"Saturday is perfect.†Gris smiled though Josh couldn't see it. They say smiles were noticeable even when someone couldn't see them; tonight he certainly hoped so. He was also hoping that if Saturday went well that there would be a Sunday. Josh was already rating three dates and they hadn't even finished the first one. The man next to him probably had no idea how rare that was. "We can meet in the morning when its cooler. I can pick you up if you like. Is 9 am okay?†It was the weekend and sleeping in was something that most people enjoyed so he didn't suggest anything earlier.
Even before Jocelyn had left the table Gris could feel a finger tracing its way lightly up his leg. He remained still and did his best not to murmur his appreciation.
Josh's response to his suggestion was wonderful; Gris shuddered slightly at the breath on his neck. He couldn't restrain a soft sigh when Josh nibbled on his ear. His companion pulled away and Gris found himself leaning in the direction of Josh, wanting more.
Straightening himself, Gris turned slightly and ran his hand up Josh's chest, smoothing it over the shirt past the collar and to his companion's neck. He tugged Josh back to him and favored him with a demanding kiss, one that contained the pent up passion that had been building up inside of him since...well since a very wet Josh had climbed into his car. Releasing his companion, he said. "Oh no, If I were truly trying to test your restraint you'd know.â€
Chuckling softly, Gris hugged Josh close with the hand that was still wrapped around him. "I think that is a very good idea. Healthy even.â€
He was somewhat surprised by the comment and the aggressive kiss he received in return. The massage therapy seemed like a good idea given his pressure point knowledge. It had been something of a use your powers for good idea. Gris actually rarely gave massages, not full ones. One night stands rarely rated that much energy expenditure on his part and he didn't have very many real friends that did either. It was not something he told many people; once a circle of friends knew then they all wanted a massage whenever they had the slightest cramp, kink or ache. It was annoying. So, he rarely told anyone. Gris wasn't sure why he mentioned it to Josh except that he really did feel the urge to spend that kind of time and energy on him.
Raising his eyebrows in the dark, Gris didn't have a response for Josh's words. He tried to figure out whether he was happy at such a confession, worried by it or simply confused. "Oh? Well I can promise you that not everyone gets the 'happy ending'.†He understood being possessive; he could be himself but he didn't consider Joshua to be his so that feeling had not truly been aroused. Except for when Josh told him that Melanie had been calling him but that was different; she didn't deserve him after what she had done.
"Why does it bother you?†He was intrigued. A part of him worried that Josh might be one of those crazy possessive people that never left you alone and wanted a full account of every moment you spent away from them. Gris tried to avoid those before he became the object of their obsession. Another part of him wouldn't mind Josh being a little possessive. It was an odd feeling, exciting and also a little worrisome. He liked Josh, wanted to see him again and more after that and now he didn't seem to mind a little jealousy aimed in his direction. This was...unusual.
A Few Shots in the Dark (Invite Only)
Josh rode passenger for the second time that night in Greer's sporty car. Only this time, he'd brought a towel to dry the leather seats with and even an umbrella so he wouldn't have a repeat. He'd left Mel's phone at the apartment with her and he turned his off during the drive here. He didn't want any interruptions; it would vibrate and he could screen his calls.
He was more than a little nervous. Josh was a workaholic, it was what he did. He took care of people. This felt suspiciously like a date all of a sudden, which might have been a good thing. Had it been planned, maybe he'd have chickened out and run the other way no matter how badly he'd wanted it. He didn't know. It was a harmless dinner for now, though, and he planned to enjoy Greer's company.
The restaurant was in an established building on the Strip. The building itself had a shop and a few apartments above it, with the restaurant located underground. Very convenient, when you hosted a place for dining in the dark. From the sidewalk they descended a very short flight of stairs into a foyer where their coats and Josh's umbrella were taken from them. Then they were given menus so they could order in the light.
Perusing the menu quickly Josh ordered tomato basil soup, chicken marsala with vegetables, and a napoleon. The menu items all came in threes - appetizer, entree, dessert. He briefly wondered how he was supposed to eat all of this when he couldn't see to use his utensils, but that was part of the experience. To learn what life was like without one of your major senses.
He noticed the very clear sign that informed him he was not to use his cell phone once inside for any reason. He slid his hand into his pocket and flicked it off altogether to avoid temptation. It made sense; not only would any light be very obvious in their dinner setting, but he wanted Gris to have his full attention. Not that the blond didn't anyway.
Their server introduced herself as Jocelyn and told them she had been blind from birth. She asked them to trust her and told them she would guide them through dinner. Josh suspected he and Gris could fumble through dinner on their own, and probably have fun doing so, but again this was the spirit of the place. When Jocelyn asked them to put their hands on her shoulders and follow one after the other, holding onto each other, Josh gestured to Gris to go in front of him.
He hesitated only a moment before resting his hands gently upon Gris's shoulders. As he did he gave in to temptation and let his hands brush gently against those unruly golden curls, diving beneath them to feel solid shoulders. He resisted the urge to squeeze them softly but he did, perhaps, 'accidentally' brush the sides of Greer's neck with his thumbs. Just an accident. Of course.
Then they were off, passing through two curtained doorways, each darker than the next, diving into the darkness of the underground windowless restaurant with no light whatsoever. Josh didn't feel the panic he had expected. Rather, he felt a little chill of excitement. He dropped his voice to a whisper since it seemed appropriate, leaning forward a bit to say to Gris, "I hope you don't mind scraping me off the ground when I miss my chair completely."
In truth, he was pretty sure he could manage to seat himself but oh, the possibilities. He let his mind wander away with them for a little bit.
Greer Grayson
12 years ago
Joshua Wesson
12 years ago
Gris's voice was warm when he confirmed that Saturday was good, and although Josh couldn't see it, he had the feeling his companion was smiling. He would have liked to see the expression on Gris's face but hopefully he would have many more opportunities to make him smile.
"9 is great," he said. He was an early riser; he would have been fine with any time Gris suggested. Earlier only meant more time to spend getting to know this fascinating man.
