, quite a few. And those were likely just the ones brave enough to write a response.

“Sweetheart?”

Hearing the worried tone in Orion’s voice, Zachary steeled his wavering nerves and looked up at the man with a small smile. “Hm?” Instead of answering with words, Orion pressed his warm lips against his, making Zach relax into the pillows. He felt Orion move slowly, tugging him into the curve of his body as he carefully deepened the kiss. It felt good having his attention, but Zack still felt nervous as the kiss ended.

“I won’t lie to you, Sweetheart. I’ve had several submissives, some more forward than others.”

Was that supposed to make him feel better?

“Look at me, Zachary.”

Forcing his eyes to lift, Zach’s met Orion’s. He knew he was frowning, couldn’t help it. When Orion gently pressed his palm against his cheek, Zachary let his eyes drift closed for a moment to nuzzle, then returned his gaze again.

“I love you, Zachary. Whoever came before you has no influence on us, and never will. Do you understand? When I think of who I want to see at the end of my work shift, it’s you. When I think of someone I want to take out to some fancy restaurant and spoil endlessly, it’s you. You are who I want to spend my time with. Who I want to spend my money on. Who I want to tie up and touch in the shower…”

That last comment ended with a wink, making Zachary look away with a blush. He understood though. Looking back at Orion, Zach pursed his lips, then leaned in for a chaste kiss.

“I love you too, Orion. I’m sorry, I jumped to conclusions.”

Orion chuckled and rubbed his hip against Zachary’s. “That’s okay.” Zachary returned the odd action, then just decided to get into his lap. Of course, Orion had no qualms with the decision and lazily wrapped his arms around Zach’s waist to tug him close.

“Alright, let’s finish this chapter before bed?” Zach asked with a grin. He got a nod in return, followed by a kiss to the top of his head before he started reading again. The chapter was surprisingly PG-13, which was really what he’d expected from the book. It just felt odd coming from the handcuffing chapter. When he got to the end he realized that they were definitely doing the cuddling portion of the chapter. His legs were intertwined with Orion’s among the blankets. Orion’s left arm was under his, fingers splayed on his bare belly while his right one reached around and grasped Zack’s left hip. He would have never considered being so physical with someone, not even during sex, but he couldn’t help but want to do whatever made Orion happy. And judging from the sleepy smile stretching across the man’s lips, he was definitely happy.

“Ready for bed?” Zachary asked with a tired smile of his own. He yawned as Orion answered with a quiet “Mm.” He didn’t exactly know what that meant, but when he was promptly lifted into Orion’s arms and toted to the bathroom, he realized that it definitely didn’t mean ‘yes’. When he was set down in front of the mirror, he figured it was to brush his teeth. Except, when he reached for his toothbrush, Orion already had taken it.

Zachary gave him a questioning look but didn’t even need his actions explained when his sleepy mind registered what it was Orion wanted to do. He gave a small nod, waiting for Orion to put a dollop of toothpaste on his toothbrush and wet it before he hopped up onto the counter and opened his mouth. It was a bit odd at first, but when he felt Orion’s gentle hand settle on his cheek as his other one worked the toothbrush thoroughly through his mouth at a content pace, Zach couldn’t help but feel wanted.

So odd.

The brush glided along his teeth and gums from one side to the other, then meticulously returned to where it started after reversing for a second go. Once Zach slid from the counter and rinsed his mouth, Orion lifted him right back up onto it and produced a small container of floss. Zach thought about not letting him do it, just to mess with him a little, but his half-lidded, eager eyes made the idea disappear as he tilted his head back and opened his mouth.

“Good boy. Thank you, Zachary.” Orion whispered as he got to work flossing each tooth, being careful not to accidentally hurt him. When he was finished Zach’s mouth tasted like fresh mint, and after a moment, Orion knew it, since the man leaned over after throwing away the floss for a kiss.

“Mm. Go get in bed, Sweetheart. I’ll be there in a moment.”

Without a word, Zach hopped off the counter and hurried to bed. It didn’t take Orion long to join him, his own teeth scrubbed clean and flossed. He slid into bed where Zachary had left the covers pulled back, then hurried to hug his body against his own. Once comfortable, he tugged the blankets over both of them and took a deep breath on a yawn. When his mouth closed, Zach’s lips were there.

“Love you, Orion.” He mumbled after ducking his head against the man’s warm neck. “Love you too, Sweetheart.” Orion responded quietly, his arms giving Zachary one final squeeze before they both slipped off to sleep. Their vacation might have been cut short, but Zach was content with the time he’d gotten to have alone with Orion. The man continued to change his life for the better each day, and he couldn’t wait to return the favor by making him never regret it with smiles and love.

When One Door Opens

-Orion

Squeezing Zachary’s hand gently, Orion gave his boy a smile before they both slipped out of their respective doors and into the crisp, morning air. After grabbing the suitcase, he followed Zach inside. Xena was already helping David with prep when they walked into the kitchen. Orion had originally intended to complain about losing part of his only vacation in over a year, but when Zachary ran over and hugged Xena, thanking her for the promotion, he couldn’t help but bite back his upset and smile when his boss glanced over at him with a smirk.

“Couldn’t help myself.” He said with a shrug. When Zachary ran back over to him, Orion happily scooped him up in a tight hug. “You deserve it, Sweetheart.”

“Yeah, he does. Now he needs to get his cute butt to work. Come with me, I’ll go over the basics before your shift starts tonight.”

Seeing Zach pale with the knowledge that he would be training for manager immediately, Orion gently rubbed his back for a moment and kissed his forehead. “It’s okay. You’ll do great. Get goin’.” He said cheerfully, giving his boyfriend a tap on the butt as he hurried to follow after Xena.

“Someone’s smitten as a kitten.” David purred, drawing Orion’s attention and earning a glare. The guy looked much better after everything he had gone through, and he was smiling like he was the one that was smitten.

“Says the kitten to the tiger.” Orion returned as he walked over to the fridge and grabbed a bottle of water.

“ Meow, “ David said. Orion thought it was a response to him and turned to retort, but then he noticed George standing awkwardly in the doorway. His large size took up almost both doors and… “What are you wearing?”

It looked like one of his own leather ‘shirts’, and by shirt, he meant leather wraps. The poor guy had visible red marks from previous ones David had obviously made him squeeze into, but they just didn’t seem to suit him in Orion’s opinion. Not that he’d let that dissuade him from poking fun at the giant guy.

Sauntering over, he slid his finger between one of the bands of leather and tugged. “I must say, you look quite… interesting, in leather.”

Noticing that he was pushing George a bit too far already, Orion quickly backed up, letting David slip in between them. The guy diffused the situation with a chaste kiss, immediately quieting George’s growing grumbles. When it began to look like he was doing a bit more than just trying to tamp down George’s anger, Orion hastily ducked around them and slipped out of the kitchen. He didn’t have anything planned in between right then and his shift. Xena had taken his Zachary away, leaving him oddly out of place. Eventually he decided to go work on some of their homework. Since Zach would be much busier, he figured he’d appreciate having the work done so he didn’t have to stay up late just to get it turned in on time.

Of course, he won’t copy it until he makes sure that he understands the material. Which was one of the reasons why Orion gladly got to work on it back in their room. He worked for hours, especially focused on the math equations. He was so focused that he actually didn’t hear the door open or realize Zachary was there until he literally climbed into his lap, shoving the laptop aside with a mischievous grin. 

“Mm, hello there, Sweetheart.” Orion purred as he accepted the kiss Zach offered and hugged him to his chest. “It’s almost time for work,” Zach said, making Orion glance over at the small clock he kept on his night stand.

“Oh. I must have lost track of time.” He mumbled, returning his gaze to Zachary as he grinned, proud. “But I got our homework done.”

Relief flickered in Zachary’s eyes even though he was scowling a little. “Oh don’t tell me I shouldn’t have done it all. You have responsibilities and today, at least until right now, I had none.” He paused for a moment, then amended his statement as his grin grew wider. “Well, besides you.”

Zach rolled his eyes and scooted off his lap, then turned to offer him a hand up. Orion took it, standing and stretching with a quick yawn. “Guess I’ll go make sure my room is clean.” He mumbled as he followed Zachary out of the room after grabbing a few lengths of leather. “By the way, how was your first go at training?”

Zachary gave an excited hop as he looked over his shoulder, smiling. “Great! I can’t wait to start! I know if I try my hardest, even if I make a few mistakes, I’ll still be helpful to Xena.”

That’s my boyfriend. Orion thought as they parted with one final kiss. He headed upstairs as Zachary went to the kitchen to steal a quick bite before people were going to be let in. Hurrying up the stairs, Orion quickly ran a vacuum over the floor of his room, then checked the bar before tugging off his shirt and fastening the leather he’d brought up around his upper torso. Normally he would wear one of the preconstructed “Shirts” he had in his closet, but he wanted to make his own that night. By the time he was finished and set up at the bar, people began walking in.

Time to get to work.

And work he did. Orion had never been so busy! He almost felt like calling in a server from downstairs to help, but then realized that if his own room was swamped, it was more than likely to be hell in the dining room. On my own then. No problem. He steeled himself and pushed through wave after wave of patrons. Thankfully, most just came to drink that night, giving him a break from his normal entertaining. It was nice, considering the only person he wanted climbing on him was working his little butt off downstairs.

I wanna see him…

He knew he would later, but considering he’d been working for at least five hours straight without a single second to breathe, he decided to excuse himself for a moment. His patrons looked frustrated, but after a smile and a wink, they all settled down and he hurried out the door and down the stairs after looking the cabinet doors to the alcohol. He expected to find Zachary easily among those working the floor, and he did, but when he saw who he was speaking to…

She looks just like him.

Worry welled in the pit of his stomach as he strode over, wrapping an arm gently around Zach’s middle, tugging him backwards for a quick hug. It was a possessive gesture. One that he knew wasn’t appropriate in front of a customer, and likely, a relative, but Orion wasn’t feeling very friendly. He had taken Zachary out of a dirty alleyway, so surely this woman, whoever she was to him, was up to no good.

“Hey Orion,” Zach said after giving an awkward laugh and looking over his shoulder, unable to turn in Orion’s grasp. “Um.” He looked back at the woman, his face visibly changing to an embarrassed red. “Mom, this is my friend, Orion.”

Mom? Friend? Friend!

He rarely got angry, but Orion wasn’t happy about just being called a friend.

“Nice to meet you, Ma’am.” He mumbled, not offering a hand to shake. From the look on the woman’s face, she wasn’t interested in shaking, or touching him, at all. Instead, she just nodded, then turned her attention back to Zachary.

“Baby, will you please come home? I can pick you up right after your shift is over.”

Orion felt his breath being forced out of him. Home? This is his home! With me!

He wanted to scream his thoughts aloud. Then to tell the woman to get the hell away from his boy, but then Zachary smiled slightly and his eyes began to water. Hope. That’s what Orion saw there. An emotion he thought only he could bring out in the guy.

“Okay, mum.”

What?

The woman beamed and leaned forward, ignoring him as he kept Zach close against him and hugged her son. “Wonderful! I will see you in a few hours, Sweetheart!”

The second the woman left Orion grabbed Zach’s elbow and pulled him off the floor and down the hall, not stopping until they were in his bedroom. He really wanted to blow up at him. Scream like a damned jealous asshole, because that’s exactly what he was, but he forced himself to take several deep breaths and release his tight hold on Zach’s elbow.

“I am very confused, Zachary. What just happened?”

Zach gave a nervous shrug as he moved to sit down on the edge of the bed. Orion couldn’t stop pacing, no doubt making Zachary more nervous as he began to talk.

“Well, um… Mom came to invite me back home.”

Orion bit back his response, which consisted of something along the lines of Hell no, you’re mine! Instead, he stopped pacing and stood still, crossing his arms over his chest as he waited for Zachary to continue. There had to be more than that. When Zach seemed to understand that he wanted something else, he hesitantly licked his lips.

“Well, my father is um, in the hospital. She said that I-I could come home if I helped her with the bills.”

Bull shit!

They were exploiting him! Orion would bet money that his dad told his mom that he had a job just to get money from him!

“Zach, please. You need to consider this. They threw you out when you were telling the truth about your dad. Now your mom wants you back, but just to pay for bills?”

He could tell that his words stung. Zachary was no fool, but Orion could tell that he might very well accept the ridiculous offer his mother gave him just to be home again. This is your home. He wanted to say, but for some reason, didn’t. Instead, he watched Zachary fidget nervously on the edge of the bed, twisting his hands together.

“I’m not going to let you go back there. As soon as your father is out of the hospital, they’ll get rid of you. Then where do you think you’ll be, Zachary?”

Zach looked up then, his eyes wide with fear.

“Here…?” He whispered, blinking as he tried to keep tears at bay. Orion forced down an angry growl at Zach’s nonchalant words. He expected him to just let him go home , then come back when they threw him out again?

“No. Zachary, I know they are your parents, but you need to think this through! You know they are going to use you, and I don’t want to let that happen.”

Zach narrowed his eyes, then slowly stood from the bed. “So what? You think I should just leave her to pay for everything when she obviously can’t?”

He hadn’t meant to make Zach upset, but now that he was, Orion couldn’t help but meet him with his own frustrated glare. “Yes, I should. You have a decent job here, but you can’t think that it would make much of a difference with bills of someone staying in a hospital.”

Zachary ground his teeth together, fists balling at his sides. “I am homeless, Orion. Not helpless!”

With a huff, he started for the door to return to work, but Orion quickly grabbed his arm and swung him around. “Zachary, please, you need to realize that you’re walking into a very painful situation. A very fake situation. I know you’re not helpless, but you need to think about this!”

