Here With Me Chapter 13
Title: Here With Me 13/?
Author: Anorien and Sairalinde
Type: RPS
Pairing: Craig/David
Rating: NC-17
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

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

Craig closed the textbook on his desk and smiled to himself, shooing the last student from his office as he looked at the clock. He'd thought the afternoon would *never* end - they always seemed to drag on and on when he wasn't with David. Snapping his briefcase shut, he felt his heart speed up in anticipation of seeing his lover, who was, hopefully, just down the hall in his own office, getting ready to go home too.

As he stepped into the hall and leaned down to set his briefcase on the floor while he fished his keys from his pockets, he felt someone press up against his body and run a hand over his backside. He stood up abruptly - he *knew* it wasn't David. Already, he'd come to know David's touch, and this was *not* it. Turning around quickly with a frown, he started to push whoever it was away. The frown immediately turned to a grin when he saw the handsome young man standing there, wearing a wicked grin. "Orli!" Craig exclaimed. "My God! What are you doing here?" He wrapped his arms around his old friend and laughed.

Orlando hugged Craig back and grinned. "I came to see you," he said. "It's been, what….over a year?" He moved closer, not noticing how Craig backed away. "Thought we'd catch up a bit, maybe have a little fun?" His hand trailed down Craig's arm suggestively. They'd always had a close friendship, and a casual sexual relationship. Orlando knew he was one of the few people Craig considered a friend, and they'd always enjoyed each other's company, both in bed and outside of it. There had always been *something* in Craig's eyes - an inexplicable loneliness that Orli didn't see today, for some reason.

If Craig had any idea how much Orlando loved him, he'd pull away and want to go back to being just friends, afraid of hurting him. As far as Craig was concerned, Orlando was someone to have fun with and laugh with, but nothing more, and he had no clue about Orlando's feelings for him.

"I heard you were teaching here and decided to look you up," Orlando said, wishing that *he* was the reason for the sparkle in Craig's blue eyes, but knowing damn well he wasn't. "Glad I did. You look amazing."

~~~

David took his books from Sally as he turned back from locking his office door. "Thanks," he said looking down.

"No problem, boss. Mind if I walk with you as far as Dr. Parker's? I have to go to the chemistry lab," Sally said as they made their way toward Craig's office. She was going to spend some time in the chemistry lab to try and see if she couldn't get ahead a bit before exams crept up on her.

"Sure," David said distractedly already looking forward to seeing his lover. He'd missed him all afternoon. David had never been in a relationship where he thought about the other person constantly, but he certainly thought of Craig every waking moment of the day it seemed. *This* is what love is supposed to be like, he thought with a grin.

Sally looked over at David and smiled. "Man, I just gotta say…you've got it bad," she teased.

"Got what?" David asked as they turned the corner, as they did David looked up and saw Craig. A happy smile spread across his face as he saw his lover, but then he noticed the other man with him. A very handsome young man with dark curls had his arms around Craig, and it looked like more than just a friendly embrace. His smile immediately slipped from his face and he felt as if his feet had turned to lead, as he stood frozen in place.

Sally looked over at David, concerned and then at the two men just about ten feet away. "Oh," she said softly feeling the tension radiate from the man beside her.

David started to turn away but Sally caught his arm. "Wait," she whispered. "I'm sure it's not what it looks like," she said softly.

David gritted his teeth and looked at her with pleading eyes, he couldn't stand here and watch this. He couldn't. Not after everything Craig said about never wanting anyone else.

Sally grabbed his arm and pulled him into a small alcove where they could watch and listen.

Craig gently pushed Orlando away and grinned. "So, you thought you'd look me up for a quick roll in the hay, did you? Came all this way just for me. Hmmm…..I think I should be flattered."

David clenched his fist and felt tears gather in his eyes as he heard Craig's words, 'a quick roll in the hay...I think I should be flattered,' his heart breaking.

Sally looked at David and rubbed his arm. "Wait," she whispered noticing Craig's body language didn't *seem* to say he wanted the other man. As David looked pleadingly at Sally for a moment she felt her heart break for him. // God, please let me be right, I can't stand to see him hurt again.//

Orlando sighed, frustrated that Craig didn't seem to want to be touched. "A roll in the hay is exactly what I had in mind, actually. I thought we could spend a few days together." He finally decided to back away a bit and give Craig his space. "You know, Parker, I don't think I've ever seen you look this happy. Is this job *that* wonderful? Or did you win the lottery? What's up? I think I could see your smile from about a mile away."

