Title: Here With Me 10/?
Author: Anorien and Sairalinde
Type: RPS
Pairing: Craig/David
Rating: Explicit Sex
Beta: Ourselves
Warning: Abuse described in later chapters not between the main pairing.
Disclaimer: This never happened. This was written in fun that's all.
Feedback: Yes please send to sairalinde @ hornofgondor.com
or thechroniclesofosgiliath @ yahoo.com
Archiving: OEAM, Mirrormere, The Chronicles of Osgiliath, Saira's Library, CxD Archive, other's ask.
Summary: A.U. Two University Professors try to overcome their pasts and find love and healing.

// Indicates thoughts.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

David glanced over at Craig wondering if it had been a good idea to ask him to come along. Father had said 'alone' but he had called and told his mother that he would have a guest. She seemed to understand, asked a million questions and David told her to just wait until she met Craig. Father hadn't even looked at him throughout the staff meeting that morning, hadn't even argued with any of his lesson plans which was a change. He felt more put off by that, than if he had said something. At least mother picked Friday night...father wouldn't have time to really say anything with the ladies from mother's book club coming over so soon after dinner. David realized his thumb was nervously tapping against the steering wheel and looked over at Craig, "Sorry...I'm nervous."

"It's ok, love," Craig said, reaching over to place his hand over David's. He'd noticed how nervous his lover had been all day and had tried to stay as upbeat and positive as he could. They'd sat in the staff meeting, holding hands, as Craig had waited for the Chancellor to say something rude or degrading, but he'd acted as if David and Craig didn't exist. "Just try and relax. I'm right beside you - and I will be all night." Sliding closer, Craig let his hand run the length of David's arm. "Tell me about your mother?" he asked, trying to get David to focus on something positive.

David smiled feeling more loved than he had ever felt in his life. Just knowing Craig was by his side was more than he could have ever hoped for. "My mother? She's...an unusual woman, she *tries* to see the bright side of everything. She's the only reason I ever come home anymore...and most times she can keep father from getting too bad. She'll just say his name and he'll stop mid sentence, kinda funny. Doesn't always work, but she knows I'm grateful for it...and my Aunt is a lot like her...she'll do or say something to take the focus off me. She's father's other favorite target but she's tougher than I am." David grinned. "I wish she was here tonight but she couldn't come."

Craig leaned over and pressed his lips to David's cheek. "I know I'll like your mother, then," he said softly. "Sounds like the two of you are close. I wish I could do *something* to make things better for you. I hate to see you nervous like this. I know your mother will help, but…….I just hope I can keep my mouth shut and not make things worse." Resting his hand on David's thigh, he squeezed gently. "Thanks for inviting me."

"You won't make things worse," David said dropping his hand to lay on top of Craig's. "And….I'm glad you will be there with me, you have no idea how much strength just having you near gives me. And as far as my mother goes...she will adore you. I just know it," he said softly trying to focus on the good aspects of the evening. Pulling into the long driveway they waited on the gates to open, "Well...here goes," he said pulling through the gates and driving up the long tree lined drive.

"You're so much stronger than you know, even without me," Craig said softly. As David put the car in park, Craig turned around and wrapped both arms around him, holding him tightly. He leaned back and waited until his lover's blue eyes met his own and smiled. "I love you," he whispered. "And in a few hours, we'll be back home, just the two of us, with this whole night behind us. And the whole weekend ahead of us."

David smiled as Craig wrapped his arms around him and wrapped his arms around his lover, "I love you too...and an entire weekend just the two of us sounds wonderful. Let's get this over with shall we?" he asked reluctantly pulling away. Opening the door he stepped out and walked around to Craig's side taking his hand. He took a deep breath and they made their way up the steps to the front door. Before their feet landed on the top step the door opened and a tiny woman with hair the same color as David's came practically flying out the door to wrap her arms around her son. David laughed still holding onto Craig's hand as his mother kissed his cheek and hugged him. "Hello, mother," he said smiling brightly.

"I'm so glad you decided to come...and that you brought your...friend?" she said ending in a question.

"This is my boyfriend, Dr. Craig Parker...this is my mother Susan Wenham," David said introducing Craig to his mother.

Craig held on to David's hand tightly. // Boyfriend! God, I love to hear him say that// As his lover's mother smiled warmly, Craig relaxed a bit, and returned her smile. Taking her hand, he pressed his lips to the back of it, tilting his head forward. "Mrs. Wenham," he said softly, "it's an honor to meet you. Thank you for allowing me to be here tonight."

Susan smiled broadly at the handsome young man. "You're always welcome here in my home, Craig. I can see that you're good for my David," she said kindly.

"Oh," Craig said, as she led him through the house, his hand never releasing David's, "David is the one who's good for me. He's the most amazing man I've ever met, and I feel like the luckiest man on earth to just be around him." Unable to keep his eyes from his lover for very long, Craig looked over at him and sighed happily.

"Oh...where are my manners? Standing on the porch like this...come on in," Susan said stepping around and taking Craig's free arm. "So David said you teach pre-med...that's wonderful," she said smiling. She saw David look a little worried as they approached the door. She hoped John would keep his mouth shut for one blessed night! She'd warned him all afternoon *not* to start anything. When he got angry that Craig was accompanying David she had lost her temper telling him that she wanted to meet the man that seemed to be making her son so happy. That he should be glad that *their* son was happy but of course he just stormed off. She took a deep breath and opened the door for them.

"Yes, I teach anatomy and physiology. I'll always be thankful for this job, because it brought me here - to meet your son." He looked down, his face flushing. "I'm sorry. I can't seem to stop talking about him. He is just so…….wait. There I go again." He glanced up at David and shook his head. "Sorry, love," he said, squeezing his lover's hand, trying to distract him from his nervousness and hoping he hadn't already made a fool of himself with David's mother.