He enjoyed the insistent kiss he received from Gris. The more their lips touched, the more Josh found himself craving that delicious contact. He moaned very softly into that kiss, enjoying the taste and the feel of it just as much as he enjoyed Gris's confidence. Josh found the trait desirable and incredibly sexy, but it wasn't helping him regain his sense of restraint. Particularly when Gris uttered his next words.
Josh chuckled softly. "God help me then," he murmured, "because I'm no saint."
Of course, he could ruin it with his foolish words. Josh sighed at himself for saying what he'd said. He spread the fingers on the hand that rested on Gris's thigh, pressing reassuringly. He hadn't meant to come off sounding creepy and possessive. Was he possessive? Yes. He would admit that he was... but not in a 'need to know every move you made today' sort of way. He attempted to explain, before his own tongue murdered any chance of a potential future.
"It doesn't bother me," he clarified. "I think, actually, it's kind of hot. And I like knowing it about you." Did it make him a little jealous? Yes, but bother him, not really. All in all he thought it was a fairly healthy emotion, and more or less normal, to feel a small amount of jealousy at the idea that the object of your interest might be touching someone else the way you wanted to be touched.
"It just makes me want to fight harder to be the one you want to touch," he murmured, keeping his voice down. He lifted his shoulders slightly. That was how he felt. He couldn't make excuses for it.
He carefully pulled his hands away from Gris, letting him have his space, although he didn't slide away on the bench seat. Instead he rested one arm on the table and then put his chin in his hand.
"My job makes it difficult to maintain a relationship," he explained softly. "When you're always moving around it's difficult to commit to anyone, or expect them to do the same. So it's been a little while since I felt like I've met someone I was interested enough in to be with for more than a few nights."
Josh had tried it a few times over the years. Once, he'd had a decent relationship he'd thought would last, but that had been a while back and it hadn't worked out the way Josh had envisioned. Now he had another chance, and he regretted his poor choice of words might have set that chance back a few steps. Well, at least he'd been honest, and Josh thought that was probably more important than anything else.
He smiled to himself and reached out once more, wishing he could find Gris's hand but settling with his leg again.
"I don't think I can learn everything there is to know about you in a few nights, Greer Grayson."
"9 is great," he said. He was an early riser; he would have been fine with any time Gris suggested. Earlier only meant more time to spend getting to know this fascinating man.
He enjoyed the insistent kiss he received from Gris. The more their lips touched, the more Josh found himself craving that delicious contact. He moaned very softly into that kiss, enjoying the taste and the feel of it just as much as he enjoyed Gris's confidence. Josh found the trait desirable and incredibly sexy, but it wasn't helping him regain his sense of restraint. Particularly when Gris uttered his next words.
Josh chuckled softly. "God help me then," he murmured, "because I'm no saint."
Of course, he could ruin it with his foolish words. Josh sighed at himself for saying what he'd said. He spread the fingers on the hand that rested on Gris's thigh, pressing reassuringly. He hadn't meant to come off sounding creepy and possessive. Was he possessive? Yes. He would admit that he was... but not in a 'need to know every move you made today' sort of way. He attempted to explain, before his own tongue murdered any chance of a potential future.
"It doesn't bother me," he clarified. "I think, actually, it's kind of hot. And I like knowing it about you." Did it make him a little jealous? Yes, but bother him, not really. All in all he thought it was a fairly healthy emotion, and more or less normal, to feel a small amount of jealousy at the idea that the object of your interest might be touching someone else the way you wanted to be touched.
"It just makes me want to fight harder to be the one you want to touch," he murmured, keeping his voice down. He lifted his shoulders slightly. That was how he felt. He couldn't make excuses for it.
He carefully pulled his hands away from Gris, letting him have his space, although he didn't slide away on the bench seat. Instead he rested one arm on the table and then put his chin in his hand.
"My job makes it difficult to maintain a relationship," he explained softly. "When you're always moving around it's difficult to commit to anyone, or expect them to do the same. So it's been a little while since I felt like I've met someone I was interested enough in to be with for more than a few nights."
Josh had tried it a few times over the years. Once, he'd had a decent relationship he'd thought would last, but that had been a while back and it hadn't worked out the way Josh had envisioned. Now he had another chance, and he regretted his poor choice of words might have set that chance back a few steps. Well, at least he'd been honest, and Josh thought that was probably more important than anything else.
He smiled to himself and reached out once more, wishing he could find Gris's hand but settling with his leg again.
"I don't think I can learn everything there is to know about you in a few nights, Greer Grayson."
Greer Grayson
12 years ago
Gris was grateful to hear that Josh was not a saint. He suspected that saints were dreadfully boring in the sack. Serious corrupting could wait until tomorrow or at least when they were no longer in the restaurant. They might be too old to be snogging in a car but he would be willing. Joshua might find that more appealing than the two of them going back to his shared space with Gretta. Certainly he had his own room but some people weren't comfortable having sex when other people, not involved, were around to overhear it or at least know what was likely going on.
Joshua explained that the massage knowledge didn't bother him but made him want to work harder to be the one he wanted to touch. Gris did exactly that by favoring his companion with another squeeze, leaning his head on his shoulder for a moment. "You are definitely on the top of a very very short list.â€
He didn't say that the others were only friends, thinking a little healthy competitive streak might be nice. Kiyo, Evan and probably Tavi were on that short list. He and the bright haired detective had hung out and played video games a few times in the common room. Several times they had sat on the balcony with drinks and talked about things. Life, work, the pack, and even family. Gris realized that his fight for a place in his pack and the troubles he had with his family paled compared to the alpha's daughter, a born werewolf since the day of her birth; she and her brother had the eyes of the entire pack on them, watching and judging. He and Tavi really seemed to understand each other. Gris wished Kiyo spent more time in their ward so that he could hang out with them more often.
Josh explained that his job had him traveling often and that because of such mobility he had not been in a position to have a relationship that was lasting. That was why Gris had relationships that weren't, lots of them. At least that was one of the reasons. Josh pulled away from him and Gris wondered for a moment why. He thought back through the conversation and then thought he understood; Josh was worried he had come on too strongly, too quickly. If he hadn't explained and if he hadn't understood and kept pushing then maybe it would have been too strong; certainly men had been pushy with him in the past, and it usually killed their chances but most of the time they also could not see how their own behavior was perceived and kept going to the point where he wanted to push back or leave.