As David heard the younger man speak he felt a wave of anger roll over him. //A roll in the hay? A few days together?// David didn't remember a time when he'd ever felt so angry before, he had never been a violent person, most would say timid even but he felt an uncontrollable urge to…to…to rip the other man apart. Blinking from the emotions that were raging through him he looked at Craig hoping…praying that this wasn't leading where he thought it would. He couldn't stand there and just watch Craig leave with that other man. Not after waiting his whole life for someone like Craig, he couldn't just let this happen. But what could he do? He couldn't compete with someone like *that*.

Craig's grin widened as he looked at his friend. "I *did* win the lottery, as a matter of fact, Orli," he said, leaning back against the wall. "I've fallen in love. For the first time in my life, I've fallen utterly, completely, and hopelessly in love." He poked a finger playfully into Orlando's chest. "So, you'll have to find your roll in the hay elsewhere, my friend. I'm officially taken."

Orlando swallowed the lump in his throat and glanced away for a moment, his heart sinking. He never thought he'd hear those words from Craig - never. And he'd always hoped that if he did, they would be about him. Pasting a bright smile on his face, he leaned against the wall next to Craig. "You? In love? Never thought I'd hear that. Must be one hell of a guy to make you get that dreamy look on your face."

As Sally heard the words drift toward them she sighed in relief and looked at David.

As the words filtered through the painful thoughts he'd had just moments ago David began to smile and looked at Sally wonderingly. "Did he just say?" he began but she was already nodding and smiling brightly at him. "See I told you so. Craig loves you, David," she whispered happily and thanking God that she was right.

Looking back at the two men David felt awkward standing there listening to their conversation, but couldn't quite will himself to move yet. Would Craig be angry if he realized David had been eavesdropping?

Craig closed his eyes and pictured his lover's smile and his glittering blue eyes. "He is *amazing*," he said with a happy sigh. He looked over at Orlando after a moment, unable to keep the excitement from his voice. "His name is David. He's a professor here, and……God, Orli, he is……..he's just perfect. He's the gentlest, sweetest, smartest, most gorgeous, most *perfect* man in the world, and I can't get enough of him."

Orlando nodded and felt his smile turn genuine, despite his raging emotions. He really *had* never seen Craig like this. It made things a little easier. Over the years, he'd almost stopped thinking that he'd ever see Craig this way - this happy and alive.

Pointing down the hall, Craig bit his bottom lip and turned back to Orlando. "Right down that hall, there's an alcove," he said softly. "Just a small, out of the way place that no one has probably ever even noticed. But that's where it happened. That's where I found out that love at first sight is real, and wonderful, and like nothing I've ever felt before. He just looked at me - didn't even have to say a word - he just *looked* at me, and I was lost. Orli, I really, really love him. Scares the hell outta me, but I love him more than you can ever imagine."

David felt his heart swell in his chest as he heard Craig's words, words spoken to a friend, not to him, but to someone else! He glanced at Sally who was smiling brighter than he ever remembered the girl smiling in the four years he'd known her. Looking back at Craig...remembering the alcove he spoke of...he didn't even realize he'd left their hiding place, didn't even realize until he was a few feet away that Craig saw him. Their eyes locked and David simply wrapped his arms around him heedless of anyone else in the hallway, and kissed him deeply.

Craig's shock melted away into something warm and beautiful as David kissed him, his tongue caressing his lover's and trying to tell him exactly how much he loved him, and appreciated him, and wanted him.

Craig wrapped his arms around David, completely forgetting about everything and everyone else, including Orlando. Wondering what brought this on, he decided it didn't really matter, as long as these beautiful lips never left his own. They kissed for long minutes, and Craig felt his heart melt. He could actually *feel* how much David loved him - at least that's what it felt like to him. He'd never known love before, but this had to be it. It was too perfect to be anything else. He held on to his lover tightly until they both had to pull away, gasping, to catch their breaths. "Hello, love," Craig whispered softly, letting his fingers rub gentle circles across his lover's back. "I missed you. And…I *really* like the way you say hello."