David blushed as Craig spoke but couldn't stop smiling. "It's...it's ok," he murmured.

Susan laughed at the blush she saw gracing both young men's faces, "Well I think you two are good for each other. I've never seen him smile so much. I hope you enjoy dinner...afraid we won't have terribly long to dawdle," she grinned at the look on David's face. One of pure thanks. "My book club meets here tonight...so we will just have a simple get to know you dinner," she said realizing her voice had turned hopeful on the last few words. She prayed John would not start anything. She looked over at David, "And David? Try not to...agitate him," she said carefully.

"Me?" David asked surprised.

"Just....try and ignore him...for me?" Susan asked hoping that David would be able to ignore John's jibes she knew would be coming. She hoped that *she* would be able to do the same.

Craig watched the exchange between David and his mother, his stomach tying up in knots. It was obvious the situation with David's father was nothing new to both of them. He couldn't imagine his lover deliberately provoking the Chancellor, but he could easily picture the verbal and mental abuse David had probably had to withstand by just *existing*. As Ms. Wenham led the way to the dining room, Craig hung back and smiled softly at his lover. Giving him an encouraging wink, he rubbed his thumb over the smooth skin on the back of David's hand. "Love you," he mouthed.

David smiled. "Love you too," he mouthed back. <i >Ready to face the fire, // he thought as they stepped into the dining room. His father hadn't come in yet and David was grateful as they took their seats. When John walked in, David looked down at his plate as his father's eyes moved over him. Susan noticed and immediately began to speak trying to distract John with a question about the phone call he'd just taken. David looked over at Craig and took a deep breath. It already felt as if the walls were closing in around him and he needed to see Craig beside him and know that he wasn't alone. Not this time.

The instant David's father walked into the room, the tension level rose several degrees, as Craig felt David take a deep breath and gird himself for the next hour. // I knew it was bad, but, not *this* bad.// Unable to bear looking down, Craig's gaze met the Chancellor's across the table. He could tell David's father was used to having the upper hand, and Craig *knew* he should at least try to look intimidated, but he couldn't bear to look away. He was proud to be here with David, holding his hand, and they had nothing to be ashamed of. Not letting go of his lover's hand, Craig stood, and offered his other hand to David's father. "It's a pleasure to see you again, Dr. Noble," he said, forcing himself to smile.

John looked at Craig for a moment and nodded reaching across the table to the man's offered hand. "Nice to see you again, Dr. Parker," he said tersely. "Things working out in the pre-med department?" he asked, trying his best to be as civil as possible. He didn't like the fact David had defied him and brought Craig with him anyway, but as Susan had said the least he could do was be civil.

Craig shook the Chancellor's hand and sat back down, not missing the look of anger that passed behind the narrow eyes. "Yes sir," Craig said. "Things are working out perfectly." // No wonder David is so nervous around him - he can barely bring himself to be civil! // He turned to smile at his lover, hoping he'd relaxed at little. "I'm sure my students will be ready for their finals before our winter break," he said, turning his attention back to David's father.

"Good," John answered looking down to place his napkin in his lap. He had hired the man on good recommendations, at least he knew his son's...friend...was a good teacher from all accounts he'd heard. Not that it changed his opinion of him, barely here a week and already he's living in his son's house. It was pretty obvious to him what he found so 'attractive' about his son who seemed to have no clue how the world really worked. At least this Craig taught something respectable, something *needed*, unlike his son who had his head in the clouds. Always had...and *that* he blamed Susan for. She coddled the boy entirely too much. "David, I'd like to talk to you about your lesson plan for next week that you turned in today. I really think you should change a few things, you are teaching freshmen," John began.

David looked up from studying his plate. He knew exactly what class he was talking about. Damn him! "What? Ní aontaím leis an tuairim sin," David said trying to keep his voice even not even realizing he'd slipped into Gaelic, something his father hated. "They are honor students, I don't think that it will be an issue," David said defending his choices.

Looking up John narrowed his eyes, "I don't care if you don't agree with it, and don't use Gaelic with me, you and your mother do that every time you get angry, I don't understand much of it and I won't have it. Speak to me properly or don't speak at all."

David's mouth snapped shut and he glanced at his mother who was glaring at his father from dark green eyes. // Well civility lasted a whole five minutes. // David looked at Craig with a look that said 'I'm sorry.'

Craig watched the exchange between father and son with growing anger. He knew there was a long waiting list for David's classes, and each semester, students had to be turned away. And the Chancellor's algebra classes weren't exactly the most coveted classes on campus. Obviously, one of them was doing something right, and it *wasn't* David's father. Wishing he could direct the Chancellor's anger toward himself, rather than David, Craig squeezed his lover's hand tightly, trying his best to keep quiet. As David looked over at him with apologetic eyes, Craig felt his face flush. // Dammit, he's turned this around on David, and we've not been here for five minutes!// "I know it's not my place, Dr. Noble", he said, his gaze steady as it met the Chancellor's, "but all my students talk about how much they love David's classes. Even my pre-med students are signing up to take the class as an elective. I understand there's a waiting list a mile long." He held his breath, praying that he hadn't just made this worse.

John's eyes turned toward Craig and he began to say "No it is *not* your place..." but Susan cut him off.

"John," she said softly with an edge of *something* some sort of warning that only married couples seemed to share. Immediately John seemed to withdraw and look over at his wife knowing *that* tone meant keep it at work. He frowned and took a deep breath, "Yes...there are waiting lists for David's classes, I grant him that, he's..." he paused irritatedly, "he's a very enigmatic teacher, but as you said they are taking the class as an elective. It is *not* an important course and I'd like to keep any controversy over it to a minimum. He draws enough attention both positive and negative that we could do without sometimes." John said as venomously as possible, the begrudging compliment of his being an enigmatic teacher evident in his manner.