He had long ago accepted that his desires and his nature were complicated. The man in him occasionally wanted to find someone strong enough to be in control, to let him simply let go. The wolf in him fought that nature and often won. It took someone special for him to even consider such a thing without feeling that he was being weak. Gris had tried to let someone 'dominate' him before when feeling desperate for that special connection that submitting could bring but more often than not he couldn't do it or he felt guilty with himself afterward. Bowing down to someone not worthy of it was not something he could easily do. It made him feel dirty.
Feeling Josh's change in position, Gris leaned forward slowly and found his companion's neck. Giving it a light tender kiss, he said. "I think I would like you to keep fighting for that position. You are going to be around to continue claiming the prize though, right?†Josh had said he traveled constantly, Gris realized that he didn't like that, not at all. It hit him then that he had decided to stay; had told Kiyoshi that he was planning on making Nachton his home for a while. He had more of a place here than anywhere else he had ever been and with his current friends in the pack he might be able to make a place for himself. If he could do that... then he might be able to find someone special, someone worth explaining his nature to, someone worth standing up to his family's expectations for... It was a heady realization. He sat back in the booth and leaned his head back against the seat. The thought made him excited and hopeful; the present company made the possibility seem real.
Gris realized he was trembling. The adrenaline rush was surprising. He wished he had ordered a glass of wine.
Josh's hand settled on his leg again, Gris covered it with his own hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. "No, I will admit to being complicated.†He brought the hand up to his lips and kissed the back of it and then set it back on his leg. "But, I would like it if you would stick with it.â€
Jocelyn came back with their desserts. She sat them down on the table and said that when they were ready to leave then they could call her and she would come and lead them back to the lighted entrance where they could pay their bill.
Joshua explained that the massage knowledge didn't bother him but made him want to work harder to be the one he wanted to touch. Gris did exactly that by favoring his companion with another squeeze, leaning his head on his shoulder for a moment. "You are definitely on the top of a very very short list.â€
He didn't say that the others were only friends, thinking a little healthy competitive streak might be nice. Kiyo, Evan and probably Tavi were on that short list. He and the bright haired detective had hung out and played video games a few times in the common room. Several times they had sat on the balcony with drinks and talked about things. Life, work, the pack, and even family. Gris realized that his fight for a place in his pack and the troubles he had with his family paled compared to the alpha's daughter, a born werewolf since the day of her birth; she and her brother had the eyes of the entire pack on them, watching and judging. He and Tavi really seemed to understand each other. Gris wished Kiyo spent more time in their ward so that he could hang out with them more often.
Josh explained that his job had him traveling often and that because of such mobility he had not been in a position to have a relationship that was lasting. That was why Gris had relationships that weren't, lots of them. At least that was one of the reasons. Josh pulled away from him and Gris wondered for a moment why. He thought back through the conversation and then thought he understood; Josh was worried he had come on too strongly, too quickly. If he hadn't explained and if he hadn't understood and kept pushing then maybe it would have been too strong; certainly men had been pushy with him in the past, and it usually killed their chances but most of the time they also could not see how their own behavior was perceived and kept going to the point where he wanted to push back or leave.
He had long ago accepted that his desires and his nature were complicated. The man in him occasionally wanted to find someone strong enough to be in control, to let him simply let go. The wolf in him fought that nature and often won. It took someone special for him to even consider such a thing without feeling that he was being weak. Gris had tried to let someone 'dominate' him before when feeling desperate for that special connection that submitting could bring but more often than not he couldn't do it or he felt guilty with himself afterward. Bowing down to someone not worthy of it was not something he could easily do. It made him feel dirty.
Feeling Josh's change in position, Gris leaned forward slowly and found his companion's neck. Giving it a light tender kiss, he said. "I think I would like you to keep fighting for that position. You are going to be around to continue claiming the prize though, right?†Josh had said he traveled constantly, Gris realized that he didn't like that, not at all. It hit him then that he had decided to stay; had told Kiyoshi that he was planning on making Nachton his home for a while. He had more of a place here than anywhere else he had ever been and with his current friends in the pack he might be able to make a place for himself. If he could do that... then he might be able to find someone special, someone worth explaining his nature to, someone worth standing up to his family's expectations for... It was a heady realization. He sat back in the booth and leaned his head back against the seat. The thought made him excited and hopeful; the present company made the possibility seem real.
Gris realized he was trembling. The adrenaline rush was surprising. He wished he had ordered a glass of wine.
Josh's hand settled on his leg again, Gris covered it with his own hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. "No, I will admit to being complicated.†He brought the hand up to his lips and kissed the back of it and then set it back on his leg. "But, I would like it if you would stick with it.â€
Jocelyn came back with their desserts. She sat them down on the table and said that when they were ready to leave then they could call her and she would come and lead them back to the lighted entrance where they could pay their bill.
Joshua Wesson
12 years ago
Josh's explanation seemed to satisfy Gris. It was a blessing; Josh knew Gris's understanding, kind nature was to thank for the fact that he still had a dinner companion at all. It seemed a miracle, to him, when Gris leaned in and rested his head on Josh's shoulder for a moment. Perhaps not a miracle... but definitely a relief.
Gris listened quietly when Josh explained about his position. There was more to say about it but the time and place were not right. Instead, Josh turned back toward Gris when he felt him draw close again. Gris's lips touched his neck and Josh shivered pleasantly. He raised his hand and let it fall upon those soft, abundant curls. Emotions were strong. He really did feel a desire to protect this man, to hold him, to understand him, and to be the one he turned to.
Gris asked if he would be around and Josh nodded, then realized Gris couldn't see it. Interesting, how he had begun to adjust to the darkness. It didn't bother him now, not that it had much before. He actually enjoyed the excuse to convey his meaning through his tone of voice and his touches.
"I still have to travel for work now and then," Josh said, a little wariness creeping into his voice. This was what had gotten him in trouble last time. It did frighten him a little, going back into the same potential situation. "Back and forth to Liechtenstein, and sometimes to different parts of the country. But this was meant to be a permanent assignment, more or less. As long as we find it agreeable, Gretta and I were to be stationed here pretty much permanently."
