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fellowshippers2006-01-06 06:24 pm
sairalinde.livejournal.com) wrote in fellowshippers2006-01-06 06:24 pm
Title: Honor Bound Chapter 4/?
Title: Honor Bound Chapter 4/?
Authors:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
sairalinde & anorienbean
Rating: NC-17
Pairing: David Wenham/Craig Parker
Disclaimer: No money was made from this fic, and we do not mean to imply anything about the sexual preferences of anyone mentioned within.
Summary: A knight in the King's service, attacked by thieves and lost in the forest in the dead of winter, finds himself on the doorstep of a kind farmer who takes him in and cares for him. Falling in love with his savior, the knight is bound by an oath taken years ago against his better judgment.
David had finished remaking the bed and had pulled the tub close to the fireplace. He gathered the best towels he owned as well as a nightshirt and a robe for Craig. Setting a small stool beside the tub, he set a cake of soap on it and some chamomile for the water to help soothe his chest. Finally, he returned to the other room and offered Craig a smile as he set to work carrying the water from the fireplace to the tub. Soon he was done and added the chamomile and then added cooler water to make sure it wasn't too hot. Returning to the other room he stopped beside Craig. "I'll help you up," he said softly.
Craig reached up and gently laid his hand on David’s arm, his fingers automatically curling over firm muscles and warm skin. Closing his eyes for the briefest of moments, he allowed himself to simply enjoy touching the man that stirred in him the deepest, most intense attraction he’d ever known. He stood slowly; cursing the illness that had made him so weak, but was strangely thankful for it as well, for it had brought him here, to David. Even if it was only temporary, and even if nothing could come of it, now he at least knew that there were greater, deeper feelings, stronger urges, and infinite possibilities if only he’d had the opportunity to explore them. And explore them he would have, but for a promise made long ago.
David tried to force the feelings away that Craig's touch brought. He knew now for certain that Craig's heart belonged to someone else, and what little chance there was of anything more between them was not to be. David would simply have to battle with his feelings, and try not to embarrass himself. He led Craig back to the bedroom and stood with him for a moment. "I...I'll be right out in the other room if you need me," he said softly. He didn't want to make Craig uncomfortable, but mostly he didn't think he could handle seeing him undressed again. Before, when Craig was unconscious was one thing, but...with him awake, and able to see David's face, he wasn't sure if he could mask how he felt.
Fighting his first instinct to tell David that he didn’t *have* to leave, seeing as how it was his house after all, Craig bit his bottom lip and nodded. “Thank you,” he smiled. //It’s not like he’d *want* to stay anyway.// He waited for David to leave the room, telling himself that it was for the best, and sighed so deeply that he almost started coughing again. Carefully climbing into the tub, he leaned back; amazed at how the simple act of undressing and maneuvering himself into the warm water had exhausted him. The scent of chamomile soothed him, making it easier to breathe, and he smiled, thinking that David was the most thoughtful person he’d ever met. Realizing that what little strength he had gathered was almost gone already, he reached for the bar of soap and began cleaning himself, and forcing himself *not* to picture David as he cleaned the semi-hard arousal that lay against his lower stomach.
David had returned Craig's smile and let himself out of the room. "If you need anything just call," he said as he closed the door. He stood awkwardly for a moment just outside the bedroom door and then moved around the room putting a few things away and listening for Craig should he need him. He found himself staring out of the window as he thought about the man in the other room. David closed his eyes for a moment and thought about the lean, powerful body that had been wrapped around him in sleep. //Stop thinking of him that way. He has someone in St. Albans, he doesn't want you. Even if he were free, what would he want with a peasant farmer who barely scrapes out a meager living?// He had nothing to offer him...except love. That was the only thing David had at all to offer, his love, and devotion to a man he hardly knew. He knew *that* wasn't enough. Besides how did he even know it was love? He'd never known it before...but every time he looked into Craig's eyes, he'd felt as if everything in the world was right. He sighed and opened his eyes and watched the snow continue to fall outside.
As soon as Craig’s lower body was cleaned, he leaned back against the edge of the tub, his breath rasping again from the physical exertion. He wanted, more than anything right now, to simply wrap his fist around his arousal and dream that he was making love to the man in the next room. He *knew* he should be thinking about Karl, but at this moment, he also knew that, without the slightest doubt, the only thing he’d ever felt for the man who’d been his best friend for most of his life was a deep affection, bound by years of camaraderie. //I wish I were free, David. God, you have no idea how much I wish that.// With another deep sigh, he sat back up, and began coughing again at once, doubling over and clutching at his chest, which was painfully sore from days of deep coughs and not enough air.
