There was an expression of quiet happiness on Cris's face when he talked about Rowan. Alex wondered if Cris realized it was there. "I guess we're just all lucky," he said. "I know I'm lucky to have friends like you and Rowan too."
Should he consider it odd that all his friends seemed to be vampires? There couldn't possible be that many in the city but somehow he was meeting them. Although a lot of that had to be because of Eiryk; Alex couldn't imagine he'd have met Cris or Rowan otherwise.
"You call, and we'll come," Alex said with a smile. "Hopefully we won't need to beat him too hard."
He was grateful that Cris offered an explanation of what had happened. Alex understood Cris's job was a very dangerous one, but this seemed fairly coincidental. That didn't make it less dangerous, just a random freak occurrence.
"I'm sorry you didn't get him, but I'm glad he got away." Alex shrugged. "The alternative couldn't have been good."
Had they managed to hold on to this guy, how much more damage might he have inflicted on Cris? "Careful is good. I like having you as a friend Cris."
Rowan and Eiryk emerged into the room just then and Alex sat upright. His eyes rested on Eiryk and he smiled. Cris's bite was just as arousing as Eiryk's had been and while the physical effects were fading a bit the desire was still there and there was only one person here he truly wanted to share that with. With one last squeeze of Christian's hand Alex stood.
"Next time," he said to Eiryk. "Yes. For now I think we should let these two rest."
Alex turned to Rowan, smiling at him. "You get better too, Rowan."
He reached out and took Eiryk's hand. "I was told I needed cookies." He raised his eyebrows at his partner. "Don't make me make a lewd suggestion about what I'd like to eat."
It was a very fast trip home.
((ooc: Eiryk and Alex out))
Avon Calling
Cris groaned softly and tried to sit up. It hurt. The drugs had worn off by now and things were mending in the steady certain way of all vampires, especially ones with a ready supply of blood. He made it to an upright position though and then sat there working through the pain and trying to decide what he wanted to do now.
"Do you want to go downstairs?â€
He glanced over at the IV rack and then to the tube in his arm. Carefully he unhooked himself and then turned back to his companion.
"Or we can perhaps try a shower?†While he did feel more stable, he did not think he was up to showering by himself. He would need to be careful with his back and the last thing he wanted to do was slip and fall in there.
Peeling back the bandage on his face, he found it warm to the touch, raised and somewhat swollen but entirely closed. If he were human then it would have made an interesting scar, but thankfully it would be totally gone by tomorrow.
His ribs were still sore and probably at least still cracked. It still hurt when he breathed, from the tear in his lung and the broken ribs. The gashes in his back had been sewn closed by Rowan and the skin layer might be knitted together by now with that bit of outside aid. What was underneath was still healing.
Standing carefully, Cris reached out and steadied himself with a hand on the headboard and waited for his partner's opinion on what they should do. After all, Rowan was the doctor and Cris had promised to be good.
Alex Aristos
12 years ago
Christian Bern
12 years ago
Cris was sorry the killer got away as well and he was not at all glad the werewolf managed to escape. He was not so sure that Alex would be glad about it if he knew the whole story but he did understand the sentiment behind his friend's words.
"I like being around to be liked.†He replied with a smile to Alex telling him that being careful was good because he would be missed.
The other two came into the room and Eiryk told him his hospitality was not up to par with previous visits. "Hang on.†He made to push himself up off the sofa. "Rowan help me drag the IV around while I make some tea and crumpets for our guests.â€
Cris settled back down into his pile of pillows, conveniently about the time Alex suggested that they save the socializing to next time and leave so that he and Rowan could rest. "When you come again we'll have to get out the fine china.†It would go so nicely with the rum and video game playing.
Alex told Eiryk that he needed cookies and made it plain while stating that he wouldn't make it plain exactly what it was that he wanted to eat. Cris snorted quietly, both in surprise at Alex's joke and at the similar intentions to his and Rowan's earlier activities. Something in his partner's expression suggested that they might soon be engaged in that activity again.
"I like being around to be liked.†He replied with a smile to Alex telling him that being careful was good because he would be missed.
The other two came into the room and Eiryk told him his hospitality was not up to par with previous visits. "Hang on.†He made to push himself up off the sofa. "Rowan help me drag the IV around while I make some tea and crumpets for our guests.â€
Cris settled back down into his pile of pillows, conveniently about the time Alex suggested that they save the socializing to next time and leave so that he and Rowan could rest. "When you come again we'll have to get out the fine china.†It would go so nicely with the rum and video game playing.
Alex told Eiryk that he needed cookies and made it plain while stating that he wouldn't make it plain exactly what it was that he wanted to eat. Cris snorted quietly, both in surprise at Alex's joke and at the similar intentions to his and Rowan's earlier activities. Something in his partner's expression suggested that they might soon be engaged in that activity again.
Rowan Murphy
12 years ago
Rowan had to laugh at Alex's parting comment to Eiryk. There was no avoiding the effect of a vampire's bite, but their friend didn't seem ashamed or embarrassed. Rowan found Alex's solution very practical and sort of sweet. Turned on by a vampire bite? Go jump your boyfriend.
A very good solution, indeed.
As Eiryk and Alex left, Rowan returned to his previous position kneeling next to the couch. He leaned over and crossed his arms, resting very lightly on Cris's hips, mostly supporting himself.
"It was good of them to come over," he said with a smile. "Feeling a little better?"
Every bit of blood would help; Cris could only feel better and better. There were no crashes when you were a vampire. As long as you were alive and getting blood, progress was a steady uphill journey.
His casual tone masked the turmoil of emotions he felt inside. While his little breakdown had been cathartic in the sense that he got some anxiety off his chest, it had done nothing to assist with the desperate urge to complete their earlier activity. If anything, remembering he'd come close to losing Cris, his Cris, only made him want to return to it all the more.
Rowan rested his cheek on Cris's thigh, his thumbs gently diving beneath Cris's shirt to stroke his stomach teasingly. "Now where were we?"
He softly nibbled the light fabric of Cris's pants, tugging the blanket back down. "Oh right. I was about to read you a very long boring passage from the encyclopedia to help you sleep. That was what you wanted, yes?"
He glanced up a Cris, humor making his grey-green eyes sparkle.
A very good solution, indeed.
As Eiryk and Alex left, Rowan returned to his previous position kneeling next to the couch. He leaned over and crossed his arms, resting very lightly on Cris's hips, mostly supporting himself.
"It was good of them to come over," he said with a smile. "Feeling a little better?"
Every bit of blood would help; Cris could only feel better and better. There were no crashes when you were a vampire. As long as you were alive and getting blood, progress was a steady uphill journey.
His casual tone masked the turmoil of emotions he felt inside. While his little breakdown had been cathartic in the sense that he got some anxiety off his chest, it had done nothing to assist with the desperate urge to complete their earlier activity. If anything, remembering he'd come close to losing Cris, his Cris, only made him want to return to it all the more.
Rowan rested his cheek on Cris's thigh, his thumbs gently diving beneath Cris's shirt to stroke his stomach teasingly. "Now where were we?"
He softly nibbled the light fabric of Cris's pants, tugging the blanket back down. "Oh right. I was about to read you a very long boring passage from the encyclopedia to help you sleep. That was what you wanted, yes?"
He glanced up a Cris, humor making his grey-green eyes sparkle.
Christian Bern
12 years ago
"Yes.†Cris answered Rowan's question about his health with straight forward honesty. It was tempting to tease his partner and say that he might feel better with a little help or encouragement but he did not want Rowan to worry about him. So when he could give him some good news Cris felt the best thing to do was to be clear and honest about it.
However, he could think of a few things Rowan could do to make him feel much better....
Humming softly in pleasure as he felt his lover's hands reach beneath his clothing, Cris closed his eyes and waited for Rowan to return to his earlier endeavor. He then opened his eyes once more and looked down at his partner when Rowan asked if he wanted to be read to from the encyclopedia. "Absolutely, something on male anatomy.†Cris lifted a hand and brushed his thumb lightly over Rowan's lips. "With a lot of helpful demonstrations and graphic examples.â€
He settled further down into the pillows once more and then tilted his head to the side in order to watch his companion. "If you 'read' long enough then your efforts are bound to help me sleep. I promise.â€
Giving his lover a wide eyed hopeful expression, Cris spoke in a soft tremulous voice. "You will tell me a wonderful bed time story, won't you, Rue?â€
However, he could think of a few things Rowan could do to make him feel much better....
Humming softly in pleasure as he felt his lover's hands reach beneath his clothing, Cris closed his eyes and waited for Rowan to return to his earlier endeavor. He then opened his eyes once more and looked down at his partner when Rowan asked if he wanted to be read to from the encyclopedia. "Absolutely, something on male anatomy.†Cris lifted a hand and brushed his thumb lightly over Rowan's lips. "With a lot of helpful demonstrations and graphic examples.â€
He settled further down into the pillows once more and then tilted his head to the side in order to watch his companion. "If you 'read' long enough then your efforts are bound to help me sleep. I promise.â€
Giving his lover a wide eyed hopeful expression, Cris spoke in a soft tremulous voice. "You will tell me a wonderful bed time story, won't you, Rue?â€
Rowan Murphy
12 years ago
Rowan sighed happily when Cris confirmed that he was feeling better. Did it surprise Rowan? No, not at all... but all the practical knowledge and book learning and firsthand experience in the world could not reassure him the way Cris himself could, in the voice Rowan loved so dearly. It brought a smile to his lips instantly.
When Cris's finger brushed over his lips Rowan's reaction was immediate and probably not at all unexpected; he took Cris's thumb between his teeth and gently sucked it into his mouth, gliding his tongue over it. He released after it moment to let Cris snuggle down a bit on the couch, chuckling as his partner played along with his joke.
"If you truly want a bedtime story I will tell you one," he said, "but first, one of those graphic examples."
His gentle hands slid Cris's pajamas down once more. "I remember being right about here."
He used his fingertips to lightly grasp his partner's shaft at its base. Holding it still Rowan lowered his head and lightly circled his tongue around the head of Cris's cock. He stroked his partner slowly while teasing with his mouth, his lips and teeth making an erotic exploration up and down Cris's length. His free hand caressed the insides of his lover's thighs, cupping his balls warmly and massaging in time with each stroke.