Who wouldn't keep coming back for such a prize? Josh wasn't ready to make promises of undying love and loyalty on such short acquaintance but everything he knew of Gris so far sang to him. He loved his personality, his manner. His hobbies were interesting, his views similar to Josh's own thus far, and Josh couldn't imagine they wouldn't have an enjoyable relationship if that was what they both wanted.
Gris sat back against the bench and admitted to being complicated. Josh smiled at the caress to his hand, and when Gris placed it back on his leg he could feel his companion shaking. He pushed away from the table, leaned closer to Gris, and slid his arm around his shoulders once more. His other hand traced up Gris's chest to rest on his other shoulder, and Josh found himself leaning in as if to kiss him again. It was what he wanted to do, very badly. Was Gris upset? Afraid of something? Worried, as Josh had been previously, that perhaps Josh would not want to stay this course?
"Are you all right?" His words were soft and gentle, full of concern.
He leaned in and pressed his lips to Gris's forehead. "I would like that very much," he murmured softly. "There's no prize worth having if you're not willing to work for it."
He would work to keep Gris. To stick with it, as he put it. Josh didn't feel awkward about making such a promise at all. It felt perfectly natural to him, not only because he liked Gris a great deal but because he enjoyed such work himself.
Before he could say anything further, Jocelyn arrived with dessert. Josh froze momentarily, wondering if the waitress could sense how closely entwined they currently were, and then relaxed as she walked away. His hands caressed Gris's shoulders softly, taking care with the casted wrist not to get it caught on a piece of clothing or tangled in soft blond curls.
"I had forgotten about dessert," Josh admitted, his lips close to Gris's. "That dessert, at least."
He had very little interest in it anymore, really. What he wanted to claim was right in front of him. He let both hands slip down again, trailing gently down Gris's chest, to his lean sides and narrow hips. Resting them there Josh leaned in and took what he wanted, not as aggressively as before but with more restraint as he pressed his lips to Gris's and tasted him once again. Perfect, was the word in his head, as his hands tightened on Gris's hips. This man was perfect. Complex in the best way, kind, gentle, sexy and confident. How was he single?
Breaking away Josh leaned back a little to give Gris some room. "Sorry," he said, a hint of humor in his voice. "I figured it probably wasn't too early to begin this fight."
Having said that, he located his fork and took a little bite of his napoleon, leaving one hand on Gris's leg again, near his hip, hoping it would be claimed eventually.
Gris listened quietly when Josh explained about his position. There was more to say about it but the time and place were not right. Instead, Josh turned back toward Gris when he felt him draw close again. Gris's lips touched his neck and Josh shivered pleasantly. He raised his hand and let it fall upon those soft, abundant curls. Emotions were strong. He really did feel a desire to protect this man, to hold him, to understand him, and to be the one he turned to.
Gris asked if he would be around and Josh nodded, then realized Gris couldn't see it. Interesting, how he had begun to adjust to the darkness. It didn't bother him now, not that it had much before. He actually enjoyed the excuse to convey his meaning through his tone of voice and his touches.
"I still have to travel for work now and then," Josh said, a little wariness creeping into his voice. This was what had gotten him in trouble last time. It did frighten him a little, going back into the same potential situation. "Back and forth to Liechtenstein, and sometimes to different parts of the country. But this was meant to be a permanent assignment, more or less. As long as we find it agreeable, Gretta and I were to be stationed here pretty much permanently."
Who wouldn't keep coming back for such a prize? Josh wasn't ready to make promises of undying love and loyalty on such short acquaintance but everything he knew of Gris so far sang to him. He loved his personality, his manner. His hobbies were interesting, his views similar to Josh's own thus far, and Josh couldn't imagine they wouldn't have an enjoyable relationship if that was what they both wanted.
Gris sat back against the bench and admitted to being complicated. Josh smiled at the caress to his hand, and when Gris placed it back on his leg he could feel his companion shaking. He pushed away from the table, leaned closer to Gris, and slid his arm around his shoulders once more. His other hand traced up Gris's chest to rest on his other shoulder, and Josh found himself leaning in as if to kiss him again. It was what he wanted to do, very badly. Was Gris upset? Afraid of something? Worried, as Josh had been previously, that perhaps Josh would not want to stay this course?
"Are you all right?" His words were soft and gentle, full of concern.
He leaned in and pressed his lips to Gris's forehead. "I would like that very much," he murmured softly. "There's no prize worth having if you're not willing to work for it."
He would work to keep Gris. To stick with it, as he put it. Josh didn't feel awkward about making such a promise at all. It felt perfectly natural to him, not only because he liked Gris a great deal but because he enjoyed such work himself.
Before he could say anything further, Jocelyn arrived with dessert. Josh froze momentarily, wondering if the waitress could sense how closely entwined they currently were, and then relaxed as she walked away. His hands caressed Gris's shoulders softly, taking care with the casted wrist not to get it caught on a piece of clothing or tangled in soft blond curls.
"I had forgotten about dessert," Josh admitted, his lips close to Gris's. "That dessert, at least."
He had very little interest in it anymore, really. What he wanted to claim was right in front of him. He let both hands slip down again, trailing gently down Gris's chest, to his lean sides and narrow hips. Resting them there Josh leaned in and took what he wanted, not as aggressively as before but with more restraint as he pressed his lips to Gris's and tasted him once again. Perfect, was the word in his head, as his hands tightened on Gris's hips. This man was perfect. Complex in the best way, kind, gentle, sexy and confident. How was he single?
Breaking away Josh leaned back a little to give Gris some room. "Sorry," he said, a hint of humor in his voice. "I figured it probably wasn't too early to begin this fight."
Having said that, he located his fork and took a little bite of his napoleon, leaving one hand on Gris's leg again, near his hip, hoping it would be claimed eventually.