Pulling back from the kiss David felt his heart racing in his chest and leaned his forehead against Craig's. "I love you," he whispered. "I missed you too..." he said softly and then blushed brightly and pulled back a bit laughing softly, "Sorry...I...couldn't help myself," he said realizing how strange it had seemed. As his hands trailed up and down Craig's back he vaguely registered that somewhere between his and Sally's hiding place and here he no longer had his books.

Sally found herself smiling as she scrambled up a few feet from the lovers. She'd never witnessed a more beautiful thing in her life she thought as she stood trying to straighten David's books in her arms that he'd literally shoved at her before tearing away to kiss his lover. She stopped and smiled at the handsome man who had been talking to Craig who was looking at the two men smiling himself. "They are beautiful together," she said softly.

Orlando watched Craig smile at his lover and nodded. "They really are," he whispered. "They look like they were just made for each other." He stood, watching the couple for a moment, before clearing his throat. "Um….excuse me. Craig? Hello? Craig?"

Craig smiled, and locked his hands at the small of David's back. "I love you too," he said softly. As Orlando's voice finally broke through, he sighed, and leaned in to nuzzle David's neck, pressing his lips close to his lover's ear. "I *think* we have an audience," he said in a loud stage whisper.

David blushed and laughed turning but not releasing his arm around Craig's waist. "Uh, hi, I'm David," he said to the dark haired young man. Seeing him up close David was amazed that Craig had actually turned him down...turned someone who looked like *that* down for *him*!

Orlando grinned and held out his hand to David. "I'm Orlando. Orlando Bloom. Craig and I are old friends, and I just dropped by to…um…to say hello. Nice to meet you. Craig has been telling me all about you." He found himself smiling at the way the two men looked at each other, the love and happiness evident as their gazes met his own.

Craig's arm was still around David's waist, and he found it difficult to look away from his lover's bright smile. "Sorry," he grinned as he met Orlando's gaze once again. "I kind of……..lost my manners a bit there, Orli." He looked up at Sally, arching his eyebrow. "Sally? Think you've got enough books? You look kind of…….pleased with yourself, despite all those books."

Sally laughed, "I...seem to have gotten stuck with Dr. Wenham's books. You gentlemen have a nice evening. I'm going to the chemistry lab to try and get ahead. Chemistry is NOT my subject. Nice to meet you Mr. Bloom by the way. I'm Sally Jenkins, Dr. Wenham's assistant," she said still smiling. She winked at David as she handed him back his books and whispered softly so only he could hear. "I told you so."

David smiled, "Good luck in the lab, don't blow anything up," he teased as she started to leave, grateful that Sally had made him stay.

Orlando waved to Sally and turned his attention back to Craig and David. "Well," he said, thinking it was time to make a quick get away, as it was obvious Craig really *was* off the market. "I guess I'll be going." He offered his hand to David. "David, I can't tell you what an accomplishment you've made here. I never thought I'd see Craig look at anyone that way. Take care of him for me, ok?"

David smiled and shook the young man's hand, no longer feeling as angry and as threatened as before. "I will, you can count on that. It was nice to meet you," he said softly. Turning back to Craig, he smiled. "And Sally...well...we have something to talk about later," he said feeling worried that Craig won't appreciate that he listened in on his conversation with his friend.

Craig leaned in to place a soft kiss on David's lips. "Ok," he whispered, seeing the serious look in this lover's eyes. He hesitated for a moment before turning back to Orlando. "It was really good to see you, Orli," he said with a smile. "Stop by anytime to see us."

Orlando nodded, noting how naturally Craig used the word 'us'. He really meant it, then. It was going to be difficult to rethink his relationship with Craig, but seeing him this happy did make it easier. He noticed that Craig was already looking back at his lover with a soft smile on his face. "Congrats, Parker," he said softly. "I'm really happy for you. And you too, David." He noticed that neither man seemed to even hear him, already locked back into their own little world, as they gazed into each other's eyes. He turned with a smile and walked down the hall, wishing only the best for the couple behind him, but already missing what he'd always hoped would one day be his. But, he thought, it looked as if David returned Craig's feelings, so at least Craig wouldn't be hurt. He 'hoped' not anyway. At least, if he was hurt, Orlando would be more than happy to help Craig get over it.

David vaguely registered that Orlando was leaving...or had left. "Thanks, Orlando," he said not sure if he was still within hearing distance or not as he stared into his lover's eyes. "Home then?" David asked softly feeling as if he could lose himself within the beautiful eyes in front of him.