David startled from his thoughts as he heard Craig coughing. Deep wracking coughs that he knew had to be horribly painful. Not even considering the fact Craig hadn't called for him, he rushed into the other room to find Craig leaning over in the tub clutching at his chest. He rushed over to the tub and dropped to his knees beside it gently rubbing Craig's back. "Do you need me to get you something? Maybe some of the tea would help?" he asked worriedly.
Craig’s fingers closed on David’s shoulders and he clutched at him as he struggled for breath. When the coughing finally ceased, he realized he’d managed to crawl up on his knees as he leaned against the edge of the tub, and David was now right in front of him, looking anxious and concerned, even as he soothingly rubbed small circles over his back. Without thinking, he rested his forehead against David’s shoulder and willed himself to simply relax and breathe. After a few moments, he looked up gratefully and shook his head. “I’m fine now,” he whispered hoarsely. “I just couldn’t quit coughing. Thanks for…being here again.” Realizing one of his hands was still on David’s shoulder; Craig sat back in the tub and gave the redhead a tired smile. “I’m fine…really.”
David felt warm water soaking through his shirt to his skin almost drawing a shiver from him as Craig held onto him. When he leaned his head against David's shoulder he couldn't help himself, he rested his chin against the top of Craig's head and continued rubbing his back gently. As Craig spoke and pulled away, David sighed softly and frowned. "You didn't seem fine," he whispered. "You...you look tired. Maybe this bath was a bad idea," he said feeling that he may have pushed Craig to do too much too soon. "Do...would you like me to help you?" he asked timidly.
“I…” Craig’s voice trailed off as his face, already red from coughing, got even redder. “The bath was a good idea….I really needed it. Especially since I asked you to sleep with me again…um…I mean, to stay with me in case I had another….another nightmare. Like I did last night. And…” //Tired of protecting the king? Trying out for the role of the court jester now?// Closing his eyes and berating himself, he took a cautious breath and met David’s gaze. “Anyway…I hate to ask you to do anything else for me, but I’m exhausted. I just need to wash my hair and back, and get the remnants of this salve off my chest...it seems to be sticking to me. I just…well, I feel strange asking for help. It’s not something I do often, but I am much weaker than I thought.”
David felt his mouth go a bit dry when he realized that Craig did actually want his help. He swallowed hard and nodded. "It's all right, I don't mind helping...just...umm, I guess....chest first?" he asked feeling his face flush. He had never actually bathed another person, and certainly not someone who made him feel the way Craig did. He tried to ignore the heat that seemed to rush through his veins as Craig sat back and looked at him gratefully. David rolled up his sleeves and reached out with a trembling hand to take the soap from the side of the tub. He scooted closer and tried to keep his eyes fixed on Craig's chest and nothing more. His fingers trembled as he wet the soap and his hands then began rubbing the slick soap across Craig's muscled chest.
Craig leaned his head back against the edge of the tub. //This is not cheating. This is *not* cheating. This *is not* cheating. Enjoying his touch is *not* the same as sleeping with him…though I have a feeling I’d never sleep with David…I think we would make love. This, though, is *not* cheating. He’s simply helping me, and I’m sick. And weak. And tired.// As gentle hands moved over his chest, Craig’s arousal began to harden completely, and he sank a bit lower in the cooling water, hoping David wouldn’t notice. Still, he got harder, and it seemed as if all the blood in his body rushed down to his groin. Grabbing the edges of the tub, he forced himself to sit up straight and moved his hands unobtrusively to cover himself. “I…umm….thank you, David,” he murmured. “I…think all the salve’s gone. I….yes, well,….thank you.”
David carefully rinsed the soap from Craig's chest and looked up at him, noticing that his eyes looked much darker than they normally did. He smiled kindly and nodded, "If you'll just lean forward a bit I'll wash your back then," he whispered softly. He was extremely grateful that his shirt was quite long and very loose. As his hands had moved over the smooth warm skin he had become almost painfully aroused and hoped that Craig would not notice. When Craig leaned forward, David moved behind him and used the soap to lather his hands. Moving his hands across his shoulders and back in slow broad strokes David tried to focus on something other than the magnificent body under his hands. "I must say I'm getting quite an education in caretaking with you here," he said trying to make conversation.
“You act as if you’ve been doing this for years,” Craig smiled. If knights purred, he decided, he’d definitely be doing that right now. David’s hands were so soothing and sure, he was feeling better and more relaxed by the moment. He wondered if there was a wife or lover hidden around somewhere that had taught David how to care for the sick or injured. He’d said he was lonely, but maybe his mate had died or was away working or visiting family? Somehow, the very idea that David belong to someone else made his chest feel tight again and his eyes water. //You have no right to think that. No right at all.//“Where did you learn all this anyway? The herbs and chamomile baths and the salve you made up last night? I was beginning to think you were a doctor, instead of a farmer.”
