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fellowshippers2006-01-07 04:12 am
akashaelfwitch.livejournal.com) wrote in fellowshippers2006-01-07 04:12 am
Frozen Embers 1/2 Vig/Orli NC-17
Okay...trying to post at other groups other than my own LJ...
*Very nervous*
Holiday fic
I hope you enjoy
dedicated to the wonderful and talented, Namarie
Frozen Embers
Part 1
By Akasha Elfwitch
For Namarie
Pairing: Viggo/Orlando
Rating: NC-17
Beta (s): Tularia, thank you xoxoxoxo
AU/ADULT
Warnings: AU, angst, implied character death, and one Virgin Orli
part 2 will post later today
Frozen Embers
Part 1
By Akasha Elfwitch
For Namarie
Pairing: Viggo/Orlando
Rating: NC-17
Beta (s): Tularia, thank you xoxoxoxo
AU/ADULT
Warnings: AU, angst, implied character death, and one Virgin Orli
Disclaimer: I do not claim to know these beautiful men. This is all made up in my mind, this never happened; I make no claim to know either actor’s sexual preference nor do I gain any profit from this endeavor. This is solely for entertainment purposes.
Feedback is appreciated akashaelfwitchvamp@comcast.net
Fanfiction: RPS
Synopsis: A Holiday tale based on the little Match Girl with a slashy twist.
Author’s Note: Based on the little Match Girl by H.C. Andersen
***
Victorian, London
Era late 1890’s
Orlando watched as the snowflakes continued to fall from the sky, a sad smile adorned his perfect lips. He had been unable to sell a single box of matches, which meant he would go hungry again this evening. Orli tried to ignore the hunger pangs he felt as he passed the shops that displayed their roasted hams and chickens. The aroma swarmed past him; he inhaled it hoping it would fill his empty belly. It had been so long since he had last eaten anything; he clutched at his growling stomach as he continued trudging through the snow.
Orli’s shoes were torn and offered little protection against the slush and snow; his tattered coat and scarf did not keep out the cold that embraced him so bitterly. He looked pitiful as he meekly asked the passerby’s if they would care to buy a box of matches.
Disheartened that this night proved to be uneventful, he slumped to the ground, tears burning in his eyes. He buried his head in his arms and wept softly, the snow falling off him as his shoulders shook from the onslaught of tears.
Orlando had no family to go home to and the tiny attic that was rented out to him proved no warmer than this street corner.
Holiday lights blinked red and green on every building sending a wave of melancholy throughout Orli’s slender frame. He could hear the carolers in the street, happily singing their holiday songs and children laughing as they passed by with their parents. Orlando had lost his parents in a fire when he was just a small child. He had never known the joy of Christmas or the warmth of family.
Orlando wiped his tears with the back of his hand and pulled at his fingerless gloves to try and warm up the rest of his hand. Perhaps if he were to light a match it would help to fight off the cold. There could be no harm in lighting just a single match, could there?
Orli pulled a single match out and stuck it against the building making a “scratch” sound as it ignited. Orlando placed his hand over the tiny flame, gathering as much warmth as he could before it sputtered out.
When it flickered out, Orli subconsciously lit another match and a vision of a warm fire and a table filled with holiday foods displayed before him. He reached out tentatively with his finger to try and touch the illusion, but as soon as the match went out, the image faded.
Orlando lit another match and this time the vision of a beautiful Christmas tree came into view. It was decorated in gold and silver and at the foot of the tree lay an abundance of gifts all wrapped in cheerful colors.
Orli smiled at the vision as tears streamed down his sooted face, was he dreaming? It mattered little at this point; it was so lovely to just look at, even if it was just an illusion. His smile faded as the match burnt out, taking the images with it.
Orlando found himself returned to the bitter cold. He stared off into the crowded street; as those more fortunate stepped over him as if he didn’t exist. How he wished his parents had not died when he was so young, how he wished he wasn’t so cold and hungry, how he wished there were someone on this forsaken earth that loved him. “Oh mother, how I wish you would have taken me with you…there is nothing for me here…”
Orlando lit another match and the vision of his mother danced before his eyes, “Take me with you…please…” he reached out to touch her and caress her hair. “What’s that? You will take me to a place where I will no longer suffer cold or hunger? Wait, don’t go mother…wait…don’t leave me…please…” but the image shimmered and faded as his last match burnt out.
Orlando fell into unconsciousness, his body no longer able to withstand the cruelty of the elements.
***
Viggo rushed over to the fallen body slumped against the building. “Please, let me through, I’m a doctor.” He pushed past the onlookers and felt for a pulse on the young man. Viggo could make out a distinct yet faint heartbeat under the pressure of his fingers.