"Home sounds perfect," Craig smiled. He ran his hand lightly along David's jaw. "Hey, are you ok? You look a little serious…and you said we need to talk. You're alright, aren't you? Did something happen?"

"No, love. I'm fine...I thought for a moment I wouldn't be...but I know better now. Come on. I'll tell you all about it...but I want to get you home," he said, smiling, trying to alleviate any worry Craig might have. He needed to get his thoughts in order, explain that it wasn't that he didn't trust him...not that at all...but after Richard it was just so hard not to just assume. He should have known better, shouldn't have *had* to eavesdrop.

Craig studied his lover's face for a moment, watching closely as the emotions raced across his face. "I want you to get me home too," he smiled wondering why on earth David had thought he wouldn't be fine. "How about we leave everything here? I'd love to have your *full* attention for the entire night." He smiled and leaned in to lick at the corners of David's lips. "I promise to make it worth your while."

Laughing David nodded, "That sounds great," he said reluctantly releasing Craig so they could put their things in his office. "The only thing I want tonight is you," he said softly feeling his face tingeing red but he meant every word. Stepping back so Craig could open the door he took a deep breath. He'd never felt that immediately jealous of anyone in his life. Even when he'd caught Richard those times, it wasn't the same feeling. This time he'd felt a driving need to run away but after a few moments, his next reaction was that of wanting to simply drag the other man away from Craig. He'd never had that sort of reaction before and it still had him a little thrown.

Craig slid their belongings into his office and locked the door behind him, knowing that David would tell him when the time was right. As they headed toward the exit hand in hand, he paused, pulling them both to a stop in the middle of the hall. "Hey," he said softly, "you know I love you, don't you?"

"Yeah, I do," David said softly, running his fingers through his lover's hair. // I do know...now I really know.// He pulled Craig closer and kissed him softly. "And.I.Love.You," he said punctuating each word with a soft kiss. Releasing his lover, he tangled his fingers with Craig's as they made their way to the double doors and out into the cool evening air.

Less than half an hour later, Craig stood next to David, rubbing soothing circles over the small of his back as David unlocked the door. They'd walked home in comfortable silence, each lost in their own thoughts, stopping more than once to simply share a kiss or a soft touch before continuing on their way, their hands always gently entwined, their bodies always touching. As David threw his keys on the table in the foyer, Craig closed the door behind them and waited to see what David had in mind.

Taking a deep breath, David turned to Craig and held out his hand, "Join me in the library for a little while? I...I'd like to talk to you about something," he said softly. He had been thinking about how to approach this all the way home, and decided just to be honest about it. Leading Craig into the library he sat down next to him on the couch and turned toward him, trying to will the nervousness away.

Craig felt his heart speed up, seeing how serious David looked, and seeing how nervous he appeared. //God, what have I done? // Taking both of his lover's hands in his own, he smiled softly, hoping that this wasn't some gentle preparation for David telling him that things weren't working out, or that he cared him, but only as a friend. Gently squeezing the hands wrapped around his own, Craig sat on the edge of the couch and swallowed the lump in his throat. "What is it, sweetheart? Did I do something?"

"God no!" David said quickly, "I...I did," he said looking down embarrassed. "This afternoon...Sally and I were coming down the hall and I saw...we saw, um saw Orlando with his arms around you, and I...I immediately tried to leave but Sally wouldn't let me. She kept telling me to wait...and she...she pulled me into an alcove so we could hear you and him. You said...you said something about that you should be flattered he came all this way for a roll in the hay and I thought I was going to die right then. My heart was breaking but...but Sally kept saying to wait...to listen. She never believed for a moment that you would...that you...well then I heard you talking about me. Heard you tell him that you loved me, all the things you said...I just rushed out of the alcove and that's when I came up to kiss you. I'm sorry I eavesdropped, and I'm sorry I assumed, truly I am," David explained quickly, the words tumbling out.

Craig sat there, stunned, trying to imagine the pain and heartbreak he'd have felt if their positions had been reversed. Looking back, he could see how his words and familiar touches with Orlando could have looked like something else. It had just never occurred to him at the time. "Oh, God, love," he said softly, releasing David's hands to wrap both arms around him and pull him close. "I'm so sorry. I didn't even think…….I……..Oh, God." His hands ran smoothly over his lover's arms and back, trying to soothe away all the pain he must have felt. "There's nothing for *you* to be sorry for. I can completely understand how it looked. I'm so sorry."