He broke away for just a moment to press a warm kiss on the inside of Cris's leg. Looking up, he smiled once more. "Do you have any idea just how much I adore you?"
Then, with a clear destination in mind he lowered his head and poised himself over Cris's cock, ready to stop teasing and take his partner in.
When Cris's finger brushed over his lips Rowan's reaction was immediate and probably not at all unexpected; he took Cris's thumb between his teeth and gently sucked it into his mouth, gliding his tongue over it. He released after it moment to let Cris snuggle down a bit on the couch, chuckling as his partner played along with his joke.
"If you truly want a bedtime story I will tell you one," he said, "but first, one of those graphic examples."
His gentle hands slid Cris's pajamas down once more. "I remember being right about here."
He used his fingertips to lightly grasp his partner's shaft at its base. Holding it still Rowan lowered his head and lightly circled his tongue around the head of Cris's cock. He stroked his partner slowly while teasing with his mouth, his lips and teeth making an erotic exploration up and down Cris's length. His free hand caressed the insides of his lover's thighs, cupping his balls warmly and massaging in time with each stroke.
He broke away for just a moment to press a warm kiss on the inside of Cris's leg. Looking up, he smiled once more. "Do you have any idea just how much I adore you?"
Then, with a clear destination in mind he lowered his head and poised himself over Cris's cock, ready to stop teasing and take his partner in.
Christian Bern
12 years ago
Cris was an instant fan of the graphic demonstration as Rowan wrapped his hand around his erection and began teasing him once more. This time he felt a greater sense of urgency than he had before. Perhaps it was because he had been teased and left wanting once already, perhaps it was the recent blood he had drank from Alex or perhaps it was a fear that they might be interrupted again.
He could barely hold still and he writhed a bit under his partner's light touches and gentle strokes before firmly grasping the edge and back of the sofa once again in an effort not to move. Cris was gasping and moaning by the time his lover paused to look up at him. Rowan asked him if he knew how much he adored him. Cris's answer was to squirm in his partner's grasp and lean up to regard Rowan with a near desperate expression. There was a breathless quality to his voice when he answered that had nothing at all to do with his injuries.
"Hopefully enough to give me a more in depth graphic illustration.â€
Rowan leaned down over him once more and Cris let out the breath he had not realized he had been holding. There would be more demonstrations, hopefully this time in earnest.
...and then the doorbell rang.
Cris let his head drop heavily against the pillows. The sound that he made was part disbelieving chuckle and part frustrated sigh. "You've got to be kidding me.â€
Not bothering to pull up his pants, Cris grabbed the blanket and tossed it back over his lap. He was fairly certain that he could remain seated and covered without any guests expecting him to stand.
"I suppose we should find out who that is.â€
He could barely hold still and he writhed a bit under his partner's light touches and gentle strokes before firmly grasping the edge and back of the sofa once again in an effort not to move. Cris was gasping and moaning by the time his lover paused to look up at him. Rowan asked him if he knew how much he adored him. Cris's answer was to squirm in his partner's grasp and lean up to regard Rowan with a near desperate expression. There was a breathless quality to his voice when he answered that had nothing at all to do with his injuries.
"Hopefully enough to give me a more in depth graphic illustration.â€
Rowan leaned down over him once more and Cris let out the breath he had not realized he had been holding. There would be more demonstrations, hopefully this time in earnest.
...and then the doorbell rang.
Cris let his head drop heavily against the pillows. The sound that he made was part disbelieving chuckle and part frustrated sigh. "You've got to be kidding me.â€
Not bothering to pull up his pants, Cris grabbed the blanket and tossed it back over his lap. He was fairly certain that he could remain seated and covered without any guests expecting him to stand.
"I suppose we should find out who that is.â€
Rowan Murphy
12 years ago
"God damnit."
Rowan's voice was tense and breathless with frustration as he rolled his eyes heavenward and said to the powers that weren't, "Really?"
As Cris pulled the blanket up without bothering with anything else Rowan groaned. He pushed himself away from his partner, leaned down for a brief kiss, and wrapped his blanket around himself again, determined to look as if he were desperately in need of sleep and had been woken from a nap. Normally he'd love nothing better than to socialize, but ... no. Grrr. Go away.
He walked over to the door and put on his best sleepy face. Opening it, he did a double take. There was no one there. He glanced down, and his brow furrowed. On the floor were two small airplane-sized bottles of alcohol. He bent and picked them up. Vodka and rum. Was there some significance to the little bottles? He could see Eiryk leaving the rum, or Alex, but vodka?
A flicker of motion caught his eye and he looked back up to see two black birds flying down the hallway. Realization dawned on him and he almost laughed, but Cris was waiting for him in the living room. He closed the door, gave it an extra shove as if to say, 'no more of this knocking business,' and went back inside.
Stalking into the living room, a look of fierce determination upon his face, Rowan placed the bottles on the table with gentle deliberation so Cris could see them clearly. In one smooth motion he dropped his blanket, knelt, and pulled Cris's away again.
"Alfarinn sends his regards," he said. Then, without further foreplay, he gripped his partner firmly, caressed his hard shaft, and took it into his mouth with a moan of sheer delight.
Giving it a long, thorough taste, Rowan pulled away with some difficulty. "Do be a love and -send- Alfarinn our thanks. If you can."
That was a bit wicked of him, perhaps, but it might forestall further interruptions from their caring and concerned Elder and friend. Didn't mean Rowan planned to make it easy on Cris though. Enough said... he closed his eyes in bliss and slid himself down upon his lover's erection once more, taking Cris fully in and sucking gently.
Rowan's voice was tense and breathless with frustration as he rolled his eyes heavenward and said to the powers that weren't, "Really?"
As Cris pulled the blanket up without bothering with anything else Rowan groaned. He pushed himself away from his partner, leaned down for a brief kiss, and wrapped his blanket around himself again, determined to look as if he were desperately in need of sleep and had been woken from a nap. Normally he'd love nothing better than to socialize, but ... no. Grrr. Go away.
He walked over to the door and put on his best sleepy face. Opening it, he did a double take. There was no one there. He glanced down, and his brow furrowed. On the floor were two small airplane-sized bottles of alcohol. He bent and picked them up. Vodka and rum. Was there some significance to the little bottles? He could see Eiryk leaving the rum, or Alex, but vodka?
A flicker of motion caught his eye and he looked back up to see two black birds flying down the hallway. Realization dawned on him and he almost laughed, but Cris was waiting for him in the living room. He closed the door, gave it an extra shove as if to say, 'no more of this knocking business,' and went back inside.
Stalking into the living room, a look of fierce determination upon his face, Rowan placed the bottles on the table with gentle deliberation so Cris could see them clearly. In one smooth motion he dropped his blanket, knelt, and pulled Cris's away again.
"Alfarinn sends his regards," he said. Then, without further foreplay, he gripped his partner firmly, caressed his hard shaft, and took it into his mouth with a moan of sheer delight.
Giving it a long, thorough taste, Rowan pulled away with some difficulty. "Do be a love and -send- Alfarinn our thanks. If you can."
That was a bit wicked of him, perhaps, but it might forestall further interruptions from their caring and concerned Elder and friend. Didn't mean Rowan planned to make it easy on Cris though. Enough said... he closed his eyes in bliss and slid himself down upon his lover's erection once more, taking Cris fully in and sucking gently.
Christian Bern
12 years ago
Cris laid there with his eyes closed waiting to hear who was at the door this time. If it was a member of security then he was prepared to find them something 'very important' to do for him that was urgent and that must be done elsewhere.
Rowan opened the door but did not greet anyone. Cris listened in puzzlement, wondering if perhaps his partner was communicating to a sender. Sorcha came to mind which would explain the reason for sending instead of speaking even while standing face to face with someone.
His lover stalked back to the sofa and placed two tiny bottles of alcohol on the side table. Cris glanced at them and then glared upward to where, somewhere on the top floor, Alfarinn was probably chuckling to himself.
"I ....Oh god.†Cris gasped and reached for Rowan's shoulder when his partner took his aching, thoroughly teased, rock hard erection in hand and the leaned down and smoothly swallowed it whole. He gripped Rowan's shoulder tightly out of reflex before realizing that it might in fact be bruised. He hastily pulled his hand away and held onto the edge of the sofa instead, unable to stop himself from arching his back in sheer sensory overload.
His lover, the man he had often times compared to a saint for his selfless dedication and compassion, then pulled away from him and requested, ever so politely, that he thank Alfarinn for his kind gift. Cris blinked at Rowan for a moment wondering how the man could possibly expect him to think at all much less send.
However, far be it from him to refuse Rowan such a simple request. Cris nodded and agreed. "If you wish.â€
He waited until Rowan wrapped his lips around him once more and then sent a small query to his gift giving elder. [Alfarinn?] Cris waited until his curious and concerned friend opened himself up to the bond between them and then he dropped every ounce of subterfuge that he had up to mask his mental and emotional state. Flooding their deep connection with love, lust, frustration and amusement, Cris sent Rowan's message. [We would like to thank you for your thoughtful...and timely gift.]
The response he got after the initial overwhelmed surprise was rueful amusement. [Your welcome, Crispin....Good to know you are feeling better. I must compliment Rowan on his bedside manner...later.]
With Rowan doing what he was doing it took Cris a moment to piece together what Alfarinn had actually said. He chuckled softly at his friend's words and then settled back against the cushions, smoothing his hand comfortingly along his lover's back. "No more gifts but he does send his complimentsâ€
((OOC: Our philanthropic elder in blue ))
Rowan opened the door but did not greet anyone. Cris listened in puzzlement, wondering if perhaps his partner was communicating to a sender. Sorcha came to mind which would explain the reason for sending instead of speaking even while standing face to face with someone.
His lover stalked back to the sofa and placed two tiny bottles of alcohol on the side table. Cris glanced at them and then glared upward to where, somewhere on the top floor, Alfarinn was probably chuckling to himself.
"I ....Oh god.†Cris gasped and reached for Rowan's shoulder when his partner took his aching, thoroughly teased, rock hard erection in hand and the leaned down and smoothly swallowed it whole. He gripped Rowan's shoulder tightly out of reflex before realizing that it might in fact be bruised. He hastily pulled his hand away and held onto the edge of the sofa instead, unable to stop himself from arching his back in sheer sensory overload.