Craig stiffened in his chair. "Dr. Noble," he said, barely managing to keep his voice affable, "I did *not* mean they were taking it because it was not important. I *meant* that even the students who don't *have* to have it want to take it because of your son's excellent reputation in the classroom." He paused, taking a deep breath. // Damn, they're both gonna throw me out, and David will probably never want to speak to me again. Damn, damn, damn. Well, might as well dive right in, Parker.// "And, honestly, I've heard *nothing* but praise for David on campus - he is one of the most respected professors at the University. You should be very proud." Smiling as he spoke, Craig tried his best not to be confrontational. But there was no way in hell he was going to sit there and let David be hurt like this. He simply couldn't do it.

Susan smiled widely at Craig and looked over at John with a look that simply dared him to say something. "Yes, David doesn't realize how good he really is. I'm glad to see him with someone who sees that so easily," she said softly and shooting a look at John that made him frown but he looked down. "So now that we've gotten that out of the way," she said glancing again at John, "shall we have dinner?" Susan hoped she could deflect John's ire tonight as much as possible but she knew after dinner would be difficult. David and John both knew not to argue during a meal, before or after, but during and Susan would simply run them off from the table without any food at all. She'd done it before, even tossed out the food so there was nothing to eat later. She didn't understand why John over the years had grown so cold and harsh toward David. Especially after losing Jonas she thought that they should have become closer as a family instead it seemed to drive the two men she loved the most further apart.

Craig looked over toward his lover as Dr. Noble and Mrs. Wenham exchanged looks. He was terrified that David would be looking at him with the same anger his father had failed to suppress. Without meeting David's eyes, Craig leaned in and whispered, "I'm sorry, David. I didn't mean to…..God, I'm so sorry."

David reached out and tipped Craig's chin up, "Don't be sorry, love. No one...no one has ever defended me before," he whispered quietly, not noticing his mother's approving gaze across the table. She immediately distracted John with helping him fill his plate and talking to him about her day. As David gazed into Craig's eyes, he almost forgot where he was and whispered, "I love you, Craig. Please don't be sorry."

Craig held David's gaze, relieved beyond belief to see only love, not anger or even disappointment. He brought their entwined fingers up to place a soft kiss on the back of David's hand, feeling himself slowly sinking into the blue depths of his lover's eyes. As David's mother began talking, Craig took a deep breath and tried to remember that they had an audience. He straightened up and looked away regretfully. // God, this is going to be a long night. Let's just hope it doesn't get any worse.// Turning to smile at David's mother, Craig watched as the large dishes were passed around the table, everyone filling their plates and trying to keep the mood light. At least, Mrs. Wenham was. Craig could feel the Chancellor's eyes seeking him out often, but chose to ignore it for the time being.

David smiled as they turned their attention back to the meal. Realizing that his mother had made mostly *his* favorite dishes he grinned to himself. They ate while his mother mostly spoke about silly things that had happened to her during the week trying desperately to keep the mood light. David was so thankful for Craig at his side and grateful to his mother for distracting his father as much as she could. He could see the looks his father was casting toward Craig and shifted in his seat blocking his father's view of his lover. When he looked up his father's eyes flashed angrily before he had to answer a question from his wife. The meal seemed to pass somewhat enjoyably, all due to his mother's good nature.

Laughing and talking with David and his mother, Craig found himself relaxing slightly. Dr. Noble mostly ignored him throughout the rest of dinner, sneaking furtive glances, but never addressing him directly. Which was a good choice, Craig thought to himself. He'd never been one to be able to keep his mouth shut for very long and found himself especially protective of his lover's feelings. David had seemed so happy the previous week, and Craig could tell what an effort he was making not to let things get worse tonight.

As dessert was served, Craig nodded at David's mother. "Mrs. Wenham," he said with a smile, "*that* was the best meal I've had in a while. Everything was wonderful."

Susan smiled warmly, "Why thank you, dear. Please...call me Susan - you are making me feel old," she grinned. She really liked Craig, and could see exactly how much that he cared about David and how much David cared about him. She wished John would just let whatever was stuck in his mind go but she could see the looks he'd been casting the young dark haired man. //Why can't he just let David be happy? //

"Yes, mom that was great, thank you for having us," David said purposefully saying 'us'. He couldn't help the tiny dig and his mother's lips twitched. John mumbled something and stood up, "I'd still like to speak with you in the study, privately if you don't mind?"

David looked up at his father and decided it was now or never. "Actually, I do mind. Whatever you want to say to me you can say to both Craig and I."

John's eyes flashed as he picked up his coffee and headed for the study. Susan's eyebrows raised and she just looked at David, trying to gauge what her son was thinking.

Craig let his shoulders relax a bit when David made it clear that he and Craig were here together, and would speak to his father *together*. He had a feeling that the Chancellor was going to say something cruel to David, and got the distinct impression that he wouldn't do it in front of his wife. He knew he'd be a nervous wreck if he couldn't be by David's side when he faced his father, but was surprised to hear his lover's firm, no-nonsense tone.

"Thank you," he whispered, as they rose from their chairs to follow Dr. Noble toward the study. "I couldn't stand the thoughts of not being with you for this."

"No need to thank me...I have no idea what he wants to talk about but I'm...a little bit of a coward. Having you beside me is the only way I think I can get through this," David said softly, squeezing Craig's hand as the three men passed into the study. Susan had followed them as far as the hallway and stood with her arms wrapped around herself. She wished she could just protect her son from John but she knew she couldn't.