Greer Grayson
12 years ago
"I like it when you do that.†Gris confessed softly, feeling Joshua's hand slide into his hair. He didn't like to be petted, unless he was a wolf and then maybe...occasionally...by the right person. Some people thought that was what you did with long hair, you stroked it like you would a cat; it felt weird and it annoyed him. Josh had run his hand gently through his hair once or twice now, barely touching it really; Gris would like to encourage him to do it some more. People gravitated toward his hair as one of the first things they tended to touch; he had both good and bad experiences with that. The bad ones were quickly advised to leave it alone.
He listened to the reply and heard the hesitance in Joshua's voice. Giving his companion a gentle reassuring squeeze, Gris said. "So long as you come back from these trips then that's fine.†They hadn't moved in together yet; he would be okay. Even if they did, at some point, become that serious about each other, he was a pretty independent person. "I would expect that you'd want to visit home from time to time, at the very least.†Gris smiled softly; Josh had mentioned he had family back in his home country.
Joshua wrapped his arm back around his shoulders while his other hand made its way up his chest. He then asked if Gris was okay. "I am fine. I promise.†He was unwilling to confide the reason for his body's current reaction to his emotions, at least not here.
There was a soft kiss placed on his forehead. Josh told him that he would work to keep his attention and Gris chuckled softly at the original notion, while being touched by the words. He leaned into the arms around him, once more laying his head on Josh's shoulder.
Jocelyn arrived and he tilted his head back up but otherwise remained comfortably close to Josh, encircled by his arms. She set the desserts down, explained how to pay their bill when the time came and then left.
Josh's lips were tantalizingly close as he spoke about forgetting dessert. "Well, then I hope you have enough room for more later.â€
He moaned softly against the lingering kiss, savoring it as a little taste of what could come. "...or now.†Gris amended quietly with a soft laugh and a crooked grin.
"Fight?†He leaned forward and found his dessert and then his fork. His left hand sought the one on his leg. Once it was located, he entwined his fingers with Josh's. Despite being less interested in his dessert than the prospect of being dessert, Gris found that this was the best coconut pie he had ever tasted. "Mmm, I have to say this is delicious.†He loved coconut; it reminded him of some island getaway. There always seemed to be a mini vacation packed in whatever coconut was in and the scent was so distinctive, especially in the dark, that he was instantly transported to his mental island paradise. This time it had a hot diplomat on it. How nice!
"Want to try some?â€
He listened to the reply and heard the hesitance in Joshua's voice. Giving his companion a gentle reassuring squeeze, Gris said. "So long as you come back from these trips then that's fine.†They hadn't moved in together yet; he would be okay. Even if they did, at some point, become that serious about each other, he was a pretty independent person. "I would expect that you'd want to visit home from time to time, at the very least.†Gris smiled softly; Josh had mentioned he had family back in his home country.
Joshua wrapped his arm back around his shoulders while his other hand made its way up his chest. He then asked if Gris was okay. "I am fine. I promise.†He was unwilling to confide the reason for his body's current reaction to his emotions, at least not here.
There was a soft kiss placed on his forehead. Josh told him that he would work to keep his attention and Gris chuckled softly at the original notion, while being touched by the words. He leaned into the arms around him, once more laying his head on Josh's shoulder.
Jocelyn arrived and he tilted his head back up but otherwise remained comfortably close to Josh, encircled by his arms. She set the desserts down, explained how to pay their bill when the time came and then left.
Josh's lips were tantalizingly close as he spoke about forgetting dessert. "Well, then I hope you have enough room for more later.â€
He moaned softly against the lingering kiss, savoring it as a little taste of what could come. "...or now.†Gris amended quietly with a soft laugh and a crooked grin.
"Fight?†He leaned forward and found his dessert and then his fork. His left hand sought the one on his leg. Once it was located, he entwined his fingers with Josh's. Despite being less interested in his dessert than the prospect of being dessert, Gris found that this was the best coconut pie he had ever tasted. "Mmm, I have to say this is delicious.†He loved coconut; it reminded him of some island getaway. There always seemed to be a mini vacation packed in whatever coconut was in and the scent was so distinctive, especially in the dark, that he was instantly transported to his mental island paradise. This time it had a hot diplomat on it. How nice!
"Want to try some?â€
Joshua Wesson
12 years ago
Josh filed Gris's statement away in the growing list of facts he knew about this man. He liked when Josh touched his hair. That was good... he'd hate to think he started off doing something his companion hated. He should have asked; not everyone liked to be touched like that.
"I want to keep learning everything you like," he said, warmth in his tone. "And, of course, everything you don't."
He nodded at Gris's understanding of the fact that he had to travel, wondering if Gris might suffer doubts if Josh stayed away too long. It certainly wouldn't be on purpose. Was that the difference between this time and the last, perhaps? His previous partner had not cared to wait for him. Would Gris? Josh felt a squeeze in his heart. They really hardly knew each other but still he feared that eventual discovery. Time to get over it.
"You too, I would imagine," he said. "Have you been back to England at all?"
Surely Gris missed his family as well. They would both have to suffer a little bit of loneliness unless, of course, they eventually reached a point where they simply went together. Joshua could see Gris visiting Liechtenstein with him. His family would be overjoyed to know that Josh had a steady. He had had four sisters urging him to find The Right Man for years, now. Was he sitting next to him, finally? He felt a thrill of anticipation that he might get a chance to find out.
They certainly felt a mutual attraction. There was no doubt, as Gris reassured him he was fine and another pleasant few minutes of flirtation and touching followed. Josh liked the way Gris felt in his arms, enjoyed the very faint scent of 'clean' about him, something soft and herbal and very pleasant. And his kiss... God, yes, he could still do that all night. Gris wasn't shy; his kiss was tantalizing and sweet, a temptation Josh was quickly losing his resolve against. If he had any resolve left. At this point, it seemed a natural thing to want to invite Gris home with him for the night. What was the merit in waiting, if it only served to frustrate them? He didn't want Gris to think he wasn't into him, but he also didn't want Gris to think he only wanted sex. Ugh. Josh hated being caught up in a quandary like this one.
Gris asked about the fight and Josh actually grinned quickly. "The fight in which I take people off of that 'very very short list' of competitors one by one. Kiss by kiss, if I must, until you forget there was ever such a list."
