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sairalinde.livejournal.com) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
fellowshippers2005-10-16 07:33 pm
sairalinde.livejournal.com) wrote in fellowshippers2005-10-16 07:33 pm
A Different Light Chapter: 3
A Different Light Chapter: 3
Authors:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
sairalinde & anorienbean
Pairing: David Wenham/Craig Parker
Rating: Adult for graphic m/m sex
Warnings: None for now,
Archiving: Saira’s Library, Here With Me, Mirrormere, OEAM, others please ask first
Feedback: Yes, please. We live for it. Send to: sairalinde @ hornofgondor.com, or thechroniclesofosgiliath @ yahoo.com
Disclaimer: None of this happened except in our fantasies. We are in no way are implying anything about the sexual preferences of either of our main characters, or any other peripheral characters used in this story.
Summary: A wealthy businessman is forced to do volunteer work and meets a handsome social worker who changes his views about the homeless and about love.
//Indicate thoughts
~~~
Craig studied the young man sitting across the desk from him. Dark, curly hair, a sweet, sincere smile, smooth, lightly tanned skin, and an earnestness and willingness to help that was a rare commodity, especially around the shelter. Always grateful for volunteers, Craig had a feeling that this young man…what was his name?….Yes…Orlando….would be a big help. And not one who would show up for a week or so, then just magically disappear like so many had in the past. “Well,” he smiled, standing up and shaking the younger man’s hand, “I’ll show you around, and introduce you to everyone. Then you can start by helping Hugo in the kitchen. I really appreciate that you can give us so much time, by the way. My one full time volunteer desperately needs some time off, and my paperwork is threatening to overwhelm me. I can really use the extra set of hands to free up a bit of my time.”
Orlando stood and took Craig's hand, squeezing it gently as they shook hands. "I'm ready, just point me in the right direction. I catch on pretty quick...like I said, I've done this sort of thing before. I was glad when I moved here that one of my friends told me about this place. My father always said, growing up rich doesn't mean you have to be privileged. He made all of us do volunteer work, and as we got older, I guess it just stuck with my siblings and myself," he said, following Craig to the door. Already, he was certain that he would enjoy it here, coming to the shelter would be even easier, when he got to have a boss that looked like *that*. "So...how many other volunteer's do you have?" he asked.
Craig opened his office door, and automatically looked down at his watch. David would be here in less than ten minutes. That thought alone made his heart speed up a bit, and he led Orlando out into the hall, his eyes glancing up at the door, just in case David was early. He wasn’t of course, and Craig forced himself to concentrate. “Well,” he said, “to be honest, they usually come and go pretty quickly. Right now, I have Mirry, my only full time volunteer, and David, a part time volunteer who comes in twice a week.” He couldn’t help the small smile that touched his lips as he thought of David, and his mind immediately wandered back to their kiss – a one time occurrence, but one that he was sure he’d never forget as long as he lived. The one perfect kiss of his life. Too bad there couldn’t be more. Shaking his head, he walked toward the kitchen, Orlando trailing behind him. “And David will only be volunteering for another 3 weeks, then he’ll be gone. So, really, you couldn’t have come at a better time.”
Orlando had noticed the smile that had graced Craig's lips as he said this David's name and frowned slightly himself. Then as Craig said he would only be there for another 3 weeks, he smiled. "Three weeks? Why's that?" he asked, following Craig and unable to keep himself from checking the other man out. //Damn he's sexy....now all I have to do is get him to smile like that when he says *my* name.// He almost ran into Craig as he stopped before a swinging door and turned to look at him.
“He has….prior commitments,” Craig said softly, looking back toward the front door. Still no David. “David is a very busy man. Runs his own business. I’m grateful to have him at all…he’s a whiz at the paperwork, and he’s a huge help to me with the grant applications.” //And sexy as hell. And, my God, can the man kiss! He has these eyes that sparkle when he smiles, and….// Rolling his eyes at himself, Craig shook his head. “Anyway, he’s only here on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and I’ll probably keep him with me to finish up the applications, so there’ll be more than enough work out here to keep you occupied. I’ve been trying to do it all myself for the past few years, and to be honest, it’s getting more difficult every day. If you’re serious about staying, and about volunteering so many hours, I’ve got more than enough chores to keep you busy.”
Orlando frowned as he saw the way that Craig's eyes seemed to light up when he talked about this David character. When he said 'I'll probably keep him with me to finish up the applications', Orlando shook his head. "You know I'm pretty good at paperwork too? If he can't stay on, then it would do to get someone else to help you with the paperwork. I don't mind, cook or push a pencil, or a broom, whatever needs done," he said, hoping that once this David was out of the picture, Craig's eyes would light up like that when he looked at him. "So...it is getting kinda late? What time does he normally show up on Saturdays?" Orlando asked looking at his watch.
“He’s usually here at noon,” Craig said, tapping the face of his own watch, thinking it must be fast. //He’ll be here. If nothing else, because he said he would, and whether he’s comfortable or not around this place, he’s as good as his word.// He worried the inside of his cheek for a moment, suddenly afraid something terrible had happened. //What if he was in a car wreck? Or had a family emergency? Or he’s with his…significant other, and had plans with them? Or….what if the kiss scared him off?// Barely an hour had gone by that Craig hadn’t thought about that kiss. //Maybe he was just being nice, and didn’t want to hurt my feelings? Or maybe he did want the kiss, but it wasn’t as good as he’d hoped? Maybe…// Pushing back his dark thoughts, he gave Orlando the biggest smile he could manage. “And thanks for the offer on the paperwork. After David’s volunteer time is up, we’ll see what needs to be done. There may not even be any paperwork left. He’s just been filling them out like its second nature, and he really knows what he’s doing. You should see him. He’s absolutely brilliant with that stuff. I’m better out here, dealing with the people, but David….David is just plowing through those forms like they were nothing. I just wish he’d hurry…and hope he’s ok. It’s not like him to be late.”
Orlando noticed the slight worry in Craig's voice and wondered if there wasn't more going on between Craig and this David guy. "I'm sure he'll be here, after all with a boss like you why would he want to be late if he could help it?" Orlando said, hoping that he hadn't just overstepped his bounds but wanting Craig to know he was interested in him. He looked down at the countertop and recognized the ingredients for spaghetti sauce laid out.
Craig blinked in surprise at Orlando’s words. //Is he…flirting? No…he can’t be flirting. Can he?// He looked up at the younger man, who was studying the sauces, meat, and noodles that were spread across the counter. //Well, after all, look at him. He’s handsome. He’s nice, I can see that already. He has a beautiful smile, and looks like he probably smiles a lot. Good sense of humor. Kind hearted. Fun. Everything you’ve looked for. Why not flirt back a little? Let him know that you’re interested? Only….you’re *not* interested, Parker, and you know it. The only person you’re interested in is already late, and is probably cringing at the thoughts of returning here, just in case you start pawing all over him again. No…Orlando is exactly what I should want. ‘Should’ being the operative word. I don’t want him. // “I think David could probably name about two million other bosses he’d rather have,” he laughed, opening the nearest box of noodles. “I’m sure there’s a good reason he’s late. He’ll be here.”