David laughed, "I read a lot, but also from my friend Hugo. He grows healing herbs and whenever I would go to take him vegetables, or eggs, he would tell me how they could be used. I never thought I'd actually use the information; I just so rarely have anyone to talk to, that I enjoyed just listening to him go on about them. My father died when I was sixteen and I've been running the farm on my own since then. It's so rare for me to even see another person, let alone talk to them. I counted once that I went one hundred and forty three days without speaking to or seeing another person. That's why I said I was lonely. The best conversation I normally can hope to have is with Tengar my cat," he said smiling as he rinsed Craig's back.
Craig swallowed the lump in his throat, thinking that he’d give anything, anything at all, to make sure David was never lonely again. Sighing softly as the now tepid water rinsed over his back, he turned and looked into sparkling blue eyes. //Is this Hugo more than a friend? If he isn’t, do you wish him to be?// Knowing he had no right to ask *that*, he smiled and ran his fingers through his hair. “Do you like farming?” he asked. “I mean…do you like living out here, being so isolated and far from everyone?”
David was slightly surprised by the question. No one had ever really asked him before. "I don't know. Don't really have much of a choice," he shrugged. "I like the animals...but I do dislike being so far from anything. I didn't even know about the birth of the king’s grandson until the child was almost a year old. I only found out because I went into Oxmoor to trade and to buy some books. One of the shopkeepers told me. I remember feeling as if I lived in a cave rather than on a farm," he grinned. "But...it's my life. I know nothing else. I was born in this house, and most likely I'll die in it, //alone.// David looked down for a moment and sighed. "Let's get your hair before the water gets cold," he said leaning over and grabbing a clay pitcher for rinsing Craig's hair.
“You would love life at the castle,” Craig smiled, tilting his head back and closing his eyes.. “He has every animal imaginable in huge, fenced in areas on the eastern side of the castle. And a library large enough to lose yourself in for decades…it’s one of my favorite places in the world. The king is good, and kind, and everyone who serves him is happy and friendly. Maybe one day I can……I mean…maybe one day you will see if for yourself.”
"Maybe," David whispered not believing for a moment that he would. "Lean back a bit," he asked softly. As Craig leaned back David carefully poured water from the pitcher over his dark hair and then began washing it gently. He found his arousal growing even more as his fingers threaded through the dark hair and tried not to look at Craig's body, barely hidden within the now cloudy water. //So beautiful.// He closed his eyes for a moment and his hands stilled as he lost himself in the feeling of simply touching Craig. After a moment, he shook himself and began washing him again feeling silly for letting his mind wander. //He has someone else, David. Stop thinking about something you can never have...something you've never had to begin with.// Taking a deep breath he shifted slightly trying to alleviate the pressure against the laces of his breeches.
Craig’s body, with the exception of his arousal, relaxed completely. Said arousal had plenty of ideas of how to spend the rest of it’s bath, and each of them would involve a very wet, very naked David. The traitorous organ began to grow heavier and thicker, despite the cooling water, and Craig tried to think of *anything* other than the soft hands running through his hair. His fingers curled underneath the water, positively itching to wrap around his aching cock, and his entire body shivered. Staring at the wall on the opposite side of the room, he thought of snow and rain and frozen ponds…all of which dissolved in to visions of being curled up with David, keeping each other warm as millions of snowflakes drifted around them, or making love in the pouring rain, or sitting beside the icy water, sharing soft kisses and tender, featherlike touches.
David felt Craig shiver and worried that he was taking too long. Drawing his hands away, he quickly set about rinsing Craig's hair, washing all of the soap away. "You're getting cold," he said softly, " I think that about does it...do...um, can you...will you be able to get out on your own or...if. I can stand with my back to you if you need to hold onto me," he managed to stammer out. "I...don't want to invade your privacy," he offered lamely and frowned.
Craig looked down at his rather prominent arousal, which had currently decided to nudge it’s head out of the water and quickly leaned forward again, drawing his knees up to his chest. He thought about simply taking care of the problem as soon as David left the room, but knew David would be returning to empty the water, and finding evidence of his release would be beyond embarrassing…especially if he knew what Craig would be thinking of *while* he found that release. “I…I think I can manage,” he said softly. “I’ll dry off and then….maybe you can help me back to….the chair next to the fire or….the bed or….something?”