His lover, the man he had often times compared to a saint for his selfless dedication and compassion, then pulled away from him and requested, ever so politely, that he thank Alfarinn for his kind gift. Cris blinked at Rowan for a moment wondering how the man could possibly expect him to think at all much less send.
However, far be it from him to refuse Rowan such a simple request. Cris nodded and agreed. "If you wish.â€
He waited until Rowan wrapped his lips around him once more and then sent a small query to his gift giving elder. [Alfarinn?] Cris waited until his curious and concerned friend opened himself up to the bond between them and then he dropped every ounce of subterfuge that he had up to mask his mental and emotional state. Flooding their deep connection with love, lust, frustration and amusement, Cris sent Rowan's message. [We would like to thank you for your thoughtful...and timely gift.]
The response he got after the initial overwhelmed surprise was rueful amusement. [Your welcome, Crispin....Good to know you are feeling better. I must compliment Rowan on his bedside manner...later.]
With Rowan doing what he was doing it took Cris a moment to piece together what Alfarinn had actually said. He chuckled softly at his friend's words and then settled back against the cushions, smoothing his hand comfortingly along his lover's back. "No more gifts but he does send his complimentsâ€
((OOC: Our philanthropic elder in blue ))
Rowan Murphy
12 years ago
Cris's obvious pleasure almost made the constant interruptions worth it. Rowan hadn't expected quite so many of them at this particular time of night, but apparently there was a time frame in which you came to visit your injured friend and they were smack in the middle of it. Having started, Rowan was certainly not going to leave Cris wanting although the wiser course of action might have been to table their activity for a bit. Wisdom be damned. It was begun, and he was going to finish it, at least for Cris.
His partner grabbed his shoulder and gave a breathless exclamation. Rowan loved hearing that desperate edge in Cris's voice; it was an utter turn on. When Cris quickly withdrew his hand Rowan pulled it back, and as he sank himself down onto Cris's cock he placed Cris's hand at the back of his head so his partner could dig his fingers into Rowan's hair if he wanted.
He couldn't be light and teasing and gentle anymore. It simply wouldn't do; he wanted to push Cris over the edge, to give him that blissful release he had promised earlier. To that end he stroked deep with his mouth, swirling his tongue quickly over Cris's sensitive tip each time he pulled back and poised himself for the next thrust.
Rowan was both amused and amazed that Cris actually managed to deliver the message to Alfarinn; in response he braced Cris's hips with both hands and sucked harder, desperation suffusing every pore of his body, needing to feel Cris's release. It couldn't be far now; his poor partner's body was tense and trembling.
And then the unthinkable happened - again. The door. A soft knock that a human might not have heard but two vampires...
The room went absolutely still. It was as if they were frozen. Then, Rowan slowly pulled away with a little sob and fell against Cris's thigh, pressing his forehead to it momentarily. The words were torn almost unbidden from his throat...
"I'll... be right there."
He was shaking as he drew the blanket up over his partner's waist once again. "We need a 'do not disturb' sign," he muttered, humor evident in his voice but suffused with plenty of frustration.
Once more, he wrapped himself in his blanket, tried to look sick and exhausted instead of so horny he was literally about to explode, and pulled open the door. To his surprise, Sullivan stood there, looking somewhat uncertain.
"Hey," he said with a smile. "I'm glad you made it home all right."
It took a great deal of work to keep his voice from quaking but he almost managed. Maybe it would make him look more pathetic. "Why don't you come on in? Cris is in the living room. This way."
Inside, a few little pieces of his lecherous, sex-loving soul jumped off a small ledge and shattered into fragments. Hospitality just kept happening... when what he really wanted was a dark, soundproof room with a bolt lock.
His partner grabbed his shoulder and gave a breathless exclamation. Rowan loved hearing that desperate edge in Cris's voice; it was an utter turn on. When Cris quickly withdrew his hand Rowan pulled it back, and as he sank himself down onto Cris's cock he placed Cris's hand at the back of his head so his partner could dig his fingers into Rowan's hair if he wanted.
He couldn't be light and teasing and gentle anymore. It simply wouldn't do; he wanted to push Cris over the edge, to give him that blissful release he had promised earlier. To that end he stroked deep with his mouth, swirling his tongue quickly over Cris's sensitive tip each time he pulled back and poised himself for the next thrust.
Rowan was both amused and amazed that Cris actually managed to deliver the message to Alfarinn; in response he braced Cris's hips with both hands and sucked harder, desperation suffusing every pore of his body, needing to feel Cris's release. It couldn't be far now; his poor partner's body was tense and trembling.
And then the unthinkable happened - again. The door. A soft knock that a human might not have heard but two vampires...
The room went absolutely still. It was as if they were frozen. Then, Rowan slowly pulled away with a little sob and fell against Cris's thigh, pressing his forehead to it momentarily. The words were torn almost unbidden from his throat...
"I'll... be right there."
He was shaking as he drew the blanket up over his partner's waist once again. "We need a 'do not disturb' sign," he muttered, humor evident in his voice but suffused with plenty of frustration.
Once more, he wrapped himself in his blanket, tried to look sick and exhausted instead of so horny he was literally about to explode, and pulled open the door. To his surprise, Sullivan stood there, looking somewhat uncertain.
"Hey," he said with a smile. "I'm glad you made it home all right."
It took a great deal of work to keep his voice from quaking but he almost managed. Maybe it would make him look more pathetic. "Why don't you come on in? Cris is in the living room. This way."
Inside, a few little pieces of his lecherous, sex-loving soul jumped off a small ledge and shattered into fragments. Hospitality just kept happening... when what he really wanted was a dark, soundproof room with a bolt lock.
Christian Bern
12 years ago
So close, Cris was clinging to both the sofa and Rowan. Breathless gasps of pleasure escaped him and he arched his back, his eyes closed tight as his lover brought him closer and closer to the edge of ecstasy. He moaned and muttered encouragement in the form of breathless words like "yes†and "please, don't stop.â€
Then there was a knock on the door. Rowan stopped and Cris let out a shuddering sigh that was almost a sob. He had been right there. A few more strokes and all the knocking in the world would not have mattered.
Rowan pulled his blanket back around him and mumbled that they needed a 'do not disturb sign'. Cris laughed softly and thought that it would be a sound investment.
As he heard his lover open the door, Cris sent to him. [You know it is tempting for me to finish what you started while you are over there. Surely you could distract who ever that is for a few more moments.] He was not at all serious. Cris wanted Rowan to be there when he came or it just wasn't worth it to him, not even now. Not when he could have better...and he was determined that he would and soon.
Sullivan's voice could be heard from the entryway and Cris could make out her response about being grateful that the both of them also escaped their encounter alive, if not unharmed. She then told Rowan, in that fierce determined voice that she occasionally got when speaking of some goal that meant a lot to her, that they had even more to go on now and that they would catch this guy.
Soon she was standing in front of him, one hand fidgeting with the short trimmed, neatly manicured nails of the other hand. "I am sorry he got away, Sir.â€
Cris smiled up at her. "Me too, Sullivan.â€
"It won't happen next time. We'll...†He held up a hand to cut off the encouragement speech she was planning on giving him.
"Yes, I am sure we will.â€
"Right.†She smiled crookedly at him and then her brows furrowed into a frown. "You look like hell, Sir.â€
"Why thank you, Emma. I assure you I look much improved actually.†He glanced behind her to Rowan who looked more haggard than he had before they had showered. His partner really needed some sleep. "Was there something else?†Cris prodded gently.
"Oh†Emma blushed a bright red. "No†Then she squeezed the one hand tightly with the other and looked frustrated with herself. "I mean, no, I don't have anything to report. I just thought...†She looked down at him and then at the IV in his arm and the nearly empty bag of blood. "That maybe I could help...but I see that you have been taken care of...I†She looked back at Rowan and smiled. "You live with a doctor. How silly of me.â€
Cris reached out, biting back a wince as he leaned sideways, and took hold of her hand. "Emma†When he had her attention, he guided her gently to the edge of the sofa. "Your help would be greatly appreciated.â€
"Oh?†She looked at him uncertainly, as if he were lying to her to be polite and then would take her gift and hide it away in the closet somewhere and only bring it out whenever she came to visit. Why, yes, I love this knitted tissue box cozy with a bear on...oh its a cat...I love it, no really. How adorable and useful... Except that she was offering blood and that was hard to take without using. "Oh, well uhm...†She pushed her hair back from her neck and then leaned toward him rather haltingly, stiffly holding herself at an awkward angle to keep from accidentally touching him.
Why did humans think vampires needed to bite their necks? It was certainly convenient and generally more appropriate when you were romancing someone in order to feed from them but it was not the only body part available.
Cris sat up, and gently gathered Emma a little closer. She still sat rigidly in his grasp, willing but obviously uncomfortable with the arrangement. He checked her aura, several times, to make sure she was perfectly okay with what she was offering. It told him that she really very much wanted to help. She was nervous and embarrassed and somewhat intimidated.
He looked up to find Rowan giving him a look that communicated exactly how his partner still felt about the interruption, however well intentioned it might be. Cris smiled at him and sent. [I know. I will try to make it quick. I promise. This is just a big step for her and she's a little scared.] He was sure Rowan could see that even without using his empathy. His partner was very good at reading people.
Rowan then excused himself and headed to the kitchen.
Looking back at Emma, he smiled at her. "Its okay. Relax.†Cris gripped both her arms and looked into her big green eyes. She let out a breath and became a little more pliant in his grasp. Just a little. "I won't hurt you, Emma. " She nodded quickly. "I know, Sir.â€
"You know I think you can call me Cris.†Green eyes became wider. "When we are not at work.â€
Sullivan snorted then and relaxed a lot more in his grasp, her quick retort coming easily. "When are you not at work....Sir?†Her smile was still slightly crooked and reminded him a bit of the one he currently found more comfortable. "I mean Cris.â€
"I'm not working now.†Gently, he pulled her closer and simply hugged her to him. "Thank you for helping me with this mission." Cris whispered softly in her ear. "And thank you for coming to help me tonight. It means a lot to me that you care.â€
Emma nodded, he could feel it against the side of his uninjured cheek that brushed against one of her's. "You are a good leader. You take care of us, all of us, and we should take care of you too.â€
"You don't have to.†Cris reminded her quietly.