“I don’t care! I won’t turn my back on my family, even if they eventually kick me out again.”

Orion’s blood boiled with frustration.

“You would take the risk of being homeless again to help a family that threw you away for being a good son?”

Zachary swallowed, his eyes rising to meet Orion’s after a quick glance away.

“You mean that I… I won’t be able to come back…?”

Hearing Zachary’s voice crack at the end of his sentence made Orion’s heart want to do the same thing. He knew that he would never shut his door on his Sweetheart. He would never push him away, no matter how many illogical things he did. But for some reason his tongue was stuck to the roof of his mouth, keeping him silent as Zach slowly, silently, walked out of the room.

Silence is a Fist

(Thanks to those that have been patient. Been really busy and actually read a book or two to get a break from writing.)

George-

“Xena is gonna kick your ass the second she smells that.” George said with a bland tone as he eyed Orion lounging on his bed with a blunt between his lips. His head turned on his pillow, dilated eyes rolling.

“Whatever.”

George huffed, walking over and snatching the stick of marijuana from Orion’s mouth. He felt a slight burn as the tip pressed against his skin, but ignored it as the lit portion snuffed out.

“And I might just take first shot.”

Orion forced himself to sit up and yawned, rubbing a hand over his face as he eyed him. “It’s just pot. It’s not like I shot up or anything.”

The first punch felt good. Damned good. Been too long since I’ve done that. Mentally shrugging, George hit him again just for the hell of it, then dropped his heavy weight down onto Orion’s bed, sitting on the edge. “First off, I’m not going to sweet talk you to make you feel better about this decision. We’re just going to accept the fact that you’re a dumb ass. Good? Great.” He patted his knees once in finality, then continued. “Second, I hate talking, so if you interrupt me I’m going to make sure your other eye matches the one that’s currently changing colors. Okay? Awesome.”

There was a short pause as George licked his lips once. “Now then. Instead of actually thinking about the situation that had happened, you just let yourself drown your sorrow in drugs.” Orion opened his mouth to interrupt but when George held up one of his fists, he seemed to think better of it.

“Now I’m going to dispose of this and you’re going to take a shower then pee till it’s out of your system.”

Orion blinked, finally finding enough courage to sneak in a sentence. “That’s not how it works.”

Instead of arguing, George just narrowed his eyes in warning, officially making Orion clamp his mouth shut. He couldn’t give two shits how it worked as long as the idiot didn’t lose his job over his damned drug relapse. Thankfully he could easily see his arms and there were no new marks among the multiple old ones.

“Anyways, as soon as Zachary comes in for work tonight you’re going to apologize.” When Orion started talking again, George shoved him back into the headboard and grunted. “Shut up. We both know that you would crawl back to your parents if they asked for your help. Yes, he’s an idiot for doing it, but he’s your idiot, idiot.”

He paused again, then, seemingly having nothing else to say, stood up and walked to the door. Right before he opened it and stepped out, he looked over his shoulder and glared. “And don’t you dare get anymore drugs. It took me long enough to get used to you and I sure as hell won’t tolerate Xena getting rid of you for another dumb ass.” He then slammed the door shut, grumbling to himself about talking so much and people being stupid in general.

Since he didn’t have to start work for another thirty minutes, he decided to duck into the kitchen. Of course David was already there, back from his appointment with the doctor earlier that morning. George would have come, but since David could now drive on his own and he hated people with a passion, he decided to stay in bed.

“Hey George! I’m going to assume that you didn’t eat breakfast yet.” David chimed a bit too cheerfully as he offered him a plate of scrambled eggs, bacon, and grits.

I hate grits.

It even had some cheddar and pepper sprinkled over it but that didn’t make it look anymore appealing. Not that he was going to complain, though. Instead, George mixed the disgusting small bowl of slop with his eggs and forced them down together, then hurried to rid the taste in his mouth with the pieces of bacon. As soon as the plate was empty David took it, replacing it with another full one as he leaned up and pressed a light kiss to George’s lips.

“I love feeding my Master,” he whispered before setting the dirty plate in the sink and turning to grab his own to begin eating. George licked his lips before eating his second plate of eggs and bacon, glad that David had left off the grits this time. As he began washing the dishes from their meals after they finished he thought about telling David that it was nearly time to open, so it had to be at least late afternoon, but figured that he was just making a joke since he didn’t bother getting out of bed until half an hour ago. So, instead, he finished the dishes quickly and then turned and reached forward, yanking David’s collar hard. The guy stumbled forward, arms flailing as their bodies collided, lips slamming together. When he felt David press himself closer, George carefully twisted the collar around his fingers, tightening it until he heard David cough out a quiet moan.

He lasted about two seconds after that before releasing the guy and shaking his head.

“You are so fucked up. I still can’t comprehend how being choked painfully is any kind of pleasurable!”

David just smirked at him and licked his slightly bruised lips, making George heave a sigh. Thankfully he hadn’t been required to wear any leather today, at least.

“I’m gonna go to the front,” he mumbled quietly before hurrying out of the kitchen as a chuckle sounded at his back.

Weird!

He paused for a moment outside of the kitchen doors and glanced back through one of the two porthole windows. David had returned to the stove, but now he was all business getting things ready for the early diners. And boy could the man move around the kitchen! His hips were especially interesting to watch as they swayed back and forth as he got different things from the cabinets and fridge.

…dork.

Smiling to himself, George took his spot just outside the front door and relaxed against the wall as the crisp night air cooled his warm skin. It must have been at least fifty out but even in a T-shirt, it didn’t bother him. What did, however, was hesitantly walking up to the building like he might be attacked if he made a wrong step.

You and your master are both a pain in my ass right now, kid. He thought angrily because he knew he couldn’t actually say those words aloud. He’d scare Zachary away or at least make him worried. The idiot was always worried about something, which was somewhat understandable since he had been on the streets before. He tried to sneak in without a word, but George easily stepped in his way, his huge body easily blocking the entrance as he crossed his arms over his chest.

I can’t believe how much talking I’m having to do for these two fools today. My throat already hurts but for once, I don’t think it’s a waste of time. Hopefully. If the idiots would just stop being stupid.

“First off. You’re an idiot.”

Zachary stared at him, frowning but not seemingly upset.

“Second. Your equally stupid boyfriend is in his room probably smoking another joint of pot because you left him so abruptly yesterday. You can’t just do that, kid, even if mommy comes crying back to you. Orion deserves much more than the brush off you gave him.”

Zach’s face had gotten considerably more pale as George went on, its shade nearly white when he finally stopped to take a breath.

“Listen, just go talk to him and don’t say something stupid, okay?”

He blinked, then sniffled and nodded.

“Good. Now get, you’re late.”

His eyes widened and he hurried past, darting into the restaurant as George snickered and turned to start checking ID’s again. He hoped that that was the last he’d have to do to mediate dumb and dumber, but he doubted it.

Funtastic.

If he had spoken out loud, the sheer sarcasm and distaste in the one word would have sent the four patrons waiting in front of him scurrying away immediately.

Good thing I know that I’m not a nice person and keep my words mostly to myself.

The idea had him grinning, making the patron at the front of the line flinch and look down nervously.

Because It’s You

Zachary-

Being home again hadn’t been as amazing as he’d thought it would be. Well, he’d hoped it would be. With his father in the hospital Zachary thought he might have his mother’s attention, if only for a short time. He knew better than to think that he would be allowed to stay once his father came home, or even after he handed her his first pay check as manager, but he couldn’t help the overwhelming wave of hope that had taken over him when she’d shown up at his work and asked him to return.

I’m such an idiot.

He bobbed his head, nodding several times as he walked into the kitchen to get a plastic bag and fill it with ice. Considering how angry George appeared to be, he had no doubt that Orion might have paid the admission fee for the stern talk they both likely got. It took an awful lot to make George angry enough to actually start speaking in full sentences to anyone besides Xena and David, but to actually force him to stop and talk outside of the restaurant?

Yeah, he’s definitely going to have a bruise or broken bone.

Shaking his head, Zach sealed the zipper bag and wrapped it in a papertowel before turning and heading down the hall to Orion’s room, ignoring David since he was obviously in the zone, cooking. He could smell the pot before he even got close, making his stomach twist nervously. He wasn’t worried so much about the drug as he was of the fact that Orion could get fired because of it. He’d read the documents Xena had mentioned when he’d first gotten hired. Especially the part about it being a Drug-Free workplace.

I doubt smoking inside said workplace is going to go over well.

Biting his lower lip, he grabbed the handle to the door and turned it, then pushed it open and slid inside before letting it close itself behind him. The first thing he noticed when he finally looked up was the dark swelling around Orion’s left eye. Without even thinking about it, he ran over and climbed into the bed, pressing the ice pack he’d made gently against the bruised skin. He could feel Orion’s other eye watching him as he sat there, both of them silent but needing to speak.

Minute after minute passed, their breathing the only sound that occupied the room besides the faint bustle of people beginning to come into the building. They had to start working soon or Xena would come in and just make things worse.

I don’t like things being bad between us. I put myself in a situation that I knew wouldn’t last… but that doesn’t mean that my choice didn’t affect him, too.

Looking up, Zachary blinked back a few tears, only letting one escape to trail down his cheek. It didn’t make it down to his chin to fall, though. Orion’s finger gently pressed against his skin and wiped the tear away with a hesitant, small smile. Just seeing the slight lift to his lips made Zachary sniffle again and hurriedly mumbled as he fell into Orion’s arms. “I’m s-sorry!”

The ice pack slipped from his fingers as they dropped to rest on Orion’s shoulder. He felt nearly suffocated with how tightly Orion was squeezing him but he didn’t care. It felt good. Being back in his arms felt good. Far better than when he’d stepped back into his parent’s house. Got a tiny, strained hug from his mother.

“I’m sorry, too, Zachary. I was so surprised by what happened yesterday, and how quickly, that I didn’t say what I needed to.”

His arms relaxed around him slightly, making Zachary snuggle in closer, not wanting him to let go. “I’m sorry, Zachary. No matter how surprised I was and, yes, upset, I had no excuse for not saying that you will never be homeless, no matter the decisions you make. No matter how many times you leave or come back… or how long you intend to stay. You’ll always have a home here.”

It took Zach a few moments to get control of himself before he could look up into Orion’s gentle eyes. Even with the left one being rimmed in purple and black, he was still handsome. And the man I’m still in love with. Who still wants me even though I did something incredibly stupid yesterday.

“I’m sorry, too. I did something brash and stupid yesterday. I lost my normal train of thought and just got so focused on going back to that stupid house. It didn’t even feel like a home, either. It was so dull and even with all of the lights on it felt dark. Like I wasn’t meant to be there.”

A tiny smile slipped across Orion’s lips as he leaned over and bumped his nose against his.

“You were meant to be right here, Sweetheart.”

Zach couldn’t help but nod at that. There was no doubt in his mind that Orion was right. He had just not used his head yesterday, and had paid for it with a night of no sleep and a stomach so worried about what the next day would bring that he hadn’t eaten since he’d left work the day before. Just to prove his point his stomach grumbled, making Orion’s chest rumble with laughter before he scooted them over to the side of his bed closest to the mini fridge. Once he was situated again back against the headboard Orion reached over, tugging the door open before removing a small container of strawberries.

Mmm.

They were bright red and plump, making Zach’s mouth begin to water immediately.

“We need to get to work soon but there’s a certain stomach in here that needs filled, and I believe that’s my job right now, so open that little mouth, Sweetheart.” Orion said as he opened the container and lifted a strawberry to press against Zach’s lips. He didn’t need anymore coaxing to take the sweet fruit into his mouth and chew, then swallow. It was absolutely delicious, making him moan as he eagerly leaned forward to take the next one heading for his mouth.

Eight strawberries later Zachary was up, yawning as he stretched his arms over his head and his shirt road up a little. Orion didn’t hesitate to tap his belly, making him jump and grin.

“Before we get to work, I’d like to know if you are going back to your parent’s house tonight, Zachary.”

Zach knew why he was asking. Sure he wanted him to stay because they were dating, even after their mistakes yesterday, but he had a feeling that Orion was asking mainly because of the dark circles beneath his eyes and his previously-growling stomach. He thought about it for a long moment before slowly shaking his head.

“No. I went there yesterday and it’s just that. Their home, not mine. There wasn’t even anything in my old room. Mom just gave me a small blanket, not even offering the sofa. No offer of food or anything. Not even this morning.”

Orion took a step forward, tugging him back into his arms. Zachary pressed his forehead against his chest and sighed quietly. Taking in a deep breath before letting it out. The strong scent of marijuana reminded him of one more thing they had to discuss before work. Looking up, he narrowed his eyes slightly and pursed his lips.

“I know, I know. You’re mad at me for smoking. I’m sorry that I did something so stupid. George took the only marijuana I bought, and I won’t go near that stuff again.”

Zachary gave him another look and Orion rolled his eyes as he mussed up Zach’s hair. “I swear, Sweetheart. It was a big mistake and I’ll go tell Xena before I start my shift. I think I’ll be okay as long as I come forward and be honest about it. Sure I might be punished for it, but eh, I can handle it.” He winked at that, making Zachary blush.

“So, are we okay now? Do I still have my Zachary?” Orion asked, his hand held between them as he took a slight step back. Zachary gladly closed the gap again and slid his hand into Orion’s larger warm one.

“Yes. As long as I still have my Master.”