"It's okay, you set me straight without having to say a word to me. I...I can't believe what you said to him...I mean you've said the same things to me before, but hearing you say it unprompted to someone else... God...I thought my heart was going to swell right out of my chest," he said smiling. "I love you so much, Craig. Don't be sorry...I'm glad it happened; I learned something about myself this afternoon. Even though I felt hurt, do you know what? I...I've never in my life felt jealousy the way I did then. I wanted to rip Orlando away from you...not to mention to shreds. Poor fella, I was either on the verge of running away or killing him. I've never felt that way before...all those other times I have been cheated on...really cheated on in the past by others...I never reacted that way. Ever."

Craig smiled and kissed David's temple. "I meant every word I said to Orlando," he said softly. "I've never……never had anyone feel jealous over me, David. Every relationship I've ever had before was……casual. There were never any real feelings involved. I'd have wanted to do the same thing, if I'd seen you with some guy's hands on you - wanted to tear him apart. You know…. I never really thought about that before….I'd have been hurt, and brokenhearted, and…..God, I'd have been angry as hell. Like the other night - I was so angry at your father for hurting you…I never knew I could feel so much of…..well, of any emotion. Just to be totally overwhelmed. I love you so much, and it kills me that you were hurt for even an instant, and that *I* caused that pain, but….I'm glad you heard me tell Orlando how I feel. I've known him forever, and he's one of the few people that knows me well. He saw how happy I was before I even opened my mouth." He tightened his arms around his lover and sighed. "Besides, I would NEVER choose *anyone* over you."

David smiled and held him close, "I'm grateful that Sally made me wait...that she saw what I refused to realize until now. That's why she was so pleased with herself as you put it. Don't be sorry that it hurt me at first, I'm so very glad it happened. I...I'm so glad that you told your friend how you feel about me, because it let me see what I was keeping myself from believing. That...that you really do feel the same way I feel about you." He kissed Craig softly and held him tighter, more than grateful for this beautiful man's love.

"Please don't ever doubt my love for you," Craig whispered. "I love you, worship you, adore everything about you." He started to explain about his relationship with Orlando, then bit his tongue. He didn't know how much David had heard, but decided that he deserved the full truth. "I…..honestly, love, Orlando came here to say hello, and to…….well, he really did want a roll in the hay. We *had* that kind of relationship up until I met you. It never meant anything to either of us, and it will never be that way again." Closing his eyes, Craig bit his bottom lip, knowing that the pain must have been even worse for David, given his past history with Richard. "I meant it when I told you that I didn't want anyone else. I've found everything I've ever looked for right here in your arms."

David nodded, "I will never want anyone else either. I'm...I'm glad your friend came to visit and glad to see that he...well he seemed happy for you," he said softly. "I...I can't believe that you picked me over him though," he murmured softly remembering what the young man looked like. Richard would have jumped at the chance to be with someone like that over him any day, knowing Craig wasn't the same type of person it still amazed him sometimes how much Richard's actions had affected the way he thought about everything. He prayed one day that with Craig's love he'd be able to finally erase all of that.

Seeing how much Richard had affected the way David viewed himself, Craig felt his anger at the man rise yet again. What kind of total and complete idiot could ever treat anyone……especially a man like David, that way? "You really don't see how gorgeous you are, do you?' he asked softly, not expecting an answer. "Orlando is a nice looking man, granted, but you……you are gorgeous and perfect and amazing, and I love you."

David smiled as his face flushed, "I love you too," he said leaning in and giving Craig a tender kiss, his hands moving across the expanse of his lover's back. Deepening the kiss he leaned back, pulling Craig on top of him. As he pulled away for a breath he smiled, "This is better," he said referring to their new position on the couch.

"Mmmmm……..much better," Craig smiled. He leaned down to press his lips to the soft skin of his lover's neck, kissing him tenderly. "Wait," he said, lifting his head abruptly. "I need to take care of something first."

"Hmm?" David asked wondering what Craig was wanting, and regretting the loss of those perfect lips on his skin.

