Title: Here With Me 41/?
Author: Anorien and Sairalinde
Type: RPS
Pairing: Craig/David
Rating: NC-17
Warning: None this chapter.
Beta: Ourselves
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.
A/N: This is A.U. and it is the world we wish really did exist.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

David leaned over and whispered softly in Craig's ear, "So what was that you mentioned earlier...about testing out my desk in the library?" he asked teasingly. They came grocery shopping, but before they ever got out of the car, had spent several long moments kissing and David was more than ready to get his husband home. Keeping close to the line of cars, David slipped his arm around Craig's waist and realized he was paying much more attention to his husband than where their car was parked. They might have even passed by it and he'd have never known, because the only thing he could see, or wanted to see was Craig beside him.

Craig's eyes sparkled as he slid his arm around David's waist, grinning mischievously. Without even trying, David could make him breathless and needy in mere seconds, and now that he had the confidence to try, Craig seemed to be in an almost constant, blissful state of arousal. He moved to stand between David and the handle of the cart, trapped by David's arms as he gave him a soft kiss. "I said I wanted to make sure it was sturdy," he said against his husband's lips - "maybe I could bend over it while you make love to me, then you could bend over it while I make love to you, then I could lie back on it while…well, you get the idea." He pulled his husband closer and kissed the hollow of his neck, running his tongue over the smooth skin, and smiling at the sparkle in his lover's eyes.

David let go of the cart, opting instead to wrap his arms around his husband, kissing him tenderly, until he heard a loud bang and pulled back abruptly. "Oh shit," David laughed softly, releasing Craig reluctantly and jogging to grab their cart that had rolled away and banged into the cart of another shopper. Grabbing the handle as Craig joined him, David looked up and said, "Really sorry about that...oh hello Professor Hamilton," he said not quite smiling any longer. Brad Hamilton had never cared much for David it seemed.

Craig blushed and rested his hand over David's. The other professor looked vaguely familiar, but from the look on his face, Craig didn't think that now was the time for introductions. "Yes," he nodded, "very sorry about that."

Brad looked disdainfully at David. Just as Richard had described him - uncaring of others, and not even giving a damn that Brad could have been hurt by the runaway cart. He could have smashed a finger or broken a toe, and all he got was 'I'm sorry'? And this man standing next to him, who couldn't seem to stop stealing glances at Wenham …..<I> Oh no, it's Professor Wenham-Parker now. By all means, we mustn't forget that! What kind of idiot would give up an intelligent, cultured gentleman like Richard for….for….this boy?</I> Looking at Craig, Brad sniffed and carefully righted everything in his cart that had been knocked over. "Too distracted by your new boy-toy Wenham?" he smirked. "Maybe you should watch where you're going next time. I could have been seriously injured."

David started to say something else but at Brad's words his mouth snapped shut again. <I>Boy-toy?!</i> Taking a deep breath, he looked at Craig for a moment perplexed by Brad's rude answer. "I did say I'm sorry. I was distracted by my *husband* and no one was hurt. Was anything broken?" David asked trying his best to be nice.

Craig looked at the other professor with wide eyes as his arm slid around David's waist. <I> Who the hell does he think he is? </I> Before he could answer Brad's eyes turned to him, giving him the once over from head to toe.

"Oh," Brad laughed, "I'm *so* sorry. Your <I> husband. </i>". He gazed back at David, shaking his head. "Bad choice, Wenham. You had a perfectly good man who adored you in Richard, and you start those viscous lies about him….then *pretend* to be in a car wreck to get everyone's sympathy. And for what? To marry this……" He pointed at Craig, and gave a low laugh, his lip curling up as he shook his head. "Of course, he did manage to do what poor Richard hard tried to do for years……marry you. Funny though….Richard very obviously loved you, but it's quite plain to see that this…pathetic excuse for a man only wants your money.

Craig's face flushed and his fingers tightened on David's waist. "Let's just go, sweetheart," he said softly. "He obviously has no fucking clue what he's talking about."

David's eyes narrowed as Brad spoke. He really didn't give a shit what the man said about him but his insinuations about Craig were pissing him off more and more. David had never liked to get angry, hated the feeling in fact, but his temper was flaring up quickly as Brad spoke. "You have no idea what you are talking about, Brad, you might get your facts straight before you start accusing anyone of anything. We said we were sorry. This was about our cart bumping into yours, not about my choice of husband and to be quite honest my choice of husband is none of your fucking business," David snapped.

"David, please," Craig said, hating to see David get upset over this delusional fool who obviously was determined to do nothing but cause trouble.