The young man felt hot to the touch, he was burning with fever.
He would not last much longer out here in this cold.
“Is he dead?” asked a woman, huddling closer to her husband as if disgusted that someone had died on the street.
Viggo frowned over at the woman he could not believe how cold their hearts were; they all stood staring, but had done nothing to help the young man. He was appalled by their behavior. “No, he’s still alive.” He leaned over to pick up the fallen stranger. He had no idea who the young man was or what had happened to him, but he would take care of him regardless.
“Looks as if he was trying to warm himself,” offered one of the onlookers. Viggo glanced at the ground which was littered with matches.
“It would seem that way,” Viggo said as politely as he could. “You all have a Merry Christmas,” he added sarcastically.
The crowd parted for Viggo, some with their heads bowed in shame as he walked past them. Viggo carried the young man to his carriage, wrapping him up in blankets. “Take us home, Rhys. I need to get him someplace warm, make haste.” He closed the carriage door behind him and wrapped his arms around the unconscious stranger, attempting to keep him as warm as possible. Viggo only hoped that it was not too late.
***
Orlando’s eyes fluttered open and took in his strange surroundings. He found himself lying on a king size iron bed covered with a soft sheets and warm blankets. He sat up in alarm, where was he?
The bed did not squeak and the bedcover was embroidered and decorated with soft lace! Not like his bed made of straw and a filthy gray blanket that barely covered his lithe form.
Orli reached out to touch the foot of the bed. He had to make sure it was real. The scroll work of the iron bed post was decorated with a floral emblem that carefully matched the rose flowered wallpaper in the room. Behind the headboard was a curtain with a similar pattern that dressed the bed as a canopy. It added an elegance and feeling of welcome to the room.
The room was richly furnished with a cream colored chaise lounge chair at the far wall, covered with contrasting throw pillows and a few scattered books. There was an arm chair that matched the chaise chair that sat beside his bed along with a small table littered with stationery and an empty tea cup.
Fresh flowers decorated the matching iron vanity table that was positioned between the two small windows that lined the left side of the room. To his left, a large silver framed mirror adorned the wall. He leaned over a bit to look at his reflection; his cheeks shone the signs of health, his face was clean, his hair brushed…And those clothes? Where did they come from?
His fingers traced over the soft cotton nightshirt that covered his body. His brow furrowed in confusion. He did not own such a garment and worse yet, he panicked at the thought that someone *else* undressed and clothed him.
As if someone had read his thoughts, the door pushed open and a beautiful blonde woman entered. Her hair was done up elegantly and the clothes she wore were made from fine material. Her emerald green skirt swished under her feet as she approached him. She greeted him with a warm smile. “Oh! You’re finally awake!” she exclaimed in happy surprise, with a slight accent that Orli could not place. Was she American? “Brother will be pleased to see you are conscious. Are you hungry? Would you like me to bring you some food or hot tea?” she asked politely.
Orlando pulled the covers to his neck, feeling uncomfortable with the presence of the female in the room. He hoped *she* was not the one who had bathed and clothed him. He felt his cheeks burn from embarrassment. “Food would be lovely, thank you.” He replied meekly.
The woman continued to smile at the beautiful stranger. “I will have some brought straight away.” She paused before turning to exit the room. “If you don’t mind my asking, what is your name? Mine is Miranda and I welcome you to my brother’s house. Well, the house he is renting while he is visiting London, anyways.” She sighed as if her brother renting the house saddened her in some way.
“Name’s Orlando, Miss.”
“Mrs.” She corrected him in a friendly tone. “Mrs. Wenham, to be exact; my husband, David, and I have been assisting my brother with you in hopes that you would recover quickly.”
“What’s his name, ma’am if you don’t mind my asking?” Orli scratched his head, pushing his dark curls behind his ear. “And if you think it not too bold of me to ask, how did I get here? I fear I don’t remember…”
“Viggo is my brother’s name; most call him Doctor Mortensen. And he is one of the best medical doctors.” She answered proudly. “Vig practices mostly in our native homeland, Denmark…though I wish he would change his mind and stay here in London with us…oh well, what can I do?” she sighed again. “Anyways, Vig came here to visit my husband’s family and I for the holidays. He brought you here on Christmas Eve. You have been delirious with fever for a week; we have all been worried sick.” She brushed the hair out of his eyes like a mother would her child. “I will bring you some warm soup and hot tea. Won’t be but a moment.”