"I want to.†Emma said stubbornly and pressed herself more firmly against him, arching her neck invitingly. Her nervousness seemed to disappear and was replaced by that singular determination of her's. Now she had a goal and it was to give him blood. Cris suspected that she'd find a way to make him take it now even if he refused to bite her. Briefly he imagined her starting a blood drive and coming to Rowan with bags of blood from security team donations.
Best to save his partner from that particular hassle and drink directly from the source.
"If you are sure.†Cris did not wait for her to agree again. He pressed his lips to her neck, as he had with Alex, pausing long enough for her to become accustomed to the feel of his fangs pressing against her flesh. Then he sank his teeth slowly into her neck.
Emma shuddered in his grasp, relaxing completely with his first draw of her blood. A little 'oh' of pleasure escaped her and she clung to him tightly while he drank.
[You know, Love.] He sent to Rowan. [It is a bit awkward to be sitting here, drinking from a member of my crew, with my pants down around my thighs and with a hard on stiff enough to be used as a hammer.] It was difficult not to climax with the taste of Emma's blood but the short talk that they had before he drank was enough to quell some of the stronger sensations.
He moaned softly, pulling away from her after drinking enough to help his healing without injuring her. Cris pressed his lips to the tiny wounds, giving them a soft kiss. Hugging her tightly, he whispered another thank you before pulling away.
Then there was a knock on the door. Rowan stopped and Cris let out a shuddering sigh that was almost a sob. He had been right there. A few more strokes and all the knocking in the world would not have mattered.
Rowan pulled his blanket back around him and mumbled that they needed a 'do not disturb sign'. Cris laughed softly and thought that it would be a sound investment.
As he heard his lover open the door, Cris sent to him. [You know it is tempting for me to finish what you started while you are over there. Surely you could distract who ever that is for a few more moments.] He was not at all serious. Cris wanted Rowan to be there when he came or it just wasn't worth it to him, not even now. Not when he could have better...and he was determined that he would and soon.
Sullivan's voice could be heard from the entryway and Cris could make out her response about being grateful that the both of them also escaped their encounter alive, if not unharmed. She then told Rowan, in that fierce determined voice that she occasionally got when speaking of some goal that meant a lot to her, that they had even more to go on now and that they would catch this guy.
Soon she was standing in front of him, one hand fidgeting with the short trimmed, neatly manicured nails of the other hand. "I am sorry he got away, Sir.â€
Cris smiled up at her. "Me too, Sullivan.â€
"It won't happen next time. We'll...†He held up a hand to cut off the encouragement speech she was planning on giving him.
"Yes, I am sure we will.â€
"Right.†She smiled crookedly at him and then her brows furrowed into a frown. "You look like hell, Sir.â€
"Why thank you, Emma. I assure you I look much improved actually.†He glanced behind her to Rowan who looked more haggard than he had before they had showered. His partner really needed some sleep. "Was there something else?†Cris prodded gently.
"Oh†Emma blushed a bright red. "No†Then she squeezed the one hand tightly with the other and looked frustrated with herself. "I mean, no, I don't have anything to report. I just thought...†She looked down at him and then at the IV in his arm and the nearly empty bag of blood. "That maybe I could help...but I see that you have been taken care of...I†She looked back at Rowan and smiled. "You live with a doctor. How silly of me.â€
Cris reached out, biting back a wince as he leaned sideways, and took hold of her hand. "Emma†When he had her attention, he guided her gently to the edge of the sofa. "Your help would be greatly appreciated.â€
"Oh?†She looked at him uncertainly, as if he were lying to her to be polite and then would take her gift and hide it away in the closet somewhere and only bring it out whenever she came to visit. Why, yes, I love this knitted tissue box cozy with a bear on...oh its a cat...I love it, no really. How adorable and useful... Except that she was offering blood and that was hard to take without using. "Oh, well uhm...†She pushed her hair back from her neck and then leaned toward him rather haltingly, stiffly holding herself at an awkward angle to keep from accidentally touching him.
Why did humans think vampires needed to bite their necks? It was certainly convenient and generally more appropriate when you were romancing someone in order to feed from them but it was not the only body part available.
Cris sat up, and gently gathered Emma a little closer. She still sat rigidly in his grasp, willing but obviously uncomfortable with the arrangement. He checked her aura, several times, to make sure she was perfectly okay with what she was offering. It told him that she really very much wanted to help. She was nervous and embarrassed and somewhat intimidated.
He looked up to find Rowan giving him a look that communicated exactly how his partner still felt about the interruption, however well intentioned it might be. Cris smiled at him and sent. [I know. I will try to make it quick. I promise. This is just a big step for her and she's a little scared.] He was sure Rowan could see that even without using his empathy. His partner was very good at reading people.
Rowan then excused himself and headed to the kitchen.
Looking back at Emma, he smiled at her. "Its okay. Relax.†Cris gripped both her arms and looked into her big green eyes. She let out a breath and became a little more pliant in his grasp. Just a little. "I won't hurt you, Emma. " She nodded quickly. "I know, Sir.â€
"You know I think you can call me Cris.†Green eyes became wider. "When we are not at work.â€
Sullivan snorted then and relaxed a lot more in his grasp, her quick retort coming easily. "When are you not at work....Sir?†Her smile was still slightly crooked and reminded him a bit of the one he currently found more comfortable. "I mean Cris.â€
"I'm not working now.†Gently, he pulled her closer and simply hugged her to him. "Thank you for helping me with this mission." Cris whispered softly in her ear. "And thank you for coming to help me tonight. It means a lot to me that you care.â€
Emma nodded, he could feel it against the side of his uninjured cheek that brushed against one of her's. "You are a good leader. You take care of us, all of us, and we should take care of you too.â€
"You don't have to.†Cris reminded her quietly.
"I want to.†Emma said stubbornly and pressed herself more firmly against him, arching her neck invitingly. Her nervousness seemed to disappear and was replaced by that singular determination of her's. Now she had a goal and it was to give him blood. Cris suspected that she'd find a way to make him take it now even if he refused to bite her. Briefly he imagined her starting a blood drive and coming to Rowan with bags of blood from security team donations.
Best to save his partner from that particular hassle and drink directly from the source.
"If you are sure.†Cris did not wait for her to agree again. He pressed his lips to her neck, as he had with Alex, pausing long enough for her to become accustomed to the feel of his fangs pressing against her flesh. Then he sank his teeth slowly into her neck.
Emma shuddered in his grasp, relaxing completely with his first draw of her blood. A little 'oh' of pleasure escaped her and she clung to him tightly while he drank.
[You know, Love.] He sent to Rowan. [It is a bit awkward to be sitting here, drinking from a member of my crew, with my pants down around my thighs and with a hard on stiff enough to be used as a hammer.] It was difficult not to climax with the taste of Emma's blood but the short talk that they had before he drank was enough to quell some of the stronger sensations.
He moaned softly, pulling away from her after drinking enough to help his healing without injuring her. Cris pressed his lips to the tiny wounds, giving them a soft kiss. Hugging her tightly, he whispered another thank you before pulling away.
Rowan Murphy
12 years ago
Rowan didn't intend to remain in the living room with Cris while Emma was there. After he heard them talking and Emma's intentions became plain, he made himself scare with a last desperate pleading glance to Cris over Emma's head. He dropped a gentle hand on Emma's shoulder as he left, patting it gently and letting it slide off as he once more relegated himself to the kitchen.
Once there he leaned back against the counter again, with a long sigh. Could this day get any stranger? Everything felt all wrong, but with each passing hour it seemed to get better. Where had all of his energy gone, though? Oh, right. Used as a vampire trampoline. Then a nice adrenaline rush getting Cris back home, then frantically piecing his partner back together, then getting him home, watching over him while he slept, a nice long marathon of unfinished physical release, several interesting social calls.
Aha, that's where all his energy went.
Rowan chuckled to himself. Sometimes you just had to laugh because the other options weren't as fun. If he were any more of a pessimist maybe he'd have a harder time with this... but Rowan still believed they were going to win this one. He waited a few moments, smiling at Cris's voice in his head. Good humor restored, he felt completely fine about teasing his partner back.
[Wow, you're right Cris. That is awkward. But at least you don't have someone in your head, constantly reminding you of their mouth all over you and their hands stroking you, and the things they're about to do to you, oh, approximately three minutes from now. That could really make it uncomfortable.]
It took slightly longer than three minutes to thank Emma and get her to drink some juice, at least. Rowan did send her off with some of Eiryk's excellent coffee as well. He spent the entire time making damn sure Cris knew exactly what was going to happen when Rowan closed that door at last. When it clicked into place Rowan immediately turned and went back into the living room.
"Now," he said, a night's worth of weariness but more determination creeping into his voice than ever, "you are all mine."
He knelt once more. "I swear, if anyone so much as comes near that door they can wait until I've finished with you."
His eyes found Cris's though, even as he pulled the blanket back to expose his partner, hooking his fingers into the fabric of the light pants and pulling them down over Cris's ankles. "You know," Rowan said, lifting Cris's legs and settling them around his shoulders, "you're one of the most caring people I know. Maybe after tonight you can see just how loved you are, Cris."
Cris tended to think of himself as unapproachable, not a people person, cool and distant, and perhaps that was how he came off at a first impression although Rowan had not had that experience himself. This constant string of visitors and donors and well-wishers, though, had to awaken him somewhat to the fact that he was beloved by many.
Many, perhaps, but none so much as the redhead who knelt before him now. Rowan turned his head in to Cris's thigh and kissed it softly, enjoying the feel of warm skin over hard lean muscle. "You have such a beautiful soul, love. I'm always going to feel lucky that you chose to show it to me. More so that you decided to share it with me. I want to care for it forever."
He teased lightly with his tongue, ignoring Cris's erection for the moment to play over his balls, his thighs, and the hollows of his hips. Rowan wanted Cris completely ready, but his words were more than lip service. He truly felt that Cris was a better man than he claimed to be. Sixteen hundred years and he was still out to protect the world. He saw himself as the dutiful soldier, doing his duty by his Clan, but even if Cris weren't in the position he was in, Rowan could not see that ideal changing any. He was a guardian, a caretaker, and Rowan thought that they were very similar even though their approaches differed... as did their reasons. Cris was a natural protector; Rowan had had to learn to become one.