"Ah….yes," Brad snorted, nodding his head furiously. "Richard said you had a bad temper. Poor fellow was willing to put up with it because he loved you, and obviously, this little whore of yours is willing to put up with it to, as long as he gets his money in the end. Pathetic, the things these little sluts will go to to get their hands on easy money."

<I>Me? I have a bad temper? Poor Richard? Good God what the hell had Richard been telling everyone about me all these years?</i> David shook his head and looked down at the ground for a moment. As he called Craig a whore, he stepped forward and had the most powerful desire to punch the man he'd ever had in his life. Tamping down that feeling, David clenched his teeth and pulled their cart back, "Believe what you want," David said and turned to Craig, "Let's go home, love." He said softly as they started to walk toward their car.

Craig gritted his teeth and tried not to glare back over his shoulder at the prick who'd started this whole mess. He'd fight for David in a heartbeat, but that was as far as his temper went. He wasn't violent, and as long as David believed in him, that was all that mattered. Even David's father had thought the same thing as this professor until Craig had convinced him otherwise. <I> David. David knows you love him, not his money. No one else matters. No one. </I>

Brad adjusted his jacket and tie even as he rolled his eyes at the retreating figures of the oh-so-precious newlyweds. He had to give it to that Parker-guy. He was a hell of an actor. He played the part of the loving boyfriend and husband since Day One, and so far the mask hadn't slipped one bit. But it would. Then David would beg poor Richard to take him back - fucking *beg* him to. And he's sure as hell better apologize to Richard for letting this whore beat him up too. "That's right," he called after the two men, "go play with your little slut for a few more nights….but you'll see the truth one day and know you had all a man could ever want in Richard. I'll accept your apology then…when you don't have this little gold digger with you."

That did it. David stopped abruptly and turned around, crossing the short distance back to Brad. "What did you just say?" David asked, knowing he'd missed a few words of what he had said from the noise of traffic passing by on the street but hearing more than enough of it to not be able to let it go. "I don't know what you think gives you the right to insult myself or my husband but it will end right now. I have *never* been anything but kind to you Brad, and obviously Richard has filled your head with what he wanted you to think, but I will *not* have you insult Craig that way. He's done nothing to you, and you want a goddamn apology, well I'd like one to. I'd like you to apologize for what you've said here today, there wasn't any need for it and you know it," David said, trying desperately to keep calm.

Craig trailed behind David, surprised at the vehemence in his voice. David *never* let his temper show, and he was in such shock over his husband's words, he could only stare dumbly at the two men and hope that one of them would back down. He would *not* get into a fight - absolutely, positively would not. He couldn't stand for David to think he was violent - not after all the violence he'd already been a victim to. He'd simply wait for David to calm down and they'd go home. Maybe David just needed to say a thing or two, and then it'd all be over with. He hoped.

"*You* want an apology?" Brad laughed. Everyone had always told him that his mouth was bigger than his fists, but dammit, who did the spoiled little rich boy think he was? Besides, Dr. Noble would embarrass the hell out of David at school if he *dared* touch another professor, especially one with the kind of finesse and intelligence that Brad graced the university with every day. And David was close to six feet tall - he wouldn't dare touch Brad, who was much smaller, and detested violence. It was beneath him, and *should* be beneath David, given his upbringing. Unless, of course the whore had taught him that violence was a good thing…a fact that wouldn't have surprised Brad in the least. "Let me tell you something, Wenham," he smirked. "You'll get your apology when hell freezes over. And right now, I'd really appreciate it if you'd get this….boy….out of my sight. It's clear he's of an outrageously lower class of people, well beneath my standards, and I frankly don't enjoy the smell."

Before David could even think, he had advanced quickly on the other man, picking him up by his shirtfront and shoving him back against his SUV. Leaning forward, he put his forearm at his throat. Holding the man up that way with his face only inches from Brad's. "If you *ever* insult my husband again, say one word against him, even fucking BREATHE in his direction I swear on all that is holy you will regret it. Do you understand me?" David hissed through gritted teeth, forgetting where he was, and apparently even *who* he was for the moment. All he knew was he wanted this snobbish piece of shit to simply disappear from the face of the earth. Stepping back, he simply dropped the other man and stood over him as he coughed and sputtered. "And you might want to remember exactly who is head of the English department before you go running your mouth off. Do this on campus, and I will make sure you teach night classes until you retire," David said backing away.

Brad fell to his knees, trying to catch his breath, stunned that anyone would dare touch him. Somewhere in the back of his mind, he relished the thought of tracking Richard down and commiserating about David's nasty, violent temper. He opened his mouth to tell David to go to hell, but stopped when he saw the look in his eyes. After a moment, he looked down, just wanting the two men to leave. He'd proven his point, after all and, despite his words, he couldn't afford to lose his job.