Stretching on top of his lover, Craig reached over to the end table for the portable phone and phone book, unwilling to lose contact with David's body for a moment. He quickly looked up a phone number and dialed, giving his lover a small kiss on the tip of his nose as he waited for the other party to answer. "Yes, I'd like to place an order," he said, smiling at David's curious look. "I'd like one dozen red roses delivered to a Ms. Sally Jenkins at Leigh University tomorrow. And I'd like the card to say "Thank you for making him listen. - Craig." He licked playfully at his lover's lips as he gave the billing address, then hung up the phone. "Now," he whispered, settling back down and threading his fingers through David's hair. "Where were we?"

David began to laugh, "You realize I'll never get her to stop bouncing tomorrow...and we were right...here," David said pulling Craig down into a deep kiss, his tongue sliding against his lover's and stealing their breath away. As Craig's body moved against his he felt himself getting hard. Shifting his hips slightly his arousal brushed against Craig's through their jeans and he moaned into his lover's mouth.

Craig felt himself grow hard almost instantly as his cock thickened and pressed into David's through the soft denim of their jeans. He made quick work of the buttons on David's shirt and let his hands explore the broad, muscled chest beneath him. Their kiss grew more passionate with every passing moment as he deftly unbuttoned his lover's jeans, freeing the thick arousal and stroking it firmly. His own arousal ground into David's hip, and Craig had to pull away from the kiss for a moment before he lost all control and came undone from the exquisite pleasure of simply touching the man he loved beyond rhyme or reason. Letting his thumb travel over the slit at the tip of David's arousal, Craig gently teased and coaxed out more of the pearly fluid that seeped over his fingers.

Arching into his lover's gentle touches moving across his chest, David kissed Craig even more deeply. When Craig's hand moved downward releasing his hard cock he moaned into the kiss and arched upwards seeking more contact. Once Craig pulled away and looked down at him, David smiled and reached up to caress his lover's face softly.

Lovingly exploring every inch of David's mouth with his tongue, Craig kissed him for long minutes, trying to show him how very much he was loved. He pulled back and began to kiss a slow trail down to his lover's arousal. Licking from tip to root, he smiled as David groaned and began to arch up into him. Quickly pushing David's shoes from his feet, and pulling the dark jeans down his legs, Craig's tongue continued to lavish attention on the rigid flesh as he stripped off his own shirt, shoes and jeans.

David felt himself lost within Craig's kiss and burning everywhere his hands or body touched his. Watching as his lover stripped and then lay back on top of him, David smiled. Threading his fingers through soft hair he pulled Craig down for a tender kiss before releasing him again. Watching his lover slide down his body kissing and nibbling caused David's pulse to race, and his heart to hammer against his ribcage. "God I love you," he whispered shakily already feeling himself losing his grasp on control. Craig was intoxicatingly perfect, with a look...a touch he always had David aching for more. He could lose himself completely in his lover's arms, and not care one bit about anything else in the world except the two of them.

Craig reached behind him for the lube that rested in the top drawer of the end table, thankful that they actually *had* bought a supply for each room, because there was not a chance in hell he'd have made it to the bedroom. "I love you too," he whispered, looking deep into David's eyes, making sure he saw that he meant every word with his whole heart. After a long moment, Craig looked away and knelt between his lover's legs, his cock twitching in anticipation. Quickly slicking his fingers, he leaned down to take David's cock into his mouth in one smooth motion, not stopping until his lips rested at the thick base, and he could feel the swollen head in the back of his throat. Moving his mouth over the smooth shaft, he gently pressed one finger into his lover's body, sighing as the tight heat welcomed the digit, and pulled him in further.

Moaning, David watched as his cock disappeared past his lover's lips, amazed at how much this perfect man loved him. As a slick finger pressed against him he was almost surprised to realize he didn't tense up, instead his body welcomed his lover and he found himself smiling happily at the realization. Craig was so quickly erasing his past, building their present and their future with each loving touch, each sweet gesture he made. Threading his fingers through his love's hair neither coaxing or guiding just needing to feel grounded by the simplicity of a touch, David shifted his hips back onto the finger delving inside and upwards into the perfect mouth surrounding him.

Carefully sliding his finger in ever increasing circles, it was soon joined by another as Craig closed his eyes and slowly stretched the guardian muscle, his mouth continuing to work the cock that began to throb between his lips. He noted how relaxed and pliant David was beneath him and he felt his heart beat a little faster at the thought. //He's trusting me. He knows I'll never hurt him. Thank you, love, thank you for that.// Scissoring his fingers, he felt the small ring of muscle loosen even more. He pulled back, breathing heavily, his cock dripping and engorged. "Need you," he said in a trembling voice. "Let me make love to you?"