The look on Orion’s face told Zachary that he did, indeed, have his Master still, even before Orion nodded and began leading him out of the room. Once in the hallway he could hear people busily milling about as patrons talked amongst each other. They stopped just out of view and Orion pulled him into one more strong hug before stealing a brief kiss.

“I love you, Sweetheart. Let’s keep what happened yesterday in our minds but don’t dwell on it, alright? Mistakes are meant to be remembered so that they are not made a second time.” He said with a reassuring smile.

Zachary returned the smile and nodded in response before he headed over to the small locker Xena had given him with his promotion and took out his name tag and Manager in Training pin. Once he was all set he looked over his shoulder and watched as Orion stood watching him, a relieved look on his face that Zach couldn’t help but mirror.

We’re okay. Mistakes are meant to happen. They make us stronger… But I hope I never make such a bad one again. I don’t ever want him to hurt like that again because of me. I don’t want him to hurt again, period.

“Head in the game, Sweetheart,” Orion whispered against his lips, making Zachary jump at how close he’d gotten.

Oops. I zoned out.

“Have a good shift, Zachary. I look forward to having you back in my arms tonight.”

After tucking a strand of Zach’s hair behind his ear Orion gave a small wave and turned, disappearing around the corner to find Xena before he headed up to his room to work. Once he was gone Zachary took in a deep breath and blew it out, then licked his lips and smirked. He’d thankfully managed to fix everything that had been worrying him and with a slight skip to his step, went off to find the assistant manager Xena told him to shadow that evening.

I really owe George a cake. Or two.

Right

Hearing the doors to the kitchen swing open wasn’t something that usually took David’s attention away from cooking, but when he heard heavy footsteps approaching, he hurried to turn and lift the spoon he’d been stirring a dark chocolate sauce with.

“Ah?” He questioned after blowing on the hot syrupy liquid a few times to cool it. When George stopped in front of him, David hurried to lift the spoon a little higher so that he could sample the small treat, but instead of going for the spoon George ducked his head a little lower and began biting at his lips.

He wasn’t the best kisser… by far. In fact, he was quite terrible at it when he was trying hard to be good. When he was half asleep and relaxed? Decent. Not that David was upset about it either way. He loved getting the kisses, period, but the ones that ended up making his lips bruised, even bleed once? Those were heaven!

No wonder I scared Orion when we tried to date…

“David?”

Hearing George’s breathy words. Feeling his breath against his lips. Hot and moist, made his stomach knot with need.

“David, you’re dripping chocolate down my back.”

Forcing himself to focus, David slowly unwrapped himself from George, having not even realized that he’d literally climbed the man like a monkey, then locked his arms around his neck and legs around waist.

Oh, oops. The spoon.

Lifting the object up, he frowned, noticing that most of the chocolate was absent from it. Silently, he reached over and gently grabbed George’s arms, turning him after a bit of resistance.

Yum!

Since George had tugged off his shirt due to the unusually warm weather outside and was now gripped in his hand, the chocolate had dripped mostly on his skin. It’s getting close to the waist of his jeans… better make sure it doesn’t stain them. That would be bad.

Smirking to himself, David leaned over and hungrily began licking his way up George’s warm skin. He felt his muscles bunch and twist beneath the attention of his tongue. A low groan echoed in the room as he got to the spot just beneath George’s shoulderblades.

“Mm? Feel good right there?” He cooed, poking his tongue out to swirl in a slow circle. The muscle bunched suddenly as a shiver ran down George’s spine and he grunted.

Normal grumpy George. Always refusing to answer any pervy questions.

He let it slide, however, because he knew Xena would kick both their butts if they didn’t get back to work soon. So, instead of bugging George, he double-checked that he’d gotten all of the chocolate off him, then wrapped his arms around his waist from behind for a quick hug.

“Love you,” he mumbled against George’s skin, making the man turn in his arms and settle his large hands on his shoulders, then lean forward. “Huh? You mumbled.”

If I hadn’t, you probably would have fidgeted, then walked away. Just like last time.

Instead of saying what he thought, David just grinned up at George and stole a quick kiss.

“I said thank you. For coming to visit me during your break. I look forward to seeing you.”

George’s left brow rose slightly and he shrugged as his eyes darted around the room awkwardly. “We live together, idiot…”

David chuckled, nodding before walking over to the fridge and pulling out a small plate, then grabbing a fork. “Here. Dinner service is ending in a few minutes so there will be no more orders for the chocolate cake.”

Well, there had been a few orders wanting the last piece, but George deserves it more! Besides, when I said it was out, they just got a different dessert.

The look in his master’s eyes was well worth the slight pang of guilt he had for keeping the last piece hidden in the fridge. Any other person would have probably told him that he was feeding them way too many sweets and that they would be the cause of them getting fat, but George just grinned, took the cake, and kissed his nose.

“Thank you, David. I’m working a double tonight, if I forgot to tell you, so be sure to be in bed when I get back.”

David nodded, remembering that George hated it when he waited up for him on long shifts. It wasn’t that George didn’t like seeing him, but he always looked half dead when he stayed up too late. Which he had over the past several days. He tried to entertain himself, but he ussually just got bored and ended up rolling around in the bed or trying to read a book he wasn’t really interested in.

“Okay, Master.” He slipped in quietly. George only raised an eyebrow at the word and set his cake down for a moment to tug his shirt back on, then took the food and turned, walking out with his cake and fork.

The tiny victory made David spin around happily… only to freeze when he saw the chocolate sauce he was making for the next day bubbling and burning.

“Crap!”

“David?”

“Hey David, wake up.”

A slight shake on his shoulder made David groan. When it didn’t happen again, he stretched his arms over his head, taking a deep breath as he felt a few of his bones pop from the action along his shoulders and legs.

“David, I want to have sex.”

Sputtering as he choked on a breath, David jerked himself into an upright position. The room was still dark, the only light on was coming from the small lamp on the bedside table. Beside it, George stood in all of his muscled glory. His shirt was already off again, which David didn’t mind one bit. 

“Did I um, hear you correctly?” He muttered, rubbing at his left eye, which just refused to accept that it needed to stay open. Suddenly George’s strong hand was pushing back the bangs that had slid in front of his face during sleep. It stopped near the base of his neck, gently coaxing his head forward and into a painful, blissful kiss.

“Clothes. Off. Now.” George growled against his mouth.

David’s heart jumped in his chest as he fumbled with his pajama pants, then boxers. It was a bit tricky considering George refused to let their lips part for more than a moment to catch their breath, but after a bit of awkward shifting and a few tugs, he was naked before the man.

“Take mine off.” George said, his voice calm and steady despite the kiss that he finally had just broken. It left David gasping for breath, yet he seemed to be almost completely recovered already. David hurriedly leaned forward, fumbling with the button to George’s jeans before tugging the zipper down and dropping the pants to his already-bare feet.

When he saw the obvious outline of his length standing at attention just beneath the thin layer of George’s boxers, his mouth watered. An overwhelming need to nuzzle and touch warred inside of him with the need to please his master. Fighting himself, he carefully removed George’s boxers. When they hit the top of his jeans, he slowly stepped out of both, then nudged them to the side with a foot. That left him completely naked. His well-muscles, slightly-tanned skin bare to David’s hungry gaze. He ate up the sight of the man, glad that he was finally allowed to look without a reprimand.

“Gorgeous,” he sighed as he reached forward, stopping just inches from touching George’s thigh. Instead of doing what he desperately wanted to, he looked up and licked his lips.

“May I touch you, Master?”

George’s eyes dilated as they met his. Lust was the most evident emotion in them, and boy if David wasn’t feeling himself being consumed by it. There was also something else in him that possibly started with L, but he knew George wasn’t ready to hear it.

“David.”

Groaning with need, David settled back on his heels on the bed and panted. “Yes, Master?”

“David?”

His brow furrowed in frustration. “Yes?” He said, confused as to why George just kept saying his name.

“Wake up you creepy twink!”

A pillows slapped him hard in the face, bringing the dream to an abrupt end and leaving him stunned, lying on his back staring up at George in the dim light of their room.

Ow. And just when it was getting good.

Sitting up, he glanced at the clock beside him and yawned.

Four A.M.

When the bed depressed and he felt his bare thigh press against George’s clothed one through the thin blanket, David caught his breath.

I seriously took my pants off while asleep?

The thought startled him, but not as much as the dark red blush covering George’s face. It even reached back to the tips of his ears, lighting them so that the new color was easily visible even in the dim light coming from the bedside lamp.

Had I been making sounds? Did he hear me? Did I start humping the bed!

George’s normally-downcast lips tugged up into a very faint smile as he leaned forward and kissed David. It only lasted for a moment before he leaned back. “You looked like you were having quite an… Interesting, dream.”

Oh god!

It was bad enough that he was a serious pervert on the inside, but now George knew just how much!

“Um I–mmph?” Lips closed over his before he could finish trying to downplay whatever he’d done in the bed while asleep. They didn’t stay long, but as soon as he tried to speak again, George cut him off with another kiss. When he finally dropped his hunched shoulders and sighed, George backed off again.

“Shut up, okay?” He said as he got up and headed toward the bathroom. At the same time he began to unbutton his jeans. David did as told, his eyes following the man’s every move. When the bathroom door didn’t close though, not even when George dropped his pants, he was confused.

He hardly ever leaves the door open when he gets naked to shower.

When his boxers dropped next and he stepped out of them, his shoes having already been removed by the door, it seemed, David felt his whole body heat up. Tingles traveled from his brain down to his fingertips, making them itch to touch. Everything about the damn guy was perfect in his eyes. The large but well-distributed muscle. The decent brush of dark hair that traveled down his chest to fan out around his length.

I wish my hands were there instead of his hair… Wait, no I don’t. I wanna play with his hair, too.

Jealousy spiked in his belly, then humiliation. He was seriously getting jealous over George’s darn pubic hair!

That doesn’t sound desperate at all!

“You need to shower.”

Blinking, David slid out of bed, blushing when he noticed the slightly sticking feeling against the tip of his length as his slid from the blankets. Humiliation. Yup, that sounds about right.

He really didn’t want to embarrass himself by walking into the bathroom and having George see, but to his surprise, George had left the light off and part of the curtain open in the shower to let the small amount of light from the bedside lamp in, no doubt.

He always turns the light on when he comes back to shower tho— Understanding swamped his senses, quickly followed by happiness, and a little, tiny bit of love. Okay, a lot of love. The guy was practically showering blind because he already knew. That also means that he’d seen him cum… Yet he wasn’t making fun of him for it at all. With a grin growing by the second, he hurriedly tugged off the soiled blanket and replaced it with a smaller one from the closet, then ran into the bathroom. He was so excited that he actually smacked his left hip into the side of the doorjamb, but just ignored it after a hiss to climb into the shower.

George was already there, obviously about to begin washing his body considering the soapy washcloth in his hand. Even in the dark, however, the man had evidently seen the eager look David hadn’t been able to hide, and hesitantly handed him the rag and straightened a little.

“U-um… Wash me please, D-David?”

David’s eyes began to water at the order. The order from his Master! He made himself calm down just enough to take the cloth carefully, then began to enjoy the best night of his life. Which, honestly, he thought would have been full of sex. Yet there he was, just washing his new Master’s body beneath a warm spray of water.

Finally. Finally he’s starting to let me in.

He couldn’t hide the enraptured smile that slid onto his lips, nor did he want to as he moved the cloth over every single inch of George, savoring the feeling of him. Every part of the man that he was trusted to clean. And clean he would! George was going to be spotless when he finished! Well, except for a few tiny little kiss marks…

It’s Okay

The evening went well and Zachary returned to their room around one. Of course, he’d slipped into the kitchen to let David know to make George a cake for him, and that he’d pay for the ingredients. The guy had been all smiles, seemingly in his own world. He also had a bit of chocolate sauce on the side of his mouth, but Zach let it be. George would probably get it later, anyways.

Unsure if Orion had returned yet or was still working, Zachary made sure to be quiet as he entered the dark room. When the door clicked shut he turned around, only to feel his face burn. Orion was standing by the bathroom door, naked, his tight leather pants in his hands, as if he were about to toss them aside into the laundry hamper.

“I was just about to rinse off before bed. Would you like to join me, Zachary?”

It took him a moment to form words in his mind to answer, and also to stop staring. Unfortunately, when he tried to voice them, they were mute. Well, so much for saying something sexy to make him smile. Instead, he nodded, walking over as Orion ducked into the bathroom. Once inside he grinned, having predicted correctly that Orion wanted to remove his clothing for him. The man was thorough in his work as he undid buttons and gently pealed away his shirt, pants, then boxers.

There was only a small light plugged into the socket in the bathroom that was on. Just enough light to make sure that they didn’t trip or run into things. Also, it was just enough to be able to see each other in the dim bathroom. And right then, Zachary was grateful for the atmosphere. It was dark, quiet, and Orion was staring at him like he was the only thing that mattered.

“Are you okay?” Zach whispered as he felt a palm gently press against his cheek and tilt his head up a little.

Orion seemed to understand that he was asking about everything in general, especially what had happened in the past few days. He smiled sadly and leaned over to press a kiss to Zach’s lips before leaning back just enough to speak.

“Xena and I came to an agreement. I got no payment for working tonight as punishment. Also, if it happens again, she will have to let me go if I don’t agree to go to rehab. Not because the drug itself is that bad, but because she knows that it will lead me to the deadly ones…”

His voice grew quiet as he finished speaking, leaving out the obvious insinuation that Xena doesn’t ever want to have to see him dead. “She really cares about you,” Zachary whispered as he pressed his forehead against Orion’s and sighed, content.