***
The door to Orlando’s room opened once more, but it wasn’t Miranda that entered. It was a tall, handsome man with sandy blonde hair. He blew the hair out of his face as he approached Orli. The man’s face seemed carved from an artist stone, it was finely chiseled and he sported a cleft in his chin, which Orli found rather attractive.
Orli bit his lower lip, trying not to stare at the gorgeous man that walked over to his bed. He wondered if this was Viggo, Miranda’s brother. If it were David, that meant he was married and most certainly unavailable.
What was Orli thinking? Just because it could be Viggo did not mean that the man would be interested in him. He desperately tried to push aside such lustful thoughts…they just were not appropriate.
Viggo carefully placed the tray full of food on Orlando’s lap, “How are you feeling?” He asked, leaning forward and feeling Orli’s forehead for any signs of a lingering fever. He was relieved to find that there was none.
Orli loved the feel of Viggo’s fingers on his cool skin, his fingers were soft and they brushed against him like silk. Viggo’s chest was so close to his lips all he had to do was lean over slightly and he could place a tender kiss over the woven fabric of Viggo’s vest. Viggo smelled divine, the mild scent of the after shave mixed with tobacco stirred awake desire in Orli.
Orli averted his eyes, he should not be thinking such thoughts, they were strictly forbidden and besides, the man probably had a beautiful wife and a handful of children waiting for him somewhere.
Orli tried to distract himself by inhaling the sweet scent of hot food. “You must be famished. I brought you a sample of all the foods the cook made this evening. I hope one of them is to your liking.”
Orlando’s eyes scanned the plates full of turkey, goose, ham, chicken, mashed potatoes, cranberries, steamed vegetables, and rolls of buttered bread. He did not know where to begin; he instinctively reached out for a roll first and devoured it hungrily, taking a large gulp of water to help it go down. He tore at a chicken leg next.
The man smiled appreciatively, “You *are* the hungry one, aren’t you?” he laughed good-naturedly, enjoying the scene of Orlando stuffing his mouth with food. “It’s good to see that you survived and that you have a healthy appetite. I feared the fever would claim you.” He added with sincere concern.
Orli wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, not noticing the worry that shone in the man’s eyes. “Are you Viggo? Err, Doctor Mortensen, I meant no disrespect.” he said between mouthfuls of ham and turkey.
“Indeed I am. And feel free to call me Viggo. I’m not one for formalities, I’m afraid.”
Orli smiled shyly at him and Viggo felt his heart swell, it was comforting to know that this beauty had survived from the clutches of death. He tried to carry on conversation, being a loner most of his life, he was unsure how to approach the young man. “I hope the room pleases you. I’m sorry that it’s a bit feminine, but it was the only room I had to spare.”
“I don’t mind it…lot better than the attic I sleep in.” Orli pressed his lips together thoughtfully, he mumbled mostly to himself. “Though I probably don’t have that anymore…” Orli looked back at Viggo, trying to sound neutral about the whole thing. “Your sister told me I have been here a week? Landlady must have thought I abandoned the place and rented it out to someone else…” he tried to shrug it off. “No matter, I can find another place.” He lied, turning his attention back on the honey glazed ham.
Viggo tried not to frown he knew that Orlando was lying for his benefit. He did not have the heart to send him back into the harsh cold after nursing him back to health the past week. “You could stay here, that is, if you like.” He asked suddenly unsure of himself.
Orli almost choked on his food. “I don’t think I can afford living here, sir…but thank you for the offer.”
“Who mentioned anything about paying rent?” Viggo asked. He looked at Orli, unsure as how to address his next question. “Tell me, are you educated?” Viggo hoped that did not come out as crass as it sounded.
Orli took another gulp of water, “Yes, sir. I’ve had some schooling.”
Viggo nodded in approval, “I would like to train you as my assistant. I would have a tutor come in and brush up your skills…” Viggo looked down at his hands, “You see, my sister wants me to open an office here in London, feels I am better suited for the city, I suppose. She doesn’t want me to return to Denmark…mostly because I don’t have a family of my own…she worries about me.”
“What would I need to do?” Orli asked suddenly interested. No family? A man in his position and social standing? Orlando bit back his tongue and tried not too sound too eager.
“I would need someone to help me put papers in order and help sort out appointments and such. But I want you to know that I only want you to accept it if you want to, no obligations or strings attached.”
“I know you are not obligating me, I would very much like to work for you Dr. Mortensen.”
“Viggo,” he corrected Orli, “Please call me Viggo.”
“Would that be proper? To call you by your first name if I’m to be working for you?”
“I told you I wasn’t much on formalities.”
Orlando sent Viggo another shy smile. “All right…Viggo….”