David almost sighed in relief and handed Craig a towel. "I'll be right outside if you need me," he said softly and walked to the door. Quickly he stepped into the other room and leaned against the door. //God that was the most difficult thing I think I've ever done in my life.// His hands were trembling again and he felt more than a little bit foolish. He tried to ignore the arousal that was still pressing against his breeches including the cooling wet spot forming there. He was nearly tempted to find some reason to go out and lay down in the snow to see if that helped...or go somewhere, the barn or storage shed and find some relief but Craig could need him and he wouldn't be there to hear him call. He stood pressed against the door for a few minutes just trying to focus his mind on something, anything besides Craig's amazing body, wet and slick with soap and so warm under his hands.
Standing on still-unsteady legs, Craig quickly dried himself off and stepped cautiously out of the tub. Trying to move slowly so as not to start coughing again, he leaned against the wall and dressed. Even with his best efforts, he was breathless and warm when he’d finished and looked from the bed to the bedroom door, where he knew David awaited on the other side. He was tired, but not overly so, and certainly not enough to miss out on spending some time with his host….who just happened to be desirable and kind and gentle and….//You’re hopeless! Just go talk to him for a while. He said he was lonely…he might just want someone to talk to, and you’ve done nothing but lie in bed for three days!// He crossed weakly over to the door and grabbed the handle. “Mind if I join you in here for a while?” he asked as he pulled the door open.
David was lost in thought as he leaned against the door and didn't hear Craig's voice until it was too late. The door swung open and he lost his balance falling backwards into Craig. He grabbed the door to keep from toppling them both to the floor as Craig's arms wrapped around him, in an effort to keep David from falling and probably to keep himself from falling as well. "Oh God....so sorry," David gasped as he turned still within the circle of Craig's arms and found that all other words fled his mind as he stared into the startled blue eyes before him. They stood like that, locked in one another's arms for a few moments before David finally pulled away. "I'm so sorry, I didn't hear you coming," he said sheepishly.
One minute, Craig was opening the bedroom door, and the next; he had his arms full of David. He automatically wound his arms around the other man’s body, doing his best to steady them both, and found that his mouth was suddenly dry and his stomach felt as if a million butterflies had been set free inside it. His first instinct was to laugh, and try to cover his embarrassment, but then David turned in his arms, and their eyes met, and Craig had a hard time remembering anything or anyone else had ever existed. As soon as David pulled away, Craig’s arms dropped to his sides, suddenly feeling empty, and he gave a weak smile. “It’s all right….I kind of burst through the door all of a sudden,” he said softly. “Are…are you…did I hurt you?”
"No....no, not at all. Did I hurt you?" David asked more concerned about Craig than himself. It had for a brief moment felt perfect, as if being in Craig's arms was what he was meant for in life. Staring at Craig for a moment he finally smiled. "I guess I shouldn't lean against doors," he mused. "Do you need a hand?" he asked wondering if Craig needed help to the chair in front of the fire. Silently he hoped that he did, just to be near him again.
Craig started to try and make it to the chair by himself, but figured that he was still too weak…why take the chance? “I’m fine,” he said, looking everywhere but at David. //More than fine now. Did you notice how comfortably you fit into my arms? And did you know that I wish I didn’t have to let you go? And, by the way, if I had waited one more second to catch you, you would have felt just how you affect me?// “I…I think I could use a hand to steady me,” he agreed. “I’m still a little weak.”
David nodded, though Craig had seemed anything but weak when his arms had circled around him. "All right," David smiled and stepped beside Craig, offering his arm. "Did the bath help any?" he asked as they made their way to the chair in front of the fire. Once there, he helped Craig take a seat and then retrieved the quilt from earlier and lay it over his lap. He didn't want to repeat embarrassing himself as he had that morning, so he stepped back instead of tucking the quilt around him. "You can keep me company while I get dinner started," he said softly as he placed another log on the fire.
Craig wistfully remembered David tucking the blanket around him so gently earlier and looked back at the fire. “I can at least help you cut vegetables or…something,” he offered, feeling completely useless. “I hate that you’re having to do *everything* for me. I promise I’ll make it up to you when I’m stronger, though.”
David shook his head, "You don't have to, Craig. I would have to cook for myself anyway...and...I like having someone to take care of," he admitted looking down. "If you like," he said pulling down a large bowl, "You can peel a few potatoes for me," he said setting the bowl in Craig's lap and handing him a knife. "I honestly hate peeling potatoes," he grinned, "So you are helping a great deal."
Craig laughed and set to peeling the potatoes in front of him, finally glad to be able to do *something*. “I’m glad I can help then,” he grinned, not giving voice to the thought that he loved having David take care of him. They talked long into the afternoon, sharing stories and laughter, and learning more about each other with every passing hour. Both men carefully avoided mention of their love lives, and stuck to safer subjects, such as their mutual love of books, their families and their daily lives. When darkness finally surrounded the small house, their stomachs were full and even though Craig was tired, he reveled in every single moment he spent in David’s company, and hated to see the day come to an end.