It was all over before Craig could even process what had happened. David….*his* sweet, gentle, David had……had stuck up for him. He realized that David was much more like Craig himself than he'd even realized - Craig would take anything directed at him, but couldn't bear for anyone to harm David in any way. And apparently, David felt the same way about Craig. He reached down to take one of David's hands in his own, forcing the clenched fist open to entwine their fingers. "Please, love," he said softly, "let's go home. He's so not worth it. He's just jealous because we've found things that he'll never have - real love and happiness."

David glared down at Brad for another moment and then relaxed as he felt Craig's hand in his. "Yeah, let's go home," he said softly. As the anger finally started to dissipate, his knees felt a little weak. He had *never* done anything like that before, but he just couldn't stand the things that sniveling little rodent of a man said about Craig. David knew none of it was true and probably should have walked away but he just couldn't. Taking a deep breath, he turned with Craig and walked away back to their car and helped put the groceries in the trunk without saying anything else. Once inside the car, David rested his forehead against the steering wheel and took a deep breath. "He's probably going to file some sort of assault complaint against me," David murmured. "I'm so sorry, Craig I should have walked away...but...I just couldn't. I just couldn't, love," he said turning and pulling Craig's hand up to his lips, kissing his fingers tenderly. "I've...honestly never done anything like that in my life."

"I know, sweetheart," Craig said softly, curling up against his lover and staring into his eyes. "I can't say that I wasn't shocked, but……you stood up for me. I've never seen you really, really angry like that, but, I know how you feel. I only got mad when I thought you were hurt, and you did the same thing just now." He looked up and rested his forehead against David's, squeezing his fingers gently. "I couldn't have walked away if someone said those things about you either. I just….just didn't expect you to do *that*. It made me feel……very, very loved. You have nothing, nothing at all to feel sorry about. That's what husband's *do*, I think."

David smiled "You are very, very loved," he said softly and then pressed a gentle kiss against Craig's lips. "You know I don't think I've ever *been* that angry? I've never been angry enough to want to hit someone and honestly, I didn't hit him but I really wanted to. As soon as he said 'bad choice' I wanted to punch him," David admitted. "I couldn't believe what he'd said about me, what obviously Richard had been telling people about me. But that I could live with, but not the way he treated you, what he said, and just the way he looked at you made my blood boil," David said shaking his head, "Anyway let's just go home shall we?" He started the car and tried to push the events from his mind as he drove.

Craig ran his hand over the tense muscles in David's back as they pulled out of the parking lot. "All I was worried about was that he'd make you believe him," he said softly. "Then I realized that there was no way in hell you'd doubt me. I know you love me, and know that I'd give my very life for you, and I know you don't doubt how I feel for you." He was silent for a moment, staring at his husband's flushed face and resting his head against David's shoulder. He knew David hated violence, and he couldn't stand the thoughts of his lover beating himself up over this one display of anger. When they pulled into the driveway a few minutes later. Craig reached up and gently turned David's face toward his. "Are you ok?" he asked. "Really ok?"

David smiled, glad that Craig knew he would have never believed that man or any other person who said those things. He knew David loved him and he was so happy that Craig realized that. When they arrived home and Craig asked if he was ok David nodded. "I'm fine...or I will be. I'm a little shaken that's all...I...I didn't know I *could* do that, it was strange. It was like I forgot everything, forgot where we were, who I even was. All I knew was I wanted him to just disappear, and I wanted you not to be hurt. That was all I cared about...that you didn't think that I believed him, and that you knew that I believed in you no matter what that prick said," David said softly. "As soon as the shock wears off from it...I'll be just fine," he added, trailing his fingertips down Craig's cheek.

Craig leaned into his husband's touch, a soft smile touching his lips. "I don't care what anyone else thinks," he whispered. "I'm sorry that he thought that, because hearing everything he said had to hurt, but I have no doubt in my mind that you know how much I love and adore you. I just hate the thoughts of all the lies your shit of an ex told everyone. Anyone who knows you would never believe a word of them, but I guess I didn't realize what all he'd been saying. I'm so sorry, sweetheart. Sorry for everything he said, sorry you lost your temper, sorry for all the rumors. You don't deserve any of this."

David sighed softly, "It's all right, love. I'm fairly used to rumors, I've dealt with them my whole life, I am sorry I lost my temper though. I shouldn't have threatened his job that was just wrong. Father will have my ass for it if he complains. Was *not* one of my brighter moments," David grinned. "Sometimes...nevermind, we better get these groceries in," he said turning and reaching for the door handle. He had started to say sometimes he didn't see why he even stayed at the University...he taught because he enjoyed it, but he hated the way the University politics were. He loved his students but for the most part, the rest of the professors and staff could take a long walk off a short pier and he wouldn't bat an eyelash.