"I'll try to keep my mouth shut, but…….I can't stand to see him hurt you. If I cross the line and you want me to shut the hell up, tell me," Craig said softly as they walked through the heavy wooden door and John closed it behind them without a word, giving Craig just enough time to smile reassuringly at David's mother. // I'll be here for him, Mrs. Wenham. Don't worry. I love him, and I won't stand by and see him hurt. // He hoped his message was conveyed through his eyes before their gazes were broken. He turned, squeezed his lover's hand, and took a deep breath. // Well, here we go.//

John crossed to his desk and set his coffee down then leaned against it, "Have a seat," he said tersely, glaring at David, unable to believe he'd talked back to him. "I would prefer to have this conversation with my son alone, but obviously that isn't going to happen," he said irritatedly pushing away from his desk and stalking over to the window to look out while the two men stood next to the couch. "Sit down," he said, looking back at them still holding hands and frowning.

David met his father's gaze, "I really don't plan on being here that long," he said standing his ground for the first time ever. John looked at him for a moment and nodded. David had never really stood up to him before, part of him respected that his son seemed to finally have a backbone, the other part of him angry that he wasn't bending to John's wishes. "Fine, stand. I don't care. I want to know what is going on? And...just what you think you are doing?" John asked barely keeping his anger in check.

David frowned, "I don't think I understand the question exactly," David said, looking his father in eye.

"Don't play coy, David. It doesn't become you. Why did you invite a man you just met to live in your grandfather's house?" John asked.

David looked at Craig and back at his father, "Last time I looked it was MY house," David responded shortly.

John stepped forward, "Don't get smart with me, David. Answer the fucking question, or don't you know?"

Craig bit his tongue for as long as possible, but he could see that this couldn't end well. "Excuse me, *sir*," he interjected, stepping forward and glaring at David's father. "But I happen to be in love with your son, and he is in love with me. I would like to *think* that you want to see him happy. Or would that upset your equilibrium a little too much? Seeing him happy after all this time, when you're so miserable, you can't see what an amazing family you have? What a truly incredible son who misses you and is trying his damndest to make you happy?? Bloody Hell! What more do you want from him?" // Oh, HELL. I can't believe I said that. Dammit. This is only going to make it worse for David. // His gaze never wavered but he squeezed his lover's hand tightly, apologizing in the only way he could at the moment. // I'm so sorry, love. Please don't hate me for this. I can't just stand by and let him do this to you.//

John's eyes narrowed as Craig spoke. "Love?" he asked laughing, "Oh that just changes everything doesn't it?" John bit off the words staring at his son's...whatever the hell he was. "Do you love him or the house...and the money that goes with it? He's let himself get taken advantage of before. Claimed his last boyfriend whom I *thought* was a good man, wanted nothing but his money and it took him months to get David to pay him the time of day. You've been here what less than two weeks and already you say you are in love? I don't fucking buy it. David's too fucking blind to see it, no one can see I only want what's best for him. He always has the worst luck and now he's traveling down that path again. How many times do I have to stand by and watch it? Watch his mother's heart break for him? What would you think in MY place, Dr. Parker?" John spat angrily. He knew his and David's relationship wasn't perfect but he did love the boy, just...he was always making the worst damn decisions! He NEVER listened...ever.

Craig's free hand clenched into a fist as he met Dr. Noble's gaze. "If *I* were in your place, Dr. Noble," he said in a low voice, "then *I* would want my son to be happy. I am in love with David, I think he is utterly and completely perfect, and frankly, I don't give a damn what you 'buy'. I don't want his money, or his house, or *anything* back from him except his love. And frankly, you calling David 'blind' is the most absurd thing I've ever heard. You're the one who can't see what's in front of you! What do you want? Do you *want* him to be alone? Because it sure as hell seems that you're doing your damnedest to make that happen." He took a step closer to David's father. "But let me let you in on a little secret, *Dr. Noble*. This is different. *I* am not going anywhere. I am going to be by his side for as long as he'll have me, and I don't give a damn what you do - I'm not leaving."

David was in shock, had been since Craig first stood up to his father. He stared at the two men glaring at each other. "You...you didn't care when Richard did what he did...why's it matter so much with Craig?" David asked finally finding his voice. "What are you so worried about?" Then David looked at his father coldly and said what his Aunt had always thought, "Not everyone is like you...Craig isn't like you. He cares about more than money," David said softly but sternly.

John turned his attention to his son anger rolling through him. "What did you just say to me? You've been talking to that bitch haven't you?" he snapped. Susan's sister had always hated him and he had always known she thought he only married Susan for her money.

Just as David started to respond the study door opened then slammed shut. "What are you three doing? I have the entire bookclub in the den for goodness sake!" Susan hissed quietly. "Keep your voices down at least," she said sternly.

John snapped his gaze up to hers, "You wouldn't believe what these two are saying, your precious son just accused me of caring only about money, that bitch sister of yours has been filling his head with all kinds of things," John snapped angrily.

Susan's lips set in a thin line and she shook her head. Diana had always hated John and she nearly found it funny. "Oh, go hIfreann leat, John! Leave my sister out of this she has *nothing* to do with it. You are being an ass." Susan said stomping toward the door. "Come on boys, this is over with. I'll show you out, and you John will go entertain my guests." She should have *never* let them go into that damn study without her.

Craig hung his head, still angry, but completely embarrassed at his display of anger. It had been years since he'd lost his temper like that. He'd not only fucked up with David's father, but most likely with his mother too. And he was still not entirely convinced that he hadn't screwed up his relationship with David beyond all repair. Unable to stop himself from leveling a final glare at Dr. Noble, Craig clung to David's hand and headed toward the door, expecting David to pull away at any moment, or Mrs. Wenham to tell him to leave and never come back.