~~~
TBC
Authors:
sairalinde & anorienbeanRating: NC-17
Pairing: David Wenham/Craig Parker
Disclaimer: No money was made from this fic, and we do not mean to imply anything about the sexual preferences of anyone mentioned within.
Summary: A knight in the King's service, attacked by thieves and lost in the forest in the dead of winter, finds himself on the doorstep of a kind farmer who takes him in and cares for him. Falling in love with his savior, the knight is bound by an oath taken years ago against his better judgment.
David had finished remaking the bed and had pulled the tub close to the fireplace. He gathered the best towels he owned as well as a nightshirt and a robe for Craig. Setting a small stool beside the tub, he set a cake of soap on it and some chamomile for the water to help soothe his chest. Finally, he returned to the other room and offered Craig a smile as he set to work carrying the water from the fireplace to the tub. Soon he was done and added the chamomile and then added cooler water to make sure it wasn't too hot. Returning to the other room he stopped beside Craig. "I'll help you up," he said softly.
Craig reached up and gently laid his hand on David’s arm, his fingers automatically curling over firm muscles and warm skin. Closing his eyes for the briefest of moments, he allowed himself to simply enjoy touching the man that stirred in him the deepest, most intense attraction he’d ever known. He stood slowly; cursing the illness that had made him so weak, but was strangely thankful for it as well, for it had brought him here, to David. Even if it was only temporary, and even if nothing could come of it, now he at least knew that there were greater, deeper feelings, stronger urges, and infinite possibilities if only he’d had the opportunity to explore them. And explore them he would have, but for a promise made long ago.
David tried to force the feelings away that Craig's touch brought. He knew now for certain that Craig's heart belonged to someone else, and what little chance there was of anything more between them was not to be. David would simply have to battle with his feelings, and try not to embarrass himself. He led Craig back to the bedroom and stood with him for a moment. "I...I'll be right out in the other room if you need me," he said softly. He didn't want to make Craig uncomfortable, but mostly he didn't think he could handle seeing him undressed again. Before, when Craig was unconscious was one thing, but...with him awake, and able to see David's face, he wasn't sure if he could mask how he felt.
Fighting his first instinct to tell David that he didn’t *have* to leave, seeing as how it was his house after all, Craig bit his bottom lip and nodded. “Thank you,” he smiled. //It’s not like he’d *want* to stay anyway.// He waited for David to leave the room, telling himself that it was for the best, and sighed so deeply that he almost started coughing again. Carefully climbing into the tub, he leaned back; amazed at how the simple act of undressing and maneuvering himself into the warm water had exhausted him. The scent of chamomile soothed him, making it easier to breathe, and he smiled, thinking that David was the most thoughtful person he’d ever met. Realizing that what little strength he had gathered was almost gone already, he reached for the bar of soap and began cleaning himself, and forcing himself *not* to picture David as he cleaned the semi-hard arousal that lay against his lower stomach.
David had returned Craig's smile and let himself out of the room. "If you need anything just call," he said as he closed the door. He stood awkwardly for a moment just outside the bedroom door and then moved around the room putting a few things away and listening for Craig should he need him. He found himself staring out of the window as he thought about the man in the other room. David closed his eyes for a moment and thought about the lean, powerful body that had been wrapped around him in sleep. //Stop thinking of him that way. He has someone in St. Albans, he doesn't want you. Even if he were free, what would he want with a peasant farmer who barely scrapes out a meager living?// He had nothing to offer him...except love. That was the only thing David had at all to offer, his love, and devotion to a man he hardly knew. He knew *that* wasn't enough. Besides how did he even know it was love? He'd never known it before...but every time he looked into Craig's eyes, he'd felt as if everything in the world was right. He sighed and opened his eyes and watched the snow continue to fall outside.
As soon as Craig’s lower body was cleaned, he leaned back against the edge of the tub, his breath rasping again from the physical exertion. He wanted, more than anything right now, to simply wrap his fist around his arousal and dream that he was making love to the man in the next room. He *knew* he should be thinking about Karl, but at this moment, he also knew that, without the slightest doubt, the only thing he’d ever felt for the man who’d been his best friend for most of his life was a deep affection, bound by years of camaraderie. //I wish I were free, David. God, you have no idea how much I wish that.// With another deep sigh, he sat back up, and began coughing again at once, doubling over and clutching at his chest, which was painfully sore from days of deep coughs and not enough air.