Gris did find his hand, and Josh sighed with satisfaction as they dug into their desserts. He didn't want to free his right hand so he used the left, which was a little less adept but still all right even in its fiberglass cast.
"I'd love to try some," he said, and offered some of his napoleon as well.
As they made their exchange, Josh found himself laughing softly again. "I can't believe this all stems from a forgotten cell phone. Maybe I should offer to take Melanie out to dinner, instead of the other way around. As a thank you. Without her can of pepper spray I might never have fallen off a bridge onto you."
It was a ridiculous situation, yet because of it Josh wanted to linger over dessert, maybe over coffee too, and stay here in the dark with his arms around Gris for the rest of the night. It had to end eventually, of course, and he contented himself with the thought that once it did, he would be able to see Gris's very handsome face again and perhaps catch a glimpse of his smile. That was certainly worth it.
"I want to keep learning everything you like," he said, warmth in his tone. "And, of course, everything you don't."
He nodded at Gris's understanding of the fact that he had to travel, wondering if Gris might suffer doubts if Josh stayed away too long. It certainly wouldn't be on purpose. Was that the difference between this time and the last, perhaps? His previous partner had not cared to wait for him. Would Gris? Josh felt a squeeze in his heart. They really hardly knew each other but still he feared that eventual discovery. Time to get over it.
"You too, I would imagine," he said. "Have you been back to England at all?"
Surely Gris missed his family as well. They would both have to suffer a little bit of loneliness unless, of course, they eventually reached a point where they simply went together. Joshua could see Gris visiting Liechtenstein with him. His family would be overjoyed to know that Josh had a steady. He had had four sisters urging him to find The Right Man for years, now. Was he sitting next to him, finally? He felt a thrill of anticipation that he might get a chance to find out.
They certainly felt a mutual attraction. There was no doubt, as Gris reassured him he was fine and another pleasant few minutes of flirtation and touching followed. Josh liked the way Gris felt in his arms, enjoyed the very faint scent of 'clean' about him, something soft and herbal and very pleasant. And his kiss... God, yes, he could still do that all night. Gris wasn't shy; his kiss was tantalizing and sweet, a temptation Josh was quickly losing his resolve against. If he had any resolve left. At this point, it seemed a natural thing to want to invite Gris home with him for the night. What was the merit in waiting, if it only served to frustrate them? He didn't want Gris to think he wasn't into him, but he also didn't want Gris to think he only wanted sex. Ugh. Josh hated being caught up in a quandary like this one.
Gris asked about the fight and Josh actually grinned quickly. "The fight in which I take people off of that 'very very short list' of competitors one by one. Kiss by kiss, if I must, until you forget there was ever such a list."
Gris did find his hand, and Josh sighed with satisfaction as they dug into their desserts. He didn't want to free his right hand so he used the left, which was a little less adept but still all right even in its fiberglass cast.
"I'd love to try some," he said, and offered some of his napoleon as well.
As they made their exchange, Josh found himself laughing softly again. "I can't believe this all stems from a forgotten cell phone. Maybe I should offer to take Melanie out to dinner, instead of the other way around. As a thank you. Without her can of pepper spray I might never have fallen off a bridge onto you."
It was a ridiculous situation, yet because of it Josh wanted to linger over dessert, maybe over coffee too, and stay here in the dark with his arms around Gris for the rest of the night. It had to end eventually, of course, and he contented himself with the thought that once it did, he would be able to see Gris's very handsome face again and perhaps catch a glimpse of his smile. That was certainly worth it.
Greer Grayson
12 years ago
Joshua said that he wanted to keep learning about Gris's likes and dislikes. That was a good thing to study, if he did think so himself.
It was too soon to explain about his complicated home life, or lack of a home life. Unloading his personal problems on people was something he never did and placing them on Josh, who interested him greatly, seemed like an especially bad idea. Maybe, someday. Gris was still thrilled by the idea that there might be a some day. A little scared but mostly thrilled.
"I do go back from time to time.†He shrugged in the darkness. "I have been to boarding schools most of my life.†Perhaps it would explain a little about why he had no real need to go home often. Parents who would put their children into boarding school at an early age always seemed to him to be parents who didn't care to see their children.
Josh explained what fight he meant and Gris laughed at the explanation. Mentally he considered Joshua's chances in an actual fight and it didn't look good, not even against Kiyo who would probably take him down but then apologize for it afterward and offer to help the poor man up. Tavi looked small but she was older and wiser than she appeared, plus Gris figured there were good odds that she had been in some rough places. Then there was Evan, who looked intimidating and the truth was worse. To be fair to Josh, the competition was anything but for the human; two werewolves and a vampire were just not good odds. "You make me want to find more people to put on the list. Can I add a horde of fake names...Bob, Jim, Fred, Charles...Did I say Bob? Ah, okay this is another Bob.â€
Leaning over to try some of Josh's dessert, he carefully pushed his fork through the layers of the Napoleon. He was happily savoring the puffy pastry and smooth creamy filling when Joshua mentioned taking Melanie out to dinner in order to thank her for introducing them. His hand automatically squeezed tighter the one that he held. Gris paused, finished his bite and then spoke. "That is true.†He managed to answer mildly enough. "However, do you really want to reward such behavior? She might go around macing random strangers in the hopes of getting free dinners.â€
He went back to his own dessert. Scooping up a small piece of pie, Gris stopped to add. "If it works out between us then we can send her a nice wine and cheese basket for the holidays to express our thanks.â€
It was too soon to explain about his complicated home life, or lack of a home life. Unloading his personal problems on people was something he never did and placing them on Josh, who interested him greatly, seemed like an especially bad idea. Maybe, someday. Gris was still thrilled by the idea that there might be a some day. A little scared but mostly thrilled.
"I do go back from time to time.†He shrugged in the darkness. "I have been to boarding schools most of my life.†Perhaps it would explain a little about why he had no real need to go home often. Parents who would put their children into boarding school at an early age always seemed to him to be parents who didn't care to see their children.