Susan led the two men out of the room and toward the front door. Looking at David she grinned. "What?" she asked seeing the look on his face.

"I...I can't believe you said *that* to father," he said in shock.

"I've been married to him for 45 years, David, I've told him far worse than go to hell before, and certainly called him worse than an ass," she said grinning reassuringly. "Craig are you alright, honey? I know how John can be...I...I didn't think he'd be that bad. I'm terribly sorry," she said softly.

Craig looked up at David's mother and sighed. "I'm fine," he said softly. "I just…..I'm so sorry. I lost my temper. I knew David and his father didn't get along, but when he started going off on David like that, I just……I don't know what happened. I just couldn't stand it. I understand if you don't want me to come back again." Before Susan could answer, Craig turned quickly toward David. "And I know you must be sorry you invited me, David. I just made things worse for you, I'm sure. Can you ever forgive me for that?"

Susan began to tell Craig that it was all right, she was sure her husband deserved every word of it...she was just sorry she'd missed it but then Craig turned to David so worried that it made her heart ache for him. He did love her son and it made her feel so good.

As Craig turned to him David wrapped his arms around Craig not even caring that his mother was right there. "Don't be silly, of course I forgive you. I love you, and...and no one besides mom and Diana have ever defended me to father before. I...I am sorry it happened but not because of you," David said softly staring into Craig's worried eyes, hoping he could see how sincere he was.

Craig reached up to place one hand on each side of David's face. He smiled softly and took a deep breath, completely forgetting about David's mother being there. He studied his lover's face for a moment before leaning and resting his forehead against David's, relieved that there seemed to be no traces of anger or regret. "Are you ok,?" he asked quietly.

"I'm fine, love. I...I'm still a bit in shock but I'll survive," he whispered holding Craig close.

David's mother cleared her throat and the two men looked at her startled, as if they'd forgotten she was standing there. "Um...I think I should say goodnight," she said unable to stop smiling. David had turned to face her and she reached out taking his hand. "I love you, David," she said holding her son's hand.

"I love you too...and I'm sorry tonight went so...well it could have gone better huh?" he asked softly.

"Don't worry, you didn't start it. Oh my darling sweet boy, don't worry please. Go home with your boyfriend...enjoy the weekend. I'll deal with your father if I have to call the phone company and ask them to turn the phones off and put sugar in his gas tank. He WILL NOT be bothering you this weekend. I promise," she said smiling knowing that her words would make him laugh.

Chuckling David looked at Craig for a moment, "Don't think she won't do it," he grinned at his mother. "I love you, mom. I'll...I'll call you next week," he said softly.

"Do that," she said smiling and turning to Craig taking his hand, "It was a pleasure to meet you Craig...I wish it had been under less...stressful circumstances. Take care of my son, he needs someone to look after him."

Craig squeezed Susan's hand gently and smiled. His other arm wrapped around David's waist and pulled him close. "Mrs. Wenham," he said, turning to look at his lover, "I will *always* look after him, I promise you. And I'm going to make him realize how wonderful he is if it's the last thing I do." He sighed and released her hand, shaking his head. "*You* know it, and *I* know it - now I just want him to know it too." He started to urge David toward the car, then hesitated. "And thank you for not thinking that I'm after…well, all *this*." He gestured toward the house and grounds. "I know Dr. Noble thinks I am, but I swear, I'm not. I only want David. I do hope you know that."

"I believe you Craig, I could just *tell* when I met you that you were sincere, and you do that, you teach him how special he is," she said smiling as David blushed. "Now go...I have to get back," she said opening the door for them.

"Goodnight, mom...I...tell him...well," David began.

"I will...and he loves you, David. He does," she said softly waving as they made their way down the steps. Sighing Susan returned to the den hoping John can let what happened tonight go.

"I'm sorry about all that Craig," David said softly as they got into the car and he started the engine letting the car idle for a while.

Craig slid across the seat and sat next to his lover. "You have nothing to be sorry for," he said quietly. "You were the voice of reason tonight." He closed his eyes and leaned his head back to rest on the seat. "Damn. I really lost it in there. I've never done that before. He'll do whatever he can to get me out of your life, now." Sighing, he tilted his head to look at David. "Tell me the truth - are you really not mad at me? Or did you just not want to say so in front of your mother?"

"No, I'm not mad at you, love. Really. I'm...amazed. I've never had anyone stand up for me beyond mother and Diana. That...you...you were wonderful," David said smiling. "He didn't even know how to react, no one stands up to him except them. And as far as him trying to get you out of my life, I think you made an ally in my mother you won't need to worry about that. He won't like it...but she'll work on him," he said smiling. "It won't affect your job you know...that much I know...my father can be a jerk but he won't let it cross over to your work. He does with me because that line is sort of blurry, but I really don't think he would cause you problems there. Honestly."

"I can find another job," Craig said softly. "But there's only one you." He reached out to run the back of his fingers over David's cheek. "I meant every word I said, you know. I *do* only want your love. And I do think you're perfect and wonderful and smart and you deserve so much better than to be treated the way he treats you. You deserve nothing but love and happiness and laughter, and I'm going to do my damnedest to make sure that's exactly what you get."

"You already have...I've never been happier than I have been with you," David said softly curling his fingers around Craig's wrist and kissing his palm. "Let's go home?" David asked softly.

"Yes," Craig smiled, curling up next to his love. "Home sounds good. Home, a nice blanket, a couple cups of hot chocolate and each other. Sounds like the perfect way to make us forget everything. And maybe I can investigate to make sure there aren't any places on your body I haven't kissed….I *may* have missed one little spot on the back of your right knee. And just above your left elbow. And, you know, that mark on your neck is fading….Probably need to renew that. So much to do…."