He moved slowly, thoughts flitting through his head as he stroked and teased, encouraging the rising passion to overcome his partner once more. He didn't want a quick, desperate release. He wanted it to feel right. His hands slid down Cris's thighs and he spread them over his lover's hips then underneath, cupping him gently and lifting him carefully. He bent down as he did, finally enclosing Cris's length in his mouth once more.
He moaned softly, shivering in pleasure at the taste and the feel of Cris in his hands, his arms, his mouth. This was a gesture Rowan loved, and he put all of that feeling and emotion into each touch as he slid down upon his partner again and again. Now, it would be right. Now he wanted everything Cris had to give, wanted to feel that delicious moment as his lover succumbed to pleasure and shuddered in Rowan's grasp.
He took Cris fully in, stroke after stroke, losing himself in the giving as well. Rowan tried to be careful not to grip his lover too tightly with his hands but it was difficult to focus when he was rapidly losing control of his own actions as well. All he knew, for the moment, was that he must have Cris.
Perhaps it was his imagination but he could swear he heard another knock on the door. It had to be his imagination... it couldn't possibly be. Even if it were, though, he wasn't going to abandon his partner yet again. Rowan was pretty sure wild horses couldn't drag him away at this point.
Once there he leaned back against the counter again, with a long sigh. Could this day get any stranger? Everything felt all wrong, but with each passing hour it seemed to get better. Where had all of his energy gone, though? Oh, right. Used as a vampire trampoline. Then a nice adrenaline rush getting Cris back home, then frantically piecing his partner back together, then getting him home, watching over him while he slept, a nice long marathon of unfinished physical release, several interesting social calls.
Aha, that's where all his energy went.
Rowan chuckled to himself. Sometimes you just had to laugh because the other options weren't as fun. If he were any more of a pessimist maybe he'd have a harder time with this... but Rowan still believed they were going to win this one. He waited a few moments, smiling at Cris's voice in his head. Good humor restored, he felt completely fine about teasing his partner back.
[Wow, you're right Cris. That is awkward. But at least you don't have someone in your head, constantly reminding you of their mouth all over you and their hands stroking you, and the things they're about to do to you, oh, approximately three minutes from now. That could really make it uncomfortable.]
It took slightly longer than three minutes to thank Emma and get her to drink some juice, at least. Rowan did send her off with some of Eiryk's excellent coffee as well. He spent the entire time making damn sure Cris knew exactly what was going to happen when Rowan closed that door at last. When it clicked into place Rowan immediately turned and went back into the living room.
"Now," he said, a night's worth of weariness but more determination creeping into his voice than ever, "you are all mine."
He knelt once more. "I swear, if anyone so much as comes near that door they can wait until I've finished with you."
His eyes found Cris's though, even as he pulled the blanket back to expose his partner, hooking his fingers into the fabric of the light pants and pulling them down over Cris's ankles. "You know," Rowan said, lifting Cris's legs and settling them around his shoulders, "you're one of the most caring people I know. Maybe after tonight you can see just how loved you are, Cris."
Cris tended to think of himself as unapproachable, not a people person, cool and distant, and perhaps that was how he came off at a first impression although Rowan had not had that experience himself. This constant string of visitors and donors and well-wishers, though, had to awaken him somewhat to the fact that he was beloved by many.
Many, perhaps, but none so much as the redhead who knelt before him now. Rowan turned his head in to Cris's thigh and kissed it softly, enjoying the feel of warm skin over hard lean muscle. "You have such a beautiful soul, love. I'm always going to feel lucky that you chose to show it to me. More so that you decided to share it with me. I want to care for it forever."
He teased lightly with his tongue, ignoring Cris's erection for the moment to play over his balls, his thighs, and the hollows of his hips. Rowan wanted Cris completely ready, but his words were more than lip service. He truly felt that Cris was a better man than he claimed to be. Sixteen hundred years and he was still out to protect the world. He saw himself as the dutiful soldier, doing his duty by his Clan, but even if Cris weren't in the position he was in, Rowan could not see that ideal changing any. He was a guardian, a caretaker, and Rowan thought that they were very similar even though their approaches differed... as did their reasons. Cris was a natural protector; Rowan had had to learn to become one.
He moved slowly, thoughts flitting through his head as he stroked and teased, encouraging the rising passion to overcome his partner once more. He didn't want a quick, desperate release. He wanted it to feel right. His hands slid down Cris's thighs and he spread them over his lover's hips then underneath, cupping him gently and lifting him carefully. He bent down as he did, finally enclosing Cris's length in his mouth once more.
He moaned softly, shivering in pleasure at the taste and the feel of Cris in his hands, his arms, his mouth. This was a gesture Rowan loved, and he put all of that feeling and emotion into each touch as he slid down upon his partner again and again. Now, it would be right. Now he wanted everything Cris had to give, wanted to feel that delicious moment as his lover succumbed to pleasure and shuddered in Rowan's grasp.
He took Cris fully in, stroke after stroke, losing himself in the giving as well. Rowan tried to be careful not to grip his lover too tightly with his hands but it was difficult to focus when he was rapidly losing control of his own actions as well. All he knew, for the moment, was that he must have Cris.
Perhaps it was his imagination but he could swear he heard another knock on the door. It had to be his imagination... it couldn't possibly be. Even if it were, though, he wasn't going to abandon his partner yet again. Rowan was pretty sure wild horses couldn't drag him away at this point.
Christian Bern
12 years ago
Emma was not exactly rushed out but she did not seem inclined to stay anyway. She scooted away when Rowan came into the room. Her cheeks turning a familiar shade of crimson. Rowan was quietly thanked for the juice and cookie. Emma ate a few bites, swallowed all the juice down and then said she should leave.
Meanwhile, Rowan was distracting him with plans for their next little stretch of alone time. Cris retorted with similar imagery, detailing exactly what he had enjoyed before their current guest and how much he was going to enjoy Rowan's attentions in the future.
Sullivan's stay lasted perhaps ten minutes or so and then they found themselves alone again.
He soon found himself de-blanketed and partially disrobed. Cris responded to the situation with outward calm, only raising an eyebrow at his lover's determination and renewed focus. Inwardly he very much approved of this new position and Rowan's stubborn assertion that this time there would be no more interruptions.
His lover then told him that he was a caring person and that he should see that people loved him. Cris shrugged. "I do not see what you are basing this information on. You observations seem to be biased." He smiled at Rowan and added. "I do know that since I have been with you that things have changed." People have been reminded, once very graphically by Rowan, that he was a person with needs and wants outside of his work. Cris would also admit to being much happier with Rowan around and that made for a kinder, gentler Chief of Security. He doubted he would win any Evenhet boss of the year awards but he had been a little more forgiving of late.
Cris smiled at Rowan and gently brushed his cheek. "I want you there to protect my soul always. I promise to do the same." He was determined to do everything he could to protect Rowan's soul and the rest of him as well.
Soon he was no good for protecting anyone or even thinking of protecting anyone. Rowan began slowly, touching and teasing him lightly until he was writhing and arching into each touch, yearning for something more.
Then, and only then, did his lover lift him up so that he could lean down over him. Cris moaned Rowan's name, his eyes closed and his hands sought stability by firmly grasping the edge of the sofa as Rowan's mouth slid down over his erection. His partner was relentless and the rising tide of passion so became overwhelming. Gasps and moans became more frequent, ending in a soft plea to divinity or perhaps an expression of gratitude for such a skilled lover. Either way, he came with Rowan's name upon his lips. The long awaited climax hit him so hard that Cris arched up off the sofa, his head thrown back and a silent scream of pleasure so intense that it was almost pain upon his lips.
Eventually he slumped backward, remembering to be careful mere moments before his back touched the furniture again. He felt exhausted, delirious and sated all at the same time.
"That was the best medicine I have ever had." Cris smiled lazily up at Rowan. "I might need more of it. Can you get me a lifetime prescription?"
There was a knock at the door. He looked at Rowan and then glanced sideways at the entrance. Cris couldn't help but chuckle. "I am never this popular while healthy. Knife fights with werewolves appears to do wonders for filling up a person's social calendar. Who knew?"
After several donations of blood and another bag from the IV, Cris was feeling much better than he had earlier this evening. He looked at the tube in his arm and then at himself.
"Here, help me unhook this." Cris reached down and picked up his pants. "I will go clean myself up in the downstairs bathroom, while you answer the door." He could get his clothes back on and in order while he was in there. "I promise not to run any marathons while you are not looking." At this point Rowan seemed in worse shape than he was. His injuries were still painful and more severe but Rowan was in desperate need of some more blood and some sleep, especially the sleep.
Meanwhile, Rowan was distracting him with plans for their next little stretch of alone time. Cris retorted with similar imagery, detailing exactly what he had enjoyed before their current guest and how much he was going to enjoy Rowan's attentions in the future.
Sullivan's stay lasted perhaps ten minutes or so and then they found themselves alone again.
He soon found himself de-blanketed and partially disrobed. Cris responded to the situation with outward calm, only raising an eyebrow at his lover's determination and renewed focus. Inwardly he very much approved of this new position and Rowan's stubborn assertion that this time there would be no more interruptions.
His lover then told him that he was a caring person and that he should see that people loved him. Cris shrugged. "I do not see what you are basing this information on. You observations seem to be biased." He smiled at Rowan and added. "I do know that since I have been with you that things have changed." People have been reminded, once very graphically by Rowan, that he was a person with needs and wants outside of his work. Cris would also admit to being much happier with Rowan around and that made for a kinder, gentler Chief of Security. He doubted he would win any Evenhet boss of the year awards but he had been a little more forgiving of late.
Cris smiled at Rowan and gently brushed his cheek. "I want you there to protect my soul always. I promise to do the same." He was determined to do everything he could to protect Rowan's soul and the rest of him as well.
Soon he was no good for protecting anyone or even thinking of protecting anyone. Rowan began slowly, touching and teasing him lightly until he was writhing and arching into each touch, yearning for something more.