“Yes. I made a mistake and I’m going to be stronger because of it. Now then… may I tie you up while I wash your beautiful body, Sweetheart?”

Zachary could tell by the slightly tense tone to the man’s kind words that he likely needed some type of control, after having lost so much abruptly the other day. He smiled and nodded, honestly okay with whatever the man wanted. He calmly got into the large shower. Orion followed him in quickly, arms reaching around his waist to tug him into a gentle hug. Zachary chuckled quietly, letting Orion pull him back against his chest. He felt a few light kisses press against his neck and gladly tilted his head, giving his master more access.

“I love you,” Orion whispered as he tugged him a little closer and began nipping at his skin. As Orion got a little more rough with his affection, Zachary knew that it would leave marks. He didn’t mind though. They both had turtlenecks if they needed them.

When Orion finally seemed satisfied that his neck was covered in enough kiss marks he leaned over him, nudging at Zachary with his hips until he was flush against the cold wall. The cool tile forced a shiver down his spine. “Just stay still for a moment, Sweetheart. Then you can squirm as much as you like.” That last part was said right next to his ear, making it really hard not to start squirming immediately.

His arms were guided upward, then his hands splayed over the tile. “Stay just like that,” Orion whispered. He seemed to back away for several moments, making Zachary a little nervous. He wanted to ask what the man was doing. To turn around and see for himself. But he refused to go against the obvious order. He trusted Orion. So, he worried his bottom lip and stretched his arms a tiny bit, but remained right where he was told.

When Orion finally returned at least a minute, if not two, later, his large hands gently settled on Zach’s waist, thumbs pressing softly against the skin of his lower back in smooth, slow circles. The need to move hit Zachary hard, but he forced it back and just gave out a quiet moan at the simple, yet intimate attention.

“What would you like me to do, Zachary?” Orion whispered against his ear before gently tugging it between his teeth.

Another quiet moan left Zach’s lips at the question. He could already feel himself getting hard, but he didn’t want to sound like a pervert by asking for it to be taken care of so abruptly. Besides, he’d been hard before from Orion’s attention, and Orion definitely had been, too. That didn’t mean that they had to get relief right away.

“Talk to me…” He whispered in return, then added. “Touch me.”

When Orion pressed a kiss to the middle of his back, Zachary could tell that his lips were lifting into a smile. He never replied, but as he began to kiss down his spine and then move to his left butt cheek, treasuring each touch with his lips, Zachary couldn’t help but feel absolutely loved. In any other situation he would have thought Orion was belittling himself by kissing his backside, but he treated the skin there just as every other inch of him that he came upon on his journey downward. When he finally got his left foot, he gently lifted it and after leaning over in a kneeling position, kissed each toe.

“I apologize. I am having trouble forming words.” Orion spoke against the top of his foot as it rested in his hand. Zachary understood. He was also unable to think clearly, even though Orion was just holding his foot right then.

They remained silent for several long moments before Orion stood, reaching over Zachary’s head to begin winding the leather straps around his wrists. He was gentle but skilled as he worked, making sure that the bindings were tight, but not painfully constricting. Zachary allowed some of his weight to be taken by the leather and leaned back, loving the feeling of having Orion’s strong chest at his back. His master was clearly hard, but held back his needs.

He’s always holding back. Being courteous. Never asking for what his body wants.

Zachary had no doubt that Orion was used to it, and didn’t even think about his arousal half the time. Yet…

“Master?” He questioned quietly.

Orion had his lips against his shoulder, gently sucking to form a mark there as his dark eyes looked up to meet Zach’s. “Yes, Sweetheart?”

Licking his drying lips, Zachary forced back his nervousness and straightened his posture a little against the warmed tile. “Would you like to make love to me?”

Orion’s breath seemed to catch at the question, his eyes growing wide. Hunger took over them in mere moments, silently telling Zachary that he had been right. The man had just been holding back. When he finally managed to respond, Orion sounded oddly breathless as he lifted his lips from Zach’s shoulder.

“Very much so, Sweetheart.”

Hearing a hint a nervousness in Orion’s words had Zachary’s stomach suddenly filling with butterflies.

“I… I want to. I just, um, need lube…”

It wasn’t his fault that his hole was smaller than most. The few times he’d had sex he absolutely needed lubricant or he’d end up crying and bleeding. Neither of which were very romantic to him, or his partner at the time. His cheeks burned but when Orion just stepped out of the shower, only to return a minute later with a few things in his hand that Zachary couldn’t see too well, he knew that he had at least gotten something to help.

“I’ve got a couple of things that should be able to help.” Orion said as he knelt on the tile floor. Zach could hear him unwrapping packaging and wanted to look, but didn’t want to twist around since he was still tied up.

“I’ll use this first, okay? It’s a numbing agent. I won’t use too much though. I still want you to be able to feel the pleasure, but hopefully not the pain.” He said right before Zachary felt Orion’s hand gently move one of his cheeks aside slightly, allowing him to apply the clear gel with what felt like a Q-tip. It actually seemed to work almost immediately, numbing the area just along where he usually hurt the most during sex.

He heard Orion recapping the item and then saw him toss the Q-tip in the garbage. The next item being opened was clearly a condom judging from the sound. It was applied after a moment, then the last item was opened. The sound of a lid unsnapping told Zach that it was the lube.

“I have several different kinds of lube but I think this one would be best this time. The others are a bit more for pleasure than to ease pain. This one is really good for sensitivity.” He said as he squeezed a portion into his hand, then snapped the lid shut and nudged it into the corner after throwing out the other packaging.

“I trust you.” Zachary mumbled, still extremely nervous, but glad that Orion had thought to use the numbing gel and also the best lube, instead of just the stuff that was meant to enhance pleasure.

“That means the world to me, Sweetheart. I’m going to start, but if at any time you feel uncomfortable or start hurting, promise you’ll tell me, alright? I will never be upset if you tell me to slow down or stop.”

Zachary nodded, pursing his lips as he began to feel Orion’s fingers faintly through the numbness near his hole. He thought it was going to hurt terribly when he pressed a finger inside to begin trying to stretch him, but when he just felt a little ache, he blinked. Surprise took over his expression and he couldn’t help wiggling his backside a little, drawing a gruff chuckle from Orion as the man placed kisses along his neck.

“I can’t believe… it. That feels… so much better than… it used to.” Zachary moaned quietly. When Orion added another finger a moment later, he felt his body arch into his fingers, another moan leaving his parted lips.

“I’m very glad, Zachary.” Orion whispered, voice husky as he added a third finger. That one made Zach tense, a hiss leaving his now-clenched teeth. Orion immediately stopped his intrusion and held absolutely still, not wanting to make the pain worse.

“M-more lube p-please,” Zachary finally gasped. He could already tell that Orion was using a good amount, but there was no argument at all as the man reached down and flipped the lid open with his left hand, then added a generous amount to where his fingers had partially pulled out. When he added them back, Zachary heaved a relieved sigh. It still hurt, but he was able to manage it if he focused on the tile in front of his face.

It was at least several minutes later when Orion let his fingers slip from him and Zach could feel his large length press up against his numb entrance. Immediately his heart sped up, fear pulsing through him no matter how hard he tried to keep reminding himself that it wasn’t going to be as bad as it had been before. It always did end up feeling good, but after several tries, it almost wasn’t worth it.

But now it shouldn’t be nearly as painful. It already has been better. And he’s been so patient. He deserves to get this release.

“Are you alright if I give it a try?” Orion asked as he placed a few kisses on Zachary’s soft hair. Knowing not to trust his voice, Zach slowly nodded, biting his lower lip to keep his teeth from clicking together with worry.

“Okay. If it hurts too much, tell me.” Orion replied before very, very slowly beginning to push himself inside. He had added another good amount of lube over the condom, but Zachary was only able to keep himself quiet for a few seconds. He moaned, sure, but the sound was very clearly pained. Orion paused, waiting for Zach to tell him to pull out. To stop. When he didn’t, Orion slowly nudged himself a little further, but as soon as Zachary cried out again, he carefully remove himself.

Immediately Zachary tried to look over his shoulder to tell him not to stop, that he wanted it, but when he felt hands on his wrists, undoing the leather, his heart sunk into his stomach. He won’t do it… It hurt. His little bit of pride popped like a balloon and tears welled up in his eyes as the straps fell away and Orion slowly turned him. Even moving his legs that slight amount hurt, but he didn’t complain. He’d wanted to have sex, yet Orion still stopped!

“Sweethaert…”

Zachary swallowed a lump in his throat and bit into his trembling lower lip. He was frustrated, yet he knew he couldn’t let it get the best of him. Still, he couldn’t help looking up at Orion. “Wh-why? Why d-did you stop? I-I didn’t s-say too.”

“Zachary. Believe me, I would have continued. And I am sure we will soon… Only another day.”

Orion’s voice was so calm when Zachary just felt like shouting. It made him more upset, but at the same time it reminded him that Orion was trying to reason with him. To take care of him. He had stopped because he was in severe pain. He hadn’t taken pleasure from him when it would have been terrible for Zach until near the end.

“I see the wheels turning in your eyes, Sweetheart. Please don’t be upset. I have been dying to touch you like I just did. You are everything I’ve ever wanted, and I am so proud of you for being able to come forward and tell me one of your weaknesses, and at the same time, be willing to try and overcome it with me.”

When he leaned in and pecked his lips, Zach sniffed. Orion gave a quiet chuckle in response and ran the back of his fingers along Zachary’s cheek, wiping away a stray tear.

“I love you, Zachary. May I finish touching you so that we may both get release, then wash this beautiful body of yours?”

Zachary didn’t even need to think as he nodded, wiping away his remaining tears as Orion smiled and got the water started. He made sure it was warm before turning on the spray and reaching out to him. Eager to please the man after having ruined their previous moment, Zach hurried into his arms. They pleasured each other beneath the warm shower, then Orion thoroughly cleaned every inch of Zachary’s body, treating him as if he were royalty. When the shower was finally turned off, Zachary was teetering on the edge of sleep, leaning against the wall. He had a content smile on his face as Orion dried him after doing so for himself.

The bathroom blurred, then disappeared as Zachary’s eyes shut after another moment. He felt himself being lifted, then carried, but when his back was gently settled onto the blankets of their bed, he felt his mind completely relax as he slipped into a deep sleep.

(P.S. If you haven’t checked out Reverse (malexmale) yet, and wish to, please do so soon. It will be removed for publishing likely later next month. It is complete besides an Epilogue.)

Think

“Master George!” David shouted as he ran into their room, clearly having just picked up his check from Xena since he was sliding it into his wallet, then slid the wallet into his back pocket.

George looked up from where he knelt on the floor, finishing tying his shoe. David appeared to nearly have a heart attack at the sight of him in a suit with fancy shoes and a tie. He definitely drooled, too, but at least he managed to swallow it before making a fool of himself again. He’d already drooled three times in the past two days, though George wasn’t counting the five times in the shower when he’d washed him two nights ago. He could also see in the guy’s eyes that he was thinking something disturbing.

“You’re turning red. So either you’re naked and embarrassed that I’m staring and not touching, which is clearly not correct, or you’re thinking about something incredibly perverted.”

David held up two fingers and George nodded, figuring that he meant the second option he’d given. George then stood and brushed his suit off slightly. He then walked over and grabbed David’s hand, pulling him out the door. “Where are we going, Master?” David asked as they left the club and slid into George’s car. He wanted to argue that he didn’t like being called anyone’s master, but he kept his mouth shut.

It was a little cold outside and since he hadn’t given David a chance to change, he reached into the back seat and grabbed the coat he left there. When he handed it over to David and he put it, George nearly starting laughing. It swallowed the guy, but judging from the content smile on his face as he snuggled into it, he knew that he appreciated the gesture. Or he was thinking about doing something weird to the poor coat later.

I need to remember to make him leave it in here when we come back.

Still ignoring the previous question about where they were going, he drove for several silent minutes before pulling into a crowded parking space. Then he unbuckled his seatbelt and waited.

“Um, are you sure this is where you meant to take me?” David asked hesitantly. “A-are you trying to give me to someone else? I’m not that annoying, right?” He questioned, worry suddenly making his voice a little higher.

Damn people and their overthinking and emotions.

“Just get out, David.” George grumbled as he shoved his door open and climbed out, then stalked around the other side and, since David wasn’t fast enough, opened the door and tugged him out. He already had a headache brewing, and they weren’t even inside the building yet.

Why am I doing this again? George asked himself as he stomped inside, dragging David by his collar until they were sitting at a table. He had noticed that the place served food when he’d pulled David out of it last time.

Glancing at the small menu, he chose a couple things he was interested in, then looked up to see David still standing beside the table, clearly confused considering the wide-eyed look on his face.

“Sit.” George grumbled. David did, but he didn’t really look at the menu.

Is he broken or something? Come on! I’m trying here! It’s a BDSM place and I’m taking you out!

That’s what he’d want, right? Why wasn’t he looking at the menu? Looking down at his own, he noticed that there wasn’t a whole lot besides the basic bar food on it, but that should be okay, right? Food was food as long as it didn’t taste like dog turds.

“Um, George?” David mumbled just loud enough to be heard over the music, which was thankfully playing as background noise until later in the night.

George glanced up at him, raising his eyebrows in question.

“Are you okay? Your face is really pale and you’re fidgeting with the menu a lot.”

I don’t get pale and I’m not fidgeting. He grunted in his mind, but then looked down to see his fingers playing with the frayed edges of the tiny laminated menu.