David startled from his thoughts as he heard Craig coughing. Deep wracking coughs that he knew had to be horribly painful. Not even considering the fact Craig hadn't called for him, he rushed into the other room to find Craig leaning over in the tub clutching at his chest. He rushed over to the tub and dropped to his knees beside it gently rubbing Craig's back. "Do you need me to get you something? Maybe some of the tea would help?" he asked worriedly.
Craig’s fingers closed on David’s shoulders and he clutched at him as he struggled for breath. When the coughing finally ceased, he realized he’d managed to crawl up on his knees as he leaned against the edge of the tub, and David was now right in front of him, looking anxious and concerned, even as he soothingly rubbed small circles over his back. Without thinking, he rested his forehead against David’s shoulder and willed himself to simply relax and breathe. After a few moments, he looked up gratefully and shook his head. “I’m fine now,” he whispered hoarsely. “I just couldn’t quit coughing. Thanks for…being here again.” Realizing one of his hands was still on David’s shoulder; Craig sat back in the tub and gave the redhead a tired smile. “I’m fine…really.”
David felt warm water soaking through his shirt to his skin almost drawing a shiver from him as Craig held onto him. When he leaned his head against David's shoulder he couldn't help himself, he rested his chin against the top of Craig's head and continued rubbing his back gently. As Craig spoke and pulled away, David sighed softly and frowned. "You didn't seem fine," he whispered. "You...you look tired. Maybe this bath was a bad idea," he said feeling that he may have pushed Craig to do too much too soon. "Do...would you like me to help you?" he asked timidly.
“I…” Craig’s voice trailed off as his face, already red from coughing, got even redder. “The bath was a good idea….I really needed it. Especially since I asked you to sleep with me again…um…I mean, to stay with me in case I had another….another nightmare. Like I did last night. And…” //Tired of protecting the king? Trying out for the role of the court jester now?// Closing his eyes and berating himself, he took a cautious breath and met David’s gaze. “Anyway…I hate to ask you to do anything else for me, but I’m exhausted. I just need to wash my hair and back, and get the remnants of this salve off my chest...it seems to be sticking to me. I just…well, I feel strange asking for help. It’s not something I do often, but I am much weaker than I thought.”
David felt his mouth go a bit dry when he realized that Craig did actually want his help. He swallowed hard and nodded. "It's all right, I don't mind helping...just...umm, I guess....chest first?" he asked feeling his face flush. He had never actually bathed another person, and certainly not someone who made him feel the way Craig did. He tried to ignore the heat that seemed to rush through his veins as Craig sat back and looked at him gratefully. David rolled up his sleeves and reached out with a trembling hand to take the soap from the side of the tub. He scooted closer and tried to keep his eyes fixed on Craig's chest and nothing more. His fingers trembled as he wet the soap and his hands then began rubbing the slick soap across Craig's muscled chest.
Craig leaned his head back against the edge of the tub. //This is not cheating. This is *not* cheating. This *is not* cheating. Enjoying his touch is *not* the same as sleeping with him…though I have a feeling I’d never sleep with David…I think we would make love. This, though, is *not* cheating. He’s simply helping me, and I’m sick. And weak. And tired.// As gentle hands moved over his chest, Craig’s arousal began to harden completely, and he sank a bit lower in the cooling water, hoping David wouldn’t notice. Still, he got harder, and it seemed as if all the blood in his body rushed down to his groin. Grabbing the edges of the tub, he forced himself to sit up straight and moved his hands unobtrusively to cover himself. “I…umm….thank you, David,” he murmured. “I…think all the salve’s gone. I….yes, well,….thank you.”
David carefully rinsed the soap from Craig's chest and looked up at him, noticing that his eyes looked much darker than they normally did. He smiled kindly and nodded, "If you'll just lean forward a bit I'll wash your back then," he whispered softly. He was extremely grateful that his shirt was quite long and very loose. As his hands had moved over the smooth warm skin he had become almost painfully aroused and hoped that Craig would not notice. When Craig leaned forward, David moved behind him and used the soap to lather his hands. Moving his hands across his shoulders and back in slow broad strokes David tried to focus on something other than the magnificent body under his hands. "I must say I'm getting quite an education in caretaking with you here," he said trying to make conversation.
“You act as if you’ve been doing this for years,” Craig smiled. If knights purred, he decided, he’d definitely be doing that right now. David’s hands were so soothing and sure, he was feeling better and more relaxed by the moment. He wondered if there was a wife or lover hidden around somewhere that had taught David how to care for the sick or injured. He’d said he was lonely, but maybe his mate had died or was away working or visiting family? Somehow, the very idea that David belong to someone else made his chest feel tight again and his eyes water. //You have no right to think that. No right at all.//“Where did you learn all this anyway? The herbs and chamomile baths and the salve you made up last night? I was beginning to think you were a doctor, instead of a farmer.”