“One last thing, do you have a surname, Orlando?” Viggo asked as he sat in the arm chair beside the bed.
Orlando continued to smile as he inhaled down a mouthful of chicken, “Bloom.”
***
Orlando continued to feast on the food until none was left, leaving an astonished but grinning Viggo. “I can bring you more if you like…there are also pastries and sweets if you prefer?”
“No, I’m full.” Orli waved his hand. His dark eyes slowly took in the man sitting before him. Viggo’s hair fell into his eyes and he was always brushing it aside. Revealing eyes so blue that Orli was certain that the sky itself would be envious of their color.
Orlando shook his head, waving aside such impossible dreams. “I uh, wanted to thank you…for saving me from the cold and for the food…well, perhaps it best to just thank you for everything.” Orlando’s words seemed to stumble over themselves.
Viggo smiled warmly, “You’re welcome, Orlando…can I call you Orlando?”
Orlando looked over at Viggo with a flirty smile, “You saved me, you may call me whatever you wish.”
Viggo’s laughter filled the room and Orli found himself laughing along with Viggo, their merriment catching the attention of the others in the house. Miranda and David entered the room their arms interlocked with one another.
Miranda was dressed even more elegantly than she had been earlier that day. She wore a bright silver dress that sparkled from the tiny beads that were embroidered into the fabric. Her outfit was completed with matching choker and long black gloves that were covered with diamond bracelets.
David was dressed in a tuxedo, complete with white scarf and a red rose pinned to his lapel. “We came by to bid you both a goodnight and Merry New Year before heading off to the party.”
“Ah, yes.” Viggo nodded absently. “Have a good time.”
“I see he ate heartily.” Miranda noted as she made her way to clear the tray. “That is a good sign.”
“Devoured is more like it,” David winked over at Orlando. “My brother in law says that a healthy, sturdy appetite is a good sign of recovery.” He took the tray from his wife, shaking his head and placing the tray out of her reach when she protested.
Viggo smiled at the scene displayed before him. He was glad that his sister had married a good man like David. Theirs was a good marriage and Viggo was glad that David made Miranda happy. Viggo had no family of his own and he had missed her terribly once she had married and moved to London.
David’s voice broke Viggo from his thoughts. “Miri and I are off to the party. We will see you tomorrow afternoon for tea?”
“Yes, see you tomorrow.” Viggo stood up and hugged his brother in law and his sister goodbye. “Don’t worry about me, just have a good time at the party.” He playfully tapped her nose.
“You sure you won’t change your mind and at least stop by?” she asked with a small pout.
“No can do, Miri. Orlando is awake now and it would be rude to leave him alone. Especially tonight. And I won’t risk dressing him and sending him out into the frigid night air and have him get ill again. He needs to stay indoors and rest.”
Miranda smiled pleasantly. “At least you’ll have some company now that your guest is awake.” She smiled over at Orlando. “Have a Merry New Year, until tomorrow.” She waved goodbye as her husband escorted her to the door. She blew one last kiss to her brother before closing the door behind her.
When they were gone, Orlando raised an eyebrow and asked Viggo, “What did you mean by ‘especially tonight’?”
“It’s New Years Eve.” Viggo winked.
“Oh.” Orli suddenly felt guilty. “I don’t mean to keep you from the party…you can go if you want, I wont steal anything…I promise.”
Viggo laughed softly. “I didn’t think you would. And I was not planning on going since you were sick and unconscious. But now that you are awake and well, it would be rude to leave you.”
Orli smiled shyly again. “I would enjoy the company…”
“I’ll go fix us some tea and maybe bring a book to read, to pass the time? Unless you would rather sleep. You have been through a lot and I would not want you to do too much too soon.”
“I feel fine, actually...” Orli said as he stretched, suppressing a yawn. He wanted Viggo to return and did not want him to think that he was too tired for conversation and company.
“Nevertheless, stay in bed.” Viggo ordered as he hastily closed the door behind him.
Orli felt his stomach flip when Viggo told him to stay in bed, there was something incredibly sexy about the way he said it. Orlando sank back into the plush bed, he had better stop thinking that way about his host or he would be back on the streets selling matches that no one wanted.
***
Viggo leaned against the door and wiped the sweat from his brow with a handkerchief. That young man was going to be his undoing, that soft accent when he spoke sent Goosebumps all over Viggo’s body. And just now when Orlando Stretched, Viggo was graced with an accidental view of Orlando’s dark nipple as it peak out from the nightshirt.
He had bathed and changed Orlando into his present clothes, but there was something incredibly erotic about the way Orlando stretched on that bed. Viggo knew he had to leave the room immediately or he would surely lose his composure. He tried to catch his breath as he made his way down the stairs. It was going to be a long night.