"I don't think he'll have the balls to tell anyone," Craig said. "He was shut down, and I don't think he'll be ready to admit that to anyone." He reached across his lover and placed his hand over David's as it rested on the door handle. "Sometimes what?" he asked. "What were you going to say?"

David paused and looked down at Craig's hand over his. "How bout we discuss it later, love?" he asked smiling softly. "Let's just get inside and get the groceries put up and then we can talk a little more. There's...something that's been on my mind, and after what happened this afternoon...I'd like to discuss it with you. But not in the car," he grinned. "Is that ok with you? I promise...I'll explain later."

Craig studied his lover for a moment, and then leaned over to place a soft kiss on his cheek. At one time, those words would have made him wonder if David wanted to break up with him, but they were far beyond that now. "Ok, sweetheart," he agreed, "anything you like. Besides, we can't cuddle properly in here…I'm thinking the couch would be a much more appropriate place for a discussion and some cuddling afterward….and during….and beforehand." He furrowed his brow and grinned. "Maybe we could just put the frozen stuff up, and get right to the couch, yeah? Leave the rest for later?"

David laughed, "I think that sounds like a great idea," he said smiling. Going into the house, they did exactly that. They quickly put all of the refrigerated and frozen foods away and then David looked at the two bags of pantry items. He picked up the bags, opened the pantry, set them inside and closed the door. Several months ago he wouldn't have been able to do that and he grinned inwardly at himself. Taking Craig's hand, they walked into the library and sat down on the couch.

Craig could tell this was serious by the look in his husband's eyes. Holding both of David's hands in his own, he wondered if David's earlier confrontation hadn't affected him more than he'd let on. "What is it, sweetheart?" he asked, sitting on the edge of the couch and holding tightly to his lover's hands. "Did……did I do something?"

"Oh God no, no, love. It's not you...not at all. Just something I've...well I've been thinking about. You remember that phone call I mentioned from my publisher? Where he asked me to work on a few things, an introduction for another book, and of course I'm working on a new book of poetry, and he asked if I would work on that poetry anthology and maybe even do some editing? I said I'd like to but I wasn't sure if I'd have time? Plus...plus there was something you had mentioned a couple weeks ago about the town lacking a free or low income medical clinic...just...well these things have been on my mind a little bit, and that confrontation with Brad just made me realize how much I dislike working at the University anymore. The only thing good about it, is you, and my students. Sally graduates this year so I lose the best graduate assistant I ever had too," David explained.

"Um……ok?" Craig asked, trying to figure out where this was leading. "So…you want more time to write and…and…a free medical clinic has been on your mind, and……I'm sorry - you lost me. I'm just so relieved I hadn't screwed something else, I'm afraid I didn't catch that last bit."

David laughed, "I'm sorry, guess I did sort of just blurt all that out," he said, taking Craig's hand and kissing it gently. "I'll try that again," he grinned. "Today made me realize how much I hate working at the University. I love working just down the hall from you of course," he grinned, "and I love my students...but...I'm tired of people like that Brad. I'm sick of the politics, and the rumors, and butting heads with my father all the time over lesson plans, or well anything. That phone call from Marty had been on my mind the last few weeks. I'd like to have more time to write...but I don't want to take any time away from you because quite frankly that would just make me miserable," David explained, hoping he was making more sense now.

"I'm so sorry you're not happy there," Craig said quietly, running his thumbs over the back of David's knuckles "How can I help? You know I'm behind you one hundred percent, no matter what you do." His heartbeat sped up and he tried to imagine working at the University without David nearby. He didn't even want to think about that…he'd gotten used to being close to the man he loved, that he couldn't imagine walking to work alone, having lunch alone, having no one waiting in his office when he finished a class with open arms and soft kisses. The already long days would be even longer and more unbearable. David *said* he didn't want to take any time away from Craig, but he had a sinking feeling that that was where this conversation was leading. It wasn't that he loved his teaching job, as his goal never had been to teach - he'd always been more comfortable dealing with paperwork than people. But being next to David had made it bearable……and now this. "So……you want to take time off from the University? I understand that. It'll…." He swallowed the lump in his throat and continued, unable to look at his lover. "It'll be good for you. Give you time to write."

"Yeah, it would, but I'm afraid just writing...well I've never tried that, I don't think I could focus enough to just do that, you know? And...and I'd probably spend all my time missing you while you were at work," David said softly. "So...well that's where the thing you mentioned came to mind. If I quit working at the University then the hospital charity fund loses that constant income and I don't want that. So I got to thinking, what if we did open a free and low-income clinic, that way the charity continues to live just in a different way and becomes more beneficial than just a hand out. Many people won't ask for or accept charity, but a free and low-income clinic is different. We could possibly help more people that way than with the general charity fund. But...well I keep saying *we* because I don't know the first thing about how to set something like that up," David explained. He didn't want to assume Craig would want to quit the University to do something like that.