David laughed, "I read a lot, but also from my friend Hugo. He grows healing herbs and whenever I would go to take him vegetables, or eggs, he would tell me how they could be used. I never thought I'd actually use the information; I just so rarely have anyone to talk to, that I enjoyed just listening to him go on about them. My father died when I was sixteen and I've been running the farm on my own since then. It's so rare for me to even see another person, let alone talk to them. I counted once that I went one hundred and forty three days without speaking to or seeing another person. That's why I said I was lonely. The best conversation I normally can hope to have is with Tengar my cat," he said smiling as he rinsed Craig's back.
Craig swallowed the lump in his throat, thinking that he’d give anything, anything at all, to make sure David was never lonely again. Sighing softly as the now tepid water rinsed over his back, he turned and looked into sparkling blue eyes. //Is this Hugo more than a friend? If he isn’t, do you wish him to be?// Knowing he had no right to ask *that*, he smiled and ran his fingers through his hair. “Do you like farming?” he asked. “I mean…do you like living out here, being so isolated and far from everyone?”
David was slightly surprised by the question. No one had ever really asked him before. "I don't know. Don't really have much of a choice," he shrugged. "I like the animals...but I do dislike being so far from anything. I didn't even know about the birth of the king’s grandson until the child was almost a year old. I only found out because I went into Oxmoor to trade and to buy some books. One of the shopkeepers told me. I remember feeling as if I lived in a cave rather than on a farm," he grinned. "But...it's my life. I know nothing else. I was born in this house, and most likely I'll die in it, //alone.// David looked down for a moment and sighed. "Let's get your hair before the water gets cold," he said leaning over and grabbing a clay pitcher for rinsing Craig's hair.
“You would love life at the castle,” Craig smiled, tilting his head back and closing his eyes.. “He has every animal imaginable in huge, fenced in areas on the eastern side of the castle. And a library large enough to lose yourself in for decades…it’s one of my favorite places in the world. The king is good, and kind, and everyone who serves him is happy and friendly. Maybe one day I can……I mean…maybe one day you will see if for yourself.”
"Maybe," David whispered not believing for a moment that he would. "Lean back a bit," he asked softly. As Craig leaned back David carefully poured water from the pitcher over his dark hair and then began washing it gently. He found his arousal growing even more as his fingers threaded through the dark hair and tried not to look at Craig's body, barely hidden within the now cloudy water. //So beautiful.// He closed his eyes for a moment and his hands stilled as he lost himself in the feeling of simply touching Craig. After a moment, he shook himself and began washing him again feeling silly for letting his mind wander. //He has someone else, David. Stop thinking about something you can never have...something you've never had to begin with.// Taking a deep breath he shifted slightly trying to alleviate the pressure against the laces of his breeches.
Craig’s body, with the exception of his arousal, relaxed completely. Said arousal had plenty of ideas of how to spend the rest of it’s bath, and each of them would involve a very wet, very naked David. The traitorous organ began to grow heavier and thicker, despite the cooling water, and Craig tried to think of *anything* other than the soft hands running through his hair. His fingers curled underneath the water, positively itching to wrap around his aching cock, and his entire body shivered. Staring at the wall on the opposite side of the room, he thought of snow and rain and frozen ponds…all of which dissolved in to visions of being curled up with David, keeping each other warm as millions of snowflakes drifted around them, or making love in the pouring rain, or sitting beside the icy water, sharing soft kisses and tender, featherlike touches.
David felt Craig shiver and worried that he was taking too long. Drawing his hands away, he quickly set about rinsing Craig's hair, washing all of the soap away. "You're getting cold," he said softly, " I think that about does it...do...um, can you...will you be able to get out on your own or...if. I can stand with my back to you if you need to hold onto me," he managed to stammer out. "I...don't want to invade your privacy," he offered lamely and frowned.
Craig looked down at his rather prominent arousal, which had currently decided to nudge it’s head out of the water and quickly leaned forward again, drawing his knees up to his chest. He thought about simply taking care of the problem as soon as David left the room, but knew David would be returning to empty the water, and finding evidence of his release would be beyond embarrassing…especially if he knew what Craig would be thinking of *while* he found that release. “I…I think I can manage,” he said softly. “I’ll dry off and then….maybe you can help me back to….the chair next to the fire or….the bed or….something?”
David almost sighed in relief and handed Craig a towel. "I'll be right outside if you need me," he said softly and walked to the door. Quickly he stepped into the other room and leaned against the door. //God that was the most difficult thing I think I've ever done in my life.// His hands were trembling again and he felt more than a little bit foolish. He tried to ignore the arousal that was still pressing against his breeches including the cooling wet spot forming there. He was nearly tempted to find some reason to go out and lay down in the snow to see if that helped...or go somewhere, the barn or storage shed and find some relief but Craig could need him and he wouldn't be there to hear him call. He stood pressed against the door for a few minutes just trying to focus his mind on something, anything besides Craig's amazing body, wet and slick with soap and so warm under his hands.