TBC
*Very nervous*
Holiday fic
I hope you enjoy
dedicated to the wonderful and talented, Namarie
Frozen Embers
Part 1
By Akasha Elfwitch
For Namarie
Pairing: Viggo/Orlando
Rating: NC-17
Beta (s): Tularia, thank you xoxoxoxo
AU/ADULT
Warnings: AU, angst, implied character death, and one Virgin Orli
part 2 will post later today
Frozen Embers
Part 1
By Akasha Elfwitch
For Namarie
Pairing: Viggo/Orlando
Rating: NC-17
Beta (s): Tularia, thank you xoxoxoxo
AU/ADULT
Warnings: AU, angst, implied character death, and one Virgin Orli
Disclaimer: I do not claim to know these beautiful men. This is all made up in my mind, this never happened; I make no claim to know either actor’s sexual preference nor do I gain any profit from this endeavor. This is solely for entertainment purposes.
Feedback is appreciated akashaelfwitchvamp@comcast.net
Fanfiction: RPS
Synopsis: A Holiday tale based on the little Match Girl with a slashy twist.
Author’s Note: Based on the little Match Girl by H.C. Andersen
***
Victorian, London
Era late 1890’s
Orlando watched as the snowflakes continued to fall from the sky, a sad smile adorned his perfect lips. He had been unable to sell a single box of matches, which meant he would go hungry again this evening. Orli tried to ignore the hunger pangs he felt as he passed the shops that displayed their roasted hams and chickens. The aroma swarmed past him; he inhaled it hoping it would fill his empty belly. It had been so long since he had last eaten anything; he clutched at his growling stomach as he continued trudging through the snow.
Orli’s shoes were torn and offered little protection against the slush and snow; his tattered coat and scarf did not keep out the cold that embraced him so bitterly. He looked pitiful as he meekly asked the passerby’s if they would care to buy a box of matches.
Disheartened that this night proved to be uneventful, he slumped to the ground, tears burning in his eyes. He buried his head in his arms and wept softly, the snow falling off him as his shoulders shook from the onslaught of tears.
Orlando had no family to go home to and the tiny attic that was rented out to him proved no warmer than this street corner.
Holiday lights blinked red and green on every building sending a wave of melancholy throughout Orli’s slender frame. He could hear the carolers in the street, happily singing their holiday songs and children laughing as they passed by with their parents. Orlando had lost his parents in a fire when he was just a small child. He had never known the joy of Christmas or the warmth of family.
Orlando wiped his tears with the back of his hand and pulled at his fingerless gloves to try and warm up the rest of his hand. Perhaps if he were to light a match it would help to fight off the cold. There could be no harm in lighting just a single match, could there?
Orli pulled a single match out and stuck it against the building making a “scratch” sound as it ignited. Orlando placed his hand over the tiny flame, gathering as much warmth as he could before it sputtered out.
When it flickered out, Orli subconsciously lit another match and a vision of a warm fire and a table filled with holiday foods displayed before him. He reached out tentatively with his finger to try and touch the illusion, but as soon as the match went out, the image faded.
Orlando lit another match and this time the vision of a beautiful Christmas tree came into view. It was decorated in gold and silver and at the foot of the tree lay an abundance of gifts all wrapped in cheerful colors.
Orli smiled at the vision as tears streamed down his sooted face, was he dreaming? It mattered little at this point; it was so lovely to just look at, even if it was just an illusion. His smile faded as the match burnt out, taking the images with it.
Orlando found himself returned to the bitter cold. He stared off into the crowded street; as those more fortunate stepped over him as if he didn’t exist. How he wished his parents had not died when he was so young, how he wished he wasn’t so cold and hungry, how he wished there were someone on this forsaken earth that loved him. “Oh mother, how I wish you would have taken me with you…there is nothing for me here…”
Orlando lit another match and the vision of his mother danced before his eyes, “Take me with you…please…” he reached out to touch her and caress her hair. “What’s that? You will take me to a place where I will no longer suffer cold or hunger? Wait, don’t go mother…wait…don’t leave me…please…” but the image shimmered and faded as his last match burnt out.
Orlando fell into unconsciousness, his body no longer able to withstand the cruelty of the elements.
***
Viggo rushed over to the fallen body slumped against the building. “Please, let me through, I’m a doctor.” He pushed past the onlookers and felt for a pulse on the young man. Viggo could make out a distinct yet faint heartbeat under the pressure of his fingers.
The young man felt hot to the touch, he was burning with fever.