Orlando shrugged and reached for a can of sauce and opened it. They set to work preparing everything, and Orlando shared details from some of the other shelter's he had worked at over the years as he stirred the sauce. "When I lived in Boston, the shelter there had a second floor, where the people slept, so it kept the lower area for dining and more of a huge almost like family room I guess. The woman who ran it was incredibly nice, but she always wore these big hats. Used to crack me up sometimes, I think she made them herself. All kinds of feathers or flowers," he said waving the spoon a bit. As he did, he flung a small amount of sauce onto Craig's cheek and laughed. "Oh God, I'm so sorry, I have the worst habit of talking with my hands," Orlando said turning toward Craig and wiping the sauce from his cheek gently. He stared into Craig's eyes to see if he'd pull away, and saw nothing there, only humor. //Damn. I'm gona have to try harder to get his attention.//
David switched his gym bag to his other hand and pushed open the door to the shelter. He felt silly walking into a place like this wearing a tuxedo in the middle of the afternoon, but he didn't have time to change after leaving the event at the museum. He didn't want to even attend the damn thing but he had to, it was the part of business he hated...the kissing ass part. But they needed McKellen to be on board for this new venture. So he had to attend the luncheon. Dom had said he should cancel at the shelter and reschedule for another day, that he was sure they were just glad to have the help but David didn't *want* to cancel. He'd looked forward to seeing Craig again ever since last Saturday. Besides he'd already had to cancel Wednesday because of meetings and he had promised he would do this. He felt like he'd be letting Craig down if he didn't. He didn't know why that bothered him so much...but it did.
As he crossed the large room, he hoped to get through to Craig's office unnoticed so he could check in with him and change clothes. Approaching the office, he saw the door was open and Craig wasn't inside. "Damn," he murmured looking around and figuring as late as it was, he was probably in the kitchen getting things started for dinner. Deciding to check in with Craig before he changed, he headed toward the kitchen. As he opened the door, he saw Craig standing very close to a young man with dark curly hair. The handsome young man had his fingers on the side of Craig's face and it appeared that he had walked in on an intimate moment. Immediately a surge of jealousy washed over him and he quickly tried to push it away. They had only shared that one kiss... that one amazing, incredible kiss, but had decided they were too different to pursue anything more. Then, as he thought about it, he thought about the fact Craig kissed him. What if he came on to all the volunteers? Frowning, he started to back out the door but Hugo came around the corner carrying some boxes and smiled at him, "Hey David...what's the special occasion?"
Everything happened so fast in Craig’s mind, that it all just ran together. One moment, he was laughing at Orlando’s description of the lady with the hats, then, the next, Orlando’s fingers were on his cheek. He looked directly into Orlando’s eyes and felt…nothing. Absolutely nothing. The exact opposite of what he’d felt stirring deep within him when he’d looked into David’s eyes. Before he could pull away, he saw the door swing open and heard Hugo talking to someone. Turning around quickly, he saw David…in a tux. //My God. He’s perfect.// His mouth hung open and he completely forgot about Orlando as his eyes met David’s. Rather than the sparkling blue eyes and bright smile he’d looked forward to seeing, he saw something else…something that smothered the sparkle and completely erased the smile. “David?” he asked, walking around the counter and heading toward the door. “Is something wrong?”
David felt trapped and nearly backed into the door then stopped. His eyes moved from Craig to Hugo and he forced a smile that didn't reach his eyes, "Yeah bit much huh? I ran a little late from some work...stuff," he trailed off as Craig moved closer. Swallowing, he shook his head, "Nothing's wrong, just...like I said ran late. Didn't you get my message?" David asked. //Or were you too busy making out with your latest volunteer?// Looking away from Craig, he started to push the door open. "Just wanted to check in with you and see if it was alright if I changed in your office, I didn't have time....sorry I'm late. Won't happen again," he said, snapping off the last a bit more harshly than he intended and meaning it more than just about being late. //How I could have let myself get so distracted with thoughts of him and all he was doing was trying to insure I'd want to come back here on my own. Fuck it. Fuck both of them. If he wants that pretty boy fine, I'll come here, do what's needed and be damn glad when my month is up.// He didn't wait for Craig's answer before he headed back out of the kitchen toward the office, more angry with himself than Craig, for letting this affect him so much.
Craig mumbled an apology to Orlando and headed out the door behind David. He had enough presence of mind to ask Hugo to help Orlando before he left, and let the door swing shut behind him. //Why did David look so…..mad? He was only…oh, God, did he think Orlando and I were….Shit. But he’s the one that said it wouldn’t work out! It’s not like I wanted to kiss Orlando anyway, but if I did, why would David care?// He remembered how gently David had held him, how tenderly his tongue had explored Craig’s mouth…remembered the soft sigh that had escaped from those perfect lips as they’d kissed. //Could it be that he *does* care? If only a little?// Following David as he stalked into Craig’s small office, Craig held out his hand, catching the door before it could slam and entered behind him. Shutting it quietly, he crossed his arms over his chest, leaned back against the wall, and stared at David’s back. “So. Care to tell me what’s really wrong?” he demanded.
David spun around and stared at Craig for a moment, before tossing his gym bag into the chair in front of Craig's desk. "Nothing's wrong...everything is just peachy. Just ran late is all. Like I said it won't happen again," he said staring at Craig and wondering why he was letting this get to him so much. He didn't want to get involved with Craig. They had already decided that on Saturday. It couldn't work, he knew that, they both did, so why was it making him so angry seeing that slender hand touching Craig's cheek like that? Surely they wouldn't have kissed with Hugo right there....well, in the supply closet, but still. Craig didn't strike him as the type, but then he wasn't always the best judge of people. That's why he was better with paperwork.
Craig simply stared at David for a moment. He’d only known him for a couple of days, granted, but he could tell that this anger, and whatever the hell was causing it, didn’t set naturally on his face. He almost wished it *was* because David was jealous….that would at least mean he cared. Or was it that he just had other, more exiting things to do than be at a homeless shelter on a Saturday afternoon? It was selfish, but he wanted David around, if only for a few more weeks, even if David didn’t want to be here. But what good would that do? “Fine,” he said, letting his arms fall to his side and pushing away from the wall. “Listen, David, it’s obvious something else is on your mind. If you won’t tell me what, I can’t help you. If you truly don’t want to be here, just go on back to your office or your home or…wherever it is you really want to be. I won’t hold it against you, and I’ll tell your PR guy that we have more than enough volunteers. I’m sorry I’ve taken up your time. I thought….well, never mind what I thought. It was nice knowing you.” He stared at the other man for a moment, praying that he’d say something…*anything* to stop him.
David narrowed his eyes, "Fine. I'll go, since suddenly you don't need the help anymore. All that crap about needing help. Oh, sure why should you? You've got an eager one in the kitchen don't you? Just go back to your pretty boy then. Obviously that line about never doing anything like that before when you kissed me last Saturday, was bullshit," he snapped, surprising even himself as the words left his mouth. David reached down and grabbed his bag, moving closer to Craig who was still standing in front of the door.