Then, and only then, did his lover lift him up so that he could lean down over him. Cris moaned Rowan's name, his eyes closed and his hands sought stability by firmly grasping the edge of the sofa as Rowan's mouth slid down over his erection. His partner was relentless and the rising tide of passion so became overwhelming. Gasps and moans became more frequent, ending in a soft plea to divinity or perhaps an expression of gratitude for such a skilled lover. Either way, he came with Rowan's name upon his lips. The long awaited climax hit him so hard that Cris arched up off the sofa, his head thrown back and a silent scream of pleasure so intense that it was almost pain upon his lips.
Eventually he slumped backward, remembering to be careful mere moments before his back touched the furniture again. He felt exhausted, delirious and sated all at the same time.
"That was the best medicine I have ever had." Cris smiled lazily up at Rowan. "I might need more of it. Can you get me a lifetime prescription?"
There was a knock at the door. He looked at Rowan and then glanced sideways at the entrance. Cris couldn't help but chuckle. "I am never this popular while healthy. Knife fights with werewolves appears to do wonders for filling up a person's social calendar. Who knew?"
After several donations of blood and another bag from the IV, Cris was feeling much better than he had earlier this evening. He looked at the tube in his arm and then at himself.
"Here, help me unhook this." Cris reached down and picked up his pants. "I will go clean myself up in the downstairs bathroom, while you answer the door." He could get his clothes back on and in order while he was in there. "I promise not to run any marathons while you are not looking." At this point Rowan seemed in worse shape than he was. His injuries were still painful and more severe but Rowan was in desperate need of some more blood and some sleep, especially the sleep.
Rowan Murphy
12 years ago
It was easy to lose himself in Cris's pleasure, and Rowan did it wholeheartedly. Each little taste and touch stoked his own desire, but his would simply have to wait for now. Everything he did at the moment was for Cris and even though he was concentrating on driving his partner crazy, Rowan was also being very careful not to hurt him. He suspected Cris wouldn't feel it, though, for his lover was moving in his embrace with the desperation of a man on the brink of rapture.
Rowan moaned in pleasure himself as he felt Cris tense in his arms. His heart soared as he rode out that stunning climax along with his partner, closing his eyes and drowning in the sensations of taste, touch and smell that wrapped around him. As he helped ease Cris back onto the couch, pulling himself away with a little sigh, he looked at the expression on Cris's face and knew that every interruption, every minute of agony had been worth it. He'd probably sell the soul Cris had just promised to protect to keep that beautiful, lazy, satisfied smile on Cris's lips.
Rowan moved up toward the end of the couch where Cris's head was after pressing one last soft kiss to his partner's thigh. He laughed softly at Cris's request and nodded as he bent down to press his cheek to Cris's. "You can have it anytime you want it," he said, unable to keep a grin from his lips. As he pressed another kiss to Cris's forehead there was yet another knock at the door, slightly more insistent, leading Rowan to believe he hadn't imagined it just a minute or so ago.
"I liked it better when you weren't popular," he muttered softly, but with good-natured humor.
He looked at the bag of blood, which was nearly empty again. In his heart he wanted to keep Cris on it so his partner wouldn't know any more discomfort than absolutely necessary but the truth was, Cris was doing much better and these bags of blood were desperately needed by other humans, too. So at Cris's request Rowan nodded and gently peeled away the adhesive on his lover's arm.
"I think you'll be okay without," he said, smiling. He gently removed the IV catheter from Cris's arm and held his finger over it for a few seconds. Then he helped Cris to his feet and made sure his partner was steady enough before letting him go. "Let me know if you need me, love," he said. "Take it slow."
As Cris made his way to the tiny guest bathroom Rowan looked down at himself, sighed, and shrugged his blanket back over his shoulders once again. He headed to the door and opened it to see someone turning away.
"Hi there," he said, getting the person's attention. "What can I do... for..."
His voice trailed off as the man turned and Rowan found himself staring at someone he hadn't expected to see in Nachton in a million years.
"Henri?"
Rowan moaned in pleasure himself as he felt Cris tense in his arms. His heart soared as he rode out that stunning climax along with his partner, closing his eyes and drowning in the sensations of taste, touch and smell that wrapped around him. As he helped ease Cris back onto the couch, pulling himself away with a little sigh, he looked at the expression on Cris's face and knew that every interruption, every minute of agony had been worth it. He'd probably sell the soul Cris had just promised to protect to keep that beautiful, lazy, satisfied smile on Cris's lips.
Rowan moved up toward the end of the couch where Cris's head was after pressing one last soft kiss to his partner's thigh. He laughed softly at Cris's request and nodded as he bent down to press his cheek to Cris's. "You can have it anytime you want it," he said, unable to keep a grin from his lips. As he pressed another kiss to Cris's forehead there was yet another knock at the door, slightly more insistent, leading Rowan to believe he hadn't imagined it just a minute or so ago.
"I liked it better when you weren't popular," he muttered softly, but with good-natured humor.
He looked at the bag of blood, which was nearly empty again. In his heart he wanted to keep Cris on it so his partner wouldn't know any more discomfort than absolutely necessary but the truth was, Cris was doing much better and these bags of blood were desperately needed by other humans, too. So at Cris's request Rowan nodded and gently peeled away the adhesive on his lover's arm.
"I think you'll be okay without," he said, smiling. He gently removed the IV catheter from Cris's arm and held his finger over it for a few seconds. Then he helped Cris to his feet and made sure his partner was steady enough before letting him go. "Let me know if you need me, love," he said. "Take it slow."
As Cris made his way to the tiny guest bathroom Rowan looked down at himself, sighed, and shrugged his blanket back over his shoulders once again. He headed to the door and opened it to see someone turning away.
"Hi there," he said, getting the person's attention. "What can I do... for..."
His voice trailed off as the man turned and Rowan found himself staring at someone he hadn't expected to see in Nachton in a million years.
"Henri?"
Henri
12 years ago
Henri knocked twice at the door. He'd been told this was where Christian Bern lived, and that he'd been injured on the job and was currently in the care of one Dr. Rowan Murphy, who would likely also be here. He could kill two birds with one stone, as Chief Bern was the one who'd contacted him several days ago to let him know Rowan might be in trouble and he'd meant to find him, too.
But perhaps they couldn't hear the door, or Rowan simply had his hands full in caring for Mr. Bern. Henri didn't care to speculate. Instead, he figured he'd see about finding a place to stay either here or at a nearby hotel, and come back later. Just as he turned away, however, the door to the apartment opened and a familiar voice greeted him, trailing off in confusion as he turned back around.
Henri raised his eyebrows at Rowan. "Indeed," he said, confirming his identity to the one person here in Nachton who ought to recognize him.
Rowan opened the door further and Henri tilted his head sideways, curious. Rowan's face was pale. There were dark circles under his eyes, and a set of healing scars under one. He was clutching a blanket around himself as if he'd just rolled out of bed.
"I can understand your confusion," Henri said after a very long pause, "but perhaps you might let me inside and I can greet you properly without standing in a hallway?"
Rowan blinked at him and moved away from the doorway, glancing back over his shoulder into the apartment. "Come in," he said somewhat faintly.
"Why thank you. I will," Henri replied, brown eyes twinkling with humor.
Inside, his mind was working. Rowan generally did not tend to sick vampires or humans wrapped in a blanket with pajama bottoms peeking out from the hem of it. So he clearly knew Christian Bern outside of a formal capacity. Stepping into the dimly-lit apartment, Henri looked around and was surprised to see familiar items here and there. He had known Rowan for ages; he knew Rowan's things, and some of these definitely belonged to Rowan.
Suddenly a years' worth of veiled suggestions and vague hints dropped in neatly handwritten letters became abundantly clear to Henri. He looked at Rowan and wondered if his eyebrows could go much higher.
"You and Chief Bern must share similar tastes," he said mildly. "Is he here? I'd like to pay my respects. And then, I think we will have a lot to talk about."
Rowan was speechless on very few occasions. Having surprised him into silence, Henri was going to milk it for all it was worth.
((ooc: all dialogue in French))
But perhaps they couldn't hear the door, or Rowan simply had his hands full in caring for Mr. Bern. Henri didn't care to speculate. Instead, he figured he'd see about finding a place to stay either here or at a nearby hotel, and come back later. Just as he turned away, however, the door to the apartment opened and a familiar voice greeted him, trailing off in confusion as he turned back around.
Henri raised his eyebrows at Rowan. "Indeed," he said, confirming his identity to the one person here in Nachton who ought to recognize him.
Rowan opened the door further and Henri tilted his head sideways, curious. Rowan's face was pale. There were dark circles under his eyes, and a set of healing scars under one. He was clutching a blanket around himself as if he'd just rolled out of bed.
"I can understand your confusion," Henri said after a very long pause, "but perhaps you might let me inside and I can greet you properly without standing in a hallway?"
Rowan blinked at him and moved away from the doorway, glancing back over his shoulder into the apartment. "Come in," he said somewhat faintly.
"Why thank you. I will," Henri replied, brown eyes twinkling with humor.
Inside, his mind was working. Rowan generally did not tend to sick vampires or humans wrapped in a blanket with pajama bottoms peeking out from the hem of it. So he clearly knew Christian Bern outside of a formal capacity. Stepping into the dimly-lit apartment, Henri looked around and was surprised to see familiar items here and there. He had known Rowan for ages; he knew Rowan's things, and some of these definitely belonged to Rowan.
Suddenly a years' worth of veiled suggestions and vague hints dropped in neatly handwritten letters became abundantly clear to Henri. He looked at Rowan and wondered if his eyebrows could go much higher.
"You and Chief Bern must share similar tastes," he said mildly. "Is he here? I'd like to pay my respects. And then, I think we will have a lot to talk about."
Rowan was speechless on very few occasions. Having surprised him into silence, Henri was going to milk it for all it was worth.
((ooc: all dialogue in French))
Christian Bern
12 years ago
It took longer to hear voices out in the living room which made Cris wonder if Rowan was trying to convince who ever had shown up that they really needed to come back another time.
Then there was movement and the soft lilt of French being spoken. Rowan's interesting accent wrapped around the words in a way that was striking and beautifully unique. Cris was thrilled that his lover did not lose that quality in any language. The other voice was definitely a native of France.
That made it likely to be only one person.
Of all the days for Henri to show up...he chose to come on the day that all hell broke loose. It probably looked like he was doing a terrible job protecting Henri's only child. He was banged up and so was Rowan and right now Henri's son looked like he could use a week's worth of sleep. Stellar job as a bodyguard, Crispin, however did you manage to become the Chief of Security? Sometimes he wondered.