He would not last much longer out here in this cold.
“Is he dead?” asked a woman, huddling closer to her husband as if disgusted that someone had died on the street.
Viggo frowned over at the woman he could not believe how cold their hearts were; they all stood staring, but had done nothing to help the young man. He was appalled by their behavior. “No, he’s still alive.” He leaned over to pick up the fallen stranger. He had no idea who the young man was or what had happened to him, but he would take care of him regardless.
“Looks as if he was trying to warm himself,” offered one of the onlookers. Viggo glanced at the ground which was littered with matches.
“It would seem that way,” Viggo said as politely as he could. “You all have a Merry Christmas,” he added sarcastically.
The crowd parted for Viggo, some with their heads bowed in shame as he walked past them. Viggo carried the young man to his carriage, wrapping him up in blankets. “Take us home, Rhys. I need to get him someplace warm, make haste.” He closed the carriage door behind him and wrapped his arms around the unconscious stranger, attempting to keep him as warm as possible. Viggo only hoped that it was not too late.
***
Orlando’s eyes fluttered open and took in his strange surroundings. He found himself lying on a king size iron bed covered with a soft sheets and warm blankets. He sat up in alarm, where was he?
The bed did not squeak and the bedcover was embroidered and decorated with soft lace! Not like his bed made of straw and a filthy gray blanket that barely covered his lithe form.
Orli reached out to touch the foot of the bed. He had to make sure it was real. The scroll work of the iron bed post was decorated with a floral emblem that carefully matched the rose flowered wallpaper in the room. Behind the headboard was a curtain with a similar pattern that dressed the bed as a canopy. It added an elegance and feeling of welcome to the room.
The room was richly furnished with a cream colored chaise lounge chair at the far wall, covered with contrasting throw pillows and a few scattered books. There was an arm chair that matched the chaise chair that sat beside his bed along with a small table littered with stationery and an empty tea cup.
Fresh flowers decorated the matching iron vanity table that was positioned between the two small windows that lined the left side of the room. To his left, a large silver framed mirror adorned the wall. He leaned over a bit to look at his reflection; his cheeks shone the signs of health, his face was clean, his hair brushed…And those clothes? Where did they come from?
His fingers traced over the soft cotton nightshirt that covered his body. His brow furrowed in confusion. He did not own such a garment and worse yet, he panicked at the thought that someone *else* undressed and clothed him.
As if someone had read his thoughts, the door pushed open and a beautiful blonde woman entered. Her hair was done up elegantly and the clothes she wore were made from fine material. Her emerald green skirt swished under her feet as she approached him. She greeted him with a warm smile. “Oh! You’re finally awake!” she exclaimed in happy surprise, with a slight accent that Orli could not place. Was she American? “Brother will be pleased to see you are conscious. Are you hungry? Would you like me to bring you some food or hot tea?” she asked politely.
Orlando pulled the covers to his neck, feeling uncomfortable with the presence of the female in the room. He hoped *she* was not the one who had bathed and clothed him. He felt his cheeks burn from embarrassment. “Food would be lovely, thank you.” He replied meekly.
The woman continued to smile at the beautiful stranger. “I will have some brought straight away.” She paused before turning to exit the room. “If you don’t mind my asking, what is your name? Mine is Miranda and I welcome you to my brother’s house. Well, the house he is renting while he is visiting London, anyways.” She sighed as if her brother renting the house saddened her in some way.
“Name’s Orlando, Miss.”
“Mrs.” She corrected him in a friendly tone. “Mrs. Wenham, to be exact; my husband, David, and I have been assisting my brother with you in hopes that you would recover quickly.”
“What’s his name, ma’am if you don’t mind my asking?” Orli scratched his head, pushing his dark curls behind his ear. “And if you think it not too bold of me to ask, how did I get here? I fear I don’t remember…”
“Viggo is my brother’s name; most call him Doctor Mortensen. And he is one of the best medical doctors.” She answered proudly. “Vig practices mostly in our native homeland, Denmark…though I wish he would change his mind and stay here in London with us…oh well, what can I do?” she sighed again. “Anyways, Vig came here to visit my husband’s family and I for the holidays. He brought you here on Christmas Eve. You have been delirious with fever for a week; we have all been worried sick.” She brushed the hair out of his eyes like a mother would her child. “I will bring you some warm soup and hot tea. Won’t be but a moment.”
***
The door to Orlando’s room opened once more, but it wasn’t Miranda that entered. It was a tall, handsome man with sandy blonde hair. He blew the hair out of his face as he approached Orli. The man’s face seemed carved from an artist stone, it was finely chiseled and he sported a cleft in his chin, which Orli found rather attractive.