Craig’s mouth fell open and he stared at David incredulously. One part of his mind realized that David really *was* jealous, while the other got mad…really, really mad. There was no way he was going to let him leave like this….not without them getting a few things straight. “Now wait one fucking minute! You have a problem with me? Fine. Just don’t take it out on the people here. This is the perfect excuse for you to get out of here for good isn’t it? The shelter *does* need help, so don’t use this as an excuse to high tail it out of here, when we both know you never wanted to be here in the first place. I’ll stay on the other side of the building from you if that’s what you want, but we’re going to get a few things out in the open first.” Craig could feel his face flushing again, but this time it wasn’t from embarrassment.
"I don't think I have taken anything out on anyone here. I didn't say I wanted to leave, you practically threw me out just now. You said that you had enough volunteers, and apparently you do. Especially one with curly hair, huh? And yeah...I do have a problem with you, Craig. I thought...I...oh fuck, it doesn't matter what I thought. I was right all along, I knew it wouldn't work between us, and this just proves it!" he snapped trying to move toward the door but Craig was still blocking his path.
Craig forced his voice to be calm. “First of all,” he ground out between clenched teeth, “I said I would *tell* your PR people that we have enough volunteers. We don’t, I need you here, I *want* you here. Why do you think I tore that fucking check to pieces? Because I didn’t want you to leave….and not just for the shelter’s sake. Second of all, I *have* never kissed anyone here…ever. You were the first, and I couldn’t help myself, because you drove me crazy from the very second I laid eyes on you. If you don’t believe me, that’s not my problem, but it’s the truth. And third, I was NOT kissing Orlando. He was talking, and moving his hands, and he flung spaghetti sauce on my face, and was cleaning it up. I can’t vouch for what he was thinking, but I’ll tell you what I was thinking, dammit. I was thinking that he was handsome, and nice, and kind, and everything I *should* want. And I was thinking that what it all boiled down to was that I *didn’t* want him…because…because…” His anger suddenly drained away, and he looked down at his shoes, realizing that nothing he could say would probably make a difference. “Oh, hell, never mind. It won’t matter to you anyway.”
"Because what?" David asked, starting to realize how both of them seemed to be unable to say everything they wanted to. As Craig looked up at him and their eyes met, David dropped the bag in his hand and against all of his better judgment, pulled Craig into his arms, kissing him passionately. When Craig gasped in shock, he thrust his tongue past smooth lips and kissed him deeply, all the while propelling them toward the door. At the last moment, his hand slid up to the back of Craig's head, cradling it, to keep him from banging it against the dark wood. David's body pressed against Craig's, and he felt heat surge through him as the other man's hands clutched at him. He didn't know what the hell he was doing. One minute they were arguing, and now...now he was kissing him senseless.
Craig’s eyes closed as David’s lips sealed over his own, and he felt himself being pushed against the door. He waited for his head to crash against the wall, but a gentle hand reached up to protect him, the simple gesture touching him in ways that no words ever could, in ways he couldn’t even begin to explain to himself. After the initial shock, Craig’s fingers wound in the lapels of the tuxedo jacket, somehow managing to pull David even closer than he already was. Both of their tongues vied for the upper hand, each trying to control the kiss, until, finally, Craig could no longer even think. His hands moved underneath David’s jacket to wind around his waist, and his soft moan was lost in the kiss as he simply clung to David, letting him explore at will, somehow knowing that he would be rewarded the same courtesy in moments. He could feel the firm planes and muscles of David’s body pressed solidly against him and he realized that his own body was moving shamelessly between the door and the man in his arms.
Feeling Craig's body moving against his own, David found that he couldn't think, every fiber of his body seemed to be vibrating with need. The normally cool office, felt almost stifling, and he realized suddenly how aroused he was. Thrusting his hips forward slightly he felt Craig's arousal press against him as well. Pulling back, after long moments, he drug in a deep breath, only to be pulled in again, Craig kissing him back with such need that he felt his heart skip in his chest. Never had anyone made him feel like this, *want* like this. David wrapped his arms tighter around Craig and let him kiss him back, feeling as if his entire body were on fire.
Craig left one arm around David’s waist, as the other trailed up his back, thinking he would give anything if that damn shirt could just disappear and he could know what it felt like to touch the smooth skin underneath. His tongue moved over every last inch of the inside of David’s mouth, loving the way he tasted, the way he *felt* in his arms, the way their bodies fit together so perfectly. He was breathless and aroused, his head spinning from lack of oxygen, but that didn’t seem to matter. All that mattered was being here in David’s arms, feeling their bodies moving together, and realizing that he was feeling the same driving need as Craig was. Only when he absolutely *had* to, he pulled away from the kiss, letting his head rest in the cradle of David’s hand and gazing breathlessly into blue eyes.
David was completely lost in deep blue eyes as Craig pulled away. Both of them were breathless, and each intake of breath seemed to push their bodies even closer together. Blinking a couple of times, David began to realize what happened, what *he* had initiated and stepped back. "I...I'm sorry. I...I should just go. I shouldn't have done that. We decided last week that we aren't right for each other. That Orlando fella sounds like he's perfect for you. Maybe I really should go...you deserve to be happy, Craig. After I'm gone you won't remember me...we...we just aren't *right* for each other, even if I want you more than I've ever wanted anyone in my life," he said regretfully. "I can still do the paperwork without actually *being* here if that's what you want. I can do them at home or something and send them over by courier if you really want me to go," he said unsure what to do or think. Stepping back he released him and felt as if a part of himself were being lost here. //It can't work. It can't. You are two very different people. No matter how attracted you are to him, it can't work.//
Craig wanted nothing more than to reach out to David, to pull him back into his arms, and renew their kiss. His brain tried to process everything that had happened in the last few minutes. //David’s here. He was jealous. He kissed me. He said he wants me more than he’s ever wanted anyone. And now he’s offering to leave.// Shaking his head to try and sort through everything, he knew only that he’d never forgive himself if he let David leave now. Just in case….just in case it could work. It probably wouldn’t, but…. He had to know for sure. “Please don’t go,” he said softly. “For the first time in my life, I honestly don’t give a damn about the paperwork. I don’t want Orlando. I never did. When I looked at him, all I could think about was how much I wanted you. I know we probably won’t work, but I can’t let you walk out that door unless I know for sure that there’s no chance. Judging from that kiss, I’d say neither of us can be one hundred percent certain of that. I know I can’t. Can you? Honestly?”
David looked down at the floor and shook his head, "No. I can't say for sure either...I don't know what to think," looking back up, he continued, "This has never happened to me before, Craig. No one has ever gotten to me the way you do, just standing here looking at you. God, I've just never wanted anyone this way and I'm honestly afraid of what that means. I...I don't *do* relationships, but I keep finding myself wanting more than just bending you over that desk which I can honestly say I *really* want to do," he said shaking his head and running his hands through his hair. He was at a loss. No one disarmed him like Craig did, from the first time he'd walked into this office all of his business training, everything he knew about getting what he wanted in a situation like that first day had flown out the window. He even *wanted* to understand Craig's views, even if they weren't what he agreed with.