“Come on, Master.” David said, suddenly standing beside George and offering him a hand up. Reluctantly, George took it and let himself be pulled from the booth. When they got back to the car, David actually rushed in front of him, taking his seat behind the wheel when the car was unlocked with the fob.

No one drives this ape’s car… He thought, about ready to toss the guy out and take his appropriate seat. However, when David looked up at him, sticking his lower lip out slightly and giving him the biggest puppy eyes he’d ever seen, he ground his teeth and walked to the other side of the car. Once they were both in and buckled up, he glared daggers at David, but let the guy take the keys and get them on the road.

His patience was dwindling as the minutes passed, which was visibly clear as he flexed his hands on his knees, gripping and relaxing as if they were a stress ball. A really shitty stress ball.

“We’re here, Master.” David said with a light tone to his voice as he hurried to hand George his keys back, then step out. George pocketed his keys and locked the car after getting out. Looking up, he frowned, not necessarily upset about their destination, but surprised.

“Is this okay?” David asked hesitantly as he hunched into the huge coat he still wore. With a shrug, George nodded and followed him inside once David smiled. A hostess met them right away, leading them to a table in the tiny Mexican restaurant and taking their drink orders.

David looked much more relaxed as he began looking over the large menu. It was actually pretty daunting. Five pages full of just meal options. Then there was another full page of appetizers and then a another of specialty drinks. The longer he looked, the more stressed David seemed to get.

“Hey guys, are you ready to order yet or do you need a few more minutes?” Their waitress said, drawing their attention to her. George glanced over at David, who had jerked his head back down and now scanned the menu worriedly. He was clearly trying to find something, though he hadn’t even gotten to the last page of entrees yet.

“Yes. I’ll have number four, but with extra jalapenos and tomatoes.” He paused for a moment, staring at David for a moment before licking his lips and awkwardly adding. “And he’ll have, um, number fifteen with sour cream on the side. Also, we’d like an order of chips and quesso dip please.”

The woman smiled and nodded, taking their menus before walking off. George watched her go, then turned to see David quickly look down at his lap. He hadn’t looked away fast enough, however, to hide the bright blush warming his cheeks. Nor the relieved smile. Unsure of what to really do, George looked around the little restaurant for a few minutes before their chips and dip came. He ate a few, watching as David eyed the cheese dip cautiously. George already knew that he wasn’t a big fan of cheese, or really most dairy, unless it was used in pasta dishes… and only if he was the one who cooked them.

Fidgeting slightly, George darted his eyes around the busy, yet quiet restaurant and took a chip, dipped it into the gooey melted cheese, then looked over at David.

“Open your mouth.”

Shocked by the sudden order, David automatically did as told. George set the chip in his mouth and watched as David closed his mouth and chewed. At first he frowned, obviously thinking that the cheese would taste bad, but when his brows shot up and he swallowed, then licked his lips, George smirked.

“That was surprisingly good.” David mumbled, reaching for a chip and dipping it before eating it.

“This is the best Mexican restaurant in the city for a reason.” George said, almost sounding like he was gloating. It was his favorite, after all. He narrowed his eyes slightly as he watched David eat another chip. Darn, the idiot knew I liked this place. He probably heard me talking about it when Orion asked for a good Mexican place he could take Zachary to.

“Have you been coming here long?” He asked as he nibbled at another chip. George nodded, taking a few chips and dipping them in cheese as David spoke again.

“I’ve lived in this town for a long while and never really thought to go in here. It just seemed like it would be one of those dirty diner places.”

George rolled his eyes and swallowed his food before responding. “Some places around here are, but this one is gold.”

David smiled and gave a light shrug. “True. Never know till you give it a shot.”

George nodded, leaning back slightly when their food came. The place was tiny, but the portions were gigantic and didn’t cost you an arm and a leg. He’d gotten chicken tacos with seasoned rice and black beans, while he’d ordered a taco salad for David, since he’d noticed the guy always tries to sneak in a salad at some point during his day, and he hadn’t noticed him do so yet before or during work.

“Mm, looks great.” David said as he dipped his fork in the sour cream, getting just enough to add flavor, before spearing seasoned black and pinto beans, some greens, corn, and tomato. It was a vegetarian dish, but if he wanted any chicken George would gladly share his.

They ate in silence until content, then picked at their food until David finally spoke.

“Thank you for taking me out tonight,” he said with a smile. George grunted quietly, chewing a bite of food. He glanced up at David after swallowing, then reached over and wiped his thumb along the man’s lower lip, removing a small bit of sour cream before putting his thumb into his own mouth. When he looked back at David after removing the sour cream from his finger, he couldn’t help but snicker. The guy was bright red!

He wanted to pick at him for the blush, but since they were both basically done with their food, the waitress came over and put the bill on the table. George checked it, then tossed some money on the table before getting up and pulling David out of the restaurant. He felt a bit bad that they hadn’t talked much, or really interacted on the date in general, but he really wasn’t used to interactions in general yet. When they got to his car, he turned on David, grabbing his arms.

“What else do you want to do?”

David frowned, giving him a confused look before an idea seemed to flicker in his eyes. He held out his hand and gave a hopeful smile, making George roll his eyes but hand over the keys. David drove them to a small mini mart just down the street, running inside and grabbing a pint of ice cream and some plastic spoons before returning and driving back home.

George had a feeling that the ice cream wouldn’t be going directly into either of their mouths as he was guided through the club and back to their room. Once inside he watched David go into the bathroom, but when he didn’t come out and the sound of water hit his ears, George walked in. Instead of starting the shower, however, he plugged the drain after setting the ice cream and spoons aside. Once the tub was filling, he turned, a bit startled to see George, but didn’t waste time as he stepped up to him.

Oh boy, he looks like a kid about to beg for some candy.

Feeling himself twitch slightly in his pants, George looked sideways at the sink for a moment, then back to David’s eager eyes.

“Master George, can I clean you again? Please?”

Again? I don’t really want to wash until tomorrow morning…

He was just opening his mouth to tell David that, and that they should go eat the ice cream in bed or something like that, when his mind decided to change the words that came out.

“Take your clothes off.”

David blinked, looking a little surprised. He snapped out of it quickly though, and hurried to get out of his clothing. He stood naked in front of George not a minute later. His shoulders were back, head held high and chest out. Proud, even with more than half of his body covered in scars.

You should be proud, David. George thought as he reached over and settled his fingers beneath David’s chin, then lifted it so that he could easily kiss him. It was hardly ever a French kiss, as he wasn’t a fan of using his tongue yet since he knew he rather sucked at basic kissing. At least he didn’t accidentally bite David right then, like he had his first few tries.

When they separated, he pointed to the bathtub. “Get in and turn off the water.”

While David hurried to do as told, George tugged off his suit jacket and undershirt, then knelt next to the bathtub. He knew what he should do to make David happy. Touch him. Love on him like a puppy. Hurt him to a point… but that particular part wouldn’t happen for a very long time, if ever. And that’s when it hit him as he sat on his heels, looking at the man’s worried yet excited face.

He wants me to be his lover and I can barely touch him after weeks.

Heaving an exhausted sigh, he grabbed the edge of the bathtub and dropped his forehead to the cool porcelain. He was overwhelmed with the simplest things. It was embarrassing and frustrating. No doubt David was likely frustrated with him, too, after going from sex likely every night to barely touching at all. Of course he didn’t beat the guy, but maybe he would have been happier with Domino in the long run.

“George…”

Sniffling, he looked up, propping his chin on the edge of the tub. He couldn’t quite see David for some reason, though. He blinked a few times, getting his vision cleared a little bit, but it didn’t help nearly as much as when David swiped his thumbs gently beneath his eyes.

“It’s okay.” He whispered with a sad smile.

George huffed quietly, rolling his eyes, a bit annoyed that they felt like they were tingling or burning slightly. David licked his lips, then chuckled a little as he suddenly reached forward, grabbing him beneath his arms and yanked him forward, hard. George flailed into the tub, splashing some of the water out as he went under. He hurried to kick his shoes off, as to not damage them by getting them wet, then got himself turned around enough to sit up. He could easily hear David’s laughter as he spit out a mouthful of water and rubbed it from his eyes, grumbling a few choice words.

When his vision was just about clear again he felt a cold glop of something drop onto his head. It didn’t take a PHD, or even a high school diploma to realize that David had just dumped the partially-melted ice cream onto his head.

“You did not just do that.” George stated in a monotone voice that held absolutely not emotion.

“I believe I did. I think chocolate looks good on you, honestly.” He said, winking as he began to lick the liquid remains in the container. George watched him for a moment as he felt the ice cream drip down his cheeks and onto his pants. He’d have to get them dry cleaned. He’d also have to scrub his hair a good amount to get the sticky dessert out of it.

With a very slight grin, he lunged forward abruptly and grabbed the paper bucket. Before David could react he shoved it down over the guys head, pushing a bit hard and twisting it to make sure the remained of the gooey treat was worked into his styled hair. When David finally managed to remove the bucket and toss it out of reach near the , George couldn’t help but burst out laughing. David was blushing badly, but he had a glint in his eyes that made George hesitate in his laughter.

“It’s on.” The blond-turned-chocolate-brunette said as he promptly tackled George beneath the water, splashing a good amount out as they both went under for a moment. George shoved David aside as he surfaced, scowling as he lunged for the guy as he came up for air. There wasn’t a whole lot of room for both of them, which made grabbing the annoying twink easier, but he was also naked, making his body frustratingly slippery.

“Hold still you little bastard!” George growled, panting has he reached for David again. He managed to get him under again, but then the guy slipped away, of course. They’d been trying to dunk each other for the past ten minutes or so, and so far, regrettably, David was winning. But it was strictly because George still had his pants on so David had something to hold onto that couldn’t slip out of his grasp!

“Aw, babe. I’ve got something I’ll gladly let you grab.” David cooed, making George blush and grumble. There was barely a few inches of water left in the bath, as most of it was now on the tile floor. No doubt Xena would kill him if he didn’t remember to clean it all up, but right then George just didn’t give a damn.

Instead, he darted forward, finally getting a firm hold on David around his chest… only for his knees to slip out from under him. His weight dropped onto David, pinning the man beneath him. He hurried to remove his arms and his weight, but when he tried to push himself up, David reached around his neck and gently coaxed him back down. There was nowhere near enough water to worry about him going under it, so he hesitantly allowed himself to settle back down.

David’s hands slowly moved up to his short hair. It had grown slightly, but was just barely enough to run his fingers along.

“Hey,” David finally whispered after a few moments of silence.

Not sure what to do, George repeated the word and looked away at the white of the tub. David’s fingers slowly moved from his hair to gently press against his head, eventually getting George to rest it down against his warm chest. It was such an awkward circumstance they were in at that moment, but somehow George found himself relaxing as he sighed out a tired breath. David’s fingers hadn’t stopped stroking his short hair after he settled down, and George didn’t want them to stop.

Soon he felt soft kisses press against the top of his head and his right cheek. Each movement made some of the muscles beneath his left cheek tense and flex. Over the next several minutes the kisses grew in frequency, then the whispers came. They were sweet nothings, but each one made George’s normally cold heart beat a little faster.

“Hey George?” David asked quietly, his face appearing in George’s line of sight.

Blinking as he yawned, George pushed himself up in the cold water and rubbed at his eyes.

“You dozed off for a few minutes,” David said with a content smile on his face.

I had?

“Oh,” George mumbled as he got himself to his feet and started the shower. David joined him, looking quite exhausted himself. They both rinsed off quickly, then George removed his clothing and dried himself as David did the same. After cleaning the floor they fell into bed, David on his side and George on the other. When David gave a big yawn and stretched his arms over his head, however, George reached over and tugged him up against his chest.

There was no argument or an awkward statement pointing out that they were both naked, having forgotten to put on even boxers. The only thing that was said before they both passed out was a whispered grumble from George about getting more ice cream the next day.

Love

Orion-

The next several days were quite interesting. He had to change his schedule slightly so that he had enough time to study, but also to get to the college campus so that he could take his mid-term proctored exam. He had hoped that it would end up being online, though it had been noted that it would possibly be on campus, but luck hadn’t been on his side in that matter. The next day he’d given Zachary a ride to the school to take his own exams. Most of the time when studying, Zach had helped him with his math, while Orion had returned the gesture by helping Zachary’s reading improve. Of course, the book they tended to read was the small one he’d given Zach about BDSM, but he could tell that his sweetheart was getting more and more comfortable with the idea of it in general.

Not that we’ve had much time to try anything again recently. He mumbled to himself in his thoughts as he leaned back, stretching out on their bed. He’ll be back soon from his parent’s house… Thank god his father is home from the hospital.

Zachary had been much more open with him on that matter recently, which made him much more relaxed about it. Of course, Orion still didn’t like the fact that Zachary was using his hard earned money on parents that had pushed him away for being truthful, but he wouldn’t intervene again. Zachary was an adult and his choices were his own.

“Orion!”

There’s my boy.

Sitting up, Orion opened his arms as Zachary darted through the door and after kicking his shoes off, jumped into his open arms. Squeezing him tightly, Orion chuckled, rubbing his back.

“Hey there, Sweetheart.” He whispered against Zach’s hair, sighing as he smelled his familiar scent.

“Missed you these past few days. Too much work and studying, too little Zachary.”

Of course they always slept in the same bed, Zachary cuddled in his arms, but he had missed the young man’s smiles and cheerful attitude all the time.

“I’ve missed you too, Master Orion.” Zachary said before looking up and pecking him lightly on the lips.

“I have paid my parent’s hospital bill and before I left, I told them not to ask for anything again. That I have my own life and if I wanted to spend my money on anyone that wasn’t me, it would be on my boyfriend.”