Craig leaned back against the cushions, staring at his husband. He did feel very strongly about the medical clinic. It wasn't until he had no money that he realized how important affordable healthcare really was. But……what was David getting at? "David, I…." He stopped for a moment trying to piece it all together. "I can help you set it up, but……but I don't know when I'll have the time. This is a full time job to get this started and keep it running smoothly, and…well, you know how much time the University takes up. With you not working there, I'll hate it, but…wait…..what are you thinking, exactly? What are you getting at?"

"Well," David laughed, "I guess I'm offering you a job." He smiled at the look on Craig's face. "If...well, if you'd like to, that is, if you wouldn't mind quitting the University. You could work with me to set up the clinic...honestly, you'd be running the show because I haven't the first clue what to do," he added. "I would love to spend more time with you, and doing this...well, we would be able to spend a lot of time together--plus I would still have plenty of time to write."

Craig's mouth fell open and he leaned up to look into David's eyes. "You're serious, aren't you?" he asked incredulously. "You…you…my God. But…are you sure? I mean…I mean, I'd hate the University without you there, absolutely *hate* it, and I'd give anything, anything at all, to be able to spend more time with you. But…you're sure this is what you want? To have me around you all the time? Seriously? I can't keep my hands off you the way it is, and if we were together more often, well…….you can just imagine."

David laughed, "And this is a bad thing?" he asked raising an eyebrow teasingly. "I *think* we are both mature enough to actually get our work accomplished *and* still well...anyway," David grinned. "I am serious. You are the one person I trust most in the world, and I know you're more than qualified and capable of doing this clinic...and I think it will be better for *us* in the long run. Not having to deal with people like Brad," he said distastefully, "and I won't have to deal with my father...might actually improve our relationship a little if we aren't constantly arguing over what direction to go with my students. I mean there are times we'll be apart even doing this...but not as often, and not as long as we spend apart at the University. You don't have to say yes...if you want to stay at the University I'll understand. I just...I just thought I'd suggest it," David said worried that Craig's reaction was because he didn't want to leave his current job.

Craig crawled into David's lap and wrapped both arms and legs around him. "I would love to help you start the clinic," he smiled, raining soft kisses all over David's face. "I don't want to stay at the University. I don't want to stay anywhere that you're not. I'll work my ass off and make this the best clinic in the state. And I won't let you down, I swear."

David smiled as his husband wrapped himself around him and David slid his arms around Craig's waist. "I know you won't let me down, love. That thought never once crossed my mind. I know you are more than qualified and capable for this...and it would be something we could both be proud of and share together. I know it won't be easy...but um I might have a problem if you worked your ass off...I kinda like it," he grinned mischievously and let his hands slip down from the small of Craig's back, to cup the firm flesh of his husband's rear. "Definitely like it, a lot," he teased.

Craig laughed and wiggled in David's lap, pressing back into his firmly gripping hands. Loving the happiness that was shining in David's eyes, he grinned. "My ass definitely likes you a lot too," he agreed, resting his head on his lover's shoulder and kissing his neck. Closing his eyes, he pulled David closer and grinned. "In fact, I think you should take me upstairs and tell me all about how much you like my ass."

"Mmmm, well I do believe that can be arranged," David grinned kissing Craig deeply, his previous good mood restored from before running into the repugnant rat at the grocery store. Pulling back and kissing the tip of Craig's nose he smiled happily. "Upstairs is too far away come to think of it," David whispered softly his hands already moving to the buttons of Craig's shirt.

Craig's fingers slid underneath David's shirt and he ran his thumbs across his lover's nipples. He leaned forward, pressing his rapidly hardening arousal against David's, smiling when he felt that his lover was as hard as Craig was himself. Too impatient to bother with buttons, he quickly lifted his husband's shirt over his head and ran his hands greedily over David's broad chest. <I> I can't believe he's my husband. It's simply too perfect…..*he's* too perfect to be true </I> Staring into lust-filled blue eyes, he smiled and pressed a soft kiss to David's full lips. "Love you," he whispered, his words lost in his lover's mouth, but feeling sure David understood.

David returned Craig's kiss as he pushed his lover's shirt off his shoulders and ran his hands along the warm smooth skin of his husband's back. Sucking on Craig's tongue David pulled back to stare into sparkling eyes. "God you make me crazy," he murmured softly as his hand slipped around to unbutton Craig's jeans. Slowly slipping his hand past the material he wrapped his fingers around his husband's warm hard flesh feeling it twitch in his hand from the contact. "Make love to me, Craig?"