Craig blinked at the mental image of David bending him over the desk and felt his arousal jerk behind the zipper of his jeans. Taking a deep, calming breath, he walked across the office and sat behind his desk, praying that David wouldn’t bolt out the door once he was out of the way. He didn’t. //So far, so good. But what the hell does he mean he doesn’t *do* relationships?// He gestured toward the chair, hoping David would just sit and talk to him, and maybe they could figure something out. Some way to just try, before writing each other off for good. “Sit, please?” he asked quietly. “Let’s just talk. Either with you sitting there, across the desk from me, or here next to me, so I can see your eyes, and tell you how I feel.”
David watched as Craig sat down and then nodded as he asked him to sit down. Moving around the desk to take his regular seat next to Craig he turned toward him. "All right," he said looking into Craig's eyes and wondering what he meant by tell him how he felt.
Craig stared at David for a moment, and sighed. David looked scared and frustrated and nervous all at the same time, and his normally light blue eyes looked dark and confused. “I didn’t kiss Orlando,” he said softly. “I want you to know that. He flirted with me, but I wasn’t interested in the least. And I was being honest when I said I didn’t just up and kiss people. You were the first person I’ve ever just lost control of myself with and kissed because I wanted to.”
David looked into Craig's eyes and nodded, feeling grateful somehow that he hadn't kissed Orlando even though he still had a twinge of jealousy just thinking of the younger man flirting with Craig. He wasn't used to that feeling at all and looked down. When Craig said he had wanted to kiss him he looked back up into dazzling blue eyes and smiled. "I...I felt that way earlier. It was against my better judgment but...I just couldn't resist you. This...this is pretty much uncharted territory for me, Craig. No one makes me nervous, or no one did...until I met you. You...I dunno what it is, but there is just something about you, something you do to me that I can't seem to figure out. I'm sorry that I got upset. Honestly that has *never* happened to me before. Like I said I don't *do* relationships...I've never gotten...well....jealous before and when I saw him touching you. I assumed too much and...I'm really sorry," he said softly. He was feeling completely out of his depth where normally he had full control of any situation. It was as if his entire world had turned over the moment he had met Craig.
Craig smiled and finally gave in, reaching over and curling his fingers around David’s hand. His heart was only now slowing down from their kiss, and he had to force himself to stay seated. He wanted nothing more than to crawl into David’s lap and curl around him, but he was afraid that would be too much too soon for both of them. Somewhere deep inside him, he was thrilled that David was jealous. “You don’t *do* relationships?” he repeated. “What exactly does that mean? Does it mean you don’t want to work beside me? That if I asked you out on…on a date, that you’d say no? Or that you honestly just want to leave, and never know what could have happened between us if you’d stayed? I’m not trying to pressure you, I’m not asking for any kind of commitment or promises, I’m just trying to understand.”
David shook his head. "I don't know, I just never have *had* a relationship really. The few times I have the other person said that I was too wrapped up in my work. I think I've dated someone for about two months tops...so it just never really *makes* it to the relationship stage. Just a few dates, and...that's about it. I'm not very good at that stuff I guess. I think the last person I dated said I was as romantic as a paperweight. Whatever the hell that means," he said softly.
Craig laughed and moved his chair just a bit closer. “Maybe you’ve just not met the right person,” he said softly. He couldn’t believe he was doing this….*saying* this. But if David walked out that door, Craig would know that he did everything he could to prevent it. “So, we’re both wrapped up in our jobs. I practically live at this place. We know that about each other. We know that we’re attracted to each other. That neither of us are in a relationship right now. That you and I have completely different views on what being homeless means. We know that you want to bend me over this desk, and I want to be bent over this desk by you, and then return the favor. Am I right so far?”
David laughed as Craig said the last and nodded, "Yeah, I think you've got it fairly well nailed down," he grinned. "So what now?" he asked, rubbing his thumb over the back of Craig's hand. Just that tiny connection to him, seemed to drive him crazy. Just being this close to him was a chore keeping his hands wrapped with Craig's and not simply dragging him into his arms again.
Craig stared down at their joined hands, and smiled. He could just imagine what it would feel like to have David’s entire body moving against him, hot and sweaty and breathless as……//Oh God. This isn’t going to be easy.// “How about you help me out here for a few hours, I call in Mirry to take over for the rest of the day, and then you and I go out for dinner? I’ve not been outside of this building in days now, and I’d love to just get away, and get to know you better. Of course, if you agree, you’ll have to seal it with another kiss, because I have to say, that was the most breathtaking, most amazing kiss I’ve ever had in my life, and I want more, just in case you decide you don’t like me after all after you go out with me. *IF* you go out with me.”
David smiled, "A date...that sounds good, especially that kiss part," he said shocked that Craig could even think he wouldn't want to go out with him. "I haven't actually had a date in a few months myself," he trailed off as he pulled Craig closer. "You pick the restaurant," he whispered as his lips pressed to Craig's again. Releasing his hands David wrapped one arm around Craig and the other moved up to tangle in soft dark hair. The same heat that had sparked between them before seemed to sizzle to life in seconds as the kiss deepened.
They kissed for long minutes, and Craig lost track of everything and everyone except the man in his arms. He licked and nibbled, explored and tasted, savoring the taste of David that he’d craved every moment since their first kiss, right here in this office, sitting exactly where they were sitting right now. Except for one thing…Without breaking the kiss, be moved over and crawled into David’s lap, settling in comfortably, and giving a content sigh. When they finally broke away and drew in deep breaths, David’s eyes were sparkling as brightly as Craig’s. Craig gently ran his fingers through soft red hair and smiled. “I swear, if that door was locked, I’d just bend over this desk right now and tell you to go for it,” he grinned.
David had smiled into the kiss as Craig settled in his lap, enjoying the feel of his body so close to his own. Then, when he drew away and spoke, David laughed softly and rested his forehead against Craig's. "Don't tempt me," he whispered. Leaning back, he looked into Craig's eyes and knew that this was all completely uncharted territory for him. He wanted Craig, yes, but more than that he realized that he cared about him, that he *liked* him, which was more than anything he'd felt for anyone else in his life. "Why don't we get started and then we can go to dinner? Anywhere you like...as long as I get to change clothes first, I think a tux is too dressy for more than most places," he grinned.
Craig pressed a final, soft kiss against David’s lips and moved back to his chair, sliding his legs under the desk so his arousal wouldn’t be quite to noticeable. “How about Angelo’s?” he asked, thinking that he hadn’t been to his favorite steak house in months. He really *did* need to get out of this place now and then. “My treat. But only if you move that chair a little closer so I can….um…help you with the paperwork?” His blush was back full force, which was ridiculous, considering the kiss they’d just shared, but it was there nevertheless.
"Angelo's sounds good to me," David smiled as Craig blushed and slid his chair closer. Purposefully leaning over to reach for a pen on Craig's side of the desk he pressed a soft kiss against his cheek as his fingers wrapped around the pen. It was a little silly but...for some reason he just couldn't resist the notion. Leaning back to start on the paperwork he began reading and smiled to himself as he realized Craig was watching him. After a few moments he asked a question about funding, and they settled into their work, though often stealing glances and even kisses once in a while. David had never felt like *this* before, and he decided he was starting to really enjoy the feeling, whatever it was.