Laughing David put the car in gear and started back down the long drive way. "It does sound perfect...you're perfect...and hmmm I think I may have missed a few spots on you as well," David grinned lifting Craig's hand back to his lips and kissing it softly.

The following day.....

David curled his arm around Craig as he leaned against the headboard. They had both gotten sleepy after riding that afternoon, and came back to take showers and then curled up together. Smiling at his lover, he leaned over and gave him a soft kiss on his cheek. "You are so beautiful, mo ghrá," David whispered forgetting that he'd told Craig that mo ghrá meant 'sleep well'.

"Hmmm?" Craig asked, shifting slightly to hold his lover closer. "You're going to sleep already?"

"Huh?" David asked confused for a moment. Then he blushed deeply realizing his mistake. "Uh...ummm," he trailed off looking slightly panic stricken.

Craig looked up at David in confusion. "You just said, 'you are so beautiful, sleep well'. And I asked if you were going to sleep. Did I………did I miss something?" He straightened up, surprised to see how flushed his lover's face was. "Sweetheart? Is something the matter? Why do you look………*blushy*?"

David stared at Craig a moment unsure how to answer. "I...I uh...I didn't exactly tell you what that meant...well not exactly...um...well I...it slipped out that night and I couldn't find any other way to cover it...I was...scared. It...well it doesn't mean sleep well," he explained worriedly.

Pulling back to study his lover's face, Craig furrowed his brow. "You *told* me it meant sleep well," he said, trying to hide his grin. "What - did you call me some really nasty name or something?" He shook his head. "And *why* were you scared? You've totally lost me, love. I have no idea what you're talking about."

David sighed softly and looked down pulling at a thread on the quilt. "It wasn't a really nasty name.," he said softly. "I was scared because it was so soon...I...mo ghrá means my love," he said softly still looking down.

Craig's mouth dropped open for a moment before he grinned from ear to ear. // My love. So he *did* feel it too! // Quickly turning his head away, he sighed dramatically, deciding to play this for all it was worth. "Oh the lies!" he cried loudly. "The horrible, heart wrenching lies!" He turned away, holding his pillow to his chest and trying not to laugh.

"But...but it wasn't a bad lie...I just...I couldn't, oh hell," David said softly, if he's reacting this way how the hell can I ever tell him the other? "I'm so sorry, I promise I'll never ever, ever, lie to you again," he said // After this one, never again. I don't want to be that kind of person…but how can I tell him the other? // Turning toward Craig who had his back to him David felt terrible, he should never have let it slip the first time...but he was so caught up in the moment.

Grabbing the edge of his pillow, Craig turned suddenly and cuffed it lightly across David's shoulder. "Never, ever, ever?" he said softly, grinning at his lover. "You'll *never, ever, ever lie to me again, mo ghrá?" He smacked the pillow gently across David's legs, unable to stop himself from laughing at his expression. "See, I can say it too, now that I know what it means!"

David looked at Craig truly shocked when he hit him with his pillow. "But...but...I won't," he said starting to smile. "I'm sorry...really, and it does mean my love...feel free to look it up I swear!" he said relieved that Craig wasn't really angry with him. "I'm sorry, really," though his last words were muffled when Craig hit him with a pillow again. He began to laugh and tugged at the pillow, "Enough with the pillows," he said grinning.

Craig shook his head. "Oh, no you don't!" he grinned. "*SO* not enough with the pillows. A big ol' lie like that deserves a *REAL* *PILLOW* *FIGHT*." Each of his last words was punctuated by a light sweep of the pillow to his lover's body. "Now, WHAT if I decided I wanted to tell someone to have a good evening and sleep well?" he asked. "Would you *really* want me to tell them 'mo ghrá'? Hmmmm?"

David laughed "No of course not...oh...God I'm sorry," he said laughing as Craig hit him again. Grabbing his own pillow he lightly smacked it across Craig's shoulder and Craig looked at him oddly. "Not a pillow fight unless I fight back right?" he grinned. "More like a pillow mauling if I just let you beat me with it!" he said, sweeping the pillow forward and hitting Craig softly on his side.

"Oh, so *that's* how it's going to be, is it?" Craig laughed. "Well, Dr. Wenham, bring it on! Let's just remember that *I* am the injured party here!" He leveled a flurry of pillow shots across David's legs and arms. "I think *I* deserve proper compensation for my oh-so-grievous-injury!"

David laughed and lunged forward smacking Craig with his pillow softly across his thigh. "I said I was sorry," he said laughing. Moving again he managed to shove Craig backwards on the bed, pinning Craig's hands with his own with the pillow crushed between them. Leaning down and using his teeth he captured the pillowcase between them and tugged it from between them so they were chest to chest. "How can I make it up to you?" he asked smiling down at his lover.

Craig sighed happily as he felt their bare chests resting against each other, and craned his neck up to press a kiss to his lover's soft lips. "Well," he said, still trying not to laugh. "It won't be easy. I mean, I *have* been operating under the false assumption that I was speaking gaelic…..well, ok, only two words of gaelic,…but *still*. I just……" he sighed dramatically again. "I just don't know how I'll get over it. But a nice, long, deep kiss from those perfect lips would be a good start."

David grinned at his lover who was certainly milking his error for all it was worth. "A kiss? Hmmm...I dunno," he said smiling down at Craig who looked surprised and then he leaned forward and pressed his lips to Craig's in a deep kiss, his tongue sliding past smooth teeth to slip along a slick tongue and then he pulled away nibbling at Craig's full bottom lip. "I don't think that one was good enough do you?" he asked grinning down at his lover.