Gasping as his arousal was captured in the warmth of his husband's fingers, Craig closed his eyes for a moment and simply concentrated on his lover's touch. He nodded, leaning in for another deep kiss, before sliding for his position in David's lap, whimpering softly as his cock slid from David's grasp. Lowering himself to the floor, he settled between his husband's knees and leaned forward to press his lips just over the bulge in David's jeans. Breathing warm, moist air over the thick shaft, he slowly made his way down nuzzle into the sensitive skin below, gently licking the denim that covered David's balls as his fingers unfastened the clasp of his jeans. His own jeans worked their way down his legs and he quickly shifted to free himself from their confines.

David watched breathlessly as Craig lowered onto his knees before him. He sucked in a trembling breath when his lover licked him through his jeans; the sight coupled with the sensation was more erotic than he could have imagined it to be. His cock twitched as Craig's fingers worked to unfasten his jeans, and David lifted his hips to allow Craig to pull them down and off.

As soon as David lifted his hips, Craig slid the dark jeans down smooth thighs, letting his fingers trail behind the fabric to ghost over the warm skin left in it's wake. Moments later, the denim hit the floor to join Craig's jeans as he moved forward to run his tongue over every inch of his lover's weeping organ. As he reached the tip, he tasted the proof of his lover's desire, swirling his tongue in the thick fluid and licking carefully at the small slit for more. Finally taking the entire shaft into his mouth, he lowered his head until he felt the tip of David's cock nudge the back of his throat. He swallowed around the swollen head, sucking gently and reached blindly toward the end table for the lube.

His skin tingled everywhere Craig touched him, then as his husband's tongue moved over him David moaned softly, his cock twitching and aching for more. When Craig's mouth sunk around him, David gasped from the warm wet heat surrounding his shaft. Seeing Craig reaching blindly for the lube on the end table, he reached out himself and pressed the small tube into his lover's hand. No one had ever done this to him before Craig, and it was always an amazing feeling to be loved this way. Unable to help himself he arched his hips up into the inviting heat of his lover's mouth.

Craig's fingers gratefully wrapped around the lube as his lips and tongue continued to gently work the length of his lover's shaft. Quickly coating his fingers, he licked at the long, thick vein on the underside of the cock in his mouth as his index finger smoothed the cool lube over David's entrance. He loved feeling his husband like this; giving himself over to passion, and just feeling everything Craig wanted to express, but could never find the words for. His mouth quickly descended as his finger pressed forward, aiming for and finding his lover's most sensitive spot on the first thrust forward. Gently rubbing his lover's prostate for a moment, he moved his finger, the carefully added another, taking his time and preparing his lover for their lovemaking.

David felt as if his heart rate had doubled as Craig's finger slipped inside of him. Rocking his hips downward to feel more of the long digit inside of him, David moaned as Craig's finger brushed over his sweet spot. One hand clenched around a couch cushion, while the other tangled in his lover's soft dark hair. David let his head tip back against the couch for a few moments to try and focus to keep from losing control too quickly. Craig's touch could always bring him to the edge so quickly, so easily. "Oh God, Craig," he whispered. "Please...please take me," he begged wanting more.

Craig moaned at his lover's plea and slid his fingers free from the tight muscle surrounding them. Letting his mouth run up the length of David's arousal one final time, he kissed the tip as his hands came to rest on David's hips. He gently pulled his lover toward the edge of the couch and leaned forward, pressing the tip of his cock against David's entrance. One hand trailed down to make sure he was still relaxed, then trailed back up to wrap around David's cock, still slick with saliva and left over lube. He fingers closed around the engorged head and slid downward in a tight grip as Craig's cock slid smoothly inside David's body. "God, David," he whispered, looking into his lover's eyes, "I can't get enough of you."

Feeling his lover breach him, David moaned and opened his legs wider as he shifted his hips to the very edge of the couch giving Craig the ability to thrust at will. He had come to realize that he no longer ever tensed when they made love, and that he didn't always *need* Craig to be gentle and careful with him, though he always, always was. David wanted to know his lover's passion, wanted Craig to be able to let go with him, just like he had found he could with Craig. He didn't quite know how to tell him that though, he didn't want it to be awkward but Craig knew everything David had been through and he knew he'd never just assume that was what David wanted. He thought about how he might approach the topic sometime then all thought was erased as his lover began to move.