Orion’s eyebrows shot up in surprise.

“What did they say in response, Sweetheart?” He murmured as he began to run his fingers through Zachary’s hair while still holding him close with his free hand.

“Dad got really mad, saying that it was my responsibility while he was in the hospital, to pay for it. Mom just kind of frowned and blushed. I don’t know why she did either, or if she agreed with me or dad, but she had made her choice when her and dad had kicked me out.”

Orion nodded and leaned forward, pressing a soft kiss to Zach’s cheek before leaning back again.

“Yes, she did.”

When Zachary just snuggled in against him, Orion allowed his hands to roam along his boyfriend’s body. When his fingers settled over his ribs, he frowned and tilted his head slightly. “Zachary? Have you not eaten recently?”

He rarely allowed Zach to go without food, even if he wasn’t hungry. The past few days, however, college had taken most of his concentration and time, possibly allowing him to forget to ask or miss seeing him eat. When he felt Zachary tense slightly in his arms, he knew that he had guessed correctly.

“I’m sorry, Master. When I get stressed and eat, my stomach hurts really badly. Dealing with my parents, I didn’t want to get a stomach ache or be sick.”

That was a normal reaction when under a lot of stress, but Orion wished Zachary had said something, or he had at least noticed it. Worrying about it right then wouldn’t help either of them, though.

“It’s okay, Sweetheart. Please let me know the next time you decide to stop eating, though. If you are stressed and think you will be sick, I will not make you eat. Are okay to have a small meal right now?” He asked as he got himself up, easily lifting Zachary before setting him down on his feet.

“Yes Master,” Zachary said, smiling. He was quite energetic considering it was ten at night, but he did have almost ten years on Orion. The thought of their age gap surprisingly didn’t bother him much. When he looked down into Zachary’s bright eyes, Orion couldn’t help but smile as his heart sped up in his chest.

“Let’s go get something before bed then, since we both have off tonight.” He said as he settled a hand against Zachary’s back and gently guided him from the room. David was in the kitchen when they slipped inside… and his tongue was shoved down George’s throat.

“Uh, evening.” Orion said as he slid his hand into Zachary’s and tugged him past the other two as they disconnected, both panting as their faces got red. Not wanting to embarrass them any further, Orion opened the refrigerator and quickly found what he was looking for.

Taking out a tupperware container, he opened the lid and grinned, seeing that it was full of leftover vegetable soup from the day before. Surely it wouldn’t upset Zachary’s stomach, and there was easily enough for them to share. Without bothering to ask if he could have it, since most of the extra food in the fridge was up for grabs to whoever wanted it, he tossed it in the microwave, then turned to lean against the counter as he pulled Zachary against him. When he felt eyes on him, he looked over and noticed David sending him a deadly glare, Goerge nowhere in sight.

“Don’t give me that look, David. You know Xena would have skinned you if she saw you trying to suck George’s face off before the midnight rush.” He said, getting an eye roll from David as he turned and stirred a pot of something.

“I would have sucked something else if he wasn’t worried about people coming back here.”

Orion inwardly winced.

“We do have wait staff that come back here, too, David.” Orion added, making the guy suddenly blush bright red.

“Shit. Forgot.”

They were quiet for another moment before David gestured to Zachary. “Come taste this,” David said with a small smile. Stepping out of Orion’s arms, Zachary walked over, only to be pulled into the man’s arms and kissed!

“Hey!” Orion snarled loudly as he yanked Zachary away from David and up into his arms. Any other person would have run and hidden from his glare as he carried Zach out of the kitchen, but David just chuckled and stuck his tongue out.

“Um, Master?” Zachary tried, hoping to get his attention while he stormed through the dark room as music began to play louder. Orion waited until they were outside before he finally stopped moving and set Zachary down. Only, he picked him right back up since the guy only had socks on and there was snow on the ground.

“Good evening, Master!” Someone called, drawing Orion’s attention to the line of patrons George was working on getting inside. Looking over, he nodded, then turned and walked over to his car. He hadn’t originally intended to go outside, let alone drive somewhere, but at least he had his keys and wallet on him.

Once they were both settled in the car and buckled in, he decided where he would go. It took about twenty minutes to arrive, and when he stepped out of the car and walked around, opening the door for Zachary, he could see the guy staring up at the sign that read LEATHER in all capital letters. What it was, was pretty clear.

He thought Zachary might be hesitant to go in, but he already had his seatbelt off and was reaching up to him eagerly. Such a sweetheart. Orion thought to himself as he leaned over and easily lifted Zachary into his arms, shut the door, then locked the car before walking inside the BDSM club. Sure there were plenty of clubs near their own general one, but he didn’t want to deal with the loud music and obnoxious pricks. Of course, there were always going to be annoying people at clubs, but the owner of LEATHER didn’t normally let things get nearly as far as other places did. Also, the music was more classical, or at least quieter than every other place. It didn’t hurt that he’d done some work with the owner when they were both in between boyfriends, either.

“Oh my god, Orion! Long time no see, man!”

Smiling, Orion shifted Zachary to his left arm so that he could reach out and shake the man’s hand with his right one. “Hey Jameson.”

The man seemed distracted by Zachary, so Orion figured he’d best introduce him.

“This is my boyfriend, Zachary. Zachary, this is Jameson, the owner of this nice place.”

Zachary hesitantly reached out and shook the man’s hand before tucking himself back against Orion.

“Please tell me you two are here for a group play session? He’s absolutely adorable and I know Mendel and Liod would love to get to know him better!”

A strong wave of possessiveness ran through Orion as he shook his head. “No. Zachary is strictly mine.” He said, watching as his friend frowned, but then realization hit him.

“Oh shit, I didn’t even notice the collar! Sorry Orion, I’ll be sure to tell anyone who asks about him that he’s off limits.”

“Thank you,” Orion replied before starting to walk back toward a hallway off to the right by the bar. “I assume the back room is open, Jameson?”

“All yours, Orion! Enjoy yourselves!” The man called back.

As he carried Zachary into the back room and turned to shut and lock the door, Orion could feel his body tense against him slightly. Immediately he wrapped Zach in a tight hug, only setting him down once he was relaxed again.

“I’m sorry that I took you here so abruptly, Sweetheart. I…” He bit his lip, not liking the feelings that he’d had when David had kissed his boyfriend. He sighed when Zachary pressed his cold palms to either side of his face and leaned up, pressing a kiss to his lips.

“Would you like to play with me, Master?” He asked quietly, his eyes warm and welcoming. All of the jealousy Orion had been feeling drained away as he took his boyfriend into his arms and hugged him tightly.

“Yes please, Sweetheart.” He responded before releasing Zachary and walking over to a large dresser near a metal bar secured along the far wall. The bed took up most of the room, but there was still a good amount open if anyone wanted to use the floor or walls, where several different areas were set up with fasteners or other metal bars. There was also a closed door that lead to a large bathroom.

“Come here, Zachary,” Orion said as he got out two long strips of leather. The one other reason he also preferred the club they were in over others was because the back room, which you actually had to pay to use unless you personally knew the owner, was always stocked with brand new items. Nothing was ever reused.

When Zach appeared in front of him he gently guided him over to a small silver bar fastened to the wall. Reading his mind, Zachary reached up, gripping the bar with his hands, which made him stretch just a little to reach. Watching his sweetheart do as he’d wanted him to right away felt good, and seeing his T-shirt ride up slightly to reveal smooth skin that he loved running his hands over every night spurred Orion to move.

He gently began wrapping one of the long pieces of leather around the bar, but left it hanging once it was fastened adequately. He then turned his attention to his gorgeous boy. Without an ounce of hesitation he settled his hands on Zachary’s lower torso, right above where his pants rested on his perfect hips. His thumbs immediately began to massage small circles along the warm skin, adding pressure until he felt his boyfriend slowly moving with the action. It wasn’t exactly sexual, but it was sensual. The movement had his own hips moving slowly forward and back as he began to move his hands up along Zachary’s body.

He felt him begin to warm beneath his fingertips as they inched their way further and further up. When Orion had the shirt almost to his shoulder Zachary lifted his hands off of the bar, obediently waiting for it to be removed. “No.” Orion whispered to him a moment later, his lips pressed against Zachary’s right ear. Zach immediately returned his hands to the bar, though Orion could tell that he was confused.

So cute. He thought to himself as he moved the shirt up and over his boyfriend’s head, then carefully but skillfully tied the shirt at Zachary’s wrists. It took awhile to learn how to do it, but when he was finished he was satisfied that it would hold nicely and was glad to have mastered the skill.

Now that Zachary’s upper body was naked, Orion took a moment to stare before turning his attention to Zach’s hands. He took the leather already tied between them and used it to bind his wrists to the metal bar tightly. “Is it too tight, Sweetheart?” He asked as he wrapped his arms around Zachary’s front and rested his palms on his belly.

“No Master.” Zachary replied, just a hint breathless.

“Good boy, thank you for telling me. If I tie anything to tightly, you let me know.” Orion stated, getting a nod from Zachary. Frowning, he leaned over and pressed a kiss to his boyfriend’s cheek. “Words only, please. They are very important in this.”

Zachary gasped quietly and hurried to amend his mistake. “Yes, Master. I will tell you if anything is uncomfortable.”

“Thank you, Sweetheart.” Orion replied as he removed the other length of leather that he’d settled over his shoulder and began wrapping it around Zachary’s middle and upper torso before tying it. When he had finished, he hurried back over to the dresser and returned a moment later with two things.

“Are you comfortable enough here to allow me to blindfold you, Zachary?”

He seemed to be about to nod, but then quickly spoke. “Yes, Master.”

Orion smiled and carefully placed the black cloth he’d retrieved in front of Zachary’s eyes, then tied it securely behind his head. “Is that alright?” He asked, needing reassurance that his love was okay.

“Yes, Master.” Zachary replied, his tone of voice beginning to sound stronger. Less worried or hesitant.

Orion pressed his forehead between Zachary’s shoulderblades and nodded as he sighed out a relieved breath, making sure that his boyfriend could feel the gesture. Now that he had the young man secured with the leather ropes and blindfolded, Orion felt relief course through him. He knew that it wasn’t normal for most people to need so much control over another, but he also knew that there were those that craved much worse. He would never hit his sweetheart or intentionally cause him harm, like a good amount of dominants he knew. Not that he looked down on them for what they and their subs partook in, but he refused. He needed the control part of the lifestyle to feel secure, which sometimes made him feel shallow or depressed.

“Master?”

Zachary’s words cut through his thoughts, making Orion look up at him. “Yes, Sweetheart?” He replied, his voice slightly rough from the feelings he’d begun to let inside his head.

“I love you.”

The three simple words caught him off guard. Not that he didn’t expect to hear them, he had. It was more the fact that they were exactly what he had needed to hear right then. His whole body relaxed as he straightened and wrapped his arms tighter around his boyfriend.

“I love you, too, Zachary.” He paused for a moment as his lips pressed against the warm pulse in his sweetheart’s neck, then he whispered against the soft skin. “Would you like to try making love again?”

Most people would think that having sex, especially for the first time as a couple should be in a special place, but Orion’s special place was Zachary. As long as he was with him, he felt happy. Like he was needed by someone, and that they actually wanted him, even with his odd habits and quirks, in return.

“Yes please, Master Orion.” Zachary said with a cheerful tone in his slightly quivering voice.

Removing his arms from around him, Orion moved around to the small space between Zachary and the wall and, kneeling there, slowly began to undo the young man’s pants. They easily slid to the floor when Orion gave a slight tug. I need to remember to get him a big dinner after this. He reminded himself before turning his attention to Zachary’s boxers. Instead of removing them right away, he carefully leaned forward and began to nuzzle above the waistband. He felt the skin beneath his nose tighten and shiver several times, making him smile at how he affected his love.

“U-um…”

Orion pressed a soft kiss to the spot just beneath Zachary’s naval before glancing up with a content smile, loving the sight he got. “Yes, Sweetheart?”

When Zachary just stuttered again, Orion gently grasped his legs in his hands and began rubbing them soothingly. He would wait, because nothing was more important to him than his love’s words.

“C-can I um. Can I wear your shirt…?”

It was an odd request for Zachary, but just hearing that he wanted something of his made Orion hurry to comply with the request. He stood quickly and began unbuttoning the soft plaid shirt that he’d shrugged on earlier in the day. He was just undoing the final button when he heard Zachary speak again.

“I-I’m sorry. I forgot I can’t put it on when I’m tied up. I don’t want to have to make you retie everything.” He hurried to say, but Orion just shook his head as he set the shirt over his shoulder and began undoing the knots.

“Sweetheart, you made me so happy by asking for my shirt. Please, accept it and take comfort in wearing it.” He said as he freed Zachary from the metal bar, then unfastened his hands and removed the shirt he’d used to tie them. He left the blindfold on though, not feeling a need to remove it as he helped Zachary into the shirt, then buttoned it meticulously.

“How does that feel?” He asked with an excited smile as he began retying Zachary’s wrists with his shirt.

“Perfect, Master.” Zachary replied, a smile on his lips as Orion finished tying him to the bar.

“I’m glad. You look adorable in it, too.” Orion added, grinning as he noticed the blush that quickly covered the young man’s cheeks. Turning his attention to the other item he’d brought over, Orion knelt down and picked up the small tube of lube and popped the lid. Knowing that Zachary had trouble and needed a lot of it, he didn’t hesitate to squeeze a large amount into his palm before dropping the tube back to the carpet.