Once more dressed, Cris ran his fingers through his hair so that he did not look quite so freshly tumbled. He smiled at the reflection in the mirror. Yes, he needed more of Rowan's alternative medicine. Healing from injuries had never been this wonderful.
Straightening his pajamas, while wishing for a suit, Cris headed back to the living room.
"Bonsoir, Henri." Cris nodded his head to the man that he had met only once or twice while visiting Evenhet security in France. "It is good that you are here."
Then there was movement and the soft lilt of French being spoken. Rowan's interesting accent wrapped around the words in a way that was striking and beautifully unique. Cris was thrilled that his lover did not lose that quality in any language. The other voice was definitely a native of France.
That made it likely to be only one person.
Of all the days for Henri to show up...he chose to come on the day that all hell broke loose. It probably looked like he was doing a terrible job protecting Henri's only child. He was banged up and so was Rowan and right now Henri's son looked like he could use a week's worth of sleep. Stellar job as a bodyguard, Crispin, however did you manage to become the Chief of Security? Sometimes he wondered.
Once more dressed, Cris ran his fingers through his hair so that he did not look quite so freshly tumbled. He smiled at the reflection in the mirror. Yes, he needed more of Rowan's alternative medicine. Healing from injuries had never been this wonderful.
Straightening his pajamas, while wishing for a suit, Cris headed back to the living room.
"Bonsoir, Henri." Cris nodded his head to the man that he had met only once or twice while visiting Evenhet security in France. "It is good that you are here."
Rowan Murphy
12 years ago
Rowan was still trying to figure out how Henri had appeared here in Nachton at Cris's front door while his Creator stood there with a smug 'I just got the drop on Rowan' expression on his face. He let Henri into their home feeling as if he'd walked straight into a dream. He wasn't dim enough to wonder what Henri was doing here; Rowan might not solve murder mysteries but he did solve physiological ones so he had a reasonably decent analytical mind. Henri was here because Rowan was in trouble. Only one person he knew would have contacted his Creator to tell him what was happening... Henri's information network was good, but Rowan doubted it was so good that Henri had learned this news without help.
"Yes, he's here," Rowan said in response to Henri. "And we do. Many of them. But not too many."
Cris rejoined them with an utter lack of surprise upon his face, which only helped confirm Rowan's guess. Not that Cris was generally prone to large open displays of shock, but he was at home, he was slightly tired, and Rowan was used to seeing little bits of expressions here and there from his lover. They weren't present now.
Rowan opened his blanket up and thought wryly to himself that at least Henri's arrival had acted as a complete buzz-kill insofar as his arousal was concerned. Over the course of their centuries together he and Henri had been many things to each other but their relationship had never been anything but platonic. While Henri had definitely influenced Rowan's growth in every way including the sexual, they had never been intimate with each other and Rowan simply couldn't see his Creator in that light. At least he was safe in dropping the blanket now... but he didn't. Instead he extended his blanket-clad arm and slipped it around Cris's waist, beneath the injuries his partner had sustained so as not to hurt him. Cris seemed fairly steady now but Rowan wanted him to know he was there to lean on if he needed to.
"Obviously you've met," Rowan said, glancing from Henri to Cris. "Introductions seem redundant. Can I get you some coffee, Henri? Wine?"
Was he really standing here offering Henri a drink in Cris's living room? Then another thought hit him. Why was Henri here at all anyway? It wasn't like he was dying of some random vampire disease or something. Sure, there was some trouble currently, but Rowan had been in plenty of trouble before, and Henri had let him sort it out.
"So... what exactly has you in Nachton?"
Right after he said it he sighed at himself. Well, that was a stupid question, Rowan. But he couldn't take it back so there it was.
"Yes, he's here," Rowan said in response to Henri. "And we do. Many of them. But not too many."
Cris rejoined them with an utter lack of surprise upon his face, which only helped confirm Rowan's guess. Not that Cris was generally prone to large open displays of shock, but he was at home, he was slightly tired, and Rowan was used to seeing little bits of expressions here and there from his lover. They weren't present now.
Rowan opened his blanket up and thought wryly to himself that at least Henri's arrival had acted as a complete buzz-kill insofar as his arousal was concerned. Over the course of their centuries together he and Henri had been many things to each other but their relationship had never been anything but platonic. While Henri had definitely influenced Rowan's growth in every way including the sexual, they had never been intimate with each other and Rowan simply couldn't see his Creator in that light. At least he was safe in dropping the blanket now... but he didn't. Instead he extended his blanket-clad arm and slipped it around Cris's waist, beneath the injuries his partner had sustained so as not to hurt him. Cris seemed fairly steady now but Rowan wanted him to know he was there to lean on if he needed to.
"Obviously you've met," Rowan said, glancing from Henri to Cris. "Introductions seem redundant. Can I get you some coffee, Henri? Wine?"
Was he really standing here offering Henri a drink in Cris's living room? Then another thought hit him. Why was Henri here at all anyway? It wasn't like he was dying of some random vampire disease or something. Sure, there was some trouble currently, but Rowan had been in plenty of trouble before, and Henri had let him sort it out.
"So... what exactly has you in Nachton?"
Right after he said it he sighed at himself. Well, that was a stupid question, Rowan. But he couldn't take it back so there it was.
Henri
12 years ago
Henri followed Rowan into the home he very clearly shared with Christian Bern. He looked around, taking in the decoration, the layout, everything that seemed like it wasn't entirely Rowan. Yet, Rowan's signature was here.
Christian appeared from down a hallway and Henri turned to look at him. "Good evening, Chief Bern," he said respectfully. Regardless of the relationship between Christian and Rowan, Mr. Bern was Henri's superior and he would continue to address him as such until otherwise requested.
"I'm sorry to hear about your accident," he said, raising his hand to indicate his face, corresponding with the scars on Christian's. "Please let me know if I can help."
It was only natural to him to offer; whatever he could do he would, not just because this was his ultimate boss but because clearly Christian meant something to Rowan. That something was very apparent upon Rowan's face as he leaned in close to Christian and slipped a supportive arm around the smaller man's waist. It wasn't the gesture that was a surprise as much as the expression on Rowan's face, which was as open and honest as Henri had ever seen.
He addressed everyone's questions in turn, walking a little further into the living room. Clearly both men were a bit under the weather, but no one seemed like they weren't up to company. "It is good to be here," Henri said. "Different from Paris, but change is good, no?"
Smiling at Rowan Henri shook his head. "No, thank you Ruan. I'm fine. I came here for you, of course. I am contacted by someone concerned for your welfare, he tells me you may be in some trouble and I came. To support you. To help where I can."
Henri shrugged his shoulders and smiled. "I can't stay in Paris always."
He attempted to remain as innocent as possible while he said it; Rowan had tried to get him out of France for ages, with Henri stubbornly digging his heels in and refusing to go anywhere. He regretted that it took a personal crisis to get him to visit; when this all blew over he had resolved not to be a complete stranger to Nachton, if this was where Rowan had decided to put down roots - and Rowan's letters were all very clear on that score.
"Please. Do not stand on my account," Henri said to the two men whose living room he was invading and who both looked like they could certainly sit some. "If I have interrupted anything I can come back tomorrow night. I still need to make arrangements for my stay here."
Christian appeared from down a hallway and Henri turned to look at him. "Good evening, Chief Bern," he said respectfully. Regardless of the relationship between Christian and Rowan, Mr. Bern was Henri's superior and he would continue to address him as such until otherwise requested.
"I'm sorry to hear about your accident," he said, raising his hand to indicate his face, corresponding with the scars on Christian's. "Please let me know if I can help."
It was only natural to him to offer; whatever he could do he would, not just because this was his ultimate boss but because clearly Christian meant something to Rowan. That something was very apparent upon Rowan's face as he leaned in close to Christian and slipped a supportive arm around the smaller man's waist. It wasn't the gesture that was a surprise as much as the expression on Rowan's face, which was as open and honest as Henri had ever seen.
He addressed everyone's questions in turn, walking a little further into the living room. Clearly both men were a bit under the weather, but no one seemed like they weren't up to company. "It is good to be here," Henri said. "Different from Paris, but change is good, no?"
Smiling at Rowan Henri shook his head. "No, thank you Ruan. I'm fine. I came here for you, of course. I am contacted by someone concerned for your welfare, he tells me you may be in some trouble and I came. To support you. To help where I can."
Henri shrugged his shoulders and smiled. "I can't stay in Paris always."
He attempted to remain as innocent as possible while he said it; Rowan had tried to get him out of France for ages, with Henri stubbornly digging his heels in and refusing to go anywhere. He regretted that it took a personal crisis to get him to visit; when this all blew over he had resolved not to be a complete stranger to Nachton, if this was where Rowan had decided to put down roots - and Rowan's letters were all very clear on that score.
"Please. Do not stand on my account," Henri said to the two men whose living room he was invading and who both looked like they could certainly sit some. "If I have interrupted anything I can come back tomorrow night. I still need to make arrangements for my stay here."
Christian Bern
12 years ago
Cris smiled at Henri and shook his head. "Thank you for the offer but honestly there have been plenty tonight." [Far too many if you ask me] He added that little bit to Rowan. "However," Cris turned to look at his partner. "Rowan could stand some." He gave his redhead a steady look that had a hint of stubbornness beneath it. "If he is unwilling then I suggest we team up and hold him down." He would be hard pressed to accomplish this feat in his current condition but he was hoping that Rowan would not make him try, because he would try if it came to it.
Rowan slid his arm around his waist and Cris moved closer, wrapping his own around Rowan's back beneath the blanket. [I am no doctor but I do know a thing or two about working right up to your limits and you have done that. I know you do not want to leave me so please drink from Henri.] And then after a little chat he could tuck Rowan in and make sure he got some sleep. Sure, his lover might have to help him get up the stairs but he was feeling healthy enough now to lift a few blankets, run his fingers through Rowan's hair and sing him a lullaby (or whatever pre-sleep ritual his companion might prefer).
He nodded to Henri when the man mentioned them sitting and moved back over to the sofa, making his intention clear to his partner and taking his warm walking support with him.