~~~
TBC
Authors:
sairalinde & anorienbeanPairing: David Wenham/Craig Parker
Rating: Adult for graphic m/m sex
Warnings: None for now,
Archiving: Saira’s Library, Here With Me, Mirrormere, OEAM, others please ask first
Feedback: Yes, please. We live for it. Send to: sairalinde @ hornofgondor.com, or thechroniclesofosgiliath @ yahoo.com
Disclaimer: None of this happened except in our fantasies. We are in no way are implying anything about the sexual preferences of either of our main characters, or any other peripheral characters used in this story.
Summary: A wealthy businessman is forced to do volunteer work and meets a handsome social worker who changes his views about the homeless and about love.
//Indicate thoughts
~~~
Craig studied the young man sitting across the desk from him. Dark, curly hair, a sweet, sincere smile, smooth, lightly tanned skin, and an earnestness and willingness to help that was a rare commodity, especially around the shelter. Always grateful for volunteers, Craig had a feeling that this young man…what was his name?….Yes…Orlando….would be a big help. And not one who would show up for a week or so, then just magically disappear like so many had in the past. “Well,” he smiled, standing up and shaking the younger man’s hand, “I’ll show you around, and introduce you to everyone. Then you can start by helping Hugo in the kitchen. I really appreciate that you can give us so much time, by the way. My one full time volunteer desperately needs some time off, and my paperwork is threatening to overwhelm me. I can really use the extra set of hands to free up a bit of my time.”
Orlando stood and took Craig's hand, squeezing it gently as they shook hands. "I'm ready, just point me in the right direction. I catch on pretty quick...like I said, I've done this sort of thing before. I was glad when I moved here that one of my friends told me about this place. My father always said, growing up rich doesn't mean you have to be privileged. He made all of us do volunteer work, and as we got older, I guess it just stuck with my siblings and myself," he said, following Craig to the door. Already, he was certain that he would enjoy it here, coming to the shelter would be even easier, when he got to have a boss that looked like *that*. "So...how many other volunteer's do you have?" he asked.
Craig opened his office door, and automatically looked down at his watch. David would be here in less than ten minutes. That thought alone made his heart speed up a bit, and he led Orlando out into the hall, his eyes glancing up at the door, just in case David was early. He wasn’t of course, and Craig forced himself to concentrate. “Well,” he said, “to be honest, they usually come and go pretty quickly. Right now, I have Mirry, my only full time volunteer, and David, a part time volunteer who comes in twice a week.” He couldn’t help the small smile that touched his lips as he thought of David, and his mind immediately wandered back to their kiss – a one time occurrence, but one that he was sure he’d never forget as long as he lived. The one perfect kiss of his life. Too bad there couldn’t be more. Shaking his head, he walked toward the kitchen, Orlando trailing behind him. “And David will only be volunteering for another 3 weeks, then he’ll be gone. So, really, you couldn’t have come at a better time.”
Orlando had noticed the smile that had graced Craig's lips as he said this David's name and frowned slightly himself. Then as Craig said he would only be there for another 3 weeks, he smiled. "Three weeks? Why's that?" he asked, following Craig and unable to keep himself from checking the other man out. //Damn he's sexy....now all I have to do is get him to smile like that when he says *my* name.// He almost ran into Craig as he stopped before a swinging door and turned to look at him.
“He has….prior commitments,” Craig said softly, looking back toward the front door. Still no David. “David is a very busy man. Runs his own business. I’m grateful to have him at all…he’s a whiz at the paperwork, and he’s a huge help to me with the grant applications.” //And sexy as hell. And, my God, can the man kiss! He has these eyes that sparkle when he smiles, and….// Rolling his eyes at himself, Craig shook his head. “Anyway, he’s only here on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and I’ll probably keep him with me to finish up the applications, so there’ll be more than enough work out here to keep you occupied. I’ve been trying to do it all myself for the past few years, and to be honest, it’s getting more difficult every day. If you’re serious about staying, and about volunteering so many hours, I’ve got more than enough chores to keep you busy.”
Orlando frowned as he saw the way that Craig's eyes seemed to light up when he talked about this David character. When he said 'I'll probably keep him with me to finish up the applications', Orlando shook his head. "You know I'm pretty good at paperwork too? If he can't stay on, then it would do to get someone else to help you with the paperwork. I don't mind, cook or push a pencil, or a broom, whatever needs done," he said, hoping that once this David was out of the picture, Craig's eyes would light up like that when he looked at him. "So...it is getting kinda late? What time does he normally show up on Saturdays?" Orlando asked looking at his watch.
“He’s usually here at noon,” Craig said, tapping the face of his own watch, thinking it must be fast. //He’ll be here. If nothing else, because he said he would, and whether he’s comfortable or not around this place, he’s as good as his word.// He worried the inside of his cheek for a moment, suddenly afraid something terrible had happened. //What if he was in a car wreck? Or had a family emergency? Or he’s with his…significant other, and had plans with them? Or….what if the kiss scared him off?// Barely an hour had gone by that Craig hadn’t thought about that kiss. //Maybe he was just being nice, and didn’t want to hurt my feelings? Or maybe he did want the kiss, but it wasn’t as good as he’d hoped? Maybe…// Pushing back his dark thoughts, he gave Orlando the biggest smile he could manage. “And thanks for the offer on the paperwork. After David’s volunteer time is up, we’ll see what needs to be done. There may not even be any paperwork left. He’s just been filling them out like its second nature, and he really knows what he’s doing. You should see him. He’s absolutely brilliant with that stuff. I’m better out here, dealing with the people, but David….David is just plowing through those forms like they were nothing. I just wish he’d hurry…and hope he’s ok. It’s not like him to be late.”
Orlando noticed the slight worry in Craig's voice and wondered if there wasn't more going on between Craig and this David guy. "I'm sure he'll be here, after all with a boss like you why would he want to be late if he could help it?" Orlando said, hoping that he hadn't just overstepped his bounds but wanting Craig to know he was interested in him. He looked down at the countertop and recognized the ingredients for spaghetti sauce laid out.
Craig blinked in surprise at Orlando’s words. //Is he…flirting? No…he can’t be flirting. Can he?// He looked up at the younger man, who was studying the sauces, meat, and noodles that were spread across the counter. //Well, after all, look at him. He’s handsome. He’s nice, I can see that already. He has a beautiful smile, and looks like he probably smiles a lot. Good sense of humor. Kind hearted. Fun. Everything you’ve looked for. Why not flirt back a little? Let him know that you’re interested? Only….you’re *not* interested, Parker, and you know it. The only person you’re interested in is already late, and is probably cringing at the thoughts of returning here, just in case you start pawing all over him again. No…Orlando is exactly what I should want. ‘Should’ being the operative word. I don’t want him. // “I think David could probably name about two million other bosses he’d rather have,” he laughed, opening the nearest box of noodles. “I’m sure there’s a good reason he’s late. He’ll be here.”