Orli bit his lower lip, trying not to stare at the gorgeous man that walked over to his bed. He wondered if this was Viggo, Miranda’s brother. If it were David, that meant he was married and most certainly unavailable.
What was Orli thinking? Just because it could be Viggo did not mean that the man would be interested in him. He desperately tried to push aside such lustful thoughts…they just were not appropriate.
Viggo carefully placed the tray full of food on Orlando’s lap, “How are you feeling?” He asked, leaning forward and feeling Orli’s forehead for any signs of a lingering fever. He was relieved to find that there was none.
Orli loved the feel of Viggo’s fingers on his cool skin, his fingers were soft and they brushed against him like silk. Viggo’s chest was so close to his lips all he had to do was lean over slightly and he could place a tender kiss over the woven fabric of Viggo’s vest. Viggo smelled divine, the mild scent of the after shave mixed with tobacco stirred awake desire in Orli.
Orli averted his eyes, he should not be thinking such thoughts, they were strictly forbidden and besides, the man probably had a beautiful wife and a handful of children waiting for him somewhere.
Orli tried to distract himself by inhaling the sweet scent of hot food. “You must be famished. I brought you a sample of all the foods the cook made this evening. I hope one of them is to your liking.”
Orlando’s eyes scanned the plates full of turkey, goose, ham, chicken, mashed potatoes, cranberries, steamed vegetables, and rolls of buttered bread. He did not know where to begin; he instinctively reached out for a roll first and devoured it hungrily, taking a large gulp of water to help it go down. He tore at a chicken leg next.
The man smiled appreciatively, “You *are* the hungry one, aren’t you?” he laughed good-naturedly, enjoying the scene of Orlando stuffing his mouth with food. “It’s good to see that you survived and that you have a healthy appetite. I feared the fever would claim you.” He added with sincere concern.
Orli wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, not noticing the worry that shone in the man’s eyes. “Are you Viggo? Err, Doctor Mortensen, I meant no disrespect.” he said between mouthfuls of ham and turkey.
“Indeed I am. And feel free to call me Viggo. I’m not one for formalities, I’m afraid.”
Orli smiled shyly at him and Viggo felt his heart swell, it was comforting to know that this beauty had survived from the clutches of death. He tried to carry on conversation, being a loner most of his life, he was unsure how to approach the young man. “I hope the room pleases you. I’m sorry that it’s a bit feminine, but it was the only room I had to spare.”
“I don’t mind it…lot better than the attic I sleep in.” Orli pressed his lips together thoughtfully, he mumbled mostly to himself. “Though I probably don’t have that anymore…” Orli looked back at Viggo, trying to sound neutral about the whole thing. “Your sister told me I have been here a week? Landlady must have thought I abandoned the place and rented it out to someone else…” he tried to shrug it off. “No matter, I can find another place.” He lied, turning his attention back on the honey glazed ham.
Viggo tried not to frown he knew that Orlando was lying for his benefit. He did not have the heart to send him back into the harsh cold after nursing him back to health the past week. “You could stay here, that is, if you like.” He asked suddenly unsure of himself.
Orli almost choked on his food. “I don’t think I can afford living here, sir…but thank you for the offer.”
“Who mentioned anything about paying rent?” Viggo asked. He looked at Orli, unsure as how to address his next question. “Tell me, are you educated?” Viggo hoped that did not come out as crass as it sounded.
Orli took another gulp of water, “Yes, sir. I’ve had some schooling.”
Viggo nodded in approval, “I would like to train you as my assistant. I would have a tutor come in and brush up your skills…” Viggo looked down at his hands, “You see, my sister wants me to open an office here in London, feels I am better suited for the city, I suppose. She doesn’t want me to return to Denmark…mostly because I don’t have a family of my own…she worries about me.”
“What would I need to do?” Orli asked suddenly interested. No family? A man in his position and social standing? Orlando bit back his tongue and tried not too sound too eager.
“I would need someone to help me put papers in order and help sort out appointments and such. But I want you to know that I only want you to accept it if you want to, no obligations or strings attached.”
“I know you are not obligating me, I would very much like to work for you Dr. Mortensen.”
“Viggo,” he corrected Orli, “Please call me Viggo.”
“Would that be proper? To call you by your first name if I’m to be working for you?”
“I told you I wasn’t much on formalities.”
Orlando sent Viggo another shy smile. “All right…Viggo….”
“One last thing, do you have a surname, Orlando?” Viggo asked as he sat in the arm chair beside the bed.