"Please," David breathed staring at his lover. "I'm yours, love," he said softly meaning every word. He belonged to Craig, body and soul. He would never want anyone else, ever, he would never love anyone else. This was it for him, this...Craig...was his forever.

Craig smiled softly as David's words washed over him. "And I'm yours," he whispered, leaning down to place a soft kiss on each of his lover's hips. "Always." He quickly slicked up his cock, and slid off the couch. Reaching for David's hands, he gently pulled him to his feet, kissing him thoroughly as they both sank to the floor. Stroking his lover's cock with one hand as the other caressed slowly over his body, Craig finally pulled away with a soft moan and urged David to face the couch. He trailed his hands down David's arms and brought each hand up for a soft kiss before placing it on the couch in front of them. Letting one hand travel down his lover's cleft, sliding one, then two fingers back into his body, he assured himself that his lover hadn't tensed up again. He was unable to resist sliding his fingers forward and back a few times, loving the soft gasps the movement elicited.

Smiling as Craig caressed him, David almost hesitated as he turned to face the couch. He began to ask that they remain facing each other but as he turned he looked up and caught sight of the mirror on the wall above the fireplace. His eyes met Craig's in the mirror and he smiled lovingly at him. "I love being able to see your eyes," he whispered as their eyes locked on one another's in their reflection. He had never been with anyone who wanted to face him before, and having that with Craig, seeing the love shining in his eyes as they made love was amazing. Continuing to watch his lover in the mirror David moaned softly as Craig's fingers again slid deep inside him. Shifting on his knees and arching back he felt his muscles clench around the fingers before Craig began to withdraw them. "Please, Craig, I need you...please make love to me," he moaned knowing his voice sounded needy but he didn't give a damn. He did need him like fire needed oxygen to survive.

Craig's voice let out in a slow hiss as he heard the need that matched his own in his lover's voice. "I love looking in your eyes too," he said softly as he lined the tip of his cock up with David's small puckered opening and wrapped both arms around him. He began placing soft kisses to the back of his neck and held him close, never breaking their gaze in the mirror. "You are so perfect, sweetheart. So beautiful and perfect, and so very loved." He pressed forward in one slow, smooth motion, not stopping until he was deeply seated inside. Pausing for a moment, he gave them both time to adjust before he pulled back and slid in again, sinking into the incredible warmth of the man he loved.

As Craig's hard length slid deep inside him David moaned. Leaning back, he rested his head against Craig's shoulder and turned to kiss his lover's neck softly. When Craig began to move within him David moaned again and reached down to tangle his fingers of one hand with Craig's. "I love you," he murmured as he was filled over and over again. His eyes found Craig's again in the mirror and he couldn't tear his eyes away from the look of love that graced his lover's face as their bodies moved as one, like two shadows merging in the fading light of the evening.

Tightening his fingers around David's, Craig held him close, moving within his body and kissing his neck and shoulders with kiss swollen lips. "I love you too," he whispered, his gaze never leaving his lover's in the mirror above them. If David's words weren't enough, or the responses of his body, the look in his eyes confirmed what Craig wanted to believe most. David *did* love him. Somehow, he'd been lucky and blessed enough to truly be loved by this incredible man in his arms. The knowledge made him hold onto his lover even more tightly as he slid his free hand down to stroke the arousal that was trapped between the couch and David's sweat slickened body. He continued to thrust slowly, his fingers working his lover's cock in perfect rhythm with each shift of his hips. Knowing his control was going to be short lived, he finally sped up and changed the angle of his thrusts, aiming the head of his cock at David's prostate and delving even deeper, his breath coming in harsh gasps.

Feeling almost overwhelmed by sensation, David moaned as Craig's thick shaft moved within him, striking his prostate as it slid deep within him. Gasping as Craig's hand wrapped around his aching cock, he found himself thrusting forward into the hand wrapped around him and thrusting backward to feel his lover sink even deeper inside. Unable to keep his eyes open any longer he dropped his head back to Craig's shoulder murmuring, "I love you," over and over again as he felt his mounting release race through his body. Moaning loudly, he felt his muscles clench tightly around the hard length as his release spilled hot and slick over Craig's hand. Shuddering and gasping for breath he nuzzled against Craig's neck as his lover delved deeper inside him seeking his own release.