Josh explained what fight he meant and Gris laughed at the explanation. Mentally he considered Joshua's chances in an actual fight and it didn't look good, not even against Kiyo who would probably take him down but then apologize for it afterward and offer to help the poor man up. Tavi looked small but she was older and wiser than she appeared, plus Gris figured there were good odds that she had been in some rough places. Then there was Evan, who looked intimidating and the truth was worse. To be fair to Josh, the competition was anything but for the human; two werewolves and a vampire were just not good odds. "You make me want to find more people to put on the list. Can I add a horde of fake names...Bob, Jim, Fred, Charles...Did I say Bob? Ah, okay this is another Bob.â€
Leaning over to try some of Josh's dessert, he carefully pushed his fork through the layers of the Napoleon. He was happily savoring the puffy pastry and smooth creamy filling when Joshua mentioned taking Melanie out to dinner in order to thank her for introducing them. His hand automatically squeezed tighter the one that he held. Gris paused, finished his bite and then spoke. "That is true.†He managed to answer mildly enough. "However, do you really want to reward such behavior? She might go around macing random strangers in the hopes of getting free dinners.â€
He went back to his own dessert. Scooping up a small piece of pie, Gris stopped to add. "If it works out between us then we can send her a nice wine and cheese basket for the holidays to express our thanks.â€
Joshua Wesson
12 years ago
Josh nodded and gave a small hum of understanding when Gris claimed to have been brought up in boarding schools. Joshua never understood that concept. He couldn't conceive of ever being brought up anywhere but by his own family, even broken as they were, that was where they had all belonged - together. After his father's death they had only gotten closer, in their struggle not to lose their mother as well. Josh felt their absence every day. He had grown used to it, yes, but he still felt it.
He gave a low growl when Gris extended the list of people for Josh to compete with, but it ended in a rumbling laugh. Really, all it said (he hoped) was that Gris was enjoying his kisses and looking for reasons to keep them coming. Josh would happily comply, if that was what Gris wanted. He leaned close, pushed Gris's curls away from his neck with his nose so he wouldn't have to disengage his hand, and dropped a soft, warm kiss to the skin of Gris's neck, sucking lightly.
"I imagine you probably have a very good memory, for all those names," he said. "I can see I've got my work cut out for me. I may as well start now if I'm going to convince you to forget them all."
While he didn't believe Gris had a list of hundreds of lovers (did he? Then again, maybe he did), Josh suspected Gris had never lacked for suitors. Men and women alike would be attracted to his charm, his friendly personality, his good looks. Dating him might actually be a daunting prospect but Josh had confidence in himself. He was no slouch in the looks department, and he knew who he was and what he wanted. Those qualities often held appeal.
He sampled a small piece of the coconut pie, not wanting to take a large bite out of something Gris was clearly enjoying. It was smooth and creamy and, as Gris had proclaimed it, delicious. The napoleon, too, was well-made. The desserts were obviously not frozen in boxes but either made fresh or purchased locally from someplace that made them. The dinner had been excellent, and it surprised Josh that not only did he not miss his sense of sight but he was wishing they could stay here longer in the dark.
Gris tightened his grip on Josh's hand at the mention of Melanie. Josh squeezed back, feeling a bubble of amusement inside. Could it be that he was not the only one inclined to be somewhat possessive? The idea pleased him. He wasn't the co-dependent sort but he did like the idea of belonging to someone once again. Someone who, perhaps, had very little interest in tossing him aside.
"You may be right," he acquiesced. "Maybe that would only encourage her. But, a wine and cheese basket? Maybe a pepper basket would be more appropriate."
It was said without laughter, although his humor colored his tone of voice. In spite of having done so several times tonight, Josh wasn't usually given to outrageous displays of hilarity in public. His humor tended to be quiet, more ironic, like his current suggestion.
As hey finished their desserts he found himself stroking the palm of Gris's hand with his fingertips. Placing his fork down on his empty dessert plate he leaned back with a satisfied sigh.
"So... shall we linger over coffee?" With their hands still entwined, he dropped his to Gris's leg. "Or... if you like, there's coffee back at the apartment."
He hadn't meant to put forth the invitation when the evening had begun. He could only guess what would happen if they found themselves in that situation. But despite his resolve, he found that he could come up with fewer and fewer reasons why such a thing should not happen. What Josh did know for sure was that he felt good here, with Gris. Even if they just chatted quietly over coffee, he would like to continue having his company.
He gave a low growl when Gris extended the list of people for Josh to compete with, but it ended in a rumbling laugh. Really, all it said (he hoped) was that Gris was enjoying his kisses and looking for reasons to keep them coming. Josh would happily comply, if that was what Gris wanted. He leaned close, pushed Gris's curls away from his neck with his nose so he wouldn't have to disengage his hand, and dropped a soft, warm kiss to the skin of Gris's neck, sucking lightly.
"I imagine you probably have a very good memory, for all those names," he said. "I can see I've got my work cut out for me. I may as well start now if I'm going to convince you to forget them all."
While he didn't believe Gris had a list of hundreds of lovers (did he? Then again, maybe he did), Josh suspected Gris had never lacked for suitors. Men and women alike would be attracted to his charm, his friendly personality, his good looks. Dating him might actually be a daunting prospect but Josh had confidence in himself. He was no slouch in the looks department, and he knew who he was and what he wanted. Those qualities often held appeal.
He sampled a small piece of the coconut pie, not wanting to take a large bite out of something Gris was clearly enjoying. It was smooth and creamy and, as Gris had proclaimed it, delicious. The napoleon, too, was well-made. The desserts were obviously not frozen in boxes but either made fresh or purchased locally from someplace that made them. The dinner had been excellent, and it surprised Josh that not only did he not miss his sense of sight but he was wishing they could stay here longer in the dark.
Gris tightened his grip on Josh's hand at the mention of Melanie. Josh squeezed back, feeling a bubble of amusement inside. Could it be that he was not the only one inclined to be somewhat possessive? The idea pleased him. He wasn't the co-dependent sort but he did like the idea of belonging to someone once again. Someone who, perhaps, had very little interest in tossing him aside.
"You may be right," he acquiesced. "Maybe that would only encourage her. But, a wine and cheese basket? Maybe a pepper basket would be more appropriate."