Orlando shrugged and reached for a can of sauce and opened it. They set to work preparing everything, and Orlando shared details from some of the other shelter's he had worked at over the years as he stirred the sauce. "When I lived in Boston, the shelter there had a second floor, where the people slept, so it kept the lower area for dining and more of a huge almost like family room I guess. The woman who ran it was incredibly nice, but she always wore these big hats. Used to crack me up sometimes, I think she made them herself. All kinds of feathers or flowers," he said waving the spoon a bit. As he did, he flung a small amount of sauce onto Craig's cheek and laughed. "Oh God, I'm so sorry, I have the worst habit of talking with my hands," Orlando said turning toward Craig and wiping the sauce from his cheek gently. He stared into Craig's eyes to see if he'd pull away, and saw nothing there, only humor. //Damn. I'm gona have to try harder to get his attention.//
David switched his gym bag to his other hand and pushed open the door to the shelter. He felt silly walking into a place like this wearing a tuxedo in the middle of the afternoon, but he didn't have time to change after leaving the event at the museum. He didn't want to even attend the damn thing but he had to, it was the part of business he hated...the kissing ass part. But they needed McKellen to be on board for this new venture. So he had to attend the luncheon. Dom had said he should cancel at the shelter and reschedule for another day, that he was sure they were just glad to have the help but David didn't *want* to cancel. He'd looked forward to seeing Craig again ever since last Saturday. Besides he'd already had to cancel Wednesday because of meetings and he had promised he would do this. He felt like he'd be letting Craig down if he didn't. He didn't know why that bothered him so much...but it did.
As he crossed the large room, he hoped to get through to Craig's office unnoticed so he could check in with him and change clothes. Approaching the office, he saw the door was open and Craig wasn't inside. "Damn," he murmured looking around and figuring as late as it was, he was probably in the kitchen getting things started for dinner. Deciding to check in with Craig before he changed, he headed toward the kitchen. As he opened the door, he saw Craig standing very close to a young man with dark curly hair. The handsome young man had his fingers on the side of Craig's face and it appeared that he had walked in on an intimate moment. Immediately a surge of jealousy washed over him and he quickly tried to push it away. They had only shared that one kiss... that one amazing, incredible kiss, but had decided they were too different to pursue anything more. Then, as he thought about it, he thought about the fact Craig kissed him. What if he came on to all the volunteers? Frowning, he started to back out the door but Hugo came around the corner carrying some boxes and smiled at him, "Hey David...what's the special occasion?"
Everything happened so fast in Craig’s mind, that it all just ran together. One moment, he was laughing at Orlando’s description of the lady with the hats, then, the next, Orlando’s fingers were on his cheek. He looked directly into Orlando’s eyes and felt…nothing. Absolutely nothing. The exact opposite of what he’d felt stirring deep within him when he’d looked into David’s eyes. Before he could pull away, he saw the door swing open and heard Hugo talking to someone. Turning around quickly, he saw David…in a tux. //My God. He’s perfect.// His mouth hung open and he completely forgot about Orlando as his eyes met David’s. Rather than the sparkling blue eyes and bright smile he’d looked forward to seeing, he saw something else…something that smothered the sparkle and completely erased the smile. “David?” he asked, walking around the counter and heading toward the door. “Is something wrong?”
David felt trapped and nearly backed into the door then stopped. His eyes moved from Craig to Hugo and he forced a smile that didn't reach his eyes, "Yeah bit much huh? I ran a little late from some work...stuff," he trailed off as Craig moved closer. Swallowing, he shook his head, "Nothing's wrong, just...like I said ran late. Didn't you get my message?" David asked. //Or were you too busy making out with your latest volunteer?// Looking away from Craig, he started to push the door open. "Just wanted to check in with you and see if it was alright if I changed in your office, I didn't have time....sorry I'm late. Won't happen again," he said, snapping off the last a bit more harshly than he intended and meaning it more than just about being late. //How I could have let myself get so distracted with thoughts of him and all he was doing was trying to insure I'd want to come back here on my own. Fuck it. Fuck both of them. If he wants that pretty boy fine, I'll come here, do what's needed and be damn glad when my month is up.// He didn't wait for Craig's answer before he headed back out of the kitchen toward the office, more angry with himself than Craig, for letting this affect him so much.
Craig mumbled an apology to Orlando and headed out the door behind David. He had enough presence of mind to ask Hugo to help Orlando before he left, and let the door swing shut behind him. //Why did David look so…..mad? He was only…oh, God, did he think Orlando and I were….Shit. But he’s the one that said it wouldn’t work out! It’s not like I wanted to kiss Orlando anyway, but if I did, why would David care?// He remembered how gently David had held him, how tenderly his tongue had explored Craig’s mouth…remembered the soft sigh that had escaped from those perfect lips as they’d kissed. //Could it be that he *does* care? If only a little?// Following David as he stalked into Craig’s small office, Craig held out his hand, catching the door before it could slam and entered behind him. Shutting it quietly, he crossed his arms over his chest, leaned back against the wall, and stared at David’s back. “So. Care to tell me what’s really wrong?” he demanded.
David spun around and stared at Craig for a moment, before tossing his gym bag into the chair in front of Craig's desk. "Nothing's wrong...everything is just peachy. Just ran late is all. Like I said it won't happen again," he said staring at Craig and wondering why he was letting this get to him so much. He didn't want to get involved with Craig. They had already decided that on Saturday. It couldn't work, he knew that, they both did, so why was it making him so angry seeing that slender hand touching Craig's cheek like that? Surely they wouldn't have kissed with Hugo right there....well, in the supply closet, but still. Craig didn't strike him as the type, but then he wasn't always the best judge of people. That's why he was better with paperwork.
Craig simply stared at David for a moment. He’d only known him for a couple of days, granted, but he could tell that this anger, and whatever the hell was causing it, didn’t set naturally on his face. He almost wished it *was* because David was jealous….that would at least mean he cared. Or was it that he just had other, more exiting things to do than be at a homeless shelter on a Saturday afternoon? It was selfish, but he wanted David around, if only for a few more weeks, even if David didn’t want to be here. But what good would that do? “Fine,” he said, letting his arms fall to his side and pushing away from the wall. “Listen, David, it’s obvious something else is on your mind. If you won’t tell me what, I can’t help you. If you truly don’t want to be here, just go on back to your office or your home or…wherever it is you really want to be. I won’t hold it against you, and I’ll tell your PR guy that we have more than enough volunteers. I’m sorry I’ve taken up your time. I thought….well, never mind what I thought. It was nice knowing you.” He stared at the other man for a moment, praying that he’d say something…*anything* to stop him.
David narrowed his eyes, "Fine. I'll go, since suddenly you don't need the help anymore. All that crap about needing help. Oh, sure why should you? You've got an eager one in the kitchen don't you? Just go back to your pretty boy then. Obviously that line about never doing anything like that before when you kissed me last Saturday, was bullshit," he snapped, surprising even himself as the words left his mouth. David reached down and grabbed his bag, moving closer to Craig who was still standing in front of the door.