Craig's left hand gripped David's hips, unconsciously holding him steady as his cock slid back and forth in his body. Each slide forward was unbelievably tight, the dark heat surrounding him, causing Craig to moan in ecstasy as he thrust inside again and again. His right hand slid down David's thick organ with each inward thrust and he looked down to see pearly drops of fluid gather at the tip. The sight alone made Craig's own cock twitch and leak inside David's body, and it was through every ounce of willpower Craig possessed not to come inside him then and there. "I love you so much," he whispered as he leaned forward, changing the angle of his thrusts so that the tip of his cock slammed into his lover's prostate.

David's eyes trailed down his lover's body, watching Craig move into him, and with him. When his lover's cock slammed into his prostate, David cried out his husband's name, his muscles contracting around the thick shaft. "I love you, Craig," he whispered, "Oh...God, so close, love," he continued as he thrust up into Craig's tight grip and forward onto his lover's cock. His skin tingling and muscles tensing as he neared his release.

Hearing his name roll off David's lips only served to make Craig even harder. Tight muscles clenched around his cock and with a final desperate cry, he arched his back thrust in deeply, feeling his release slam into him. He spilled deep inside the man he loved, his cock pulsing and jerking as his lover milked him dry.

The feeling of Craig's release exploding within him, brought David over the edge crying out and clutching at the cushions as his seed spilled over his lover's hand. His muscles continued to contract around his lover's shaft as his body trembled. "I love you," he panted as he collapsed back against the couch.

Craig leaned forward and rested his cheek on David's thigh, trying to catch his breath. After a moment, he reached over to the end table for tissues and gently cleaned his lover, placing a soft kiss to the tip of his cock before kissing a trail up to his lips. "I love you, too," he whispered against David's lips, as he finally gave in to their post orgasmic exhaustion and lowered himself onto David's body, his arms wrapping around his lover's waist, and their spent cocks resting against each other. "More than absolutely anything." His head fit perfectly into the crook of his husband's shoulder as he relaxed and shivered as the cool air in the room settled over their sweat dampened bodies, causing him to snuggle even closer.

Feeling Craig shiver, David reached up and pulled the blanket off the back of the couch to cover them and placed a soft kiss against Craig's temple. He loved feeling Craig's skin against his own. Closing his eyes and resting his head back against a throw pillow, David sighed softly. There was nothing better than being loved by his beautiful husband. After long moments of simply holding Craig close David thought about their future plans. "When do you think we should talk to my father about finding replacements for us?" David asked, carding his fingers through Craig's hair. The thought suddenly striking him that he definitely wanted to talk to him as a couple, not separately.

"Whenever you think the time is right," Craig said, smiling as his lover threaded gently fingers through his damp hair. "I trust your judgment completely. I want you to know that I'm going to work hard and not just sit around and watch everyone else work." He shifted to curl up in David's lap, taking a deep breath and settling back down against his lover. "I'll give this job my very best, and make you proud, I promise. No matter what I do, though, some people will say I only got the job because of who I married….your father might even think that, but I'll prove them wrong, love. I swear, they'll eat their words before we're finished. We can do this."

David laughed softly, "We can, and...as far as the charity goes...I'm the boss so if they have a problem with my choice they can just bring it to me. Otherwise they can keep their mouths shut," David said softly. "I already *know* I made the right choice. Who else who isn't a doctor has your credentials around here? No one...and it is a non-profit not like they'd be drooling over your paycheck and wishing they were getting it," David grinned. "You are taking one hell of a pay cut by doing this...I know we haven't really talked about your father's bill in a while, you've handled that out of your checks yourself, but you won't be making as much working for the non-profit...so...so you'll need to consider that. I hadn't thought about that before because I really want you working with me on this but if that is an issue...we can figure something else out," David said softly.

Craig sighed and closed his eyes. "I didn't think about that," he said dejectedly. "The rates on the Abundant Life here in Concord aren't quite as expensive, but…it'll probably take everything I make to keep him there…which means I won't be able to contribute to our household expenses. Damn. I want this to work. I think we can really make a difference. Maybe…maybe we can get him transferred to another hospital? One that's not quite as expensive? I know we just moved him, but there's got to be other facilities within driving distance."

David sighed, "Craig...you married me because you love me? You *know* that I don't believe you married me for my money right? Then...then why can't you let me help with your father's expenses? He's my family now too right?" David said trying very hard to get Craig to bend on this issue. It's something that has always been a bit of a sticking point with them.

Craig leaned back and looked into David's eyes, reaching for his hand and drawing it up between them. "Of course I married you because I love you," he said softly. "I didn't even know you *had* any money when I fell in love with you. I just…" He laid his head back on David's shoulder and closed his eyes. "I've just taken care of things myself for so long, it's not easy for me to give in and let someone help. I guess…God…I don't know…I guess now that we're married……I guess that changes things. I just……don't know how to do this…"

"Sweetheart," David said softly, "It does change things. God, I don't want to have this conversation but I *want* to help with your father. He's part of our family...and God forbid anything ever happens to you, not only would it completely destroy me, but also your poor father would be sent to a state hospital if you can't allow me to help. I know you don't want that. You know what those facilities are like," David said softly, hoping that Craig understood.