It was said without laughter, although his humor colored his tone of voice. In spite of having done so several times tonight, Josh wasn't usually given to outrageous displays of hilarity in public. His humor tended to be quiet, more ironic, like his current suggestion.
As hey finished their desserts he found himself stroking the palm of Gris's hand with his fingertips. Placing his fork down on his empty dessert plate he leaned back with a satisfied sigh.
"So... shall we linger over coffee?" With their hands still entwined, he dropped his to Gris's leg. "Or... if you like, there's coffee back at the apartment."
He hadn't meant to put forth the invitation when the evening had begun. He could only guess what would happen if they found themselves in that situation. But despite his resolve, he found that he could come up with fewer and fewer reasons why such a thing should not happen. What Josh did know for sure was that he felt good here, with Gris. Even if they just chatted quietly over coffee, he would like to continue having his company.
Greer Grayson
12 years ago
The kiss on his neck felt so good. Gris closed his eyes, heedless of the dark. A little breathless sigh managed to escape. Joshua was saying something about memory and names. It took him a moment to piece together exactly what. Work...start now... forget them all... "Yes.†He answered before he was entirely sure what he was agreeing with. "Let me encourage you to continue.†Gris said after regaining a little more of his senses. "You are doing an excellent job.â€
Gris laughed softly at the alteration that Josh put forth in their proposed future gift basket. "Very appropriate. I like the way you think.†He gave Joshua's hand another gentle squeeze. "I am sure there has to be a salsa lover's basket out there somewhere.â€
When the desserts were done, Josh suggested coffee and offered several possible locations. Gris considered briefly between the choices of staying here or returning to the apartment. He had to take Josh home at some point anyway. There was a certain kind of privacy here but there were still people around to listen which meant their conversation could not veer very far into the inappropriate. Which might never happen even in private but he liked having options. At the flat there was Gretta and he might have to share Josh's company with his partner. However, he suspected not; her pointed question before they left for dinner and then her change of mind suggested that she was happy to see her partner out on a date. Gris suspected they would have the living room to themselves. He didn't assume that meant an invitation to Josh's bedroom but at least they could continue their conversation in almost complete privacy, and perhaps be more comfortable while doing it.
"Let's continue this somewhere that won't have someone impatient for our eventual departure.†Gris smiled. Sometimes waiters didn't mind if you stayed to chat in their section; it took up a space, made the place look a little busier or, if it was already busy, gave them one less table to hustle for. Others wanted you gone so that they could have another chance at another tip or perhaps they were leaving and they wanted you out of their section before they handed it over to someone else.
Lest Josh change his mind about that idea, Gris pressed the button and called for Jocelyn to take them back to the front where they could pay their bill.
Gris laughed softly at the alteration that Josh put forth in their proposed future gift basket. "Very appropriate. I like the way you think.†He gave Joshua's hand another gentle squeeze. "I am sure there has to be a salsa lover's basket out there somewhere.â€
When the desserts were done, Josh suggested coffee and offered several possible locations. Gris considered briefly between the choices of staying here or returning to the apartment. He had to take Josh home at some point anyway. There was a certain kind of privacy here but there were still people around to listen which meant their conversation could not veer very far into the inappropriate. Which might never happen even in private but he liked having options. At the flat there was Gretta and he might have to share Josh's company with his partner. However, he suspected not; her pointed question before they left for dinner and then her change of mind suggested that she was happy to see her partner out on a date. Gris suspected they would have the living room to themselves. He didn't assume that meant an invitation to Josh's bedroom but at least they could continue their conversation in almost complete privacy, and perhaps be more comfortable while doing it.
"Let's continue this somewhere that won't have someone impatient for our eventual departure.†Gris smiled. Sometimes waiters didn't mind if you stayed to chat in their section; it took up a space, made the place look a little busier or, if it was already busy, gave them one less table to hustle for. Others wanted you gone so that they could have another chance at another tip or perhaps they were leaving and they wanted you out of their section before they handed it over to someone else.
Lest Josh change his mind about that idea, Gris pressed the button and called for Jocelyn to take them back to the front where they could pay their bill.
Joshua Wesson
12 years ago
Gris's approval only made Josh's heart pound harder. He was thankful that dinner was at a close, because in a few minutes he might have found himself begging to finish what they'd almost begun earlier.
As they walked back into the light, through one curtain where Jocelyn asked them to wait while their eyes adjusted, to the next, Josh felt only excitement and anticipation. He should feel more. He should feel reluctance, he thought, or resolution. Something, that would steel his resolve and compel him to offer a chaste good night kiss instead of something else. But it never happened. They reached the front counter and Josh paid for dinner, as he'd offered to take Gris out in the first place.
Out in public, in full view, Josh was less demonstrative of his affections. He had a position to uphold, as did Gris, and until they were secure with things or even had a clue where they were going it seemed prudent to respect their public image. Once inside Gris's car again, though, Josh reached over and rested his hand on Gris's leg. He didn't want him to think he was only leading him on in the restaurant, playing a game in the dark. Hardly. As they headed back to Josh's apartment all he could think was how much he wished he was actually bringing Gris someplace that was representative of himself as a person.
All things in time, though. Josh thought that if they continued to see each other, anything might be possible.
((ooc: Josh and Gris out))
As they walked back into the light, through one curtain where Jocelyn asked them to wait while their eyes adjusted, to the next, Josh felt only excitement and anticipation. He should feel more. He should feel reluctance, he thought, or resolution. Something, that would steel his resolve and compel him to offer a chaste good night kiss instead of something else. But it never happened. They reached the front counter and Josh paid for dinner, as he'd offered to take Gris out in the first place.
Out in public, in full view, Josh was less demonstrative of his affections. He had a position to uphold, as did Gris, and until they were secure with things or even had a clue where they were going it seemed prudent to respect their public image. Once inside Gris's car again, though, Josh reached over and rested his hand on Gris's leg. He didn't want him to think he was only leading him on in the restaurant, playing a game in the dark. Hardly. As they headed back to Josh's apartment all he could think was how much he wished he was actually bringing Gris someplace that was representative of himself as a person.
All things in time, though. Josh thought that if they continued to see each other, anything might be possible.
((ooc: Josh and Gris out))