Craig’s mouth fell open and he stared at David incredulously. One part of his mind realized that David really *was* jealous, while the other got mad…really, really mad. There was no way he was going to let him leave like this….not without them getting a few things straight. “Now wait one fucking minute! You have a problem with me? Fine. Just don’t take it out on the people here. This is the perfect excuse for you to get out of here for good isn’t it? The shelter *does* need help, so don’t use this as an excuse to high tail it out of here, when we both know you never wanted to be here in the first place. I’ll stay on the other side of the building from you if that’s what you want, but we’re going to get a few things out in the open first.” Craig could feel his face flushing again, but this time it wasn’t from embarrassment.
"I don't think I have taken anything out on anyone here. I didn't say I wanted to leave, you practically threw me out just now. You said that you had enough volunteers, and apparently you do. Especially one with curly hair, huh? And yeah...I do have a problem with you, Craig. I thought...I...oh fuck, it doesn't matter what I thought. I was right all along, I knew it wouldn't work between us, and this just proves it!" he snapped trying to move toward the door but Craig was still blocking his path.
Craig forced his voice to be calm. “First of all,” he ground out between clenched teeth, “I said I would *tell* your PR people that we have enough volunteers. We don’t, I need you here, I *want* you here. Why do you think I tore that fucking check to pieces? Because I didn’t want you to leave….and not just for the shelter’s sake. Second of all, I *have* never kissed anyone here…ever. You were the first, and I couldn’t help myself, because you drove me crazy from the very second I laid eyes on you. If you don’t believe me, that’s not my problem, but it’s the truth. And third, I was NOT kissing Orlando. He was talking, and moving his hands, and he flung spaghetti sauce on my face, and was cleaning it up. I can’t vouch for what he was thinking, but I’ll tell you what I was thinking, dammit. I was thinking that he was handsome, and nice, and kind, and everything I *should* want. And I was thinking that what it all boiled down to was that I *didn’t* want him…because…because…” His anger suddenly drained away, and he looked down at his shoes, realizing that nothing he could say would probably make a difference. “Oh, hell, never mind. It won’t matter to you anyway.”
"Because what?" David asked, starting to realize how both of them seemed to be unable to say everything they wanted to. As Craig looked up at him and their eyes met, David dropped the bag in his hand and against all of his better judgment, pulled Craig into his arms, kissing him passionately. When Craig gasped in shock, he thrust his tongue past smooth lips and kissed him deeply, all the while propelling them toward the door. At the last moment, his hand slid up to the back of Craig's head, cradling it, to keep him from banging it against the dark wood. David's body pressed against Craig's, and he felt heat surge through him as the other man's hands clutched at him. He didn't know what the hell he was doing. One minute they were arguing, and now...now he was kissing him senseless.
Craig’s eyes closed as David’s lips sealed over his own, and he felt himself being pushed against the door. He waited for his head to crash against the wall, but a gentle hand reached up to protect him, the simple gesture touching him in ways that no words ever could, in ways he couldn’t even begin to explain to himself. After the initial shock, Craig’s fingers wound in the lapels of the tuxedo jacket, somehow managing to pull David even closer than he already was. Both of their tongues vied for the upper hand, each trying to control the kiss, until, finally, Craig could no longer even think. His hands moved underneath David’s jacket to wind around his waist, and his soft moan was lost in the kiss as he simply clung to David, letting him explore at will, somehow knowing that he would be rewarded the same courtesy in moments. He could feel the firm planes and muscles of David’s body pressed solidly against him and he realized that his own body was moving shamelessly between the door and the man in his arms.
Feeling Craig's body moving against his own, David found that he couldn't think, every fiber of his body seemed to be vibrating with need. The normally cool office, felt almost stifling, and he realized suddenly how aroused he was. Thrusting his hips forward slightly he felt Craig's arousal press against him as well. Pulling back, after long moments, he drug in a deep breath, only to be pulled in again, Craig kissing him back with such need that he felt his heart skip in his chest. Never had anyone made him feel like this, *want* like this. David wrapped his arms tighter around Craig and let him kiss him back, feeling as if his entire body were on fire.
Craig left one arm around David’s waist, as the other trailed up his back, thinking he would give anything if that damn shirt could just disappear and he could know what it felt like to touch the smooth skin underneath. His tongue moved over every last inch of the inside of David’s mouth, loving the way he tasted, the way he *felt* in his arms, the way their bodies fit together so perfectly. He was breathless and aroused, his head spinning from lack of oxygen, but that didn’t seem to matter. All that mattered was being here in David’s arms, feeling their bodies moving together, and realizing that he was feeling the same driving need as Craig was. Only when he absolutely *had* to, he pulled away from the kiss, letting his head rest in the cradle of David’s hand and gazing breathlessly into blue eyes.
David was completely lost in deep blue eyes as Craig pulled away. Both of them were breathless, and each intake of breath seemed to push their bodies even closer together. Blinking a couple of times, David began to realize what happened, what *he* had initiated and stepped back. "I...I'm sorry. I...I should just go. I shouldn't have done that. We decided last week that we aren't right for each other. That Orlando fella sounds like he's perfect for you. Maybe I really should go...you deserve to be happy, Craig. After I'm gone you won't remember me...we...we just aren't *right* for each other, even if I want you more than I've ever wanted anyone in my life," he said regretfully. "I can still do the paperwork without actually *being* here if that's what you want. I can do them at home or something and send them over by courier if you really want me to go," he said unsure what to do or think. Stepping back he released him and felt as if a part of himself were being lost here. //It can't work. It can't. You are two very different people. No matter how attracted you are to him, it can't work.//
Craig wanted nothing more than to reach out to David, to pull him back into his arms, and renew their kiss. His brain tried to process everything that had happened in the last few minutes. //David’s here. He was jealous. He kissed me. He said he wants me more than he’s ever wanted anyone. And now he’s offering to leave.// Shaking his head to try and sort through everything, he knew only that he’d never forgive himself if he let David leave now. Just in case….just in case it could work. It probably wouldn’t, but…. He had to know for sure. “Please don’t go,” he said softly. “For the first time in my life, I honestly don’t give a damn about the paperwork. I don’t want Orlando. I never did. When I looked at him, all I could think about was how much I wanted you. I know we probably won’t work, but I can’t let you walk out that door unless I know for sure that there’s no chance. Judging from that kiss, I’d say neither of us can be one hundred percent certain of that. I know I can’t. Can you? Honestly?”
David looked down at the floor and shook his head, "No. I can't say for sure either...I don't know what to think," looking back up, he continued, "This has never happened to me before, Craig. No one has ever gotten to me the way you do, just standing here looking at you. God, I've just never wanted anyone this way and I'm honestly afraid of what that means. I...I don't *do* relationships, but I keep finding myself wanting more than just bending you over that desk which I can honestly say I *really* want to do," he said shaking his head and running his hands through his hair. He was at a loss. No one disarmed him like Craig did, from the first time he'd walked into this office all of his business training, everything he knew about getting what he wanted in a situation like that first day had flown out the window. He even *wanted* to understand Craig's views, even if they weren't what he agreed with.