Burying his face in David's neck as he arched back, Craig's lips and tongue worried the smooth, salty skin as his lover writhed beneath him. He felt the hot spill of David's release flow over his fingers, and thrust in hard one final time, his own release making him cry out breathlessly as his vision clouded and he spilled inside the tight passage, David's muscles milking him relentlessly. Moments later, he finally felt himself relax, holding his lover close, still buried inside his body, as his own body trembled in the aftermath of his orgasm. After a long minute, he slid back onto the floor, gently freeing his softening member from the warmth surrounding it, and pulling David back to relax in his arms. Cradling him close, Craig placed soft kisses over David's face and neck, whispering, "I love you," between each touch of lips to damp skin.

"I love you too," David whispered as Craig held him close. His body felt completely boneless as he trembled in his lover's arms. Trying to slow his breathing to a normal pace, he rested his body against his lover's returning the soft kisses bestowed upon him. Nothing had ever felt *that* perfect, he knew Craig loved him, and he hoped and prayed that Craig knew how much he was loved in return. "You have me completely you know...I'm yours, Craig. All of me," he whispered softly. "Everything."

Craig paused, pulling back to look into his lover's sparkling blue eyes. He reached down to bring David's hand up to his lips, kissing it softly. "Sweetheart, you've had me since you first looked at me with those gorgeous blue eyes." He pressed his lips to his lover's, sharing his very breath, as their heartbeats steadied and slowed, beating in perfect rhythm. "I. Love. You," he said softly. "Always."

David's breath caught as Craig spoke, he could feel the sincerity in his lover's words. He smiled as his love kissed him and sank into his embrace even more. "I love you too, always," he whispered against soft lips. Resting his head against Craig's shoulder he sighed contentedly. "I never thought I'd have this...have what I have with you. I thank God everyday that you are in my life," he whispered meaning every word.

Craig shifted to lean back against the couch for a moment, still cradling David's body against his own. He took a deep breath and as his body started to feel relatively normal again - well, as normal as one could feel after just making love to the man he adored more than life itself, he thought. He reached up for a pillow and a blanket that lay on the end of the couch and placed them both on the floor. He tenderly lowered his lover to the ground and placed his head on the pillow. "We need to remember to put some towels in every room too," he said teasingly, kissing his way down David's body to clean him with his mouth and tongue, stopping only when he'd licked away every last drop of his lover's release. Licking his own fingers clean, he moved up to lie beside David and wrapped the blanket around both of them, snuggling close and smiling. "I'm thinking we have our dinner delivered tonight? Although, I'm not even sure I have enough strength to go answer the door…"

David allowed Craig to maneuver him around until he was lying on the floor enjoying the tender attention. Grinning as Craig spoke about the towels he trembled slightly as Craig leaned down and kissed and licked his way down his body. As his lover then began to clean him with his tongue David shuddered...his body already starting to respond slightly. No one ever...wow. The act was just purely loving and erotic at the same time. He grinned happily. //Towels are highly overrated,// he thought, surprised by his lover's actions. Hesitating a moment he finally found his voice again. "Hmmm, dinner...uh yeah...I'll help you we might be able to crawl to the door," he teased.

"Of course," Craig said, throwing his leg over David's, "even with your oh-so-gracious-assistance, *that* would still require one of us moving to get the phone, and frankly, I don't see that happening anytime soon. So, I guess we can just lie here and talk about all the food we'd *like* to have, once we get the strength to move again. That's about the best I can offer right now."

David laughed softly, "Hmmm...I'm sorry, love...I think you melted my bones," he said snuggling close and pulling Craig tight against him. "Maybe...a nap then dinner?"

"Perfect," Craig yawned. "….was……hoping….you'd…….say….that…." His last words were lost in a soft snore as he closed his eyes and fell asleep, a perfectly happy and content smile on his face, all he'd ever wanted in the world held tightly in his arms.

David laughed softly and pressed a soft kiss against his lover's temple then snuggled closer slipping his hand under his own face and watching Craig sleep. "You have no idea how much you've changed my life for the better, Craig," he whispered softly. Loath to close his eyes, he watched his lover sleep until finally sleep overcame him.

TBC