Standing on still-unsteady legs, Craig quickly dried himself off and stepped cautiously out of the tub. Trying to move slowly so as not to start coughing again, he leaned against the wall and dressed. Even with his best efforts, he was breathless and warm when he’d finished and looked from the bed to the bedroom door, where he knew David awaited on the other side. He was tired, but not overly so, and certainly not enough to miss out on spending some time with his host….who just happened to be desirable and kind and gentle and….//You’re hopeless! Just go talk to him for a while. He said he was lonely…he might just want someone to talk to, and you’ve done nothing but lie in bed for three days!// He crossed weakly over to the door and grabbed the handle. “Mind if I join you in here for a while?” he asked as he pulled the door open.
David was lost in thought as he leaned against the door and didn't hear Craig's voice until it was too late. The door swung open and he lost his balance falling backwards into Craig. He grabbed the door to keep from toppling them both to the floor as Craig's arms wrapped around him, in an effort to keep David from falling and probably to keep himself from falling as well. "Oh God....so sorry," David gasped as he turned still within the circle of Craig's arms and found that all other words fled his mind as he stared into the startled blue eyes before him. They stood like that, locked in one another's arms for a few moments before David finally pulled away. "I'm so sorry, I didn't hear you coming," he said sheepishly.
One minute, Craig was opening the bedroom door, and the next; he had his arms full of David. He automatically wound his arms around the other man’s body, doing his best to steady them both, and found that his mouth was suddenly dry and his stomach felt as if a million butterflies had been set free inside it. His first instinct was to laugh, and try to cover his embarrassment, but then David turned in his arms, and their eyes met, and Craig had a hard time remembering anything or anyone else had ever existed. As soon as David pulled away, Craig’s arms dropped to his sides, suddenly feeling empty, and he gave a weak smile. “It’s all right….I kind of burst through the door all of a sudden,” he said softly. “Are…are you…did I hurt you?”
"No....no, not at all. Did I hurt you?" David asked more concerned about Craig than himself. It had for a brief moment felt perfect, as if being in Craig's arms was what he was meant for in life. Staring at Craig for a moment he finally smiled. "I guess I shouldn't lean against doors," he mused. "Do you need a hand?" he asked wondering if Craig needed help to the chair in front of the fire. Silently he hoped that he did, just to be near him again.
Craig started to try and make it to the chair by himself, but figured that he was still too weak…why take the chance? “I’m fine,” he said, looking everywhere but at David. //More than fine now. Did you notice how comfortably you fit into my arms? And did you know that I wish I didn’t have to let you go? And, by the way, if I had waited one more second to catch you, you would have felt just how you affect me?// “I…I think I could use a hand to steady me,” he agreed. “I’m still a little weak.”
David nodded, though Craig had seemed anything but weak when his arms had circled around him. "All right," David smiled and stepped beside Craig, offering his arm. "Did the bath help any?" he asked as they made their way to the chair in front of the fire. Once there, he helped Craig take a seat and then retrieved the quilt from earlier and lay it over his lap. He didn't want to repeat embarrassing himself as he had that morning, so he stepped back instead of tucking the quilt around him. "You can keep me company while I get dinner started," he said softly as he placed another log on the fire.
Craig wistfully remembered David tucking the blanket around him so gently earlier and looked back at the fire. “I can at least help you cut vegetables or…something,” he offered, feeling completely useless. “I hate that you’re having to do *everything* for me. I promise I’ll make it up to you when I’m stronger, though.”
David shook his head, "You don't have to, Craig. I would have to cook for myself anyway...and...I like having someone to take care of," he admitted looking down. "If you like," he said pulling down a large bowl, "You can peel a few potatoes for me," he said setting the bowl in Craig's lap and handing him a knife. "I honestly hate peeling potatoes," he grinned, "So you are helping a great deal."
Craig laughed and set to peeling the potatoes in front of him, finally glad to be able to do *something*. “I’m glad I can help then,” he grinned, not giving voice to the thought that he loved having David take care of him. They talked long into the afternoon, sharing stories and laughter, and learning more about each other with every passing hour. Both men carefully avoided mention of their love lives, and stuck to safer subjects, such as their mutual love of books, their families and their daily lives. When darkness finally surrounded the small house, their stomachs were full and even though Craig was tired, he reveled in every single moment he spent in David’s company, and hated to see the day come to an end.
~~~
TBC