“This isn’t the kind of lube I used last time that’s for sensitivity, but I’ll do my best to make sure that you’re comfortable and I use as much as needed.” He said as he carefully began to stretch his boyfriend. Orion remained kneeling on the carpet as he carefully inserted first one finger, then two, then three. Each time he heard Zachary gasp or saw him wince, he’d pause what he was doing until his love told him to continue.

When he finally stood, the tube of lube was back in his hand, along with a condom he’d removed from his back pocket before removing his pants and boxers. He easily unwrapped the smaller item, the obvious sound drawing Zachary’s attention.

“I don’t want you to use a condom. You’re clean…” He said, frowning.

“I know, Sweetheart, but I bought this specifically for when you wanted to try again. It’s made specially to be slick and together with the lubricant, should help with the pain.”

Orion could tell that Zachary still wasn’t very happy about it, but after he slid the condom on himself, he quickly wrapped the young man in a strong hug and kissed his neck. “I love you, Zachary. I know you want me bare, and believe me, Sweetheart, I crave that too, but I can’t stand hurting the one I love when it can be prevented. I promise that if this works, we try without again as soon as you’re ready, alright?”

“Okay…” Zachary said, his voice not quite as excited as it had been before.

Orion pursed his lips, contemplating removing the condom. It didn’t take him long to decide against it. Instead, he added a healthy portion of lubricant to the outside of it before carefully lining himself up.

“I promise that I’ll make it feel amazing for you, Zachary. Trust me, please?”

He hadn’t really meant to ask it as a question, but the tone of his voice, and the unsure feeling in his chest, made it come out that way. He wasn’t expecting a response as he wrapped one of his arms around Zachary’s neck while the other moved around his waist and gently grasped his stiff length.

“I will always trust you, Orion. Even when I act like a fool or make a mistake. Even when you are angry with me. You make me feel wanted and safe, even when restrained and blind.”

Blinking back tears, Orion nuzzled into Zachary’s warm neck and pressed a soft kiss there as he gave his hips a slight thrust forward.

“You’re my anchor, Sweetheart.” He whispered as he ever-so-slowly nudged his hips forward a little more. “When I saw you standing outside of the club, my heart was already trying to reach out to you, even though my brain wasn’t comprehending yet. I can’t believe I believed the lies I was told about you begging for even a second, Zachary.”

Zachary pressed his hips back abruptly, making Orion moan against his skin.

“I was afraid that you would yell at me again… in the alley,” Zachary said, gasping and breaking his sentence into two when Orion thrust forward again.

Orion tightened his arms around Zachary’s slightly shivering body as he growled, feeling a sudden surge of possessiveness flow through him.

“If I could go back and tell the fool that I was that night how close he came to losing something so incredible, I would. Then beat him up, for good measure.”

Zachary chuckled, the action causing him to tighten around Orion to insight another moan and accidental hard thrust. Zach hissed out a breath and Orion forced himself to remain still, though it took a good deal of effort. When Zachary let his breath out a few moments later on a moan, Orion did the same. Looking down, he grinned as he noticed that he was more than halfway inside.

“Almost there, Sweetheart,” he said excitedly as he moved his hands back between them after squeezing most of the bottle of lubricant into his free hand. Once he could get nothing else out of the small tube, he tossed it behind him and eagerly rubbed it between his hands before applying it to his length that still waited to be pushed inside.

After returning his arms to where they had been settled around Zachary, Orion leaned forward against him and slowly began to push. “Sweetheart… tilt your head back toward the sound of my voice, please,” Orion said with a slight grunt as he felt himself sliding inside more and more. He couldn’t believe how tight Zachary was, and honestly, he was glad that the poor guy hadn’t gotten a dominant like Domino. He would have been torn apart.

Just thinking about that man touching his sweet Zachary made Orion tense. He relaxed quickly, however, when he saw Zachary tilt his head back and to the side, allowing Orion to connect their lips together. The kiss turned hungry fast, and so did his thrusting as he finally felt himself sink completely inside. Of course, he didn’t pull out and then push in more than an inch or so each time, but both of them were clearly eager to finally have the chance to make love, as Zachary was meeting his small forward motions with backward ones of his own.

“More,” Zachary panted after a minute of kissing and nipping at each others’ lips. Orion obliged, pulling out a bit more than he had been before thrusting forward again. Zachary groaned, but after taking a moment to recover, he repeated his request for more, and Orion gladly did as told.

They were both getting to the end when Zachary’s whimper caught Orion’s attention. Neither of them stopped moving, but he did nip at Zachary’s neck and growl out in a husky voice. “Tell me what you want, Zachary.”

Orion had a feeling that Zachary was embarrassed to ask and would have likely taken a few moments to get the words out, but considering they were both about to climax, he hurried to speak.

“Please, I want to see… you. Please, Master.” He gasped and groaned as Orion massaged his length with his right hand.

The request wasn’t something Orion normally liked to do, having his submissives able to see him during sex if he could blindfold them, but he would do anything for Zachary. Reaching up with his left hand, his fingers shaky, he removed the blindfold. Everything in him took in the sight of his sweet Zachary’s dark, love-filled eyes staring up at him. So much affection was clear as day in them. So much love… for him. Growling again, Orion turned Zachary’s head and smashed their lips together as he felt himself release inside of his love. Zachary followed soon after, groaning into their kiss as they rocked together, enjoying the feelings that coursed through them.

When Orion finally untied Zachary, the younger man fell into his arms, exhausted. Lifting him easily, Orion set him down on the bed for a moment and used the phone by the nightstand to dial the kitchen. He knew the chef, and after ordering food for them, he hung up and carefully scooped his lover into his arms with a content smile.

“Let’s go wash up, then I’m going to stuff you with food until you fall asleep in my arms.” Orion said, already noticing that Zachary was beginning to drift off a little. Instead of trying to awaken him fully, he carried him into the bathroom and set him down in his lap after turning on the warm shower and removing his condom, throwing it in the small trashcan. He then grabbed a washcloth and lathered it with soap before he began to clean his beautiful sweetheart up.

Try

David-

Seeing George run back to their room several times throughout the day was odd. He’d said to stay out of it, that he was cleaning and rearranging stuff and didn’t need him getting in the way. David didn’t mind staying out of the room until later, but it definitely bugged him that he was told to. Not that he didn’t love being told what to do, he did, but it seemed like George was trying to keep a secret.

Maybe he’s switching to normal smelling soaps or something?

Shaking his head, David finally stepped away from the stove and sighed. Removing his apron, he walked over and hung it up before turning to Xena, who was finishing up with the few remaining dishes.

“Oh, go on. I know you’re dying to know what that baboon is hiding from you.” She said with a glance over her shoulder and an added roll of her eyes.

David smirked and ran for the door, but paused and looked back as he opened it. “He’s an ape. So he’d probably be more of a gorilla.”

Xena narrowed her eyes and sprayed him with the small hose attached to the faucet. David yelped and hurried out of the double doors. He decided to just run all the way to their room, suddenly feeling overly-excited and hyper. When he got there and turned the handle, however, the door didn’t budge.

“Huh?”

Glancing behind him, David didn’t notice anyone laughing at some weird joke he was falling for… He returned his attention to the door and hesitantly lifted a hand, tapping his knuckles on the wood softly. When he didn’t hear anything inside and George didn’t open the door, he fidgeted and silently wished that he had accepted the key Xena had offered him. Sure he was living there with George, but he’d never locked the door before. And if anyone tried to break in, George would probably just laugh at them before causing bodily harm.

“Um… George?”

David had whispered the words at first, but then repeated them when there was still no response, raising his voice a little. He thought that he’d have to just give up and go back to the kitchen until George came and got him, but then the door creaked open a tiny smidge. Not wanting to let it slip shut and possibly get locked out again, he hurried to slip inside.

To his surprise, the entire room was dark besides the dim light coming from the bathroom. George was also nowhere to be seen, making David awkwardly walk toward the open bathroom door.

“George?” He questioned, his voice a bit hesitant and confused. When he stepped into the bathroom his mouth suddenly went dry. George was sitting on the closed toilet lid, his head in his hands as his elbows rested on his knees. All he was wearing was the pair of boxers with kittens fighting each other on them that he had gotten him a few days ago. If David hadn’t noticed the slight grin touching the edge of his lips, he might have been worried.

“Come in and kneel down in front of me. Head down and eyes on the floor.”

George’s voice was surprisingly clear as he gave the order. The deep timbre made David shiver and obey immediately. His body reacted without even needing his mind to think through the movements.

“Good boy,” George said once David had settled. The praise made his body hum with an eagerness to please that he’d been holding back since George had chased away Domino. When he felt a gentle but calloused hand press against his cheek, he hurried to nuzzle against it while keeping his eyes pinned to the floor.

When a blindfold suddenly took away his vision, his heartrate jumped. At the same time, a hopeful smile slid onto his lips. It took George a couple moments to continue, though David figured that he was focusing as much as he could on not freaking out from what he’d already done.

“Head up.”

The order got an immediate response… from two different heads. David blushed, but didn’t try to hide the fact that he likely had an obvious tent in his pants now. Familiar, inexperienced lips settled over his. It was clear that George was trying to be dominant in the kiss and even though he wasn’t doing the best job, David still loved it and let him bite and stick his tongue into his mouth without any hesitation.

When the kiss ended David could hear George stand up. Judging from the closeness and feel of the man’s boxers brushing against his cheeks, David knew that he was literally kneeling between his legs.

“Stand up.”

David carefully leaned back, then got up. He wasn’t sure how he judged the distance so perfectly, but on his way up he pressed a brief kiss to George’s stiff length. He heard an abrupt hiss from the man and inwardly grinned because of it.

“Remove your clothing.”

The order was one he’d dreamed of, literally… but that made him fidget as he reached for the hem of his shirt.

“Am I dreaming, by chance, Master George?” He asked, tone only slightly joking.

When his shirt was suddenly yanked off, David figured that that was answer enough. He hurried to undo his pants and then let them drop, his boxers following soon after. Once he was naked, he heard George kneel in front of him and then felt him removing his shoes, then tossing his clothing aside before standing back up.

“Turn around.”

David did as told. After only a moment of waiting he felt something tight fasten around his wrists. From what he could hear and feel, he had to guess that it was a zip tie.

How cute.

Most people used regular cloth ties or rope, but his George had actually gotten a zip tie. He made sure that it was nice and tight, too, which made David tilt his head back and groan quietly. When was turned back around and felt a sudden hard bite to his left nipple, he flinched, surprised. He knew that George would withdraw immediately, having likely been spooked, so he quickly stuttered out an excuse.

“I’m very sensitive there. I-it felt good, Master. Just surprised me.”

There was the quiet sound of a breath being exhaled before George’s teeth returned to his likely reddened nipple and began to nip again. He was more careful, but as David began to moan from the sensation, George bit harder and harder. After a minute or so David found himself being pushed up against the wall, a strong hand squeezing him between his legs as George’s mouth claimed his once more.

The kiss broke quickly with a grunt from George before David was suddenly lifted and tossed over the man’s shoulder. Another moment later and he was dropped onto the bed. With his hands behind his back, he had to worm his way onto it more while at the same time, he realized from the dipping on either side of him, that George was following him onto it.

He felt his heart slamming against his ribs as he finally dropped his head to the blankets, giving up on finding the pillows. There was something he was far more eager to get that was currently rubbing up against his abdomen in short, hesitant thrusts. “Mm clean, Master.” He groaned as he tilted his head back and arched his body up to press against George’s as he felt it lower onto him.

George’s weight was likely a little much for most people, but David loved the feeling of being pressed into the bed and the slight ache of pain that came with it. He could tell that George was beginning to struggle with his new dominant front, so he hurried to meet his thrusts with his own eager ones. Thankfully, that spurred George on… quite a bit.

David gasped as he felt himself being entered abruptly. He had to force himself to bite back a pained cry and instead gasped once more before it turned into a panting moan. One strong hand fisted in his hair, pulling hard enough to make him squirm as his roots began to burn from pain. His other hand was firmly grasping David’s hip, no doubt bruising the skin there as his nails started to dig in.

With each thrust David felt the zip tie dig into his wrists, sending thrills of pleasure up his arms to meld with every other deliciously-painful feeling as they both quickly built themselves up, then loosed loud moans at the same time with their climaxes.

The sound of their heavy breathing took over as they both slowly began to relax. David had a huge grin on his face as he felt George carefully roll him onto his side and cut the zip tie with a pair of scissors. With his hands free, he sat up and hurried to remove the blindfold. Only, when the fabric fell away David noticed George ducking into the bathroom like his backside was on fire.

Frowning slightly, he got himself up, wincing at the strong ache he got from the action. Ignoring the pain, he half walked, half limped into the bathroom… only to see that George was still wearing his boxers.

Oh my god, I hadn’t even noticed!

His face was bright red and his chest still rose and fell quicker than normal as he tried to regain himself while he fiddled with the shower until it finally turned on and was the temperature he wanted. Before he could lift a leg to step in, however, David hopped up onto his back and wrapped his arms around his neck, and legs around his waist.

“I love you, my Master. My George. My ape.”

The deep chuckle he got after a moment of awkward silence told him that everything was still okay. And just in case, he kept his hold on George as the man easily stepped into the shower and pulled the curtain shut as he grumbled about clingy monkeys.

You and Me

Orion-

“Welcome back,” Xena said as she saw Orion carrying Zachary through one of the side entrances behind the kitchen. He rarely used it, but there were people hanging out near the entrance to the alley that he didn’t want to bother with.