Once they were settled with Rowan's blanket wrapped around their shoulders, he handed one end of his own blanket to his partner so they could spread it over their legs. Leaning against Rowan, he turned his attention to Henri. "I have a guest bedroom. You are welcome to stay here for the night or however long you wish." He turned and looked at Rowan to make sure that was equally agreeable to his partner but suspected that it was. Henri was family to Rowan and that made him very important to Cris. He understood though if Henri wished to have a temporary place of his own while staying in Nachton. He would certainly feel that way and, if Aishe and Kem moved to another city, then he might insist on a hotel if he were staying more than a week with them. There was just something about having some privacy that was imperative as far as he was concerned.
Looking from one man to the other, Cris waited to see who would begin the talking. Either way, he figured it was not his place to initiate the sharing of information.
Rowan slid his arm around his waist and Cris moved closer, wrapping his own around Rowan's back beneath the blanket. [I am no doctor but I do know a thing or two about working right up to your limits and you have done that. I know you do not want to leave me so please drink from Henri.] And then after a little chat he could tuck Rowan in and make sure he got some sleep. Sure, his lover might have to help him get up the stairs but he was feeling healthy enough now to lift a few blankets, run his fingers through Rowan's hair and sing him a lullaby (or whatever pre-sleep ritual his companion might prefer).
He nodded to Henri when the man mentioned them sitting and moved back over to the sofa, making his intention clear to his partner and taking his warm walking support with him.
Once they were settled with Rowan's blanket wrapped around their shoulders, he handed one end of his own blanket to his partner so they could spread it over their legs. Leaning against Rowan, he turned his attention to Henri. "I have a guest bedroom. You are welcome to stay here for the night or however long you wish." He turned and looked at Rowan to make sure that was equally agreeable to his partner but suspected that it was. Henri was family to Rowan and that made him very important to Cris. He understood though if Henri wished to have a temporary place of his own while staying in Nachton. He would certainly feel that way and, if Aishe and Kem moved to another city, then he might insist on a hotel if he were staying more than a week with them. There was just something about having some privacy that was imperative as far as he was concerned.
Looking from one man to the other, Cris waited to see who would begin the talking. Either way, he figured it was not his place to initiate the sharing of information.
Henri
12 years ago
Henri was absolutely enchanted with the way Rowan and Cris interacted. He knew Rowan almost as well as he knew himself, or Renee, and he had never seen this behavior from his friend. Oh, Rowan was a gentleman, of that there was no doubt. He'd morphed into such by route of a sly charmer and had, after many years, actually become the real thing. Rowan was never rude to his partners, but never before had his every gesture spoken of such attentive devotion. Henri loved it. This was what he had always wanted for Rowan.
With Christian Bern, though? Who could have seen that coming? Oh, it wasn't the fact that Rowan was with another man and that that was Christian... Henri thought they'd all lived long enough to transcend the belief that love could only happen between different genders. But he had met Evenhet's head of security on a few occasions and he wouldn't have thought the two would get along so famously. He didn't know Christian very well at all, though, and he had seemed to Henri very dour and serious. Opposites did attract, so maybe it was a good match.
Rowan glanced down at Christian and smiled affectionately when it was suggestion that Rowan could use some blood. Predictably, Rowan shook his head. "Later, love," he said softly to Christian. "I promise, I'm fine for now."
Henri arched an eyebrow at Rowan, but Rowan shook his head at Henri. There was no point in arguing; Rowan was a big boy. If he said he would be fine for now, then he would be. Henri wasn't leaving yet; he would wear the redhead down eventually. Rowan could be annoyingly stubborn sometimes.
They all agreed that sitting down was a good idea; in Henri's opinion the two other men needed to. Christian seemed a little unsteady, and Rowan looked like he might just pass out in a second. Henri took command of one of the chairs while Rowan and his partner made themselves comfortable on the couch, nestled together beneath the blankets. Henri would have been lying if he'd said he wasn't tempted to go over there and tuck them in, especially with the way Christian leaned against Rowan and Rowan wrapped his arms around the blond as if it were the most natural thing to him.
Henri smiled at Christian's offer. "You know," he said, "I might just take you up on that. At least for tonight. It has been too long since I've seen Ruan, and perhaps I can be of some help."
As in, maybe his presence would be useful while Rowan was dead to the world, something that could not be far off by the looks of him. Henri looked at Rowan for a moment longer before settling back in his chair, crossing his legs, and resting his hands patiently on his lap.
"So Ruan," he said. "Tell me what has happened, that Chief Bern was worried about enough to tell me we should talk."
Henri's voice held no room for argument. But he knew his only child well. "And tell me the truth, straight up, not the cheap version you give to people you hardly know. I will know if you're lying."
He would, too. Rowan was an accomplished liar but Henri had taught him everything he knew.
With Christian Bern, though? Who could have seen that coming? Oh, it wasn't the fact that Rowan was with another man and that that was Christian... Henri thought they'd all lived long enough to transcend the belief that love could only happen between different genders. But he had met Evenhet's head of security on a few occasions and he wouldn't have thought the two would get along so famously. He didn't know Christian very well at all, though, and he had seemed to Henri very dour and serious. Opposites did attract, so maybe it was a good match.
Rowan glanced down at Christian and smiled affectionately when it was suggestion that Rowan could use some blood. Predictably, Rowan shook his head. "Later, love," he said softly to Christian. "I promise, I'm fine for now."
Henri arched an eyebrow at Rowan, but Rowan shook his head at Henri. There was no point in arguing; Rowan was a big boy. If he said he would be fine for now, then he would be. Henri wasn't leaving yet; he would wear the redhead down eventually. Rowan could be annoyingly stubborn sometimes.
They all agreed that sitting down was a good idea; in Henri's opinion the two other men needed to. Christian seemed a little unsteady, and Rowan looked like he might just pass out in a second. Henri took command of one of the chairs while Rowan and his partner made themselves comfortable on the couch, nestled together beneath the blankets. Henri would have been lying if he'd said he wasn't tempted to go over there and tuck them in, especially with the way Christian leaned against Rowan and Rowan wrapped his arms around the blond as if it were the most natural thing to him.
Henri smiled at Christian's offer. "You know," he said, "I might just take you up on that. At least for tonight. It has been too long since I've seen Ruan, and perhaps I can be of some help."
As in, maybe his presence would be useful while Rowan was dead to the world, something that could not be far off by the looks of him. Henri looked at Rowan for a moment longer before settling back in his chair, crossing his legs, and resting his hands patiently on his lap.
"So Ruan," he said. "Tell me what has happened, that Chief Bern was worried about enough to tell me we should talk."
Henri's voice held no room for argument. But he knew his only child well. "And tell me the truth, straight up, not the cheap version you give to people you hardly know. I will know if you're lying."
He would, too. Rowan was an accomplished liar but Henri had taught him everything he knew.
Rowan Murphy
12 years ago
It wasn't that Rowan didn't want more blood... he was just very happy to see Henri, and he really felt all right. More or less. [I have another 24 hours or so in me, dear one,] he sent to Cris. [I'm not going to fade to nothing. I promise, I just need you near right now. We'll get some sleep, and everything will be much better after that.]
Rowan smiled gratefully at Cris for his offer. He would love to have Henri stay with them; while his initial reaction might not have been terribly enthusiastic he really was happy to see Henri. There wasn't a ton of room in the guest room but Henri was not a large man. As they settled on the couch Rowan wrapped his arms around Cris and gently kissed his partner's head, sighing happily as Cris leaned against him.
Henri pinned him with a deceptively mild brown gaze. Rowan blinked at his Creator, and immediately bit back the cheerful brush-off that had formed on his lips. He didn't like serious topics to make occasions like this too solemn, but Henri had a point... this sort of was serious enough that Cris had felt the need to call his Creator.
"Well," he said, squirming a little uncomfortably at being unable to charm or suggest or otherwise talk his way out of this, "It's like this. I might have gotten a little more attention than I wanted of the wrong variety."
Slowly he told Henri the entire story, beginning with his witnessing of the murder of the previous victim, right up to the events of that evening. He didn't stop, even though he could tell Henri was burning with anger. His Creator was tense, his eyes were hard, his lips narrowed into a thin line.
Rowan sighed and burrowed deeper into the couch, taking comfort in having Cris nearby. Retelling the tale of the murders and the fires made him feel very unsettled; his hands ached as if they were newly burned. Finally he sighed and let go some of his own tension.
"I am very glad you came, Henri," he admitted. "I think we could use your help."
He rested his head against Cris's. Bad idea; sleep immediately loomed. Rowan lifted his head up again. "I'm not sure I know of anyone with quite the resources you have."
To Cris, he said, "I don't know if you've met Henri's friends, but they make excellent spies."
Rowan smiled gratefully at Cris for his offer. He would love to have Henri stay with them; while his initial reaction might not have been terribly enthusiastic he really was happy to see Henri. There wasn't a ton of room in the guest room but Henri was not a large man. As they settled on the couch Rowan wrapped his arms around Cris and gently kissed his partner's head, sighing happily as Cris leaned against him.
Henri pinned him with a deceptively mild brown gaze. Rowan blinked at his Creator, and immediately bit back the cheerful brush-off that had formed on his lips. He didn't like serious topics to make occasions like this too solemn, but Henri had a point... this sort of was serious enough that Cris had felt the need to call his Creator.
"Well," he said, squirming a little uncomfortably at being unable to charm or suggest or otherwise talk his way out of this, "It's like this. I might have gotten a little more attention than I wanted of the wrong variety."
Slowly he told Henri the entire story, beginning with his witnessing of the murder of the previous victim, right up to the events of that evening. He didn't stop, even though he could tell Henri was burning with anger. His Creator was tense, his eyes were hard, his lips narrowed into a thin line.
Rowan sighed and burrowed deeper into the couch, taking comfort in having Cris nearby. Retelling the tale of the murders and the fires made him feel very unsettled; his hands ached as if they were newly burned. Finally he sighed and let go some of his own tension.
"I am very glad you came, Henri," he admitted. "I think we could use your help."
He rested his head against Cris's. Bad idea; sleep immediately loomed. Rowan lifted his head up again. "I'm not sure I know of anyone with quite the resources you have."
To Cris, he said, "I don't know if you've met Henri's friends, but they make excellent spies."