Orlando continued to smile as he inhaled down a mouthful of chicken, “Bloom.”
***
Orlando continued to feast on the food until none was left, leaving an astonished but grinning Viggo. “I can bring you more if you like…there are also pastries and sweets if you prefer?”
“No, I’m full.” Orli waved his hand. His dark eyes slowly took in the man sitting before him. Viggo’s hair fell into his eyes and he was always brushing it aside. Revealing eyes so blue that Orli was certain that the sky itself would be envious of their color.
Orlando shook his head, waving aside such impossible dreams. “I uh, wanted to thank you…for saving me from the cold and for the food…well, perhaps it best to just thank you for everything.” Orlando’s words seemed to stumble over themselves.
Viggo smiled warmly, “You’re welcome, Orlando…can I call you Orlando?”
Orlando looked over at Viggo with a flirty smile, “You saved me, you may call me whatever you wish.”
Viggo’s laughter filled the room and Orli found himself laughing along with Viggo, their merriment catching the attention of the others in the house. Miranda and David entered the room their arms interlocked with one another.
Miranda was dressed even more elegantly than she had been earlier that day. She wore a bright silver dress that sparkled from the tiny beads that were embroidered into the fabric. Her outfit was completed with matching choker and long black gloves that were covered with diamond bracelets.
David was dressed in a tuxedo, complete with white scarf and a red rose pinned to his lapel. “We came by to bid you both a goodnight and Merry New Year before heading off to the party.”
“Ah, yes.” Viggo nodded absently. “Have a good time.”
“I see he ate heartily.” Miranda noted as she made her way to clear the tray. “That is a good sign.”
“Devoured is more like it,” David winked over at Orlando. “My brother in law says that a healthy, sturdy appetite is a good sign of recovery.” He took the tray from his wife, shaking his head and placing the tray out of her reach when she protested.
Viggo smiled at the scene displayed before him. He was glad that his sister had married a good man like David. Theirs was a good marriage and Viggo was glad that David made Miranda happy. Viggo had no family of his own and he had missed her terribly once she had married and moved to London.
David’s voice broke Viggo from his thoughts. “Miri and I are off to the party. We will see you tomorrow afternoon for tea?”
“Yes, see you tomorrow.” Viggo stood up and hugged his brother in law and his sister goodbye. “Don’t worry about me, just have a good time at the party.” He playfully tapped her nose.
“You sure you won’t change your mind and at least stop by?” she asked with a small pout.
“No can do, Miri. Orlando is awake now and it would be rude to leave him alone. Especially tonight. And I won’t risk dressing him and sending him out into the frigid night air and have him get ill again. He needs to stay indoors and rest.”
Miranda smiled pleasantly. “At least you’ll have some company now that your guest is awake.” She smiled over at Orlando. “Have a Merry New Year, until tomorrow.” She waved goodbye as her husband escorted her to the door. She blew one last kiss to her brother before closing the door behind her.
When they were gone, Orlando raised an eyebrow and asked Viggo, “What did you mean by ‘especially tonight’?”
“It’s New Years Eve.” Viggo winked.
“Oh.” Orli suddenly felt guilty. “I don’t mean to keep you from the party…you can go if you want, I wont steal anything…I promise.”
Viggo laughed softly. “I didn’t think you would. And I was not planning on going since you were sick and unconscious. But now that you are awake and well, it would be rude to leave you.”
Orli smiled shyly again. “I would enjoy the company…”
“I’ll go fix us some tea and maybe bring a book to read, to pass the time? Unless you would rather sleep. You have been through a lot and I would not want you to do too much too soon.”
“I feel fine, actually...” Orli said as he stretched, suppressing a yawn. He wanted Viggo to return and did not want him to think that he was too tired for conversation and company.
“Nevertheless, stay in bed.” Viggo ordered as he hastily closed the door behind him.
Orli felt his stomach flip when Viggo told him to stay in bed, there was something incredibly sexy about the way he said it. Orlando sank back into the plush bed, he had better stop thinking that way about his host or he would be back on the streets selling matches that no one wanted.
***
Viggo leaned against the door and wiped the sweat from his brow with a handkerchief. That young man was going to be his undoing, that soft accent when he spoke sent Goosebumps all over Viggo’s body. And just now when Orlando Stretched, Viggo was graced with an accidental view of Orlando’s dark nipple as it peak out from the nightshirt.
He had bathed and changed Orlando into his present clothes, but there was something incredibly erotic about the way Orlando stretched on that bed. Viggo knew he had to leave the room immediately or he would surely lose his composure. He tried to catch his breath as he made his way down the stairs. It was going to be a long night.
TBC