"I…I never thought about that," Craig said softly. "I guess…guess you're right." His arms tightened around David's neck and he let out a long, slow breath. "I still want to take whatever salary I get and put it into our household account, though, if that's ok with you. I don't need anything, I don't spend a lot, and I don't ever want you to feel that you're having to carry me…but…I suppose this is the best way."

"That's fine, love...but just know that I would never feel that way. Ever. I love you, you are my husband, and everything that is mine is yours too. You do know that don't you? When I say 'our car' or 'our house' I see it as ours." David tightened his arms around Craig and kissed his cheek gently. "The money does *not* matter to me...YOU and your happiness and our happiness as a couple is all I care about."

Craig smiled and reached one hand up to gently run his finger down David's cheek. "I know, sweetheart," he sighed. "I just…I just wish I could bring more to this marriage. I don't want you to ever feel shortchanged - you deserve so much more than that."

"Bring more? You've got to be kidding me love...do you have any idea what you have done for me? I'm not even the same person I was six months ago, I'm happy for the first time in years. You did that, just being yourself. I don't need anything else, I need *you*...and as far as the clinic goes, like I said I know your expertise will be worth more than anything. Please...I wish you understood that I will never, ever, feel shortchanged. Even if I didn't have a penny to my name and we were living out of a cardboard box I would still feel like the richest man in the world because I have you." David said softly catching Craig's hand and kissing the palm.

Craig smiled and curled his fingers around David's. He had noticed a huge difference in his lover since their first meeting. He hoped it was because of him, but he'd done nothing more than love David with all his heart, and knew that he had no clue about how strong he was, with or without Craig. "I'd be honored to share a cardboard box with you," he said softly. "Nothing else matters but us." He leaned up and placed a tender kiss to his husband's lips and stared into his blue eyes. "Thank you for trusting me, and……thank you for helping me with my father. Most of all, thank you for loving me, and letting me love you back."

David smiled and pulled Craig back for another tender kiss. "Thank you letting me love you, and showing me what it was like to be loved in return. You have no idea how much that has meant to me. How you have changed my life for the better. I was existing before I met you but not *living*. After everything that happened since my brother died it seemed that part of me had died with him...but now, I'm living again because of you. Because of your love, Craig. You are my soul mate, my anamchara," he said softly gazing into his husband's eyes.

Craig smiled and held David's face between both hands. "As you are mine," he said softly. "My soul mate, my anamchara, my everything. I think we both helped each other to live - I helped you to live again, and, in turn, I learned to live myself." Placing soft kisses all over his lover's face, Craig relaxed and laughed softly. "I'd marry you this very minute if we weren't already married. I'd marry you every day for the rest of my life if I could."

David laughed softly, "Hmmm, I kinda like that...lots and lots of honeymoon's," he teased smiling happily. "You know what I want to do right now?" David asked. As Craig arched an eyebrow waiting for him to continue David smiled, "I want to lay on this couch with my arms around my husband, and forget the rest of the world for a while."

Craig nibbled at David's ear and sighed happily. "I do love the way you think," he said softly, leaning back against the arm of the couch, and waiting for David to do the same. "Just waiting for your arms to wrap around me," he smiled.

David smiled as he lay back and wrapped his arms around Craig, "Love you," he whispered softly snuggling against the man he loved. Craig had taught David what it was to be loved, to be happy, and to be equal in a relationship. He knew there would always be people like Brad who criticized what they had, but in the end what they thought didn't matter. Craig was the other half of his soul and though David had said the day they met he always hoped for love at first sight but had a hard time believing in it...he knew the two of them had experienced that. They had fallen in love quickly, over and over again since they first met, and he was beginning to think that perhaps they had loved each other even before that...before they met. That they were somehow fated to be together.

"Love you too," Craig said softly, holding his lover close and relaxing completely into his embrace. It hadn't been easy to give in to David's offer of help, but he knew he had to learn that he was part of a couple now, never to be alone again. It was a good thing to have to adjust to, he thought - finally finding love and comfort and strength in someone else, knowing that he had someone he could count on for the rest of his life. He had no regrets whatsoever - and felt strangely relieved that David trusted him enough to want to help with Lucas. Vowing never to let him regret that decision, nor the decision to ask Craig to help with the clinic, Craig snuggled closer and did exactly what his husband asked - he forgot the rest of the world.

TBC