Craig sealed his mouth to his lover's, craning his neck to get closer as they shared a passionate kiss. When David pulled away, Craig looked up at him with sparkling eyes. "Well, *I* certainly thought it was good enough……..for a start anyway. But, if you're not happy with it, I *suppose* I could let you work on it for a while. Until you feel you've got it right…."

David smiled, "I was hoping you'd say that," he whispered as he leaned forward to capture his lover's soft lips again. Kissing him deeply their tongues dancing together until the need for air drove him to pull away. "Better," he murmured softly, dragging in a deep breath.

"Much better," Craig whispered, leaning up to press soft kisses over the hollow of David's throat. Grinning wickedly, he arched an eyebrow. "But not quite enough to get me over the hurt of being lied to….What else have you got?"

For a moment David felt slightly stung by Craig's words. // …get me over the hurt of being lied to…// David tried not to focus on it. "Well," he said grinning and shifting slightly the realization hitting him that he still had Craig's hands pinned above his head. "Oh God, I'm sorry," he whispered releasing his lover's hands quickly a shadow passing over his face quickly. Leaning up on one arm, he pulled Craig's hand down and kissed the inside of his wrist where he'd held him and then did the same to the other before leaning forward and kissing him softly and trailing his lips down to his lover's neck. Sucking gently at the smooth skin, marking him and licking across the red mark before moving lower to his lover's chest. "Didn't mean to hold you down like that, love," David whispered softly.

Smiling as David gently kissed each of his wrists, Craig felt himself fall even further in love. Every second with David was a new discovery, a fresh wonder, glorious freefall into everything Craig had ever dreamed of. He wrapped his arms around the warm body above him and closed his eyes, simply lost in the feeling of his lover's tender ministrations as soft swirls of a warm tongue and gentle marks were trailed down his body. Sighing happily, he threaded his fingers through David's hair. "It's okay sweetheart," he whispered. Staring at his lover, he licked his lips. "You make me crazy," he said softly.

David smiled against warm skin, "You do the same to me, love," he whispered in return as he moved down his lover's body. Licking and nibbling at a taut nipple David closed his eyes, loving the soft gasp he heard. Moving slowly, he licked and kissed and nibbled a trail down to his lover's waist pausing he looked up at Craig. "I love you," he whispered softly before he began to pull down his lover's dark blue boxer shorts. "You are so beautiful, every last inch of you," he murmured.

Moaning at his lover's soft touches, Craig lifted his hips as David freed his already-rigid arousal. It was so hard for him to believe this gorgeous man thought he was beautiful. And Craig honestly believed that David might just mean it when he said he loved him. "My gorgeous, sweet, David," he whispered. "I love you more than I ever thought it possible to love anyone."

David smiled at Craig unable to believe that he thought of him that way and loved him, really loved him, but his eyes were nothing but sincere. Dragging the soft fabric down his lover's body and tossing them away David smiled. Leaning down he kissed his lover's kneecap and moved up his thigh, stopping as his face was inches from his lover's arousal. "Tell me what you want...as you said, you were the injured party," he whispered softly.

"Well, you do have a point," Craig said, gently tugging his lover back up for a deep kiss as his hands slid David's black boxers down muscled thighs and long calves. As soon as the thin fabric was free, he threw the garment to the floor and pressed his arousal against David's, shifting his hips to create a delicious friction. "So, speaking as the injured party, I get *anything* I want? Is that what you're trying to tell me?"

David moaned as his lover's hard length slid against his, "Hmm, yes...anything. Anything you want, love," he said softly. He would do anything for Craig and meant it. He leaned forward and kissed Craig softly murmuring against his lips, "Anything."

Craig let his tongue trail over full lips as he reached between their bodies to wrap his fingers around their arousals. "And do you think you sitting back against that headboard and letting me ride you is included in 'anything'?" he whispered.

"Oh God," David whispered feeling his cock throb in Craig's hand as he whispered in his ear those words. "Uh, yes...definitely included," he said, still not quite believing that Craig really did want him that way. Moving to sit back against the headboard he pulled Craig with him, kissing him deeply. "You are so incredibly sexy you know that?" he asked softly.

Craig settled in his lover's lap, his soft moans lost in the heat of his lover's inviting mouth. "I'm glad you think so," he whispered, pressing his arousal forward to grind against David's. "That makes us even, because *I* think you are the incredibly sexy one." He broke their gaze only long enough to reach over to the nightstand for the lube, quickly pouring a generous amount into his hand and running it smoothly over David's cock, slicking it thoroughly, as he resumed their kiss. After a long moment, Craig pulled away and poured more of the thick substance onto his fingers, spreading his legs to straddle his lover's thighs. His gaze never wavering, he twisted his arm back and slowly inserted two fingers into his own body, pressing them forward quickly, his breath hitching as he felt the need to feel David buried in him *now*.

David gasped into the kiss as Craig's slick hand moved over his aching shaft. Losing himself in the kiss, he took a deep breath as Craig pulled away watching him as he moved finding it difficult to breath as he watched his lover prepare himself. This was a completely new experience and more arousing than he ever thought it would be. Simply watching Craig and listening to his breath hitch as he prepared himself made David so hard he positively ached with need.

Scissoring and twisting his fingers as he hurriedly prepared himself for his lover, Craig leaned in and rested his forehead against David's. When he could wait no longer, he removed his fingers and placed one hand on each of David's shoulders as he moved up to position himself over his lover's arousal. He reached back to hold the slick organ steady and placed the tip at his entrance, his entire body aching with need and damp with sweat. Burying his face in the crook of David's neck, Craig pressed his hips down steadily, moaning as his body engulfed the thick arousal, stopping only when David was fully sheathed within him.