Xena watched him as he strode inside, a stupid grin plastered on his face. He was almost glowing with… “You just did your boyfriend, didn’t you?” She asked, making his grin shrink a little, if only for Zachary’s sake.

The signal was sent loud and clear, however, making Xena shake her head as she finished scrubbing a dish and set it aside to dry. “Normally I’d make fun of you for being such a weird dork with your leather and control issues, but…” Her eyes rose to his and then lowered to Zachary’s sleeping face for a brief moment before returning to Orion’s. “He really likes you, so I’m glad that you two finally sealed the deal.”

Of course, the collar kind of sealed it in concern to the BDSM community, but Orion knew what she meant. He squeezed Zachary a little more in his arms and nuzzled his nose into his soft hair. “I’m glad, too. We’ve been going out for a bit, but I didn’t want to push him into it. He’s had it rough, and I almost lost him because of my stupidity. I’m so glad that I snapped out of it fast. He’s mine and he’ll never be back on the streets.”

Xena laughed quietly and walked over, tugging at the collar around Zach’s neck lightly. “He deserves you, too, you know? I’ve seen him outside here a few times talking to George. I knew he was homeless after the first few times seeing him, but he never stuck around for long when the line to get in grew.”

She smiled up at him, but Orion was having trouble focusing since her fingers were still on Zachary’s collar. On his adorable submissive’s collar.

“Oh don’t give me that look. No need to be jealous or guarded. He’s all yours, Master . Besides, you need him as much as he needs you, so get your butt to bed cause you both still have to work tomorrow.”

Orion shook his head and hurried out of the kitchen, then back to their room. Once he got Zachary tucked into bed, he spent the next several hours studying. Zach had already told him that he’d gotten his work done earlier in the week, so Orion wanted to be sure that he was caught up. The semester wasn’t going to be over for awhile, but he wanted to be sure that they were both near the same point so that they could help each other when needed.

It wasn’t until two or three hours after he’d put Zachary to bed that he felt the bed shift a little and looked up. His love was leaning back against the pillows they had propped up near the headboard, a sleepy yet-content smile on his face. His hair was mussed, just begging for Orion to run his fingers through it.

Needs a haircut… another day. He thought as he set aside the laptop and crawled on his hands and knees until he was sitting flush against Zach, one arm reaching around to settle on his shoulders as his fingers teased the soft strands of hair that fell near Zach’s right ear. When Zachary leaned against him, Orion hurried to move his head until it rested atop his, then sighed, content.

“Were you catching up on your homework?” Zach asked after a few minutes of silence between them.

Orion nodded, loving the feel of Zach’s soft hair as it brushed against his cheek.

“Hey Orion?” Zachary asked quietly, making Orion blink open his tired eyes and lean back just enough so that he could see his face.

“Yeah, Sweetheart?”

“We um, haven’t read from your book in awhile.” He said.

Orion blinked, realizing that Zach was right. There were still some chapters left and, in most of the situations he found himself in with subs, those were the important chapters. But…

“I don’t think we need to read anymore of that.”

Grinning, he reached over and tugged Zachary into his lap and hugged him tight, Zach’s back against his chest. “I think our relationship is just right as it is.”

Zachary chuckled and leaned his head back, then tilted it so that he could look up at Orion and grin. “Is that so?” He asked, a hint of mischief in his beautiful eyes.

Orion raised a brow, smiling even though he was a bit confused by Zachary’s behavior.

“Yes?” He asked, a little nervous all of a sudden.

When Zachary’s grin widened, Orion felt his insides begin to melt while at the same time twist into an awkward knot.

“Master, how much control do you want?” He asked, taking Orion by surprise again.

It took him a minute to come up with an answer. “What do you mean? In terms of our relationship?”

Zach seemed to realize that he was having trouble figuring things out, and probably that he was a little confused, because he carefully turned around and straddled Orion’s lap. Looking up, Zachary smiled a little bigger, then spoke. “How much control did you use earlier?”

Orion pursed his lips, thinking back to the only situation earlier could be.

“Not much.” He answered.

Zachary leaned forward, pressing himself closer and making Orion tighten his arms around him instinctively. “How much do you want in that type of situation?” He asked quietly as he turned his head to rest the side of his face against Orion’s chest.

The question had Orion’s heart stumbling over itself. He was afraid that if he answered truthfully, he might scare Zachary away. The thought of his Sweetheart no longer wanting him hurt a lot more than he’d ever want to admit, but he also knew that trust was a big part of what they had.

“A lot.”

Zachary nodded, but didn’t run. Orion couldn’t help sighing in relief.

“How much is a lot?” Zach asked.

The question made Orion smile. If Zachary hadn’t run away already, hopefully he wouldn’t with any other answer he gave.

“I want you tied up. No shirt or pants. Just leather and gorgeous skin.” He purred as he pressed soft kisses to Zach’s face. His Sweetheart chuckled, making his own smile stretch a little wider.

“And a blindfold, yes?” Zach added, making Orion laugh quietly.

“Yes, Sweetheart. Definitely a blindfold, but I think I might get used to seeing your beautiful eyes more and more during that.”

Zachary snuggled in closer and Orion carefully shifted them so that they were lying down, the blanket tucked up near their chins.

“Okay. I’m willing to work to get to that point, if you’re willing to work with me.” Zach whispered, ending his words with a yawn.

Orion had to close his eyes to keep them from watering. When he felt a gentle kiss press to each, he opened them and sniffed quietly.

“I love you, Orion. I want to be able to give you what you want. To give you the control. I’ll just need help getting to that point…”

When Zach’s words drew into silence Orion hurried to speak. “I-I love you, too, Sweetheart. So much. And I can’t think of anything I want more than to be with you and help you each step you take as my beautiful submissive.”

Orion expected some type of reply, but when soft, adorable snores met his ears in the dim room, he grinned. We’re still in our clothes, but at least I took his shoes off before he got in bed and I slid my own off. Since the laptop he’d been using already looked like it was in sleep mode, he just gave a quiet yawn, then settled in with Zachary in his arms and closed his eyes.

Epilogue

(I know I said 2 chapters but the last one just felt like an ending, so I gave George and David the Epi.)

George

I swear if you don’t back the fuck up, I won’t be responsible for what my fist does to your face. George thought as a man, surprisingly taller than him, glared right in his face. He’d had to deny him entry because he was being too aggressive while waiting in line. Clearly he was a dom, but that didn’t mean a damn thing to George. If he messed with other patrons before even getting inside, then the welcome mat will be used to slap some sense into him. They didn’t technically have a welcome mat, though, so George just figured his fist would do.

“Listen buddy, your job is to check I.D.’s and look fat. Move the hell away from the door!” He shouted, making George raise one brow slightly. He was anything but fat, though he was still half deaf from David’s screaming earlier and might have heard the guy wrong. David hadn’t been that vocal the first time they’d done it, but boy was he more than happy to yell the second time. Just the thought of it brought a blush to his cheeks, making him fidget a little.

“Dude… Are you blushing?” The guy asked, then smirked. “So you’re interested in a dom, even though you look like a huge monkey? I’m surprised, but I suppose I could consider it…”

George had to blink a few times to clear his thoughts and replay what the man had just said. During that time, a fist suddenly swung out of nowhere and slammed into the guy’s face, knocking him on his ass.

Looking down, George couldn’t help but grin as David straightened back up front the jump he’d clearly had to make in order to land a good hit. His eyes were narrowed on the man stumbling back to his feet and his lips were pursed angrily.

“That’s my ape, bud. Back the hell off.” David growled as he crossed his arms over his chest.

When the guy got back up, his eyes grew wide as realization seemed to set in.

“Aren’t you Domino’s whore? Already moved on after he got arrested, eh?”

David flinched, looking up at George before returning his attention to the man. “I didn’t know he got arrested. I left him before that happened.”

The guy seemed surprised and even chuckled a bit as he mirrored David’s pose. “He doesn’t seem to think that you’ve broken up. I heard he’s still telling everyone to stay away from you cause your ass belongs to him when he gets out.”

When David didn’t respond, George grunted and wrapped his arms around him, easily tugging him back against his chest. He then dropped his chin to settle on top of David’s soft hair and grinned.

“Sorry, this ass is taken. Along with his butt.”

David tilted his head and scowled up at him, but George just leaned over and kissed him awkwardly. He knew he still kinda sucked at it, but he was trying to prove a point, not win a kissing award!

The man glowered, but after another minute of silence, turned and walked away. Immediately George felt David sag in his arms, a sigh leaving his lips. In all honesty, he had wondered where Domino had gone, himself. He was used to the asshole showing up once in awhile to get David and he didn’t seem like one to just let their previous fight go.

Hadn’t been much of a fight, but still.

“George?”

Looking back down, George raised a brow in question.

“Um… After you’re done with work, do you… Would you, want to cook something with me?”

Cooking is boring as hell.

Pushing back that thought, George forced a smile and patted David’s head.

“Yes.” He said.

He knew he was terrible at lying and David always knew when he was, but they’d come to an understanding about that. If he agreed to try something, even though he wasn’t interested, David would just accept it. Having become a dominant all of a sudden and sleeping with a guy, and at the same time giving up his virginity to him, were all things he would have said no to if he was given an honest chance. Too bad David never let him think too hard about things.

The guy was always happy though, even when they had to go to the hospital a week ago when he’d burned his hand on the stove. His leg had healed, too, though it didn’t exactly look great. There was a lot of scarring and raised skin in some places. George never hid that he thought it looked bad with fake compliments about it, because he refused to lie when it came to important things. The scars, however, didn’t bother him in the least when it came to giving David attention. The guy had even been glad that he’d never said that they were beautiful or any crap like that.

George grinned to himself as David ran back inside to finish in the kitchen. David had thanked him for being honest when he’d asked him about his leg, and surprisingly after that, he stopped wearing long pants or bandages. He even put on shorts a few times when he wasn’t working and walked around the club. Sure people stared at him on occasion, but only once had someone dared to comment… and George had seen to it that he learned a very valuable lesson.

Come early morning, George finally managed to drag the last of the patrons out and lock up. Xena was already asleep, along with any normal sane person. Time for this insane person to go cook. Joy. He thought as he trudged, exhausted, toward the kitchen. Right before he stepped inside he gave his head a good shake and forced a smile onto his tired face.

David stood by the prep counter as he walked in, several ingredients in front of him. All of them, thankfully, looked premeasured. Thank you, god. George thought as he walked over and gently wrapped David in his arms for a quick hug before staring down at the intimidating ingredients. Evil flour. Evil eggs. Evil sugar. Evil… I don’t know what that is. But it’s evil, too. The only thing George ever wanted to do was take cake from the fridge. He had tried to bake it once or twice, sure, but it ended in him being banned from using the kitchen.

It wasn’t his fault that the batter exploded on his first try and then caught fire during the second. He had no idea how the fire had even started, either. It’s not like he was intentionally making a combustible cake and it hadn’t even been put in the oven yet!

“I already measured everything, here.” David said, offering him a wiry thing. “I’m going to slowly add the dry ingredients into the big bowl with all the flour. Just whisk them together until we get through them all, okay?”

Nodding, George took the weird utensil and started stabbing the bowl as David tried to pour some sugar into it. He stopped after a moment and took the whisk from George’s hand, visibly trying not to laugh.

“Okay, you’ve never used one of these before. They are not for injuring bowls. You move it like this,” he said as he began to whisk the ingredients the correct way.

My way was doing the same thing! Just less aggressively…

Grumbling, he did it the way David showed him as more and more ingredients made it into the bowl. Once all of the dry ones were mixed thoroughly, David added in the wet ones. When he’d finished mixing everything, George shook the whisk over the bowl for a moment, then hurried to begin licking the sugary concoction from the wires.

“Here, Master.”

Turning, he reached out with his free hand and took the plate offered to him by a grinning David. There was a large piece of his favorite, triple chocolate mousse cake, on it.

Wait. Didn’t we just make this?

Setting the whisk in the sink, he grabbed the fork sitting on the plate and took a big mouthful of the cake. It was literally the best thing in the world. Nothing could compare to David’s chocolate mousse cake. Nothing.

Feeling an arm wrap around his side, George took another bite of the cake, then set it down on the counter before wrapping David in a hug.

“I made an extra one earlier because I knew you probably wouldn’t want to wait for it to bake since it’s so late.

Hah. And Domino said he wasn’t smart!

Chuckling to himself, George gave David an extra squeeze, then reached over and stuck another piece of cake with his fork.

“Open.” He said as he brought the fork over to settle against David’s lips.

David did as told right away, taking the bite of cake with a pleased moan. He was just beginning to chew it when George leaned over and kissed him. Without needing any hints, David opened his mouth and eagerly allowed George’s tongue to steal a taste of dessert. When they finally pulled back, David was grinning like the fool that he was, and George was licking his lips.

“I love you, Master.”

The words had clearly slipped out, judging from the look on David’s worried face. George felt his normal feeling of unease surge but hurried to push it down. Instead of walking away like he did every other time, he clenched his jaw and reached forward, pushing David up against his chest with a hand against the back of his head. His narrowed eyes remained focused on the fridge over David’s shoulder.

“Yeah. I… love you, too. You weird monkey.”

-End

(Thank you guys for following along with this story!)

(I’ll be putting my Ko-fi link at the bottom of the final chapters of my books from here on. It’s totally optional, of course :) See you guys on the next story!)

Tips always appreciated :) https://ko-fi.com/theorykierei

Book 2

Book 2 is complete, titled ReckLess. It DOES have Domino as a main, but believe me, I promise it will be worth your time ;) my favorite character plays opposite him and you’ll love him. 

Of course, the rest of the gang will also be around.