Craig blinked at the mental image of David bending him over the desk and felt his arousal jerk behind the zipper of his jeans. Taking a deep, calming breath, he walked across the office and sat behind his desk, praying that David wouldn’t bolt out the door once he was out of the way. He didn’t. //So far, so good. But what the hell does he mean he doesn’t *do* relationships?// He gestured toward the chair, hoping David would just sit and talk to him, and maybe they could figure something out. Some way to just try, before writing each other off for good. “Sit, please?” he asked quietly. “Let’s just talk. Either with you sitting there, across the desk from me, or here next to me, so I can see your eyes, and tell you how I feel.”
David watched as Craig sat down and then nodded as he asked him to sit down. Moving around the desk to take his regular seat next to Craig he turned toward him. "All right," he said looking into Craig's eyes and wondering what he meant by tell him how he felt.
Craig stared at David for a moment, and sighed. David looked scared and frustrated and nervous all at the same time, and his normally light blue eyes looked dark and confused. “I didn’t kiss Orlando,” he said softly. “I want you to know that. He flirted with me, but I wasn’t interested in the least. And I was being honest when I said I didn’t just up and kiss people. You were the first person I’ve ever just lost control of myself with and kissed because I wanted to.”
David looked into Craig's eyes and nodded, feeling grateful somehow that he hadn't kissed Orlando even though he still had a twinge of jealousy just thinking of the younger man flirting with Craig. He wasn't used to that feeling at all and looked down. When Craig said he had wanted to kiss him he looked back up into dazzling blue eyes and smiled. "I...I felt that way earlier. It was against my better judgment but...I just couldn't resist you. This...this is pretty much uncharted territory for me, Craig. No one makes me nervous, or no one did...until I met you. You...I dunno what it is, but there is just something about you, something you do to me that I can't seem to figure out. I'm sorry that I got upset. Honestly that has *never* happened to me before. Like I said I don't *do* relationships...I've never gotten...well....jealous before and when I saw him touching you. I assumed too much and...I'm really sorry," he said softly. He was feeling completely out of his depth where normally he had full control of any situation. It was as if his entire world had turned over the moment he had met Craig.
Craig smiled and finally gave in, reaching over and curling his fingers around David’s hand. His heart was only now slowing down from their kiss, and he had to force himself to stay seated. He wanted nothing more than to crawl into David’s lap and curl around him, but he was afraid that would be too much too soon for both of them. Somewhere deep inside him, he was thrilled that David was jealous. “You don’t *do* relationships?” he repeated. “What exactly does that mean? Does it mean you don’t want to work beside me? That if I asked you out on…on a date, that you’d say no? Or that you honestly just want to leave, and never know what could have happened between us if you’d stayed? I’m not trying to pressure you, I’m not asking for any kind of commitment or promises, I’m just trying to understand.”
David shook his head. "I don't know, I just never have *had* a relationship really. The few times I have the other person said that I was too wrapped up in my work. I think I've dated someone for about two months tops...so it just never really *makes* it to the relationship stage. Just a few dates, and...that's about it. I'm not very good at that stuff I guess. I think the last person I dated said I was as romantic as a paperweight. Whatever the hell that means," he said softly.
Craig laughed and moved his chair just a bit closer. “Maybe you’ve just not met the right person,” he said softly. He couldn’t believe he was doing this….*saying* this. But if David walked out that door, Craig would know that he did everything he could to prevent it. “So, we’re both wrapped up in our jobs. I practically live at this place. We know that about each other. We know that we’re attracted to each other. That neither of us are in a relationship right now. That you and I have completely different views on what being homeless means. We know that you want to bend me over this desk, and I want to be bent over this desk by you, and then return the favor. Am I right so far?”
David laughed as Craig said the last and nodded, "Yeah, I think you've got it fairly well nailed down," he grinned. "So what now?" he asked, rubbing his thumb over the back of Craig's hand. Just that tiny connection to him, seemed to drive him crazy. Just being this close to him was a chore keeping his hands wrapped with Craig's and not simply dragging him into his arms again.
Craig stared down at their joined hands, and smiled. He could just imagine what it would feel like to have David’s entire body moving against him, hot and sweaty and breathless as……//Oh God. This isn’t going to be easy.// “How about you help me out here for a few hours, I call in Mirry to take over for the rest of the day, and then you and I go out for dinner? I’ve not been outside of this building in days now, and I’d love to just get away, and get to know you better. Of course, if you agree, you’ll have to seal it with another kiss, because I have to say, that was the most breathtaking, most amazing kiss I’ve ever had in my life, and I want more, just in case you decide you don’t like me after all after you go out with me. *IF* you go out with me.”
David smiled, "A date...that sounds good, especially that kiss part," he said shocked that Craig could even think he wouldn't want to go out with him. "I haven't actually had a date in a few months myself," he trailed off as he pulled Craig closer. "You pick the restaurant," he whispered as his lips pressed to Craig's again. Releasing his hands David wrapped one arm around Craig and the other moved up to tangle in soft dark hair. The same heat that had sparked between them before seemed to sizzle to life in seconds as the kiss deepened.
They kissed for long minutes, and Craig lost track of everything and everyone except the man in his arms. He licked and nibbled, explored and tasted, savoring the taste of David that he’d craved every moment since their first kiss, right here in this office, sitting exactly where they were sitting right now. Except for one thing…Without breaking the kiss, be moved over and crawled into David’s lap, settling in comfortably, and giving a content sigh. When they finally broke away and drew in deep breaths, David’s eyes were sparkling as brightly as Craig’s. Craig gently ran his fingers through soft red hair and smiled. “I swear, if that door was locked, I’d just bend over this desk right now and tell you to go for it,” he grinned.
David had smiled into the kiss as Craig settled in his lap, enjoying the feel of his body so close to his own. Then, when he drew away and spoke, David laughed softly and rested his forehead against Craig's. "Don't tempt me," he whispered. Leaning back, he looked into Craig's eyes and knew that this was all completely uncharted territory for him. He wanted Craig, yes, but more than that he realized that he cared about him, that he *liked* him, which was more than anything he'd felt for anyone else in his life. "Why don't we get started and then we can go to dinner? Anywhere you like...as long as I get to change clothes first, I think a tux is too dressy for more than most places," he grinned.
Craig pressed a final, soft kiss against David’s lips and moved back to his chair, sliding his legs under the desk so his arousal wouldn’t be quite to noticeable. “How about Angelo’s?” he asked, thinking that he hadn’t been to his favorite steak house in months. He really *did* need to get out of this place now and then. “My treat. But only if you move that chair a little closer so I can….um…help you with the paperwork?” His blush was back full force, which was ridiculous, considering the kiss they’d just shared, but it was there nevertheless.
"Angelo's sounds good to me," David smiled as Craig blushed and slid his chair closer. Purposefully leaning over to reach for a pen on Craig's side of the desk he pressed a soft kiss against his cheek as his fingers wrapped around the pen. It was a little silly but...for some reason he just couldn't resist the notion. Leaning back to start on the paperwork he began reading and smiled to himself as he realized Craig was watching him. After a few moments he asked a question about funding, and they settled into their work, though often stealing glances and even kisses once in a while. David had never felt like *this* before, and he decided he was starting to really enjoy the feeling, whatever it was.
~~~
TBC