David tipped his head back against the tall headboard and moaned deeply as Craig sunk down around his hard length. Biting his bottom lip he couldn't believe how amazing it felt to be inside his lover this way. "God, Craig. Feels so good," he whispered shakily. He hadn't even started moving yet and David felt as if he could lose control right then. Taking a deep breath he waited for Craig to move as he caressed his back gently.

Craig took a moment to try and regain some control, trembling in his lover's arms as he closed his eyes and pressed soft kisses to David's neck as his body slowly adjusted. Drawing back after a moment, he curled his fingers over the edge of the headboard and began to move, leaning forward and up until only the head of David's arousal was still inside him, then sliding down the length in one smooth motion. Struggling to keep their pace slow and steady, he pressed his lips to his lover's, kissing him deeply and groaning at each inward thrust as they moved together as one. The room was quiet except for their soft moans and the sound of Craig's fingernails scraping across the headboard as he was stretched and filled completely with each downward stroke.

As Craig began to move, David moaned softly inside his lover's mouth when he kissed him. Tentatively at first, David shifted his hips, thrusting up slightly into the perfect body above him. His hands moved across the smooth expanse of his lover's back until they settled lightly at Craig's hips. Kissing his lover deeply he reveled in the feel of his tongue moving within Craig's mouth at the same pace his cock was engulfed inside tight heat over and over again. Never feeling anything like this, he was completely lost in the feel of his lover's body.

Craig spread his legs wider, resting his weight on his knees and clenching around David's cock as his breath came in harsh gasps. He was close - too close - already. His hands moved back down to his lover's shoulders, steadying himself as he felt David delving inside him, setting their pace as Craig looked into the glittering blue eyes. "I love you," he whispered, as he felt his cock begin to leak a long, slow trail of fluid down his shaft and onto David's stomach.

"I love you too," David whispered. Feeling his control beginning to spiral away as Craig's body clenched around him, his hand wrapped around his lover's leaking cock. Stroking firmly with each thrust upwards to meet Craig's downward thrusts he moaned softly. "God you are incredible," he murmured as they moved together, feeling his release building. He continued to move with his lover feeling as if they were the only two people in existence.

Craig's grip tightened on David's shoulders as warm fingers wrapped around his aching cock. Crying out his lover's name, he thrust up into the tight fist working his cock and down to drive David's cock deeply inside him, the thick head slamming into his prostate with each inward thrust. "Now, love," he whispered. "I can't hold back anymore…..I'm……coming……now." His back arched and Craig felt his release totally overwhelm him, every muscle in his body clenching in ecstasy as he threw his head back with a low, deep moan as his seed spilled over David's hand and onto his stomach.

Wrapping one arm around Craig's waist as the other hand stroked his cock, David moaned with Craig as he whispered to him. When he felt already tight muscles clench even tighter around him David cried out in unison with his lover. Feeling Craig's release spill hot and slick over his hand David thrust deeply into Craig's body one final time. He felt as if his climax washed over him like a tidal wave and continued to thrust as his lover's tight muscles milked him. "I love you," he whispered as he trembled against sweat slick skin.

Craig's arousal continued to pulse for long moments after he felt David spill within him, filling him with warmth. Loosening his fingers on his lover's shoulders, he leaned forward to hold him tightly, his entire body still trembling and damp with sweat. "I love you," he murmured softly between soft kisses to his lover's neck. "God, you feel *so* good, love. I love to feel you inside me."

David smiled as Craig held onto him. He still found it hard to believe Craig wanted him that way. No one else ever had, but Craig did...and it made David feel strangely proud. Proud that Craig had been so many firsts for him, not just physically but emotionally as well. "I love you, too. You are amazing, love. So perfect and I am so blessed that you want me."

"I don't know how *anyone* wouldn't want you," Craig whispered, raining soft kisses over his lover's face. "I am the luckiest man in the world, and I can't believe that you love me." He moved carefully out of David's lap, sighing regretfully as his lover's cock slipped from his body. Reaching for a towel, he gently cleaned his love, then himself, and urged David to slide down in the bed. "I don't know how I managed to find you, but I don't ever want to let you go," he said, resting his head on his lover's chest and wrapping his arms around him.

"I can't believe you love *me*. And I don't ever want you to let me go either. I'd be lost without you," David whispered as he snuggled close to his lover. "Completely lost." He closed his eyes and sighed softly as he listened to his lover's heartbeat next to his ear. This man was everything to him, his entire world.

"You're *never* going to be lost, my love," Craig whispered, "because you'll never be without me by your side." Burying his face in David's soft hair, Craig closed his eyes and held his lover tightly. "I swear that I will never want anyone else, never stop wanting you, and never, ever stop loving you. I've held back from saying 'I love you' my entire life, but I always knew that once I said those words, then I'd mean them for the rest of my life. And I was right. You, my love, mean more to me than you could possibly know, and there is no way that will ever change. I. Love. You."

David smiled sleepily and snuggled even closer to his lover. "I love you...and know that I will always love you," David whispered softly. His voice soft as he almost yawned. "I'm sorry love, you wore me out," he grinned. "Sleep with me?"

"Hmmmm….yeah," Craig whispered, running his hands over David's back, soothing him to sleep and singing softly. // I will never get tired of hearing you say that, my sweet David. Never.// "Sleep well, mo ghrá." He grinned. "IF that means 'my love', that is," he couldn't help adding. "I'll have to look that up one day…." Yawning, he wrapped himself around David, the words 'mo ghrá' ringing in his ears as he smiled softly and drifted off to sleep.

"It really does mean it, oíche mhaith, means goodnight, codladh sámh, means sleep well actually, agus milseáin brionglóid, and sweet dreams, mo ghrá, really does mean my love," David said sleepily kissing Craig just before he felt his lover drifting into sleep to follow soon after himself.

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